Fantasy Light in the Darkness (Team 20)

[Trektek]

The Imperial Palace
The Kelaran Imperium was an institution that had been around since its founding after the events of the Great Demon War thousands of years before. It stretched for thousands of miles from the heavy and hot sands of the Cinbar Desert in the South west, to it's frozen tundras in the North, to it's tropical islands to the south. But now, the times of long rule are being to show the cracks that have been forming for a long time. Having to govern such large stretches of land has allowed corruption to seep into those cracks and create divides. Bandits, warlords and monsters have taken root to carve out sections of the Empire as parts of their own. And even their hostile neighbor, The Red Goblin Empire, has begun to prepare, using the excuse of fighting the resurgence of The League of Pirates and kingdoms to the far East. But anyone with any knowledge of the Empire knows that it is a flimsy pretense and that they are truly preparing to strike at The Kelaran Imperium.

Emperor Titus Secundus Corvus was beginning to feel every bit of the sixty years of his life. It was not that he was in poor physical shape. In fact, far from it. He was still in peak physical condition and a mighty warrior who had lead the battles on the front line against the last incursion by the Empire some 40 years ago. With the full might of the Imperium behind him, he had made sure that the Empire had not made it past the Border castles. But he knew that the Empire was not resting on it's laurels and there has been word of the new machines that are being created for war and tested out on lesser countries.

He was feeling the weight from the darkness that had been seeping into his lands. Ones that snuck up on him while he governed the capital, making decisions for the whole Imperium but leaving day to day dealings with elected officials and other nobles. That in some cases had been a mistake as evidenced by the rise in banditry and those that call themselves warlords.

The time had come to do something. He would gather up those that wished to help the Empire, those that had the might to succeed and those that merely wanted money and power. He would take all kinds as long as the Imperium could be saved and brought back to full strength before the inevitable war broke out. The Emperor issued a proclamation on that day asking for the aid of heroes in the Imperium's time of need in exchange for riches beyond compare along with titles and land including the power that comes with it.

Those that wished to come, would arrive soon enough in front of the Imperial Palace for processing and instruction where soldiers would help direct the crowds and prevent fights from breaking out.

The Market Place
waifu , Huntertabbysandshark3 , LadyOfStars , @ Dragonlord318

The marketplace was all a hustle and bustle from the middle of the day with people needing to always buy things from the heart of the Empire. Even people that lived within the large city, they always needed something. Especially since the city was one that rarely fully slept and there was always something to do. Here in the marketplace near the front gates of the city, there was much traffic coming and going. No one questioned any of the various monstrous races that came and went. All were welcome within the Imperium. Even if not everyone was always welcoming. It was long ago decreed that all could find a place within the Imperium, a shelter from the harsher lands and people that existed elsewhere within the world.

Horses and carts were being pulled on by with various types of goods and even goblins and bugbears seemed to find places to exist side by side with humans and elves.

Conversations could be overheard throughout the hustle and bustle as town criers spouted the news that many people were interested in. The Emperor was offering large amounts of riches and land to those that could rid the Imperium of the growing number of bandits, warlords and great powerful beasts that lurk around. It seemed many people were interested and some already began to funnel towards the Imperial Palace to find out more.

The Cainar Prince was of a smaller breed of Cainar than were around the Capital and the surrounding provinces. He would see the large dog headed Cainar wearing plate mail and wielding large and heavy weapons patrolling the streets. The main army had a large population of those people. They were loyal as ever to the Imperium and with a strength to back up that long standing loyalty.

Sebastian eventually ended up in the Grand City of Teleran after hitching a ride with a merchant. The desert was a far place from here, and if he was going to find a suitable queen so that he could take the throne of his people, it would be very difficult not to find someone here.

Looking around, the Grand City of Teleran was a melting pot of people. There were humans, elves, halflings, tieflings, Cainar and even races from far off places of the Imperium.

Goredren wanders into town, his dark color suit of armor as well as being a walking armory caused him to be getting looks from the people walking around and the guards as well. There were people whispering about the intentions. Perhaps he was here to answer the call. Ah yes, that must be it. The whispers continued.

Olivier De LaSarre entered with a caravan into the city, the news had already reached her about the need for heroes of all shapes and sizes, summoned to the Palace. Her carriage pulled into the stables as a footman let her out and bowed before her. "My lady. We have arrived at the Capital."

Outside, there was a town crier that had a small crowd around them. He was speaking very loudly in order to make sure that his message was coming across to all.

"Here ye, here ye. The Emperor has proclaimed that heroes are needed for the Imperium. All that answer the call and perform this needed service will receive riches beyond compare, titles, land, and pardons for any criminals that wish to undertake this task. Just report to the Imperial Palace where you will be processed for missions that best suit your individual skills." The town crier would go on to repeat this message as people started to talk among themselves.

"Do you think it's real?" "It's gotta be real. I saw a large group of people over by the palace. And there are guards everywhere." "Well then. Are you thinking what I'm thinking of?" "Heck yeah, let's go make some easy coin."

Noble Quarter (A Noble's Home)
cinnabuns

The nobility were as always, a cut above the rest of the crowd. The Noble Quarter was the tallest and grandest section of the Grand City of Teleran, outside of the Imperial Palace. The people that wandered by wore only the most expensive and fanciest clothing, with the latest fashions taking precedence ahead of comfort. With the Nobility, style was everything, far more important than substance.

Heavily armored guards wandered the Noble Quarter to keep the place safe from thieves and other such lowlifes that might try to take advantage of the situation. If you could afford to live there, it was a glorious place, with only the tastiest foods and finest plays put on for their benefits.

Filmena was doing what she loved to do, working on clothing. She was doing some threadwork for a noble of some renown. It was an average job, and it wasn't for anything too spectacular. That was when she received a whispered message to head to a private room as soon as she was able to.

As soon as she did so, a hooded figure appeared, she recognized them as one of her godfather's agents within the city. He bowed before her as he began to speak. "Your presence is requested at the Imperial Palace. It is believed that your services and skills will be necessary to complete the mission ahead and save the Imperium."

Before she could respond or ask any questions, the cloaked figure had disappeared just as quickly as they had arrived.

The Tower of Sorcery
Athanas

The Tower of Sorcery belonged to a lineage that brought and cultured magic to a great degree. Within it's borders, the study of magic was held at the highest regard above all. The lineage greatly extended their live span in order to continue this grand study.

Seraphanis Pellos Melphukis Von Kraufleir IV was in his library, continuing his studies to learn more magic and gain greater skill when there was a knock at the door. After being let in, a servant bowed and then brought a letter to Seraphanis that was stamped with wax that was the Imperial Seal. Once opened it stated:

Dear Captain Seraphanis,
The Imperium is in dire straits. There are bandits within our borders, monsters killing citizens and barbarians at the gates of our grand civilization. Thousands of years of history and the legacy of our great people are in jeopardy. Your services are requested at the Palace, to take command of a team that will be complimenting your magical strengths to aid the Imperium and myself in the Kelarin Imperium's hour of need.
With Regards,
Emperor Titus Secundus Corvus​

 

[cinnabuns]

F I L O

It was quite an interesting thing, working on someone's dress.

Filomena never cared whether it was a person of riches asking her for a new fit for their wardrobe, or if it was someone who just needed a new outfit because the one they tended to wear had too many holes and dirt stains in it. What mattered to her was the look on the face of a happy client. The way someone's eyes watered when she gifted them a beautiful outfit even when they couldn't afford to pay her, or the way someone jumped in glee that the clothes they'd dreamed of for months were in front of them, practically moments after they had discussed the designs with her....

Filo loved it all. Loved being able to help in this way, as well as other ways.

As she finished looking over her threadwork, her left ear rang for a moment, and she smiled as she waited for a message from her godfather. Hopefully it was something good this time around, because although she loved tailoring, she had an itch to get back out into the world and do some actual good.

Filomena stood up, heading into the side room like the message had requested her to. She was pleased to see the hooded figure, and she bowed to him after he bowed first.

"Your presence is requested at the Imperial Palace. It is believed that your services and skills will be necessary to complete the mission ahead and save the Imperium."

Before she could open her mouth, the figure had already vanished, and Filo grumbled at bit at the quick exit.

"Good to see you too." She rolled her eyes. Her godfather's agents were so dedicated. It wasn't a bad thing, but damn, in her two hundred and fifty years of life, they never seemed to change. Sometimes she could get more out of them than a message, especially when she was at her godfather's, but when she was out in the world, this was how they usually acted. Eh, at least she got the information she needed.

Filomena went back into the main room, where the noble was squealing over her new dresses, and nodded when the noble pressed a large purse full of coins into her hand and gave her a kiss on the cheek for her hard work. The coin purse was...abnormally heavy, did she give her a fucking diamond or something too? Good fucking lord, rich people were something else.

Filo put the coin purse into her bag, relieved at not having to feel the weight, and took her departure from the noble's home, making her way into the busy marketplace that was on the way to the palace.

Filomena moved quickly, knowing that her godfather didn't want to to delay--wait.

Wait.

That...smelled really fucking delicious, her godfather's wishes would have to wait until after she ate something for the first time this afternoon.

Filo grabbed some meat on a stick with a satisfied hum, paying the woman behind the cart extra for such an amazing seasoning, and the woman, surprised at the payment, gave her another. Filomena was ravenous, so she was only happy to accept it, eating the first as quickly as she could before placing another gold coin down on the woman's cart for her generosity. Before the woman could attempt to give her yet another, Filo was lost in the crowd, enjoying her second helping.

"Here ye, here ye. The Emperor has proclaimed that heroes are needed for the Imperium. All that answer the call and perform this needed service will receive riches beyond compare, titles, land, and pardons for any criminals that wish to undertake this task. Just report to the Imperial Palace where you will be processed for missions that best suit your individual skills."

She listened to the town crier as she continued on her way to the palace. She wondered what Inziim saw, exactly, in this poor Imperium. He had faith they needed to survive, so regardless of what she was thinking currently, Filomena would do whatever she could to ensure that they would be alright, but...she had seen the Imperium in better straits, decades upon decades ago. Her godfather always had a soft spot for the weaker ones, she thought with amusement, considering herself in that group.

Soon enough, Filomena was at the palace gates. She walked through briskly, only stopping when she was met by a guard.

"Oh, yes. You want me to 'sign in'?" She finally spoke, after a slightly awkward silence.

[ Trektek ]​

 

[LadyOfStars]

Olivier

Location: Market

Leaving the Keep wasn’t something that she normally did, unless there was a foe her men could vanquish on their own. But traveling to the capital and visiting its market was definitely unheard of in her years as Warlord of Hera Keep. What drew Olivier from her residence wasn’t just the allure of finery at the capital, but the rumors of the imperial throne targeting warlords. While she was here she intended to meet with merchants to sign several new trade deals, but she also wanted to learn more about this quest the Emperor had given half the kingdom.

Emerging from her carriage, Olivier’s brilliant blue gaze swept over the crowds and buildings of the capital. She stepped down into the streets and the first voice she heard was that of the crier’s as he announced the king’s grand quest. “Surely The Emperor jests.” The blond Warlord muttered to herself in disbelief.

With a desire to know more the tall half-elf began making her way toward the crier, her crown of sunlight shining atop her head. The crowds in the street parted, offering Olivier plenty of walking space as she held tightly to her sword. “You there! Explain to me the purpose of this...quest. Why does the Emperor involve the common citizen in such a dangerous task and how did he choose his targets?” Olivier was known for her temper, but with no real enemies before her she had to restrain herself as best she could.

Trektek

 

[Huntertabbysandshark3]

Goredren
interaction: LadyOfStars Trektek​

goredren was likely one of the odder sights currently in the capital the full black plate armour and the fact he was armed to the teeth turned a lot of heads, goredren didn’t mind he loved the attention although he wasn’t sure why people were whispering. What it about him? Probably not? Goredren darted agilely from market stall to market stall Unlike one how would normally be on plate armour only adding to the strangeness asking questions and poking at the different things on offer in the market his mind bouncing excitedly form one thing to the next before the voice in his head urged him to stop his silliness, the voice was always so serious gored didn’t know why but he would usually do what the voice said eventually because the voice was his friend right? The voice wanted to come here anyway because the voice was looking for something but wouldn't tell goredren. Once again goredren’s attention turned to the crier's message it sounded like fun being a hero even the voice agreed it was a good idea because it liked the things they would get for it, was a win-win no? Now, where was the palace? He should go ask the crier yes. Approaching the person it wasn’t too difficult for him since people where very nice and kept out of the way for him. However, there was also a half-elf with a weird floaty hat thing she seemed very aggressive towards the crier even drawing a sword at them, gored however decided it would be a good idea to get between the both of them much to the voices objections. “Please be being less angry miss point ear lady yes?”

 

[Dragonlord318]

David was coming back from Hera Keep, having been sent a job summons some weeks back. He had been assigned to protect the caravan of the Lord of the Keep. He thought the title odd, as the Lord was actually a lady, but he kept his thoughts to himself. As the caravan entered the huge city of Telaran, he posted himself outside the head carriage carrying the prized package. Lord Hera, the most important piece in this long line of coaches, carts, animals and people. He kept his senses up, feeling the air around them for any threats that they may encounter.

As Lord Hera made to step our of her carriage, he stepped back to allow the servant to open the door for her, then stayed by her side as she made her way to the marketplace center, where she seemed to glow with anger. Her face turned red, and he scanned the area for any potential reasons for the rise in frustration. She made it very clear when she voiced her concerns to the town crier. David sighed. The report in his job offer had said she could be set off by men very easily. Seeing that this crier was a man, it made sense. However, David agreed with her. Having inexperienced civilians fight a war for the kingdom without any training, and only the promise of land, fortune and freedom to drive them? David scoffed internally as he continued his scan of the marketplace.

The only people that fought for riches, land and freedom were criminals, rich snobs who hired others to do their dirty work and people desperate for a second chance. David was none of those, thank his God, and he didn't plan on being one. This job with Hera had paid very well. So well, in fact, that he wouldn't need nother one for a couple months before dipping into his vast savings. David saw a tall man in ancient looking armor approaching Hera and stepping in between the HIgh Elf and the Human, pleading with her to be less angry. David raised an eyebrow, but raised an Air Wall around the Elf's body, just in case he/she/it tried anything.

Trektek , Huntertabbysandshark3 , LadyOfStars

 

[waifu]

SEBASTIAN
"This one - how much is this?" Sebastian asked holding up a vermilion scarf.

"Ehh, that one will be 15 silver coins! But because you seem like a good fellow, only for you, I will go down to 10 - no less than that! A limited-time-special-deluxe-offer just for you. Take it or leave it," the shopkeeper haggled without taking a moment to breathe. The marketplace was bustling with people so both the seller and buyer had to talk loud to be audible.

Sebastian raised an eyebrow at the shopkeeper's response, he was taken back to say the least. Sebastian was absolutely impressed, he was in the presence of this stranger for such little time and was still accurately recognized as a "good fellow". This man had a good eye. He certainly knew what he was talking about. An honest man, one worth doing business with. Sebastian nodded his head thoughtfully. There was just one problem: "hm, I see. I'm afraid I don't carry Mainland currency."

The shopkeeper stared at him in bewilderment. Another dud? Why did strange people like him come here to waste his time? Didn't they have something better to do with their lives? "M-mainland? Anyway, what kind of currency do you carry?" The shopkeeper lost all interest in his current customer and started putting away his merchandise.

Sebastian pulled out a solid gold brick from a pocket and flung it on top of the shopkeeper's stall. "Gold."

The shopkeeper's stopped dead in his tracks at the sight of of the gold bar. He picked it up to check its authenticity. It was heavy, this was definitely the real deal. The shopkeeper's demeanor totally changed. "... Y-you wouldn't happen to have change on you, would you?" The shopkeeper asked Sebastian with a nervous laugh.



Sebastian made his way to The Imperial Palace's gates. The Emperor promised riches beyond compare, titles, land, and pardons, but maybe they might also fulfill his demands and grant him a wife. Sebastian knew he had to avail this opportunity. It was a struggle for him to walk because he was literally covered in scarves. There were about three scarves around his neck, two around his waits, three on each arm and leg, while the rest were stuffed in his pockets and hood. Sebastian ended up buying a gold bar's worth of scarves because he didn't have change on him.

There appeared to be a crowd waiting to get in the palace but Sebastian paid them no heed. "Tell your master I have arrived," he ordered the guards, pointing at the them and dropping scarves in the process.

cinnabuns

 

[Mykinkaiser]

RAINER FULKE
_______________________________________________​

Rainer had been on the road for several weeks now. Of course, this was by no means anything new for him, but even so it was nice to have finally reached his destination.

The mercenary had been making his way to the Imperial capital after hearing rumblings that the Emperor was preparing to issue a proclamation that could prove to be quite lucrative for anyone willing to answer the call. While the money would definitely be useful, Rainer's real reason for making the trip was rooted more in the hope that it would prove an interesting way to fill his days.

As such, he made directly to the marketplace, not bothering to rent a room at an inn, not that he often did anyways. The market was, understandably, packed when he reached it. However, this didn't prove to be much of a hindrance for Rainer as people instinctively made way for him upon seeing his unnerving paleness and unnaturally smoldering orange eyes. This didn't bother him anymore, as he'd long since become used to the phenomenon. If anything, Rainer actually liked his appearance at this point. It served to keep people away both physically and emotionally, which served him just fine.

On his way to the center of the market, Rainer passed by a Cainer man at one of the stalls paying for scarves with a gold brick of all things. Curling his lip in distaste at the ostentatious display of wealth, the mercenary quickened his pace so as to make sure to avoid any interaction with the now scarf-laden man. As he walked away, he tried to quell the ominous feeling that he'd see the man again in the future, hoping it was just a flight of fancy.

Upon actually reaching the market square where the crier was, Rainer's thoughts left the wealthy Cainer from before as he stopped to listen to the proclamation telling him to go to the palace itself for further information. Just as he was about to leave, he saw a tall woman with what appeared to be a crown of fire floating above her head, flanked by a guard, approach the crier. With ill-concealed anger, she demanded that the frightened man tell her what the emperor was planning with the proclamation. Not wanting to spend any time dealing with her either, Rainer turned to make his way to the palace, noticing a heavily armored man attempting to mediate the confrontation out of the corner of his eye as he did so.

Reaching the palace gates, Rainer joined the crowd waiting to get in just as a well-dressed woman skipped the line , much to his annoyance. That annoyance only grew further as the scarf-swaddled Cainer man showed up and loudly announced his arrival, only reinforcing Rainer's negative impression of him as he did so. By the time he made it to the front of the line to be processed, he was already regretting his decision to answer the proclamation.

Still, he was already here so he might as well give it a go, especially he could always leave if it came down to it. He didn't give a shit what happened to the Imperium either way.

Location: Marketplace
Mentions: cinnabuns waifu Huntertabbysandshark3 LadyOfStars Dragonlord318

 

[Athanas]

Serapahanis was somewhat anxious, a worrying trait, if one stopped to consider the man's capacity for rational thought even under extreme pressure. While he had been preparing for the better part of ninety years for this glorious task, now that the time was here he felt a knot in his stomach. He wouldn't even have his own retinue! His father insisted they escort him to the imperial palace, and then be presented as a present to the emperor, as a gesture of power from the family.

That was a powerful political move on his father's part, to be sure. Reaffirming their loyalty and indirectly implying that only his own family truly cared for his realm. A power play of great cunning.
Of course, however, his father did not seem to grasp that his son might need these troops in order to complete the tasks set for him by the emperor. So Seraphanis would have to make do with leading whatever half-starved peasant adventurer would have come here in search of vainglory or gold. He could only hope his leadership skills and powerful spells could pull the slack.

His thoughts were interrupted as his lieutenant informed him that they had arrived. Seraphanis jumped off the carriage-it was time to make a notable entrance.

"Out of the way! Out of the Way! Clear a path for the Viscount!"
From behind the assembled crowd, about two hundred elite soldiers with greatswords had began making a path to the entrance, shoving the bystanders out of the way. Some received merely a light nudge or a warning. Those that seemed less than happy with the sudden appearance or bossy attitude got a much harder knock with the blunt side of the weapons, some being knocked down. The protests were quickly drowned out, however, as the crowd noticed the figure that followed this retinue. It seemed to be a man in a golden mask, brighter and more polished than that of the retainers. However, what was more impressive was the chariot he was writing in: It seemed to be made of pure light, dragged by 4 winged horses which were also out of light. It approached the gates, bypassing everyone else in the path that had been cleared by the troops.

"Guard! I have come directly from the tower of Sorcery at his Imperial majesty's own behest. With me I have brought an elite retinue of warriors, skilled in both blade and fundamental magic. They are my gift to the emperor, for in times of need, good men are worth more than riches or titles. Take me to my men at once, so that we may begin. There is no time to waste!"

Spoiler: Retainer

cinnabuns Mykinkaiser Trektek LadyOfStars waifu Dragonlord318

 

[Trektek]

The Market Place
Huntertabbysandshark3 , LadyOfStars , @Letsneverdothisagain2019

The town crier looked intimidated as soon as the tall elf woman walked up to him and started asking him questions very loudly while gripping onto her blade. She was very intense to say the very least. He didn't really seem to get any less tense when the fully armored figure stepped in between them. Who ever that was, still looked very intimidating and he wouldn't want to get in the middle of any possible brewing fight that might erupt. Fially he gathered up the courage in order to respond to the noble woman and so he did so.

"The Emperor is looking for any help in order to assist the impending issues that threaten the Empire. The majority of the Imperial Army is otherwise occupied keeping the Capital safe, keeping order in the border towns and protecting the borders during this troubling time."

The Palace Gates
cinnabuns , Mykinkaiser , waifu , Athanas

The guard responded to Filo while holding out the parchment with enchanted quill. "Yes, please fill out your name and appropriate skills at hand so that you can be properly grouped with individuals that will best compliment your abilities in battle."

As Sebastian walked up holding the huge pile of scarves on himself, the nearest guard actually face palmed. He couldn't believe that someone was bringing a huge pile of scarves to battle. Where did this Cainar think he was going? Certainly not to a spring resort? The guard merely stared as Sebastian dropped the huge pile on the ground. A few nearby people started grabbing scarves and stuffing them into their clothes before making it past the guards to the foyer of the Palace.
"You'll need to fill out some paperwork first, sir. I'll need your name and any skills that you possess so that you can be best placed in a group."

Rainer made it to the front of his particular line and the guard in front looked as though he was having a particularly rough day in processing all of these people that were heeding the call of the Emperor for Glory, Fame, and Power . He turned to the man that popped up before him. At least this was someone that looked like they could fight. Half of the people that he was processing had the fighting prowess of a wet mop.
"Hello sir, I'll need your name and skills so that you can be best placed into a group that will compliment your skills."

Everything was thrown into chaos as soon as the large amount of troops showed up at the palace gates along with the chariot of light pulled by 4 winged orses carrying the noble that was in it. What was going on? The grand circus that was going on was very strange. The guards worked to maintain order as some of the individuals waiting in line decided that this task was foolhardy or just plain scared off by the large number of troops outside the palace gates. Many of them were criminals and did not wish to be crushed beneath the heels of the army.

A terrified guard opened his mouth to respond. "Ssir. You'll have to list yyout nname and sskills so that you can bbe best placed into a group befitting your skills."​

 

[waifu]

Sebastian didn't mind people taking his scarves, in fact he was flattered. They too had good taste, just like him, he thought to himself with a smug look. There seemed to be another grand entry, a nobleman perhaps? who made their way to the palace gates. Sebastian glanced at the carriage and troops that came along this person. Maybe he could try buying them off of their owner later, a carriage would definitely help in storing all these new scarves.

Sebastian's canine ears twitched out of curiosity as he was handed a piece of paper and pen, he was instructed to fill the form out with his given name and skills so they could place him in a group. "A group?" His eyebrows furrowed. "I don't need a group." Sebastian was taken back but continued to fill out the form.

Spoiler: Form

NAME:
SEBASTIAN OREJÓN
SKILLS:
1. PRINCE!
2. GOOD NOSE!
3. GOOK LOOKS!
4. GOOD PHYSIQUE!
5. GOOD AT EVERYTHING!
REQUIREMENT:
WIFE!!!!

Sebastian rolled up his application, tied a little bow around it with one of his silk scarves, and handed it back to the palace guard. There were a lot of different smells in this place, it was honestly making Sebastian's nose go haywire. There was one in particular that caught his attention. He didn't know how to describe it, other than it being... old. Sebastian took out a scarf from his pocket and sneezed into it.

 

[LadyOfStars]

Olivier De Lasarre
Warlord of Hera’s Keep​

Olivier had expected to be given a very detailed answer to her questions, as if the man worked directly for the Emperor and could explain the man’s actions. What she had not expected was for some strange looking man to appear from the crowd and disrespectfully point out the shape of her ears while also inserting himself into her business. The blond warlord focused her attention on him momentarily, but as thought of cutting the man down rushed through her mind, she had to focus instead on avoiding a scene. This was the capital afterall, plenty of eyes watching her actions and very little control over whether the law sides in her favor or not.

“You’re right, I am asking the wrong man.” She stepped away from the crier and his stage, withdrawing from the interaction entirely. “Come on.” She called as she gestured to the bodyguard that was nearby. Olivier started towards the palace, releasing her grip on the enchanted blade as she merged into the crowd. The answers she sought could only be gotten from the man in charge, not some random pedestrian on the street.

“David, I understand that you’re only being paid to serve as a bodyguard, so if you wish to end our contract you may. I only ask that you do so in favor of a more acceptable line of work than this….foolish quest that the emperor is sending people on.” Olivier looked back over her shoulder at the young warrior as she walked on, keeping a steady pace.

 

[cinnabuns]

F I L O

"Yes, please fill out your name and appropriate skills at hand so that you can be properly grouped with individuals that will best compliment your abilities in battle."

Filo didn't bat an eyelash, the quill the guard offered her moving seemingly by itself to fill out her information. She ignored his audible awe at the action; he couldn't be no more than twenty, twenty-five. He was basically a child, compared to her. Childlike wonder was important to keep, even at his age. Even if people wanted to take that from him and make him fight.

Speaking of childlike wonder.

Filo raised an eyebrow as she heard a man haughtily announce his arrival. The other eyebrow raised when she heard a...drop of clothing? Somehow heavy....

Thankfully, from the sounds the citizens made, it wasn't a man, drunk off of his ass, stripping his clothing. No, he had just been...releasing something. Okay. That made no sense, in front of the castle.

He must have been new.

And speaking of new things, here came someone on...a horse-drawn carriage?

Filo's eyes narrowed as the man - very much distinguishable by his voice - ordered a guard around, and as she heard his own guards push around those who didn't seem to listen to the message.

She wouldn't be so easily pushed, she’d decided, as two of his guards came up to her and tried to take her by the shoulders.

Their fingers didn't make it to her personal bubble, and when they attempted once more, they realized...something was holding them back. A quick look revealed the culprit to be thread. Thread? The men tried not to snicker as they made a third and final go at the woman in the way of their Viscount, but....

This thread was much stronger than they'd imagined, yanking them by their fingers away from her, away from the crowd, and back to their master.

"So, you still spend your time ordering people around?"

Filo offered the question to man on the chariot. She didn't bother looking him in the face, for the words he spoke, the tone he used, it all breathed and oozed Von Kraufleir. Especially the fourth in the lineage of those idiots. It was slightly amusing to imagine from what she could gather; even he knew there was no point of her looking.

"Or can you not walk by yourself to sign in, 'Captain'? For crying out loud, you're scaring him."

A reference to the guard who was still chattering his teeth together to finish his words. Filo rolled her eyes, not at him, but at the man, still on his golden "throne". "Give him a break and follow the law you spend so much time preaching about."

[ Athanas ]

 

[Dragonlord318]

LadyOfStars Trektek cinnabuns waifu Athanas Huntertabbysandshark3 Mykinkaiser
David watched as his contractee's hand twitched on her sword handle after she turned to give her attention to the armored figure. He kept the Wall up just in case things got dicey, but thankfully was able to bring it down when she dismissed him as though he were yesterday's clothes. He was relieved she reigned her anger in.

He followed wordlessly, giving the armored freak not so much as a cursory glance, as all he needed to know was in the air around him. He noted that the being must be magical, as he couldn't find where the armor stopped and skin started. He didn't have time to focus on it, however, as his Contractee had spoken to him. He noted the other persons and creatures that arrived, a gentleman with too much money to spend, a grandiose caravan of wonder and awe - to someone who had never seen such things. David had seen weapons and animals of light on his many works, and the way those participating in said caravan held themselves as though they were on a nobler mission than anyone else. He scoffed mentally. Again, haughty and desperate. He also noted other strong warriors that came, ensuring to note their "Air Signature" so that in the future, he'd be able to identify them even when he couldn't see them.

He shook his head at Olivier's request. "My Lord, where you go, I go. I cannot leave your side until the contract is fulfilled. And the specifications were to accompany you until you return to the Keep." He looked around again before continuing, "You need not worry of me embarking on this endeavor alone, as contracts without up front payment, and also promises of grandeur are for the hopelessly desperate and those with turned up noses, My Lord." He looked out of the corner of his eye at her. "I know you only wish to stop this nonsense, and if it means you fight for the lesser, then you will. Your cause is just and right. Even if you returned to Hera's Keep today to forcibly end our contract, I would most likely stay by your side, as I have not found half a dozen others as just and merciful as you, My Lord."

 

[Athanas]

Seraphanis found the guard's nervousness utterly unacceptable. Stammering in front of a superior? Father would've had him lashed for his lack of mental fortitude! Luckily, Seraphanis had no such time, currently. "Guard, do you not recognize me? I am Viscount Von Kraufleir the Fourth! How can you be so oblivious, as to not know my magical prowess? Or my reputation as a defender of this Empire's g borders?! Why, Code dictates I should punish you most harshly for this transgression, and-"
His rant was cut short as he heard a voice. Not just any voice, mind: Her voice. What she was doing here? Probably came to make some new clothes for the emeperor, although-why wouldn't they just bring her mother? She couldn't possibly wish to enlist? Definitely not, no. His already anxious demeanor was considerably worsened as another surprise was thrown in the mix. What was Lachesis doing here?

Times like these, he was most grateful for the mask that concealed his features, for his surprise was impossible to note. He made a small wave with his hand, and the retainers stopped trying to mae contact with her. He addressed her, assuming his most deadpan tone. "Lady Filomena. What a pleasant surprise to see you here. Surely, his Imperial majesty has need of new clothing? Cannot imagine to what other end your presence would be justified. You can't possibly mean to embark on such a perilous quest!"

He turned back to the scared-witless guard, and begrudgingly accepted the form. He handed it off to a retainer, who quickly began filling it with all sorts of praise. albeit also diligently adding on his commander's abilities. Seraphanis dismounted from his preposterously excessive chariot, and approached his old friend, addressing her: "It has been a not insignificant amount of time since I have last seen you. How have the years treated you? I am doing rather well, myself-I am Viscount, and Captain of the Empire's armies!"

His tone exclaimed all the enthusiasm one would expect from a loyal subject of the emperor, yet his body language changed, almost inconceivably at his own words.
Feels more like a branding than it does a title....

Trektek cinnabuns

 

[Trektek]

The Palace Gates
cinnabuns , Mykinkaiser , waifu , Athanas Huntertabbysandshark3 , LadyOfStars , Dragonlord318

The guard took Sebastian's form and sighed as he took the pretty bow out from the scarf and then he looked it over after pocketing the scarf, writing down the insanity down the line to be messaged towards the others. It wasn't the first person to fill the form out as a joke and it sure wasn't going to be the last. It was going to be a very long next few days, to be sure. "Please move ahead to the foyer, sir. There you will wait for your name to be called and a room to be given for assignment."


The Guard took the filled out information that was handed to him by Filoso that he could register it on the magical system before him, "Um, Miss?" He spoke as she had walked away to talk to Seraphanis. "If you could, please move to the foyer and wait for your name to be called so that you can be grouped into rooms and then briefed on your mission."

The Guard before Seraphanis was quaking in his armor. This man before him was very menacing and even came with a practical army before him. It was unusual and unprecedented. He was about to attempt to respond again when Filo started speaking to Seraphanis to which he had breathed a sigh of relief. As the form was taken, filled out, and handed back to him, he had to speak the next step. "E..excuse m..me. You have t..to m..move on to the F..foyer and await your n..name to be..called."

David and Olivier had arrived at the line. The amount of people in general was staggering. People of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds had assembled to try to gain something from the Imperium. It was a time for the benefit of those who could grasp it.


The Foyer

Anyone that would have moved into the Foyer would first notice just how large of an area it was. In the center of the foyer was a large fountain with gorgeous statues of dragons spewing out water, with tasteful maidens nearby. A ruffian attempted to pour something into the water oly to be tackled by a nearby guard and carted away. Even though many people were trickling into the Palace of the Emperor of the Keleran Imperium, it did not stop them from being diligent in their duties in case anyone wished to try to tamper or steal anything from within.

There were large groups of people and on a podium at the top of some stairs further ahead, a Halfling standing on a stool was loudly announcing names and for which room they need to report to for their assignment.​

 

[waifu]

Sebastian eyed the guard pocketing his scarf. "Hmph," was his only response to the instructions as he walked ahead. It was unexpected how many people showed up to this thing; he hated waiting, he was used to getting things immediately. There should be a separate line for the privileged - he would have to talk to the king about that.

The foyer was magnificent, it was certainly bigger than the foyer in his own castle. The fountains at the center of the open area were magnificent and were shaped to look like several different types of dragons gushing out water. It was all very exquisite, save for one minor detail. Sebastian rubbed his nose. This smell. This dreadful familiar smell. The smell of pheromones.

Oh no.

Sebastian hissed at the women in his vicinity. He bolted towards the fountain and dunked his head inside water.