Fantasy The Divine Conquerors - Northern Expedition

[Snackofthefuture]

OROBO, KHAOUL AND Hecate
​

Orobo looked at Hecate with a mix of pity, disgust and trepidation. She was definitely a strange one, that he could tell. He motioned for his guards to tighten their formation slightly and then looked at Hecate. "Hecate yes? I think I saw you at the first summoning." Orobo moved a little away from Khaoul as Hecate wrung her arms about the demon lord. He circled the two a little bit looking at them with a puzzled expression. Interesting the two of them knew each other, Hecate did not seem the sort to associate with Khaoul, and vice versa.

Khaoul, upon being bombarded by the smaller demoness, did not return her cutsey affirmations of affection and instead chose to gaze about the scene laid out before him.

Hecate had been busy, enough so that she had already secured new candidates for dollification. During the invasion days of the mortal realms, Khaoul had often spared the mortals of interest for Hecate's whims. Occasionally she produced demonspawn of reputable note, adding to the Onslaught's unique ranks. Khaoul rarely felt any other semblance of emotion save for wrath, but now a flicker of satisfaction passed through his mind. At least this world held something familiar to him. Hecate was still Hecate.

"An unknown divine power has bound me by contract to this mortal. I am cursed to this fate until it releases me or dies." Khaoul turned now to look at Orobo with steely eyes, remembering the ire this whole situation roused in him.

Hecate stared at Orobo as he mentioned the first summon, tilting her head. It's been a long time since then. The only clear figures she recalled were Ivan and Felicia. And this person; for someone like Khaoul to bring him under his command, he was definitely strong. But not as strong as Khaoul, of that she was certain. Moreover, he remembered her name and mentioned seeing her. Hecate politely smiled at her summon buddy and asked, "Do I know you?"

She looked back at her old "sibling" when he spoke, mouth frozen agape. There was something about a contract and being cursed to fate and death. Hecate blinked. "Huh?" Kale's talking hogwash again.

Orobo spoke now, careful not to inspire wrath in the demon lord, Orobo chose his words carefully. "Yes, we might have seen each other during the first summoning back 3 weeks. Me and Khaoul however, are contracted for the time being. Well learn to work together eventually. Were going to be headed further up north if you would like to come, you gotta stop killing people from around here though." Orobo knew from heartell and what was currently before him that Hecate was one of the more murderous summoned.

It would be better if she stopped. Stopped killing people, or at least stopped doing it so blatantly and out in the open. She was terrible for PR, that much Orobo could tell.

"Killing?" Hecate scratched her head. One of the Maidens crawled over, sputtering unintelligible cries and nonsense as she latched onto Orobo's leg. "But... they're so happy! They're not dead at all, you liar!" She pointed at the screeching Maiden as an example, believing the cacophany to be screams of joy. Hecate puffed her cheeks and looked away from the summoner, crossing her arms. The Maiden then fell limp as another leaped out, dragging her back to the tea table by the legs. "Hey! No fighting!" Hecate yelled to them.

She chuckled to the others. "They're usually like this," she said with a warm smile. Hecate thought about what Khaoul's "minion" had said, figuring that the contract was some slave thing that made the little human obey the demon. The question of her wanting to come with them was a no brainer, though. "Of course I'm coming! Wherever Kale goes, I go!"

Khaoul continued to survey Hecate's handiwork with mild disinterest, apparently passing the time as the smaller demon conversed with the mortal. Khaoul was not one for small talk and so decided to keep silent, waiting for something to happen.

There were no mortals nearby that he could punish, and he wouldn't dare tamper with another demon's quarry. Demons from his world were not an unruly rabble of disorganised murderers, they knew respect and etiquette. Hecate had laid claim to the lives of these mortals and Khaoul had no right to infringe upon that. Even so, the wealth of sin emanating from these mewling humans wafted past the demon lord like a foul rolling stench. Khaoul may have pitied their unfortunate toiling existences, if pity was something he was capable of.

However the talk of travelling North was something of interest to Khaoul.

"What lies to the North, mortal?" He growled in question of Orobo's plan.

"Answers, or so I've heard, clues as to why this country is so overrun with demons, why the demons are this way and what made them like this." Orobo responded to Khaoul curtly. He had already figured out how to tame the demons, now he just needed to get started on the hordes. Perhaps if he could reactivate his older abilities he'd be able to increase his control over the masses. That would be step one to conquering accomplished.

Then hopefully he could bring Czarsnikei over to his side. Or at least enough of it that he could take the remaining parts. The Solomon Fortress had seemed partial to the idea so Orobo figured he could rely on others to support his takeover of Czarsnikei. If he could end the demon threat he would have a good front for taking over the country. Sort of like a mutiny to save the ship if this were on pirate terms. Then he would turn his sights on Nortestra and Mollug. Mollug and Xact would most likely fight each other into submission after Nortestra had fallen.

So Nortestra and Mollug would be easy prey. Xact and Belldan would be wildcards depending on how the coming wars were fought. Then there were the other nations. Across the sea were others to conquer. Hopefully at some point SIN would contact him again and Orobo would find out why he was to conquer. Some answers to the question of the Summoned would probably be helpful. Enlightenment on their situation could go a long way.

But until then, he was going to head north, figure out the demon problem and hopefully get Khaoul to stop trying to kill him. It would be no small feat, but Orobo figured it wasnt impossible.

"Well, its settled then, Hecate, you may accompany us on our journey north. Now if there is anything more youd like to discuss, Im sure you can do it on our way back to the fortress. We need to work on getting some guides and assistance from the Fortress for our journey."

Saying nothing, a puff of smoke exhaled from Khaoul's nose. Orobo's short answer did not fill the towering demon with any modicum of motivation for the task ahead. Indeed Khaoul actually didn't want to head North to uncover the undoubtedly insidious plot that had encapsulated the country, but he had little other options available to him. Grunting with slighted indifference, Khaoul followed the summoner back towards the fortress. There was not much point in simply trying to run away and leave, Orobo would call him back and the contract was inviolable.

He didn't look back to see if Hecate was following. Either she would come out of the sheer boredom Khaoul assumed she shared with him, or she'd realise that there were much better things to be doing such as punishing the sins of mortals. Royal demons such as they had a much higher calling than that of the silly little stories Orobo was hellbent on exploring.

What had interested him, however, was the strange yet all so familiar feeling Khaoul could sense throughout his body now. After the stabilisation of the contract prior to his awakening from the brink of death not so long ago, Khaoul' soul had since acclimitised somewhat to the world he now found himself in. With it, his magic felt less entangled and tainted. It would take some testing, but the demon lord was certain that more of his Seven Deadly Sins had become available to him, yearning to exact fateful vengeance on any mortal that dare sin before him. Khaoul clenched his fist, wisps of flames billowing faintly from his eyes in cold Czarsnikeian snow gales.

His next battle would take things to a whole new level.

Kloudy StaidFoal

 

[Juju]

Lady IchikaInteraction: Snackofthefuture (Silver Jon)​

Ichika waited patiently for those footsteps to draw closer, and for the little messenger to leave. She felt each of their steps stir upon the veining network of roots just below them. Over the long years her roots had wormed their way into the loose spaces between stone and mortar, until the very foundations and bones of the keep were more living than not.

So many feet had come and gone, many never to return. No two were ever the same, and she could gladly spend an entire human day just pleasantly observing the little people go about their lives.. Yet today, she couldn't focus on any of it. Her mind was in so many places at once, part in the snows, part at a tea party, and another in the crumbled well of a town.

"Ah, my Silver Warrior." Ichika purred as soon as she laid eyes on Silver Jon. The hem of her flowing dress made a light hiss as it dragged on the fortress floor behind her. Snowflakes rested in her hair, an easy smile on her face. With her came the fresh smell of petals. "You poor thing, how tired you look. Have you been sleeping well? Might I tempt you with a few invigorating teas from my garden?"

The so called Father of Solomon had certainly come a long way from the salt-stained pirate who had first walked through the gates of the keep. She had watched him bloom over the years, let the growth warm her heart. All of Solomon had become her garden, yet a few of her flowers always stood out more than the others. Still, every gardener knew when a flower had reached the end of its prime, that no matter how much care and nutrients were given, a barren tree would bear no more fruit. All things were destined to wither, and so would this man.

"It pains me to place yet another worry at your feet, but I must tell you that something of interest stirs in the ruins of Lullin." her eyes glinted enigmatically in the lantern light, "The Mad God has appeared, and with him he calls forth more children of chaos. Shall we dispatch riders to invite them to the keep? Should they empathize to our cause we would no longer rely on the meager support of distant nobles to combat the demon threat, nor on the favor of a single summoned."

 

[Solirus]

Golem​

​

Target remains still, remain near and ready

…

New sound originating… Sound is unknown… Travel to sound? Negative: Threat in front… Possibility for sound to be Threat? Possible

…

Surrounding analyzed… Footsteps of Unknown Threat recorded

…

Initiating seeker mode


Golem suddenly broke its stare from the Threat and turned to face where the sound originated, turning its entire body as well and marching forth moving through the terrain avoiding the environment. Eventually Golem made its way reaching a newly developed crater with the surrounding trees destroyed and the snow melted. In the center there was a an unconscious girl bleeding out with pillars of smoke nearby


Target of crater identified

Scanning

Results inconclusive

…

Scanning

Results inconclusive

…

Scanning

Results inconclusive… further information required

Commencing overwatch mode


Golem now stood at the edge of the crater staring at the unconscious girl waiting to gain more information from her to gain a proper result.

Mentions: Juju

 

[Snackofthefuture]

OROBO, KHAOUL, HECATE
THE INHABITANTS OF THE SOLOMON FORTRESS
Authored by Snackofthefuture StaidFoal Juju Kloudy Kaihaku​

Silver Jon walked with Isekare, the two having met on their way to see the Lady of the Fortress. Ichika, an old tree demon with many tricks up her sleeve and a heart so full of caring, it seemed it might burst. Isekare, a vampire swordsman who loved very little but his cats. Isekare was junior of the three however and respected both Silver Jon and Ichika immensely. They were close to him, good comrades who had been there for him when his cats couldn't help.

They entered the room Ichika was in, the bodyguards opening the doors as they moved closer. Isekare bowed for a small period before Ichika and then Silver Jon opened, replying “Funny you should ask, I was meditating, like you recommended. I'll admit it wasn't so terrible, not a bad idea to be honest.” Silver Jon smiled at Ichika, it was definitely interesting having her in the fortress, she was an asset that few others could boast of. And none had convinced him to meditate before; she was definitely special. “Tea can come later, we must make haste and deal with the issues popping up here."

A summoning in Czarsnikei. What were the odds? What Ichika said made much sense and Silver Jon nodded at her idea of obtaining some of the summoned. Orobo was not one they should rely on. If he could actually accomplish the goal he was setting out for, then perhaps more discussion of a new nation could be had. But, until then, The Solomon Fortress would look after its own interests. Silver Jon nodded several more times as he thought of what to do, then he looked at Isekare and Ichika and said, "We will send soldiers to Lullin, and we will send soldiers with Orobo, only volunteers for the summoner. His quest is likely to be a suicide mission. Isekare and Ronin will go with the soldiers to Lullin. We will invite them to join our fortress as warriors in exchange for a home and a well paying job."

Isekare blinked several times and held his tongue. Was more summoned really the answer? He was definitely on the fence about the inter-dimensional travelers. Ichika seemed to want to use them, Silver Jon wanted to embrace them. Isekare couldnt help but want to pull away. the Summoned were very dangerous, Isekare almost felt like they brought disaster along with them where they went. He was hesitant, but in truth he was just concerned for his cats. Isekare could be quite a cautious person at times.

Meanwhile, Orobo, Khaoul and Hecate were entering the fortress. The gate was lowered after some minor demons were shooed away. The three entered unmolested, though Orobo had a feeling it would be better if they left sooner rather than later. The men Hecate had taken and transformed were most definitely going to be missed soon. But of course, Orobo had the feeling if he asked, he could probably have the deaths swept under the rug. Czarsnikei was a very dangerous place after all.

Soldiers were waiting for them in the courtyard by the time they had prepared all their things. None of The Summoned owned very much more than the clothes on their backs, excluding Khaoul in that area. There were about 100 soldiers in all, ranging dramatically in equipment, demeanor and apparent strength. About 70 of the soldiers looked about average, whereas the other 30 looked like definite badasses.

Hecate clung to Khaoul's leg as they walked in, looking between the countless figures that surrounded them. She wasn't used to being around so many faceless people, moving around like mindless mannequins. She wanted to give them all a face to express themselves, but Hecate refrained; it was rare for them not to attack her on sight, and she didn't want to provoke them.

Khaoul squinted with derision as the trio entered the courtyard, staring at the soldiers that lined up before them. A few began to shake and quiver as the demon lord blew a puff a black smoke from his nose. When they stopped, he addressed Orobo without looking at him.

"Why are we bringing these mortals, their presence will only prologue this pointless venture." He picked up one of the Czarsnekians by the neck and lifted him up for examination. The man struggled weakly in the royal demon's massive hand.

Khaoul didn't understand why they needed the soldiers in the first place. Their strength was a mere fraction compared to what summoned could offer and their need to rest and eat would only delay their journey. The demon lord suspected it was merely a gesture of goodwill to the commander of this fortress, but then again Khaoul would have simply conquered it along with the entire country by force had it been him.

Orobo was grateful for the soldiers Silver Jon was sending, they would be able to deal with menial tasks easily and provide watch at nights. Orobo did need to sleep sometimes, so having the extra backup would be appreciated. Mortals were often easier to predict and trust then demons due to lifespan, survivability, common interests, etc etc.

But Orobo enjoyed the challenge a strong demon provided. Orobo was not one to back down easily, that much was certain. "Were bringing the mortals because we need a more permanent set of defense between us and the demons. I can summon plenty of warriors to fight by our side, but I cant do it forever. The soldiers are coming to make sure we can get some rest occasionally. Theyll help this job run much more smoothly."

Orobo watched as Khaoul lifted one of the soldiers from the ground. He was already attempting to establish dominance over the mortals. He wanted them to understand his strength. "Khaoul please, put the man down. Were going to be working with these people." Orobo huffed and crossed his arms.

The demon grunted with unimpressed disdain and tossed the man aside, causing him to bowl another soldier over with a clatter of equipment. The ranks lined up muttered and shuffled in place, uneasy now with the mission they had been tasked with. Protecting some summoned while they vanquished the demon threat they all faced seem noble and straightfoward enough, but the realisation of what exactly it was they were protecting was only now kicking in. On the contrary, it may be they who need protection after all.

One of the assembled soldiers, a swordsman with blond hair, watched the demon's casual violence with a pleasant smile plastered on his face and cold golden eyes. One hand shifted to rest on the hilt of his sheathed blade but he stood still for now.

Khaoul continued walking down the line, scornfully squinting as he sized up the cold-borne retinue. Indeed, Khaoul could of course tell that some were stronger than others. Incomparable to him as ants were to giants, but comparable nonetheless. Beyond that, Khaoul could also sense the various swirling thoughts and feelings of sin coursing through their ranks.

"As expected of mortal refuse... They reek of sinful weakness."

"Wouldnt you be sorta useless without sin Khaoul? What do you think you would even do were you not chained so to your purpose? I ask that honestly." Orobo crossed his arms in slight annoyance as Khaoul tossed the soldier into the others. Some of the soldiers were obviously slightly rethinking their decisions now. But most of them were not average soldiers, they had been brave enough to volunteer for what Orobo imagined many of them thought of as a suicide mission. Orobo was actually sort of surprised at how many men were coming with them.

Khaoul regarded Orobo with even more disrepute than the soldiers, "You presume too often, mortal. I am not chained, I am endowed with purpose."

Silver Jon, Isekare and Ichika then appeared in the courtyard, coming from a large connecting building to the central fortress area. There were several guards surrounding them.

"Well said, Orobo. What shape is virtue without the sculpting of vice? Every soul unique, tapestries of different make, patterns change like tides." Ichika trod delicately in the snow, approaching Khaoul. She had seen him toss the soldier to the side, and while the Great Tree's branches bristled with thorns, her avatar bore only a smile. She lowered her head in a practiced bow, "It warms my heart to witness your safe return, Orobo and Khaoul."

She took a moment to help the fallen soldiers up, turning her back to Khaoul . Once the snowy soldiers were back on their feet she finally turned her attention back to the demonic prince, studying him like the jackal might regard the trapped wolf. Then, her eyes shifted to the small child behind him and her gaze sparked with a new light.

"Ah... and who is this budding little blossom? Look at you, how simply splendid. Oh my, but look at the state of your poor dress. Sweet thing, would you like my servants to fix your dress... or perhaps you would rather a new dress entirely! Oh my and your hair, it is need of a good brush. Perhaps a warm bath is in order."

She paused and gave Orobo a cool gaze. "Orobo, please tell me you do not intend to take this little flower with you on your expedition."

Hecate shrank behind Khaoul's leg, cautiously meeting Ichika's gaze. Not that she'd be able to tell if the child was staring directly at her. If a faceless creature approached Hecate, it was never usually a good thing. However, the woman's words made her raise a brow. Someone who sounded this nice was even rarer! Being able to speak to someone before they lunged at her with a scary weapon or ran away was scarce.

"You... You would do that for me?" she asked, bouncing out of cover in a little twirl. Hecate glanced down at her dress, finally realizing how mucked and torn up it had become. No wonder it felt colder than usual. She took a hand to her hair, slightly frowning at the roughness of the strands. How long has it been since someone tidied her up? She remembered the dry and cold hands of the Mad King, her father, but there was another feeling she remembered. It was warm and soft, giving her utmost care to the child... Who was it?

"If you want to, I guess you'll be my min—" But only now did she recall the things Ivan taught her—as pushy as he was about it. She quietly cleared her throat, hiding her writhing hands behind her back and holding each other in place. She brought out the widest grin she could manage and looked Ichika in the eye. "Does that mean you'll be my friend?"

Khaoul growled and folded his arms, gazing to the back of the soldiers' line to see if any of them were hiding a strong warrior.

"Do not fratenise with the mortals, Hecate. They will try to trick you if they can."

"My, my, Khaoul, you wound me. I speak only from the depths of my heart," Ichika said smoothly, turning her attention back to Hecate with a smile, "My dear, I would never trick you. Why, I pinky promise... cross my heart and hope to die."

The smiling lady took her pinky and made a cross above her heart. She then crouched in the snow, her flowing dress pooling around her, and held a hand out to Hecate. "Of course I will be your friend, if you would be mine as well. Ah, but any friendship begins with a name. My name is Lady Ichika, but you may just call me Ichika."

Hecate glanced up at Khaoul, then down at Ichika's feet. For a moment, she held her hands back. Only for a moment, though, as a thought came to mind. Ivan didn't trick me... She held out a hand, pale as the snow and just as frigid. Her pinky connected with the woman's with a gentle touch. "You won't be mean, too... Ichika?" Strangely enough, despite all her "interactions" with people beforehand, she felt a lot more shy than usual.

Ichika grinned softly, "You have my word, little blossom. You are my guest now, and that means you are under my protection. Just like your friends."

Orobo shrugged and spoke, saying, "Well, I wont stop her from coming with us. She seems strong enough to survive, and independent enough to want to do her own thing. I wont stand in her way if she wishes to come further north with us."

"Ah, but of course. I have no doubt what a strong little bud she is, but Solomon offers a bounty of opportunity where the snows lay barren." The lady stood back up to her full height and regarded Orobo serenely before turning back to Hecate, "Little blossom, you are most free to frolick in the snows with your friends, but if you wish to stay behind with me I would be most honored. I have a room within my halls for you, a warm bath and fresh clothing until your dress is fixed up. Perhaps you would also wish to walk with me in my gardens, or perhaps bake a few cherry cakes?"

She covered her mouth with a long sleeve and chuckled lightly, "Oh my... perhaps I am letting the excitement get the better of me."

Orobo couldnt help but feel some positive emotions towards Ichika as she spoke to Hecate. The demon woman was quite smooth in her speech. Orobo made a mental note to try and get a contract with her if he survived his trip to the Northern Wastes.

Orobo looked at the soldiers all lined up in front of him. He was glad to have them. They would come in handy. Several stepped forward, detailing information of ranking and command to Orobo. The summoner took in all the knowledge quickly, deciding to remember ranking officers and important individuals first and foremost.

One Natalie Fo stepped forward with the Czarsnikeian officers. She had short dark hair and relaxed eyes that showed confidence. Orobo liked her already; If there was one thing the summoner appreciated, it was competence. He nodded in her direction as she introduced herself to the summoned. When she got to Khaoul she looked the demon up and down and bared her teeth. To think shed have to work with something like this.

Natalie bowed to Orobo, waved pleasantly at Hecate and nodded vaguely in Khaouls direction. His mistreatment of the others was already being noted throughout the unit. Soon enough Khaoul would have to rely on only himself, as most of the Czarsnikeians could already tell he wasnt worth trusting. Not that Khaoul appeared to be particularly bothered by that fact.

Another named Viktor approached and also bowed, placing a fist over his chest as he did so. He did this to the Czarsnikeian commanders and both Orobo and Khaoul, a comment left for each of them. "I will be watching your back Orobo. Khaoul is it, we might be distant cousins considering the demonic ancestry of Yetis. Perhaps we can be of use to each other."

The blond swordsman stepped forward, the same pleasant smile on his face though his eyes lack any warmth. He states his name as Asher Wong Fang and identifies himself as demonslayer. He turns his pleasant smile to Khaoul as he notes this before stepping back into the ranks.

A green skinned woman steps forward, nodding gruffly to the assembled summoned. She introduces herself as Snezhana Gennahide, a mercenary turned soldier.

A young woman steps forward to introduce herself as Jae Annika Kyong. She explains that she is a caster who specializes in seals. She presents a spell scribed on a paper token to Orobo, as an offering to place on Khaoul if he gets out of control.

Orobo takes the slip of paper and looks at it with a smile before thanking Jae. He didnt really need other peoples seals and trinkets, but it might be worth it to have the spell.

Silver Jon looked the soldiers up and down, smiling at several of the volunteers, before turning and giving the summoned an appraising look. He looked at Khaoul and Orobo and chuckled, "Take care of them Summoned."

In the distance, a beastwoman took another sip of her tea, eyeing the summoned from the table she sat at. Earlier, she turned down an invite to meet them in person; she simply did not want to let her tea run cold.

Khaoul, despite the clear hostility towards, did not react to their baits and continued gazing across the crowd. To think he was to fight with the mortals, rather than being the one to deliver destruction to them. It felt strange to Khaoul, unnatural. He had been created to judge the other races and punish them for the weakness that lies in their hearts.

He was the judge and he was the executioner.

The demon lord was not otherwise interested in what the mortals thought of him. With Orobo sealing him from his duty, Khaoul had little want for ambition or desire to partake in the expedition they were about to embark on. Indeed, he was only following as he needed to somehow assure Orobo's death and become freed from the contract. Until then, everything else was just going through the motions.

Orobo nodded at Silver Jon and said, "Will do old man, Ill try to keep as many alive as I can." Orobo chuckled and held out his hand to shake Silver Jons. Silver Jon took the hand and shook it twice with an intense grip.

The summoner was in a very risky position. This expedition would be his chance to show the Czarsnikeians what he could do. If he failed, it almost certainly meant death, either by execution or Khaoul. The fiery demon couldnt hide his contempt and animosity, little subtlety or pity in his dark eyes. Orobo knew demons like Khaoul by the score, but that didnt mean hed ever let his guard down. If Khaoul kept making attempts on Orobos life, or engaging in self sabotage, then Orobo would have to put the demon down. The summoner figured that with the contract it wouldnt be so hard, but if it was broken, well... He would need a little more than a hundred soldiers to take the monster down.

 

[Snackofthefuture]

SIN​

The snow flurried down around the gathered summoned and SIN, cascading gently onto their shoulders and heads. The snow was a dazzling white and shone in the fire light. SIN wandered over back to his couch and sat down with his vodka, taking several deep sips. SIN waved for the others to join him, but did not mind whatever they did. “If you wish to know more of why you’re here, and what is going on, simply take a seat at the bonfire.

SIN took a deep gulp of vodka and loafed back on the couch, enjoying the snow and the heat of the fire. He looked back one more time and then began to speak of the nations of the first continent. He spoke of Czarsnikei, of Nortestra, Mollug, Xact, Belldan, and many other places. He spoke of the Grand Palaces of Verruk, the five walls of Castella and the Soaring towers of Klaus Castle. He spoke of great champions past, like Gregory or Yoldra, summoned and non summoned who’d changed the world at times. SIN didnt seem all that interested, but he was trying to focus and tell the summoned things of vague and surreal importance. SIN even brought up The House of the Old Gods, the ancient and cursed home in the east of Mollug.

SIN spoke of the great frozen forests of Czarsnikei, the mountain passes between Mollug and Nortestra, the rivers running all through Nortestra. SIN even spoke of some of the Summoned, discussing those that had fallen, disappeared and those that stayed on the path to glory. Kotori and Wakinyan, the keeper of the storm and the storm itself, Hitori and Hakai, beings that rivaled each other and were destined to encounter one another on their paths. SIN even discussed some of Virtue’s summoned, simply counting them among the summoned number. Voorjhar and POMA came up during this as beings that would most certainly be relevant at some point soon, including mentions of others such as Bastion or Nemu. Of course, in SIN’s opinion, all the summoned were relevant, gone from the stage of the Valucian theater or not.

The Summoned that had been brought forth for Czarsnikei’s summoning were few compared to past summonings, but that just meant SIN had less people to talk to.

@ everyone at the current summoning

 

[Gohan510]

=Return of the Legendary Samurai. Visits with Lady Ichika=
Collab: Ronin/Lady Ichika/Hina
Location: Solomen Fortress
Interactions: Lady Ichika/Hina Juju
Mentions: Silver Jon/Isekare/Orobo ( Snackofthefuture ), Khaoul ( Kloudy ), Ullis ( Solirus )
​

Ronin the powerful noble Samurai of the Shogu Clan. Ronin was writing his family a letter finally finishing it. He was sitting proper inside of his private room within Soloman Fortress. He was letting them know that he was fine, summoned arrived, and that the demon infestation was starting to grow by the day as the hordes continued to come. For the past week it’s been okay though not much went down, mostly politics on if they should trust the summoned that arrived only a week ago. Ronin didn’t have any trust in the summoned he constantly explained this to Ichika in their private conversations. The fact Khaoul had killed a fellow commander angered Ronin, though he did not allow it to knock his focus off balance. Though as the few days passed on and after having to bury Doroteya it was a hard pill for Ronin to swallow and will not be forgotten.

After finishing the letter he tied it with a small rope around a messenger bird telling its location and person of delivery. Soon watching the bird fly off into the snowy abyss. The messenger birds were hawks with white and faded blue feathers. Ronin turned and put his armor back on after finally being able to leave his living quarters. Walking through Soloman fortress Ronin was headed to pay another visit with Ichika, visiting her helped since he really didn’t talk to Isekare too much, but he did speak to Silver Jon frequently. She also allowed the samurai to meditate and practice his swordsmanship within the garden.

Looking around the beautiful garden that was the highlight of the fortress Ronin looked for any sign of Lady Ichika or her adorable assistant, that’s usually scrambling around. Ronin head a bit deeper usually he found the woman sipping on some tea admiring her “children”.

Today he found her nestled amid a thicket of spider lilies, sat upon the snow with her flowing dress pooling around her. A basket of woven reeds sat beside her, already holding a small harvest of the severed flower heads, all neatly piled. The lady hummed a faint tune as she worked with a small silver knife, seemingly unaware of the samurai behind her.

Approaching her, Ronin gave her a bow of respect. “Greetings. I’ve come to your garden once more. I hope you don’t mind my intrusion.”

“Do not apologize, for you make no intrusion. You are my guest, and The Ruby Garden welcomes all with an open embrace.” Ichika said sweetly, continuing her work without looking at the samurai. Delicately, she sliced another flower and placed it into the basket with the others. Then, she paused, tilting her head to the side. A sliver of a red eye glanced back at Ronin, curious. “Have you come to train, little samurai, or is there something that lurks in your heart?”

“I appreciate the warm welcoming. It's an honor to be able to visit such a well kept garden. Hard to come by in these parts of the continent.” Ronin looked around and noticed some beautiful birds were around the garden as well, this was the most inspirational place within this snowy wasteland. “I’ve come to discuss with you about the recent meeting we had. Shall we take a seat and share a cup of tea?” Ronin offered his help to hold her basket.

A laugh escaped the lady, bright and merry, “Oh my, what a poor hostess I have become. I should be the one offering this.” She covered her mouth with a sleeve before settling the silver blade into the basket. As Ronin took it, she rose to her feet and offered a gracious bow in return, “Ah, the little samurai is ever so chivalrous. Truly, you do spoil me.”

She smiled generously then motioned towards the snowy manor, nothing more than a lavish roof beyond the twisting branches. “Now come, let us keep the cold away with some tea. we shall discuss this in my parlour. I insist. Hina is in need of practice.”

The woman lead the way, stepping lightly on the snow so as to not disturb it.

Ronin chuckled to Ichika’s remarks on being the one who should’ve offered the tea. He took the basket from the woman with grace. When she mentioned that he spoiled her, no response came from the humble man yet beneath his helmet was a blushing samurai.

“It is only right. Beautiful maiden as yourself allowing me to train in such a peaceful garden. You’ve given me nothing but the highest kindness. Only right I return it.”

Once Ichika started walking towards the building Ronin followed, though his steps weren’t as soft and gentle compared to Ichika’s.

When they arrived, Hina was waiting at the door. She gave the two an anxious glance then bowed stiffly, “Lady Ichika… Master Ronin. I have some water boiling… m-may I prepare you some tea?”

Ronin bowed back to Hina in pure respect regardless of his rank. “Please, it’d be an honor to taste whatever you come up with.”

“That would be most lovely, my dear. You may use the winter root, it should be cured by now. Do be careful with it, they are a fickle plant to nurture. If you waste these I might not taste it again for another year.”

The girl stiffened at the request, her face going pale. She bowed again before squeaking out a “Yes, my lady” and scurrying off to the kitchen. Ichika smiled, a mischievous glint in her eye before ushering Ronin into the manor.

Once they found their way into the manor Ronin placed the basket wherever Ichika pointed him to. Sitting on his legs which were bent he gently placed his sheathed blades down on the floor.

“I see Hina is working hard as your apprentice. A kind spirit.”

“Indeed, a promising bud waiting to blossom. Yet we did not come here to fawn over the little thing, now did we. Speak, sweet samurai, bare your heart to me.”

“I wanted to speak with you on Jon’s current wanting in trusting these summoned. Lately I’ve been plagued with guilt allowing one of our own fall to the hands of one of them. Now even resting with them as if they’re one of us, yet not proving themselves worthy. It’s a stretch to say.” He said calmly. “Something in the wind lately has been giving me a bad feeling yet I do not know what.”

Ichika sat down across from the samurai and let out a soft sigh, “The children of SIN have been causing quite the commotion. I can understand your conflicted feelings, perhaps better than most. My heart wept when I heard of the fate of our dear Doroteya. It was even more difficult to allow their murderer into my halls.” The woman ran her fingers through her long, silky hair, thinking for a moment. “Ah, did you know I once met a curious man who told me that we do not make peace with our friends. Sometimes, we must eat with those we would much rather see dead… to put past grievances aside for a chance at peace.”

Looking at the palm of his hand as Ichika spoke he placed it back on his leg releasing a soft sigh. As she spoke of potential advice to the young samurai he listened intently. “My mother told me once, “you can forgive though you should never forget”. “Yet it feels as if I cannot forgive nor forget. No matter how much I’ve meditated the shift in my inner peace continues to take its course. I do not seek revenge. It is against my will to do such a grievous act. Though I fear they’re not the only ones. I feel there are more. That we have yet got wift of. This is our home and I wish to protect it, I will heed your words of advice and try to understand them, with my eyes watching them. I will not allow another to fall.”

“Perhaps they are not alone, perhaps they are. Yet do not be too swift in your judgment, sweet samurai, or it will cloud your eyes. Every saint has a past, and every sinner a future.”

A soft knock came from the side of the door. Hina stood outside, holding a tray of fresh tea. She stood quietly, her face red, until Ichika beckoned her in with a smile, “Ah, what perfect timing my dear. Ronin, you must try this brew. It is quite rare and a lavish delicacy.”

Ronin took his helmet off revealing his face to the two women. Ronin took a cup and nodded his head in response. Taking a sip of tea Ronin’s face was shocked and he took two more sips of the rich in flavor tea.

=Samurai’s Week=
​

Another day had gone by and Ronin sat on top of the fortress in a meditating stance focusing on his inner self. During these times he spoke to his sword’s spirits bonding with them and giving them the attention they craved from him. Not once did Ronin ever forget to greet his swords. Many saw them as mere weapons as Ronin knew the truth of them, they were blessed blades. Spirits that were bestowed on him from birth.

Taking a calming deep breath Ronin wondered if it was true what he heard of summoned helping Nortestra from complete decimation. Although he had no bad experiences with the country, the way they “enslaved” mollug wasn’t right. Whatever fate had tried to give them, they were saved by SIN’s hand. The last summoning that occurred 200 years ago was only a myth or a legend in his clan. Being able to live in an era of another summoning was an honor, but felt like a curse as well.

Taking another calming breath, Ronin got up jumping down to the snow, staring off into the deep forest. The hordes of demons had suddenly disappeared, but where have they come from? This event was truly new, as if they’re arrival was correlated with SIN’s summoning.

Today Ronin wore a cloak over his armor. It was quite breezy outside. He went out on a hunt to retrieve some rich in flavor meat for himself and the others to feast upon. They had all worked hard and earned well flavored food today.

—


Another day passed, this week felt like it was going by quickly. Ronin’s messenger hawk had returned which made him excited. His family had returned a letter. Unraveling the piece of paper that was attached to the hawk it flew off back out the window.

“Do be careful young owlboar, you must continue balancing the shifts in nature of the fortress. Your mother loves you dearly and hopes for your speedy return. Love momma!~”

“Yo big brother! Tell Lady Ichika, old man jon, and Isekare I said hello! Is my girlfriend Hina doing well?! I hope you’re keeping your eyes off her! Joking! I miss you brother, stay safe out there! - Ps. You’re cool little brother!”

Ronin smiled, folding the letter placing it in a drawer. Placing his helmet over his head he let out a soft sigh remembering his duty in training his men. Today Ronin wanted to relax, he’s been working hard all week even after the invasion. Something was off about the sudden disappearance.

=Departure of Summoned=
Interactions: Orobo Khaoul & Hecate
Around: Generals
​

The day had come and the habitants of Solomen Fortress all stood in attendance to the summoned that decided to bestow on a journey through the snowy lands. It would be a rather dangerous journey due to these lands being rather unforgiving and harsh to those with low will.

Ronin had no kind words to give so he rather held his tongue. He didn’t want to share any ill intent towards the otherworlders. He stayed silent while listening to the others speak waiting for any orders to be passed to him.

For assistance along with the troops that accompanied the summoned, Ronin snapped his fingers twice. Two warriors landed in front of him. One was Lancelot the non magic using swordsman. The second was a trusted navigator, he hoped her leaving to the outside world would help with her fears of the monsters that lurked within.

Ronin took a step forward to Orobo. “I will have two of my trusted members a part of my elite squad to aid you on your journey. Lancelot.”

Lancelot took a bow in respect, taking a step forward and stood beside Ronin. “Greetings pleasure to accompany you.”

“And Sana.”

Sana bowed before standing next to Ronin still shy so she didn’t say anything compared to Lancelot. She looked at Orobo and was almost terrified of Khaoul, this demon was the reason for Doroteya senpai’s death. She looked at the towering demon as if she saw a ghost and her soul left her body. Both candidates had baggage along with them. Prepared for the journey ahead of them.

Ronin looked at both of them nodding and turned, walking back to Lady Ichika’s side. Standing calmly.

 

[Solirus]

Golem​

Target is still unmoving… target remains inconclusive… target…
…
…
…
…
…

Target lost… Target no longer spotted…

Scanning… Error

Error detected, Commencing diagnostics…

Diagnostics complete… problem identified… repairs required, commence repairs?

UE required, unable to commence repairs…

…

Entering travelling mode… Determining magnetic field of planet…

Optimal path? No sufficient data to determine the best path…

…

Path selected… Advancing towards direction

…


Golem turned around from staring at an empty crater turning to face directly south west and began marching in the direction avoiding the environment around it.

Mentions: Juju (?)

 

[Solirus]

It was a cold environment as Czar normally is, there were mountains and cliffs nearby almost invisible to the human eye thanks to the overabundance of snow covering everything. In the snow a growl could be heard. A bear of massive proportions had just recently taken down a prey while it was only visible thanks to the blood splattered on it’s white fur. The bear munched on its prey, tearing flesh and breaking its bones, mostly unaware of its surroundings.

“There you are you shit” a voice said quietly mostly drowned by the munching of the bear.

At that moment the bear stopped eating almost as if it were frozen.

“Come on, keep eating you bastard” the voice said again quietly, not before the bear moved it’s head up to look around, before looking back down and resuming his munching.

In that moment a white figure jumped out from hiding with the bear reacting instantly as it hadn’t dropped it’s guard, it struck the white figure with it’s palms sending it flying back but not before the whitefigure left something behind, the rotting and mangled bits of a dead animal sprayed onto the nose of the bear, making its nose useless for the time being as the smell of rotting bits would drown out any other smell for the bear.

The whitefigure quickly blended back into the snow and remained hidden from the bear which was now more visibly alert. The bear growled at first before returning to being quiet trying to scratch the smell out of his nose with no success quickly moving it’s head up to try and find the aggressor with no luck.

It slowly became quiet, the bear remained still, with only the wind being heard, the wind bringing along more snow began covering the environment, covering the dead dear, the blood marks, and the bear before eventually it was all white and quiet.

None wanted to make the first move, it was a blind standstill.

…

…

…

…

The man leaped from his hiding spot with his sword out striking at where the bear had previously stood only to realize he hit nothing, quickly being met by a powerful attack from the bear sending him flying back, breaking some bones and causing major bleeding.

“FUCKING CLEVER AREN’T WE!!!” Ullis shouted as he stumbled back up again somehow still holding onto his sword. Ullis’s vision was blurry still and the white of the snow made it difficult to find the bear even for its size, in contrast Ullis was now a clear red target with the frost of the air entering his body and slowly freezing him.

Ullis wasted no time and entered a defensive stance, the bear might not be able to smell him, but he now stood out from the snow while the bear remained hidden, if he got hit again with such force Ullis would be in even bigger trouble. In an instant the bear roared with immense power stunning Ullis for a second before it charged in causing the ground to shake. Ullis barely recovered and now knowing where the bear was coming from leaped into the air hoping to dodge the bears incoming attack and land on its head, but the bear didn’t come, instead the bear stopped for a second and swatted Ullis from the air like a fly sending him once more flying away, sending his sword flying into a nearby tree.

Having received a very strong hit, Ullis tumbled through the ground before stopping as his bleeding increased and most of his bones remained shattered. Ullis lay down motionless as the bear now slowly approached the seemingly dying Ullis. He tried crawling away as he kept his right arm hidden waiting for the bear to get closer. The bear stopped moving in hesitation but resumed seeing Ullis as another meal. The bear moved closer and closer until Ullis turned around with his right arm turned that of a Netherwalked looking to stab the bear in the face. The bear however had expected such an attack and moved it’s head far back enough to avoid the attack before moving back into chomp Ullis’s arm off swallowing it instantly.

“AAGGGGHHHHH” Ullis screamed in pain as the bear opened its mouth again to reach in for another bite. However before the bear could finish off Ullis, smoke began coming out of the bear and in the next second fire erupted from the mouth and nostril of the bear, Ullis dragging himself back to avoid the fire. The bear screamed in pain before he exploded in a violent ball of fire, chunks of burnt flesh now falling from the sky. Ullis quickly reached out to one of the pieces and flesh and began eating it, his bones repaired themselves, the skin began reattaching and Ullis quickly regrew his arm, not only that, he now felt reinvigorated feeling a boost in his strength and surprisingly mana…

Ullis took a deep breath and sighed, walking towards his sword stuck on a sword and pulling it out and sheathing it. He took one glance at the mess that used to be the giant bear. “Well… so much for a bear steak… ” he looked back at his right arm now with no clothing and exposed to the cold of Czar. “... I need new attire...” he commented before looking back up and assessing his surroundings… “Now where the fuck am I?!”

​

 

[Judge_Vulxray]

Midyiel; The Divine Cleric
Northern Czarsnikei
​

Midyiel awakened in the middle of the frozen tundra, partially confused as to how she had appeared to arrive at her destination. Fortunately for her, the cold weather had little effect on her. She had a vague recollection of what she had been doing before... She remembered the fight in the city ground and helping them defend the city as best she could, but after that her memory went hazy. She could slightly piece together flashes of moments ranging from her cutting down enemies and then flying over miles of land. She also remembered her wings giving out and her barreling towards the ground. But try as she might she couldn't remember much else of what she might have done.

She stood up from where she was in the snow and stretched her wings. Or at least, she tried to. She winced as her right wing didn't fully extend, and causing excruciating pain, making her slightly cry out if she tried to push it any further.

"It appears as though I've injured myself in my fall... Fortunately for me, it should heal up in due time, but for now it appears as though flying is out of the question..."

She then decided the safest option would be to fold her wings, using her left to shield and hold her right as best she could before she looked around her location. She noticed that the ditch created by her crash in the snow was still visible, and using it as a reference point she figured out what direction she had been flying from. With little else to do, she decided that the best course of action would be to try and head back in that direction, hoping that she may be Abe to find out just where she ended up, and what happened to the city she had been trying to protect. And so, with the snow-laden wind flowing against her hair, she journeyed back, ever hopeful that she would come across someone else, sooner, rather than later.

 

[Pseudo-nim]

Aki Himeragi
Mentions: Snackofthefuture ​

While the rest of the Summoned mingled or left for greener pastures, the young Oni simply took the bottle of Vodka offered and wrapped her belt around it. She preferred gourds all things considered, but perhaps in the near future, she'll commission such a thing. For now, she was content in listening on the information SIN was providing. It was quite essential in her mind that learning from the self proclaimed god of this world and its current events would help her in the long run. Part of being an instructor for the younger generation within the Himeragi was dedicated to giving information in order for her students to analyze, comprehend, then execute. While never one to care much about logistics, she knew the importance of any information given when in an unknown place, or in this case, world.

So she listened with a stoic gaze, careful to listen in his words. She may not necessarily dislike SIN, the impressions he's given to her meant that some words can be twisted in other ways. Gods were fickle beings, at least seeing how slovenly SIN conducted himself, but then again, the pantheon in her world was quite diverse and chaotic in its own ways. Rarely did the divine ever interrupt the actions of the mortal races, but divine intervention wasn't as uncommon as many would think. Regardless, it was better to err in the side of caution when interacting with those of power.

Aki had instructed her weapon to shrink for the time being, taking the form of a needle that she slipped into the pocket lined in her sleeve. There was little need for her to be armed at the moment, unless someone decides to be aggressive against her, where Satori could transform to any weapon she required. Still, she relied on aggression only when her life or those of in her protection were in danger. Given the lack of either at the moment, she saw no reason to arm herself, especially since she was quite deadly even without a weapon.