(Event) Dawn of Preparation | Page 2

The armored person watched on as the Great Hall started to swell with many different people. First of them was one of his partners in the hunt for Garuda, name Cain Darlite. He seemed quite chummy with the royalty of Tertoria, which should be good for the mission to hunt down Titanius. And then there were two more people called into the Great Hall, and by the way they dress and conduct, they were possibly adventurers of the highest level available in Astorea, much like Cain. There was also his former commander Aalam Abungu, who was now appointed a noble of Astorea. And then suddenly he felt quite lonely.

Within this atmosphere where legends, nobles and heroes converge, where would a simple guard like him fit in? Was he even needed here? Should he go back to his post, abandoning all his desire to know something more about this Titanius? Oh non, just like what Zeus always said. Wasn't he the person who accompanied the Duke in his investigations that led to the discovery of Titanius? No, that might be just a job.

He was still wondering about his place in the assembly, standing alone while others talked with each other, when, from the slit of his helmet, he saw the woman he had accompanied now looking out from a window in the hall, watching the scenery. The armored man then moved towards the woman, and then said, his voice being muffled by the helmet he was wearing, "It's really nice to see a new place, right?" He then slid the candy stick to the slit for another bite, and after withdrawing it, he then continued, "It's like a breath of fresh air from where I am accustomed to. That's how I feel when I see a new place. From Falderen, then Astorea, then Yladia. Well I had been a traveler myself before, but you can say I took an arrow in the knee." A soft self-depreciating laugh was then heard from beneath the helmet.

@Tertoria

 

Great Hall

“My condolences,” Cain said, before a more daredevilish grin emerged, “But it’s not to worry, Maximilian. With the combined force of Tertoria and Astorea, we shall tear out this lesion and expose it to the inexorable flames of the Sun. I may not be a star seer or a weaver of fates, but mark my words: naught but righteous ruination awaits that wretched beast.”

The midnight haired muse slapped the general on the back then, dispelling the war-like atmosphere that was building. “So when that does happen, feel free to visit more often. We may not be as wealthy, but if nothing else, Astorea’s chockful of rustic charm!”

As Priscilla spoke up, however, Cain was more than willing to swivel around. Seated as she was, the bard deigned to kneel down, remaining eye-level with the aristocratic lady without opting to take a seat for himself. Equal once more, but deferential to her status as one who may sit upon this gathering of legends. He smiled at her own praise, that little boost in ego pleasant even if he had plenty to spare.

“Though I’d be remiss to disrupt the beginning of this meeting with a rousing vocalization, I am more than happy to share a verse or two with a fellow artist, especially one such as yourself, Lady Flanst. If you would excuse me for a second…”

It wasn’t going to be his usual edgy battle songs. It was going to be something softer, but not something romantic. Some bitter, with a tension and regret to it. Something to sober up, rather than sweep away. He took a breath, and then, softly enough so that others were not disturbed, but loud enough that the fair lady could enjoy the full breadth of his emotion and skill, he sang.

“Day fades to black, light takes its last sigh
My heart, so cold, has lost its life
It beats, humming, it resonates
I hate the sound, the noise I can't take.”​

The final word hung into the air, Cain actively holding himself back from launching into the powerful chorus, before the shadows in his eyes disappeared, replaced with a bright smile. “I’m sure there are maestros within your lands that hold greater skill than I,” he said, “But if you would like to hear the rest of the song, I would be more than happy to offer up my songcraft for a night or two.”

A pause. A heartbeat. His ears weren’t dull enough that he couldn’t catch the exchange between the two younger nobility within the Hall. Dissonance, Star Maiden, Vale, Ella, Saya, Des.

“In the meantime though, Lady Flanst, could I trouble you with introducing me to the rest of the nobility that have congregated here? As a battlefield bard, I’ve had few chances to catch hearsay of others when stories of your own boundless generosity and wit drown them out oh so easily, so I would greatly appreciate it if you could enlighten me as to their identities?”
@Tertoria

 

Area Great Hall

Aalam was watching the room and taking note of everyone that had permission to enter it seemed that Cain talked his way through the door. And a few of the others were able to make it through based on the fact that there was knowledge they had on this thing that was trying to kill them. Well, that was good at least they wouldn’t be going into this thing blind. That never ended well and if this creature were as much as a threat as he believed then, the kingdom would need the help. Popping a bottle of wine that he had stolen from one of the waitresses as they walked the room, it was times like this that he loved stealth. Taking a whiff of the liquid, it was one of the lighter drinks it was more like a cinder than wine really, there hardly was any alcohol maybe around two percent for the bottle. Replacing it with an empty bottle popping the cork as he refilled his cup, well this was a nice blend. However, it would be impolite for him to sit in a corner after he was a baron now and that means had to mingle. Well damn, this was going to be a pain in his ass but when in Rome, you do as the Romans. This was one of those times that he would have to be a roman it seemed, well might well get those other with.

Cain was already talking up a storm with the Flanst party that was not unexpected they did work a job with the group a little while back, and well that man would remember him. Easier to get a foot in the door there, smart man, it would be nice to see if he would be able just to do the job this time. This was going to require more cup well these more seemed to be goblets if anything else, he would only need three after all. The Krelian party was busy in conversation with the duke, so there was no need for him to get involved there. But then again he knew his duke and the man was a bit odd, and it seemed either the lord wife or servant might be a bitch. So he was going to avoid that for now as there was two other woman? Girls? In the room and it seems no one had talked to one of them as of yet lucky him if nothing else it gave him something to do. However, it seemed that his want to drink would win out over his want to socialize so he popped the cork of the bottle made himself comfortable in his corner and started to drink. If someone needed him they could need him later.

 

Area Entrance Hall

The hall was already alive with activity by the time Chaol arrived. War, and even the threat of it, had a way of breathing life into an otherwise dormant population. In truth, the young man could not recall ever being among so many players, all in one place, all with one purpose. This, he supposed, was what preparing for a large-scale quest was like. He, however, had never partaken in such activities. Rather, Chaol had focused his efforts on cozying up to the established NPCs within the world itself. When he had first joined the game, no mere player would help him accomplish his goal. Now, however, that was beginning to change.

The dark-haired aristocrat swept into the Entrance Hall with a subdued kind of grace. His perfectly tailored suit, a gift from the industrialist Regis Godfrey, gave the impression of impossible wealth. His long, billowing black cloak spoke of power, and a little mystery. And the slight smirk on his lips? Well, that was simply the confidence that was ingrained within Chaol. He did not think that he could accomplish whatever he wanted, he knew that he could. Such self-assurance was dangerous.

But his goals were not reached easily, or in many cases, quickly. Chaol understood that all things worth having took work, and he was not adverse to digging in. In fact, it was the thrill of the hunt that excited him the most.

As such, his violet eyes were nearly blazing with exhilaration as he slowed before the head maid. He had been observing the room from the doorway, and had noticed the commanding way in which she controlled the room. She, Chaol knew, was in a position of power. If anyone could get him a meeting with Roland Rutledge, she could.

"Excuse me, miss." He offered a warm, welcoming smile. "My name is Chaol, and I am here on behalf of Mister Regis Godfrey. He and I were both hoping that I might have a quick audience with Mister Rutledge. My employer believes that he might be of some use in the coming war."

It was a lie, of course - Regis Godfrey had no idea that Chaol was even there. But it was a believable enough explanation, and Godfrey's wealth and influence was quite well-known. Besides, Chaol's smile was usually convincing enough.

@Roland Rutledge

 

Area Great Hall

Mizuki nodded towards the Head Maid in gratitude when she allowed them to pass before following @Seigi into the Great Hall where the actual meeting would be held. She wasn't sure what she would have done if the woman had said no, since waiting outside for the nobles to decide on what to do would have felt pointless, but not participating in the fight against Titanius was also undesirable.

Admittedly the fact that Seigi had a butler guiding her was quite the sight.

"I did yes, or at least a part of it. And I didn't die, mostly because before the thing could focus its full attention on us we were already retreating really quickly."

Not the most honourable or courageous thing to do, but it had already taken a mad rush to destroy one tentacle and back then it had looked like the thing was capable of creating hundreds of the tendrils, so staying would have been a fool's errand.

Before she could elaborate further they already arrived in the Great Hall, and Seigi got busy trying to lose the butler who was supposed to act as her chaperon. Mizuki watched the little dance between the two before Seigi ran off, then shrugged and went her own way. There weren't too many people in this room, although almost every single person present was remarkable enough that they still managed to fill up the space in a manner of speaking. One of her ears twitched as she heard someone singing faintly, the Caenis turning her head to see the well-known Cain singing to one of the noblewomen. She could approach, but first she had to notify the man in charge of this event so he wouldn't think that she had just snuck in.

She gave the butler a sympathetic smile as she followed him towards where Roland was standing. The host was already approached by some of the foreigners, leaving Mizuki waiting as to not disrupt the conversation. She didn't want to get involved in politics if it could be avoided, and she wasn't so silly as to provoke a diplomatic incident. Instead she looked at the butler (@Roland Rutledge), trying to console him somewhat.

"I believe that as long as you inform your lord that Seigi is present you won't have to keep following her around. She's a lively one but she's not stupid."

Looking over towards where Seigi had gone she saw that the redheaded heroine had already engaged one of the other foreigners, leaving Mizuki to wonder if she wasn't being overly optimistic before shrugging again and turning back towards Roland and the butler. In the back of her head she wondered what the head maid had meant. Was Roland known for being into hunters or Caenii?

 

Area Great Hall

​

Flanst

Priscilla raised a brow and nodded her head with approval. It was a man of worth that few others could match. He was able to survive a battle with that lowly Caenis that was screaming the name Satar as well. A Arbiter of less favorable repute. Strong and cultured. One to keep a eye on for certain. Priscilla was greatly in need of some good new models as well.

Taking a few mental notes. Lady Flanst rose from her seat and gestured towards where Saya was.

But of course. I do not allow such talent to go unrewarded. Faulkner, keep my seat from being contaminated by anyone else. I don't need to get sick. Now... Sir Darlite, follow me.

Leaving Max behind to literally watch her chair. Priscilla gestured with a disgusted look at Krelian's small group hovering around Roland. Her disdain for the man not at all veiled.

That man there is Lord Judas Krelian. As you can tell just by his dress and his accompaniment. He is a lesser noble that is better not associating yourself with. He dabbles in arts we do not approve of in in my land. How he even has retained his status is a mystery to me. Thankfully I rarely have to deal with him. His only reason for being here is because he came up with the solution to Titanius... somehow or other.

With that out of the way. Flanst guided him to Saya without asking whether she was free to chat.

Hohohoho! This is the second in command of Tertus Ellania Royal Guard. The defenders of the Primordial Capital. She is one of the few that outclass me if simply because of her deeds. Lady Saya, also is one who works often with the Star Maiden there. Des Weiss. Most of Tertoria's years of peace and stability is brought about by their presence and slaying of countless beasts that you've likely never even heard of.. Hohoho! Saya, why don't you tell Sir Darlite here of all the times you have slain Titanius? Hohohohoho! She is still not a perfect lady of course!

Tertus Ellania

Oh yeah, long time no see! Hahahaha! Wait... like... come again?!

Saya gave a confused look at the redish orangish haired girl that just ran up and declared to know her. Seeing the butler head off and a...a... wow. A Caenis. This was the east for sure. How rare was that to see? This Seigi person was likely trying to just have a reason to be here. So... maybe just play along? She didn't seem dangerous.

Hahaha...haha. Yea! Seigi Ling Ling of the something something!

Grabbing the girl by the arm and pulling her away a little. Saya spoke softer with a stern look.

I don't know who you are, but like, you'll be fine since I covered for you okay? This is a pretty serious thing going down and while we will need help... I suppose.... I would like to know why someone who wasn't invited snuck in? Please don't say it was just cause you were like, curious or something?

Mizuki the Caenis's words finally hit Saya's ears and it became more clear. Seigi here had fought Titanius? She was lucky to get out alive and now wanted to fight it again?! Sigh.... the words 'she's not stupid' might not be the best fit.

I see now.

She nodded and reached out a hand to Mizuki.

Heya! I haven't seen a Caenis in a long time. Nice to meet you, I'm Saya. I'm not sure I've heard everything clearly but you fought Titanius and lived? Along with... Seigi here? That means you at least know kinda what you're getting into by being here. I guess you both are like, here to fight and all... Right?

Saya's face became depressed before she patted Seigi on the back lightly. The depressed look vanished when she spoke again.

I'd like to say my usual. That you don't have to anything because I'm there but I've been told that I won't like, be able to solo this time. I'll carry the weight though so no worries. It's what I'm good at.

The Guardian Angel recognized the kind of tone Seigi in particular had and the way she had introduced herself. Yet she made no comment about it for now. That kind of attitude was fine to a degree. Something told Saya this girl was no living legend though to have to sneak in and fool a butler.

It was then that a man was brought over by Priscilla. How rude... she just cuts right in and starts blabbing. Sigh. As usual throwing out all this praise and so on.

Uh... not a perfect lady? Are you like, complimenting me or not? Jeez. ...Uh... hi. Yes I'm Saya... Mr.Darlite?.

Weiss

Weiss smiled at the words of Bradwynne. The young man had decided to speak to her. Small talk of course. Yet, that was a first step. Des rarely went to another. She usually waited for them to speak to her. He used what was obviously a joke and chuckled to himself. Interesting.

Ja...

The Star Maiden's eyes shifted towards him and she chuckled softly behind her hand, before returning it gently to the small bird.

Hmhm, don't hide your face behind a mask. I'm sure you're a very gut aussehend Junge. Let me see who that adventurer that has seen so much is!

Des Weiss would wait to see if he complied. Either way she would analyze him with eyes that had a enchanting aura to them. It was funny to ask for a face when her look seemed to pierce right through the armor., right through the flesh, right into the heart and beyond.

The outside of Tertoria is a grand place, ja. I have been out here before. A few times. Much farther too. The world is a harsh place. You've likely taken worse than a arrow I'm sure.

She lifted her finger slightly and the bird flew off into the sky.

A small bird like that can only fly by beating against the wind and then using it to glide to it's destination. Often unknown to even itself. A bird that can fly and be free is truly...

Schön.

A fragile creature often doesn't know what to do in a world constructed like ours. As Star Maiden, I'm the one who must keep peace and prosperity of many. I do everything I can to protect innocent and pure life like that. Dissonance like Titanius that seek only to destroy what I maintain for Ella. There is nothing more gemein.

She laughed and smiled at Brad. He likely had so little idea what she was talking about nor what this was about beyond merely fighting a big monster.

Entschuldigung.

Dissonance is what we are fighting you see. I am gifted with the power to uphold Tria and Ella's will in Tertoria. To keep out the böse that tore the world apart so long ago and continues to lurk in the shadow's of man to this day.

I'm afraid what I say is just going over your head my friend, haha! I can explain better for everyone listening soon. Don't worry. Everyone needs to understand the threat here is quite real and not something you all have the proper blessings to fight against adequately.

When she used the word 'everyone', her eyes shifted up into a dark corner of the ceiling. Before finally settling back on Brad and then looking back to the window.

I recommend you do whatever gives you the most peace of mind for now.

@Cain Darlite @Seigi @Ueno Mizuki @Bradwynne

 

One second, The Lady Saya seemed to cover for Seigi just to, in the next second, treat her like a child. Like someone who snuck in here in total hiding! Which.... wasn't totally true! Heck she even pulled her away and gave some kind of scolding! Maybe she wasn't as nice as she looked after all? Though in a sense the Warrior Lady wasn't wrong, BUT Seigi actually wasn't here to play Kindergarten.

"Excuse m-" By then, Mizuki had - by accident or not - backed her up. The Caenis words reaching far into the room(?), just for The Lady Saya to come to more conclusions.

"I never claimed to have fought Titanius itself!" She felt like she had to correct that before this misconception became a lie in itself, though kept silent enough only for The Lady Saya to hear. "But I'm not going to sit idly by while others are dying! I heard enough about it to know it's close enough to similar monstrosities I fought before!" She justified herself. Not in form of a child throwing some fit that felt it got wronged, but with conviction in her eyes that told she'd fight this beast regardless of this meeting or not. "The more everybody knows, the better." She also added.

It was then that Lady Flanst herself butted in with— "Cain!? What are YOU doing here?!" Then again Mizuki wasn't a noble either... actually, Seigi didn't know the Caenis enough to know that, but she certainly didn't seem like the type.

Regardless of the Midnight Haired Muse, the words the stereotypical laughing woman said didn't go unnoticed for the red-hair. "Star Maiden?" She asked. "I... heard about that from Hylia!" And suddenly, everything made sense. Right, the Nobles from another Country. Tertoria. Dissonance. Titanius.

"So it IS more Dissonance!" The red-hair said more to herself than those around her. "I faced those, too! And..." Seigi's eyes now wandered to the white-haired midget Flanst was referring to as she talked about the 'Star Maiden'.

"The German talking girl"— Seigi had seen enough anime to at least recognize the 'origin' of the Words —"is the Star Maiden?! But... they made her sound like an old Legend!" Another look around the room, why weren't THEY here. "So... are Hylia, Kiri, Enea, and Zia coming too?" Then again, what were the chances that these people knew those other four? Actually, pretty high! If they were fighting Dissonance, they had to be part of D.E.S., too. At least the Hero Lady Saya on her side, right?

Actually... yeah... she was like... a... Seigi's head turned red a bit as she looked at The Lady Saya before bowing deeply. "Ohmygosh you're like a real living fantasy Legend?! That's so awesome!" Disregarding the 'serious' part of this meeting just a bit more.

@Tertoria @Cain Darlite

 

As Priscilla spoke, Cain kept his own appearance neutral, shadowing her movements. Judas Krelian, what a…misfortunate name. Cain, Abel, and now Judas. Now where was good ol Abraham and Jesus? Still, it wasn’t his first time hearing of a noble whose arts were taboo and yet still tolerated. Duchess Lucia was still around, after all, even if more than just a small portion of the NPC population are unhappy with having one of Astorea’s nobles being a necromancer. Despite the less than flattering introduction, Cain decided that he’d keep an unbiased eye out to the bespectacled man. If Lord Krelian was the lynchpin who had the key to vanquishing this evil, the Flagbearer would treat him with the respect he deserves, regardless of the Flanst’s disdain.

The second individual to be introduced, however, received a much more positive review. So that was ‘Saya’, one who gained admiration and respect through heroic deeds alone, alongside the albino known by the moniker of ‘Star Maiden’. With a description like that, it sounded almost as if the two of them had singlehandedly brought peace to the land of Tertoria. Frightfully powerful, but it was legends like these that Cain wished to encounter, hm?

Zeus had retired before the Flagbearer could witness the Lightning Wreathed’s might, while the Lunatic Princess had ultimately been more bark, but in this midnight haired youth, perhaps he could find a new story.

“It is indeed a compliment,” Cain said, a friendly smile and a hand offered for a shake, “For a false perfection is mere excuse for stagnation and degradation, while true perfection is but a beautiful ideal. For one defined by heroic deeds, there is nothing more noble than to continuously strive for strength, no? But perhaps that’s too abstract a topic.”

With a bow of his head, the midnight haired muse bowed, “I am Cain Darlite, a muse of some skill. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Saya. I see that you’ve already been acquainted with Seigi?”

He waved at Seigi as well, before turning his attention back to his gracious host. Taking a step to the side, Cain flourished. “A favor for a favor then, Lady Flanst. Allow me to introduce one of the most renowned martial artists within the lands of Astorea,” he began, “This is Seigi Ling Ling, the Sunset Sage of Seven Strikes, a self-made champion of the people and one whose bravery does not wilt even in the face of eldritch monstrosities."

Ahhhh, but he really did want to just start hammering them with questions about Titanius and Dissonance and all that terminology that Seigi spat outttt.

Just gotta be patient…
@Seigi @Tertoria

 

Area Great Hall

Comet received the message from Roland with gratitude. She was pleased with the results of her efforts. After all, there'd been a lot to go through in between the potential of joining his duchy and actually becoming a Viscountess. The special feeling pumped excitement through her body as she headed for his manor. Seemingly important things were to be discussed regarding what to do with Astorea's latest threat. Though anxieties plagued Comet's heart she trekked on. If without input the least she could do, it was decided, would be showing up and taking part of Astorea's defense.

Frankly, being leader appealed to her but wasn't the best position. With such default thinking and decisions following her actions of pleasing the masses rather than dealing with situations head-on like a leader should. She hoped there would be orders to follow. That someone would know how to deal with the "horror" arising Roland mentioned a while ago. Comet could hardly envision the possible monstrosity they'd eventually be forced to face... most likely soon if discussions on preparation were being made at the moment.

The pink-haired woman entered the Great Hall without pausing. She felt awkward being confronted with such a situation where the honorable people before her weren't well known. However, she put on a demeanor of confidence to fit in with the others. Acting happened to be her best talent. "A woman who can take care of herself and slay monsters too? I'd call that the perfect woman any day." Comet shuffled nearby Priscilla and Saya with a smile on her face. Though quickly it seemed to darken upon hearing Weiss speak about what could easily send shivers down her spine. Corruption at it's very best almost taking over her teammates in the field.

"Dissonance again?" she questioned Des Weiss. Her expression twisted into one of displeasure at the thought of the last encounter with the darkness threatening an Eastern Astorean town. "We're in luck, right? You have the natural ability to purify the Dissonance, Lady Weiss. From what I can remember, and going off what Seigi has said. Hylia told us a lot about the Stair Maidens and their origins. You must have some sort of experience dealing with these type of situations."

@Tertoria

 

Area Entrance Hall

Not much had happened since their fight against an unknown foe was brought to an abrupt end. Wherever that thing had come from, it certainly wasn't happy to see one of its many parts was under attack, and they all started to hit back at the group. They barely made it out of the wasteland once known as a beautiful portion of western Astorea, each breath sucked out of them as their health dropped to lethal levels, almost taking their lives in exchange.

But it didn't. Somehow, they made it out of the canyon and put enough distance between themselves and the beast for it to lose its influence over them. Others would've chosen to dedicate their time and resources into finding out what this beast, monster or... magic spell was. Instead, she had put all of her efforts into developing her abilities, finding a way for her magic to work and be capable of manifesting itself every time she called for it.

It had worked, for the most part.

To tell the tale of her partial success, she wore a bandage around her forehead to cover the nasty wound that had taken the woman's left ear away, the runestone she'd got in return from her expedition floating right at her side as she studied yet again the missive held in her hands. Exhaling, she brought the parchment closer to her face, thoughts sobering into a steadier emotion as she inspected its contents, her mind swirling with memories of what had transpired on Naryu Canyon not too many days ago.

''I come on @Alric Stalwart's behalf,'' light words trickled from the white-haired girl's mouth as she stated what her purpose within the Duke's manor was, motionlessly instructing the guard who currently held Alric's invitation in his hand to scan the paper and see whether or not her words were true. ''I was informed there would be a meeting in order to discuss the threat plaguing our lands, a threat which I had the displeasure of encountering myself. Am I wrong?'' With a gentle smile and a silent promise not to cause more trouble than it was necessary, she snatched her paper out of his hands and finally stepped into the entrance hall.

Portia wasn't sure how many times she had been in the very same situation in real life, on a hall full of people from different walks of life, and with the number of familiar faces she could distinguish among them all being counted by the fingers in her hands. If she thought about it hard enough, the resemblance to the Bandit King's meeting prior to his downfall and the threat of the incoming war had a fair amount of coincidences she could point out. As she made the missive disappear in her inventory, though, she hoped this mission wouldn't see the same result as the first one did.

 

Area Entrance Hall

The guards looked at one another before turning back to @Eryl Justice, confusion clearly painted on their faces. As if they were concerned to upset an unknown noble, one spoke, "I'm sorry miss... Justice? You are not on the list of dignitaries...Only the noble families and the entourage may enter, with the only exceptions being who the head maid deems a worthy enough reason to enter into the battle talks." The guard lifted his hand pointing toward Edna, who sat near by.


A moment passed before @Chaol appeared, before the head maid Edna, stating his peace. The old maid clicked her head to the side, however, giving the man an inquisitive stare,

I see, under normal circumstances I would lead you to the master of the house right away, but as I am sure you can see we are in a bit of extenuating circumstances currently. As such I can't, in my right mind, allow you to enter in to broker a trade with the lord at this present time. If you will stand by until the meeting has ended however, I can send you onward.

----------------------------

Area Great Hall

Meanwhile in the great hall the variety of nobles began to crowd the room around Roland. Dressed in armor he stood staring at the map hoping for some sort of plan to spring to mind. However, before one did he was approached by the Krelian family. Roland bowed slightly to Judas, "I am the one honored to have any allies come forth in such a dire time, it is a pleasure to meet both you and your beautiful wife." Turning he spared a glance at Livie, decidedly indifferent to her teeth, "If you don't mind my dear, my staff is not accustomed to such a large delegation." With that he turned to the man, his occupation intrigued him, and he wanted nothing more than to pick his brain. However, he was quickly interrupted by one of his staff who whispered something in his ear while pointing at @Seigi and @Ueno Mizuki who stood some feet away speaking to some of the other nobles.


With a slightly distressed smile, Roland held an apologetic hand towards Krelian, "I'd very much love to speak with you more, but for everyone's sake I think it's time we began." He took a short breath, muttering something as he did so, before clapping his hands loudly. A spell he had cast amplified the noise, as it cascaded through the room, bringing the servants to a halt, and silencing the chatter.

I think it's time we've begun. for those not fully aware we are gathered here today to determine a strategy against a horror that puts both of our nation’s in danger. I have recently been informed that we have two of our kind that have faced the beast directly and lived. Please @Seigi, @Ueno Mizuki step forward, and tell us your first hand accounts...

 

Area Outer Courtyard

Bandits... how droll. How predictable. The elven man moved towards the manor which belonged to a man who styled himself 'Duke' of the realm, with permission of yet another man that bore the title of 'King' rather than 'Conquerer' as he ought to. But such things had occurred before Nikephoros had begun to take part in the game, and he bore the men no grudge for acquiring such status and power. Indeed, he respected, even envied them their positions.

He had sought to do the same by working in tandem with some criminals when he had first joined the world of Terrasphere, but their limited utility had resulted in ultimate futility, and he had given up such hopes. Bandits. How droll. How predictable.

So he had decided, rather than wallowing in defeat, to simply turn the tables and play the white hat rather than the black hat. If you couldn't beat them, kill them. He would simply swear fealty to this... Duke of the realm... and garner power and prestige that way by proving his worth. Of course there appeared to be some gathering of a sort as person after person arrived, entering the grounds and vanishing into the building for some unknown purpose. Whatever it was, it was clearly an event that he himself had not been made privy to or invited to attend. As such, he would do the respectful thing, and simply wait beyond the manor grounds. Finding himself a large stone to rest upon, the elven man seated himself and folded his hands neatly upon a knee, waiting. He kept his appearance non-threatening and his attention on the sky and the clouds rather than the building and its visitors, so as not to worry the guards in their stations and appear to be some sort of advanced scout for an enemy force.

 

Area Outer Courtyard

How exciting. Janet had come here expecting to speak to someone of authority (at last—she was practically swooning over the thought) but looking up at the duke’s estate, the eighteen-year-old could feel her knees growing weak instead. It was like something out of a romantic period piece. Why, if she had better clothes, Janet could be like the Cinderella walking up to the prince’s castle, ready to dance the night away.

Of course, no sense of such levity hung about the ramparts. After the Witch Ops failure at Naryu Canyon the brunette had heard nobles from all around the game-world were converging on this place to talk about it. Janet also loved to talk, especially when she could complain, so it had seemed fortuitous to attend. Since she couldn’t show up empty-handed, she’d brought a small basket of “homemade” cookies (she’d actually bought them from a shop, she didn’t have the faintest idea how to go about trying to cook in this odd game. How Iván did it and made a profit was a mystery.)

As Janet approached, determined to argue her case and win the right to enter into the great hall, she realized she recognized the bald man seated upon a stone in the outer courtyard. “Nikephoros,” Janet said as she drew close, sounding neither pleased nor displeased. She thought she’d rather forget their interaction in the mountains than linger on it, but she still had to steel herself to talk to him. “Are you waiting to get in as well?” She eyed him over, noting (a little smugly to herself) that he was empty-handed. No wonder they’d turned him away. “I expect the Duke will be very interested in my first-hand account of—o-oh my gosh.”

The eighteen-year-old dropped her basket of cookies, which thankfully landed right-side-up on the cobblestones, and covered her mouth with her hands. “A-are you—I can’t believe I didn’t notice this before—you’re—” Her mind was suddenly putting images together—a pirate ship with a strange crew and a teenage main lead, but the captain was an older man, weathered and wise, and his name was—“Captain Dandelion? U-um.”

Janet caught herself, stuttering as she realized what a ridiculous thing that was to say. Her face began to flush. Of course it wasn’t him, she knew @Nikephoros . But now that she’d made the connection, it was like she couldn’t stop babbling. “I used to watch your… I’m not crazy, am I?” Janet broke off sharply, clasping her hands in front of her. It was as if the (maybe) presence of a TV celebrity had completely knocked the meeting, the nobles, and the Duke out of her mind altogether.

 

Area Great Hall

Suddenly approached by one of the more important guests of this meeting, the woman with the very impressive sword, Mizuki was caught off guard for a moment before smiling and shaking the woman's hand. She appeared to be quite the friendly person, making her very approachable especially since she took the initiative with someone unimportant like Mizuki herself.

"Not surprising, given how many prefer to stay up in the mountains. I'm Ueno Mizuki, it's nice to meet you Saya. And yes, we are."

It was clear that Saya (@Tertoria) wasn't too enthsuiastic about the idea of people volunteering to fight Titanius. Not surprising, given just how much of a threat it was. However MIzuki wasn't going to be dissuaded so easily, so she waited for Saya to finish before replying, folding her arms as she listened and nodded. Together with people mentioning this Dissonance thing which Mizuki hadn't heard about she had a lot to say and ask, but it looked like @Roland Rutledge wanted to get the meeting started, asking Seigi and herself to tell their story. Mizuki coughed before stepping forward, feeling the metaphorical spotlight on herself.

"As you all know a large portion of Western Astorea has faded, all colour and life drained from it. Together with a friend of mine I went to find the source of it all. As the rumours say there appears to be little to no life left in that area: I certainly didn't encounter anything, intelligent or not. When we arrived there we first began to look around, but before long our search was interrupted by Titanius.

In the distance, from the canyon, a large figure obscured by a strange shadow-like smoke rose up, and at the same time numerous tentacles, a vivid purple and taller than towers, burst through the ground. While originating from the canyon the amount quickly multiplied until they must have covered several square miles. One such tentacle showed up right in front of us, and immediately tried to crush us. With a lot of effort we managed to eliminate that tentacle, at which point it disappeared as if it had never been. Um, the moment the shrouded figure and the tentacles appeared the fading effect on the surroundings strengthened immensely.

While we had dealt with one tentacle we couldn't hope to stand up to hundreds of them and the figure in the distance, which once it had emerged far enough immediately began to drain both our energy and our vitality, so we quickly retreated. I also tried to gauge the shrouded figure's strength, but it was too strong for me to be able to put an accurate number on it.

I'd also note that if we hadn't killed the tentacle before it could strike it would have almost certainly killed us instantly."

 

Area Entrance Hall

Lucia couldn't help a vague sigh as she approached the location, the duchy was certainly different from her own, she couldn't help a mellow chuckle at the appearance and procedure. They were players after all weren't they? What was the point in excluding adventurers from an event? It was silly, it was bizarre, she couldn't understand the reasoning particularly when there were people waiting along outside. To the guards, she'd flash a smooth smile before turning down to look at the little girl who's hand she was holding. This little girl had a nice summer's dress on, golden hair that curled down past her butt and a bright and sunny disposition that flashed adorable dimples. Her yellow eyes, while a little abnormal were alight with a child-like wonder. "Alice? Would you like to announce me?" She asked giving the girl's hand a soft squeeze, and almost immediately she reacted with a soft step towards the guards, presenting Lucia's papers.

"This is Miss Mierz, please make way." The little girl spoke, flashing white teeth and tilting her head adorably. This little girl, at least for those who'd recognize her clothing such as @Aalam Abungu that the monstrous Abomination had developed it's own face in the time Lucia'd been away, it even acted 'human' a bit more, though it's speech was still curt and unpracticed. Nodding, glad that Alice had made some progress, she could only look at those abandoned and wayward players with a burdened sigh. If it had been her... well, she could only say she would have done things different. "This one is with me too, we're allowed an entourage yes?" She spoke gesturing to @Eryl Justice and reaching out for the woman with her free hand, trying to help bring someone in who was trying to do some good. After all there was no reason to exclude the willing and hopeful.

Trying to enter a bit deeper within, finding @Madison Freebird as well, she flashed a smile waving towards her as well. "Madison, why not just come with me? You remember Alice from the mission with Zeus right?" Lucia introduced the little girl once more who gave an adorable curtsy. "Hello~" The childish voice came out, unlike the usual programmed and bland childlike voice, the alert youth's figure was already worlds apart from how it had been. Lucia's undead had clearly taken another step forward since that time. Making an effort to join the main group to listen to the tale, she joined the others to hear the situation out.