Why Are You Doing This?

Location: Kora Mandira
Region: Q3

I remain at the Kora Garha with Adrian as he conducts his meeting with the village and tribal leaders of the region surrounding Kora, both Q2 to the north where Josa is coming along nicely as well as Q4 & R4 regions where I am anticipating an escalation of matters. A recent act of aggression in the southern regions has lead Adrian to formulate a plan to remove the threats from that region. The meeting here is an attempt to reach a peaceful solution in order to protect the weaker villages. Settozai, Serani, and Samud all sit in for this meeting as well. Listening to the back and forth, I say nothing, but I hear myself mentioned quite often in this. I feel a new arrival outside of the room and close my eyes while my mind reaches out to theirs.

"You bring a report?"
Operative: "Yes, Master. News from the northern regions of the Desert Lands. We have confirmed that there is in fact a new demon gaining territory in the Q11 region. He actually controls all of that region, Master. I also have news that he plans to move against the military stronghold in S11."
"This stronghold is a threat to Mandira how?"
Operative: "Not to Mandira, Master. The stronghold belongs to the Lord of Domenance. Its defenses will not hold out against a full siege. If he conquers the stronghold, it will bring a war of higher order beings and put him in a position to solidify control of S11 to Q11. If he is able to create an army of his people from all three regions that can pose a substantial threat to the order that you are trying to institute here."
"How many men does this demon have?"
Operative: "About two centuria worth (200), but they seem more like bandits and mercenaries than an organized fighting force. What are your orders?"
"Send word to Artillia. Find out if Lord Loki has returned yet. If he has, have him informed of the situation and ask him to meet me here in Kora. I will get word to Domen Yun of the pending attack in case his spies have not informed him of such."

The mental link is broken and the presence vanishes. No more than thirty minutes later, a runner would be dispatched to Artillia from Kora with a message for the Lord of the settlement. Inside the meeting, I look at Samud and speak into his mind. I bring him up to speed and he excuses himself. A column of light forms around him as I teleport him to Domenance to meet with General Paco and ensure that he is aware of the situation. It would be several days until the demon in Q11 is supposed to march on the stronghold, so there is time to prevent such a folly and Samud is given instruction that that is what I plan to do. I rise from my seat at one head of the table and everyone falls silent.

Tired of the bickering, I end the talks swiftly, "Let me make this clear as I am tired of hearing reference that Mandira and Kora are only safe because of me. You have two options and only two options. You will cease your aggressions in the Q4 AND in the R4 regions and you all will coexist or ignore each other. If I return from my trip and hear otherwise, it is not me, but the Mandiran Military that will put an end to your aggression for you. These talks are over. Q2 will remain independent and we will continue our trade as it has led to mutual prosperity between Q2 and Q3. You have your options, gentlemen. Consider them wisely for if you choose chaos, I promise you that you will receive no mercy and no quarter. I would prefer to avoid such a course of action, but your targets are on very good terms with Mandira. Now if you will excuse us, Lord Nygard and I have pressing matters to discuss."

Samud would be arriving shortly in Domenance looking for Paco or Hakim.

700 words

OOC: Valkrist will be joining us later, so we will proceed with the 3 of us until he joins up.

Location: Kora Garha (Q3)

When the room is cleared of all the guests of the meeting, Adrian tells me that he had everything under control. I smirk at my mortal brother in arms and tell him that I am sure he did and he can continue such talks at the banquet. I will not be attending the banquet. "There is a situation in the northern end of the Desert Regions that I will be departing to look after. The First Centuria is already en route to Kora with Valkrist and Aria attending as well. I had planned to have them land south prepared to launch an attack on the R4 region by ship, but apparently that will have to wait. Serani will be returning to Taja tomorrow. When I return, you two will be given time to enjoy each other's company once again. Eka and Cara will be awaiting your arrival. Adrian, make sure that the Sixth Centuria is ready to march as well. I will teleport them to a village that I know in the southwest area of the R10 region. Keep the guests unaware of the mobilization as best as possible. If necessary, I will lead the two Centuria north and we will end the aggression as promised. There seems to be a new demon that has taken up position in the Q11 and is looking to expand his territory. His target is one of Domen's strongholds and I cannot allow that of course. The Cornucopia has already begun establishing trade routes to Domen's villages." Adrian nods, "Your will, Komutan. I take it that is where Samud has gone?" I nod and tell him that I also sent word north to Artillia with one of our fastest runners for that route, so if Sanzon or his Chancellor are present then we will have more allies to rally to the cause."

Location: Domenance (Y8)

Samud arrives and inquires about Paco's whereabouts. Once the location is given, he would make his way in that direction with haste. While Samud is normally one to casually stroll when visiting a village, this was not the time for such leisure. We had no knowledge of the defenses of this stronghold, but my operative telling me that he does not foresee them holding out against a full siege troubles me. Upon reaching Paco, pleasantries would be brief as his focus lies more on notifying the Fairy General of the report I receive in order to hopefully confirm such and to inform the Fairy that I would be arriving later tonight to meet with Domen.

Location: Artillia (R1)

The runner is pleased to witness such a quick spur to action and that Lord Sanzon had returned already. He didn't really know what to expect but the quarter day trek had gone swiftly. Now it would seem that not only was Master Loki coming, but he would be bringing a personal guard force as well. Considering that they didn't quite know where they were going to return to Kora, the messenger already knew that he would be returning. He drinks some water and prepares to lead them south. Hopefully they would be able to keep up with the pace that he tends to set during his travels.

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Location: Artillia (R1) to Kora (Q3)

The runner does not hesitate in proceedings onward. He keeps the pace swift, but at a "normal" person's haste to ensure that they could keep up. The trek takes them along the coast with beautiful scenery, but staying just above the beach to prevent the sand from impeding their movement. It would take a few hours to cover the ground at their rapid pace. Upon reaching the gates of Kora, the archers of the Seventh Centuria, which are still based at Kora until the completion of The Nest fortresses, have bows drawn on the approaching force until they notice the runner. Looking down, one of them announces, "That is Lord Loki. Let them pass and inform the Master." The archers all relax their bows and put their arrows back in their quivers. They return to their patrols and positions.

The North Gate Captain stands ready to greet Sanzon, but informs him that his men will have to remain outside of the city until permission is granted by the Lord or the Master.

Location: Domenance (Y8)

Samud had been pondering how to get into the sky or get the attention of the large cat. He probably would not have noticed Paco and kept going past trying to figure out if this was another riddle, but the large feline creature helped with the matter as did the mini fireworks display around the cat. When they approach, Samud smiles being freed from having to get creative with his means of getting their attention. Paco is in his "normal" cheerful mood, which makes the news even worse to deliver for Samud, but duties must be fulfilled. He responds with a smile, "I wish this was a more pleasant visit, but my Master received a report from one of our agents in the regions north of the Desert Lands..." Samud brings Paco, and Kaelas if the battle cat understands and is paying attention, up to speed on the new demon and his territory as well as his intentions made towards the military stronghold in the S11 region. "My Master also wished me to inform you that he will coming to Domenance to offer his aid in dealing with this situation."

Location: Mandiran Waters (R3 to Q3)

When Valkrist arrives at the docks, Aria is there waiting for him. There are soldiers loading onto the transport boats. When he and Lura arrive, Aria nods to both of them as the Centurion, leader of the First Centuria, reports their status and tells her that they will be riding in the boat with his Deputy and his squad. The Deputy is the second in command of centuria and as such a very skilled warrior. She tells him that that is fine. Aria is accompanied by Iki, who is the enforcer assigned to accompany her around. Aria originally fought her appointment as Aria isn't really a violent person and Iki came to serve her when she was still part of the Khuna Apsara, but they have grown close over the past year or so since her appointment. Iki is always ready to protect her with brutality and skill. "Good morning, you two. Let's get moving. We're stopping by Kora Mandira, the political capital of the regime run by Lord Nygard. Given the magnitude of the day since this is Unveiling of the Kora Grand Hotel North, please maintain control, Valkrist." Iki speaks softly, "Avaza, we should not keep him waiting." Aria nods to the female enforcer from the Katil Hatha.

The boat ride is rather brief since they merely have to cross the channel. When the boat docks at the Port of Kora, the guards are waiting. The soldiers greet each other warmly and with jokes and taunts about which of the Centuria are the strongest or more effective. The Deputy helps Aria out of the boat and the sight of Iki, causes some initial unrest amongst the dock workers. The Khuna Apsara had not been disbanded for all that long and with her being a member of the Katil, the fear had not subsided much. Seeing Aria puts people at ease. A messenger arrives at the port to bring the four of them to me as well as the Centurion.

340/1950

Location: Kora Streets (Q3)

The North Gate Captain looks at Sanzon and smiles at the sight of the lightning display. "They will have to dismount in order to prevent commotion. Also, they will not be allowed in the Kora Garha. No foreign forces, allied or not, are allowed inside the citadel. The scout will take you. Welcome to Kora Mandira, Lord Sanzon." The runner would lead them forward. Coming in thru the North Gate would allow for Sanzon and his guard to witness the celebration for the unveiling of the Kora Grand Hotel North, which is a massive project that provides not just lodging, but entertainment and a place to conduct business as well. The Hotel has its own marketplace of mid to high end goods. There are citizens celebrating, a mixed crowd of merchants, leaders, ambassadors, and warlords from around this northeastern region in attendance. The city patrols are also in full rotation and standby. The group's path opens up rather easily thanks to the guards.

Location: Kora Garha (Q3)

The Kora Garha is a large citadel and estate on an elevated position overlooking the water. The guard concentrated here is heavier. As Sanzon and his detail are brought to the gates, he will find another, smaller, group approaching the gates as well. Aria, in humanoid form, would be leading the smaller group. He would notice the rod like weapon on the left hip of the female accompanying her as well as the long braided ponytail hanging down her back. The armor had changed some, but the demeanor would be familiar to Sanzo. Both messengers inform the guards that they have guests to meet with the Master. The guards recognize both parties and Sanzon would be reminded that his guards would have to remain outside the Kora Garha, but that they are welcomed to enjoy the festivities.

Inside, the group would be led down a long outdoor corridor leading past several administrative and guild buildings and offices as well as the military barracks for the Second Centuria, which is the elite force of Kora charged with the personal protection of the Kora Garha and more specifically Lord Nygard since they are his personally trained centuria. Once they reach the actual citadel itself, the steps leading up to the doors number around fifteen. once the doors open, there is corridor leading into the main foyer of the citadel and they are taken off to the right and up a spiral stairway. The door directly facing them at the end of the hall to the left is the Council Room, where they would find me meeting with Adrian, Serani, Settozai, Sikke, and Adrian's military council. There are maps on the table and pieces have been placed on different locations on the map.

460/2310

Location: Domenance (Y8)

The fairy takes the news fairly well and it would seem that there were guardians of the stronghold in place. Perhaps, the situation was not all that bad after all. Still, precautions needed to be taken and the fairy seemed to be of the same mind. His proposal is a wise and cautious one. The opportunity to avoid bloodshed and hostilities seemed like a highly desirable outcome. Samud considers the plausibility of survival of such an endeavor and he figures that he has nothing to worry about. Should the demon they are planning to meet prove dishonorable, it would be his last folly. Nodding to the fairy, Samud inquires, "How do you propose we get there?" Samud did not know much about fairies, but the little fellow looked quite similar to Dainos and the dark sprite generally picked the method of doing things for others that caused them great discomfort and personal amusement for himself.

Location: Kora Garha (Q3)

Sanzo's arrival is met with a smirk from me. "I, actually, am in no trouble at all. The territory of my new ally has been threatened and so, I prepare to lend aid since the report I received suggests that it is needed. I honestly was not sure if you or your Chancellor would be th ones to receive my message. I might as well get any lingering introductions out of the way now..." Aria steps forward and speaks, "Allow me, Komutan." I smile and nod to her as she gets to show off her herald skills. Addressing Sanzo and the gathered council members, "Lord Sanzon Loki of Artillia, you obviously already know the Komutan, Mukhya. As well as Serani, his Warden Premier. Lord Adrian Nygard, the Komutan's adopted brother, is now Lord and Master of this city, Kora, the political capital of Mandira. Taja is the spiritual capital and training ground alone now. This is Iki ("e-key"), my guardian. The warrior that arrived with me is Valkrist, an ally of Mandira and the Komutan's sparring partner. She is Lura, Valkrist's Priestess and Consort." I nod and look at her, "You forgot someone. Sanzo, this is the Muse of Koutaku-Shi, Aria Serenada Vivace. She holds the position of Avaza, my Voice. Can't argue that her voice is far more appealing to listen to. She is my Herald and has recently taken over duties as Overseer of Diplomacy Guild. Serani, get Valkrist caught up on matters. Take the Council and find solutions for the current state of things in the R4 region. Sanzo & I have some catching up to do. Adrian, you and Aria will remain." They both nod and move closer towards the main map.

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Location: Domenance (Y8)

Samud is intrigued by the reference to a true form for Paco, but pleased that he would simply be riding the large battle cat. Samud wastes no time in mounting the cat and getting into a comfortable position. What he did not expect was that they would actually lift into the sky. It had taken a while for middle aged-elder male to get used to the teleportation that I frequently put him thru but flying was something that he was completely foreign to. As they lift off, Samud finds himself afraid at first, but then quite excited. Listening to the little fairy general chant spells from up ahead, Samud is set to ease in the whole ordeal. He enjoys being able to see the world the way that we with the gift of flight are able to see it. From the skies, things are put in a much different perspective. Samud would simply ride along until they reach their destination. He learns the name of this stronghold as well. It is called Ascension. Good to know for his report back to me as well as the Cornucopia, who have been responsible for updating all of our maps after their travels so we can know when new roads have been built and information about new regions.

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Location: Demon's Territory (Q11)

Samud realizes that this is the second time he has heard the name "Mukesh" and deducts that he must be the Overseer of the stronghold. Nodding his head, he remains silent until they pass over the encampment. Well, that is both good and bad. It would seem that the full extent of the force has not been gathered yet, but the fact that so many had been gathered created cause for concern within the elder diplomat. When the little fairy raises his question, Samud ponders it for a moment and decides that perhaps it would be more polite to land outside of the gates and announce themselves first. "You are correct that it would be best to keep our host relaxed as it is possible that he will be more likely to listen to reason upon doing such. Also, we would not want them to draw the ire of the hell cat here either." Samud smiles and enjoys the weird sensation of the weight drop as they begin their descent. That ride was rather enjoyable for sure.

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Location: Demon's Territory (Q11)

Samud would dismount and adjust his robes to make himself fully presentable. Once the officer approaches to inquire about their identity and their purpose for being there. It was a simple answer, but Samud knew that it was also a delicate one. He obviously can't just say, "Hi I'm Samud and I am from Mandira, you know the place in the northeast that is run by the kami. Oh and this is Paco, he serves the demon that your master is preparing to attack." That would be a foolish thing to do. Instead, Samud simply responds, "I am Samud and I am here to speak with your lord. Could you arrange that for us? I have a proposal to discuss with him that would be of great benefit to your people." Samud does not make reference to Paco in case the fairy wanted to recon the situation first. He glances down at Paco though it would seem like he was looking at Kaelas. His thoughts on the situation would be open so that Paco would know why he was not introduced. Besides, with a personality like his, the fairy was more than capable of introducing himself.

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OOC: Kyro, I won't be online tomorrow, so feel free to NPC Samud as you need tomorrow to move things along. I'll post on Friday before I leave for the weekend.

He had wanted to avoid announcing the truth of who it is that he serves, but it would seem more inevitable he prepares to reply, but Paco speaks into his mind. It did not unsettle him as he is quite to use to mental invasions, but he does rekindle his desire to at least be able to have a warning of a voice preparing to speak into his mind. He looks up at the massive hellcat and nods to where Paco should be positioned. This would further support the coming trick that Paco pulls off, which is currently unknown to Samud.

Samud is admittedly impressed and baffled by the turn of events upon Paco taking over negotiations. The fairy just speaks and the soldier changes his tone? Samud also figures that they may believe that it was the hellcat that had spoken to them. After all, he did reference to taking Kaelas and taming him for their use. That would certainly annoy most mystical creatures. Samud follows along, making sure to remain out of harm's way of being stepped on or the unfortunate victim of troublesome bowels. Now that Paco was taking lead on the endeavor, Samud would remain silent and simply take in the sights. He needed to be able to get a good feel of the defenses, layout, civilian positioning, and any obvious priority targets. All of this would be reported back to me upon Samud's return.

OOC: I'll be posting for Rune tomorrow night.

The interior of the village is not as he would have expected from a demon. The demon himself is not what Samud would have expected either for that matter. Sure, everyone seems to have a thing for threatening to kill everyone, but it kind of goes with the times. Samud gauges that fighting inside the city could prove problematic considering what he has seen here with this promenade seeming like a death trap of a corridor. Though, if used in reverse, it could prove most useful. When called upon to speak, Samud answers with confidence, "Killing me would be an unwise course of action, my lord. My name is Samud Urah and I am a diplomatic emissary of Mandira sent by Mukhya, the Divine Kami and Master of Mandira. My Master's desire is simple. He wishes to avoid a war between higher beings and aid each other rather than clash. He believes that if you would agree not to attack Lord Domen Yun, then other arrangements could be made for you to expand and increase your wealth and power. One instance would be access to our mercantile networks and resource channels. It would be a shame to see your people suffer for lack of compromise, my lord." Samud kept his words brief providing introduction and terms. He glances up to Paco figuring that he was the "yokai" that was spoken of. He was not familiar with this term, so he is not sure if it is a neutral term or an insult of sorts.

Location: Demon's Territory (Q11)

Samud reads the response of the demon as arrogance and disrespect. He does not let it bother him though. The emissary does find himself slightly worried as the demon tells him that he is going to kill them so that they could not warn their masters and Samud thinks to Paco to flee in order to ensure that word would get back. He is completely unaware of the mental spike that the fairy had just endured. He looks around for a weapon of some sorts to wield against the soldiers or the demon. Knowing that even that idea would be futile since Samud is not a fighter and past the years of his prime even if he was. "Only a coward would kill an unarmed diplomat of elder age. I have caused you no injury." The likelihood of his survival was highly unlikely, but if he could buy the fairy or the massive hellcat some time then it would be worth it. His thoughts continue to try and spur the fairy to action. Samud was content with his fate if it meant that he would die in service to his Master. That and he was aware that if he had served me well enough then his death would not be permanent.

Location: Kora Garha
Adrian leaves from the room where Sanzon and I are discussing matters and wrapping up our talks to retrieve the others. The Council is sent to enjoy the festivities of the day while Serani, Valkrist, & Lura would be led back to the Strategy Room where myself, Sanzo, and Aria are all waiting in conversation. Valkrist and Lura had been brought up to speed with what had transpired already. The next step would be to prepare my traveling group for the trip to Domen's capital to offer my aid in this matter.

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Location: Demon Stronghold (Q11)

Samud had resigned him to the afterlife, but the massive hellcat came to his rescue. While he is surprised, he is also relieved that said course of action had occurred. Possessing no gift for magic, Samud is utterly useless in this encounter. He uses his words to avoid such things from happening. When Paco wisely advises a retreat, Samud does not waste time trying to climb up onto Kaelas' back. Instead, he runs and jumps onto her back left paw and grabs a hold of fur for dear life. Make no mistake, Samud did not wish to die, but was willing to sacrifice himself if it would ensure the safety of an entire stronghold and allow for him to be avenged. Hoping to feel the air surround him and the ground leave them, Samud braces himself for a rapid vertical ascent.

Location: Kora Garha

Adrian looks over at Valkrist as they are making their way back down the hall to the Strategy Room. The Hitorinji Guardian and Lord of Kora inquires, "How has your training been progressing, Valkrist? I hear my brother has been out training and traveling with you quite a bit as of late. This mission that you are about to undertake with him... be mindful of what is going on and don't get in over your head. If you do something stupid, I don't want Mukhya risking himself trying to save you. His people need him and I doubt you will be missed all that much." Serani first showed happiness and optimism that Adrian was being kind to Valkrist, but that fades when his true intentions are revealed. The Warden Premier just shakes her head and reaches out to open the door.

The door opens before she can touch it. As Serani enters first, she notices my glowing eyes and nods her head in gratitude. With everyone gathered, I look at Aria and she closes her eyes for a moment in silence. When she opens her eyes, she speaks, with her words soft yet alluring, and beckoning all to listen, "We will be leaving for Domenance now. Adrian, you will remain here to oversee the ceremonies and proceed with plans to build Raksaka. Serani, you will remain to handle the negotiations as the Master's Warden. Speak with Elder Hobin about the Fourth Centuria using his village as their camp while construction takes place. Also, have the Artisans get the new workers assimilated quickly. Once your affairs here are concluded, you will return to Taja until the Master's business to the south is concluded and he returns. Valkrist, Lura may be in danger if she accompanies us on this trip, but she is your responsibility to protect. Lord Loki, try not to offer peace terms to the enemy." Aria looks over at me as I chuckle at that last part. One entertaining thing about her issuing orders for me is that some things are just so much funnier when she says them compared to when I say them. I speak to Adrian telepathically, "I have faith that you will do fine, but I will not show you favoritism. On the contrary, your mistakes will be weighed heavier because you are to rule all of Mandira one day. That is why I hold you to the standard that I do."

Location: Kora Garha to Domenance

Adrian looks at me and nods understandingly before offering a crisp salute as columns of light form around the party that would be heading to Domenance now: myself and Aria, Sanzo, and Valkrist & Lura. Aria shifts into her avian form as the light engulfs her. She takes the form of a large nightingale perched on my shoulder. All five of us would arrive at our destination... the skies above Domenance. I would remain in the skies with my form glowing slightly as I tried to call out to Samud, who should be anticipating my arrival.

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Location: Domenance (Y8)

My thoughts reach out to Sanzo, "You know... if you don't want me reading your thoughts all the time, you should really thinking quieter and I would advise against any thoughts of creating your lightning storm here. I know visibility has lessened, but this is not the target. This is the capital of Domen's territory, Dominance. I think. I have only seen this place thru memories of both an operative and one of my most trusted emissaries." I look down upon the night sea and take in the sights. I wasn't all that concerned with observing the city yet. I would wait for Domen or Paco to sense us. I could not feel Samud's mind or thoughts, which are always open to me. I find this to be very strange. I scan the area now looking for a sign of him and waiting to be noticed. I would make no response as to the Pillars comment as I detested the comparison. I was nothing like them and should our paths cross again, I would definitely set out to prove that!

190/5015

Location: Demon's Territory

Samud nearly faints when the massive mouth of the hellcat lowers to engulf the diplomat before being tossed onto the hellcat's back. Samud goes thru a whirlwind of emotions and confusion during the whole ordeal, but he is sure that death is coming soon with all of the chaotic movements. The main shocker is not that he doesn't die, but that the little fairy, Paco, transforms into a rather large reptilian creature. The boastful confidence of the little guy now starts to make more sense having seen his true form. Still, Samud did not think that it was a good idea to leave General Paco behind.

Location: Domenance

Glancing over at Sanzo, I cast a glance at him trying to figure out what would prompt him to throw a lightning bolt into the skies. I do not object to it since it would be beneficial to get his attention. I open my mind to the environment to call out telepathically in a broadcast that spreads 100 feet around my position. "Come out, come out, wherever you are."

My senses tingled as a massive signature was approaching. It completely dwarfed the more familiar signature and if Domen arrived within sensing range (not sure if u are), that would cause my senses to be stretched as if I was being pulled in multiple directions. What distracts me the most though is an overbearing urge to mentally lash out on my fellow kami. Did he really just call me that? My eyes are sharp as daggers as I glance at him. "I don't suggest EVER calling me that again. The beast belongs to Domen. She came to Mandira when he visited. I do not sense General Paco though. Those two always seem to be together. I'm trying to get a lock on..." Following the hellcat's descent, the collective signature magnifies, which answers that question. Pointing towards the ground, I begin my descent. Aria would float with me before tending to Samud. The hellcat was his beast and I would not heal the mount without permission. It's rude.

The Emissary would already be speaking to Domen by the moment I arrive, "Paco... help... demon... attacks sooner." Samud collapses over in exhaustion and I notice blood on the side of his robes. My eyes begin to glow as my emotions begin to rise. The hellcat was wounded and Samud was in a condition that I could not easily read. Aria would quickly learn that it was not his blood, but the hellcat's wounds that soaked thru him.

Aria, having aided Samud already, feels my growing tension and emotional flares. She had grown used to them at this point, but they were still of concern to her all the same. "Mukhya..." My eyes remain on my ambassador. Delving into his mind, I remove all outside concern. As I "appear" inside of his thoughts, he is resting in bed. To Samud, this would be a vision of me coming to visit him at his home while he is recovering. His wife leads me in and I stand over the bed next to him. He looks ashamed and turns his head from me. "Samud, you are not a warrior and I would not have you be. Your gift is the ability to convey my thoughts and the Will of Mandira to those you meet. Just as important in my eyes as being a warrior. I need to know what happened. Look at me, Samud." He nods and turns to bring his eyes to meet mine. In "real life" his body would turn to face my direction as my body begins to glow itself.

Back inside of his mind, I watch all of the events unfold and gaining a visual of the demon, I now had my target. He had threatened one of mine and there would be recourse for said transgression. I could tell my presence in his mental mind was causing a strain on him, so I tell him to rest and that I would handle things from here. He obeys and I call for his wife to come and keep him company. This should cause him to have a pleasant dream about her while he sleeps.

Opening my eyes, I broadcast the image to the other spirits here along with a summarized version of what I saw and heard. I turn to Domen and nod to him, "One of my operatives informed me of this attack, which is why I am here now, though it was supposed to occur later. I had hoped to avoid a battle or war between higher orders here, but that is no longer an option with this one. Your General is still there fighting from that last image, but I do not know how long ago that image was. Your general and stronghold, so your lead. How do you want to proceed?"

Knowing that Valkrist too possessed the ability to teleport, I advise him to remain behind with Hakim so that once Domen's army is ready, he could teleport them to within range of the enemy army. With my mind being set for the task of battle, I prepare to send Aria home. She objects thru her quite audible thoughts. Between her and Sanzon doing that, it is liable to drive me mad one of these days. Since I was in no mood to argue with her, I "ask" Lura to look after Samud. I highly doubt to see any objection put forth by the wolf demoness. With everyone set to purpose, I begin to focus on my own. "Aria and I will accompany you. Sanzon, I would advise against going alone, but if you do go, retrieve General Paco and move him to safety. It will not take long for things to be here..." Or so I hope. The militaristic rigidness that Domen exudes at all times symbolizes to me that his army should be assembled and ready to "march" in no time at all. I am curious as to the size of his forces and how he will lead them in this battle. Perhaps, part of my curiosity stems from analyzing how I lead my own forces and the decision to allow Adrian to command them in battle. Sanzon is definitely guilty of extreme pride and vanity in his abilities, but considering that I often enjoy his company b/c of those "flaws" I tell him to stay on his guard and try to learn more about the demon.

This is one of those times that I kinda wished I could not read minds after all. It would prevent me from picking up on Sanzon's thoughts. Thoughts that bring a single thought to the forefront of my mind. Well more an image than a thought and that is him on his knees clutching his head in pain until the proud spirit learned where he stood in the grand pecking order. While that brings a smile to my face, I instead elect to share his feelings with the rest of the class. Well, that's a lie... not everyone. I look over at the demon as Sanzon's thoughts flow thru me to Domen like a conduit of his beloved electricity. The thoughts are both amusing and insulting to me, yet they are also expected. Sanzo obviously wished to get a rile out of me, so I would deny him such a thing and in the process make Domen appear to be more resourceful than he was. It was a win win for me. My gaze turns to the skies for a moment. Sanzo's question brings my attention fully back to him. "You go on ahead. I will help in the preparations here. I'm sure that you can handle a single demon. I am looking forward to watching the armies battle one another." I must admit that I am curious to see how Sanzo does against this unknown aggressor. Perhaps, I should attend. Turning to Domen, I inquire, "How long will your army take to assemble?" Pausing, I realize that no discussions of strategy had been discussed, which would lead me to hope that he has a solid plan for all of this.

The member 'aѕceпxion' has done the following action : Roll!

#1 '[ ! Lvl ] Honed' :


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#2 'One Hundred Roll' : 53