Vae Victis

Sorry guys, turns out, I'm a little in need of more sleep more busy than what I thought I'd be. Sorry for holding people up.

Viruden raised his jowls in a disturbingly honest attempt to communicate a smile at Tyra; of which the likes resembled too much of a snarl to even be considered a grin. Without hesitation, Viruden, careful not to step on the group of three, began to turn back towards the way he came, causing tremors and leaving gigantic paw prints in his wake. As Viruden made his way back towards the now crumbled mountain that he had so blatantly ripped apart without so much as a second thought, The warrior who was stormbringer, with arms still crossed and chilling blue eyes almost glowing from under his helm, yelled loudly at Viruden, beckoning for his attention. ​" Too proud to acknowledge a dear old friend, are you, Viruden!?!" Before reaching the metaphysical mountain range, which potentially served as the edge of this dream world, Viruden heard Galtos's call, and stopped in his wake, without turning to face the group, his far-reaching voice would ring once more throughout the area. This time, resounding with a tone of bitter-sweet reminiscence. " You... I can smell its scent upon you. So, that is how the legend of the Stormbringer began. And to think that even mighty Ciratha would choose that..." Galtos, unflinching, kept his calm, yet did seem a tad irritated when the word ' choose ' was put into play. Dropping his arms to his sides and taking a few steps forward in an act of argumentative rebuttal, the black steel-clad minotaur rebuked the great ursa. " If you think either of us chose to become what we did, You're wrong, Viruden. Right now, I'd rather be up in the eternal conflict, eating and drinking with my brothers and sisters-in-arms, and indulging in the greatest battle to ever be realized! Instead, I'm stuck in this life, immortalized as a ' son of Yuulver' in Sadauris. Ciratha is no different. It was forced. Not a choice." Without turning around, and continuing with his march, Viruden only stayed silent as he crept over the mountain range slowly, and eventually faded into the horizon behind it. It was clear that Galtos and Viruden knew each other at least somewhat personally, and the connections were not actually too hard to piece together. The Golden Horns were, at least, centuries old, as to be assumed by Lorec's cross talk with the pale rider, and the fact that Galtos himself was, and is, a golden horn, possibly even an original member before whatever ascension allowed him to claim the status of deity in Sauaris-Mino lore. The blade that Lorec sported had belonged to the Golden Horns for a very long time, and the banter between Galtos and Viruden proved that they have indeed met. Lorec, turning to Galtos, who was only a few steps away and still facing away from the group and toward's Viruden's exit point, raised a brow in trying to discern what Viruden had meant. Taking a seat in the grass, he spoke out towards this god among minotaurs. " ... What did he mean by all of that, Lord Nuulvak? " Turning to Tyra and Lorec, Galtos resumed his arms-crossed position, and shook his head. " In time... You will know, after I get what I'm looking for in Equestria. I'll leave you with this; even if the stuff of legends is based on what really happened, the legend will always find some way to cover the entire damn truth, blowing it up and making it sound better than what really happened. Legends make for good stories to children and for drunken song among brothers, but that doesn't mean it's true. But for now..." He looked at Tyra, and spoke as Lorec looked away in silence, trying to comprehend what had been said. " Shatterhoof... I've said all I wanted to say, and Lorec knows what to do. Now, I have a bit of a gift for Lorec, from one golden horn, to another. But that doesn't mean you can't stay for awhile. I'll leave it up to you. I'll cut the mental tie with you, and you'll find yourself back in the real world, waking safe if you want, or you can stay and wake at the same time as Lorec. Make your choice." Hearing of Galtos's gift, Lorec immediately forgot about his pondering and looked up at his worshiped hero-god. Rising up as fast as a fearful recruit in the presence of a stern, commanding officer, Lorec hilariously looked like a small, excited child for the briefest of moments. " A gift... For me?"

Though just barely, Dran managed to contain the grin that was trying to force itself upon his face. Standing up tall and pulling away from her ear, he backed away slowly, in the direction of her animals' shades. He was more than prepared to offer his explanation. but whether or not she would accept, well... Dran could easily just find another way to obtain the information that he needed. " It is fairly simple. An offering, of flesh once animated. You see, I have the knowledge and prowess required to not only reanimate what was once living, but I also possess the power to create differing amalgamations from deceased tissue... A power that is dearly payed for. In short, I can reshape dead creatures into any form I wish. Say, if you were to take me to a graveyard for ponies, then I could use their remains and leftover flesh to remake the bodies of your animals. Afterwards, I can thrust the ghosts of your animals into the bodies, and it will be as if this never happened. Completely restored, with little to no change whatsoever, save for an easily remedied circumstance, of which I can explain once more, if you would like me to." @@Unicorncob Viruden only cocked his head to the side, and stared down at Tyra as he snorted heavily, his great breath, almost equal to the winds of an E1 hurricane for the briefest of moments. Afterwards, with the gnashing of teeth, came a smaller, lighter cackle from the great bear. " You honestly believe that you could contend with the unbridled wrath of a fully realized Ursa King, little one? Lorec may be mighty, but in the end, he is the same as you; mortal. Mortal bodies are not meant to contain the power of a primal, no matter how strong they may be. That being said, with the limits that you all have, my true strength can only be attained if my champion willingly throws his life away to temporarily bring my physical vessel back. And before he could even do that, he would have to awaken...." His gaze shifted to Lorec, and then slowly nodded at him. Lorec nodded back towards the great bear, and Viruden spoke to Tyra once more. " Which appears to have already happened during his battle with you. All pettiness aside, the real reason I am here, is to thank you for getting my thickheaded champion to let go of the past, so that he may realize his true potential as a keeper. With all that he had built up inside of him, he could not enjoy the hunt like he once did... And what you did really is no small feat. You bested a keeper, with only your own strength. That is a feat worth being proud of." Viruden then looked over to Lorec, and gave what came across as a large sigh. " You've been freed of your burden, Lorec, and you have awakened as my keeper. Therefore, I expect you to win in a rematch one day. Is that understood?" Lorec smiled at the golden ursa, and nodded as he spoke. " Sure. But one thing. I'M the one in charge and giving orders... UNDERSTOOD?" " ... You've become a ballsy little shit, Lorec. And I must say, I rather like this new you... You are not as you were before this battle took place... But neither are you like how you were back when we first met. You're balanced. And that's the best way to be." Viruden, turning his gaze back to Tyra, spoke one last time. " So... Anything else that needs saying, or am I just wasting my precious hibernation time?" @@J.R. Kazas, laughing a bit awkwardly, kept his pace slow, so that he did not have to overexert himself. It actually felt rather comforting to know that Vera would not judge him for his diet as many around Equestria had come to do. Slowing down even more as to walk by her side, Kazas spoke softly, but with a tinge of gluttony in his voice, accompanied by a monstrous stomach growl. " Well... I was just wondering if there was any place here that served up pony food, along with a delicious bit of fried snake meat. If not, then I can always settle for a more vegetarian option. After all, my main concern right now, is seeing you safe, and in full health."

@@Tacoma Dran could only shake his head in disappointment, along with having an unsatisfied scowl on his face. It was clear that he was displeased with something. But, it would not be Fluttershy's unintelligible answer to his offer. Rather, he was cursing himself for being too overeager. How many times had it been that Dran had dealt with morbidity and loss when it came to consoling others, and why was he in such a rush, that he had not taken the time to properly assess that Fluttershy was truly in no shape to actually comprehend an offer that was shrouded in philosophical jargon? He was putting the preservation of ' natural balance' so far above the needs of the recently deceased, that he had failed to consider Fluttershy's condition. He would try to make his offer once more, except this time, in terms that she could fully understand. Sighing and bringing himself back down to earth, the pale unicorn dressed in the drabbest of cloaks trotted to her side, slowly. His expression became one of stoicism once more. He brought his muzzle next to her ear, and spoke once more in a quietly collected tone. Strangely, said tone suggested a fatherly figure comforting a distressed child, and not one proper of conducting a business proposal. " One more time, element of kindness. I can bring your beloved companions back with relatively no changes to them at all. Or if you would prefer a more natural option, I can give you a full day with them so that you may have a proper send-off. Both of these offers share the same price: the information I desire. Element of Kindness... Do you accept?" ________________________________________________________________________________ @@Unicorncob The great bear had to nearly cross his eyes to even look at the foal-sized warrior. His massive head only cocked to the side, as he raised a brow that made his confusion more apparent. After a brief moment of silence from Viruden, it was broken by an unexpected reaction. The mountainous bear threw his head upwards, and began to laugh hysterically. With every chuckle, the earth of the dream world shook violently. As he cackled, Viruden proudly bellowed in his random outburst of joyousness. Strangely enough, the reaction was not affecting much of the immediate area that the trio stood in. Prehaps, a positive side effect of Viruden's apparent placation. "ME? Angry? over something so Trivial as name-calling? Tyra Shatterhoof, you are a joker! Ha!" All the while, Lorec remained with his arms crossed, and sighed with his eyes staring at the ground, waiting for the golden bear to stop his nonsensical whimsy. " Damn it all Viruden... Give him a moment, Tyra. Out of all the primordial divines, an Ursa King's wrath is probably the most destructive, but at the same time, the shortest lived. With how easily he forgets about something that pisses him off, well... He'll shut up in a bit." Galtos, of course, was completely unfazed by any of the bear's actions. Muttering in a barely audible tone, he shook his head in a rather annoyed and impatient manner. " Great.... Give him a century, or give him five. Damn piss-colored bear doesn't change with the times." Eventually, Viruden would cease his laughter, and would focus all attention to Tyra as he brought his head back down to face them. So massive was he, that his body blotted out the great star above, and his eyes served as its replacement. He spoke once more, voice resounding throughout the entire grassland. " So, then... Would the apparent runt of her family's litter like to know why I've graciously allowed you to bask in my presence, then? hrmmmmmmmmmm?" ______________________________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas nodded in agreement to Vera's proposal, and began to leave for the exit that would leave them to the outside. Still drained from pulling a twice-fold life energy transfer, Kazas was walking quite slowly, even with the aid of his sword, of which he was using as a walking stick. Most certainly, not one of his or Ezerepth's proudest moments, but even so, he could not help but feel jubilant in the recent turn of events. Sure, Lorec had lost a battle. But was it really losing,when one comes out of a situation as a better being than before? Indeed, Having achieved the ' awakening ' as Alrahm had called it, Lorec was potentially the most powerful member of the D.R.O. as of now. Kazas could only smile widely at the thought of Lorec's metamorphosis, and the promise of a full recovery. And then, there was Vera. She too, was certain to heal up nicely. And with the way she made him feel, Kazas could not even hope to contain a goofy-looking grin. By miracle or chance that they had found each other, it didn't even matter to him. As he spent more time with her, Kazas felt old burdens lifting, one at a time. As if he could finally move on from the memories of Leovia. He only prayed that he could to the same for Vera. Without turning his head or stopping for a break, Kazas spoke out. " So, Vera... Where to? is there anywhere in particular you'd like to go to eat? I'm Not very familiar with this place but, it would certainly be a boon if... We found a restaurant... That serves snake..." Being in Equestria most certainly did cause the ashen griffon to become self-conscious about his carnivorous eating habits.

Sorry for the hiatus guys. Work really killed me this week.... ( sees snails here) @@Literally Snails Snails! it's been a long time. It's Hokuto. Changed a few things. How have you been?

@@Unicorncob The colossus that was Viruden only hastened its heavy strides towards the group of three, keeping his malicious, red eyes focused upon Tyra. This giant bear was clearly in no mood to be challenged as the toy sized earth pony had done. With every step that he drew nearer to them, great quakes were made, almost as if to crescendo the end of all things in existence. Deep imprints, of which each one could probably house the foundations for an entire mansion and a great amount of outlying property, were left in the golden Ursa's wake. Eventually arriving, the beast looked downward. Now this, was a monster that dwarfed any dragon. Slowly positioning itself into a stance that would suggest pouncing, Viruden would meet, as best as he could, with Tyra at eye level. Which, all things considered, was nigh impossible, considering that even his eyes were about the same size as a house. Scathingly staring Tyra down, Viruden reeled back as if he was going to roar. Except, about midway, Viruden's face contorted from one of anger, to one of... Confusion? The bear looked to the left and right, seeing both Galtos and Lorec standing to her side, The pale rider still with arms crossed, and Lorec taping his hooves and hands on his hips as if he were waiting for this annoying event to finish. Now, one would probably believe that Viruden was only finding their nonchalant reactions quaint. Same could be said for Tyra, After all, it was only natural that many would flee from the apex of the apex. But no. Viruden was seemingly befuddled for an entirely different reason. " Wait.... What was I angry about again?" Lorec, eyes flashing open wildly at Viruden and his mouth left agape, could barely even string together a competent answer as Galtos watched on in silence. " What... Wh-..... Dammit Viruden...." __________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas, nodding at Vera, then proceeded to slowly stand up from sitting position, having some difficulty In moving around due to the massive amounts of life energy that he had transferred before. Unsheathing his sword slowly, Kazas would use the blade as a makeshift cane in order to compensate and travel as he slowly recovered. Kazas looked over toward Lorec and Tyra, whom of which were across the room, and witnessed Sifana between them, sitting in wooden chair and grasping Lorec's hand and Tyra's hoof, seemingly asleep, with her head slightly slouched over as she slumbered. She must have been quite tired, considering her emotional downpour during her father and new found friend's battle. Instead of disturbing them, Kazas would let them all rest peacefully. they more than deserved it. Smiling at Vera, Kazas spoke. " It would be a pleasure! But I do fear that we may both need to tread lightly, considering the recent events that have transpired... I'm not exactly feeling too well myself."

Guts, reporting in! ( If you don't realize by now, I'm Hokuto's Heir.)

Dran, the apparent traveler with an eldritch air about him, concluded his rather unseemly act of nuzzling Fluttershy, in order to stir her to attention. As he had come to expect, the forlorn element of kindness would react with such fervor when a possibility of a mulligan was offered. Even though he tried to conceal his expression with a feigning of impassiveness, the stranger gave a knowing grin for but a fleeting moment; the kind of grin that a foal would have upon discovering that they had received the gift of their dreams upon Hearth's Warming Eve. Speaking in a polite, comforting voice, Dran would cryptically make known his intentions and his offer. " This sudden deprivation of life has desecrated the sanctity of the world's balance.... Element of kindness, you must realize that your role in Equestria is tantamount to its common defense, correct? But alas, how can a shield defend the wielder, when it has been shattered...? We believe death to be the penultimate climax to all life. And in reality, this holds true many a time. But what if I told you that this needn't be the case? When one tosses a coin to the ground and witnesses it roll, it is almost assured that the coin shall fall, either upon heads, or upon tails. However, there is always the rarest of occurrences, of which the coin lands on its edge, refusing to play puppet to the expectations of others. The coin that has been cast tonight, is representative of your beloved companions' fate. Behind me, the shades of your cherished ones languish at their untimely passing, and even more so at your devastation, as you do for them. And why would any being expect a different reaction when death is viewed as the final farewell?" Dran turned to look upon all of the souls that had followed him back to fluttershy's abode. All of them, as he said, were indeed lamenting the dreadful turn of events that had occurred tonight. The most prevalent however, was a small, snow white rabbit that was slowly hopping over to the duo's position. The rabbit was translucent, and gave off a weak, golden glow around its being. Wishing to comfort Fluttershy, the hare, sullen and despaired, nuzzled under her chin with loving intent. Dran had given the souls of the recently deceased a temporary form, closely resembling those that they had in life. A ghost, capable of limited interaction with those still on the mortal plane, but only if those still living willed it. Had Fluttershy not wanted physical contact with the shade, then it would have only phased through her, doing no harm. Turning back to her, Dran would finally disclose the dealings of which he wished to pursue. " The laws of nature are clear. However the need for balance and the security of the world reigns supreme over such laws. So therefore, In order to preserve said balance, I make my various offers to you, with no attempt to hide any terms within the offer. First and foremost, I offer to completely and totally restore the physical vessels of those lost to the flames of atrophy tonight. Their souls shall inhabit these restored vessels, and they shall be as they were in their first life. I shall even add a few years to their natural lifespans, as it is well within my power to do so. However, The flesh of the reanimated tends to be weakened, and thus, they will require the flesh of other living beings every few months. While this indeed sounds sinister and malicious, I will personally promise you my head that it is not as terrible as you would believe. Any flesh can satisfy, and carnivores, such as your ursine friend, needn't even worry due to his dietary habit of fish. A simple resolution is that all animals, every quarter of the year, are fed fish, giving their souls the strength to sustain their bodies. I shall give an explanation as to why, if you will it. However, if you find this method unethical, and wish to pursue an alternative solution in which they shall exist in a world far more pure than our own, then I shall make an alternative offer; through much time, training, and attainment of magical prowess, I have the ability to open a gateway to the threshold between the afterlife and the plane upon which we exist. This threshold is known as the fields of Elysia, a beautiful, seemingly endless field of vibrant fauna and open skies that serves as the doorway to eternal bliss. Here, both shade and flesh coexist side by side, and may interact with each other freely. I shall give you one full day to rejoice with your beloved, and to say your final goodbyes before they cross the plains to their final destination. This offer could be seen as more acceptable to the natural order." Dran brought his hoof to Fluttershy's cheek, and stroked it once before retracting his hoof. While comforting, the hoof was cold... Like a corpse. Finally, Dran spoke once more, and revealed what it was that he desired for such a precious opportunity. " All I ask in return, is that you allow me to view your memories, via a spell. While I can completely understand that our most intimate secrets are something held dear, I must see what you have seen. It shall not only aid me in locating the perpetrator of this crime, but I can also gleam from you the state of Equestria, and perhaps aid in protecting the other elements that form the shield that defend this nation. After all, there are those who seek to upset the balance, and I shall have none of that... It is not a high price, and this is all I am asking of you, nothing more, nothing less. Information, for the fate of your dearest animals... A trade that, while fair, does weigh heavily in your favor. Element of Kindness... Do you accept my offer?" ______________________________________________________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas, attentive to Vera and seeing her become slightly emotionally distressed when memories of her parents had obviously resurfaced, was pondering whether or not he should engage in the subject with her. After all, she had just now finished crying, and was long overdue for some enjoyment. And considering the track record that Kazas had kept with his own parents, it wasn't like he was totally ignorant of her suffering, even though their situations were substantially different in this regard. Deciding that he wanted to see Vera happy, Kazas answered her question with a smile of his own, and spoke in a rather uplifted and cheerful tone. " Well, I was thinking maybe we should obtain something delicious for you to eat, considering your recent recovery. Afterwards, I would very much like to head back to the embassy, so that my affiliates and I can discuss giving you the vacant ambassador's room. After I successfully talk them into giving you use of that room...." He paused, with a confident look in his golden eye. Confidence was one thing that Kazas usually never exuded, deferring to humility instead. However, there was something about Vera that brought out his inner pride. With her beside him, he felt he could do almost anything that he put his mind to. He didn't say he would try... He implied that it was a battle that he had already won, and he would make it so, for her. " Then well... we'll go from there. And as for Lorec, he shall be fine. He and his opponent are to make a full recovery, so it has been told. I am quite proud of him. He has managed to evolve all the way past us and into levels of power that even I have not tapped into. It is my sincerest hope that I awaken as a keeper, just as Lorec has. We may even throw a party for him within the span of a week, and maybe you'll get to see how one glass of wine will send me to the floor, ha! So what do you think, Vera? This is just all suggestions. We can do whatever you wish." ____________________________________________________________________________________- @@Unicorncob Galtos nodded his head once, and responded in an assuring and prideful tone. " Very soon, I will release my hold over Sifana, and then you will wake up fres-" "RAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWRRRRGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!" Within the field of dreams, a great roar could be heard ringing throughout the entirety of the area. It shook the area to its very core, almost causing an upheaval of an earthquake in its wake. Lorec almost lost his balance as he stilled himself from falling over. Galtos only stood resolute, unfazed by the occurrence. When the roar subsided, Galtos turned his head to the right, towards what seemed to be a distant mountain, tall, and absolutely massive in sheer size and scope. The Stormbringer sighed, and spoke nonchalantly, all the while as Lorec was gathering his thoughts and paraphernalia. " Hmph. It seems that the only creature who can match Ciratha's pride has finally decided to bless us with his ever so gracious presence. I do not know what you two did, but congratulations; that is the roar of a Primordial. And he sounds damn angry, too." "THE BLOODY BEAR, IS IT?!?!?!?!? TYRA SHATTERHOOF, I WILL NOT TOLERATE SUCH DISRESPECT!" For one moment that seemed like an eternity, There was nothing but the thunderous echo of these words to reverberate throughout the area, and then silence eventually prevailing once more. As the echo finally died off, Lorec had turned to face the mountain as well. Sighing like Galtos had, Lorec knew what was coming and played it off as though it were not an event worth noticing. Which, given that this was an unexpected presence in the dream that seemed unwelcome, coupled with the fact that whatever had just spoke had enough power just in its voice to shake the Earth, was rather unsettling. Speaking, Lorec brought his palm to his face, and shook his head. " I hate it when he acts like this... Let him have his words so he'll calm down faster, alright Tyra?" As if the ground itself was nothing more than mere ocean water, the earth around the mountain began to shift exponentially, as a monstrous beast from far below had begun to stir... A great earthquake began to shake the foundations of the dreamworld, And an untold amount of debris was suddenly ejected into the sky, from behind the mountain, with such force that said debris had become as visible as an ant would be from standing position. And as it was, a great, golden beast would burst forth, from behind the mountain, roaring once again with great anger, in the general direction of Tyra and the others... It was an Ursa. An absolute terror of great physicality, from times long forgotten. This Ursa... It made even the biggest of majors seem like it had suffered a growth stunt early in life. As it emerged and climbed out of whatever hole that it had made, one could see that even on all four legs, this golden bear was taller than even the mountain, with legs as thick as it's base. In its abrupt anger, the Ursa reeled up on its hind legs, and swiped at the mountain. Like putty in the hooves of a five year old foal, the mountain gave way to the Ursa's force, and was almost immediately destroyed from the base upward, tons and tons of stone being displaced immediately, and falling to the world, causing yet another great Earthquake. Still standing on two hind legs, the Ursa fell back to the quadrupedic stance, and began to slowly walk towards the group of three. The mountain had to be at least 50 miles away, and yet this great, golden bear... It was almost covering half a mile with every step, causing tremors along the way that only grew in intensity. " I AM VIRUDEN, THE URSA KING! AND I REFUSE TO TAKE SUCH A NEGATIVE CONNOTATION FROM A WHELP!"

Alrahm, having been left in the dust cloud that Enzo had so graciously left behind as he scampered away, coughed rather violently in the wake of the cloud. Thankfully, the old crone of a mage had not neglected his bifocals, which aided in shielding his eyes from having earth kicked up into them. Even still, as he was present within the cloud of dust, he could not pick up on Enzo's destination. maybe he had spooked him somehow? As the dust settled, Alrahm's coughing ceased. Sighing, Alrahm only shook his head as he stroked his pridefully kept beard. " Strange. Easily startled, detected a hint of recognition from subject. Possibly conclusion;.... I must remind him of something or someone that he holds negative associations with, and past trained response dictated that he flee from ill-conceived threat based from said past experience. Conclusion;... Damn you, Pavlov. heheh..." _______________________________________________________________________________________ Kazas, responding fervently, resumed to caress her soft cheek with his left claw. He was a passionate one, certainly. Always wanting to comfort and assure, He offered Vera that familiar faint smile, and stared into her eyes with his own. To him, those emerald eyes were the windows to a soul most extravagant. For Kazas, being borne of flame just as she was, it was nearly poetic that their destinies had intertwined and woven into each other so deeply in a short amount of time. The ashen griffon spoke. " And likewise, I will never be judgmental of you in any way, Vera. All creatures are deserving and worthy of forgiveness, for we are rendered immaculate within the eyes of the creator. And be not afraid to cry. In fact, I am happy that you trust me enough to show me this part of you. There is nothing wrong with letting it out, Vera. I think you are brave for doing so." ________________________________________________________ @@Unicorncob The stormbringer, looking toward Tyra now, didn't necessarily provide the answer that she was looking for. " An explanation doesn't do it justice. If you really wish to know what it is, then follow in the footsteps of the Golden Horn beside you, and witness it for yourself. Is there anything else before I take my leave?"

Kazas would pull her in closer to him, and would use the mantle cloth as a cushion between his armor and her head so she wouldn't feel any discomfort. All Kazas could think of was holding her tightly for as long as Vera required. Knowing Lorec was safe as well, he could, with a clear mind and an uplifted heart, concentrate all efforts on his beloved. It was almost strange. Vera was very resistant to the world's attempts to break her, and yet... she was so fragile. And while mercenary work was best handled by those with cold hearts, the ashen griffon had only ever experienced the warmth of her love, which to him, was both a blessing and a privilege. _________________________________________________________ @@Unicorncob Galtos folded his arms once more, and only chuckled a bit before reprimanding Tyra. " Don't assume that if you've fought one, you have fought them all. Underestimating an opponent is a quick way to lose that life of yours, Shatterhoof. You almost found that out today. Maybe when you're older, stronger, and wiser, but not today. If and when you've become worthy of my time, you'll know... And I have a feeling that you will. " Immediately shifting to Lorec, Galtos's tone changed to one of utmost seriousness and prideful authority. " Now, the reason why I dragged you into this place was not only to congratulate you two on a battle well fought, but to ask Lorec to perform the rite of krigarguden." Lorec, looking perplexed, spoke out. Not in refusal, but in an honest state of confusion. " ... The rite? But why? That is reserved for when Saduaris is on its last heel, the trump card against any foreign invading force.... reserved for when even the strongest sons of Sadauris have fallen... The song that summons the pale rider.... you." " Hmph. And a damn good song it is, with power to send fear through the most hardened warriors as they piss themselves in terror, slowly realizing that they have earned the ire of not just myself, but of every single Saduarian that they bled. A Shamanistic spell, invoked by the collective will of our people." " But you never answered me... Why?" " Because... I want everyone there to know. I want the princesses to know. I want the citizens of Equestria to know. I want our brethren to know. All creatures within the borders of the equine nation. I want Caliber to know. When that song is heard, and those who understand grasp the meaning, they will know that it beckons a storm." " It... Will be done." ____________________________________________________________________________ @ The old unicorn sighed, and looked quite disappointed in the stag, shaking his head from left to right slowly. Great. He could already tell that this one was very much the social equivalent of Syuren. Not making much of an effort to hide his lack of enthusiasm, given Enzo's response, he would still at least try to make intelligent conversation with this obvious outsider. As he trotted, he spoke in an old, somewhat strained voice. " Greetings, and salutations. I couldn't help but wish to gather insight upon you. I hope it is not too much of a tedium, but I have never had the opportunity to study one of your kind before. Pray tell, you are a stag, are you not?"

Kazas, taken somewhat by surprise from Vera's embrace, answered with wrapping his own foreclaws around her, allowing her head to rest on his shoulder. Of course, fully armored, he did not know if it would be comfortable for Vera to cry unto a metal cuirass. So in order to circumvent any discomfort she would have as she let out her welled up tears, Kazas reached for his backside, and took hold of the crimson mantle that marked his standing as a commanding figure. Slowly bringing it up to her face as he gently drew back, he wiped away her tears as they came rolling down delicately. The fabric of the mantle was actually quite flocculent, and would provide great comfort. " Sometimes words don't do emotions justice, Vera. And as I mean that much to you, know that you hold a unique placing within my heart, a position that I feel that only you can occupy. And If I were to lose you somehow... I feel as though it would be a permanent void that nothing could fill." Kazas smiled at her, and managed to steal a slow smooch upon her cheek as he held Vera closely to his being. " Take all the time you need, Vera. Let it all out. I love you." ______________________________________________________ " I hope so, Shatterhoof. 100 years of boredom, and not even a single damn warrior worth my time has appeared. I was beginning to think I'd run out of options to cure the doldrums. oooooooohhh, I can imagine it now.... our blades clashing and adrenaline pumping, locked in intense combat.... How I've longed for this! of course, I'd consider you for a challenge too, if I felt that you were actually ready. And of course, the Beast of Sadauris, I'm not allowed to touch... such a shame." Lorec, still flabbergasted at the events unfolding, had many questions that he wanted to ask his apparent god, but would not get the chance, for as soon as he opened his mouth, the pale hide stormbringer would only ask a question of his own, this time, directed to both. " So... Do you really wish to know the true reason I dragged you both into this poor imitation of paradise?" ________________________________________________________________________________________ @ The old mage, Alrahm, had trotted out of the medical facility, quite sure that his fellow keeper Lorec and Kazas's new apparent love interest were left within capable hooves, especially since the Inaros' heir was present with them. Alrahm chuckled to himself as he predicted Kazas's response as he trotted out. Right now, Kazas was probably being a hopeless romantic as he watched over and cared for his injured mate, using loaded, yet proper language to express his affections to the mare. And what a catch Kazas had made. definitely a smoker, by the scent. Not only that, but she seemed brash, coarse, and even somewhat improper, from how she spoke and acted around himself and the other keepers. Alrahm was quite adept on picking up on even the most subtle social cues, as was his extremely observant nature, tempered by years of tutoring, research, and of course, field work. How such a lady attracted the likes of a straight arrow that was Kazas baffled Alrahm. Maybe the cliche of ' opposites attract' really did hold at least a smidgen of truth. the grizzled unicorn, in silver and blue robes that would suggest a respectable mage, sporting bifocals, and what seemed to be a crystalline, translucent staff that he used to help himself get around, was contemplating and stroking his aged, gray, grizzled beard. He thought about the future of the Divine Retribution Order, the impact that this new factor which was Kazas's star-crossed lover could have upon it, and Lorec's ascension to a higher sphere of power. Where Kazas led by heart and emotion, Alrahm differed to logic and reason as being the truest means of great leadership. While, as a being, Alrahm could respect Kazas for his nobility, humility, sense of justice, and kindness, it was hard to stomach Kazas's policies at times. Where Kazas would forgive one who was a major threat to society and allow them another chance, Alrahm would have logically eliminated said threat, ensuring future peace and mitigating possible damages in the near future. Where Kazas would attempt diplomacy with even the most stubborn of beings, Alrahm would already have dozens of strategies formulated in his head in order to lay waste to his enemies. Was Alrahm by any means heartless? Of course not. He had a wife, a child, and a grandchild, and loved them dearly. He gave free tutoring to those struggling students who desperately needed the extra push in order to get through their schooling. However, battles were different, and any who would dare threaten his way of life demanded existential removal, an action that he had no quarrels with, if required. Of course, the mental barriers that Alrahm had which dictated the euthanasia of another were quite numerous, and seldom broken. And for many, that is a great relief, considering that he was the second most powerful keeper within the D.R.O. He was Alrahm Velle, keeper of the windigo monarch, Serro, and an undisputed aegis of magical talent that lorded over the element of water and ice as if he were one with it. And even at the golden age of 62, he was a true force to be weary of. Knowledge was power, and knowledge is something Alrahm had an overabundance of. Straying out near the arena's entry area in an effort to get back home and head to bed, Alrahm noticed a peculiar specimen before him. A stag, rarely seen around this area of Equestria. With his cloudy vision, Alrahm was in no shape to observe from afar, so he decided to trot slowly closer to this creature, hoping to record notes of social skills, habits, and miscellaneous information for future posterity. It probably would not be long until he was noticed...

And there it was. For as long as the Leovian Civil Contention had been concluded, Kazas had internally despised his own inability and lack of experience at the time of his compatriots' deaths, so long ago. Their collective demise weighing heavily upon Kazas's heart, he had emotionally condemned himself in a strange sense of self-serving penance, believing that he was an unworthy sinner. It would not be long until Kazas would have sought the council of his then new-found friends and fellow keepers. Lorec was the first that he had ever spoken to about what stained his very soul. Surprisingly, Lorec had been very receptive of Kazas's regrets, and comforted him as best he could, explaining exactly why the sullen griffon could not be blamed for his brothers-in-arms' passing. And while Kazas took all of it in strife, he continued to suffer in self-emotional reprisal. He would also console the other keepers as well, only to hear the same answer; It wasn't his fault. Of course, in his own stubborn way, Kazas refused to believe them, thinking that if his faith had been stronger and had practiced with Ezerepth's gifts more, then he could have saved more lives, reveling in his naivete that he could have healed fatal wounds had he been stronger. But now, even Vera, the mare that he had fallen for in a short deal of time, was telling him the same thing that his fellows did a long time ago; That he should not blame himself for those losses, even going as far as to call him ' noble'. Kazas had never asked for others' opinions of him out of humility, and the fact that his own self-reflection took precedence. Was he, in fact, noble? After all, in his mind, he was just adhering to the law bestowed by Avae, the creator, in the form of the Vakor texts. Was he noble for just doing what the being he worshiped asked of him? Of course, the law of Avae could be seen as noble in itself, as it is one of loving all, judging not one soul, forgiveness, and self sacrifice. Kazas, through his humility and belief, always thought himself unworthy of reprieve. But Vera, whom to him, was as a ravishing, loving angel of whom Avae had decided to bless the world with, spoke to him the words that would soothe his soul. And this time, instead of revisiting the loss that he had previously believed to be due to his own inadequacy, Kazas would instead remember the times of joyous, hard earned success. Lorec, those that he had managed to save, and finally... Those last words rang as loudly as church bells in his mind. Was he worthy of forgiveness, truly? Was it even his sin to begin with? Alas, Kazas did not know... but finally, after so long, he had began to believe these things. Maybe he really wasn't to blame for the deaths of his comrades, and why should he be? He only tried to aid them, even if the effort was all for naught. Perhaps he had taken the mental plummet so that his brethren did not have to, when in fact, not one of them was to blame. Not even Kazas. But all of that was beginning to seem like a moot point. Especially with Vera's tender assurances. Kazas slowly brought his claw up to the hoof that Vera had been embracing him with, and gently cupped it with his talons. Her hoof felt so warm on his cheek, and was of great comfort. He looked her in the eyes with his one, and smiled exuberantly in grateful appreciation. he spoke to her softly, voice reminiscent of embers crackling on a summer evening of bonfires and merrymaking. " Vera... Thank you.... Never in my life, would I have thought myself worthy of an angel such as yourself. It is as you say, Vera. I love you, and you love me. And that's why I want to stand beside you in all ordeals that you would face, such as this most recent one. Vera, I will completely understand If you choose not to tell me how, or why this happened... But I do want you to know that you are no longer bound by loneliness. A Phoenix will fight until it is nothing but a pile of ashes in order to protect its loved ones. And even if struck down, the bird of flame shall only be reborn anew with strengthened vigor and shall not cease until the goal of having their beloved safe is achieved. Vera..." He leaned in closely, and pressed his forehead against hers, smiling. With a whisper, he would let loose his next words with an air of confidence. It seems like Vera's own assuaging of Kazas's guilt and fear of not being good enough had instilled a new confidence in him. " If you will it, then I shall be that Phoenix." ___________________________________________________________________________________ @@Unicorncob The Stormbringer chuckled, as if he were a child who had just received free reign to purchase anything they wanted from a venerated candy store. " Good... Very good. As for the reason why.... It's because I intend to do battle with him."

Kazas, acknowledging Vera's concern and turning back to face her, was still frowning deeply. Kazas, even though not having been with her for that long, had found himself very trusting of Vera. And besides, being an adherent to the teachings of Vakor, Kazas would not dare to tell a lie, only resorting to absolute silence when he did not wish to answer a question. However, silence would not be golden this time around, at least for him. " Vera... It has been two and a half years since the Leovian civil contention concluded. It lasted a for a decade and a half. In that time, I saw many close to me come back from battles in the exact shape that you were in. Except when I tried to aid in their recovery....." That was it then, he was truly opening up to her, allowing her to see what silently plucked at the harp-strings of his very being. Of course, as per Ezerepth's conversation with Vera via the melding of consciousness, she would already know how this story ends. However, this was also an opportunity for her to possibly help mend another blot upon Kazas's soul, thereby halting the ' second coming of azure', as the great phoenix had so gracefully put it... And to help Kazas put his past behind him, as he was trying to do for her. "... We lost many, and it was due to my inability at that time that I was unable to complete my duties to them. I have no one but myself to blame. However, what is done in the past is done. What I'm truly trying to express, is that I'm afraid, Vera. I'm afraid that I would fail you as I have them. You know that you are precious to me. And I have trouble bearing the possibilities of what would happen if I were to prove inadequate..."

Kazas was not very partial to being woke up in this manner, but of course, Vera's nagging would eventually win out. And besides, it's not like he wouldn't be waking up to a pleasant situation. In fact, far from it. Lorec was going to make a full recovery, and his beau had also pulled through, likewise. As she spoke, Kazas began to slowly arise from her bedside, still staying seated. When he finally came to, he yawned. After doing so, Kazas scooted in closer to Vera, and at a leisurely pace, softly brought his claw to Vera's cheek, caressing her as he spoke. " Vera, I love you. It's only natural that I would do this. There is no need for gratitude when I was just doing what comes natural... But, Mi Amore...." He spoke the last two words quite sullenly, and a depressive, alerting drop in his tone of voice was ever so foreboding of his next inquiry. " Please, I want to know who the assailant was so I can....." For just a brief instant, Kazas's eye became as crimson as the sun on a summer evening, as per an unintentional, emotional tapping into of Ezerepth's power. He looked away from Vera almost as if he felt great shame in tandem with frustrations welling up inside of him. His frown turned into an intimidating scowl as he looked away. Eventually collecting himself back together, Kazas looked to face his love again. His face was a painting of shame and grief, almost as if he had just committed an unforgivable sin. He kept caressing her cheek for a while, and then let his claw fall to the side. " ... I..... Forgive me... I do not know what that was just now. I just... Never want to see you in that state again..." What exactly was going on in the griffon's head? Was he convicting himself due to failing to protect Vera? Was he not able to cope with his reaction, albeit natural, and thus, was scaring himself into a tizzy? His lower beak quivered, just barely. And who could really blame him for appearing as an emotional hurricane right now? He had Spent much energy to save both one of his best friends and his lover, fearing that both would pass on to the other side. And not only that, but one could tell that he had in fact, come close to transferring a dangerous amount of his soul's essence in order to preserve their lives. Alas, he couldn't bring himself to keep eye contact with Vera, and silently looked away in guilt. ____________________________________________________ [LOREC] @@Unicorncob Nodding his head, the pale minotaur... patted Tyra on the head as if she were a child? The audacity of this warrior was almost as legendary as Lorec claimed the pale minotaur himself to be. " Ha Ha! NOW you understand! Remember, to be swornless in this world, is to lead a pathetically tragic and lonely existence. Of course, neither of you have to worry about that." Standing erect and proudly tall once again, he took a few steps back, and stood between them, crossing his arms once more. " Well, I do not know of this, " Hero's Realm " that you speak so fondly of, but I can tell you both that you needn't fear death; you're both very much still alive. You are both dreaming intensely. This area we are in is nothing more than a projection of my will into your sleeping minds, a feat made possible by young Sifana." Lorec, looking shocked, slightly twitched his fists a tad. Of course, being a father, who wouldn't at hearing that their daughter was being used as some means in order to achieve a supernatural event that should not be occurring. Almost as if he were forgetting that he was just bowing to this minotaur earlier, Lorec spoke loudly, neck veins and muscles bulging in slight annoyance. " What do you mean, made possible by Sifana... what have you done?!?" Raising his palm to Lorec as if motioning him to still himself, he spoke calmly, and yet with authority. " No need to rush head first into a thrashing, boy. Your daughter is, and will be fine. In the physical world, she is but holding your hand and Tyra's hoof. Now, while I would be able to connect with you, Krigare Lorec, I couldn't bring you here with Tyra unless one of the cursed blood connected you both, or if Tyra had the very same bewitchment thrust upon her." " .... What do you mean by ' cursed blood'?" ".... In due time, boy. All will be explained if you are patient. Now......" He looked down at Tyra, his cold eyes expressing a desire for battle and debauchery, almost. " The one, known as Caliber Greycoat... He is there, in Bangcolt, correct?"

Strombringer's head cocked to the side a tad, and even though most of his head was protected by his helmet, his eyes, which could clearly be seen, still gave away all notions of annoyed confusion. " What are you rambling on about? Have you taken so many blows to the skull, that stupidity overtakes you? You act like you're getting married! Being a sworn just means that whenever an ally calls, you come running. Likewise, Your sworn will answer a call to arms as well! That doesn't mean you have to go wherever your sworn goes! All it means, Krigare, is that you have a comrade somewhere, at some time." ___________________________ @@J.R. Kazas, being awoken by Vera, only continued to purr as he slowly open his good eye to her and beheld the gray mare. He was enjoying her pleasant touch greatly. And for one moment, the look he gave Vera was one that could potentially melt the heart of even the coldest of souls. His signature faint smile was gone, replaced by a look of only pure concern and caring for another being. It was akin to that of a child comforting a woeful parent, one of innocence and love. once he had deduced that Vera had healed and was alright, Kazas closed his eye slowly again, indulging in the song of his fellow avians. His smile returned, and he spoke softly, albeit in a soft and tired voice. Was it possible that the process had taken more out of the griffon than expected? " mmmmmmmmmm.... Very pleasant to awaken to.... How are you feeling, Vera?" He continued his purring as his head was still laying on the bedside. ____________ @@Tacoma @@Unicorncob Dran, having waited for Fluttershy to arise patiently, spoke out to her, standing to her backside with the now visible shades of her animal companions behind him, woefully looking onward. " Element of kindness, what has just transpired is an absolute epitome of the cruelty that mortals are capable of. I completely understand the scope of the possible emotional destruction that has been wrought upon your very soul, for I have bared witness to such acts similar to this countless times... However, I can offer you a reprieve, a second chance.... so to speak. turn and face me, and hear my offer."

Arms still crossed, the Stormbringer shook his head from left to right, and sighed as if he were not amused. " Hmph. No matter how much I see that, I will forever loathe being bowed down to as if I deserve some kind of royal treatment. You two should have some damn pride, not groveling! Get off the ground! I wouldn't even be speaking with you two if I didn't find you worth my time! And to answer your question, Tyra Shatterhoof..." He began slowly walking down the hill, unfolding his arms as he began his proud strut forth. As this minotuar, Galtos, eventually reached the pair, he extended his hand toward Lorec, who was just getting off of the ground as he was commanded to do so. Looking up as if he had just met the most esteemed celebrity to ever grace the world with their presence, Lorec eagerly accepted, and clasped his hand around Galtos's in a show of camaraderie and admiration. Galtos helped him back onto his hooves, still clasping his hands. It was funny, almost. Even though Galtos was clearly half a head taller than many Minotaurs, Lorec still dwarfed him by a full head, and even though Lorec had to look down at the stormbringer, it was clear that he looked up to him in every way. After disengaging from the clasp, Galtos then slowly strolled over to Tyra, and bent down, arms resting on his knees, and looking her dead in the eyes with his own. He then spoke to answer her inquiry. " In Tauric culture, one's sworn is a most trusted compatriot, In battle, and in day to day life. Your sworn is someone you fight until every last bone in your body is shattered to protect, as they would do the same for you. If someone dishonors your name and your sworn hears it, then your sworn has the obligation of forcing them to make necklaces out of the teeth that they would lose for insulting you. If someone strikes you with a bottle of the good ol' blod av aptgangr, then your sworn breaks a chair over theirs and throws them through the window, only to climb through that same window in order to beat them with a leg from that broken chair. If someone tries to stab you in the back, your sworn will gladly rip them in half for trying. In short, being sworn to one another means much in our lands. Best of comrades, brethren in conflict. It is an honorable title, where each considers the other his or her equal. It is awarded on the merits of respect for one another. And I believe you two know each other more deeply from the clashing of blades than you ever could from just speaking... Am I right?" _______________________________________ @@J.R. Kazas was still quite knocked out from the healing processes that he had provided for Vera and Lorec. still in his chair near Vera's bedside, Kazas's head was resting partially on the bed, with one claw dangling almost nearly to the ground, and the other being used as a pillow to prop his head up in lieu of a pillow. As he slept, he had a very peaceful expression exuding from him, as if a great burden had been lifted and he was now allowed to rest. Interestingly enough, Kazas was... purring? like a kitten? Probably how Leovians snored, as many had figured before. Most likely, a result of the lion's half within the griffon species. His face turned toward Vera, he was even smiling in his sleep as he purred. " zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..........zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.......Ve-.....ra...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.........."

Dran, with his unchanging and undaunted gaze, shook his head as if to suggest that Strix had spoken words of excessive foolishness. As the souls of the now dearly departed stood behind him, mourning and lamenting in an adagio of despair, he answered, flames flickering in his eyes. " That decision is not mine to make. While I can assure you that such a feat is well within the realm of possibility, It shall fall to the element of kindness to make such a decision. And all I shall ask of her in return... Is information." @ Turning away from Strix and trotting slowly towards the unconscious Fluttershy, Dran observed her turtle-like breathing and distressed face. His gaze, for the briefest second, contorted into one of disappointment, as if he were a father whom had just scolded his child harshly. Shaking his head again, he muttered under his breath. " Mortals.... Still capable of even the cruelest of travesties. While this was to be expected, I still find myself disappointed at their failure of attaining social evolution." Finally reaching Fluttershy, he gently bent down and nuzzled her chin with his own snout and shaking her gently with his hoof in an attempt to wake her. While this atrocity would have foreseeable mental strain upon Fluttershy's psyche, it was Dran's intent to remedy this as best as he can. " Element of Kindness.... Awaken so that I may convene with you." ____________________________________ [LOREC] @@Unicorncob Having been rebuked by this quaint warrior, Lorec's face expressed annoyance at both his arrogance, and Tyra's snickering. That is, until the pale Minotaur would direct his ire at her as well. " Do you find joy in your sworn's misfortune, Equestrian? Most disloyal, considering that you do not know me as friend or foe yet. You disappoint me. My sworn would attempt to stomp you into the ground if you were to even think about dragging my name through the mud." This pale warrior, rising from his grassy pedestal from on high, assumed a very commanding stance. Compared to Lorec, he was a full head shorter than the scarred warrior. But there was something about him that just demanded respect and fear. A sort of other-worldliness that transcended the understanding of mere mortals. He slowly turned around, revealing many details about himself. He was heavily armored, with jet-black greaves, gauntlets, cuirass, and helm, all masterfully crafted and of steel temperament. His shoulder pauldrons were crafted with small, spiky protrusions coming from them, a clear sign that he belonged on the front lines, as those were usually implemented to Increase the debilitating effect of a shoulder charge. His helm, which allowed a slit for his cold, blue eyes, sported a white warpaint line traveling down the left side of the helmet vertically from the left corner of the opening. He sported a blue sash tied around his waist, with a shotel tucked in close, a blade quite similar to a reaping armam"ent that was a sickle, designed to parry and slash around shields. chains, which seemingly snaked up his right arm and diagonally over his left shoulder and torso multiple times, acted as a harness for a well crafted bardiche. and to his left hip, a straight sword, probably very well kept, much like this warrior's other assets. To match his eyes and sash, his trousers, which were pretty much only exposed at the thighs, were also a deep blue. on his left leg, a cloth band had been tied around the portion just above the knee; white, with a faded shield and golden horn design.... one of Lorec's band? He stood tall and crossed his arms, looking down upon the two with those prideful, blue eyes. This... was a lion among sheep. " But... who are you? From that cloth, I can tell you aren't an enemy. I'm a golden horn just like you wer-" " AM a Golden Horn, just like I. Once a Golden Horn, Always a Golden Horn, boy. Or has the great Beast of Sadauris forgotten that he belongs to the greatest damn group of warriors to ever grace a battlefield and leave behind nothing but broken bones, bloodstained plains, and piss puddles upon their rivals' graves? And might I add, one of the best, in addition to being worthy of that stubborn bear's time?" Lorec looked away in slight awkwardness. now, instead of berating him, this warrior was.... complimenting him? " And who better to have as a sworn than one who can battle a primal's keeper with but only might and mettle? Young pony, you've proven me quite wrong. I always thought you equestrians were a bunch of snot-nosed little runts who couldn't fight, and were too soft because your piss poor excuse for a monarchy and sub par military training didn't really speak much to me. But now... I'm eating my own words. Even if it's just a few, I can say that there are warriors among your nation that may just be worth my time these days.... ohhhhhhhhh, that fight you two just had... I'm envious, truly. That was one hell of a brawl. Tyra Shatterhoof, be proud. I'm not proven wrong often. And it is even more rare that I be envious of another's skirmish." Another compliment, this time, to Tyra. " Your comments are appreciated... but, who are you? and where are we?" " Haven't figured it out, boy? Pale hide, piercing blue eyes, bulging veins.... Maybe if Ciratha could have accompanied me..." " Wait... you said... Ciratha... the legendary devil steed prince... But he was sworn to only one, and that was-" " Nuulvak... The mythical warrior of old that defended Saduaris from a curse of rising dead, helped formed the Golden Horns, and ascended to the status of a deity of war as a son of Yuulver. Once known as Galtos Fyuln." " It can't be.... are you truly..." Arms still crossed, the imposing minotaur issued a bolstering declaration to the pair, as if he were commanding an army. " I Am the pale rider! An eternal protector of Saduaris, and the one who beckons forth hell every time I draw my sword against my enemies! I am Galtos, christened Nuulvak! I. AM. STORMBRINGER!" And without any hesitation, Lorec fell to the ground, on all fours, seemingly worshipping this minotaur. Was it really true? Could this pale bull truly be a deity of conflict?

[uNKNOWN] The stranger slowly closed his eyes and ceased all manner of grinning. His horn began to glow a somewhat silvery color, matching his eyes and his mane. It was at that point that he would speak again to Strix. " Strix. At this point in time, you must be wondering who I must be, and why I have come here. Well... there have been many events that have disturbed the world's balance of power occurring in Equestria as of late. This nation's sovereigns... They are beginning to stray from their respective responsibilities in favor of tedious and unnecessary paths that shall lead them, and Equestria, to ruins. But this is not where the perdition quells... There are those who have gathered around this place... Beings who seek nothing but personal pleasure that is rooted in the destruction of others, regardless of who they may injure and what that may entail..." He said, solemnly looking over to fluttershy's unconscious body resting near the burning house. Shaking his head slowly in a disappointed gesture, he looked back over to Strix, and started to finish his monologue. " I have come to rectify a great deal of many perversions to both political and supernatural balance. and I shall begin my endeavor here. My name is Dran. I have come from an excessive distance. And I... Am most certainly not jubilant in regards to what I have observed." He ended with that closing statement. Who was this this Dran fellow really, and why concern himself with the woes of others when he himself seemed like an insatiably indifferent being, and... If he had truly traversed a great distance in an attempt to remedy these mistakes, then what did that really mean for Equestria, and the world? Even if strix were to ask himself these things, he would not have time to demand an answer, for Dran had begun to cast whatever spell he was concocting. " Thou souls whom hath lost thine coil and remain shackled because of unjust roil wander not formless only but to fade I grant thee reprieve in the form of shade." As Dran completed the incantation of this seemingly exotic spell, Multiple, small beams of light shot from his horn and began reaching for the floating orbs around him. one by one, these beams struck the dozens of orbs, and at that point, the orbs had begun flying lower to the ground and begun... Expanding into various shapes and sizes. When it was all said and done, all the orbs had disappeared, and were astonishingly replaced by what appeared as white glowing, translucent animals that stood behind Dran. Noticeably to his left, a small rabbit with wide eyes and a sullen look upon its face stared at the fallen Fluttershy, as many of the others did as well. birds, turtles, even a bear or two. there were animals of all kinds. " These... are the souls that were lost in this very blaze. Their cry of distress caused me to quicken my journey. They have unresolved dealings in this world, and for them to pass on to the other side, must conclude their business in the mortal plane." __________________________- [LOREC] The gargantuan minotaur reached the base of the hill, where the other had been sitting. Breathing a tad bit heavily, he looked up at the other minotaur who was sitting at its peak. Speaking out loud, Lorec throws his voice loudly upward toward this commanding presence. " Where are we.... And who are you? from the armor, I take it that you are a Saduarian as well? Have I... passed away?" ​Without even turning to stand, this Minotaur answered Lorec shortly, putting up one of his hands nonchalantly, as if he were leading a regiment of soldiers and telling them to halt. " Wait for your sworn to arrive..... Then you'll know. And quit acting like such a worried little runt. A 'taur your size ought to be the meanest of them all."

[uNKNOWN] The stranger, still in complete control of his faculties, kept that grin across his gait as he turned his head back towards Strix slowly. chuckling in somewhat of a ghastly manner, who couldn't help but seem legitimately entertained at the griffon's musings. " Oh, a ruthless mercenary who is actually afraid to cut the throat of one who was sincerely offering his neck? Are you actually an adherent of the law, or maybe..." The stranger ceased all matter of joyous laughing and returned to his stoic, death-like gaze. While his eyes and hair suggested old age, his facial features would absolutely convince any that he was no older than 35 at the most. Was it because he suffered from some sort of unbearable stress and was in fact, losing his mind and causing him to seemingly age rapidly.... or was there another cause? " You sense a fate worse than death being the only outcome of attempting to take my life?" He paused, and became silent. The swathe of flame and burning debris reaching a crackling crescendo that tore into the silence of the area. The stranger only drilled the griffon with a piercing gaze, suggesting that he were waiting for something to happen between them. And it would be at this interval of first contact, that eldritch would morph into some form of dementia, coming from the unknown unicorn. He broke the silence, slowly building up his grin again. " Oh, Strix Hellbeak... you should have seen the look on your face moments ago. For the briefest moment, you actually thought I was a legitimate threat to your existence! You've nothing to fear from me. 'twas but a lark, a little... test from myself, to you. And I must say, you performed quite well. As for what I was testing, well.... Avert your gaze to those around me." He spoke of the floating orbs as if they were actual, living beings. Who was this pony? and was he truly trustworthy, or mad? ________________________________________________ [LOREC] The fog, now starting to lift quickly as he scurried towards the hill at his fastest possible running speed, no longer inhibited Lorec's vision to a great degree. As the sky brightened all around them, one could not help but take in the grandeur and magnificence of this apparent haven for souls. The hill Lorec was running for was in the middle of a grassland, serene and peaceful. Lush with green prairie grass, It seemingly complemented the sky and gave one a sense of serenity. And on that hill.... sat a figure, sitting and the grass and turned away from Lorec. It was a figure that, from a distance, was quite pale and clad in black armor. A warrior? the figure was definitely a Minotaur. However, his coloration was quite strange, given that pale hides are actually quite rare among the Minotaur species. could he be Saduarian, like Lorec?

[uNKNOWN] Seeing his blade brandished before the burning abode, The stranger only greeted him with a show of teeth in the form of an eager smile, as if he were in control of the entire situation, knowing something that Strix did not. This one was interesting. Possibly... Worth his time. " I'm afraid that I haven't heard of you before. And that probably means that you are very mediocre in your profession. Seeing as you are rather brutish and lacking of a respectable vocabulary along with bearing armaments... Then I wish to parlay an educated guess that you must be of the mercenary trade?" He took a step closer, his smile only widening and becoming increasingly disturbing. " Do you wish to kill me, Strix Hellbeak? Do you wish to leave brand upon my neck with your sword? Perhaps..... savor the moment as the blood flees my body, and you find release in purging my coil of its soul?......." The stranger lifted back the hood, revealing a mane of deathly gray. Under his eyes, wrinkles could be seen, possibly due to some sort of stress, and only added to the tired, deceased feeling coming from the pony. And to top it off, he was a very pale blue. Again, he did not seem like one of the living, almost. As if that were not perplexing enough, once he had drawn back the hood... He turned his head away from Strix, and towards fluttershy slightly. However, his gaze was fixed upon Strix, and that ghastly grin was not disappearing. And at this moment, strange would evolve to eldritch. " Oh, how you would love to end my miserable little existence, correct?.... Perhaps, allow the temptation to overcome you just this one time? Prehaps maybe you will find release from the anger of your failure to apprehend and collect on the perpetrator's bounty? Maybe.... Baptize yourself in the flow of crimson to forget the pain of letting the one you care for suffer in anguish because you were not adequate enough to aid her?...." It was completely obvious that this stranger was possibly even more unhinged than the one who had set the house ablaze, for he was offering his neck to Strix... And making no effort to hide or conceal a weapon. This stranger was legitimately allowing Strix to a have a swing at his jugular vein. And he did all of this with an honest smile upon his gait. _____________ [LOREC] Lorec, not obeying the pleas of Tyra, would disappear into the fog, running towards the source rapidly. As he did so, the sky seemed to brighten in the area, and was becoming a quaint conglomeration of beautiful shading. Blue, purple, violet... All in the sky, giving a dusk-like feel. And what was baffling was that there were auroras beginning to form in circular patterns in this sky, with a great star dead center overhead, crowned by this phenomena of light. The mist was fading, and Tyra would be able to see that Lorec was running toward what seemed like a hill.....

( in the threshold of dreams.) [ LOREC] Lorec tried to force a smile, but failed miserably in the endeavor. " while this is true.... We left behind so many. I'm sorry, Tyra. It was I who dragged us both to-" Before Lorec could even finish that statement, a loud, earth-shattering roar could be heard, seemingly from somewhere far into the void. A very familiar roar to Lorec. " Viruden.....?" He questioned. Looking at Tyra, and then in the general direction of the roar, which was to his right, he had no time to think about what was happening, as something else was heard. A voice, rasp, male. Full of power and pride. Minotaur perhaps? In his forties as Lorec was? It resounded even louder than the strange roar, and beckoned from the same direction. " du agerar patetiskt. komma in i min åsikt , så jag kan se dig!" Lorec, eyes widening, spoke under his breath. " the old language...." Without even Batting a look towards Tyra, he began walking through the misty haze, and towards whatever creature was beckoning them in some strange tongue. ________ [uNKNOWN] Answering Strix in a condescending tone as if he were disappointed, and yet not surprised to hear of this failure. " Dealt with? But I do not see a corpse... Nor do I have the murderer's soul.... So you confronted, and failed to obtain retribution? Such a shame..." He said, giving Strix a somewhat evil eye. " and typical of your kind, no less."

[LOREC] Recognizing the voice that answered his demand, Lorec's eyes widened and his nostrils flared up at the realization of who it was. Tyra was here with him. Searching his way through the fog and eventually pinpointing her outline against vision-obscuring mist, Lorec ran to her, excited, and yet... Afraid. If they were where he thought they were.... Then that had meant that both had passed away. " Tyra! I... This place... Are you merely a figment of my imagination, or are you... Really you? Because if we are both truly here, then that must mean..." He hung his head down in shame, his ears lowering as well. " that I've killed us both..." ________________________ [uNKNOWN] The unicorn showed no emotion to Strix's answer, continuing to stare into his gait with his cold, unnerving gaze. The orbs continued to dance in midair around the stranger. " And you did nothing to stop it?"