With Elise and Anastaria and Barion remaining, Kairos stepped aboard the raft with Moritas and gestured for Miritas to join him. As they crossed he questioned the raftman about the ruined settlement, the river and what lay over the other side

Ember

Ember roared and with it called forth her Titanic Cleave, the wave of destructive energy emitted from her roar added to her second call of Titanic Cleave as she beat her wings.

The double emission of this Major Power struck the combined swipers that had formed as one head on, twice. The first wave seemed to halt them mid air while the last strike struck the larger formation and battered them, the bodies of the Swipers falling down to the ground as dead birds would, Ember watching them fall as she now was safe from their attacks

Ember causes 4 Damage to 24 Swipers with Titanic Cleave #1
Ember causes 4 Damage to 24 Swipers with Titanic Cleave #2
Ember used 50 Essence to call forth 2 x Titanic Cleave
Ember kills 24 x Swipers
Ember gains 120 Essence from the kill of 24 x Swipers


Elise, Kairos, Anastaria, Xeslin, Moritas, Miritas & Barion

Kairos, Moritas and Miritas made their way on the raft, waiting for the rower to bring them across. The lizardman saw them, nodding as he answered the questions of the others quickly before making his way to the raft, seeming to not want to make the three wait (nor anger them).

Rizz pointed to the area all around him in answer to Anastaria's question.

We are everywhere and no where, not seen nor heard for we are not worth the time of those that walk here. We survive for that is what we do. We do as told for that is what we do. I thank you for your words of kindness but they are wasted on one as I for I am not worthy of such things.

With that he bowed and walked to the raft, taking the first three across and leaving Xeslin, Elise, Anastaria and Barion for the next trips.

The travel across the river was smooth, Kairos noting that Rizz seemed to concentrate a lot on what he was doing, straining with the handle that controlled the direction the ship would be going to with more strain than seemed necessary seeing as to how calm the river was. Once on the other side he drew the boat closer to the shore to, stepping into the water and pulling the boat itself. He was stronger than he showed, pulling the boat atop the land to have you all simply walk off onto dry land.

He thanked Kairos many times for the payment of food he had given, mentioning that while he does not wish to impose fear nor thoughts of weakness or judgement upon them that they should be careful as the lands are not safe for would be travellers.

He said this as he was floating off, not leaving much opportunity for you to pursue the point. As Kairos turned about he saw that Moritas was already off towards the ruins of the city, not even seeming to be wanting to wait for anyone else to join him. Miritas stood close by, watching Moritas walk off while turning to Kairos.

Shall we await the others or shall we make our way to the ruins? I ask only if you would have company upon your travels.

On the other side of the river, Elise, Barion, Xeslin and Anastaria waited for the boat to return.

At Elises request, Barion simply smiled his boyish grin and nodded, signaling for her to join him as they began to look about the ruins of the place. Xeslin and Anastaria remained present or followed dependant on their mood.

The ruins of the place seemed to hint at this being a porters place where ships would come and land and restock their wares. It seemed that the place had seen much better days with buildings being in ruin due to lack of maintenance while others were simply falling apart. The place was old, most of the wood seeming to have rotten away while one of the larger buildings seemed to have burnt on one half of the building while the other side of it had then fallen to ruin due to neglect.

Barion looked about with little interest really, taking his time to look out for any dangers while keeping up with any conversation being had.

Looking about more deeply at the buildings there seemed to be warehouses that had stood here at once, as well as some resident houses. All were in disrepair or beyond use. The larger building that had partially burnt was the most recent of the buildings here, the stone being of a different style as compared to some of the others and the wood not having rotted as of yet (but still in bad repair)

No one present here seemed alive by the looks of it.

Talramirez & Diamytron

Diamytron nodded, accepting their travel to the village up ahead.

Approaching they saw that the village was made up roughly of 30 buildings of various sizes. The buildings were made of wood while the rooftops were lined with stone or metal plates, you were unsure due to the fact you had never seen such a product before.

The village was made in a circle, with the central building being a ball shaped building that was cut in half at the base thus forming a dome. It had no windows and only one set of doors leading in or out of it. It was made of white plastered stones.

Thew road around the building saw other buildings of smaller stature but larger size than the others buildings away from the center made of wood. These were square or rectangular in shape and had one or two stories with windows and doors as most buildings would have. 6 such buildings were present in the second circle and then 10 buildings on the circle after that and 13 buildings in the circle after that.

The village had no walls and they saw people were about, walking and doing their business. As the duo approached they heard a bell toll three times and saw the folks run into their buildings, probably a warning of their approach.

I believe we have been spotted, Diamytron stated matter of factly. His deadpan statement would have been  slightly humorous had it not been stated as fact.

Tal gave a bit of a smile at the declaration, nodding in agreement at the obvious statement of fact. The people's reaction was noteworthy of course, but also something to potentially be concerned about he felt. They took great pains to warn of approaching strangers, which meant they took their own safety as a matter of importance. At the same time, that also meant there were indeed dangers to be aware of in the region and that the people here may or may not be interested in dialogue. They had been going about their business before, however, so that denoted they were civilized and potentially open to diplomacy.


"Best to assure them we mean no harm all things considered I think. They may be able to tell us a great deal more about what is ahead," he pointed out. And the Fire, was an undertone that was left unsaid. The Fire ahead was their purpose for coming after all, so learning what they could might be worth a brief side trip.

Tal continued forward a short ways, but stopped once he was a respectful distance from the town and stood waiting. Someone intent on harm to the town or its residents would go charging in presumably. Waiting, however, would show those present they meant no harm and were willing to let the townspeople regard them for a time and send out someone to address them. To encourage that, he called out.

"Good day, people of this town. We mean you no harm," he declared.

Ember roared, triumphant, before diving after the falling Swipers to collect their souls, quite quickly crushing them and dissolving them, accepting their essence into herself as she breathes a soft sigh of relief, though a little sad to see their aspects and natures simply disappear, she realizes the importance of their essence.


Once she had collected the essence she flapped her wings, flying closer to the ground as she inspected the river, considering if it would be worth joining with the others before simply huffing softly in annoyance as she began to fly over the wide river. It would be a pain to join them on such a small raft, so she would meet up with them on the other side, figuring she should get to know her sibling gods somewhat, even if it was in her nature to go at things alone.

In reply to Overlord (msg # 27):

"I wonder why this place has remained abandoned," Elise said. "Rizz said a war destroyed it, but clearly time has been the greater enemy of these buildings." She put her hands on her hips as she surveyed the ruins with a frown on her face. "This place was clearly once clearly Desirable -- a place of great trade and profit. And yet no one rebuilds? Something does not add up."

She paused to look at Barion. "Clearly enough people come through that Rizz found it worth waiting here to make his offer. Why aren't there others? Fear isn't the primary motivating Passion of everyone... is it?" She looked horrified by that thought.

Anastaria frowned slightly as Rizz spoke of their people. They seemed like survivors who had lived a harsh life full of trauma and fear to build the ones they live now with such a sad response. Why was it they deemed themselves so unworthy? Was it something that had done or was it simply how they had been treated and ingrained upon them. Anastaria went to speak in response to Rizz but the words seemed to fail her as she stopped and shook her head in disprovement.

Anastaria looked at the river calmly as the others left on the raft. Mainly wondering how long swimming across would take and if it had any strong currents that may lay in wait. Debating internally on when the raft returned if she should swim or traverse through the light so that the others who remained could fit. As she did, Anastaria cough sight of Ember as she lowered in altitude and crossed overhead with baring wing flaps.

Looking to Xeslin then as Barion and Elise walked off together to the ruins, Anastaria spoke softly, "What a sad mortal and way to live. On the scraps within the ruins of the war torn past. At the mercy of everything and everyone who passes them, lowering themselves without shame in such a way is far from humble or honest. While they live they hold the power for so much more."

Anastaria took a few steps to look at the area around her as she surveyed it lightly. Her voice lowered with sincerity and a hint of sadness, "I think I might stay here with these people longer. See what all I can learn and provide. Tell the others to not wait up for me and that I choose to remain here for a time should they look for me. If I leave it would be in search of reconnecting with you all."

Bowing her head as she gave a wave, Anastaria began her search for others like Rizz. Attuning her focus to her awarement of everything around and signs of the people. Occasionally calling out for them.

Xeslin grunted in agreement at Anastaria's comments.

"Yes it is a pitiable state of existence but such is the fragility of mortal affairs. They are but transient beings upheld through dent of their strength of arm and intellect with the occasional boons of technology and lesser magics, if any. Yet is that not why we exist? To uplift and protect them. To make right what so easily can be unmade."

With no further conversation or true motivation in the matter Xeslin rose his hand and drew on his power for the first time in this place. Blossoming out in every direction from him The Land Provided

“Walk with me to the ruins”, suggested Kairos, “what is your Realm like? Are you struggling with it, and it’s mastery? Something challenges me in mine”

Ember

Ember dove down, catching the falling souls before they would gather themselves and escape into the wild. Caught, she dissolved them all to gather their essence, the low ranked souls unable to give off any aspects/natures due to their meagerness.

Ember gathers 240 Essence from 24 Swipers (Rank 0)

She then dove and landed on the other side of the river to await the arrival of the others seeing as Kairos, Miritas and Moritas were already off to the ruins.

Kairos and Miritas

Moritas had already gone ahead, not bothering to wait for Kairos or Miritas and having them have to run a bit to catch up with him.

Kairos and Miritas, instead, took to walking towards the ruins.

The ruins of the buildings on this side of the river were different, seeing them as only bits and pieces of what must have been a community of 20 or so buildings. Only the dock remained and even it was not truly safe to walk upon. The wood of the buildings that were here were but shards: burnt and rotting. With nothing much to see here, Miritas nodded at Kairos suggestion and they made their way towards the ruins, talking a bit as they did.

My realm? responded Miritas. He paused for a moment, seeming to contemplate his response.

It is a realm that is not unlike Dakalnar or this one, with trees and land and water and mountains. Yet the land at the moment is in a state of perpetual night, with clouds covering even the light of the moon during its cycle. It makes for long shadows when their is light and beasts and plant life akin to this type of lighting.

As with anything, life adapts and I have come across many plants and animals able to make their own light or see in other spectrums. A fascinating adaptation by the realm and its ilk.

Yet I find the contesting efforts of the beings on my realm somewhat troublesome. Perhaps it is my ego but it is as if I am fighting with myself.

He went silent then, as if thinking to himself or not wanting to give out more info for the moment.

What about you, Kairos? What is it that challenges you in your realm?

Elise, Anastaria, Xeslin & Barion

As Elise spoke and questioned openly to Barion he answered with a shrug of his shoulders, seeming to be more interested in ensuring no dangers were present.

Rebuilding that which is destroyed and of no importance is a waste of resources and time.

Barion kept walking with Elise, looking about for anything of interest and as they neared the larger "newer" burnt building he began to lift some of the debris to look at what was underneath. The ease with which he did so showed the might Barion held, even Elise noting she would have had to put some effort in lifting what he was. He threw the debris about non chalantly out of the way, making sure not to send it in the direction of any of the other gods. He stopped suddenly, looking at the ground.

What have we here?

Clearing what was atop it he bent down to look at what he had found. Under the debris was the remains of the floor but under some of the dirt Elise could now make out the tell tale signs of Arcanic energy. Markings on a steel plate in the ground could be seen, the markings showing off as Arcanic energy to her and probably Barion as well.

There was no handle, just a plate of steel in the ground. Barion removed some of the dirt around it and saw it was part of a larger section of steel underneath.

I think there is a box or room or something under here, said Barion.

Anastaria, in the meantime, had been looking for others like Rizz. She found a few, hiding in some holes in the ground near the river bank where the earth was softer. They hid and did not come out, seeming afraid and when they saw her staring they took out broken jars or pieces of wood and a spoon and a small bent fork, offering it to her as they muttered : Take. Let live and take, please.

Xeslin, for his part, drew upon the energies of his domain to call forth his major power. As he pulled on the area to grow the fauna in the area he felt, for the first time, resistance to his calling of his power. It was not that it was not present or blocked from him but it was as if it was far away, having him have to force the connection with his domain in what he was attempting to do with more effort. While he would normally just pull upon his domain without effort, as if it was before him, he now seemed to have to drag it from miles away with a large rope, pulling it to him.

What normally would take seconds took almost a minute, the pull on his domain growing in strength as he forced it. As it came forth, though, he felt a rush go through him as his domain flowed into him and then out from him, his being itself lighting up for a moment with the energy of his domain.

This caught the attention of everyone present, watching as Xeslins efforts came to bare with fauna sprouting everywhere around him. To Xeslins surprise, the fauna that sprouted was even more lively than on Dakalnar or his own realm. Where there had been dry earth or small grass was now covered with high grass, trees and large plants, some of which he had never seen before. The spread of growth was rapid, more rapid now than he had seen in the other realms.

Anastaria and Elise both saw various lizard folk come out of holes as trees or plants grew from where they had been hiding. While Anastaria had found one small family of 5 there were now over 50 coming out from various hiding places, watching as the plants grew with fruits and other edible plants upon them.

They watched in amazement, falling to their knees in supplication before the trees, Xeslin and the others present. Mutterings of "thank you" and "please let us have some" and "we are not worthy" were common. Yet one of them could be heard muttering something different which caught Anastaria's ears as she was closest.



Talramirez & Diamytron

The duo made there way closer to the village and stopped about 50 feet out from the building perimeter. Calling out they then waited.

It took a minute or so before someone came out. Holding a shovel in both hands he, and 5 others, began to make their way to the godly duo. Tal could see a few faces peerings towards them from windows. The people here were not like any humanoid they had seen so far: They were humanoid frogs, their head looking like toads or frogs of varying colors from yellow to brown to green while their legs were like that of humans while their hands were like humans but with only 4 fingers that ended like those of a toad.

They approached, dressed in clothes that showed they were people who worked the land or other such labors. They all carried a "weapon" of some kind that was actually a tool : Shovel, hammer, broom etc.

As they got closer they stopped some 15 feet from the duo.

What do you want? We have nothing more to give and nothing to offer worth the effort. If you promise to leave we can offer a bucket of water but nothing more.

One of them held up a bucket with water in it.

"Nightmares", offered Kairos in return to Miritas' question, "Like you my realm has echoes of this one and the other. Like you, I seem to contest to with myself... Dust and ashes, rather the the brightness of dreams..."

He smiled and shrugged, wandering the ruins and casting his eye over them, "Perhaps there is opportunity to ... theorise about those things that assail us"

"Perhaps even a chance to work together", he offfered, "Darkness. Dreams. Fears... there is a certain overlap, is there not?"

As Anastaria searched and came across the hiding people, she would shake her head and deny taking any of their items. Speaking softly that she did not mean them any harm only wishing to talk. However she would go from person to person as she looked around. Understanding better how it was they were hiding and the homes they now made even if she didn't find them all.

While they were less receptive to her words as of current, Anastaria was taken back by the sudden surge of power within Xeslin. As she looked, sudden and rapid fertile growths began sprouting heavily all about the area. It coaxed many of these locals out as she now saw well just how many may be around. Even she was caught in wonder and amazement at Xeslin's ability. Reassuring and welcoming any who approached her personally as she pointed them to her brother divine with a sense of pride in him and his gracious kindness. There was also a building frustration bubbling within the young goddess. Anastaria almost wanted to yell out to no one in particular but the whole of them in an almost scolding manor like that of a friend or mother. Yet knew it would be received poorly and have the opposite effect. They needed to be guided more gently she figured.

However, Anastaria's pointed ears shifted as they picked up the only outliers' words from the usual speaking of these people. Seemingly snapping her clean into the moment, Anastaria approached the lizardman swiftly as she caught sight of them. Lifting her hands lightly in a non-aggressive way as she spoke with enthusiasm, "Excuse me, yes you! Hi and hello there! My name is Anastaria, what might yours be?

I couldn't help but overhear what it was you said. You and your people seem to know what we are, no? So that must mean there were more like us here before, yes? Would you mind telling me what all you know and what might this curse you spoke of be, in exchange for being granted this bounty. A small yet more than fair price to pay if you consider it. I would most assuredly be appreciative and return the favor further." Anastaria took the opportunity then to try and coax out a much needed conversation. As their lack of information was more detrimental than not.

In reply to Overlord (msg # 34):

Elise blinked at his comment. "A lifeline of trade and communication is 'of no importance'?" she said, confused. "Why wouldn't they want the wealth and power that comes with that?" Even still, she moved on, frowning at the building around her -- until Barion noticed the steel plate. She nodded at his assessment, but did not touch it.

"Do you recognize the type of Arcana on it?" she asked, even as she studied it herself, attempting to identify it's type. In fact, it was only the sudden deluge of divine energy, followed by the excessive growth of plants, that drew her attention away from the buried curiosity. Cocking her head, she watched the lizardfolk as they emerged. For a second, she watched the lizardfolk as they shuffled and muttered, without taking the food -- food that they Desired so much that she didn't even need to rely upon her Divine Senses to see it. Then, she turned her attention back to the steel plate, studying it for any further clues about its size or origin.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:19, Tue 08 Nov 2022.

Xeslin flexed his fingers, testing them after his exertion. There was something strange about this place and its distance from the powers divine. Perhaps that was why it had gotten into the state that it had. He wasn't sure in truth but it was something he would likely investigate in time. For the interim, however, he turned his attention to the mortals who had come from hiding. He rose his voice as he spoke so that all could hear him.

"Take of this bounty freely mortals. I, Xeslin, God of Fertility and Evolution, bless you with it. For 4 months it shall grow with my divine power. Afterwards it shall be upon you to maintain this fertile land."

Xeslin, was of course, curious about some of the novel plants that had grown in the area and desperately wished he had his satchel in this realm as he did among the humans. Suppressing a sigh he dismissed his own labors and turned his attention back to the river. He would travel across next and see what there was to be seen of this place further beyond. His plants would be here later, baring something truly devastating or powerful interfering.

Tal cast a curious, questioning glance over to Diamytron at the words of the one addressing them, raising a hand in a gesture of passing on the offer as he spoke.

"Rest easy, friend, we are not here to collect or request anything. We travel to view the Flame more clearly, having awoken to this Realm just a short while ago. We come from there," he noted, gesturing back to the place they had found themselves on arriving in the Nexus. He hoped that it conveyed enough of their origins to put the people at ease.


"I...take it that others have been here in recent times to demand tribute from you in some manner?" he asked.

Ember glanced down at the four gods when they arrived, sitting on her haunches and watching them silently for a while before her form shifted into something more amicable, taking the guise of a crimson mariend as she walks alongside them, her eyes glancing up at the lizardfolk as they seemed to crawl out of the woodwork.

she gave a soft growl of annoyance at their presence as they surrounded them, but she took no action one way or another, they didn't seem to be a threat yet, and she could tell that her companions wished to interact with them, even if she didn't particularly like it.

After a while of following them along, she finally spoke, her voice still deep and resonant as it had been while in her true form "I hope you don't mind me travelling alongside you, It seems this realm has dangers I did not expect, I figure it would be wise to stick together, for all our sakes" She comments as she continues to keep pace with the groups, still eyeing the lizardfolk suspiciously.

Elise noticed the arrival of the draconic goddess that had rushed off shortly after they'd all formed, and wondered what she meant by "dangers I did not expect." Given the size and ferocity of her form, Elise surmised that she must have encountered something truly powerful -- especially given how much more humble she appeared now as compared to earlier.

"Welcome," she finally said. "We are... passing time until the ferryman returns from the other side of the river." She glanced at Barion, then back at Ember. "What did you find? Or, perhaps, what found you?"

She grimaces softly and her head softly "Pests." She said flatly, still annoyed they troubled her so much "I was able to deal with them, but wounds between realms add up, and so it's better I don't continue alone, and I happen to be quite capable in combat, so I should be able to help your group as well"

In reply to Ember (msg # 42):

Elise clearly wanted to ask more about these pests, but seeing Ember's reluctance to discuss the situation, she instead retreated -- at least for the time being. Instead, she gave Ember a brief overview of what had occurred at the settlement so far -- including the information revealed by their discussion with Rizz, the events that had brought the lizardfolk out of hiding, and the search that had found the steel plate in the floor that Barion had found.

"So... what do you make it?" she asked at the end, clearly referring to the plate and its Arcana.

Kairos and Miritas

Miritas thought for a moment.

Perhaps. Our domains do overlap on a lot of aspects, that is true.

He paused, hesitant. They had only just meant and acknowledging the need for help was something that seemed to bring a level of anxiety even among gods. Yet Kairos had broached the subject, stating his willingness for it which seemed to bring ease to Miritas.

You propose an idea worth exploring. What is it that hinders you in your realm? Perhaps I can be of assistance and then I can tell you of mine and see if you can be of aid.

Talramirez & Diamytron

Diamytron returned Tal's curious look but let him take the lead on talks, observing instead.

The Flame? Huh, sure then, go on if that is what you were seeking. We have nothing for your here.

At his next point he nodded.

Yes, tribute. More like mandatory requests as they take anything we have in surplus for themselves. If we have little to offer they take that which we can't give. Been worse since their new leader took over.

Yalik, yeah.

Yeah, COUNT Yalik. He declares these lands his now. Took over from the last one who ruled over the area. He took the title of Count to give himself more status I guess. We can'T fight him and his troops. They are simply to many and strong for us to fight.

The others nodded but the one before you shook his head.

Listen, sorry to bother you with all this talk and sorry for our initial reaction. Not many folks travel these parts anymore, not since The Fall took place. Now this who place is a hardship to live in. Anyhow, if you came from there just be glad you managed to get out. The ruins of the Metropolis have scavengers running about it who will not hesitate to jump upon the likes of the two of you. As for the Flame of Ravenos, nothing really to see. Its just a Flame in the sky. Word was it was meant to protect us all but no one in living memory truly knows the details of it all, especially not since The Fall.

What is The Fall?, inquired Diamytron.

The Fall? Where have you been? I don't know the details but it was the Fall of the Nexus when the gods either ran off or were killed, leaving us all to fight for ourselves. That Flame was meant to protect us but without the gods the land began to change. I don't know the details as such, none of do. To long ago.

Well one person would know.

The one who had been speaking paused, nodding.

Yeah she would. Nexa. She has been around a LONG time. She knows a LOT of stuff. She is left pretty much alone by the Count and others like him but doesn't like to be disturbed.

Where can she be found?

Well like I said, she doesn't like to be disturbed but if your adamant on finding her... she can be found north of here in a house she built for herself on a small island the lies within Lake Tashika. It lies at the base of a mountain. Like I said, she doesn'T like visitors so be warned.

Elise, Anastaria, Xeslin, Ember & Barion

Ember moved from one side of the Perpetuam to the other, joining the group that had not traversed the Perpetuam yet. As she landed she took on the form of a femaile Crimson Mariend.

Xeslin offered the bounty of the land to the lizardfolk present, their words of thanks and bows showing their gratitude and proclamation of his power. He walked to the perpetuam as Rizz approached, bringing the boat to shore and allowing Xeslin to embark and looking to see if any other would be joining Xeslin.

Anastaria for her part was preoccupied with the lizardfolks speech, questioning the one who had said a phrase that had caught her attention.

The lizardman looked at her, curious eyes looking at her as if not understanding what or why she was asking him this.

Know what you are? Of course, you are gods, born of the land and claimants to its people and  elements. You are caregivers and takers of life. You are builders and destroyers. You are the guides of mortals as well as those that rule above them. You are absolute. You are Divine.

As he spoke this the others around him nodded, bowing to her and the other gods nearby. Some began to pick the fruits, eating some and handing it to others to feed them as well. The lizardfolk were a people with nothing to their name but they took care of their own, not one looking to take more than he needed and helping those that had a hard time helping themselves.

Anastaria pressed the question of the curse, the one questioned seeming confused at first but answering as best he could.

The curse? It is a saying. When The Fallen were gone the land was changed. The curse. Where the land had always given it did not. Where the land had always supplied with our needs it did not anymore. We had failed the gods and thus were punished.

He pointed to the trees, the others nodding and sounding praise to Xeslin.

But the gods return to aid us! Xeslin feeds us and his allies walk among us! The land giveth again!

Xeslin heard the chants of his name, the admiration of his bounty appreciated and praised by those present.

Elise, for her part kept talks with Barion, surprised by his answer but Barion simply shrugged as he answered her question about the wants of mortals: Maybe because it is not what they want.

His attention was more on the plate though, looking at the Arcana and shaking his head.

I am not yet talented enough with Tradition to be able to recognize any of this. Then again it is a plate of steel. It may be a challenge but I may be able to rip it off. There are seams around its frame so it may be a door.


Yet the noise of the chanting lizardfolk and influx of divine energy as forest and fauna grew all about the area had them both turn to watch Xeslins work and the effects on the people present. Elise simply kept an eye, her main attention on the plate as Barion simply smirked at the lizardfolks reactions. Mortals are funny, aren't they?


As Ember and Elise spoke, Barion perked up at the mention of pests but when pointed out that they were airborne he grunted in annoyance and nodded, returning his feeling of the edges of the plate before him, unable to truly get a hold on either side.

Rizz watched the forest that had taken hold of the area and looked at Xeslin with awe.

You did this? You are truly a god! Can I?

He pointed to a fruit nearby, Xeslin nodding as Rizz went forth, taking some and eating it. His eyes rolled back in his head at the flavor and he devoured it quickly before kneeling before Xeslin.

Thank youz, Lord Xeslin. Thank you for bounty. We are not worthy but we thank you.

If no one else was coming forth, Rizz was prepared to bring Xeslin to the other side on his own.

Elise pondered what she had seen and heard, and an impulsive thought took hold. She grinned at Barion, then moved toward the crowd. She cleared her throat, and began singing, clearly and loudly, so that everyone within the area could easily hear her words.

You feared that all was lost,
Providence failed,
naught but death
awaited.

And yet now Hope is reborn!
Life returns!
Your fates shall change
if you wish it.

What shall be your guiding Passion?
What do you Desire?
To cower in fear forevermore,
or to secure the future
for your children?

Fertility of the Earth to feed you,
Strength to watch over you,
Destruction to rain upon your foes,
Redemption is available for all!

We can help your lives improve,
We are here to help you!
Your fates shall change,
if you wish it.

What shall be your guiding Passion?
What do you Desire?
To cower in fear forevermore,
or to secure prosperity
for your children?

It would have been easier and more expedient, Elise knew, to draw upon the power of her Domains and move their hearts directly. Somehow, however, she suspected that although convincing them through only the use of song and lyric would be more difficult, it would also be more impactful -- and potentially more successful long term. She just hoped that her sibling gods would be up for her idea... especially given that she hadn't exactly explained anything before launching into the proposal to the lizardfolk.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:30, Wed 09 Nov 2022.

Tal listened on to the locals, his face thoughtful as they relayed the current dispensation of the area and in part the nature of the Flame. A means to protect it seems, keeping this area safe, but with the gods apparently having disappeared some time ago that means was lost. But, perhaps, not forgotten.


"We shall go and visit this Nexa," Tal declared, looking to Diamytron  to confirm he agreed with Tal's thoughts.

"To answer your question, we have just recently awoken, so have much to learn of what has passed before our coming. Be at peace. Know that things will, ultimately, change soon. Hopefully for the better. The gods have returned," he proclaimed, giving those gathered a gracious smile as he looked to his companion.

"Shall we see to this Nexa and learn more of what has happened? She may be able to shed some light on the history of this place.. and perhaps even tell us more of the Flame."

Kairos considered for a moment, studying Miritas thoughtfully; he shared the other's concern, but perhaps demonstrating vulnerability was the best step forward with a divinity whose portfolio included Fear

He offered a half-smile, then began, "It seems we are bound to our Realm, much as we are to our Domains. But, for me at least, it is not ... harmonious. Something resists, perhaps the Realm, perhaps another presence. Certainly, I must strive against an opposing force. You can see how my Aura is tattered even now, where I wrestle with that presence made real..."

Dismissing his injuries, he shrugged, "It is less with the physical threat that I am concerned, but the metaphysical nature of the what is behind it. It appeared when I woke, became flesh, and I suspect it manifesting similar for others... a commonality we all share, us newly awoken gods, and hence how we deal with it may have a commonality too"

He trailed off, considering once more, "For now, I suspect it is a fragment of the Realm, perhaps my opposite, brought forth in balance to my own birth..."

Anastaria smiled as the man she pressed had answered her questions, yet she did nothing to dispel his confusion on why she asked them. Only resolute that their existence and make were known within the lands of the Nexus unlike as within Dalkanar.

Whisking herself a fruit nearby she took an ample bite so that she might satiate her curiousness of this land's bounty. Yet so too did she aid in handing out food to those who needed it.

Those that bowed before her she bid to rise, raising her hands in slight protest. As this gift was one from Xeslin and not her. Pondering on the answers she was given, Anastaria began to theorize that with the leave of the divine the lands eventually drained without their combined co-existence. It seems the Nexus would need to be properly tended to.

What had happened in ages past seemed to carry down their weight upon those who now resided within existence here. A burden not fair to the people. The lizardfolk each seemed to bid themselves unworthy yet beyond gracious of their aid.

Anastaria seemed to want to speak out to the gathering of the people, yet smiled when Elise's voice could be heard carrying through the winds and trees around her. Listening carefully to her song as she nodded along with her tail swishing about gleefully. As it ended, Anastaria clapped loudly with pride.

Anastaria pained to sing along with her sister, however lacked the refined skill or talent with her voice. Instead waiting for those around to finish their response to the song before speaking up loud enough for all to hear, yet with a gentle tone, "I am Anastaria, Goddess of Light and Redemption. Tell me your woes and pains of heart. Share with me the burdens of your soul and that which grasps your heart and steps frozen. Let us reclaim within our palms each your brilliant lights and worth. Let us shine brightly together to cast away the shadows that lurk on each your paths. I bid you to travel forward out of despair and into a future iron crafted with the likeness of the stars' beauty."

The young goddess didn't seem so resolute or in a rush to cross the river. If the others would leave without her, she waved them off. Promising to catch up eventually, instead she put her focus to those before her who could use her kindness. Consoling their hearts and beings instead. More resolute to tend to them and those that could use her aid.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:24, Thu 17 Nov 2022.

Xeslin moved to the boatman and took his seat. At mention of partaking in the food he gave the shallowest inclination of his head and watched passively as the mortal partook of the bounty. It was appropriate for mortals to benefit from the actions of gods. There would come a time when he would need to benefit from the actions of mortals after all. A great dance, a cycle of debt and obligation.

Kairos and Miritas

Miritas listened and nodded in understanding.

I myself faced off against a foe I have just recently managed to fight off. She fled, the being that came forth against me. It was a deviation from my own Domains, somewhat entangled with it yet not so much so that it was part of it. An Entity, one that my Divine Senses could not fully divulge into more detail.

He paused as they walked, their approach to the ruins nearing.

Fear is often misunderstood, seen as something to cower from. Yet those that manage to rise against that which they fear become stronger and able to surmount almost impossible tasks.

This Entity was not like this. In fact it seemed to relish in the very horror and depravity that fear can bring upon those it preys upon, working to bring all of those it comes upon down to their knees and wishing nothing but eternal slumber to be hidden away from what it brings upon them.

I managed to make this abject creature evade, having it go off and hide deeper within my realm. I shall have to face it again at some point but for now I stand a ruler within a province of my realm, one that I can make my own.

As Kairos, Miritas seemed to flex as his own Divine Power increased in that moment almost in tandem with Kairos himself. He looked to Kairos, noting the gained power and nodded in recognition.

It seems we have both managed to deal with what we thought worrisome. It seems our fears were misplaced.

A slight chuckle escaped from Miritas as they kept walking.

Tell me about yours, Lord Kairos. How did you handle the one you had to deal with and how did he manifest himself?

===========================================

The duo reached the ruins and as they did they saw that it truly was that: ruins of an age gone by. The road led to a set of doors which were broken, one of them laying on the ground while the other was half open. It was huge, easily 100 feet in height and just as wide, with the second meaning the doorway had been 200 feet in width when fully open. As they approached they saw some movement: humanoids moving about. Lizardfolk were the more common race as they scurried about to hide from anyone close while the others were of various races unknown to the deities, moving into or out of the doorway of the ruins as they headed out into the wild of the Nexus.

None seemed to take particular attention to the duo as they approached the gates.

They noted that the doors had markings: faces unrecognizable to them due to their not knowing who they stood for or being too damage to BE recognized. They counted atleast 40 on the door that was still up, the other being face down on the ground not letting them view who it was that was depicted on them.

Entering they saw that within was some form of society. A society of scavengers and beggars and merchants trying to see wares. It was smelly and noisy as they entered the area. They felt many  bump into them, appologies coming forth yet they also noticed hands passing against their bodies as they moved through the crowd. They had nothing to have stolen from them, the pick pockets finding no treasure upon them.

On the main walkway they saw merchants of every kind, street vendors and those with little shops selling the same or something almost like the one being sold next to them Trinkets or low quality items were the main stay while relics found in the ruins were others: most broken or of no value unless for historical purposes.

Few buildings on the ground floor stood out but some in the distance did.

- A large Cathedral stood out close by, its pinnacle sticking out atop the buildings as the glass windows forming its top reflected the light of the flame in the distance.
- The Jade Citadel in the distance. It stood like a green flame within the city ruins.
- The Ebony Tower, also in the distance between the cathedral and the Jade citadel. It reflected nothing but the darkness of its stone.
- The Golden Oak: A large oak tree rising above the levels of buildings in what seemed like the middle of the city. Its size must be huge as the size of the city was days if not weeks of travel by foot. It stood in the middle, its leaves a deep amber in color as the light reflected upon its leaves and sparkled in the sky.

Talramirez & Diamytron

The duo set out in the direction they were pointed at, making their way towards the mountain where Lake Tashika was said to reside.

It took them 3 weeks to travel to it and when the approached it they saw that this place was serene in stature with the small breeze being just strong enough to cool someone from the heat yet not cool enough to make them cold. The lake was beautiful with the purity of the water showing as the light reflected upon it and one could see to the bottom of the lake with ease at the shores.

In the middle of the lake was a small island with a house laying upon it, smoke rising from a small chimney. The wood house had a shed behind it as well as logs piled up behind it for a fire. A rocking chair was on the porch at the front.

A rowboat was on the side of the island, attached to a rope that was tied to a dock. Getting across would mean flight or swimming as their was no boat on your side.

Elise, Anastaria, Xeslin, Ember & Barion

The group listened as Elise sang, her voice gathering the attention of all (even the gods who chose to). As she finished they all smiled, looking at the lizardfolk.

The lizardfolk smiled and clapped, some bowing when looked upon and not looking directly at the deities. While the group had shown benevolence, fear seemed the main sticking point for these people.

Xeslin coughed once, signalling he was ready to leave and with no one else joining him he was taken across to the other side alone as the others remained here.

Barion and Elise went on to study the plate door in the ground, Elise looking from time to time to the lizarfolk, while Anastaria worked with them more purposefully while Ember watched passively for now.

As she called to the lizardfolk to try and aid them move past their fears and woes and pain she was met with shakes of their heads, bows and fruit. The lizardfolk seemed more interested in the food and the bounty it brought than their own problems which they seemed to simply accept as being part of who they were.