Mercenary on the Winds

Jeremiah smiled warmly at both Lucretia, and Renais's affirmation, "Thank you both. Hopefully, I'm just worrying for nothing, but in my line of work, worries are contingencies that have to be prepared for." Jeremiah was equally happy that Lucretia understood the situation. He hadn't planned on leaving her with the Tigers to start--though it had come across his mind before--but new information, the presence of the Reaper, and information that he hadn't yet even gleaned from the Tigers and Evokers, things were going to be too dangerous to involve a civilian. Though, Jeremiah couldn't help but feel a sense of calm with Lucretia, it was odd, but the woman really was incredibly similar to Serena. Similar build, personality, even their talents were similar both being experienced healers. It was a little strange, but it made the longing for home grow. Catherine would have been on her way to meet up with Lucille by now... wouldn't she? Renais's face then took a serious turn, as she prepared to ask an important question, one that made Jeremiah raise an eyebrow, "...Rhapsodia? I know quite a bit about the Rhapsodia family, yes. They're a fairly prominent family in Lufiria, at least when it comes to the art of music." Jeremiah then tilted his head, as if something clicked, "...Might I ask you're asking about them?" ...Didn't they say that one of the Rhapsodia was taken? Never confirmed for dead? I didn't think about it before... But she has similarities with... Tio flinched a little from the sudden voice in her head after taking the medallion, "...Still a bit burned out, but a conversation over our lovely bitch of a goddess sounds wonderful actually." Mercuria's name was enough to spur Tio forward a little--perhaps it was overprotectiveness, but the goddess really had lit a fire inside of Tio--and she wanted to know as much as possible to deal with her. They got lucky with her overconfidence, confidence she would not have again, so they needed to be as ready as was possible to be for something with that kind of power. Tio wandered out of the main room with Kisara in hand, and just saw Alvira's tail heading up the staircase, dragging a groan out of Tio, "Stairs... lovely." She was too tired for those. Instead she focused on the medallion, "It seems as if you recovered incredibly quickly, as least compared to the two of us. Though... The assault at the compound certainly isn't helping our case. You're alright now, then?" Kieran heard the footsteps, and had tried a little bit to escape the zombie's grasp, except Marigold was extremely strong, or perhaps he was weak. He wasn't really one for manual labor, more of a healer, planning, that sort of thing, but also, Marigold was a lot softer than anything in the cell, so he was content to leave it like this. And then, of all people, the Belrose walked in flanked by Lord Owen, Graham, and... a monster that he'd never seen before. A woman, certainly, but with the body of a snake, an bluish skin. His shock lasted for all of a moment while Marigold talked about her not moving, and Kieran then turned to the situation with a chuckle, "Gonna be honest, I didn't think you'd come down here first. Or while anyone was awake, or whatever." Kieran turned and lowered his head to Owen, "Lord Owen, I can't say the same for you--I didn't expect to see you so soon. There's much to plan; have you figured out how you plan to strike?" Kieran rolled his head back to Syndra, "So I'm guessing that since you brought Owen with you that my death isn't on the table? So, what, gloating? A little torture? Appealing to my humanity or something, or other? What would the Belrose want with me, or, maybe you're here for Marigold? I wouldn't be able to guess what goes on up there, if anything goes on up there." Kieran's gaze met Syndra's with an unfaltering flame. It was easy to regret his actions, but in the presence of a Belrose, he had no reason to. If anything was going to happen, at least he'd get some licks in.

The movements worked perfectly, the tank was not able to return fire, and everyone was able to get inside their range, and either dismantle the targets, or get ready for the new wave. All except Scylla, who very nearly took the tank shell which would have certainly finished the job. Sia breathed a sigh of relief as the shell careened hopelessly wide, leaving them all present to handle the threat in front of them. The closest HEX of the new group was in range of the Dawn's cannon, but before Sia could issue the command, Louise's voice entered her ear, "What? Radicals?" Sia fell into thought; who would be masquerading as AHI? There was certainly good reason to attach one's self to the power and influence the name held, but to embark on a mission like this? Was it someone aligned with AHI, or someone actively trying to stir up trouble? Sia pushed the thoughts to the side for now; there were people who could answer those questions here, and they needed to be dealt with. "Understood, Louise, fall back, also send me the visual on the machines that you saw--I'll send you back some information on what to expect." Sia bit the inside of her cheek before turning to Alrenne, "Lieutenant Park just informed be that she engaged with an actual person when she hailed their machines. She seems to believe that they may be radicals posing at AHI. If that's the case... there may be considerably more to this than just gross misuse of force." Sia took a deep breath, and fanned herself a little before checking her pocket to make sure that her inhaler was there--she'd been in a hurry, and didn't remember if she brought it with her. "Everyone, the unit behind us may be a larger part of his scenario than recently thought; finish these autonomous units, and we link back up with Lieutenant Park. Keep us in up close on that tank, and prepare the main cannon! Target the forward most HEX!" The Dawn remains put, and fires the main cannon at Lancer A-6! Sia also casts Foresee on Louise!

"Aha, it appears you know me a little too well, Lucretia. Well, much of it was first coming to apologize for my distance--as I said. Then for what I'm sure feels like simply dropping you off with the Tigers before moving forward. Your company has made things a lot easier for me, and I can only thank you for that. Though, I do have a code that I follow, and considering that the underground is involved, and other things involving the princess, and the Escaflowne... Involving a civilian--even a perfectly capable, and talented one such as yourself--doesn't sit well with me. Were this situation not so fraught, I'd see you the whole way to Lufiria, but that doesn't seem to be in the cards. I wanted to explain that at least; not explaining why I may leave you with the Tigers in the end would be foolish of me, and you certainly deserve that explanation." Jeremiah smiled at Lucretia's wink, though, Versaris's heart was indeed taken. "Though, there is something I would like to ask of you, and I think it's excellent that Miss Silvavolke is here for it as well. It is a bit selfish... but, I would ask you to keep an eye on Aegean. She'll be a spearhead in the upcoming mission, and... as much as I wouldn't mind assisting in the downfall of a man such as Kazran, my assistance is already far more than Lufiria would like. Should anyone figure out my hand in this, I will have much to explain--though, my reasoning for acting I think outweighs any potential downside. If she's anything like her mother, or the girl I knew from several years ago, she'll need someone watching out for her. Could I ask that of you, Lucretia? I already seem to know your answer, Renais." Right before they headed after Nita and Alvira, Tio heard her name called, and turned to see Syta, holding out her medallion, and mentioning that Kisara wanted to speak with them. Syta had mentioned that Kisara had returned during their fight with the underground, but kept a hold on it until now. "With us, and without you? Interesting..." Tio reached out and took the medallion with a smile, "Then you can trust us to return her when we're finished... or rather, when we can, Elisa and I are still quite tired, and the need for movement hasn't helped. That said, she'll be okay with us." Then, a second figure approached, and one that she should have expected at some point, but didn't expect now. Commander Natalya hadn't really spoken with them since the attack; for fairly understandable reasons, either being in the field, or the two of them being in less-than-conversational state. They weren't much better now, but the situation was also quite different, now that they were in a warlord's court, getting ready to act on their behalf. "Is something the matter, commander?" Nita looked over her shoulder, and noticed that she'd lost the Evokers, though, she could hear Miss Tio's voice, so it sounded like they had been prompted. But Alvira's words brought her back into the conversation, "Fomalhaut... no, I've not heard the name before. Is he truly a star above us?" Nita pointed up towards the ceiling as she spoke. She then nodded as if coming to an understanding, "As I said before, there are tribes in Mura who worship spirits from days past. Our ancestors remain all around us, granting us strength, and watching over us from afar... our words reach them, and allow them to find us... it feels similar, yet, I cannot recall any of them being referred to as a bright star... It is... a beautiful way to believe." Nita smiled at Alvira, "Yes, there are several rooms, right upstairs that you could use for something like that." Nita gestured for Alvira to follow, as she led her to a staircase.

"Oh, so this isn't only your first time with the festival, but also one of your first times in a larger city?" The surprise was evident on Alouette's face; it felt like Ichika was considerably more traveled than it sounded, but it was possible that her pilgrimage as well as whatever she did back at her shrine just kept her away from the cities. "Aha, well, I think this is a good place for it to be your first then... the stores themselves are good, but with the festival starting you'll find plenty from other countries as well." Alouette then paused as Ichika mentioned her orchid, the blue orchid that she had just finished explaining, and realized that it was peeking out from her hood. "Oh, uh... well... Aha... I did mention that it was an uncommon color to see, but... Today is my birthday, actually. It coincides with the beginning of the festival." Alouette flushed slightly, "It's... not all that special, but I've always--" Lorelei's voice broke out over her own, bring a smile to Alouette's face, the faint red still on her face, "Good morning to you as well, Lorelei. We were just coming to find you." The red didn't leave Alouette's face, as a pout came to her face, and crossed her arms, "I, I was just leading Ichika through the city. Not readjusting as you say... It's quite different from what I remember." A bold faced lie; Alouette almost felt as if she could walk through the streets with her eyes closed. She sighed, "I'm glad that our efforts kept the mirth that the festival is known for... Still, the questions over who it was and why remain..." Ichika then stated her intent to have her request fulfilled, even if Lorelei needed Alouette, the forwardness brought a raised eyebrow from the red haired woman, "...Well, with words like that, I don't think it would be right to turn her down. Were you heading somewhere, princess? Or would you be fine joining us for the moment?"

Jeremiah looked over as Versaris walked over, asking what any sensible person who knew of his station would be asking him. "It would certainly be best to not be speaking of things in earshot of Owen's council, but, I am more than aware of what I'm doing, Versaris. The fact that I'm standing in the court of a Warlord at all is already risk enough. Though, you are mistaken. I will not be getting directly involved; if the man can't achieve his goals with the Tigers' assistance, then he's not fit for Islexia, but in the event that he does succeed... That would be the best for stability. A place were clouded and monsters can be safe--as much as being in Islexia can be said to be safe for them--is worth an incredible amount. When I took my position, my oath was not solely to Lufiria, but to the good of the world. Kazran is not someone who can be trusted, should he win here, a purge would happen almost overnight. While Lufiria would be content to let Islexian fight Islexian, I am not Lufiria--this conflict has only one good outcome, and if I can weigh the scales, it is my duty to assist in the capacity I can. The game plan is something I'll have to speak to you elsewhere about; there will be time to do so, but there are other things that I should also act on. So I should set about doing those for now, you can come along if you'd like." His eyes scanned the room looking for the the rosy hair of his companion--he hadn't much time to speak with her since encountering the tigers, and he needed to be clear of where she would head from here. He found her towards the back of the room now that things were starting to move; Aegean and Cassandra seemed to have come to an accord of their own, as had Iris and her wolf companion, those could wait for the moment. Though as he approached, it turned out there were two heads of pink in accordance--a little ironic that the pair had reminded him of his wife, and daughter respectively, "There you are, Lucy. Apologies for not being as candid as I had been prior to our encounter with the Tigers, bu it was my job to make sure that they made it here." He smiled at the buxom cleric, "Have you been doing alright since?" He then looked over at Renais, "Apologies for butting in on your conversation, Miss Silvavolke." "Oh!" Nita looked up as it appeared that Alvira, the dragon woman who had spoken up right at the start, was interested in being taken to one of the rooms. Nita came closer with a smile, "Of course, of course... It looks like you won't be the only one either," Nita pointed as both Elisa and Tio slowly wandered over. "Lady Evokers," Nita bowed her head quickly. She looked around, seeing if anyone else was interested, but it appeared that it was just this group for the moment, or would react as they started to move. "Alright, we'll be heading out for now, if there are others, they'll follow..." Nita gestured for the group to follow, though, something Alvira had said was piquing the woman's interest, "So... you need one of the guest rooms to pray, Miss Alvira? If it's not so bold, might I ask what you're praying to? Back in Mura, there were some tribes, and elders who prayed to spirits, and other beings, thanking them for the life they had been given... is that something the same as you are to do?"

Louise was making contact with their newly approaching foes, fortunately, they were making quick work of the northern group so all they would-- "What?" Kiria called out yet another unit of approaching enemies. What did they take? This is absurd for the number of units that were present! There has to be something we're missing... This is more like responding to a full on armed insurrection! Scylla broke formation and engaged, only bringing a sigh from Sia. As frustrating as it was starting to get with people acting on their own, Scylla's movements were at least in the direction they were likely going to have to push in. Sia could at least hope that Louise knew when to fall back. "Everyone, down those tanks immediately, and then form up for the new approaching unit!" Sia quickly scanned information that she was gathering on the tanks, before smiling, "Helmsman, take us in close on the tanks. We can exploit a weakness in their stated weaponry. Defensive guns at the ready!" Sia could feel herself starting to tire--this engagement was stretching on, and she was going to have to focus more to keep everything together. They weren't going to be done here for a while longer. The Dawn moves to 22, 23 and attacks Tank A-3!

Fortunately, no objection from the council came, for the moment, it seemed as if they were all--at least tentatively--in agreement with what they aimed to do. Though, the dark-skinned merchant kept his eyes on Jeremiah; he was far too informed for him to just a merchant or even a strategist. The ocean cave under Beacon Castle wasn't the most well known feature of the famous castle as it was only visible from the sea itself--even Islexians who lived under its tower didn't quite know of the existence of the cavern. Moreover there was the rather intimate knowledge the man had of politics here; at best he was scarily well informed, at worst, the man could be related to Kazran and leading them into a trap. A watchful eye was going to be necessary for him... if not the entire group of the Tigers. Yet, he couldn't deny that the group certainly looked as effective as they were touted, especially if the Evokers of Glacies were also singing their praises. Though, their presence here was troubling, and not just because of what the Belrose might do if they caught wind of what was happening. The Evokers were the most powerful mages in the alliance, and every country without exception regarded them with some level of respect. He'd heard enough times that the presence of the Evokers was more than enough reason for Islexia to maintain their hostile, but not aggressive stance to Glacies, despite their greater military presence. They were known for traveling, and dealing with magically based incidents, and surveying ruins for magical artifacts amongst other things, but the fact that they were traveling with escort meant that something pressing required their involvement. Given how powerful the pair were said to be, that alone was cause for concern. I wonder... does it have anything to do with that commotion to the south east of here? The man sighed, no answer was going to come to him, and they certainly weren't going to inform him of their reasons for being present. "My Lord Owen, before you head off, perhaps it would be best to assign someone to guide our guests to their rooms? They do appear rather spent." Jeremiah walked back over to the group after he finished his work, perhaps a risky endeavor, but taking this chance was one he felt was worth it. His disdain for Islexia remained, and he expected it would for the rest of his life--but he needed to make sure that he didn't fall into the same line of thinking as Queen Hilda, or the same line of thinking that had him almost condemn all of the creations. He grimaced, that conversation had gone poorly, and looking back on it, while he felt his stance was reasonable, how he went about expressing that stance was indefensible. Like it or not, Alriana and Iris were not responsible for anything that happened all those years ago, or at least, not that he could prove. He didn't feel regret over those he had to kill that day, only for the fact that it got that far, and that should have been enough to apologize to Iris for the death of the man she considered her father. A mistake was something that you had to accept, but it was always something that could be addressed, and so it would. "Well, that's that for now... I'll go and speak with Owen, and his cadre later... and deal with what comes of that as it does." Jeremiah looked over at Alriana, dead silent she'd been since arriving. She definitely understood the nature of these conversations. A faint smile came across his face before resting back into the shadows for the moment. The talk with the Evokers still had yet to come, but he imagined that it would be a time before that happened. Nita sighed as things seemed to end amiably, the tense nature of such conversations made her antsy--perhaps that's why she'd been pacing almost the whole time--but that finally seemed to come to an end. Kandalar was his usual self though, concise and to the point, her uncle usually had Owen's best interests in mind so it was interesting that he seemed drawn to Leon. He wasn't with the group before hand, only showing up when they returned from the Underground compound. For now, Nita stepped up as Kalandar called for someone to escort those who needed rest to their rooms, "I can do that." Nita did want to go and see Kieran alongside the Belrose--she had been the trigger for his shift. While things had calmed down now, it was more than likely that Kieran wouldn't take well to Syndra, but if Owen was with her, her presence would be superfluous. Tio sighed, finally it seemed like things were over, even if it had been a fairly short meeting. Getting to their room, and being able to formally relax, maybe even get a wash sounded amazing. Elisa had been getting better, but they were both at about the same level now thanks to burning the candle at both ends back during the attack. Anything on her agenda could wait for some rest.

A clean shot, though, unfortunately, the machine was both quicker and more durable than was calculated, and the machine still stood--albeit barely. Sia clicked her tongue mentally adjusting the calculation in her head, and then the machine blew up as Daeran was quick on the draw. "Six enemies left on this front, one to the west, and the group behind us..." Louise's voice entered her communicator ask for permission to double back into the approaching group. Sia pondered a moment, before noticing the pause that entered the XO's candor. It didn't seem like it was fear, or anything of a sort, just... Focus on the mission for the moment, the XO is capable, that's why he's here. "I'm not fond of the plan, Lieutenant, but I can't deny that it's sound. Any change in their movements or behavior, you inform before you act--I expect that we'll be finished with what's in front of us before the second group breaks your perimeter." Sia turned her eyes back to the console, "Let's finish up here everyone, we still have the group behind us to prepare for!" Kiria's question did linger in the air, even amidst the fighting, the rebels didn't quite explain why they were here only that they were rebelling against AHI's heavy handed tactics. More questions, and before they'd even met with Ambassador Shiva, and the head of AHI. Leon and Bonner seemed to have the nearest Lancer handled, as did Markus and Daeran with the other in range. "Bring us in closer, but remain wary of those Tank cannons!" The Dawn moves to 19, 20

Continuing his array of firsts, finally Marigold found her smile, except this one was genuine, and while she'd never get him to say it, it was a beautiful smile. While Kieran was dealing with that thought, Marigold opened his cell, and wandered inside to hug him. He didn't have an answer for her question, not an answer he hadn't said before. It was... just the way he thought it had to be. Kieran found himself stunned for what felt like an eternity, before he returned the hug, almost remembering what he was supposed to do with a hug. How long had it really been since he truly hugged someone? The hugs in the midst of sex hardly counted, and he knew that there was little connection there... It had to have been years. Then the million gold question, came as Marigold stared up at him, 'What are you going to do once we let you out of this cell?' Kieran paused for a long moment, before sighing, "Dealing with Kazran comes first, but after that... Maybe I go and try to find some answers to my new questions. One thing is for sure, though, won't be turning my back on Cass or Owen again. I'll do what's asked of me, and then figure out where I stand, and how to find the answers to questions I'm interested in... Maybe Glacies." Maybe talking with the Evokers would help, but I can't imagine that either of them are going to want to talk with me... Not after what I did.

Finally. Finally after whatever amount of time that they'd been around each other, Kieran got something out of Marigold that was an emotion other than wishing for the end, and uncaring apathy... and well, her sadness over his decisions. It was like a hole cut into her, and everything came spilling out. Emotions that made her seem so much more human than the monster that she was painting herself as. Emotions felt so painfully similar to the ones that came pouring out of him when the Belrose stepped foot into the manse, daring to stand there as if she were on their side. Kieran just sat there, drinking it all in, he had to. He had to understand, that was his punishment for everything he'd done--to know for certain that everything he'd known was wrong. He knew it, had known it, but couldn't accept it because if he did, his life up until that realization was a life of lies, a life that meant nothing. Once Marigold's words finally trailed off, an apology, and then more derision, Kieran simply chuckled, "And I'm saying that you were right to do that. I spat on that trust, and for what? What did I really gain from all of that, huh? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. But what did I gain by doing what I knew to be right?" Kieran finally looked Marigold in the eyes again, "I got... hope again. Yeah, I knew what what their endgame was. I know what the want for the country, and no, as much as I try to say it, I didn't hate you. I didn't hate any of you. I told myself I had to believe that. That's what I had to believe if I was going to make it through that night. Luthier staring me down, and I knowing, that if I so much as twitched, that man could have killed me, and the bartender, and then mom. I hate him. That is a person I hate, and he's human, like I am. If I can be honest... I didn't want to tell him anything. I didn't want to help him. I didn't want to betray Cass and Owen. But the only thing I thought I had left was at stake. It was that, or sacrifice everything I worked to protect. So, I had to tell myself that I hated you all, I had to be an Islexian, a real Islexian to do what I did, and when it was all said and done... death was the only thing I really wanted. If the commander had pulled the trigger, I'd have smiled at the end of it." Kieran looked down at the stone floor, "I said that I didn't know what it was like, but you've also never told me. Everything you say is behind so many levels of irony, that what feels like a cry for help is just another sentence from you. That's why it... kind of hurts to see you so open for once. I know I owe every single person out there an apology, and frankly, I've been searching for the words to even begin that. But I feel like I owe you more than that. Cass is whatever; she'll hate me until the end of my days, and I deserve that. Owen... I expect that he'll just use me until the time comes to cut me loose--I don't deserve better than that, but at least he'll keep himself measure. The Tigers will probably just run me through. You, though? I betrayed that trust, and on top of that, here I am making you cry, for real this time. Somehow, you still find a reason to care about someone who tried to put your kind to the sword. No matter my reasons, that's grounds enough for you to walk through these bars and kill me, but you haven't, and I expect you won't. Maybe you're not human anymore... but you sure still do feel like one, and I think that's enough to continue to have some hope. You managed to change one person already, why not yourself? So... Sorry, Marigold. For betraying your trust; I think it's the only trust I really had, and I burned it. It means..." Kieran sighed, and then shook his head, wiping his own eyes, "Sorry. I haven't found the words to say that yet."

Kieran's whistling came to an end, barely any surprise on his face as he finally heard Marigold's voice, "...I was almost ready to ask what took you so long? How does it make me feel? I don't know, really. Probably about the same as I've felt since the day that all this shit came down on top of me. Don't really know what's left to feel bad about. Marinaded in it for so long as you kind of just get numb to it when you fuck up, and people just come along and prove you wrong." Kieran's face twitched as she sniffled, "Come on. Stop that. I don't get you. One moment you're begging someone to come put an axe between your eyes so it'll all be over, and the next you're over here sniffling over me wanting the same thing. Feels like you should be cheering me on. I'm just another Islexian. Dime a dozen out here, probably more people who don't really care too much about monsters and clouded, and just want to eke out an existence in this wretched place. You could get your kicks with someone else." He waved her hand at her, "Yet, here you are. Why are you sad that I did what I did? Because you thought better of me, or what? I think all the damn time about people like you. Monsters, Clouded, Lufirians, just about the same shit at this point, that's what you're taught here, anyway. They're not human, you're not human, and you sit in that, hear it day in and day out. You can't not think about people like you. That's our whole damn existence. So imagine how it feels to know that's a figment of someone's twisted imagination. You're people, aren't you? Human, clouded, monster, what difference is that supposed to make, but yet that's the whole damn world that I've been given!" Kieran took a deep breath, and then leaned back up against the wall, "No. I didn't learn anything. I knew the truth. We all do. Every single goddamn Islexian. I didn't learn anything I didn't already know... except for something about you. You ain't really here to die. Why the hell would you care about what I did, or what Owen and Cass are trying to do if you're not going to be there to see it? What's the point of that, huh? Well, I ain't gonna pretend that I know what it's like to not be able to die, but I do know what it's like to have everything taken from me. When you've lost all hope, don't know where to go, what to do, how to take a step forward to what you really want, you choose the option that makes you feel like you have control over your life. Because you sure as hell don't have control over your death anymore. I don't know what you are, and frankly, I don't know why you care so much about a dumbass like me, and I ain't going to tell you that life's worth living. But if you want me to be more honest, tell the truth about what I feel, then I'm going to make you do the same thing. Misery loves company, huh? Tell me I'm wrong, call me a liar, hell, kill me yourself if I'm talking out of my ass. I ain't going nowhere fast."

Tio listened intently to Jeremiah talk, even if she wanted to do anything but listen to things further, but when the man decided to insert himself, she found it odd. Lufiria should have absolutely no reason to even bother assisting Islexia towards anything involving stability, given that, without a second thought, Islexia would march on Lufiria if they so much as breathed wrong. Though, perhaps there was an underlying goal here? Jeremiah was head of intelligence--the information that he had access to, and the ease at which he began playing his part were proof of that--but he was also a single man, with a lot of sway and power. It was wrong to think that his goals completely aligned with that of Lufiria's, which then brought the possibility of seeing a place for monsters and clouded in Islexia brought to fruition. Perhaps there's more of a bleeding heart in there than he leads us to believe... perhaps speaking with Aegean about him will clear things up. Jeremiah smiled as the young lord took his words in stride, not casting undue suspicion on him--at least not yet. The man was sharp, quickly picking up on Jeremiah's line of thinking, and confidence seemed to build within him. Of all the Warlords he'd seen, Owen was proving to be the most impressive; morally was a contest that he couldn't lose, between the Belrose, Westermark, Serdio, and other, smaller warlords, Owen was the only one who Jeremiah couldn't see being asked to deal with in the future. Yet, he wasn't foolish either--Nicolas was an excellent leader, son of the greatest general Islexia had ever seen, Kazran was captain known for his brutality and valor in combat, not his leadership, and the Westermark were merchants at best, and left much of their affairs to Nicolas--Owen seemed most alike with Nicolas, only lacking the older man's experience. In time, Owen could become a true force within Islexia, and if his morality remained true, perhaps there was the faintest glimmer of hope for Islexia. "I would not say that I've worked with many Warlords, only a handful, and often at a distance. Much of my knowledge is through those I know and what I glean myself--a strategist must know how best to handle situations across countries. I admit, I had planned to remain in the background and allow the Tigers to do as they will, but I have to say that I find your conviction admirable. With those Warlords I have interacted with, I have gotten the feeling that most are out for their own power, not the people beneath them. I don't get the same feeling from you, Lord Owen, in fact, you feel more aligned with your people than I would expect from one of your station." Jeremiah lowered his head somewhat, "I have contacts that I'm sure that I can leverage to assist in gathering of information for your assault, though, that's not information that I would like to hand out freely," Jeremiah looked around at the table, "Every merchant much maintain some secrets, yes? If we can speak later, I will figure out how I can further assist. Otherwise, I think your plan is rather sound, however... if I remember some of the specifics of Beacon... there may yet be a better plan. I would need some time to ascertain... but I do believe that Beacon castle is built atop a sea cave, perhaps that might be of some use with planning your attack?" Jeremiah then bowed fully to Owen, "I have said my piece on the matter, and I would hope that you take it into account, Lord Owen." The dark skinned man's eyes narrowed, "You... know far too much for a simple merchant. Yet... Not once has Kazran attempted to attack us from the sea..." The man brought a hand to mouth as he thought, eyes darting back and forth almost as if he were flipping through pages in his head. "If the existence of that sea cave is true... That may prove safer and more effective than marching back against Kazran." Jeremiah stood, and looked at the man, "Remember, I am also a strategist. I will divulge what I can should Lord Owen deem it necessary, but for the moment, I must go and assist planning the Tigers' rest--their arrival in Islexia has been... difficult."

Owen's outburst over the words of his council brought a raised eyebrow to Tio's face. She had expected some pushback, but his words were more similar to words she might have expected coming out of Cassandra's mouth. It seemed like the siblings were more alike than glance might have made apparent. Though, Tio was spent from having to insert herself into the conversation, and with Tasha taking the reins it was best that they actually did make themselves as scarce as was possible. They might have been allies, but this was Islexia, and people were sure to take issue with the two of them being present. With them both still dealing with the fatigue from Mercuria, and Luthier's escapades, they were easier targets than she would have liked. Elisa dragged them both towards the back, offering the flip side of the situation, "Yes, and that's what we're going to do... Depending on how long we're here, we might just be able to get back on our feet properly." Tio then scowled as Elisa mentioned Luthier's name--the name of the man who led the attack three days ago, "If you see him, you'll have to hope that I haven't. Ugh... I knew that the Underground was a problem, but to this degree... I still have to send off that letter to Iseria--they'll have to be mentioned at the festival. For now, let's oversee things here, and hopefully that will be that." She watched Iris, still thinking about what she'd spoken to her about, and faintly smiling at her clinging to Ullr's arm. Then her gaze drifted to the quietest elephant in the room, the raven haired man towards the back of the room speaking with Tanya. The council fell deadly silent at Owen's outburst, several of their eyes fell to the table below as he laid the truth right at their feet. If they chose not to act, and with the hand they were given, the incursions onto their land would continue until, likely, all of them were put to the sword. The only way left to them was forward, the dark skinned man who had spoken up was the first to find Owen's eyes after he thoroughly silenced them, "Our choices remain limited... My point was not to say that we cannot act, but that we must be careful with how we do. Kazran is an enemy that can be toppled, that much is true, but the Belrose family is effectively in control of all of Islexia; if they were to deem us an enemy, it would not matter if Kazran's head does end up on a spike. It will be fleeting as every warlord, and ruffian from across Islexia will be on our doorstep to put us to the sword. You would need the aid of a military, not just the mercenaries. Aid we cannot find; neither Hecatia nor Glacies would assist us, lest Nicolas declare war. Though, with as much said... Kazran is the enemy that remains in front of us, and if you believe that these mercenaries are the people we need to help us turn the tide, then so be it--your father would have done something similar, I believe, which means that I'll believe in your judgment. As for a plan... The other council members began to whisper and talk amongst themselves, as the dark skinned man returned to his seat, tenting his hands in front of his face, considering the words he'd spoken. Jeremiah turned his focus back towards the commotion in the room. Sure enough, everyone sitting at that table was simply afraid for their own hide; it likely wasn't too much of a stretch to believe that if Kazran or the Belrose were offering a better deal that they would plunge a dagger into the Gaffneys' backs and not look back. Jeremiah simply shook his head at the company that Owen found himself it, but then, as if dared by Jeremiah's near dismissal, Owen re-centered himself in the conversation, silencing his council and reminding them what they were fighting for. As well as his admission that he didn't care about the Belrose's ire, nor for the usual Islexian ire--they would not take well to hearing that someone who worked alongside the 'damned' bested a warlord, even if it was Kazran. It was Jeremiah's turn to raise an eyebrow, "Oh? Has someone in Islexia grown a spine? Interesting... Committed to his goal, no matter what..." A faint smile came across Jeremiah's face. "Well, well... perhaps this was more fruitful than I could have expected..." Jeremiah stepped out from the shadows, "If I might interject?" The dark skinned man's golden eyes narrowed, "And you are?" Jeremiah bowed, "I am a strategist, turned merchant, we have similar professions, you and I, so I was hoping to say a few words that might, sway the conversation. Ah, yes, forgive me--I get swept up in the moment, you see--My name is Leon Basque, it's not a name you've heard often if at all, I am but a traveling merchant nowadays. Yet, from the situation before me... there is something that doesn't quite line up with your fears. It is quite common knowledge that the Belrose control most of Islexia via the union between Nicolas, and Bianca Westermark, effectively giving them control of the most fertile areas of Islexia as well as the largest force. So in light of that... if the Belroses were going to intervene, why haven't they?" Jeremiah put up his finger, and began pacing, before stopping, "I would think the answer is the same as why they wouldn't have acted against you before all of this. I don't believe the Belrose care much about what's occurring up here, at all. I think either outcome is fine with them, either Kazran eats you both alive, and takes control of the corridor, or Kazran dies, and you do. With control of the most used trade route between Hecatia and Islexia, would it not be easy to assume Kazran's place in the hierarchy? I don't think the Belrose are as prepared to use force on this issue as you believe they are. In light of this, I would also suggest acting cautiously, but quickly. The Tigers are still exhausted from their previous engagements, and you'll need time to gather the information you'll need for your strike. Kazran's forces struck nearby not too long ago, I don't believe he'll strike again soon. Perhaps you might agree with me, Lord Owen?" Jeremiah offered the man a smile. Perhaps a way to begin bridging the divide is right in front of me... Leaving this to the Tigers alone likely isn't in Lufiria's best interest. No, not even just Lufiria, the clouded and monsters present in Islexia as a whole. I suppose... that perhaps offering my assistance may be the play. Ha... helping an Islexian after twenty-six years ago sounds like a bad joke...

Alouette looked over at Ichika noticing that the woman had followed her lead, almost literally, by also putting her hood up. "Oh, uh... you don't need that up, Ichika. I'm wearing it because... there are some people who might be around that I would like to avoid if at all possible. I, uh... stand out, so trying to downplay that a little for right now." It would be better to explain why the hood was up than to just say that she didn't need it. "Anyway, we can go this way. There are a bunch of shops down this way... armor, weaponry, clothing... a lot of other things on the way too, as well as florists." Alouette started her way down the street as she spoke, "You'll see a lot of florists around because flowers have a lot of special meanings here in Isolde. The Festival itself was created in the aftermath of Requiem, and was intended as celebration. Isolde was one of the countries least affected by Requiem, and it is one of the most peaceful countries on Arkus. So with that responsibility, Isolde does its best to represent itself and its culture within the festival." Alouette pointed at a couple wandering by, both wearing a red orchid either on their person or in their hair. "Orchids are Isolde's national flower, and you'll see them everywhere. The different colors all have various associations and meanings; the pair that just walked by are recently married. The red orchid is usually something announcing that they are single, and actively looking for a good time so to speak. But when they're worn together, and opposite like they were, it means that they were recently married. Ah, there's a blue one... blue is a particularly rare orchid to see during the festival. It typically means that today is a special day, or that something special happened. It could symbolize a marriage proposal, a needed promotion, or a birthday. Really just something that's genuinely important to the wearer. There are others that mean different things in relation to the festival as a whole..." Alouette's own blue orchid began peeking out of her hood, as she looked around at some of the stores on their way down the street. Most of it was things she'd seen before, but it had been so long. The familiar colors, and clothing, the sights and sounds, Alouette could feel the nostalgia starting to seep in. "Do you see anything you like? We can stop in any of the stores, if you'd like?"

They had control of the central plain, and now Kazue was falling back in. Sia let out a sigh, she could at least understand what Kazue's rush was this time--as the rebels escaped into the valley, it was then that Kazue started to follow orders--and Sia couldn't say if she wouldn't have done something similar when the powerless were in danger. Still, a distinction had to be made, and the damage that Kazue's machine was more than enough reason to warn her to not rush off like that without back up. Sia felt like she didn't particularly need to issue orders, as Louise began directing people. Her own commands were almost identical to what Sia would have said, so she let Louise issue the commands, and focused on the machine that fled. They were autonomous, but there was enough sophistication to know when it was outmatched, and went back for reinforcements. The northwestern group was numerous and at this point, minimizing the damage to her own unit was more important to her than AHI's autonomous machines. "Gunnery officer. Prepare the main cannon. Target the retreating HEX." Sia turned on her communicator to the rest of the unit, "All units form up, and prepare for contact with the approaching group. The Dawn is targeting the nearby HEX. Lt. Vhane, Commander Bonner, keep a close eye on Ensign Fujiwaru--once they are in range, deal with them all as quickly as possible. We still have the group approaching from the south, and they may attempt to give chase to the rebels. We need them in one piece, unfortunately autonomous machines aren't going to help us with clearing things up." Sia quickly changed her display, quickly taking note of any issues that may affect the cannon blast, and finding none of them. "Gunnery officer, I'm giving you the coordinates, helmsman if you would do the honors..." Remember what a Battleship's main cannon means, XO. The main cannon firing is a declaration of intent. You can't take it back when that trigger has been pulled. So you have to be absolutely sure when that trigger is pulled that you know why you're giving that order. It's more important for you as well. I was never the best shot around, so I had to leave it to everyone else. You know how all of that works, and I'm confident in saying that you won't miss often. So make sure that when you fire, that you're confident in your decision, and that you're prepared for the statement it makes. A deep breath, "Imminent Dawn main cannon... , Fire!" The Dawn fires the main cannon at Lancer-4!

"Were it only that simple, you'd be correct." Jeremiah turned to look over at the approaching Maldoche, of all of the people that he thought to speak with, she was lower on the list. A Maldoche out in the world wasn't too far fetched, and he vaguely remembered that Anton had mentioned that one of his children chose to wander the world. Still, information was information, but at the moment that wasn't the main focus. "For starters, we're not at war, so I'm not General Noire, it would just be Jeremiah, or Sir Noire, whichever you prefer. Second, is it not obvious?" Jeremiah tilted his head towards Owen, "The man in the lead knew what he was getting into for the most part--he's ready to accept the Tiger's aid, but his council are not aligned with him. The aid of clouded folk is already damaging enough--they won't be gaining much outside support because of this--but you add in the fact that the Evokers are alongside them and more problems arise. Glacies did not assist the alliance in the collapse, and Islexia has always been hostile towards them because of that. The problem is who controls Islexia--Nicolas Belrose--he is the son of the legendary Islexian General Elliot Belrose, the man who led the Islexians in their invasion of Lufiria... and was subsequently killed because of it. Not only does he have the usual hatred for Lufiria, he was there during the Collapse, fought in it, and watched his father die and the ambitions of Islexia with him. He would take any opportunity to strike at those he believes to be responsible--be it through their actions, or lack thereof." Jeremiah pushed himself off the wall, "If he found any reason to attack the Gaffney or any other warlord, that's it, there's no chance to win, and they know that. This unit is almost the perfect storm if the Belrose wanted to get involved. Of course, that's in the back of their minds--pride is a difficult emotion to rein in. It's not so simple to override it for your own safety."

The men and women around the table, turned and whispered things to one another. It was clear from the differences in attire between those standing off to the side, and those at the table, that these were fairly well-to-do people. Minor nobles, and merchants that had sided with the Gaffney. There had been some hesitance around the table as the group arrived, so clouded as they were, but those concerns became louder as--of all people to be mentioned--the Evokers of Glacies were announced to be amongst the group. "This wasn't a part of the report, Lord Owen..." A dark skinned man stood from the table, "The Evokers are problem enough, but," The man pointed at Syndra, "A Belrose is in our midst, and not only a Belrose, the missing Belrose, the one that has a bounty out on--" "If I may before that continues," Tio spoke up, as she removed the hood of her cloak. She hoped that they would get through introductions, and further on before she had to explain their presence, but things were moving ahead faster than she was ready for. Fortunately, she was never ready for any sort of politics back in Glacies, so this wasn't going to be any different. "I admit that this is not how I would like to be present in Islexia, but the issue of the day makes it so. As Elisa announces herself, I am Tio Candialia, Evoker of Glacies. I will make things clear that we will not be participating in any Islexian engagement, there is... a situation that we have been asked to tend to, and that is our primary objective. To that end... our escorts, the Tigers, have accepted the call of aid from Lord Owen." Tio offered a hand, and a curtsy to the young regent, "Even if Glacies were keen on getting involved, Elisa and I are... exhausted to say the least from our travels, as well as other things that I am not at liberty to express. I simply give you my word that unless our talents are required in self defense, Elisa and I will not be participating, and so, I do not believe that our presence here--so long as it is kept under wraps--will cause any more trouble than is already currently present." Tio looked over at Syndra, still a tinge of frustration on the Evoker's face, before sighing, "I will also vouch for the skill of the Tigers, and the trustworthiness of Miss Belrose here. She is devoted to the same mission as any of the Tigers, and perhaps more so because of her station. The commander will further confirm as such." Tio exhaled, and leaned lightly against Elisa. Jeremiah stood off behind the group, off out of sight for the moment--They could deal with things for now, and he simply just needed to watch. There was much to worry about with this situation. He'd have to go around the town to gather information about what was happening here, and through out Islexia as a whole. The atmosphere was harsher than even Islexia was known for. No doubt that it's related... Damn it, where is his cross section heading? Jeremiah remained back until there was something that he needed to say, though, watching the men and women at the table squirm over the number of monsters and clouded suddenly present in the chamber, brought a faint smile to the man's face. The very people that many Islexians despised and hated were the people who were coming to their aid--even tangentially. He then chuckled that it also meant that Lufiria would also have a quiet hand in assisting them, which with his own presence here. How the times change... I wonder if any of these people were about for the Collapse? The man clicked his tongue, and returned to his seat looking at Lord Owen, "Even if we have their word... should word so much as cross Nicolas's ears, he'll marshal his forces, and crush us without a second thought. Yet..." He looked out over the group, "If they've managed to shake of the dark hands of the underground, then this force is a lifeline that we may not see again..." The others around the table joined in the man's quiet musings. It was clear that while this force was aligned with their mission, it was a tangential one--their own mission was paramount. Nita simply remained by Cassandra, quietly gulping as the tension seemed to elevate within the room. Elsewhere, underground in the dark dungeons beneath the castle, loud off key whistling echoed through the halls. Kieran looked down at his chained hands, and whistled to himself, and the rats below. He was unsure if he should have the freedom to whistle like this, or even to breath under his own power. From the sounds of things, it seemed like the Tigers had arrived. They made it back. Whether it was all in one piece was unknown, but the fact that they made it back at all... "...Huh. Maybe they are the real deal." Kieran continued to whistle an off key tune. If he did it long enough, he'd figure out the right key, and maybe figure out how to shake the other shackles that rooted him to the spot he found himself in now.

It was suddenly very humanizing to see Ichika suddenly so flustered. It was a flustering topic to be sure, but from their first interaction, and her composure on the battlefield, Ichika seemed more stoic than she actually was. Though, perhaps that should have been obvious from the woman's frustration with Luce's antics. Alouette supposed that was another similarity that the pair had--Alouette was sure that she came off more unapproachable than she intended. Alouette sighed, and waved a hand, "It's... really fine, Ichika. I'm used to stuff like this, and at the very least, you have an understandable reason for bringing it up. It remains embarrassing, but... I suppose we can be a little embarrassed about it together, then." Alouette offered a smile, she have liked to be more proud of her figure--contrary to belief by some, Alouette did work to maintain herself--but the frustration from being known more for that over her magical control, or her knowledge of the flowers of Isolde really got to her. The fact that she'd gotten this far with her circuity issue was nothing short of impressive, and the number of people who understood that was vanishingly few. So she had to do everything she could to prove them all wrong, all of this was Alouette. "Alright... I believe it was said that Lorelei would be staying at the Castle..." Alouette started making her way downstairs after closing her door, "So, let's head through Gardenia Park. That will take us down pass a couple stores, and likely a lot of the stalls are up and running now too, so I'm sure we may find something interesting on our way--Oh, hmm, do you know much about the festival, Ichika? The meaning of some of the flowers around? Isolde ascribes a lot of meaning to flowers, the way they bloom, the colors... many have special meanings, and you'll be seeing many of them. Come on." Alouette led the priestess outside, and onto the streets, where the bustle was starting to grow. Alouette wondered if it was a good idea for her to pull her hood up, but, her attire, and even the way she styled her hair were different from years ago, and she had matured in other ways that might make it a little difficult to recognize her immediately. She pulled the hood up enough to hide her from behind, but not enough to cover the blue flower, or her face.

Sia turned to Kiria as new arrivals appeared on her shared screen, two large groups of enemy units arrived both in front and behind them. Sia clicked her tongue; a pincer attack, while also having to protect the rebels was not an ideal situation. This amount of force was excessive before, but this was approaching wasteful levels. Or perhaps... there's more to this. Even if these are autonomous, there has to be some level of threat assessment for situations like this... Either the rebels were after something deemed important enough to protect with this amount of force, or it really is just a case of brutal retaliation. Her musing was cut short by the rattling of bullets against the Dawn's hull, and the new seat performed perfectly, allowing her to brace, and not be thrown about in surprise like before. She took a deep breath, "Thank you, Tristan..." She shook her head, "Gunnery officer, return fire!" The fact of the matter was that they needed to act, and quickly--a pincer had to be broken before it encircled them. "You're not getting anything from the southeastern group? Nothing, not even the automated message from the original unit?" That was concerning, it could be any number of things. Then a bubbly voice came across the intercom, announcing herself as Ensign Nishimiya--the name sounded familiar, it may have been on the mission dossier--and quickly launched into action as their other ensign, Kazue launched off into further combat away from the others, and with a badly damaged machine, "Ensign Fujiwaru, don't break formation further! Sorry to throw you into the mix so haphazardly, Ensign Nishimiya, but please support Ensign Fujiwaru." Sia couldn't let this one go, the Ensign was placing herself, and the unit in dangerous territory. Yet, just like before, her combat sense was leading her to victory. There was originally a question of which side to handle first, but Kazue's headlong rush decided that for her, "Lieutenant Calvin, be ready at a moment's notice for evasive action. I don't like that we're not receiving anything from the Southeastern group, we're going to press forward, and handle the group we can confirm as autonomous, and double back to handle the southeastern group. Ensign Kiria, if anything changes on what you're receiving from the southeastern group notify me at a moment's notice, and keep an eye on their movements. For now, Helmsmen, get us out of the range of that nearby HEX and place us reasonably in range for the main gun for the approaching assailants. Everyone else, continue disabling the units in this clearing!" Sia then turned her focus to the growing elephant in the room, "If you're still listening, Callistan rebels, what exactly where you planning to do here that would cause AHI to mount this kind of force to put an end to it?" The Dawn moves to 20, 18, and uses Alert!

Alouette folded her arms as she listened. Ichika was attentive, and intuited that Alouette had some reasonable understanding of the city from the number of people who had recognized her as well as how easily she seemed to move from place to place. Alouette sighed, looking around, "Yes, I am rather well acquainted with the city... saying I'm from Phantasma isn't entirely correct. I... lived here for a time, so I know the lay of the city quite well." Ichika didn't need to know more necessarily. Ichika continued talking, and a bit a through line was established between the two. Alouette had taken notice of it, but it really hadn't come up at all. She and Ichika were of a similar build, both short, and noticeably buxom women, and such a combination had a draw for lascivious eyes, and those who sought to intimidate. Neither she nor Ichika were particularly susceptible to it--her with her magic, and Ichika with her blade--but having someone in a similar situation who knew what to look out for always made thing more comfortable. Alouette let her head bob a moment, "Haha... I admit this is not how I expected to have my figure mentioned first thing in the morning, but... it's certainly more preferable." Ichika's fluster over the rather blunt question softened Alouette's image of the priestess a bit more; her frustration with Luce, and her stance with the mission had painted her as a bit more no-nonsense, but there appeared to be more to it than that. A bit of a similarity. Speaking of Luce, Alouette heard their voice over with what had to have been Nathan; she still had to talk to him to see how exactly he knew her. She was a Celti so if he was from around here, then it was entirely possible to know who she was, but she was rather sure that she had never met him personally. Alouette's hands slipped back to her still undone harness, "I... would quite appreciate the eyes looking out for me, so doing the same for you is the bare minimum. I will be doing the same for Princess Lorelei, so she'll be along with us." Speaking of the princess, Alouette was sure that she had something in store--Lorelei was good at surprises as much as Alouette was poor with them. Alouette fixed the blue orchid once more, and fiddled with her harness, noticing that it was starting to fray in places. It had been a couple years at this point, "Mmm... not again." Another moment or two passed, and Alouette finished putting her things in the bag around her waist, "Alright, I believe that's everything..."

"Cut off those machines!" Sia called as their correspondence with the fleeing rebels was cut short by a round of bullets. Bonner's call was spot on; they needed to know what was going on here, as quickly as they were able. From the sensors in front of her, she could tell that if they cut off those onrushing machines, they escapees should be safe. That line approaching was a little menacing, "Comms, maintain an open channel with the rebels. XO, continue with your line of questioning, if I have further questions, I'll chime in. Helm, move us in closer, that line of approaching enemies may be an issue, and we may have to assist." She was finding the swing of things now, trepidation still present, but she knew how things worked. If things keep going the way they are... seems like there may be more veracity to the heavy-handed methods. "You should be in the clear past that ridge. We'll continue to cover you until you're out of the area, but if you could continue what you were saying, sir." The Dawn moves to 17, 14!

Jeremiah turned to look over at Versaris, the man had left his jacket in one of the wagons, opting to downplay as much as possible since he was quite literally walking into the den of someone who could easily be called Lufiria's enemy. However, the clouded walking about assuaged that concern slightly--they'd heard of the Gaffneys but their size and location made it impossible for Lufiria pursue anything beyond monitoring their wellbeing. Perhaps now was the time to offer some minor assistance. "This place has been attacked recently. A couple days ago from the look of things. That's both good, and bad for us--good because it means that everyone is too focused on themselves and what they needed to do, bad because it means that your target is confident enough to push his forces this far. For that reason, I don't think anyone will be tailing us." Jeremiah gave a glance to Alriana who wasn't following too far behind, before turning his eyes back forward. Eventually, they found themselves at the castle, and they were met by a tanned swordswoman, and a shark clouded. Mildly unusual, but considering where the previous capital of Islexia used to be, it wasn't impossible that some of their ancestors might have interacted with the aquatic clouded. Jeremiah kept himself quiet for now, he'd let the Evokers make the uproar before announcing himself. While the Evokers were sure to cause a stir, the head of Lufirian Intelligence would almost certainly be cause for alarm. Jeremiah looked over at Miredy, and little Jane--the girl had been almost impossible to separate from the lamia. He offered the girl a small smile. Jane's head was on a swivel as they entered the city. Though, for once it was more because of how different the place was then concern. Everything seemed more... clean, and vibrant. There were other clouded too, but it was mostly humans. However, her short time with the Tigers, and Miredy was calming. They weren't going to hurt her, and from the sounds of it, it seemed like most of them were resolved to protect her and to help her find her mother. She saw Jeremiah smile at her, and she shrank back into Miredy's warmth before giving him a nod. Some of these humans were different... Jeremiah had spent good time coming to check on her, and so had the tired lady--she always had a bit of a shimmer about her. She hadn't said a word to her yet, but Jane felt herself relaxing each time she came to check. Tio remained in the wagon until it was time to disembark. Her exhaustion was starting to fade away, so it was about time to get back into the swing of things. With Elisa at her side, she was scribbling away in her notebook. Jeremiah's sudden arrival at the height of their weakness was an uncomfortable meeting, but true to Aegean and Versaris's word, the man was reasonable, and agreed to defer any conversation until they had arrived at Eslcas. Something that Tio appreciated greatly; neither she and Elisa were really up to such a conversation at this point, but now, they were a little more prepared. He was their gateway into some topics that they were never going to be able to answer on their own, so they were going to have to take this chance by the horns. Though, that was only one conversation that was approaching. As the wagons stopped, and they arrived at the castle, there was another, equally as important conversation coming down the line. The simple fact was that Glacies and Islexia were not on the best of terms, and hadn't been since the Islexian Collapse. Tensions were probably at their worst as of recent, so if the other warlords got a hint of both Evokers being present in their country, there was no telling where that would go afterwards. Above all else, war was to be avoided. That meant that they needed to keep a reasonably low profile as they began to make their push to their destination. "So many questions... This is going to be a very difficult couple of hours..." Nita nodded as Cassandra explained the situation, a frown appearing on her face when Kieran was mentioned. It was what he requested, and really, nothing different was going to happen with him, but it still bothered her. They'd all been working together for so long, for him to just take action like that on his own... even if it was against one of the Belrose. While she'd really skipped over it that night, it was shocking that a Belrose, one from the most powerful warlord family was here and going to be assisting them against Kazran. She almost definitely had her reasons, but... she'd have been lying if she didn't see some merit in Kieran's actions. The Belrose were absolutely responsible for Kazran running amok, as they were for most warlords. If the Belrose so much as wished it, the rest of Islexia would crash down on Kazran and end his operation with in a matter of weeks, but while they didn't partake in the darker elements of Kazran's operation, they did benefit from it. However, actions were king for a Muran, and if she was here to fight with them, then she was not a Belrose, but a member of the Tigers. "Right, if you would follow after me..." Nita turned, and began leading the group inside the castle. The inner castle was well maintained, but almost unnervingly sparse. The muted gray walls with only decoration perhaps once every hallway seemed to only heighten the urgency with which they needed to act, their footsteps bouncing off the wall as the occasional guard saluted their passing. Yet, in that desperation, there was a confidence amongst those they past. The guards inside were not as unnerved as the ones from the gates, and there was genuine vibrance to their movements and actions. Perhaps they were sheltered from the reality that those outside felt, but it brought some needed light to the dingy castle. Finally, the group passed through a large archway into the most brightly furnished room in the castle so far. The carpet, and the banner in the back of the room were both of a vibrant green, with five points each in a different color, Red, Orange, Yellow, White, and Blue. A line connected the five points, starting past the red, and linking the other four, creating what appeared to be an incomplete five pointed star. There were a handful of pillars off to the side, and a window to the back of the room that allowed them to see out to the sea behind them. Natural light filled the room, revealing a large table with all sorts of maps all over it and several people sitting at it, and a pink haired man gazing out of the window. His dress matched that Cassandra's, a sword at his side. Nita walked further in, before clearing her throat, "Lord Owen... Our guests have arrived."

In the hustle and bustle of the day before, Alouette had forgotten something rather important about the festival. It always started yesterday, but because of the sudden combat, things were postponed until today, June 21st. Alouette woke on time, fortunately, she wasn't as tired after eating and speaking more with Lorelei--her circuits made it a toss up of whether she'd wake on time, or late. She'd only just rolled out of bed when she noticed the letter in front of the door, almost knowing exactly who it was from before she picked it up, and opened it. It had almost been eight years at this point, and still Alouette could tell Katherine's handwriting anywhere--her closest friend, and one of the people who helped her escape her unenviable position. A request for celebration for her birthday. Alouette sighed, and then squeezed the letter to her chest, feeling a sense of relief wash over her for a moment. It really felt like she was home, and in the good way, especially since Katherine mentioned that Bars would be far away by the time anything happened. The threat of him being present still hung over her, but the bright sun of Katherine, the festival, and almost certainly Lyria were keeping those clouds at bay. Alouette happily got herself prepared, dress, boots, and corset all on and secured. She waffled about on her harness, but there really was no telling if they would be attacked again, or if something would need her to suddenly be mobile. It wasn't that she couldn't deal with it, it was that she would prefer not to if she didn't have to. She was... quite a bit more developed than the last time that she'd been to the festival, and if she didn't want every person with eyes gawking, it was probably for the best to have it and adjust as necessary. Though, first she worried about putting the bright blue orchid into her hair, a shift from the white of yesterday, and the same kind of flower that she wore each birthday. "Lorelei should probably be up already... I shoul--hmm?" A knock at her door, and a voice she hadn't expected to come to her announced herself, requesting her for something. "Oh, uh, hold on a moment, I'll be right there." She continued fiddling with the harness as she walked over, and pulled open the door, "A request? What exactly could I help you with?"

Alouette nodded, "I'll do what I can, Lorelei. Especially if it helps Phantasma. I'm not the greatest story teller, but I'll return to you with what I can." She was going to move forward with this. It would be an excellent sort of test for how far her magic had come, and how well she could really manage. Her parents had always been so harsh on her and her circuitry issue; all of her other siblings may not have been as strong as she was, but they were still very strong, and didn't need anywhere near the kind of support that she did. They all but gave up on her, and tried to use her in other ways; such as her incredible beauty. But now, she had a chance to prove them wrong to doubt her. Alouette blinked at the man's response, before sighing, it was a reaction that she was well used to. It was clear that he didn't mean anything by it, so Alouette moved past it. "Even so, if something happened to the princess, I'd have failed in my duties, and I'm glad that didn't come to pass." She blinked again, as she watched a different emotion wash over the man's face, recognition. "...Yes, my name is Alouette. Does... that ring any bells?" Alouette took on a bit more of an inquisitive look. He didn't look like anyone that she recognized, but it really did sound like he either knew someone by her name, or knew about her. Or perhaps it was the prelude to him flirting--that was a method that some had tried before.

June 10th, 1218 PAF Location: Eslcas, Islexia Time: About Noon The day following the attack was thankfully quiet; with Jeremiah watching over them, and tension still high from the night before, the Underground hadn't tried for a reprisal. They moved quickly, electing to not give them a chance to mount a counter attack, and maintained confidence that they would have time to truly rest when they arrived as Eslcas. Their return to Sipa was met with their companions, and the Evokers--both still unsteady on their feet--but the relief, and joy was uplifting. After a small break, and Tio's sheer disbelief that Jeremiah was both present, and accompanying them to Eslcas, it was decided that any further talks as to their mission, Mercuria, and their current course of action would wait until Eslcas. Fully reunified, and with the wagons at their back--the Tigers set out for Eslcas, for the next part of their objective. After another day of travel with more frequent breaks as the exhaustion truly came back in force, the walls of the Islexian city came into view. For once, the heat was tempered by a sea breeze as Eslcas was much closer to the coast than Sipa was, as well as being on one of the few rivers that flowed in Islexia. The city was incredibly well placed, both residing in one of the most fertile areas in Islexia, and overseeing a prominent trade route. The Gaffney family had controlled this area for dating back decades, even before the collapse of Unified Islexia. A small noble family with deep ties to the crown, and who valiantly answered the call when they were murdered. Oswald Gaffney led his forces, and was one of the survivors of the failed offensive that saw Islexia devolve into factionalism. For years following the collapse, Oswald defended his lands against the many warlords who dreamed of controlling the fertile region, and the growing trade route. The city eventually build up the walls to protect itself from the constant fighting, and continued to grow and flourish. Yet, things must come to an end. When the news came that Oswald had been slain in combat, Eslcas, and the people of their lands wept. The attacks continued no matter how many tears fell, and so Oswald's children had to step up in his stead. Eslcas was a farcry from that of Sipa; the dusty paths were replaced with roads, and while the buildings inside weren't in perfect repair, they were build considerably better than those in Sipa. There were more people than there had been in Sipa--not quite to the degree of Cerezia--and more importantly, was that there were occasionally clouded wandering about. The atmosphere was different to that of Sipa, for both better, and worse. The guards that ushered the party in were on edge, concerned over the number of people with hoods. The people inside were uneasy, and the arrival of more armed mercenaries seemed to heighten that unease. The sweet breeze of the sea was tempered by the waves of uncertainty. Finally, the wagons brought the group to the gates of the small castle--not unlike the one they had assailed to rescue their friends--and there waiting for them was Nita, alongside Cass. Nita hurried forward, waving at the guards, "You can leave this folk to us; they are here to assist us." She nodded at them, and turned back to the wagons, "It's... good to see that you all appear to be in one piece. Lady Cassandra is with me, and Lord Owen is still inside handling other matters."