Open An Unending Duty

[Lucia Mierz]

Bringing a hand to her chin, she mused as her thumb crossed from side to side. Glancing back at Mortimer briefly meeting his gaze despite his mask, Lucia thought a bit deeper on whether Sylvanas and Mortimer would be able to continue. "Mm, Perhaps not them necessarily. If Alice is the Catalyst, and Sylvanas is my general, Mortimer is an ideal steward and Morgana an Admiral but I lack more personel. Someone to act as an official in my stead who would function as an architect, someone who could take over the crafting duties, someone to pass on Magical Lore, as well as someone who could function as the spirit and heart for morals and ethics, some kind of religious figure." Lucia commented, counting off the subordinates she was missing. She needed at least 4 more before she could be confident that things could continue in her stead without her. Finding figures powerful enough and worthy of such an endeavor would be difficult though. "Perhaps I should start going on more adventures to find more historical figures." She mused again taking a glance at Mortimer who coughed in answer. The Wraith King after all was the result of one such quest.

Though when he talked about needing to clean up and his thoughts on his own polluted territory, Lucia craned her neck. She wasn't quite sure what method was used, but Lucia's methods were all dark magic related. "Hm. I used to do it with coins, a coin in the well, a coin in the river, curses and poison spreading from there." Lucia mused, reaching towards Mortimer who was already reaching back to her to place a coin in her hand. Tightening her grip briefly, the simple metal coin turned a polished white, as if it went from metal to porcelain but it was still metallic to the touch. "If you want to use this to try and mitigate that and purify the landscape, you can." She spoke, making an artifact from a coin in a blink, she didn't think it would be too hard to counteract Vivian's methods given her own abilities.

Hearing the joke though, Lucia shook her head, both to the help and the jest. She didn't think there was much words could do for her in reality. She had people in her life, and had things to do, they just didn't bring her much joy or the change she needed. "They just don't like to hear about my pessimism. Even if it were to die to join them, you might consider it a stain on whatever dignity everyone feels I have." She spoke with a chuckle and a grin as if finding it amusing that anyone would mistake her for a person with a sense of pride

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

He sat there confused yet curious. Lucia had ended up giving him an answer to a question he hadn't even asked and yet, that only provided more questions answers. He was by no means, a master over the undead, as opposed to Lucia herself or that blasted witch. He could only imagine she refrained herself from teaching him the craft, If only out of fear that he might try to kill her one day. As methodical as ever, she was right to assume the former but that didn't mean he couldn't or wouldn't eliminate her through other methods. Being the paranoid soul however, he already knew she wouldn't make it easy. He lamented however, as she little importance on the matter as of now. Regardless, due to his lack of knowledge and experience, he found himself ignorant on the matter, which he hoped Lucia clear up. As he rested the side of his hand on the tip of his chin, he began caressing the side of his cheek with the tip of his right thumb.

Hmm...Is there a specific reason why you can't just create more powerful or intelligent beings like Mortimar and Sylvanas? Do you require the corpse or soul of a once, powerful or intelligent individual to create a being like them? As intriguing as this is, the witch never taught me about the secrets of necromancy so I'm pretty ignorant on the matter....and It ain't like this type of knowledge is just something you can pickup at a library. Most individuals look down on those who manipulate the dead in any way.

With the exception of low level undead, whom were usually raised in a typical fashion through some sort of spell, he had no knowledge of sentient undead. He didn't know such sophisticated undead even existed until just a short time ago. They may be classified as "undead" but surely If they had sentience to that of a normal human being, calling them merely undead as he once did be more akin to a racist slur than anything else, so what would they call themselves if such a place existed? As usual, he wanted to give more thought on the matter but as intriguing as It was, he remembered he could just ask the two near him. With that mind and his curiosity still in command, he swung his gaze from Lucia to Mortimar and Sylvanas. He wanted to hear their thoughts on the matter.

Mortimar, Sylvanas, what are your thoughts on the matter? Given the fact that you two are clearly above the droves of undead that can be found wandering in decaying ruins and tarnished battlefields, and are just as sentient as us, humans, what would you call yourselves from a racial standpoint? If the both of you, and others like you, lived within the walls of the necropolis Lucia founded? Obviously, from my own experience, calling you just "undead" would be a great disservice to you, a unacceptable racial slur If you will. We can't have that.

When the conversation gravitated towards cleansing his former land from Vivian's handiwork , he found himself both amazed and relieved by Lucia's willingness to help. By now, It shouldn't have been any surprise, given how much the two had changed yet somehow, he still allowed himself to be taken back, as If he was expecting a different outcome. Needless to say, It was a nice gesture, and for that, he felt honored in some way, despite the lack of effort Lucia had seemingly put into making the artifact. Once she slid the coin across the table towards him, he caught it within the palm of his hand as It made it's way off the table's edge. Taking a quick glance at it, It was hard not to notice the differences. Apart from it being cold to the touch, as all metallic items were, he couldn't help but notice the almost snow white finish It now had, or the fact how light It was in his hands. He gambled that If he wished, he could probably crush in his hands as he doubted It was no stronger than the porcelain vase he carried. After he was finished, he quickly put the coin in one of his white haori's pockets before he looked back up. He now felt obligated to bow before Lucia as a show of gratitude but knowing her, that would be seen as too much for her, especially over something that required zero effort on her part to make so instead, he settled for a cheerful smile.

This is nice, thank you Lucia. This will help me in undoing the damage she caused. I just hope she didn't do anything else there.

Than as If he suddenly remembered Vivian could perform dark magic again, he sighed in an annoying, half jokingly matter as his head tilted slightly towards the ground.

I'm so gonna kill that woman If she ended up making the remaining survivors or those buried into undead.

Tilting his head than sideways, he made a beguile grin.

Unless......you prefer to punish her that is.

He chuckled momentarily afterwards, as to show he was only teasing....well mostly. Given the heavy amount of rumors he heard about his former retainer and knowing full well of Lucia's sexual orientation, It was rather easy to put two and two together. Whether or not she still wanted her however was a different topic altogether. He could only remember it being one of Vivian's reasons for leaving.

Afterwards, he found himself at ease, If still slightly paranoid for paranoia sake, when her chuckling self reassured him that he was fine, that her servants simply didn't like her being negative, he nodded along, muttering "Good to know" to himself. Wanting to change the subject, as to not earn their wrath in some other fashion, he cleared his throat before speaking with a light expression.

So....any plans? Now that your out of the hell that we call the other world, I'm sure you have a long list of things you want to do.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

Hearing him ask about more intelligent undead on the level of her top tier subordinates though, Lucia rolled her head in thought for a moment, musing on the materials required. Truly it varied, the art of 'crafting' an undead wasn't impossible, after all, Sylvanas and Alice fell within the realm of 'built undead' while Mortimer and Morgana could be considered 'salvaged goods'. If she lumped them all together without care for the end result being natural or artificial, her requirements were a lot simpler. "I can't say for certain how it is for others. My power as I mentioned comes from two core principles, Vice and Virtue-- I don't think it's the same for others." Lucia began, the structure of her magic was just built differently, so she couldn't really say whether or not her method was common. "My requirements though; I need intensity in life. For Sylvanas, the will to protect and her overwhelming sense of duty, For Mortimer, it was lust for blood and violence, For Alice it was hunger, starvation and pain, for Morgana it was vengeance and hate." Lucia mused, each of her high level subordinates died in a heightened state of emotion. Desires and feelings so strong they lasted long after their own deaths, for centuries in the cases of Morgana and Mortimer.

"If they were weak in life, I can just build them up with supplemental parts, if they lacked knowledge, I could pull some from the Fate's Weave. The most important part is something that lingers and goes beyond the life they had before." She tried to imply the power of emotions and desires extended far beyond one's sense of self. When spoken to though, Sylvanas who had been silent was the first to speak, eyes closed as a silent statue monitoring things, her ruby red eyes, lacking any pupil or iris opened briefly as she spoke bluntly. "Referring to us as undead would be no different from calling you 'living'. While I wouldn't be opposed to it, it doesn't really differentiate us if you were asking for classification. I am a Queen Wight, a mutated species of Dread Knight and Banshee... But I am also an Elf, I don't know what you'd take away from that as far as what I would be considered." Sylvanas explained, only for Mortimer to nod along, stroking his chin in thought. "In the same regard that you're human perhaps, compared to the Faerin, the Elvish, the Caenis, as my associate here is a Wight in origin, I also could be considered a Wraith. However, in the case of my Daughter, she would be what is considered a 'Necrofex', while little Alice is an 'Abomination'. As it stands there are far too many classifications for those like us to fall into, which makes these species based classifications somewhat challenging. It's why, much like our Saint, we tend to resort to using 'Undead' as a sort of Umbrella term if you will." Mortimer proposed.

Though when he brought up being different from other undead, Mortimer nodded along. "Mm, Perhaps you refer to 'The Exhausted' or 'The Exalted' as we've come to call them? Though I suppose it would also be a disservice to say they lacked Sentience as we've clashed with their ilk from time to time as well." Mortimer explained but Sylvanas almost scoffed at the notion. "The Liches and Dread knights are certainly sentient enough to know better, yet they insist on these wars and clashes." It seemed to bother Sylvanas greatly that they came to blows as members of the same group, but it was clear from the pair's disposition that much like humans, the undead also found themselves at odds.

Being told about her dark magic and undead possibilities though, Lucia shook her head. Vivian was neither capable nor skilled enough to use Necromancy. She was instead more of a traditional black mage as Lucia was in her origin. It was why she could casually craft an artifact like trinket to deal with the issue, the poisoning of water ways and long lasting subtle curses of killing had been Lucia's specialty after all. It was an easy and quick fix more often then not. "No, I'm not one to dwell on past affairs such as that. After all, the loss of one such as me is already a devastating enough punishment some would say." Lucia couldn't help cracking a wide grin. She wasn't someone who was prideful, but understood her own value, losing an asset like her would be painful no matter who it was.

Being asked about her plans though, she craned her neck once more, glancing to Mortimer, then to Sylvanas before turning her body towards her tent. "I have some damaged furniture that needs to be rebuilt. A lot of it is still standing but won't last long, it had been buried and worn in the four years. We'll be replacing that with some freshly built pieces, then begin clearing out Mortimer's gardens and drop zones in the woods between Astorea and Falderan." She spoke, tapping a finger to the table when she turned back around, as if musing on what her next step would be. "Then, I'll have to probably deal with some rivals. Either the Tomb King or the Abyssal Duke. I'll likely be soliciting others for the actual invasions of their domains though." Lucia mused as if not having quite decided which might be best tackled first.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

After she had shed some light on the matter, dispelling some of the mystery in the process, he was left with a interesting answer. Not a very insightful one as he may have left but nonetheless a interesting one. From a academic standpoint, he was curious in learning more, specifically on their actual construction, and how they were created through the user of powerful emotions. She had given some insight on the matter through the explanation of her powers but that simply wasn't enough for his old, knowledge hungry self. Nonetheless, he refrained from asking anymore questions, particularly on the last bit, which he could only guess was the soul or something relating to it. Perhaps If he was lucky in the future, he could see her handiwork first hand but until than, he have to be patient.

As for regarding his question on the topic of classification however, It was quickly made apparent that coming up with a universal term for a sentient undead would be difficult, If not downright impossible, given all the possibilities one could range from. What really made him puzzled however was the fact that Sylvanas considered herself a "woman" even though she had died long ago and was now, to his knowledge, a genderless undead. That response forced some confusion he hadn't been expecting. As such, after he gave a gentle touch to the top of his head with one of his middle fingers, he turned towards the two in a inquisitive matter, curious to learn more.

As someone who is intrigued by Undead culture, would you two consider gender important? Relevant even? Disregarding one's sexual orientation or desires, I do not believe Humans or for that matter, mortals would even care for genders If reproduction wasn't necessary or personal, and often, messy endeavors. As such, due to my limited knowledge on the matter, most Undead typically can't reproduce under normal circumstances, so If you go with that logic, wouldn't It be similar? If not the same? Beyond, perhaps using it as part of one's identity?

He hoped their wouldn't be any bad blood between them. It wasn't as If It was his intention to be rude on the matter, It was simply a genuine question he wished to ask about. They have to pardon him for being ignorant but there were doubt in his eyes he ever get the opportunity again, given their rarity and how necromancers usually acted in a world such as this. He even had his doubts whether or not he see Lucia again, and If he did, he had no idea when that would be. In spite of that, It didn't help either that he found the two fascinating as individuals. He was particularly interested in hearing about their past and how It would contribute to a Undead society but atlas, even he knew he be stepping over a line If he asked something that personal. Those thoughts quickly subsided however once Mortimar brought up yet another fascinating subject, one that involved cordial or hostile relations between bet themselves and other Undead. It was another dynamic he hadn't thought but with Mortimar and Sylvanas near his side, It did make sense, though that only made him more curious on the matter, especially after Slyvanas indirectly showed hostility towards a class of undead was he familiar with. Rolling his eyes to their sides as he tilted his head sideways, he retained his attention on the two as he went about asking them another question in the same fashion as before.

Are Undead usually at odds with one another when no third party such as when your Saint isn't involved? Or do you tolerate those who fit under the same universal classification? As someone whom has fought their fair share of Liches and Dread Knights in the past, I can understand Sylvanas viewpoint on the matter. Given their natures, I'm not particularly sure they can be reasoned with....unless they came across someone whom was more stupendously powerful than themselves.

As the two continued their conversation about the little vixen that had betrayed them both, he found himself both amused and entertained. He tried to speak initially but he found himself victim to her grin, triggering him to laugh. Only after a few seconds, could he control himself enough to speak, even If It was in a more laid back tone.

Heh, fair enough, I was only teasing.

He laughed a little more after that. For once, he gotten the exact answer he had been expecting. Had he gotten the opposite, he wouldn't know how to feel about that, confirming what he had already knew, or that Vivian had been a special case for whatever reason. Regardless, he was happy she was able to take a joke with him, even If he did agree with her in the end, that It was Vivian's lost, not hers. That did make him wonder for a moment. He wondered what would have happened If he was also a woman of the opposite orientation? He shrugged slightly at his own thought. Maybe It was best not to know.

Though her initial answer proved to be uninteresting, given how Lucia had always liked to keep up appearances, the next portion grabbed his attention, specifically on the rivals he had never heard of, let alone met. He could only guess she made those while he had been away, dealing with real life issues. While he was sure Mortimer would be glad when his gardens would be restored to their former beauty, It was becoming clearer to him as they talked that, there was much for him to catch up on, and most likely, not enough time, considering his other responsibilities. Still, by the time she finished, he found himself beaming with curiosity, wanting to know even more.

That's interesting, I didn't know you replace me but I shouldn't be surprised that someone of your caliber would have new rivals. Just by their names alone, they sound pretty intimidating and you need an army to take them out? Hopefully Synra will aid you in this. It does sound like you need it, even with your own personal forces at hand.

After having made a brow, he suddenly realized their entire conversation had been about her the entire time, much to his dismay. Once he came to this realization however, he found himself falling back into his chair with a smile. He even giggled a bit before looking up at Lucia with a smile.

Jeesh, I just realized we been talking about you this entire time. Sorry about that, that wasn't exactly my intention. Diiiid....you wanna ask me about something? I'm a pretty open book so I doubt you could really ask me something that would annoy or upset me....well besides for what's already been brought up.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

For a moment, the group chuckled when the topic of gender was brought up, it was an amusing thing to think about for certain. For Sylvanas and Mortimer, they simply clung to the things they had in life, though for most undead things likely wouldn't be as important. "It was merely one of our many titles I suppose you could say, relics of the past as it were." Mortimer tried to explain though Sylvanas's thoughts were slightly different. Crimson eyes briefly sliding in Lucia's direction as she spoke of her thoughts. "For some of us such a thing is still valuable. But as you say it doesn't have much purpose for the moment at least." Sylvanas spoke humbly but Lucia was the one who tapped a finger against the table as she interjected. "They say Seto a group that lacks self-sufficiency will inevitably be weeded out if not through conflict, then certainly through evolution. It might not have much significance now, but some day they will reproduce on their own... some day they will be a true and genuine race. So it's important to maintain some titles for now until they can settle into distinctions of their own when the method is uncovered." she explained with a shrug. That was another pet project she'd need to worry about, but for now it was fine to wait since they could always swell their numbers with corpses.

When speaking on third parties again though, Sylvanas only further clenched her fists in disapproval. "It's a tale as old as time. 'The Exhausted' clash with 'The Exalted', it is an eternal battle of Chaos and Stagnation-- The idiots." She complained almost spitting at the mere mention, as if it were disgusting. Though seeing that Sylvanas had no intention of elaborating further, Mortimer explained bringing a hand to his mask's forehead. "I suppose you could say they were always at odds, our saintess in truth represents a small third party both sides have been trying to sway since we've come to be. Our Miss is the only one with a means of mass producing Sentient individuals after all... A process that might take centuries of natural processes is accomplished in a few days by our Miss with the right resources, so you can understand why they have conflict with us. Our Saintess that desires a system of order and progress would never be accepted wholly by either side unfortunately, which leaves us in the center of their conflict rather then able to take a side." Mortimer explained in detail the unfortunate state of the undead as of now. For the living it was perhaps an invisible world, unseen and uncared for, but for them it was a very real war still being waged no doubt.

Though when he mentioned a power more powerful, Lucia shook her head as if Seto had a misunderstanding. "Those liches and Dread Knights, serve their own lords and divines. Urukhan, Synra's father owns one faction, while the other side, are led by a rogue faction of dark mages that serve Idna in an effort to escape death and learn the secrets of the universe. It's unlikely that you'd find a group that's not associated with either of these two groups. While Synra does send some back, I've not come across a solid faction with a foundation to consider myself a part of either." Lucia explained with a helpless shrug. Neither of the two groups she'd seen were headed by the goddess she chose, it was peculiar, but it was also why she was in the pickle she was in.

When he mentioned replacing him though, Lucia hesitated before understanding the misunderstanding came from the title 'duke'. She couldn't help laughing before shaking her head and waving the amusing thought away, Seto seemed so dispirited she couldn't help finding it a little funny. "No no, you misunderstand. The Abyssal Duke, is not one of us, I didn't say my rivals were travelers as we are after all." She implied that they weren't players which should make the answer easier to understand. "No, The Tomb King leads a small cell of 'The Exalted' in their eternal battle, as the Abyssal Duke wastes away in the squalor of a ruined under water Duchy compelling 'The Exhausted' in the region to fight and kill. In that respect, they are rival leaders of an undead collective." She explained with a simple hand gesture.

When Seto seemed to notice they were just talking about her and her projects though, Lucia chuckled modestly and shook her head. "Very few people see this world from my eyes. You wouldn't know about these battles and these undead struggles normally so I understand it's interesting. How they're built, what they're made of, it's an interesting topic, it was how I got so invested. Few see the world outside of the next big dungeon or world boss." Lucia explained as if understanding, few would know about the troubles she got mixed up in on the sides after all, it was why her faction didn't have much political power even when she was a duchess, she was off fighting these battles even long before the 4 year break while others were debating and arguing about what the players should do she was making plans for the undead. "Most of the things I'd wanted to ask have already been answered though, your plans, goals, what became of your territory. I can only hope it's easily resolved and no longer problematic now." she spoke with a weary smile, knowing she herself would have to check on her would be duchy some time.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

Having been satisfied with their answers, he was one step closer to understanding the psyche of the Undead like Mortiumer and Sylvanas. It was a development he had already speculated to be true but regardless, It was reassuring to hear it from their own lips so to say. As someone who was originally the "Black Duke, he also understood Sylvanas's viewpoint all too well, that It could be difficult in letting go of one's pride and being strong enough to move on. When they finished, he was about to give the two a nod but Lucia's tapping of the table of the finger forced him to draw his attention elsewhere, allowing Lucia to give her own two cents on the matter. With her initial assessment, he found himself agreeing, having learned that truth well during his time in the war. Without the proper logistics, units would go without, food, water, resupply of ammunition and equipment, even the small things like receiving mail from home could make a world of difference out of there. A unit that couldn't be resupplied on a bi weekly basis or one that couldn't be self sufficient by living off the nearby land would quickly find themselves either routed or would desert. There was also his other experiences he gained later in when he became one of the community leaders of Nawusawa and when he became the ruler of his own settlement. Though they were different from his time in the war, much remained the same, the only difference was that instead of trying to keep a military unit out in the field for the long amount of time one could, he was trying to do the same with the communities he found himself a part of, though It was obvious trying to make a town self sufficient would be far more difficult. Although his experiences didn't exactly align with Lucia was saying, he understood the point well enough. The second part of her statement however threw him off guard, though no in the usual way. He knew she meant well and while he had no issue with the matter himself, He couldn't say that for his mind. The images of decaying corpses reproducing like mortals was a sickening picture he really didn't want to see but his mind cared little for that. Finding disgust with himself, he inadvertently ended up avoiding Lucia gaze as he looked elsewhere, his eyes drifting towards he ceiling of the tent.

Sylvanas's spite on the topic of was a interesting one, and one he hadn't anticipated, although due to her pride as a high tier warrior and being a civilized Undead, he could understand her viewpoint as much as he could, from the perspective of a "living" outsider, and as If It was his cue, Mortimer decided to elaborate more on the topic as soon as Sylvanas finished. From what he was told, he had been expecting many factions of many different ideologies yet much to his surprise, Mortimer was implying there was only the three, the "Exhausted", the "Exalted" and the Lucia's own group, which compared to the others, sounded like "radicals" or as "Evolutionists". Regardless, they had his sympathies. If he could aid them, he would but unlike Lucia or even his former self, there was little, If anything he could to help. He was after all, just a warrior and little else now. He doubt that would change any time soon. Moments later however, when Lucia moved to correct him about his comment on his dealings with Liches and the Dread Knight, he ended up shaking his head himself.

Sorry, I misspoke, I meant the renegades, the ones whom only served themselves. The overly ambitious ones. I never stumbled across ones whom were part of a religious collective or a rogue organization. If I had, I probably would have been more cautious. Even back than, I had no intention of earning the ire of one of the Divines or some organization. As If I had the time than. If I had however, they certainly didn't do anything to move against me or Dawngrave.

Having said that, he still found what Lucia had said as interesting. It hadn't came across his mind but the image of a empowered Lich or a Dread Knight by a Divine was a frightful one indeed. The same could be said for a massive organization led by Liches and Dread Knights. If they united and marched to war, he very well doubted any of the existing armies could stop them. It wasn't as If Astorea had a professional standing army for situations like this. He was much too soft, or lacked the foresight to do what was truly necessary. Again, he had no intention of ruling but It still annoyed him that Astorea wasn't as optimized as It could be. It just showed Astor wasn't the King he could be. He relented, there wasn't much point in thinking about it. He have to work with what he had.

When Lucia began laughing, he in response ended up looking at her in a curious matter, even as she tried to wave off his concerns, which he didn't have any? But that was fine, he didn't care. It was adorable in a way to see Lucia act in such a fashion, watching her throw her arms up and talking in such a matter to dissuade him from thinking he had been replaced. If they were somehow still rivals, he certainly didn't see himself worthy as such, considering how far the gap had grown in their power since the last time they met. Regardless however, he was nonetheless touched by her words.

Well, I meant in general. It's not as If a rival needs to be a player but I'll take the compliment anyway.

He smiled before joining her in her laugh. He couldn't help it but afterwards? As she explained the situation to him, he still found himself intrigued by her "new" rivals of sorts, even If she didn't consider them as such. Even If they were NPC's, even he could see them as viable threats to her power base and If they were just as intelligent? It was clear as day they were as much of a threat as he was back in the day so yes, in a way, they could be seen as more than mere enemies, especially If they seeked the complete destruction of her group's ideology. With that said, he was interesting in learning more. He wanted to know just how much of a threat they were, not only to herself but to the living as well.

Even If you don't consider them as rivals, It's still a given there a risk to your own power base. How do you plan on weakening them? And how threating are they to the rest of the land? Astorea has no professional, standing army after all. Without the aid of the masses, I'm sure Astorea would be destroyed.

The last of his words were harsh but It was true. Without the aid of the players, Astorea would surely fall, It was a given since Astor had made little plans in case of the worst scenerio's, and It wasn't like there was that many veterans still around him. Lucia and himself were valuable commodities in a way. If they were going to be a potential threat, he needed to know. It was simple as that. He found himself yet again agreeing with Lucia. It was true, he wasn't a necromancer fighting for the revolution the Undead like Mortimer and Sylvanas wished for so he couldn't understand completely. Of course he felt somewhat insulted when Lucia thought his interested arose from excitement. It did not. It was purely out of curiosity but despite, he refrained from asking questionings or showing emotion for that matter, preferring to just listen instead. When she finished however, citing she had no questions for him, whether as Seto or as his real life counterpart, he began chuckling from the back of his chair.

That's a relief, and here I thought you were going to ask me about my love life.

He carried on for a few more moments before ending it with a smile.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

Lucia seemed to brood slightly on Seto's words, as if wondering if she should continue trying to break down the design as she was aware of it at least. In the end though, knowledge was power, if it could help, she'd want to try. "Half true I suppose, perhaps my words make these groups seem organized like a military or a kingdom's government. It would be better to think of them as pockets of different groups, some perhaps not even aware of the goal they're working towards or the master they inadvertently serve is what I've come to gather. Many of the selfish sort push forward into the mysteries of life and death are groups usually sheltered or propagated by the Exhausted as those wishing to return to rest and bring others to rest as well are along the Exalted." Lucia explained with a gesture as if it were a grand design or scheme, some of the puppets were likely intelligent but unaware of their role in the plan. Lucia herself was perhaps a pawn in some higher group's plan that serves the balance as well, but as of yet she hadn't yet met another member from a faction at all like her own.

Exhaling a sigh, Lucia leaned back though, shaking her head in disapproval at his thoughts on replacement. "Mm, I just don't like to be misunderstood, and these rivals have been ones I've been aware of for a long time. Reaching them however, has always remained a chore. I'd made an effort once, with Vivian even, but we didn't advance particularly far into their territory before needing to turn back. It's just too well protected." She sighed with a shrug, a flippant hand gesture as if there was nothing that could be done. For Lucia, it wouldn't be hard to battle and raid if she could ever move the entirety of her force; It was unfortunate she simply couldn't do so in raids. The problem was when the opponent had similar techniques and styles as her's that things became problematic. Without her subordinates or techniques for their creation she was a skilled mage but not one that could sway the scales against a boss like figure.

Seto seemed to think she thought less of them though, it was unfortunately the opposite, their power bases were far larger then her's. Compared to her rag-tag camp out in the wilderness, they had actual castles and fortresses sequestered away from normal worldly affairs. It was why it was so difficult for her to approach them unfortunately. "I'm going to enlist some help, a few parties of players I'm familiar with and form some teams. The plan, if all goes well I suppose, would be for me to attack them from the front as I usually do, perhaps with more determination and willingness to sacrifice I suppose... While they're busy concentrating efforts to deal with me, it will thin out their bases to the extent that a small elite force could infiltrate and hopefully deal with the leader. As for how threatening they are... They don't extend their reach outside of their territories usually, but you will see bands, squads, ships of their ilk attacking from time to time. People think it's just a regular monster spawn camp, but really I'm sure they're more along the lines of scouting parties." She spoke as if she'd been planning it for a long time, unfortunately she didn't have much more info on the layouts of their particular turfs, just that she was aware of where one might find them.

In regards to his love life though, Lucia shook her head, a mellow understanding smile on herself. She wasn't sure who would be the type to dive into such a topic, but she wasn't one of them at least considering some might consider it too personal a question. "No, no, I would never make that type of inquiry, I've never been much of a gossip I guess. That would require a depth of social skills that I just don't possess." She chuckled, she spoke well, of course, but that didn't mean she had an understanding of social maneuvering or anything of the sort. How one would even navigate into such a topic was frankly beyond her. "The most important point, is that you're happy. I'm not one who would pry deeper then that." She offered in kind hoping her words were a relief.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

That had certainly cleared things up for him, and made more sense now that she had explained it. It was apparent he had overestimated these groups, having initially thought they were bigger than what they were, If their alias were any indication of that, but from his personal experiences, It was always best to do that than the later. Regardless however, even If they were only modestly sized groups with only a vague goal and no true master at the head, that still didn't mean they couldn't be a viable threat. At some point down the road, he have to look into these threats himself If they truly risked a danger to Astorea, though he be sure to keep Lucia in the loop If he did, not wanting to earn her wrath from disrupting whatever plans she potentially had on the matter. He gave the matter a few more moments for thought before nodding his head in approval. He found his focus broken however when Lucia took a page out of his book and sighed. By the swaying of her head, It was apparent he did not have her approval. By her words, he had read the situation wrong but while he had been touched that he still held some influence over to still be considered a "rival", he hadn't been completely serious. That said, he did understand her and the point she was trying to get across. Due to the past, he even understood the later pain just as well. Defeating a cunning enemy or one that was trenched in would always be a difficult ordeal, even for the strongest and most powerful. It was no surprise to him, that even with individuals such as Vivian and others that she didn't succeed. He did momentarily wonder though If things would be different this time around, considering the fact she was most likely stronger than before. It was given however that she need more individuals like herself If she wanted to succeed.

Upon hearing her plans in enlisting help however, he found himself nodding in approval. As he already thought, the ordeal would prove difficult but with the right strategies, tactic's and individuals, she could pull it off, especially If they wielded radically different skill sets than her own. It would also help her cause If she had a elite vanguard of her own that was loyal to her and her alone. A small unit of enhanced Sylvanas's would do the trick but even he knew that would most likely be a dauting task, given how Lucia had already indirectly mentioned the difficulty in creating Undead like Sylvanas.

Regardless of whatever she would do, he still didn't know If she had the stomach to sacrifice those she cared about to reach her goal. It's always easy to say but difficult to execute, especially when in the command of those who can't be brought back without causing further pain. Both of them knew that pain. With all that said however, he didn't know If she had the stomach to sacrifice those she cared about to reach her goals. It was easy to say but difficult to execute

Well If they ever inadvertently or otherwise, threaten Astorea, feel free to call upon me, If you wish. I don't need to tell you that you need a vast amount of individuals with different skill sets to pull off your plans. In the mean time however, If they ever encroach on Astorea, I'll look into the matter myself and keep you updated, when I have the time that is. I imagine I'll be busy soon enough, running around being a janitor of sorts.

Tilting his head off to the sigh while his chin sat within the palm of his hand, he made a small sigh of his own. It was just another threat he have to look into. Only two days in and It seemed he already had enough to do once he was done at the capital. It was better than standing around doing nothing like the countless droves. Nonetheless, he hoped Lucia would take a likening to his help than the former. It was her game, her plans, he wouldn't get involved If she wished. He was only looking out for this half baked kingdom and it's people.

When she provided a less than satisfactory answer regarding his teasing, he found himself somewhat disappointed but in spite of that, he didn't find himself in shock or concern. He instead smirked with his eyebrow raised, his sarcastic tone making a few laughs.

Hehe, your no fun.

He teased jokingly before leaning back with a smile. The conversation had gone exactly as he had expected. He didn't think Lucia would pry or ask even If he had left the door open to it. It was still shocking though just how similar they were. It was like he was talking to a mirror of himself at times and he couldn't tell If that was to be a good or bad thing depending on the situation at hand. In any case, he basically felt the same way, and unless he a specific type of relationship with a individual, he would refrain from asking such personal questions, even If it did prove difficult at times due to his blunt like nature.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

Lucia nodded in thought, it wouldn't be problematic to include more people, instead it was a welcome offer to her who needed the help. Though when it came to risking people's lives and futures she was trying her best to be as careful as possible with choosing. "I'll keep you in mind when the time comes if you like. I can't say when it will begin exactly, they are after all dangerous entities that should be taken seriously. It would be best for the players to fix the city and making the surrounding portions of the city safe before we start doing these types of projects." She explained. She had to rebuild her own furniture and equipment after all, she couldn't imagine the current state of the player city and it's buildings and infrastructure. It was best to deal with that first before going on to helping her with her ambitions.

Of course, being told she was no fun, Lucia only chuckled back shaking her head. "Mah, If you say I'm no fun, I think it just depends on the circumstances. To the right people I suppose I can be very fun." Lucia implied with a mellow grin. That thought brought fond memories, Luna and Ezra, Vivian at some point had been as close as well. Her social weaknesses hadn't ever prevented her from being an aggressive hunter after all. "But, I've still a lot to clean up and do with the camp before I go out and see who's still around and playing. Or if there are any interesting newbies who might be fun. It'll be a while yet before I can get back into the rhythm of finding fun." She spoke, laughing at her own struggles.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

He was pleased to hear Lucia take up on his offer. Originally, his only purpose was to eliminate threats to Astorea, specifically one he see to personally, but with this? He was helping to bring change, to bring a tomorrow to individuals like Mortimer and Sylvanas even If It was only a stepping stone in a otherwise, long and arduous path. Hiding his crimson eyes from view, he smiled. If only his old self could see himself now, he wondered what he say or act? Scuff? To tell him he was a fool? Ignore him? Perhaps he would do all three but that didn't matter. That man no longer existed. He felt more like himself than he had in ages and that was a blessing. He flashes his eyes open while he retained his smile.

I'd like that. It wouldn't be as If I'd only be fighting for Astorea's safety but for a tomorrow for Mortimer and Sylvanas. If that isn't a noble endeavor, I don't know what is.

Than his expression suddenly turned more serious as he tilted his head upwards slightly. His left index and middle fingers began caressing the tip of his depilated, smooth like chin.

That's right, I had forgotten just how much the city had deteriorated since it's conquest seven or eight years ago. Hopefully Astor got the ball rolling since that time or else we'll be in a heap of trouble, even with veterans like ourselves defending it. Unfortunately, there on their own. I'm no smith like I was in my early days. My talents are best suited elsewhere. I'll let the younglings handle that. I've never particularly understood why but new players are usually overly enthusiastic about joining or doing anything that sounds important. God forbid they could think for themselves for longer than five seconds.

He than returned his gaze back on Lucia with the same smile from before.

But your right, It's best to make preparations first before we start anything like a potentially long, military campaign. In the mean time, I might look into forging myself a suit of Sengoku era, namban-do gusoku armor. While this Yukata has it's nostalgic charm, It no longer represents the individual who I am today.

When Lucia later chuckled at his teasing, he waved her away with one of his free hands with a grin, but that grin instantly than turned more laid back than mischievous.

I was only teasing....but I could say the same about myself, especially when liquor involved.....yeah, don't ask.

He chuckled hard after that. There was too many memories for him to list. Whenever liquor was involved with him, things always turned chaotic for reasons unknown to him. Regardless, he didn't regret them, well mostly. Drunk sex with a demon at the helm was always something he tried avoiding If he could. When the two of them calmed down a bit, Lucia reminded him there was still things she needed to tend to, such as the clean up of her camp before she could do anything else. He raised a brow.

I guess I should leave you to it than. I've already wasted enough of your time as It is, and I'm sure the three of you are eager to get back in the flow of things. That said, I do hold your sentiments. Hopefully we'll encounter more serious & mature players than before. Dunno about you but I have knack for running into the complete opposite.

Past the last portion of his comment, just how long had he been here? Twenty minutes? A hour? Thanks to the gripping like discussions he had with her, he was having real difficulties in what he had done earlier. As charming as this reunion was, he was beginning to ponder It was coming to a end, for the both of them had things to do and places to go. He was thankful for how the conversation had went but that only wondered what his next conversation with her would look like. Hopefully liquor wouldn't be involved...

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

Lucia nodded along, content that Seto seemed to agree with her on the importance of undead futures. It was good that other people could see eye to eye with her passion, she'd been working towards the goal for so long it was always more rewarding when people felt it was a good goal. The talk about the state of the city though made her sigh, even shaking her head as if worried Seto didn't understand the gravity of things. "It's worse then that Seto, it's been 4 years for us. 4 years, but furniture doesn't wither and rot in 4 years, trees don't grow in that time and roads don't get overgrown either. Somehow, either the game's gone on longer without us, or something more is going on." She explained glancing back to the trees her skeletons had been working on cutting and carving. Naturally she had to replace what was lost, but still, it was a shock to see just how bad things had gotten.

When he mentioned liquor though, Lucia shook her head, she certainly wouldn't. After all they were Seto's secrets and history after all, even if he hadn't mentioned she wouldn't have pried. "Mah, don't worry, I'm not the type to delve into those things after all. Though I've been guilty of drinking with some nice girls as well, My experiences probably aren't much like your's." She couldn't help a charming laugh. She herself had certainly made strong aggressive advances on ladies in the past, she wouldn't judge someone else for their potentially more bizarre or awkward sides.

At Seto's words, Lucia could only tilt her head back in thought, wondering about the type she usually came across. "Mm, in my experience I find the ones who are immature and inexperienced, raising them up to be capable has always been a fun hobby though. It was like that before with those in my circle, it'll likely be like that again. Most people will only take this world more seriously after their first death after all." Lucia spoke with a shrug and weary sigh. Who's to say what she would find now, hopefully the girls in her life would return though, as fun as they were she certainly missed their spirit at least. Though when he mentioned taking his leave, Lucia nodded. "Would you like me to send you back? If you have a moment I can send you by boat." Lucia offered, a peculiar offer consider they were in the middle of the woods, but if he wanted to return back to his duchy quickly through the overgrowth and wooded paths it might be easier.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

By the sound of her voice and the sigh she made beforehand, It seemed he had unintentionally gave Lucia the wrong impression. This was especially present when he could see the fear in her eyes, the anxiety in her voice. He may have overstepped his bounds again but It wasn't like he wasn't concerned himself, he just tried his best to ignore it for the time being since It was something outside his control. Despite whatever sympathies he had for his friend, he found himself unable to lend her a crying shoulder so to say. Still, he had at least attempted a to make a considerate smile as he rolled his shoulders.

It's probably what we fear most Lucia, a combination of the two, but without looking into It further, it's basically a moot point to discuss. If you want a confirmation of the former however, you should probably seek out one of many whom were unable to return to the other world once they died here a number of times. Of course, I don't know the specific's but just because you get multiple lives here, that doesn't mean you should waste them carelessly. Some players just never learn.

Sighing himself, he tilted his head to his side while he kept Lucia in view, via the edges of his eyes.

Anyway, from what I was told, there's quite a few of them so It shouldn't be too hard to find one, though some part of me fears what they might tell you.

Finding himself at the brunt of her charming laugh after his mention of liquor, he found himself unable to resist looking away. He made a faint smile of slight unease.

You know.....the thing is.....I didn't even try and yet, I still find myself in situations like that, even though I ain't really sexual. If anything, I'm more of a prude compared to the droves of teenagers were often stuck here with.

Immediately afterwards, he sighed for a second before going silent for a minute or two. With his head sitting on the top of his fist, he turned his eye's attention to the ceiling of the tent. The memories of being possessed came flashing back to him, but than again, they were difficult to forget, given their nature. Maybe he just chose to bury them within the confines of his mind? How does someone even forget about the rape? The murder? the carnage? Things normal humans never grew accustomed to. At least being a solider in his earlier life helped prepare him for the far darker realities of humankind. Sighing again, he returned his gaze upon her with a faint smile.

Though I'll freely admit the demon thoroughly enjoyed it.

He continued to smile though It was clear he turned slightly pale. While he was relieved, happy even the demon no longer existed to torture him, he couldn't say the same for the actions It had taken. It had done more damage than he most likely, ever be able to repair. Nobody ever said the right path was easy. His mood changed completely however when she made mention that training the foolhardy and the immature often made the best players. Although nodding at her tired sigh, he couldn't help but raise a brow to interject.

True, I'll give you that, having forced myself to take on students like that in the real world. Their the ones who push themselves the hardest but there also the ones who get distracted the most, not to mention the ones that get overly emotional. Very much a double sword If you ask me.

He didn't have much experience taking on apprentices in this world but in the other? What he said rang truth. Almost all the students he took on whom were immature, overly energetic etc, tended to be his best students yet at the same time, they were often the ones to get themselves killed or faced burnout, which often resulted in them leaving. As a result, few of that archetype ever made it to the professional world. Regardless, he was blessed to have the few that managed, thought sometimes he wished they weren't women. Perhaps he ought to ban romance while attending the academy or on it's team? Questions for later.

When he remembered the last segment of her statement however, his eyes rolled at the mere mention. He absolutely loathed being forced to remember his first death. It made him angry but not at Lucia. It wasn't as If It was her fault and even If It had, he still wouldn't hold it against her. It just angered how artificially difficulty this world could be. He sometimes felt as If this world revolved around game "plot" too much, which often forced players to just flat out die for no good reason. That's what made him angry.

Uggghh, don't remind me, I still hear the laughing, mad king in my sleep. I don't mean to rant but it's ridiculous really, I was amongst the most skilled player in direct combat at that time and I wasn't even given a proper fight....Instead I was cut down by wraths that were invulnerable to all forms of combat, even magic. Is it too much to ask for a warrior's death? Ughhh.

Clenching his hand, now into a fist, a uneasy groan escaped him, show just how clearly he was frustrated on the matter. After taking a few moments to breath in and breath out slowly, he returned to normal, just as Lucia made him a offer. His eyes widen in combination of shock and surprise before a heart felt smile came over him.

That's quite generous of you, Lucia, thank you. I hadn't planned on returning right this moment but to refuse such a offer would be a insult to the people who had put their faith in me....and It's not like I can rest easy either, not until I know the fallen have been properly buried and are at peace. I just hope there won't be any restless spirits wandering about. I can't even begin to fathom being bound to a place where you died horribly for all eternity.

He leaned back into his chair, still happy, thought somewhat disturbed by the last portion of his comment. If there really was restless, potentially angry spirits in his old domain, he didn't want to give it much thought, or the possibility he might to "destroy" them If he couldn't put them to rest. In a way, it shook him to his core but this was his responsibility as their late ruler. He couldn't be a coward and back out now just because the thought horrified him.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

Lucia nodded along, concerned about the nature of the game's shut down, though there was nothing they could do about it it was a mystery worth solving. At the end of the day only one sudden jump happened, but who was to say when the next would be, for how long and how many might come after? It was best to learn what they could now while they had the leisure to. "I want to make sure this doesn't happen again if it's preventable, we have to at least make sure we can gauge how much might be destroyed next time so we can come back with a feasible plan." She exhaled her concerns. Without being able to really understand what had happened, they might be at risk of it happening again until their city and her camp was just a dust pile.

Though she was glad to think that there were some diamonds in the rough, she was in the midst of looking for them but her luck was unfortunately not good. While her summons ran across quite a few open minded individuals, while she did manage to meet some through them, she still had to weigh their ability and see if they were capable of combat. "Well, hopefully we'll have some that can be capable leaders or assets that will be able to help. For now, I'm sat waiting to find them, waiting for them to develop I suppose." She nodded along as if it couldn't be helped.

When talk of liquor came back though, Lucia craned her neck nodding along. She wouldn't pry into someone's belief or preferences, though she was certainly a far cry from the man himself. Lucia couldn't help a sheepish laugh knowing she was very much like those thirsty teenagers just because of how bland her reality had always been. "Ah, well, I suppose the important part is time and place. There's no problem with pleasant encounters, I'm of the type to encourage people to revel in vice and virtue after all, the importance is achieving balance if you indulge too much." Lucia tried to assure. Regardless of what type of person Seto was, provided he endeavored to balance himself Lucia thought he'd be fine.

Hearing about his first death though, Lucia nodded along in understanding, it sounded rough clearly, a far cry to her first death. "For me, I reached down to grab a Necronomicon floating in black fluid, I managed to retrieve it and become a necromancer, but it melted me. Unsettling at first, but it led to my first meeting with Synra on the gondola to the other side, so I can't complain too much." She spoke shaking her head thinking she'd done well to maintain some measure of level headedness in regards to her own death. The only problem however was how she now reacted to every event or world boss encounter with paranoia and anxiety.

If Seto wanted a ride back though, Lucia would nod, reaching back to rustle her hair slightly until the rings at the back of her armor like decoration began to come off one at a time. The halo like rings normally laid flat on her back, but with a gesture they slid right off and began to move, like a chaotic unbalanced gyroscope, swiveling and rotating above her palm as if calculating until they finally settled as a chaotic collection of rings forming almost a steel cage shaped like a sphere. "It's no worry, it would be more hazardous to walk all the way to your territory through the woods at this rate-- Morgana, Are you awake?" She asked, an image appeared at the center, a dark desolate area, rocks with floating greenery swaying gently, an occasional fish or eel swimming by until there was finally movement. Gradually a gilded pirate slowly trudged through the barnacle covered rocks. "Aye, Miss. It's been all quiet-like for too long." The pirate spoke despite the water surrounding it.

Seeing her subordinate awake, she lowered her hand from the rings causing them to fly into position, generating dark and white swirling energy within until each was connected resulting in a bright flash. It was a flash that brought the drowned Pirate from it's home, a long coat not unlike Mortimer's though heavily worn and shot through. Hundreds of bracelets and necklaces decorating arms and neck, a pirate hat resting atop a skull with bright red flames pouring out of it like long strands of twisting and turning hair licking at the back and shoulders of the coat. What was left of the skin on it's face contorted into a displeased expression as it swept salt water from it's body. "Bah, guess there'll be no smoking drenched as I am." They spoke, a hoarse gravely voice despite having a feminine figure. Lacking in eyes, instead there were blue colored gems in the eye sockets that turned from Lucia to Seto. "This be the one I'll be ferrying then?"

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

He understood her concern but what could they really do about it? It was something so far out of their control, that without aid from one of the Divines, they couldn't possibly hope to find an answer, let alone be able to do anything meaningful. As for the other world? That was a entirely different matter, but one that brought it's own problems, such as the location of the servers, those whom developed it, locating all copies of the world's code, the financial resources required to mount such a search. Now that he thought about it though, between people easily being able to lose their lives from being in here to it's potential for other programs and systems, he thought the military would have located the servers, eliminate, detain or recruit the developers, destroyed the world's code and began using it for their own notorious purposes. He really wouldn't put it past them considering the things he had to do while under orders. In the end however, he could only summarize that whomever had developed this world, they must have had deep pockets and connections, though he wouldn't be surprised if one of the megacorporations was behind this, given their near infinite amount of resources, influence and manpower. For what reason though? He couldn't guess. Nonetheless, he nodded as he responded in kind.

Perhaps If your Diviness ever grants you a favor, perhaps she could shed some light on the matter.

If anyone could know something about the functionality or the make up of it's world, It would have to be Divine. If not? From a in world perspective, It would than be pointless but that wasn't for him to find out, but Lucia's. Whether she do It or not was something else entirely, and If she didn't, out of fear of what she might learn, he wouldn't blame her. Sometimes It was better not to learn the truth, no matter how much you wished for it.

He found himself a little relieved at her agreeing with him. While he didn't like the ugly truth, It was the reality they found themselves in and he whole heartedly doubt It would change any time soon. Along with a nod a rub to his forehead with his middle finger, a face of concern over took him.

Agreed, though as you know, natural born leaders are hard to come by, and for those who aren't? They only tend to be molded into said leaders after they experienced dark realities of this world and the other. Of course, having the right mindsight and being taught by another, one whom is older, more experienced, goes a long way.

From his own experiences, what he said was true but at the same time, he didn't know he was ready to be some mentor, despite the fact he was already a instructor in the other world. Regardless, he was cautiously optimistic others would show up like they were in the past. They were immature, reckless even but the two of them had the potential to grow into what they were now. Not everyone was born like that but he could certainly hope for it, even If It most likely wouldn't come true.

With his eyes about to pop out of their sockets, he found himself surprised and horrified at the same time upon learning of Lucia's very first death. He found himself baffled. He couldn't even imagine that and he had been shoot at, thrown, impaled, bones and organs crushed but melted? His mind could not comprehend that. As a response, he found himself looking at her with a pair of gloomy eyes.

That.....sounds incredibly painful and unpleasant. I was just stabbed in the back....than...well, I guess everyone here knows how that feels.

The feeling of death, to feel your life force drain away, to be surrounded in complete darkness, to being forced to deal with the despairing cold, It was a feeling he never wanted to experience it again. Maybe he was weak but he could not understand how players tolerate dying more than once. Why would you want to feel that again? Do you have zero care for your own life? Those were two questions he did not want an answer to, despite being bold enough to ask.

Watching her nod, his eyes followed her hands as they reached for something that was behind her raven black bangs. What really caught his attention however was the sudden appearance of her halo shaped rings that immediately took to the sky, hovering violently just above the palm of her hand before they finally merged together in some crude like fashion. When she tried to assure him If he was trouble on her part, he simply nodded in silence, not knowing what to say, or rather, there was nothing left to say. She wasn't wrong. The capital was a few days out from here but the mountainous south that was his old domain? That would certainly be a hike no matter what, even with his new found abilities. Once Lucia's merged her rings came together to form a sphere of sorts, he found his eyes glued to the magical screen that appeared just above it, displaying a desolate image, depicting a watery grave. At Lucia's command however, within just a few moments, a highly ornate pirate looking Undead suddenly appeared on the screen after slowly plowing itself out of it's grave. Despite her subordinate acknowledging her Mistress, he found his eyes wandering yet again, this time on the multi colored, twirling energies above them before they merged together, causing a bright flash. Caught off guard, he inadvertently closed his eyes as he looked away, his left arm covering his already shut eyes as to shield them from harm. When he finally turned to face Lucia after deeming It was safe, he found himself before the very same gilded pirate he had only seen moments ago, only now could he see It more clearly, and more lively. What was most notable about Morgana was her permanently enflamed skull and the two sapphire gems that functioned as her eyes? He found himself glancing at the flames and the two jewels before he swiftly diverted his attention back on Lucia than back on Morgana as she asked him If he was the one she be transporting. At her comment, he found himself making a slight bow in his chair before faintly smiling towards the Undead pirate.

Yes and thank you for your assistance Morgana. I appreciate It more than you know. Allow me to repay you the next time I see you. It is the least I can do for you after all.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

Lucia exhaled a helpless sigh, shrugging and shaking her head. There was little she could do, pray as she might for Synra's help, the goddess might not even understand the struggles of a player who couldn't log in. "For all we know the divines are removed from such game-like systems. As far as they're aware we could've just disappeared for years on end with no understanding of our own world or the computer systems at work." Lucia explained the problem with trying to involve Synra in player FAQs, if NPCs like Mortimer and Sylvanas could only rationalize their reality through theories unable to hear about game details, she worried the gods would be similarly set up.

Nodding along, Lucia exhaled a disappointed breath at the truth in the man's words again. "Mm, it's true. Usually most don't come to understand our point of view until after the first death at least before they're willing to listen and take things more seriously. I'm lucky enough to have some friends from reality at hand, but in truth even some of them don't really understand the depths of things... It's a waiting game I hate." She spoke almost tilting her head back as if the sky weren't wide enough to contain her anxiety on the subject. There were still events like world bosses and dangerous events they would have to participate in. It made her rub her temples in discomfort at the mere thought.

Lucia nodded along, at the time it was certainly painful, for her though, there was a stronger pain back in those days. She held the book, gritting her teeth even while melting, refusing to give up the book even as she disappeared; She would not be relegated to 'average' in this world, that she refused. Even if she had to be melted hundreds of times she would have taken the book all the same. "It was painful at the time, still, I can't help look back on it fondly. Were it not for those who need me in reality, I wouldn't mind doing so over and over if it was necessary." She spoke, a self-mocking smile on her face, horrified Seto might be, but Lucia would never claim to be sane, Harlow and Luna had both made that clear knowing who she was in reality, neither considered her sane.

Though when Seto seemed ready to go, Lucia nodded along beckoning towards the pirate girl. Morgana only trudged forward, gait somewhat awkward from her semi-incomplete state. Even so though she remained one of Lucia's best as far as transportation. "Ah, don't mind so much. You wanna thank me, I take smokes or booze." The drowned pirate chuckled, voice still hoarse and burnt as it approached Seto. "If we're gonna be going, best be getting a move on. Don't like bein in the open air like this-- Tastes bland." The Gilded pirate seemed to have nothing but complaints. Though as she approached the ground would crack. One might suspect zombie arms to reach up, but in Morgana's case it was planks of wood dotted with flesh, muscles and fats fusing them together as opposed to nails, the loud creaking of a heavy ship could be heard reverberating but what came together was merely a smaller whaling vessel instead that came together beneath Morgana hoisting her up. Once on deck, she seemed a lot more animated and alive, as if more whole with a ship beneath her. "Gonna 'afta point me in the right direction though. I don't be knowing the way of things inland." She spoke up, reaching up to a lantern hung at the front, turning it on with a twist of a knob as if to say the ship was in service. The flesh and fats retreating between the boards slowly until it was indistinguishable from a normal ship though it seemed to have some gore-y red stains here and there.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

Hearing most likely, a undeniable truth, he simply nodded along. It was only wishful thinking on his part but If even the Divines themselves didn't know anything, who or what would? This world didn't have Administrators or GM's from other vrmmorpg's he played. In fact, there was no higher power outside the world's game like mechanic's to his knowledge. It was a unnatural setup, giving whomever logged in the eerie feeling this world was the same as the other, thought that didn't stop people exploiting It or getting themselves killed. In the end, he stood by his original statement.

Although he wouldn't usher in a word, he found himself joining in on her disappointment. It was just another undebatable truth the two knew too well but they wished It wasn't so. He just didn't understand why most players couldn't or wouldn't take this world seriously until they usually found themselves in a traumatic situation, He wasn't sure however If Lucia was blessed to know people from the other world that came here. He wasn't sure however If Lucia was blessed or not to have friends or companions in the other world that would them here. If he was in her shoes, he wouldn't know how to feel about. Losing somebody close is always difficult but losing such a individual here over stupidity? Because you were reckless or took things for granted? He wouldn't know how to feel about it, given his rather blunt personality and realist outlook on life. He was at least thankful to some extent his wife had never returned here. She was even more suicidal brave than even he was, considering her over protective ways.

Even though she was ok with what happened, having cited It was well worth the pain, and while he could understand to a extent, he still found himself flinching over the whole ideal. He was trying really hard to not to imagine himself in a similar situation but It was clear as day he was failing by epic proportions. It was just a pain he didn't understand nor did he want to experience If he could help it. It would take more than a solid minute before he come to his senses but once It did, his anxiety was replaced with a much more laid back smile and tone, that was followed up by a similar laugh.

If I had it my way, I wouldn't have but atlas, Astor and the Kingdom needed my strength. Even my old self was honorbound by his obligations....Well, that and he wasn't one for fearing away from battle.

He rose his hands and shrugged. If he could, he certainly would have done something different to spare him from his first death but that wasn't how things turned out. Even now, he wasn't sure what or where he could have gone to make a difference or possibly not die but he most likely never know. That said, he was curious on what had happened to her copy of the Necronomicon but than figured he would ask her later, whenever that would come.

He initially took note of Morgana incomplete state, curious as to why Lucia hadn't finished her but when he heard the pirate queen chuckling, saying he only needed to repay him via cigarettes and alcohol, he found chuckling with a smile.

That can be arranged.

Stopping himself from going any further, he gave Morgana a nod when he came face with her rough voice. She was right, It was best to get a move on and he had spent more than enough time with Lucia for now. Just as he had things to do, so did she. After Morgana had walked outside the tent to a loud series of noises erupting from the ground, he pulled himself up from his chair and followed after, only to stop momentarily at the tent's doorway. Turning his head over his shoulder to Lucia with a faint smile, he spoke in a pressing manner.

Message me....when you need me.

With a hand gesture from his left hand, he departed the tent, disappearing from her view once the tent's split doorway's flap closed behind him. Once he was outside, he found himself standing before a monstrosity of a ship. A combination between something man made and flesh, It instantly reminded him of a demonic possessed vessel from other universes he had read about but despite it's grotesque like form, It didn't let him bother him. Rather, he found himself momentarily tilting his head in curiosity before remembering Morgana was waiting for him above aboard. Not wanting to waste anymore time or earn the wrath of a certain pirate queen, he quickly found himself boarding the vessel, only to be met with a much more lively Morgana, whom than asked for directions. That rung a good question initially but as his mind began to run it's magic, he quickly remembered Astorea only had one significant mountain range, and that was to the south. Raising his eyebrows and placing the palms of his hands on his hips, his eyes met Morgana's sapphires.

Are you by chance, aware of Astorea's enormous mountain range to the south east? That's where my domain once belonged. It's also directly south of the old capital that was destroyed four years ago. Don't worry about getting me to a pinpoint location, I'm fine with us simply reaching the outskirts.

Given it had been four years since Dawngrave's destruction, even with his prior knowledge of the area, he doubt he able to find the ruins easily. It wasn't as If the old kingdom hadn't attempted to settle the location in the past either. There was numerous ruins that littered the area that he never had the chance to remove and now that four years had passed, any roads he or the settlers had laid down would be nowhere to be found. This was going to be a fun one indeed, especially on his own.

@Lucia Mierz

 

[Lucia Mierz]

When Seto got up, Lucia got up as well, walking to the doorway of the camp, giving him a wave when he stepped on board the ship. Though seeing how awkward he was when he got on she flashed a bitter smile. "Morgana, go easy on him, he's not a speed demon." Lucia tried to caution the drowned pirate with a weary laugh. Not so much that she doubted Seto's ability, but she knew Morgana's tendencies. The Necrofex wasn't someone that could be trusted at all times, certainly the most dubious of Lucia's summons.

The gilded Pirate though only shrugged with a wheezing laugh. As if it wasn't her concern, the Undead pirate gave a stomp as the boat began to slowly turn. Not disturbing the soil beneath them as it almost seemed to half sink like a ghost into the earth as it turned and rocked as if carried by the calm sea. "Aye, I know the place... Generally." The wheezing laughter continued as the boat began to advance, slowly at first as it slipped between the trees. Once it was out of sight of the camp though, Morgana would dust her wet coat off before pulling out a thick cigar, taking the time to patiently cut it as the ship began picking up speed.

"Won't be long though, we'll get there all peaceful-like don't you worry... Been a long time since I could taste the wind." The woman spoke brushing back her burning hair with her cigar hand causing it to ignite before bringing it to the side of her face that still had lips. The first drag coming out of the open side of her cheek and a few holes in her chest. The ride was steady but still picking up speed as trees began to blur by. Morgana's wheezing laughter as she'd ferry Seto to his territory as fast as the ghost ship could move.

@Seto Kurama

 

[Seto Kurama]

The Pantone Demon

In spite of the disturbing laughter, he found himself unfazed, even as the small whaling boat began making it's way through the forest, swerving, veering and even leaping to avoid the many tree's in their way. For anyone else perhaps, one may be wary or even intimidated but him? It was just another day. He had seen far stranger things in this world, and It wasn't like he wasn't accustomed to the more gruesome aspects of dark magic, having once been a practitioner himself. That said, the further they pulled away from the camp, the more he found himself increasingly annoyed by Morgana's wheezing. While a part of him wanted to say something, he kept silent, reminding himself that Lucia was doing him a favor. Regardless how he felt, he wasn't to jeopardize his chance to return to his old land and do what must be done, even If it came at the cost of his sanity to some extent. He live, even If he didn't like it. Things turned up however, at least for his sanity when Morgana took a moment away from her wheezing to smoke one of her cigars. He made a nod in her direction with one of his eyebrow's raised while his arms sat folded across his chest.

Well If that's the case, don't make yourself suffer on my end. The feeling pretty mutual.

Given how he had a love of speed, It was quite literally impossible for the man to disagree, especially after It had been four years, four years of sitting around and doing much of the same. While he couldn't say he was hurting like Lucia, that didn't mean he himself wasn't hurting. With both of his outlets having been taken away, with one being shut down, and the other being closed off by his wife, It was something of an addiction he couldn't relieve himself of. Nevertheless, things were different now, and now that he had his freedom, he couldn't wait to experience the very same thing Morgana wanted. To feel the wind blow through his hair, to feel the adrenaline pump through his veins, It was something he couldn't get anywhere else and It was something he wouldn't easily give up.

Returning to reality however, If the both came to a consensus, he knew things could get ugly real soon and while he could take it, he didn't feel like being thrown from a blazingly fast boat If he could help it. To counteract that predicament, he quickly focused a small reserve of his own energy into the archways of his feet, trigging a very faint but noticeable white aura to take shape around his leather boots. With this, and the combination of his near super human reflexes, Morgana could basically go as fast as she wanted within reason and have it not affect him. He wasn't a master of dynamism for nothing now. With no limitations holding them back though, he suspected It wouldn't be long before they arrive at the outskirts of his own land.

@Lucia Mierz