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via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Tyramon wrote:

The Priest shook his head, saying that Savareon would not abandon any of his people. Even in his slumber, he still helped his people through the gifts he had provided.

Nelly nodded.
"Well...run along."

******

The Aerlanicans respect that, but stated that all the gods they've ever worshiped "shafted" them when they needed them most.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:Nelly nodded.
"Well...run along."

******

The Aerlanicans respect that, but stated that all the gods they've ever worshiped "shafted" them when they needed them most.

Vara smiled and nodded.
"Yes, Mistress. Have a good day."

** ** **

Vara went to find the painting class.

******

The Priest is clearly disappointed, but he nods. He says that they will be welcome if they ever change their minds.

via Cape of Good Hope

Monsone

Aerlanica wrote:-snip-

Kemptburge, Shingukai

Dr. Mertegašte looked at Alena and then glanced back at Spencer with a firm stare. His eyes seemed caring, yet stern in a paternal manner. After a moment of glancing at Spencer, he returned his gaze to Alena

"You are in no shape to provide any medical assistance to this patient. Right now you are on the very border of what is defined as a survivable state. Go rest, relax, eat something, sleep, and regain your strength before you even consider performing any treatment. The state you are in currently would imperil both the patient and yourself if you were to try and treat them." The doctor firmly said, not an ounce of compromise present in his voice.

"And you lack a basic understanding of medicine." He told Spencer. "Even once your body is perfectly healed and back to the state it was prior to your injuries, you will not have finished recovering. Laying in bed for as long as you have will have affected your coordination and your motor skills on all levels. You will need physical therapy for at least a few weeks before you can confidently claim to truly be back from the dead. Unless being back from the dead means acting like a centenarian and using a walker to get around at a pathetic pace."

"Healing isn't merely physical, it is also deeply psychological. I don't wish to be the bearer of bad tidings, but at the current pace, you can expect to be here for two to three weeks depending on how you progress. But don't think this will be three weeks of idle action, that phase is over. You will at best be in this bed semi-contiguously for the next five to seven days. After that, you will make progress." Dr. Mertegašte emphasized.

Seversvik, Monsone

Geiger returned to his office after lunch to find the contact information for the crew of the FSC Intrepid scrawled on a piece of paper left on his ink blotter. After glancing at it for a moment, he put the contact information to the side and awoke his beast of a desktop computer from its lunchtime slumber. He opened a new document and imprinted the template used for letters from the office of the president. Once he had done so, he began to tap away at his keyboard.

--------------------------------------

"I'm back, as promised," Ta'lhqejk told Andrea, the latter of whom was now sitting in a cafe that overlooked the Seversvik River with Ta'lhqejk having just arrived following a change of attire. Having replaced the black suit with a more appropriate blue suit and a black blouse, Ta'lhqejk seemed a bit overdressed for the cafe, and that was further accentuated by their black sunglasses which obscured their eyes.

"I guess the summer heat got to you too." Remarked Andrea after taking a sip of iced coffee laced with copious amounts of sugar and cream.

"No, not really. It just seemed odd to wear something so gloomy." Replied Ta'lhqejk after rolling their eyes behind their sunglasses. "Blending in was also a factor, but clearly I made the mistake of wearing formal clothes while handing out with a young adult. Jeans and a t-shirt might have been a better move."

"So are you going to tell me why you singled me out? Am I ever going to get that explanation or am I going to have to ask somebody in the government next time they summon me to pilot the giant robot they're being so precious with?" Andrea asked while lowering her sunglasses to reveal the very tops of her eyes to Ta'lhqejk.

"Sure, why not. I may as well give you the whole story." Ta'lhqejk said nonchalantly while gesturing for a waiter to come over.

"Yes?" They asked Ta'lhqejk while pulling out a notepad.

"I'd like a G&T, but make it extra citrusy. I don't care if it's lime or lemon that you put in there, just make sure to put lots in. And extra mint as well." Ta'lhqejk ordered.

"Are you eighteen?" Asked the waiter in a timid manner.

"Do you want to see my ID?" Asked Ta'lhqejk coldly while presenting what ostensibly looked like an ID.

"Sorry for the intrusion. I'll be right on it." Replied the waiter after getting a quick glance of whatever Ta'lhqejk had shown them.

"What was that?" Andrea asked.

"One story at a time. Now, let's start with why I singled you out. Sounds fair?" Replied Ta'lhqejk.

"It does." Responded Andrea as Ta'lhqejk let out a sigh.

"You weren't born, I can't put it in nicer terms. Instead, you were created. You weren't, however, created in a laboratory. Truthfully, you were created by Erich to serve as a pilot for that robot. He is the one who made my body, and he is also the one who made your soul." They explained as Andrea intently listened. "When you were created, a mistake occurred. Your completely human soul was corrupted by Erich in a bout of rage, which resulted in his powers being imbued into your soul. He accidentally gave you a mirror of his powers, turning you into something not quite human, and not quite Erich. That means that you don't need that robot to fight. Your true power is unleashable, but only by Erich. He knows that, and will vehemently refuse to teach you the skills you need to truly mimic him in his power. In his place, I can begin to train you so when you do eventually wind up having a similar conversation with him, it will be next to impossible for him to refuse."

"Your G&T, with extra lime and mint." Said the waiter as they brought Ta'lhqejk their drink.

"Excelent, thank you." They replied with a smile as Andrea simply stared at Ta'lhqejk in shock,
"Would you like the bill?" Asked the waiter.

"I'll pick it up when I leave." Ta'lhqejk addressed the waiter as he left.

"I-I..." Andrea began to say.

"You're not quite ready to speak to him about this directly. It would be foolish for you to do so. Finish your drink up, I've got a surprise to show you." Ta'lhqejk told Andrea while pacing a hand on her shoulder.

"Okay." Andrea silently replied.

FSC Intepid

An email would come through from an email address reading: OfficeOfThePresident@gdrm.gov. Attached to it was a letter from the President of Monsone, Frederick Geiger, with the official letterhead from his office and electronic signature included.

To Captain Wallace and Commodore Keith of the FSC Intrepid,

I commend your brave actions in defiance of authority which would have jeopardized your morals and the sanctity of laws. Your actions saved the lives of tens of thousands of innocent civilians and prevented damages that would have been in the quadrillions of Federalisk. Singlehandedly your actions have proven more critical and beneficial than you could possibly ever imagine. Through them, you've brought down the greatest threats of Aerlanican democracy and discharged your service honorably.

Your crew exemplified the best aspects of society, and I mourn those who died with a heavy heart. Through their actions and the actions of your staff, it is very likely that the final victory over the Primaeri and their allies has been accelerated. Perhaps this all sounds like prophetic bluster in a time of great pain and mourning. I understand the sentiment entirely and wholeheartedly. Please extend my thanks and praises to the entire crew and find enclosed a reward for every crew member under your command. It is a token my gratitude.

In debt to your actions,

Federick Geiger
President of Monsone

Enclosed was an electronic check for one hundred million Federalisk with no expiration date.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Monsone wrote:-snip-

Alena, crestfallen that she was currently of no benefit to Spencer's healing, however ever the realist, gave a nod.
"I understand...I am sorry I can be of no more use to you, but...I guess i'll be more useful alive in the longterm then overexerting myself in the short term."

She wiped her eyes and wandered out of the room, down the hall, they could hear her asking for directions to the nearest cafeteria.

Spencer himself sighed and laid back in the bed, obviously frustrated however he couldn't exactly sigh for a prolonged period due to his current shortness of breath. He looked out the window and grimaced.

"He's still out there...the man...who...well...you know...he's still out there..."

He grew silent.
"If he found me, then he found Witta and if he's found Witta he's most likely searching for Corali...I need to find them...I need to..."

He laid back in his bed and swallowed.
"Is there anyway we can expedite the process? permanent damage be damned."

The doctor stared back at Spencer, unbelieving of what he had just heard.

"Have you not listened to me? or anything I have said?" Dr. Mertegašte asked in disbelief.

Spencer paused, then looked to the side, averting his gaze shamefully.

"Spencer, you have at best a laymans knowlegde of how to treat you; we will not be doing a quick job, we will be doing a good job, and to do a good job we need time. If we rush this, you'll never be able to help them...we will go at a pace I see is safe for us to progress at."

******

Alena went to the cafeteria, ordered some food, and sat down, silently eating.

******

To Captain Wallace and Commodore Keith of the FSC Intrepid,

I commend your brave actions in defiance of authority which would have jeopardized your morals and the sanctity of laws. Your actions saved the lives of tens of thousands of innocent civilians and prevented damages that would have been in the quadrillions of Federalisk. Singlehandedly your actions have proven more critical and beneficial than you could possibly ever imagine. Through them, you've brought down the greatest threats of Aerlanican democracy and discharged your service honorably.

Your crew exemplified the best aspects of society, and I mourn those who died with a heavy heart. Through their actions and the actions of your staff, it is very likely that the final victory over the Primaeri and their allies has been accelerated. Perhaps this all sounds like prophetic bluster in a time of great pain and mourning. I understand the sentiment entirely and wholeheartedly. Please extend my thanks and praises to the entire crew and find enclosed a reward for every crew member under your command. It is a token my gratitude.

In debt to your actions,

Federick Geiger
President of Monsone

Dear Mr President.

Thank you for your kind words, however I was simply doing my duty to Constitution and Country as any good Aerlanican would. As you know, we've a bit of a history in showing would-be authoritarian despots the "what for" as many of my crew would say, but still we wouldn't have survived if it wasnt for the Roxium's Cicada agents who, frankly, had impeccable timing on their part. Likewise, your positive language isn't at all unwelcome, Mr President, we all need a little pick me up after being shot in the back by what you thought were your friends. Don't worry too much, we'll give them a proper send off with full military honours, I'll make sure of it; they deserve that much.

Likewise, if it's not too much trouble, we'd like to use the kings fortune you've given us to be invested into weapons and armaments for the struggle; ever since the capture of the Federal Gold Reserve and the ensuing crash of the Federal Buck, it's been worth less than the plastic it's printed on. We'd like to help arm our troops, ever since our industrial bases have fallen into enemy hands, and help us get a head start on getting back into the fight. However, thank you very much for the gesture. It means a lot, Mr President, to know we're not alone in this one. Maybe we can meet up some time over a few beers after all this is said and done, maybe in the Royal Emperor's throne room in Fort Domination. But until then, I'm heading back to make sure the skies above Ka'zul stay clear, hopefully you don't need to worry about your skies.

Kind, and Respectful, Regards.

Edward Wallace, Captain of the FSC Intrepid.

******

Wherever Erich was, he sensed CEVA-00Mk1a's presence reach out to him.

"Hey...Um...Erich...I...I just wanted to say...thank you...and...um...sorry...for...well being a bit pedantic...and over dramatic...I...I'd...really like if all three of us could be friends...if thats ok with you of course."

Tyramon wrote:-snip-

Vara entered the common room; it was more or less a larger version of the room Nelly first took Vara into to give her a few pointers on changing her appearance in regards to her target. However, scattered around were a few poker tables, a pool table, a very large television (currently turned off) in front of several rows of couches and pillows, a quiet corner covered with books and a few lounges, and a corner where a baker's dozen of easels were currently set up, each with a Succubi in front of them, they were the only Succubi in the room. Standing in front of them was Ophelia, who turned over her shoulder to see Vara. Ophelia was wearing a large apron over denim overalls and a red tartan shirt, front buttoned slightly up, and sleeves rolled up. She was in the process of picking out several paints as she called to Vara.

"Oh...hey I...you joining in?" she asked.

Vara nodded, and Ophelia smiled widely.

"Great, I'll get you an easel and canvas...you much experience with painting?"

******

The Aerlanicans stand to the side and watch the proceedings.

******

As Witta hung there, the door opened.

"Hello, Witta." came the sadistic voice of Iblion. "How are you feeling."

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:Vara entered the common room; it was more or less a larger version of the room Nelly first took Vara into to give her a few pointers on changing her appearance in regards to her target. However, scattered around were a few poker tables, a pool table, a very large television (currently turned off) in front of several rows of couches and pillows, a quiet corner covered with books and a few lounges, and a corner where a baker's dozen of easels were currently set up, each with a Succubi in front of them, they were the only Succubi in the room. Standing in front of them was Ophelia, who turned over her shoulder to see Vara. Ophelia was wearing a large apron over denim overalls and a red tartan shirt, front buttoned slightly up, and sleeves rolled up. She was in the process of picking out several paints as she called to Vara.

"Oh...hey I...you joining in?" she asked.

Vara nodded, and Ophelia smiled widely.

"Great, I'll get you an easel and canvas...you much experience with painting?"

******

The Aerlanicans stand to the side and watch the proceedings.

******

As Witta hung there, the door opened.

"Hello, Witta." came the sadistic voice of Iblion. "How are you feeling."

"Um...no...none, actually."

******

A few heavily inured and very sick strangers on stretchers were brought in, and some Priests brought some holy water out. After some prayers, each person was given holy water. The water was applied to the injuries and given to the sick to drink.

******

Witta looked up at him, mouth ajar but silent.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Tyramon wrote:

Witta looked up at him, mouth ajar but silent.

"Well hey, we gotta start somewhere, don't we?"

She set up an easel for Vara, as well as getting her a few brushes, a water can, a satchel filled with different pains and a palette.

"Alright, are we ready?"

******

The Aerlanicans watched with muted interest.

******

Iblion tilted his head to the side and pursed his lips.
"Not even a greeting?" he asked.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:"Well hey, we gotta start somewhere, don't we?"

She set up an easel for Vara, as well as getting her a few brushes, a water can, a satchel filled with different pains and a palette.

"Alright, are we ready?"

******

The Aerlanicans watched with muted interest.

******

Iblion tilted his head to the side and pursed his lips.
"Not even a greeting?" he asked.

Vara nodded.
"Yeah, what am I supposed to do?"

******

After an hour, the wounds close up and the sick are sick no longer. They were brought in on stretchers, but they walked out.

******

Witta looked down, too weak to answer any other way.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Tyramon wrote:

Witta looked down, too weak to answer any other way.

"Don't worry, I'll walk everyone through this. Now, what pains you guys will want is Titanium White, Sap Green, Cadium Yellow..."

Ophelia listed off all of several colours and began to paint on the canvas, walking everyone through what to do, what brushes to use and how to apply the paint. She goes slow, and Vara sees that there is varying skills ranging across the gathered succubi, with some being very good, and others complete beginners as Vara can see. Inbetween instructions, she gave tips on brush care, and why she chose water to use as a brush cleaning agent.

Eventually, Ophelia's canvas moved from random splashes of colour into a pleasant forest meadow, whereupon she began to apply finer details.

******

Suffice to say, the Aerlanicans are impressed, they ask to see where this holy water comes from.

******

Iblion walked to her, and began to caress her exposed body, his hands moving wherever they pleased as he looked apathetically and dissapointedly to Witta.
"So defiant...you do realise I get what I want."

The chains released Witta, and she was left sprawled on the floor.
"If you were obedient, I would have brought Corali back and set her free, now my offer still stands but...with different paramaters."

He cast down the collar once more before Witta.
"Place on the collar, and I bring Corali back to life with some...caveats."

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:"Don't worry, I'll walk everyone through this. Now, what pains you guys will want is Titanium White, Sap Green, Cadium Yellow..."

Ophelia listed off all of several colours and began to paint on the canvas, walking everyone through what to do, what brushes to use and how to apply the paint. She goes slow, and Vara sees that there is varying skills ranging across the gathered succubi, with some being very good, and others complete beginners as Vara can see. Inbetween instructions, she gave tips on brush care, and why she chose water to use as a brush cleaning agent.

Eventually, Ophelia's canvas moved from random splashes of colour into a pleasant forest meadow, whereupon she began to apply finer details.

******

Suffice to say, the Aerlanicans are impressed, they ask to see where this holy water comes from.

******

Iblion walked to her, and began to caress her exposed body, his hands moving wherever they pleased as he looked apathetically and dissapointedly to Witta.
"So defiant...you do realise I get what I want."

The chains released Witta, and she was left sprawled on the floor.
"If you were obedient, I would have brought Corali back and set her free, now my offer still stands but...with different paramaters."

He cast down the collar once more before Witta.
"Place on the collar, and I bring Corali back to life with some...caveats."

Vara was fairly good at following directions, and she was able to imagine what she wanted to paint in her mind, but it translated poorly onto the canvas, especially with things like perspective. Her strokes were either uncomfortably stiff or uncontrolled and chaotic. Details tended to just make things worse.

******

The Priests explain that only Priests are allowed to see the device - another gift from Savareon - that is used to create the hold water. In addition, holy water is only administered to followers of the faith.

******

Witta looked up at Iblion. She tried to speak, but no sound came. She weakly cleared her throat, and an extremely hoarse voice came.
"What caveats? What proof do I have that you will not just continue to torture her?"

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Tyramon wrote:

Witta looked up at Iblion. She tried to speak, but no sound came. She weakly cleared her throat, and an extremely hoarse voice came.
"What caveats? What proof do I have that you will not just continue to torture her?"

Ophelia saw this, and instructed her to try and loosen up; let it flow and try using it as she would a pencil.

(Just want to say, I have no idea how to paint lol.)

******

The Aerlanicans sighed, but understood.

******

"I don't; you removed that chance of her not being tormented when you defied me the first time...now, everytime you refuse, i'll just make her torment worse and worse."

Iblion grasped the back of her neck.
"So...do you want me to torment her more? or will you finally accept?"

via Cape of Good Hope

Monsone

Aerlanica wrote:-snip-

Kemptburge, Shingukai

"You do not want permanent nerve damage. You do not want to have a limp or some other disfigurement that will impair your actions and life permanently. Don't be brash and foolish because you cannot stand to let time pass. Take a breath and for a moment relax as much as you can. Loosen your muscles and let your body lay calmly in bed. Try and relax; too much stress is a sure-fire way of getting a heart attack when combined with an improper diet." Stated the doctor. "So, please relax."

------------------------------------

The cafeteria was housed in a building that adjoined the enormous brick main building of the hospital. With stark decoration and an obsessive degree of cleanliness, the most impressive part of the cafeteria was the lack of anything particularly impressive. The food was fairly average in terms of selection, albeit exceedingly high in quality. While seated in a fairly nondescript part of the cafeteria, Alena was approached by a figure with pale skin, a blue suit, and black sunglasses obscuring their eyes. They sat down across from her and gave a quick glance about the cafeteria before addressing Alena.

"Who I am isn't too relevant right now. All you need to know is that Spencer is still a wanted individual, perhaps more now than ever before. I may or may not have been involved in something which if made known to some certain very powerful individuals, would result in them attempting to hunt me down. Long story short, the same people who tried to kidnap Spencer prior times are likely to try and persuade him to their cause through other means. Be warned that at any moment that plan can turn out to be a trap with fatal repercussions."

Seversvik, Monsone

Andrea was alone again, Ta'lhqejk gone once more. Left to ponder her thoughts on her own, Andrea had taken the opportunity presented by the confused state of her mind, to walk mindlessly through the streets of old Seversvik. Amid the crowds of tourists, the old buildings and narrower streets of the city's core acted like a maze. It was the ideal place to lose oneself in thought.

She paid no heed to the buildings that surrounded her. Off the top of her head, she could rattle off every factoid and detail about them. Nor did she read the signs placed throughout the area marking points of interest, she already know each and every one of them. At every turn, Andrea found herself confronting knowledge she seemingly could not have, thoughts not her own yet imbued in her brain. It was seemingly a phenomenon of having two minds in one brain, and yet there was no other. Everything was a uniform and linear scheme that made cohesive sense and yet lacked all meaning.

Finally, she halted in front of a red brick church. With two distinct spires as part of the facade and a green copper roof, she could rattle off every bit of information regarding the church. And yet something about it truly piqued her interest. The bells tolled, calling the hour and with their rining, Andrea felt some clarity. Ta'lhqejk had been right, her mind did function differently, think differently, remember differently, and act differently. There was a difference, and it was clear. But how to break beyond the superficial and to reach the true power Ta'lhqejk had spoken of? That was a question Andrea would need to find the answer to.

Somewhere Else Entirely

A warm beach, sunny weather, and cold drinks. That was all Erich had desired and it was exactly what he had received. He had been hoping for an "off-grid" vacation where there wouldn't be any bothers or responsibilities, just non-stop partying with some good friends and old acquaintances. After a night-long party and then a morning nap, sitting by the crystal-clear sea with a cocktail in a coconut seemed like the ideal way to pass the rest of the afternoon and warm up for the night's party. It was also nice to have a moment of quiet while everybody else was off swimming or sunning themselves. The waves were rhythmic and mesmerizing.

Then, the voice of MK1a hopped into Erich's head, polluting his otherwise blissful vista. Jolted out of his vacation mindset and forced to deal with responsibilities, he grumbled while placing the still-full coconut onto a holder. Next to it were half a dozen empty coconuts, clearly, past drinks that Erich had either consumed in the course of the prior night, or during the course of the afternoon. After removing his sunglasses and rubbing his eyes, he got off the chair and simply sighed in disappointment. This was supposed to be his vacation after all, and now its peaceful perfection had been shattered. He then addressed MK1a.

"Yes, yes. I am fine with that kind of proposal. Now if you don't mind, I have a drink to finish and a party to prepare for."

With that, he climbed back onto the chair, coconut in hand, and once more resumed his distant gaze at the sea and it's horizon.



via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:Ophelia saw this, and instructed her to try and loosen up; let it flow and try using it as she would a pencil.

(Just want to say, I have no idea how to paint lol.)

******

The Aerlanicans sighed, but understood.

******

"I don't; you removed that chance of her not being tormented when you defied me the first time...now, everytime you refuse, i'll just make her torment worse and worse."

Iblion grasped the back of her neck.
"So...do you want me to torment her more? or will you finally accept?"

(I have some experience, but not much.)

Vara nodded, tried, and failed to "loosen up." Vara continued to struggle. Her attempts to loosen up resulted in more chaotic strokes but no improvement.

******

Some of the strangers ask if there were any more Aerlanicans on any other worlds.

******

Witta considered her options. Eventually, she sighed.
"Fine, I accept."
She picked up the collar, and with a momentary hesitation, clasped it around her own neck as tears fell from her face.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Democratic Khanate of Rei Khan

North South North West Kansas wrote:Macy nestles her head against his shoulder and lets out a yawn. “Mmm, Guess I’m a little sleepy.”

Noelle smiles slightly. “Okay. I’ll go ahead and start filming now, you can start whenever you’re ready.”

Kira smiles. “I scored the best prize on Augusta.”

"Then sleep. In a few hours, I think we can bring Micheal here home." Thomas replied.

Kara nodded. She seemed nervous, despite her previous easygoing attitude.

"So did I."

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Monsone wrote:-snip-

Spencer sighed and slowly nodded.
"Ok...sorry."

He tried to settle in to relax, but didn't exactly do a good job of it. When your mot fearful enemy could appear at any moment, waltz in at anytime, and destroy everything he wished without a single obstacle standing in their way, it was hard to simply relax. Compounded with his general alertness and anxiety, he was simply a bundle of nerves firing a hundred times a second.

However Spencer did make an exerted effort to relax, as the doctor saw, and noticed that it possibly was having the opposite effect for a period of time. After a period of time, Spencer simply opened his book and obviously attempted to take his mind off of the environment.

"What are you reading?"

Spencer shrugged as he shakily adjusted his glasses once more.
"Just my book...it's got a lot of information in it...also some stories I like reading."

Dr. Mertegašte nodded and walked over to look over his shoulder; after all, showing interest in the book may allow him to build some rapport with Spencer and make the treatment go smoothly.

As he looked at the pages of the book, he saw runes, incomprehensible runes that shifted, melting into one another as ȶheʏ ʍovɛd ǟnd shuɖdɛʀeɖ wɨȶɦ an ɛֆƈօȶɛʀɨƈ ʍօȶɨօռ, ʟɨӄɛ ǟռ ʊռֆɦǟӄɨʟʏ ɮʀɛǟȶɦɨռɢ ɛռȶɨȶʏ ȶ̷͎͒ա̸͈͐ɨ̸͖̌ȶ̵̖͘ƈ̶̢́ɦ̵͊ͅɨ̸͒͜ռ̷̜̏ɢ̸̙͗ ǟռɖ զ̴̨͛ʊ̵̣͋ɨ̶̧̈́ʋ̸̖̍ɛ̴̯̒ʀ̴̼̆ɨ̵̃͜ռ̶͉̔ɢ̵̢̏ ̸͓͝, ȶɦɛ ա̵̭͘օ̴̺̽ʀ̸̘͐ʟ̵͓̕ֆ̷͕̓ ʀɛǟƈɦɛɖ օʊȶ, ɢ̷ʀ̵ǟ̸ֆ̴ք̸ɨ̸ռ̴ɢ̵ ̸ǟ̶ȶ̷ ̸ȶ̸ɦ̶ɛ̷ ̸ɛ̴ʏ̴ɛ̴ֆ̴ ̴օ̶ʄ̸ ̵ȶ̵ɦ̸ɛ̴ ̴ɖ̴օ̵ƈ̴ȶ̸օ̸ʀ̶ ̶ɮ̷ɛ̶ɢ̶ɢ̶ɨ̶ռ̶ɢ̴,̵ ̶ք̶ʟ̵ɛ̴ǟ̷ɖ̷ɨ̴ռ̵ɢ̷ ̶ȶ̶օ̵ ̵ɮ̵ɛ̶ ̷ʟ̵ɛ̵ȶ̶ ̷օ̷ʊ̵ȶ̸,̵ ̸ƈ̷ǟ̶ʟ̵ʟ̶ɨ̸ռ̷ɢ̷ ̷ȶ̴օ̴ ̴ȶ̴ɦ̶ɛ̴ʍ̸ ̴ǟ̴ռ̷ɖ̶ ̴ƈ̴ʀ̶ʏ̷ɨ̵ռ̷ɢ̸ ̵օ̴ʊ̶ȶ̶ ̴ʄ̵օ̴ʀ̷ ̷ɦ̸ɛ̷ʟ̶ք̴ ̵ք̶ʟ̷ɛ̵ǟ̶ֆ̶ɛ̴ ̸ɖ̵օ̵ռ̸'̴ȶ̷ ̵ʟ̶ɛ̴ǟ̸ʋ̸ɛ̵ ̵ʊ̴ֆ̶ ̴ʄ̴ʀ̴ɛ̷ɛ̷ ̸ʊ̷ֆ̷ ̶ɦ̷ɛ̵ʟ̶ք̷ ̸ʊ̶ֆ̷ ʋ̶օ̶ɨ̴ƈ̴ɛ̵ֆ̴ ̸ʄ̷ɨ̶ʟ̴ʟ̷ɛ̵ɖ̶ ̵ɦ̶ɨ̴ֆ̶ ̸ɛ̷ǟ̶ʀ̴ֆ̸ ̶ǟ̴ֆ̴ ̶ɦ̴ɨ̶ֆ̶ ̷ɛ̸ʏ̷ɛ̸ֆ̵ ̵ʀ̶ʊ̴ռ̷ɢ̶ ̶ǟ̷ռ̷ɖ̸ ̵ɛ̴ǟ̵ʀ̵ֆ̸ ̷ɮ̷ʊ̵ʀ̵ռ̷ȶ̸ ̵̩͓́̿͝ǟ̴̩͚̒̀͋ֆ̵͉̹̻̂̅͘ ̷̬͠ա̶͎̙̐͛̉ɛ̴̬̱̬̅̈́͂ ̴̛̖̟͒ɢ̵̹̀ʀ̵̻̌ǟ̷̪͠ֆ̶͉̕ք̵̡̽ɛ̶͕͘ɖ̵͎̏ ̵͕̃ǟ̵͓̔ȶ̷̹̔ ̸͕̅ɦ̴͙͋ɨ̷̺̋ʍ̸̘͊ ̵͖̈́ɮ̶̟̉ɛ̷͍͛ɢ̵̹̓ɢ̴͉͆ɨ̴̖̉ռ̷̧̂ɢ̸͇͂ ̴̗͊ȶ̷͙̆օ̶͈̍ ̷͚̔ɮ̸̣̀ɛ̷̍ͅ ̵͎͋ʟ̸̪͗ɛ̶̪̎ȶ̵̹̃ ̷̯͂ɢ̵̥͛օ̶̬̄ ̷̙̓ք̴̳̈́ʟ̴̳̾ɛ̶̱͋ǟ̷͉̓ֆ̴̼̈́ɛ̴̫̊ ̸͈̏ʟ̴̮͗ɛ̵̜̚ȶ̸̺͐ ̵̞̅ʊ̷̼̇ֆ̵̮̉ ̶̲̃ɢ̵̘̃օ̶̻̆ ̸̯̿ա̸̽͜ɨ̸̯͌ȶ̵̜͝ɦ̵̭̓ ̷̨̀ʏ̵̝͐օ̵̻̈́ʊ̶͕̾ ̴̢̿ք̴͍̄ʟ̶̝̀ɛ̸̜͘ǟ̶̞̌ֆ̴̃ͅɛ̷̜͐

ȶ̵ɦ̴ɛ̴ ̷ɖ̴օ̷ƈ̵ȶ̷օ̵ʀ̷ ̸ȶ̶ʀ̸ɨ̷ɛ̷ɖ̴ ̸ȶ̴օ̸ ̷ֆ̵ɛ̸ք̴ǟ̶ʀ̷ǟ̴ȶ̵ɛ̴ ̵ʄ̴ʀ̶օ̸ʍ̵ ̴ʊ̵ֆ̵,̸ ̷ȶ̶ʀ̶ʏ̴ ̶ȶ̴օ̴ ̸ʄ̵ʀ̵ɛ̷ɛ̶ ̸ʊ̸ֆ̷ ̷ռ̸օ̵ ɖ̵̥̀օ̶̖̌ռ̴̜̕'̸̜̄ȶ̶̢̈́ ̵̻̽ʟ̵͔̐ɛ̴̙͝ǟ̸̭̏ʋ̸̞̍ɛ̴̲͝ ̴̲̒Đ̶̮̾Ř̴̪̇₦̸͙̈́'̷̳̍₮̶̝̊ ̷̟̿Ⱡ̵̀͜Ɇ̸̲̏₳̴͎͒Ṽ̵͖Ɇ̶̢̏ ̸̣͑₱̸̀͜Ⱡ̶̢̌Ɇ̶̧͘₳̴̣̂₴̴͉̕Ɇ̴͓͊ ̷̺̎₥̶̗̾₳̸̗̈́₭̷̢̽Ɇ̴̲͠ ̷̼͌ł̶͓͆₮̴̢́ ̷̱͝₴̴̺͌₮̴̛̩Ř̵̺̎₱̵̺̍ ̷̮͗₥̶̹͂₳̸̗̈́₭̷̋͜Ɇ̵̗͝ ̷̼̓ł̷͈̊₮̶͚͘ ̷̱̓₴̵̫͝₮̶̕ͅŘ̵̛͔₱̷͎͊ ̴̦͋₥̴̘́₳̷̣͌₭̴̝͒Ɇ̶̗͑ ̵̢̋ł̷̮̉₮̸̬̌₴̵̲͊₮̴͔͍̒͝Ř̶̻̩͂₱̸̙͔̠͆̚ ̶̳̾₥̶̱̏̈₳̴̰͙͕͊₭̸̲̑͝Ɇ̶̙̻̫̇̿̕ ̸͎͋͜ł̸̝̙̬̅̿͐₮̸̓̑̿͜ ̶̢̳̺̅₴̶̨̖̲̈́̿₮̷̻̜̑̅͝Ř̸̮̞̖͠₱̵͍͈͛͊͜!̶̰̟̲̑ ̸̛̠̂͝₴̶͎̄₮̶̤̎̑Ř̵̰̋͜₱̴̨̳̏̈̒!̶̹͙̓͜ ̷̥̈

"Sir? Are you alright?"

Like a knife peircing the endless sea of ֆ̶̨̭̮̝̊͛ͅօ̵̡̮͎̱̏̇̇̎̌̇ͅʊ̸̟̞̜͆̀̕͠ʟ̵̙̺̺̦̩͖̗̆͊̓͗ֆ̴͖̳̮͈̘̋́̄ ̸͎͖̌̾̽͌̕̕ɮ̸̛̺̙̖̮̇͛̊̂̋̆ɛ̴̩̥̤͈̓͘ȶ̵̆̊͆ͅա̶̢̺̣͔̭̰̣͂̊̃̈́̌ɛ̷̡̹͚̍͊ͅɛ̷̡̭̠͇̪͔̀̈́ ̴̪͒͐͊̆̈́̍͂ք̷̄͗ͅǟ̶͓̾͑͐ɢ̶͙̣̞̪͕̭̞̆̎̎̋͂͑ɛ̷̞̯̏̓́̓͛̈̂ֆ̴̢̣͗͊̓͗̓̎̑-

No...no...his mind shunted what he had just seen deep into his subconscious, hopefully never to be seen again. But as the...whatever they were, left his sight, the Doctor found himself on the floor, breathing heavily as he gazed at the floor. He shook his head as he shakily got to his feet. His head throbbed with pain as a headache set in.

He glanced to the book in Spencer's hands, which was currently closed.

"Do...do you...I mean it's not that bad of a drawing is it?"

As Spencer showed the book to the doctor, he winced instinctually, expecting his mind to be asailed by...them...but instead it showed a picture of a bird upon a knights shoulder, with what appeared to be a narrative accompanying it, written in Augustan.

"Are you ok?" Spencer asked.

******

Alena, tired, took a long drink of her coffee. She frowned, and sighed.
"And so the already complex web tangles evermore incoherently."

Alena slowly shook her head.
"I will be upfront with you...I'm still coming to terms with my current...lack of power. Ever since Azerian has vanished somewhere I have been increasingly powerless to stand tall against the foes who seek to inflict ruin upon this world...I myself had to deal with many of my close colleagues simply being wiped out as our order was shattered into hundreds of fragments."

She idly turned her coffee around in her hands, looking down at it.
"I..." she laughed darkly, "I fear as though if this trap you speak of, if sprung, will result in a very difficult situation where I will have to take a drastic action to preserve Spencer's wellbeing...and while I am more than happy to breathe my last breath in noble service of Azerian's will...there is a slight caveat to such an action."

Alena gazed to the entity across from her.
"Spencer will have no dedicated protector."

She paused.
"In my prime, I would have been able to see through any lie you could tell, and know your full and true intentions. Here, I am flying much more blindly than I would...and thus, I risk asking this of you, if indeed your intentions are warped and corrupt.

"If I am to die, to protect Spencer, I ask that you pick up the torch and carry it until such a time when he is in full health. Whether he is used in half-breed celestial, titanic robot or some other medium of power...keep him safe, and ensure all actions are his own, and all actions he makes are in clear and unafflicted mind."

"If you truly care for the boy, you will ensure neither Monsone, Aerlanica or Roxium use him as a puppet; he is his own entity, and while it is cruel that his childhood was stripped from him so early on in his life...help him at least be a man for a few moments...and care for him as I have done."

******

CEVA-00 MK1a hastily withdrew from Erich, not wanting to bother him.

Tyramon wrote:-snip-

(Hey, you're still better than me.)

Ophelia saw this and simply stated she understood; it takes time and effort, she says, to learn how to paint, and told her not to be crestfallen if she didn't get it perfect the first time. Occasionally she would walk around, demonstrating how to move the brush, and occasionally even grasping the arms and moving them herself to give some semblance of an idea with how it should be done.

******

They shrug, unaware of the mountain planet, or the farming planet. They comment that they believe they may be the last ones alive.

******

Iblion smiled.
"Good girl." He murmured sadistically.

He reached down and gave the collar an aggressive tug, before running a finger down the side. Witta felt a spike of heat before it cooled.

Iblion then created a cup of water and handed it to her, still holding her collar with one hand.
"Drink up, pet." He said.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Rei Khans Wife of North South North West Kansas

Tyramon wrote:Aerlanica

Still, Corali feels as though something is not quite right. She can tell that the food is very well-made, but she isn't sure that it is what she wants. But, out of politeness, she says nothing and continues to eat the rest of the meal.

Luca doesn’t seem to notice anything with Corali on that end, and the group quietly finishes their breakfast, with Kenji sharing some of his with Eastrid. Once they’ve finished eating, Luca asks Corali what she thought.

Aerlanica wrote:

William let out a little chuckle.
"Well, I guess if the Protector of Kansas is endorsing my actions...I suppose i'll double my efforts."

He gave her a polite bow.

Carissa smiles and walks away.

Rei Khan wrote:"Then sleep. In a few hours, I think we can bring Micheal here home." Thomas replied.

Kara nodded. She seemed nervous, despite her previous easygoing attitude.

"So did I."

Macy smiles sleepily as her dad comes over to sit on the other side of the small hospital bed next to Macy, gently stroking her hair. “Sleep, Mace. We’ve got you.”
Macy nods and closes her eyes, slowly falling asleep surrounded by the three men she loves most in the world.

Noelle flashes a little smile. “Go ahead! Just be yourself, you’ll do great.” She turns on the camera and starts filming.

Kira blushes lightly. “Guess we both got lucky.”

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:(Hey, you're still better than me.)

Ophelia saw this and simply stated she understood; it takes time and effort, she says, to learn how to paint, and told her not to be crestfallen if she didn't get it perfect the first time. Occasionally she would walk around, demonstrating how to move the brush, and occasionally even grasping the arms and moving them herself to give some semblance of an idea with how it should be done.

******

They shrug, unaware of the mountain planet, or the farming planet. They comment that they believe they may be the last ones alive.

******

Iblion smiled.
"Good girl." He murmured sadistically.

He reached down and gave the collar an aggressive tug, before running a finger down the side. Witta felt a spike of heat before it cooled.

Iblion then created a cup of water and handed it to her, still holding her collar with one hand.
"Drink up, pet." He said.

The end result on Vara's canvas was a poor-quality imitation of Ophelia's masterpiece. The scale and sizing were off, the perspective made no sense, the lighting was unrealistic, and the details were splotchy.

******

Finally, the last of the Aerlanicans are rescued from New Grendel. Many had died in wait for the strangers despite the ships leaving to rescue the Aerlanicans as soon as the news of the Aerlanicans reached command. However, now the strangers began to talk of having to evacuate the Aerlanicans again, as "the war" would soon be reaching the planet they were currently on.

******

Witta began to drink desperately, her mouth dry as sandpaper.

North South North West Kansas wrote:Luca doesn’t seem to notice anything with Corali on that end, and the group quietly finishes their breakfast, with Kenji sharing some of his with Eastrid. Once they’ve finished eating, Luca asks Corali what she thought.

Corali nods and says it was good. She doesn't mention her slight discontentedness.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

North South North West Kansas wrote:Luca doesn’t seem to notice anything with Corali on that end, and the group quietly finishes their breakfast, with Kenji sharing some of his with Eastrid. Once they’ve finished eating, Luca asks Corali what she thought.

Carissa smiles and walks away.

William returns to the group.

********

Tyramon

Eastrid smiled and nodded.
"The food here is very tasty. They like their food here."

Tyramon wrote:

Witta began to drink desperately, her mouth dry as sandpaper.

Half a dozen or so Succubi had similar results, with only two actually managing to get close to the same level of quality Ophelia had. Ophelia gave positive reinforcement to everyone, as well as constructive criticisim.

She reached Vara, and nodded with a smile.
"For someone without any experience...your first try wasnt that bad. There's a lot of skills you don't know just based on your inexperience, but there's only one way to learn."

******

The Aerlanicans happily reunite with their brethren, before asking the strangers what "the war" is.

******

Iblion only gave her a few sips before he withdrew.
"Beg for it," He commanded, "Grovel for it, traitor."

The Dark Voidlands of The Children of Eternity

Aerlanica wrote:~snip~

"Would you even know if He was controlling you? He's a god, and we are but mortal."
Anna raises an eyebrow at Jonathan, but then shakes her head at herself.

"But that sort of thinking gets us nowhere. I trust you; be wary."

Kat has a much different reaction, practically bouncing out of her chair in excitement.
"THAT'S SO COOL! You're like the most daring guy I know! Well, I mean, I don't know that many guys, but you do the most amazing-est things!"

▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪▪

Celeste leans against the door-frame, a soft smile on her face, and just listens. This is ostensibly one of the most peaceful days she's had in recent months, and watching her girlfriend create something so beautiful is a perfect way to spend it. The thought that they haven't actually clarified what their relationship is yet, whether it be a one-night stand or something more, or even just a dinner date, momentarily breaks through the music to the forefront of her mind.

Celeste considers this, but shoves it away. Now is not the time for thinking. Now is the time for listening and enjoying.

...

As Katrina eventually brings the musical show to a close and lets the final notes dissipate, a gentle clapping rings out from the doorway.

Celeste glides forward, looking extremely impressed at the performance.
"You know, you're a lot better at this than you had let on. What was that piece?"

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federal Republic of Rathoria

Aerlanica wrote:~snip~

Each land group splits up immediately on finding the base. One member hangs back, assembling their rifles and sweeping all windows visible from their locations in the wooded areas for the target dummy. The other two Rangers from each unit establish a patrol of their own. They watch over the road and woods, while being careful not to enter or get too close to the clearing, keeping a close count of how many enemy soldiers enter and leave the area.

Having just managed to avoid detection for the second time the teams making their way through the water opt not to charge in headfirst. They, ironically, chose an opposite approach to that of the land teams. Two members of each group sit back with rifles while the third moves forward silently. The Rangers with ranged weapons out use their scopes to survey the area and search for the target while also counting everyone they can see. The two loners travel under the water wherever possible, aiming to get under the boat and disable it's motors without anyone noticing. That would ideally give the water units limited freedom of operation, as long as another doesn't show up.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:Eastrid smiled and nodded.
"The food here is very tasty. They like their food here."

Half a dozen or so Succubi had similar results, with only two actually managing to get close to the same level of quality Ophelia had. Ophelia gave positive reinforcement to everyone, as well as constructive criticisim.

She reached Vara, and nodded with a smile.
"For someone without any experience...your first try wasnt that bad. There's a lot of skills you don't know just based on your inexperience, but there's only one way to learn."

******

The Aerlanicans happily reunite with their brethren, before asking the strangers what "the war" is.

******

Iblion only gave her a few sips before he withdrew.
"Beg for it," He commanded, "Grovel for it, traitor."

Vara nodded.
"Thanks. It was fun...if a bit frustrating."

******

The strangers are hesitant to talk but eventually begin to explain.

Savareon had brought their people to this planet, which was then called Du Pou. Within only a few years of founding the planet and people, Savareon was forced into his slumber. He was only able to establish the basic foundations of rules, and much was left up to the interpretation of the people of Du Pou. As time went on and they expanded to many worlds, disagreements continued to mount. Most of the people on Du Pou favored a more liberal, free, and loose interpretation of the original rules. On the planet of Don Feron, an opposition movement gained strength favoring strict adherence to the rules and a very strict hierarchial system. The sides grew in size, polarization, and opposition. Debates turned to arguments, arguments turned to riots, and riots turned into a war that had been raging on and off for over a thousand years. They were less accepting of many things, and they would probably not look kindly upon the Aerlanicans' presence on Du Pou.

******

"Please," Witta said, her voice still coarse. "I'm desperately thirsty. I need water."

North South North West Kansas

Corali nodded
"Well, shall we move on from breakfast then?"

via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

The Children of Eternity wrote:

Celeste leans against the door-frame, a soft smile on her face, and just listens. This is ostensibly one of the most peaceful days she's had in recent months, and watching her girlfriend create something so beautiful is a perfect way to spend it. The thought that they haven't actually clarified what their relationship is yet, whether it be a one-night stand or something more, or even just a dinner date, momentarily breaks through the music to the forefront of her mind.

Celeste considers this, but shoves it away. Now is not the time for thinking. Now is the time for listening and enjoying.

...

As Katrina eventually brings the musical show to a close and lets the final notes dissipate, a gentle clapping rings out from the doorway.

Celeste glides forward, looking extremely impressed at the performance.
"You know, you're a lot better at this than you had let on. What was that piece?"

Jonathan quickly signed back to Anna;
"There are clauses in the treaty that ensures he doesn't."

He then turned to Kat and waved a hand.
"Please, half the time my adventures begins with me falling into the most strangest and outrageous of situations after trying to do basic tasks that my position entails. Some may even say I'm one of the most unlucky person they are aware of. However, your compliments are acknolwedged."

He gestured to Anna.

"However, as Anna stated, I am but a mere mortal; everyone has the capacity to be able to do what I can, considering they have the proper training prior, of course. but then again, sometimes individuals of significance come from unlikely places, and the most minor of actions could have the most resounding repercussions."

******

Katrina gave a small chuckle as she tucks a stray hair behind her ear.
"It's a song my mother used to play to me; it's called the Lullaby of Twilight...this is the harp she played when I was very young."

She smiled wistfully.

"She...ah...well...last I heard she was still under the thumb of Helga."

Her smile turned into a grimace.
"F&%k that bitch."

Celeste frowned.
"Something bad happened between you and your mother?"

"No," Katrina replied with a shake of her head, "Something happened to my mother; I was eight, bunch of men from the Courtesan Union had seen my mother walking down the street and thought she looked hot. Grabbed her by her neck and chased after me. I was lucky; got picked up by the Scrap Rats but...they couldn't find my mother.

"When I became Deputy Scrap Master, I went out looking for her in the Union's territory and found her in one of Helga's more depraived establishments servicing the Hag herself. If it wasn't for them damn Merchant f%$#'s sitting in their little gated community, having guns all around the place, I would've sprung her then and there..."

She hugged the harp.

"It's hard...really hard...to...be so f&%$ing close to saving someone you love...and just...be so damn powerless to save them...it kills you..."

"It kills you..." She repeats.

She sighed.
"I'd literally do anything to help her, set her free, even if it means I lose...all of this..."

Rathoria wrote:-snip-

The rangers in the wooded area find no windows with the target. This is to be expected; one would anticipate an attack coming from the woods and the dry land as it would be the quickest and easiest avenue of escape. Conversely, the window is clear as day for the water teams.

As the sun begins to set, two more boats return and five jeeps return to the base before the crews are swapped out and set out. There are an additional ten jeeps and five boats, suggesting rapid response forces in the event intruders are detected. They count at total of one hundred and fifty troops in this small base. The Waste Rangers, like ghosts, disable all the boats that do not leave, while the water based team prepare to take the shot.

Tyramon wrote:

"Please," Witta said, her voice still coarse. "I'm desperately thirsty. I need water."

North South North West Kansas

Corali nodded
"Well, shall we move on from breakfast then?"

Ophelia nodded.
"Of course it is! you can't expect to become an expert overnight, huh? Sko Buffs wasnt built in a day."

She gave Vara a comforting tap on the shoulder.
"You'll be fine; the first dozen is a bit hard to do."

******

The Aerlanicans ask how they can be of assistance. Likewise offering their services.

******

Iblion smiled.
"Alright...here you go."

He grasped the back of her head, opened her mouth, and poured it in himself.

North South North West Kansas

"Oh! can we show her the museum?" Eastrid asks.

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:Ophelia nodded.
"Of course it is! you can't expect to become an expert overnight, huh? Sko Buffs wasnt built in a day."

She gave Vara a comforting tap on the shoulder.
"You'll be fine; the first dozen is a bit hard to do."

******

The Aerlanicans ask how they can be of assistance. Likewise offering their services.

******

Iblion smiled.
"Alright...here you go."

He grasped the back of her head, opened her mouth, and poured it in himself.

North South North West Kansas

"Oh! can we show her the museum?" Eastrid asks.

Vara gave a smile.
"Thanks. If you don't mind me asking, where did you learn to paint? Were you...the daughter of a noble?"

(The lower class people of Tyramon generally wouldn't spend time on luxuries like painting, but noble or not it works either way. It is just less common if she wasn't nobility.)

******

The strangers - the people of Du Pou - say that they could use help in training military recruits for ground battles. If the Aerlanicans have any sort of experience in ground combat situations, that is.

******

The involuntary motion caused Witta to choke and cough at first, but she then managed to start swallowing.

North South North West Kansas

Corali nodded and shrugged.
"Sounds good to me."
She looked to Luca.



via Cape of Good Hope

The Federation of Aerlanica

Tyramon wrote:-snip-

Ophelia slowly nodded.
"Yeah...Major General Fara, he lorded over a city called Zakar...when he found out I was dating the maid in secret he..." She trailed off. "Well...let's just say it ended up with me broken and lying dead on the side of the road...I can only hope she was a bit more luckier than I was."

She waved a hand.
"But that's in the past, you don't want to know much about a disgraced Tyramonian girl with daddy issues."

******

The Aerlanicans gave a slight chuckle.

One of them stepped forward; she was a bit more tanned than the average Aerlanican, bearing some elements of almond eyes (an Aerlanic-Khanian). She titled her head to the side and shrugged, her black, clavicle length hair bouncing slightly as she did. She was quite lithe, if a bit thin due to the malnutrition, but she still smiled, filled with vigor all the same.

"Show me the troops."

******

Iblion smiled as the last drops of water slowly fell into Witta's mouth.
"Good...now...I have someone I'd like you to meet."

She watched as Iblion flicked his fingers. He waited several moments before a whirlwind of red motes of light silently appeared with little more than a brief gust of wind. After this, Witta felt her heart flutter as the sweetest scent she ever sment reached her ears, and she was filled with a rush of lust for this new individual.

Two perfectly manicured feet with red nails touched the ground, with skin of a pastel pink hue, devoid of all imperfection. Most the leg was bare before it reached a sleevless bodysuit with a deep V barely covering any of her private aspects of her body (which were quite prominent). Her hands, slender and silky smooth, softly clasped in front of her chest.

Behind her were wings of a deep crimson-black leather which despite their demonic and foreboding appearance only added to the majesty of the individual. Also behing was a long tail that ended with a triangular arrowpoint, barbed thrice, acting as a vicious natural weapon.

The neck was bare and slender, reaching up to an angular face with an insidious smile and equally as malevolent eyes. From her head, four horns spiraled from her forehead upwards like shards of black ivory lightning.

Witta's eyes were locked to this individuals eyes, and despite her best efforts, she could not tear them away. Witta was locked, transfixed upon gazing at this individual who she currently saw as the object of her desire.

"Lithalia...my most beautiful servant..." Iblion kissed the Succubi Matriarch on her cheek, "...make sure she...or rather 'it'...does not enjoy any moment...you have three hours."

Lithalia's smile grew wider, revealing perfect white teeth and accentuated canines. The lust vanished from Witta's body, but still she could not remove her eyes.

"Certainly, Master," she said, her voice lower than expected, but still impecibly refined, "I've a few things i've been wanting to test out."

Lithalia's slender fingers grasped Witta's collar.
"Get ready...toy."

******

Witta was left, bruised, scrapped and violated, lying cold in the corridor of Iblion's castle with her clothes torn asunder. Several bites covered her body, as well as a single letter etched into her skin with one of Lithalia's acursed nails; "MINE".

Footsteps approached, and the sound of Iblion laughing filled Witta's ears.
"You know, Witta." Came his voice. "If you just obeyed me...and accepted my offer the first time...that wouldn't have happened...likewise if you didn't go behind my back and continue to allow Corali and my pathetic excuse of a son to sign that treaty, and if you actually disposed of it in the first place...then you'd still be in Delegata's space."

The footsteps stopped before Witta, and Iblion crouched down.
"That is the price of rebellion...do you know that, Witta? Regardless...you're now mine...and every time you disobey, there's a chance I'll get Lithalia to pay you a visit."

via Cape of Good Hope

The Empire of Tyramon

Aerlanica wrote:Ophelia slowly nodded.
"Yeah...Major General Fara, he lorded over a city called Zakar...when he found out I was dating the maid in secret he..." She trailed off. "Well...let's just say it ended up with me broken and lying dead on the side of the road...I can only hope she was a bit more luckier than I was."

She waved a hand.
"But that's in the past, you don't want to know much about a disgraced Tyramonian girl with daddy issues."

******

The Aerlanicans gave a slight chuckle.

One of them stepped forward; she was a bit more tanned than the average Aerlanican, bearing some elements of almond eyes (an Aerlanic-Khanian). She titled her head to the side and shrugged, her black, clavicle length hair bouncing slightly as she did. She was quite lithe, if a bit thin due to the malnutrition, but she still smiled, filled with vigor all the same.

"Show me the troops."

******

Iblion smiled as the last drops of water slowly fell into Witta's mouth.
"Good...now...I have someone I'd like you to meet."

She watched as Iblion flicked his fingers. He waited several moments before a whirlwind of red motes of light silently appeared with little more than a brief gust of wind. After this, Witta felt her heart flutter as the sweetest scent she ever sment reached her ears, and she was filled with a rush of lust for this new individual.

Two perfectly manicured feet with red nails touched the ground, with skin of a pastel pink hue, devoid of all imperfection. Most the leg was bare before it reached a sleevless bodysuit with a deep V barely covering any of her private aspects of her body (which were quite prominent). Her hands, slender and silky smooth, softly clasped in front of her chest.

Behind her were wings of a deep crimson-black leather which despite their demonic and foreboding appearance only added to the majesty of the individual. Also behing was a long tail that ended with a triangular arrowpoint, barbed thrice, acting as a vicious natural weapon.

The neck was bare and slender, reaching up to an angular face with an insidious smile and equally as malevolent eyes. From her head, four horns spiraled from her forehead upwards like shards of black ivory lightning.

Witta's eyes were locked to this individuals eyes, and despite her best efforts, she could not tear them away. Witta was locked, transfixed upon gazing at this individual who she currently saw as the object of her desire.

"Lithalia...my most beautiful servant..." Iblion kissed the Succubi Matriarch on her cheek, "...make sure she...or rather 'it'...does not enjoy any moment...you have three hours."

Lithalia's smile grew wider, revealing perfect white teeth and accentuated canines. The lust vanished from Witta's body, but still she could not remove her eyes.

"Certainly, Master," she said, her voice lower than expected, but still impecibly refined, "I've a few things i've been wanting to test out."

Lithalia's slender fingers grasped Witta's collar.
"Get ready...toy."

******

Witta was left, bruised, scrapped and violated, lying cold in the corridor of Iblion's castle with her clothes torn asunder. Several bites covered her body, as well as a single letter etched into her skin with one of Lithalia's acursed nails; "MINE".

Footsteps approached, and the sound of Iblion laughing filled Witta's ears.
"You know, Witta." Came his voice. "If you just obeyed me...and accepted my offer the first time...that wouldn't have happened...likewise if you didn't go behind my back and continue to allow Corali and my pathetic excuse of a son to sign that treaty, and if you actually disposed of it in the first place...then you'd still be in Delegata's space."

The footsteps stopped before Witta, and Iblion crouched down.
"That is the price of rebellion...do you know that, Witta? Regardless...you're now mine...and every time you disobey, there's a chance I'll get Lithalia to pay you a visit."

Vara nodded.
"Fair enough. Any plans for the day then?"

******

Any Aerlanicans who wished to help train were put in drawn open top carriages. The beasts that pulled the carts were roughly horse-like, but with thicker fur. The Aerlanicans were taken to a building - the barracks - near the center of the city, quite far from the edge of town. Inside, there were roughly two hundred trainees. Some were practicing archery with bone-tipped arrows. Many arrows were fired, and only a few hit their targets. Others practiced with spears, swords, and clubs, wearing organic armor plating. They were a bumbling mess. Clearly this group was quite new.

******

Witta looked at Iblion. She hated the experience, but there was one thing that could make it worthwhile.
"Please, let me see Corali."

via Cape of Good Hope

The Intergalactic Federation of Roxium

(Doing a small timeskip)
(Also pinging both Aerlanica and Monsone)

Cicada black site in the Amaterasu-Gamma 3 solar system

"The initial activation test for CEVA 0 Mark 2 was completed about an hour ago, and was just as uneventful as CEVA 0 Mark 1b's initial activation test. The results of the test were more or less identical to that of a standard Eva, and system fluctuations were well within tolerance ranges." says Risato. "Preparations are already underway for the dual S2 Core experiment. The Celestial S2 Core is en route to the test site along with the CEVA. As per Cicada Command recommendations, the Celestial S2 Core will be linked to CEVA 0 Mark 2's second S2 core slot by external cables equipped with circuit breakers at the half-way point and explosive charges on either side. Two neutronium bombs will be located above and below the test chamber. In the event that all other safeties should fail, the neutronium bombs are to be detonated." "Has NERV made a decision on CEVA 0 Mark 2's pilot?" asks Inaki. "NERV has managed to narrow its list of candidates down to two: Kamina Simon, and Viral Teppelin. While both are exceptionally skilled EVA pilots, in all likelihood, I see Kamina being chosen as CEVA 0 Mark 2's pilot." replies Risato. Both Inaki and Risato look over footage of CEVA-00 Mark II's initial activation test. The completed CEVA-00 Mark II resembles something akin to a humanoid version of Subnautica's reaper leviathan, complete with its coloration and 4 eyes.

Shingukai

Several hours after Spencer was moved, Cicada managed to locate him. Knowing that Iblion thinks he's dead, Cicada opts to maintain a very small orbital presence rather than a ground presence. A single Galileo-class battle corvette takes up a position in geostationary orbit somewhere above Kemptburge. As this is a Cicada vessel, it is unmarked. Unlike the autonomous arks, the Galileo-class battle corvette is small, making it VERY difficult to spot in the sky. Galileo-class battle corvettes have a length of around 210 meters, and the one above Kemptburge is some 500 miles above it. It is also by this point that the fleet of autonomous arks that arrived in response to Iblion have left.

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