Ascalon and Famfrit, what is freedom to an Oscuri?

[16:11] And through the icy caverns arrives a group of four and a quarter, counting Nemaniti. Adonis is heading the pack, but eventually leaves them behind to make his way up to the platform Famfrit was on.

Hop. Hop. Skip.

He makes lightwork of scaling the mountain, as if he had lived here for most of his life.

Eventually he moves to examine Prodotis, studying his hair and attire. " So this is the kid? " And then to Famfrit, Slade, and the group below.

" Ascalon wants their child back. They called me pretty. I told them I'd bring them to the mountain. Negotiations are between your two groups from here on. " A hand reaches out to adjust the flower crown on the boy's head as he waits.
(Adonis Lelhua)
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[16:15] Exactly what he expected.

"Welcome to the mountain, Ascalon is it? And Sima you're back as well."

The Laughing Wolf stood above them all. Watching as they make an overly ballsy play to get their son back. Such lengths traveled for something so small.

"They've served their purpose, so I don't mind giving you the remote back. I just ask for some of your time, and trust. It's asking for a lot, I'm sure.

But you're interesting to me. A chat between us and your son is free."

The Mask Grins.
(Famfrit)
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[16:21] Ronin didn't really know exactly what this situation entailed, nor why it occurred, but he recognized some of the faces.
The individual that once guided them joined the others up top a cliff -- Leaving a dropped feeling in his stomach.

Above he noted:
Garrick, from the brawl with Yasuyoshi earlier, and...
The mask grinned, spiking the traveler with a bone chilling shiver crawling up his skin. He couldn't tell if the goosebumps were from the cold he ill-prepared for, or sheer discomfort.

That was Famfrit.
" The smiling mask." He murmured to himself, keeping a mental note.

Ronin broke away from his gander to glimpse over to Ascalon and Sima.

" I recognize that guy up there." He spoke quietly, in hopes of not being heard coherently from up top the cliff before them.
"That one up there... He was with Yasuyoshi earlier."
(Ronin)
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[16:22] The Oscuri wore no maskes and frankly? They looked tired, perhaps the past few months in Levengard hadn't been exactly a vacation for them.

"I've been to these old ruins before, though the welcome is appreciated. Civility, to often loses it's meaning among those who've known security to long."

A flush trailed along the Oscuri's reika-lines, those green bands of energy trailing through their form. It'd been a long time since they'd been in a fight that mattered. A long time since the war, though had such time dulled their spirit?

If the brief second of pause as they bent to the ground, pushing themselves away and hurtling up into the air. Twirling about to land upon the cliffs edge with Famfrit. Well, if that was any indication no it hadn't.

"I'm here, let's talk."

As they spoke their hand would come to rest upon the handle of their mace-whip. Knowing full wellthat talking could mean anything. A life growing up within the city of Dawn.
(Ascalon Zanders)
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[16:22] Ballsy? Yes. Stupid? Absolutely-- Was it what the Kang always did?

Absolutely.

Pulling the jacket taut against his frame he'd beam his usual, soft smile at the Wolf. Those light blues scan over those among the cliff's edge, taking extra note of the dragon... He'd keep his smile even as a frown wanted to sprout forth.

"Hello again, Famfrit."

Yet, that soft smile pulls back into its reserved nature. The air was grim with what was implied. Drawing in a short breath he'd let Ascalon head the discussion from here. Kraus knows it could go a number of ways...

He only hoped it remained peaceful.
(Sima Kang)
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[16:22] Eyes inspecting each one of the members, finally setting on Ascalon. It fills his heart with a moment hope looking at the Oscuri, a hope that instantly was replaced. Famfrit words leaving a sour taste all over his mouth.

Narrowing emerald hues moving to Famfrit.
"I--.. I asked you to let my parents outside of this issues. Why would you want to talk with him?.."

Moving his eyes to his father once again, shaking the head to each side. Although it became too late, his father jumping beside him.

"Y-You shouldn't have come here Papah."
(Prodotis Zanders)
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[16:24] Slade finds himself perched upon the rocky cliff and staring down at the others from afar. His eyes widen and his maw opens for a laugh when he spots Sima. "An angel! You are so bold for coming up here alone! Do your wings taste as fine as the chickens do? I believe I've some sauce somewhere around here."

Slade cackles and does a small twirl in the snow as he's flapping his wings about. "I'm going to devour the blue-haired one if no one has anything to say! Speak now or forever hold your peace!"

Emerald flames begin to bloom and wrap around Slade's body.
(Slade)
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[16:24] Garrick would exit the cave's dark confines, glancing with a tilt of his head at a few familiar faces, some far less familiar, as with an accelerant leap of flame he would jump forth with a smoking trail all the way up to the cliff's edge. Lit cigarette never leaving his sharp teeth, he'd glance back down at the gathering with an idle hum as his molten eyes flecked between Sima and Ascalon, before nodding to the laughing wolf himself and good Adonis.

And of course a two clawed salute to Slade, the best dragon.

"Funny that you think he's a prisoner in a place as free as this. Hardly wrong to not want to be a slave, even if the gilded cages down south are oh so pretty and quaint. Yet, you came here to talk, no crime in a bit of pleasant conversation."
(Garrick)
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[16:27] Ascalon Zanders whispers: (I'm going to kill you Preacher. You better hope they find a way to keep you here.w
[16:27] A hand would be reached out over Prodotis head. A tanned hand with long, unruly and dirty, finger nails would place itself atop his head. Ruffling his hair so very slightly.

"They won't be harmed, don't worry.

Now. Ascalon, Slade. We'll be going to the house up north. We'll have a quick chat and you'll all be free to leave."

His hand would be drawn back to rummage through his cloak. Finding the collar remote, he'd hand it out towards Ascalon.

"A sign of good faith between us. You may also bring your son, if you wish."
(Famfrit)
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[16:27] {ITEM} Traded item with Famfrit: Anti-Magic Remote
[16:28] Adonis Lelhua exclaims, "Have fun!"
[16:28] Famfrit says, "Will do."
[16:30] Garrick says, "Watch out for the slush on the slope. Real slippery."
[16:31] Ascalon joins the many beyond the cliff's lip. Well, that left him a bit high and dry. A light huff parts in a cloud of smoke as those light blues flick back towards the dragon. Once more that small smile draws on his lips.

"Have to be bold to make sure the right thing is done. I uh... I prefer no one gets hurt in the long run and all, hence why I'm here. Hel, told Famfrit that already.

� Been told I don't taste too well, however." Shoulders roll in a shrug as his gaze sets itself back on Famfrit. Tilting his head to the side he'd press his lips into a thin line.

"Ronin and I are to remain out here I take it?"
(Sima Kang)
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[16:32] Slade says, "Alas.. A tasty dinner lost.."
[16:32] Slade says, "You are no fun, Famfrit."
[16:32] Slade exclaims, "We could rule this continent - I could devour everything that comes across!"
[16:32] Ronin says, "..."
[16:32] Slade says, "Alas, I float.."
[16:32] Slade says, ".. Hungry."
[16:32] Famfrit says, "I don't seek to rule Agartha, Slade."
[16:33] Slade says, "But you could."
[16:33] Slade says, "Your goals could be left and right but I'd still be hungry."
[16:34] Slade says, "Perhaps I'll write an ode to this."
[16:34] Nemaniti says, "Slade the little hungry dragon. Cute story."
[16:34] Garrick says, "Better to make it all ash. No gods, no masters."
[16:34] Garrick exclaims, "And probably still snacks!"
[16:35] Slade exclaims, "For one I had to squint to notice, you shouldn't mention little!"
[16:35] Slade exclaims, "Kaha!"
[16:35] Ronin whispers something.
[16:36] Slade says, "Hm, hm, hm, hm."
[16:36] Slade says, "Famfrit. Help me write lyrics later for my ode."
[16:36] As Prodotis spoke their father, who was a woman right now don't hate. Cast a glare their way, the older Oscuri would bark out a reply that'd be more fitting upon a battle-field than talking to their child.

"No, Prodotis. You shouldn't have came here. In fact, you shouldn't have left Levengard. Prison or not your House is there. Your HOUSE, now I've had to come up to this frozen peak in order to get you.

I left that damn city I tried so hard to get into so you children could grow up safe. Now? I've given them another reason to push for my execution. Because you a CHILD felt confused about who you where."

They'd catch the remote evenly. With a twist they jerk a thumb towards their side. As they looked upon Prodotis, it was clear they expected the child to keep close to them.

Those Emerald hues shifted towards Famfrit for a moment. Then the Oscuri would shake their head. Go alone with the man and a Void-dragon?

"I'm no young fool, I know what this Slade is and I've a good handle on what you are. You and I can go alone or I'll be taking Sima as my second."

They'd look down the mountain to Sima and Ronin, there was a pause for a few moments. Eyes critically focused upon Ronin, as if measuring the man.


(Ascalon Zanders)
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[16:37] Slade says, "You don't know anything about me, emerald child."
[16:37] Famfrit says, "Fine. We go alone."
[16:37] Slade says, "The name Slade is a name, a moniker. Use it wisely."
[16:37] Slade snarls.
(Slade)
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[16:38] Garrick says, "Your loss, now we get to hang out with the cool dragon."
[16:38] Slade says, "Since you're going alooone, Famfrit. I think I will get to know this delicious looking chicken."
[16:38] Ascalon tilted their gaze at Slade. Maybe this one was a more complete construction.
(Ascalon Zanders)
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[16:38] Slade says, "Close and personal."
[16:38] Slade says, "Veehehery close."
[16:38] Ascalon Zanders says, "I've dealt with enough dragons."
[16:39] Ascalon Zanders says, "My side, Proddy. Now."
[16:42] An up the mountain they'd go. Until the trio would come upon a very large house. There was nothing out the ordinary about it, besides some signs of wear.

Entering, and locking the door after the three exit. Famfrit would take a seat on a lone chair, not really caring what the Oscuris did.

"A Powerful Warrior of Azrael. Reduced to what exactly? Oh, they've treated you so poorly."

A bit of concern ran in his voice.

"Bound in chains heavier than your binding to Azrael. Forced to sit and play as an experiment for the angels, I take it? Is this really what you want in your life, Ascalon? Eternal servitude to those who tried to kill you before."

It was even more apparent with what they said. Executing her because of this all? Barbaric.

"You deserve better. To be free."
(Famfrit)
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[16:44] The blacklined oscuri remains close to his father but drowned by the guild and hurt by his words. Tears soaking the charcoal cloth, the long red strands and all over his cheeks as he cries in silence behind them. It was obvious now, his father didn't understand his reason. The only one he once thought felt like him was like the others in his life.

"I'm.. so sorry.." He repeat multiple times as the sleeve keeps rubbing his cheeks, emerald hues distant in the wood.

Prodotis attention was caught after Famfrit words, pressing his nails in the fabric of his cloth. Not really understanding much about what he said, but at the same time curious about the reason his father would remain in such a place like Levengard.

"Hmm.."
(Prodotis Zanders)
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[16:55] A heavy hand came to rest upon Prodotis head. It was all the reassurance the boy received from their parent. They could feel a calming sensation, they it didn't come from Ascalon. Another being was watching over the situation and offering comfort to the young Zanders.

If one looked closely they might even see the ethereal shadow that hung over the duo. A Zanders who'd lived decades ago, remaining to watch over the last of their dying house. Watching over the last of the Zanders.

Her gaze rested solely upon Famfrit as they sat. The Oscuri stood, a natural inclination from their years within the Legion. It was easier to stand and fight than sit and fight after all.

"Is it what I want?"

The Oscuri's frown worsened at the question, they'd known it was coming. They'd heard the whispers and stares from others who'd lived in Aurum. Why had the former Paladin accepted his position in Levengard?

"No, I want Azrael's vision to be fulfilled. I want Dawn to rise once more to serve as a beacon to the hypocrits and cowards that mare this pathetic continent."

The feeling of bile in their voice as palpatable. They'd little reason to hide their distaste for the world from this Ookami.

"However, I've my House to consider and their are precious few Zanders left. They needed a place to grow and beomce strong. A place to rise, I had wanted that place to be Aurum. Yet, it was clear only I stood for the city. Only I had the power or the training to do so."

As she spoke her right hand shifted from Prodotis head, extending out the fine-mithril plates clinking softly as they balled that hand into a fist. A flush of raw reika coating it.

"I'd held out hoping others of the Legion, those who hadn't forgotten their Oath to Azrael's people would arrive to aid me. For years I waited, do you know how many came? One. Only one remained true to their oath."

The Zanders shook their head at that point. A scowl settling upon their features.

"Freedom isn't the destiny of the Oscuri. We are born bound to the great vision of Azrael, we live our lives bound to the powerful who rule where we are born. Upon Agartha at-least. We live our lives, we fight for the greater good, we die."
(Ascalon Zanders)
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[17:05] As disgusted as he was, yet two different means to deal with it. Famfrit would take the worlds sorrow and do as he must to free them, yet Ascalon had just wanted to protect his own family. A noble goal, but a short term one.

"Do you remember an Oscuri, Godfrey Vishkar?

I've heard bits and pieces of his tale and it's a tragedy, wouldn't you agree? Forced from Levengard and killed by them in the end. Snatched up by Fera Fengari over a simple bounty."

He looks towards Prodotis and then back at Ascalon. He could see why she gave so much to defend them, even if the child had walked into Famfrits own den. They were willing to give it all to save his lineage. Yet... Famfrit would view it as yet another chain that kept the Oscuri a slave.

"I've also heard Levengard killed Fera. There's plenty that goes on there, but none of it is... ideal in my opinion. Death, death, death. Yet some might say I'm the murderous bandit."

A slight chuckle. It was mostly true, but everyone on this continent was a sinner.

"What were Azrael's goals, Ascalon? Tell me how you see them.

I'll tell you mine, Freedom. I wish for this continent to be given to the people once more. So we aren't ruled over by the Angels or the Jianghurans. I want you and your people to be as respected as my people. No person or ideology will lead Agartha, and through that we'll all be equals.

Albeit I have to agree to an extent. You'll never truly be free, yet you have a lot more autonomy than those Qilins. Do you not?"

A hand is brought up to his chin as he further observes the old Paladin. A curious tale, after all.

"I believe my vision is better than you living in squalor. We guarantee your family a more reliable safety as well."
(Famfrit)
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[17:10] The boy remains in the shadow of the conversation. Nothing to say or to do in the moment. The names didn't ring any bells to him but the stories? It opened a rift inside his chest that keeps growing like a seed in a fertile soil with doubt.


(Prodotis Zanders)
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[17:22] "I remember Godfrey, he was one of my charges once. His mother was my master, for a decade almost. His fate is simply another failure I've been burdened with."

He'd heard the tale, been a part of it. To this day he wonders why he'd not killed Fera himself. Perhaps it was simply out of respect for Sors. After-all, it'd been his dog acting out. Not that it mattered now.

"Levengard is a city divided, they'll never stand on their own principles unless someone forces them to. Currently, someone is doing that. Someone, I'd not expected to exist."

There was a pause as the Oscuri listened to Famfrit's words. Though they'd remain neutral to what the wolf said. The Oscuri stood tall for a moment.

"Save humanity from suffering. It was always his goal, when you cut away the excess. It's a simple goal and one beyond a single Oscuri. It was beyond Azrael as well, if the knowledge I've gained in Levengard is true.

One benefit of the city has been the breadth of knowledge I've gained while in it. Dawn had lost all it's sources of history before I was born. A dead city waiting to die, Sors knew that I think."

There was a few moments when the Oscuri paused, the laughing would had said they offered protection?

"You're an amusing one Famfrit. Offer us protection? Have you never fought the warriors of Levengard? I have, not just the grunt soldiers like Sima but those warriors who lead. They've the power of angel's undiluted, weapons of war unparrelled, numbers beyond what small band exists on this mountain.

Do you want to know something more? They'd intended to crush Aurum simply for existing, Levengard's leaders at-least tried an alternative. Though, Aurum would have just been a stepping stone as they moved to cleanse this mountain. Tell me, who upon this mountain is going to push back the Concordant's attack when it comes?"
(Ascalon Zanders)
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[17:28] "They're looking for change, but is it coming? Would the will of the few outweigh the many? You have to weigh your chances here and realize that if whoever has granted you an ounce of leniency gets removed by the actual wolves. Well..."

Famfrit believed Ascalon could fill in the rest. His conversation was mostly over, and he had hoped he carried his point through.

"If I die, I die a Martyr. I've spoken to many already about my dreams, and many of those understand.

I am willing to taken upon Agartha's sorrow and death in order to reestablish freedom. To end our own suffering at the hands of those in power. Those who sit upon their towers and send the less privileged out to die so they may remain."

A slow rise from his chair. As it was about time to let the two go.

"I'd want to believe many would die for my dream. But, ah something you forget.

We aren't tied to this mountain. If they come? We scatter. Back into every city where we will lie and wait for a better time to strike. I've only adopted this mountain because of friends, and more recently, many have came up here seeking me.


I hope some of my words have reached you, Ascalon. Consider my message and what would come with it. I wish no bad blood between your family and us."


He'd move over to the door to unlock it. Setting the two free.
(Famfrit)
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[17:37] There was a feeling of doubt which settled into the Oscuri's breast. She was no fool and understood very well the dangerous situation she faced while within Levengard. All it took was for Lea or Adrian's desires to be pushed aside. That's all it took.

"Good, I've enough bad-blood as it is for myself. I'd rather my children not suffer for it."

As she spoke she'd turn around. The meeting had shed light upon the mountain and what the people here wanted. It wasn't surprising that such a group would gather after generations of rule over the continent had finally tightened to a chokehold.

There was something about it all that left the Oscuri in a difficult position. What where they really going to do? Could they stay within Levengard waiting for a promised machine that'd 'fix' his children?

Did she abandon those chances for the ability to continue the fight that should never end. The fight against angelic imperialism which plagued humanity so greatly.

If only she'd forsaken family like so many other Oscuri have done in the past the choice would be clear. Though for now? She'd scoop Prodotis up into her arm. Carrying the child out of the house and back into the snows beyond.
(Ascalon Zanders)
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[17:39] The conversation reach the final chapter or maybe it was just the first? The only fact was that Prodotis was glad this ended in the best way possible. Although inside him the seed was watered. Prodie grabs the woman sleeve and stares Famfrit.

鼎oul- I need my blade back.. It was a gift.�
(Prodotis Zanders)
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[17:40] Famfrit would hand not one, but two blades to the child.
(Famfrit)