Redscuri to Silverscuri

[11:21] Ascalon floated close to the Archon, the formerly green lines turned to black now vibrantly glowing a crimson red. With that red pulse came a vibrancy to the man's appearance. Seemingly full of energy for the first time since being shackled with the strange devices of Calael.

"Fought a creature from the stars and found my those blacken'd husks Calael's creation had brought about filled with the mana of the stars. I thought, perhaps of drinking an elixer but I wanted to keep them. To Show that our lines can be fixed, if not by this city than by other means. "

After he'd spoke his attention shifted from Eiphraem to Elyon, wondering what they where talking about. Cores? Illyothon technology was the only thing he could guess.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[11:22] Quicksilver asks, "Mmm. Mmmh- May I make contact with you?"
[11:24] Ascalon Zanders says, "Yes."
[11:25] Arlei crossed her arms, a foul expression upon her face. It was good that Ascalon was, once again, filled with energy. . but at what cost? He knew she loathed Belial vehemently, moreso than the denizens of the mountain itself. It had caused her undue stress and suffering, and yet. .

He wanted to keep them?

Her weapons were still in her hand, entirely untrustworthy of Ascalon right now. Belial had a habit of causing any situation to fall to complete chaos, and she'd be ready. He'd be drinking that goddamn elixir whether he wanted to or not. Whilst the lines were pretty, it was not worth his mind.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:27] Quicksilver whips his hand towards Ascalon at what might be unnerving speeds, something that might trigger any warrior's reflexes for an attack. Naturally, he'd be prepared to match or grip a 'counter', but there is a reason the beast asks. If Ascalon manages to hold himself back, Eiphraem would just grab his wrist, extend his arm, and roll up his sleeve.
(Quicksilver)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:30] That soft, mild curl of lips remain, and just the faintest of hums escapes past as the Chieftain keeps those azure hues focused upon Eiphraem's gaze underneath the shadows of that disguise. Yet another, lighter chuckle is allowed to bubble forth at the first few words there.

"Pleasure, yes. Heard a lot of stories... regarding Crafthold, and yourself as an individual. Thank you, though, centralization of tribes was a long overdue reform; been, what, over a century since first colonization? Such divisions were never that necessary to begin with, but-"

At the mention of core, however, those eyebrows of his knit together into a smaller frown. He'd let the silence linger a moment longer before speaking yet once again.

"Both."

Mumbled, and then yet another, brief yet.

"Regarding the core, and it's operation... I'd probably approach Magdalen later, too, but- suppose you'd like to finally examine it so, as well? That aside, there's a bit of personal request afterward. Though, yeah."


(Elyon Hirai)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:35] Ascalon only barely noticed the flicker of rapid motion from the Archon. His mind wasn't focused clearly but it was still as honed as ever. In that split second the Oscuri catalogued what was happening.

The Archon was directly before him, to close for the use of his flail. The right was blocked by the clinical building, so that left that route out. He could retreat but no. In a smooth motion the Oscuri's left fist came up to block any attacks at his body.

His right, however, immediately flashed bluish-silver as he summoned the power of the spirit-realm and his own mana. Those lines of crimson blazed fiercely as his right hand shot forward. The hand transforming from a closed fist wreathed in mana to a knife. Sharp, the mana condensing into a narrow point at the tip.

It was clear the man was going for the Archon's throat, both to damage the physical part of things. As well as to strike at the very mana-nodes that allowed the being to channel it's mana. Whether he hit or not depended really, on the Archon's own ability.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:36] Dashes forward trailing starlight to try and stay the Oscuri's hand.
(Calista Shimasu)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:37] Whilst Arlei was a loving wife, she couldn't abide violence towards Eiphraem, the one who had given her a life in the first place. This was the results of the Cursed Cosmic mana affecting Ascalon, she was sure of it.<p> "Calm yourself!" she yelped, dashing forwards in an attempt to grasp Ascalons wrist before the blade made contact.
(Arlei Zanders)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[11:38] Elyon offers a faint, somewhat audible breath outward as he watches the ex-Oscuri get restrained. A light, little hum follows, but quiet, otherwise.
(Elyon Hirai)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:42] Ah, right. These small drakanites WERE soliders! Bless their hearts.

The demon 'fails to react'.

But what might surprise some present, is how just for a moment, the edges of his mouth curl upwards. Just a little bit. It's gone in a blink, but noticable by the magi darting forwards to try to stop the scarlet, honed blade of energy aiming for the neck.

Someone with powerful magic senses might detect Eiphraem's entire throat dissolving, and Ascalon would either catch him RIGHT in the windpipe and send him sprawling were it not for Arlei, or the serpent's self assurance would pay off-

And that oversized, enormous hand would wrench Ascalon's entire body sideways, using the calculated power from his body's muscles to force him to whiff even the point blank strike, as Eiphraem lifts him at the righht moment by the grip landing on his wrist.
(Quicksilver)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:48] Calista obviously is there in moments, as well- But the serpent softly holds Ascalon off balance there, half bent over himself, left arm tugged over his head to the other side to put the right off balance, exhaling sharply.

A breath in, follows!

"Hello. We are fine." His voice is a bit- More energetic? There's an almost anticipatory note, but the demon ebbs it down into that easy, numb, monotone, word by word. "All is fine. Hello, Ascalon." He repeats himself, head starting to bob...

Does Ascalon try to follow up?
(Quicksilver)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[11:54] Now Ascalon wasn't the /fastest/ in the world but the sudden grips hit him. Arlei's own was probably the most effective at breaking his concentration. Though, truthfully if he'd had the second to throw a second strike he would have in that moment.

Of course that was calmed down as the Archon bodily lifted him up a bit. It was less that he was held back and more that he'd not felt an actually hit from the previous motion. Hanging there with the steady pulse of cursed cosmic mana through his ley-lines clashing with the calming spiritual mana that'd coated him as the battle began.

Well it was an odd sensation! Though the Oscuri, would take a breath in the same time as Eiphraem. Steadying himself as well. It wasn't impossible to do, he'd been doing such things his entire life after all. Calming a looming meltdown.

"Hello Eiphraem."

He didn't follow up the strike! The mana about his hands which'd honed to such a precise point began to dissipate rapidly.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[12:03] The serpent, much more slowly, lets Ascalon's body not need to be on tiptoes as he moves with a lot more eye-followable grace, politely respecting the Drakanite's battle reflexes, slowly readjusts those inhumanly large hands to go through with his original plan, of rolling up his sleeves.

Earfins flick and twitch underneath the hood, letting out a thrumming, echoed hum from his nasal slits and gills.

He's certainly noting that.

"Yes, of course, Elyon." He finally replies. "Just a moment then, if you will."

Exhale. Inhale... A faint, tickling sensation squirms along the filled, scarlet lines along Ascalon's arm.

"Mmm. I recognize this, and ordinarily I would, in fact, urge you to immediately purge yourself of this influence."

"It will degrade your self control- Though I would not point to this as an ideal example, it tends to be a bit more subtle than the usage of a good, natural reflex," He bobs his head. What's a bit of attempted jugular severing between two sapient beings??? "And it leads to, unfortunately, insanity, poor life choices, inability to properly access threats, and attraction to or being a scantily clad nagual woman."

His tone doesn't skip a bit. But maybe that last was a joke????

"Normally, I would agree with your wife on this-" He turns towards Arlei, nodding. "However, I would actually ask that you refrain, and permit me to see what happens if we utilize a device to purify this energy and perhaps catalyze the very process I was aforementioning in terms of connecting you unto a star for new power."

He releases the man's wrist.

"I heavily advise considering yourself inebriated for the purpose of self review. You are aware of what this power is, correct?"

"It should ebb from your system in time so long as you don't seek it out, but these effects of 'rejuvenation' and 'power' are, essentially, how it drugs and attracts converts. I heavily advise not being tempted by it. It attempts to claim your soul on demise, and the promise of 'freedom' it makes is incredibly shallow and to lure the gullible."
(Quicksilver)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:14] The lowering to the ground would have certainly been more comfortable. Especially giving the less than impressive stature of the Oscuri. Though as his sleeve was rolled away, to give a better view of the line's about his arm no doubt.

Truthfully he had no clue what the Archon was doing, but the tickling was noted and it brought an odd feeling to him. Just a slight twitch of his lips. Though as the Archon began to speak the Oscuri listened, nodding on occasion to show that he understood.

Though as the man continue to speak the Oscuri would smile. Aye, what was a bit of attempted jugular severing? Back in Dawn that had been the past-time of most anyways. Though at the mention of scantily clad Naguels that small smile switched to a laugh. Whether it was funny or not didn't matter at this point everything felt amplified.

"I can keep them for the time being. It's been years since I've felt this good anyways. As for Belial, I've dealt with it's curses and lures before."

The man scoffed truly, at the times he'd been a fully green-lined Oscuri and the promises had felt pale in comparison to the Morninglords truths.

"I'm willing to see what this device can do."
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[12:16] Quicksilver says, "Certainly. I think I will need to get either Calael or Sima."
[12:16] Arlei releases Ascalons arm, biting down upon her lip. She prayed Ascalon didn't get uppity with Eiphraem any further, and as requested, she'd hold off on feeding him an elixir.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:16] Quicksilver says, "Hmmn."
[12:16] Quicksilver asks, "Would Sima be in town, or in Gehenna, at this hour?"
[12:17] Arlei Zanders says, "Most likely. "



[12:29] Quicksilver says, "I require your assistance for a task."
[12:29] Calista Shimasu says, "Hey Sima, did you get Belial touched? Ascalon sure did."
[12:29] Tahldrig whispers something.
[12:29] Quicksilver asks, "I have seen that you have grown adept with the utilization of your father's work- Oh?"
[12:29] Sima Kang says, "... What do you mean? I feel fine."
[12:29] Calista Shimasu says, "Just asking."
[12:29] Quicksilver says, "... Hm."
[12:29] Sima shrugs.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:29] Calista Shimasu says, "Ascalon's already tried killing Eiphraem this morning."
[12:29] Calista Shimasu says, "Evening... night... I need sleep I guess."
[12:29] Sima Kang asks, "That probably didn't go too well for him, huh?"
[12:29] Quicksilver says, "That is just things that occur."
[12:29] Arlei Zanders says, "He didn't get the chance."
[12:29] Calista Shimasu says, "He's fine."
[12:30] Sima snickers.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[12:31] Quicksilver says, "I require the utilization of the delicate instrumentation of the Lighthouse to try to reattune Ascalon's energy to another star, or perhaps the sun itself."
[12:31] Quicksilver says, "That would be something I would require your assistance on."
[12:31] Sima Kang says, "Yikes... Last i did the sun someone went blind. Star might be a good idea."
[12:31] Quicksilver says, "Well."
[12:31] Quicksilver says, "We do need, ah."
[12:31] Quicksilver says, "Excess burning."
[12:32] Taiki asks, "Would he KNOW if he was Belial touched?"
[12:32] Quicksilver says, "Which is why I suggest it."
[12:32] Taiki says, "It does seem to affect people mentally."
[12:32] Calista Shimasu says, "Maybe not."
[12:32] Sima Kang says, "Mh... Suppose that's fair-- Who asked you? I feel fine."
[12:32] Sima Kang says, "Either way. I can help."
[12:33] Tahldrig whispers something.
[12:33] Quicksilver says, "... Tahldrig, can you purge him with the cleansing elixir of it's influence. At worst, some replacable resources are wasted. I need to assist Elyon, but if we can have the mana flowing through his circuits currently and making them scarlet to Tilia's currently numb circuits as a general mana-mapping, that would assist."
[12:33] Quicksilver asks, "Can I leave this task in your hands, Sima?"
[12:33] Sima Kang says, "Absolutely- Tethering's a breeze."
[12:33] Tahldrig says, "I can override the influence with my own mana."
[12:33] Quicksilver exclaims, "Excellent!"
[12:33] Tahldrig says, "Tethering is in no way a breeze Sima, so first, we'll be tending to your injury."
[12:34] Sima Kang says, "... What injury. I said I'm fine."
[12:34] Tahldrig says, "Yea, you're fine, yet you showed absolutely no reaction to me telling you I'm moving to live near Sors."
[12:34] Tahldrig says, "Which means.. not fine."
[12:34] Ascalon walked over fine, stopping just a few feet of Sima.
(Ascalon Zanders)

[12:34] Ascalon Zanders asks, "Hey, Sima remember when I got tossed like a stone?"
[12:34] Sima Kang says, "There are /literally/ a few mountain ranges. You could've meant either of them."
[12:34] Sima Kang asks, "Yeah! That was wild to see-- Who would've thought that little thing could toss you that far?"
[12:34] Calista Shimasu says, "Hmm."
[12:34] Calista Shimasu says, "I feel like I may have to tackle my cousin again."
[12:35] Tahldrig says, "Come to the clinic Sima. I'll make sure there's no injury."
[12:35] As soon as he'd spoken the man's fist reared back and immediatly rockted towards the Kang's face. Right towards the man's nose. Seems he really was INTENT on breaking it.

"Yeah, I saw your smile!"
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:35] Elyon Hirai says, "-"
[12:35] Quicksilver asks, "How have you been, Lady Shimasu?"
[12:35] Quicksilver seems completely unphased by the fistfight about to brew in the background.
(Quicksilver)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:36] The Kang's eyes widen as a fist comes rocketing towards his nose! He'd attempt to dip out of the way, his wings unfurling in response.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:37] Sima Kang asks, "I WAS SMILING BECAUSE I HAD EVIDENCE! WHAT THE FUCK!?"
[12:37] Arlei Zanders says, "What."
[12:37] Arlei Zanders says, "I tuned out."
[12:37] Ascalon smiled, wide as hell.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:38] Tahldrig says, "Oh look, you're injured, now we do have to go to the clinic to get your nose repaired, come on Sima."
[12:38] Ascalon Zanders asks, "Ahahaha! Know I'm smiling to, hurts don't it bastard!?"
[12:39] Sima Kang asks, "Dick!- I'm fine Tahl, holy shit. Just need to ice it... Is this what he's been doing all evening?"
[12:39] Tahldrig says, "I really don't care if you're fine, clinic."
[12:39] Pucnhed again! If it could just be iced he hadn't hit hard enough!
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:40] Tahldrig says, "Arlei, I suggest you restrain your husband before I do."
[12:40] Sima attempts to duck again!
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:40] Ascalon Zanders exclaims, "Now! It should be broken enough for the clinic!"
[12:40] Arlei Zanders says, "--H--hun. . "
[12:40] Arlei Zanders says, "PLease. . "
[12:40] Arlei Zanders says, "Please stop hurtin' Sima. . "
[12:41] Sima Kang says, "I. Don't. NEED. THE CLINIC. Lighthouse. NOW."
[12:41] Arlei looked over at Ascalon, biting her lip. Ascalon was. . terrifying like this.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:41] Ascalon drew his fist back again.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:41] Arlei reaches her hand out, attempting to catch Ascalons.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:41] Sima holds his nose, flinching a tad as he attempts to start moving towards the Lighthouse.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[12:51] Tahldrig has grown rather tired of this. She's not always the nice girl that she used to be.. There's too much hurt for her to always be nice.

Before Sima walked away, the scent of star dust filled the air as blue cosmic energies shot outwards from Tahldrig. There's a flicker of holy magic that forms within her palm.

Calista had already told Tahldrig about the meteorite they investigated, and how the crimson corruption is likely to be lingering within the Kang.

Tahldrig doesn't really bother taking Sima to the clinic though, he's proven to be resistant to that, and was just going to keep getting punched by Ascalon if he didn't go.. So she opts for the second option.

The holy mana filled palm swings over, shifting around and placing itself upon Sima's head, in which he'd feel the flood of Tahldrig's familiar mana begin to cascade over him. For now it would just be the holy magic, aiming to wash over him and heal the injured nose the boy had just received.

Sima is one of the few people Tahl has trusted, even if it has hurt her. If he wants to tussle with whatever is going on within his mind.. there's a reason for it.

"He said he's fine. Sima knows he can come to me for anything, and knows how much it hurts me if he doesn't. If Sima chooses to hurt me, instead of come to me, then that's his choice. It'll show just how important the friendship he and I have built over the last nineteen years really means to him."

As the manas fade away Tahldrig looks over to Ascalon. In the end, Tahl is still Sima's protector, his guardian in a sense. "You strike again Ascalon, and I will lay you down. You will remain uninjured, but you will eat dirt."
(Tahldrig)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:53] Ascalon his fist reactively attempted to shoot forward and strike again out of pure spite! Oh, wait Arlei was gripping it and she's like some kind of gorilla. Ascalon ended up not doing anything!
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:53] Sima Kang asks, "... Can we get moving now?"
[12:54] Tahldrig exclaims, "Mhm!"
[12:55] Arlei frowns heavily at Tahldrigs threat towards Ascalon.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:55] Sima Kang says, "Come on you two- Might be able to knock two... If not three birds in one stone."
[12:56] Arlei Zanders says, "Sounds good to me."
[12:56] Tahldrig whispers something.
[12:56] Arlei Zanders whispers: Doesn't matter.
[12:56] Tahldrig whispers something.
[12:56] Arlei Zanders whispers: No. It doesn't.
[12:56] Arlei Zanders whispers: If you're making him eat dirt, it'll cause harm.
[12:56] Tahldrig whispers something.
[12:56] Arlei Zanders says, "Yeah. And I'll deal with it."
[12:57] Tahldrig exclaims, "Mhm!"
[12:57] Tahldrig smiles.
(Tahldrig)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[12:57] Ascalon Zanders says, "Explain this tethering to me. You told me once Arlei but that was years ago."
[12:58] Arlei Zanders says, "It tethers you soul directly to a star, to my knowledge. Like, -directly-"
[12:58] Sima Kang says, "... Really did move out. Pity.-- A moment."
[13:04] Overall Sima did seem normal - moody, but normal. Strutting on towards the far off lever he'd hold a light hum, pulling it down to begin the procedure.

The 'light' of the Lighthouse thus begins its descent into the staging area. As the mechanical arm gradually brings the telescope down he'd turn towards the Zanders gathered, arms collecting themselves in the small of his back.

"Given you're apparently touched by Belial this... Will be a test for my theory! Perfect." Letting a happy huff part from him he'd let his gaze drift towards the telescope. To think he'd be holding this fort down while his father ran off with a Dhampir...

How fun.

"Eiphraem said either the sun or a star! Thus-- Any preference beyond the annoying reds or black spots? You're free to take a look unless... Arlei wants to select one for you."

Gesturing towards the eyepiece of the telescope he'd stand aside. He'd jump in should any damage be attempted at it.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:14] The look that Ascalon gaze Sima when he said 'A test for my theory!' could have been described as raw hatred. Though! It was probably just re-directed aggression for his father. After all the man had said something similar when he'd drained Ascalon's reika.

Though it was a passing emotion, the cursed cosmic shifting his emotions rapidly in fact. Perhaps that's a reason for his more erratic behavior. Though the Oscuri looked to Arlei at the questioning about which star they'd pick.

"You have waited decades for this. You will choose where our souls go to rest together." After he'd spoken he stepped to the side. Allowing Arlei access to the telescope. His focurs turning towards Sima.

"Explain to me how this tethering works. I've the intent for my soul to not pass onto the cycle. Rather, I wish to roam the
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:19] "-Roam the realms after I die. There's a lot of good that can be done and Nethradin that need beaten back down to their pit."

It seemed he wished to spent his eternity wardening the realm of spirits? An odd thing for someone of his former nature to wish to do.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:33] Arlei had seen this procedure done once before. It had been used on little Inari many years ago, when Erin had outed him as a Belialite. She was happy that it had finally been sorted out, but disgusted that it had taken a public accusation for Calael to move when Noel had promised her that it would be done sooner.

When the light filled the room, she didn't even flinch. As Ascalon looked over to her though, inviting her to pick a star, her face froze.

She'd been waiting until their visit to Chroma to pick one. She wanted to know what star he was bound to, so that the whole family could latch onto it. Apparently. . not.

With a low sigh, she stepped over and placed her eye against the telescope, slowly but surely scanning through the stars. There were millions of celestial objects radiating their light upon Eternia, but so many of them were crimson. Even pockets of darkness amongst the stellar horizon, ones which Arlei vehemently avoided. The Void was truly a decrepit place; she could 'feel' it just from gazing upon its influences in the materium.

Eventually, however, she came across one. A rather special one. It shone in the skies like a beacon, blaring a beautiful white across the telescopic array and therefore Arleis eyes. Its radiance caught her attention with just a glance, pulling her in, almost whispering to her. It was enticing, even moreso than the crimsons that lay around it. Pure, holy. Fitting of a celestial object.

"This one. . " she muttered, pulling her eyes away from the telescope before the light melted her retinas.

"Hun, why don't you take a look?" she asked, leaving the array pointed at the North Star.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:34] Tahldrig quietly makes her way up the steps to listen in on whatever may be happening now.
(Tahldrig)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:37] The Oscuri did take a moment to look into the telescope at what the Drakan had pointed out. It was odd seeing the sky through a device but it was interesting. He could actually make out the shapes in the sky. For a few moments he just stared at the star in the sky. Then it clicked what star it actually was.

The North Star.

"Ahahaha! You've chosen the star of Chroma Zanders! The star that most of our family are bound to no doubt."
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:41] A stare of raw hatred? It mattered little to the Kang in his current state. There was always research to be a done and, with one cursed by Belial, he'd be able to double down on his father's research. While a star could cleanse one that was cursed by a star he held another curiosity.

Could meteorites hold the charge of a celestial body?

Those light blues follow Arlei as Ascalon speaks. "Tethering, put simply, will tie you to the star we're to choose so that you can't be raised by a Necromancer. Along with this it's able to erase ties towards the Void and Belial's temptations." Drawing in a slow breath he'd shift his attention back towards the Redscuri.

"While I'm unsure if you'll be able to roam the realms after this... Well, it makes it a guarantee you won't be bound by slavery after death. The Lifestream itself should spit you out into the Spirit Realm at some point if I'm correct."

Yet he knew little of the Spirit Realm, but he was the expert of the procedure right? Surely what he said would be true. Popping forth he'd take a peek through the telescope himself as well, making sure there was nothing wrong with the selected star.

A white star-- The north star. How fitting.

Holding a smile he'd center it on the telescope's gaze before flicking the first switch on the telescope's body, locking it in place. Sima would then gesture towards the seat. "Once you're seated we'll get started-- I'll make it quick, then if Arlei wants to get tethered as well... We'll cover that."
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:48] Arlei nodded towards Sima, smiling warmly. Perhaps now, she wouldn't be as afraid to leave the house; necromancy, to her, was the most depraved thing that currently existed. Those already necromanced could be fixed, sure, and some worked towards fixing themselves. That's how it was back in Aurum. They had necromancy licenses, but the lone necromancer only used his shambling corpses in defence of either her honour, or the settlement. They were already risen; she knew that eventually they'd put him down and they would be free. Or, at least, she thought she knew; he'd ran off before they could put the axe to the decrepit monstrosity.

"Alright, sweetheart. Relax into the chair and hold onto my hand. It can burn quite a bit, but only for a moment. I'm here, don't worry." she whispered, planting a kiss upon his forehead.

Inari had screamed when the stars power had burnt away Belials taint. No doubt Ascalon would feel the same pain, though he may be able to stomach it. Inari was a bit of a wuss puss when it came to things like this. Ascalon was a hardened warrior of Azrael. She wasn't going to let him suffer it without her by his side, though.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[13:56] Should? Well, the Oscuri knew enough to know that no matter how fast the soul got to a star. Well it coundn't process it if the spirit remained. He'd intend for his spirit to remain behind strongly. So, if it was a safe-guard against Necromancy, the Void, and Belial? He really couldn't argue with it.

"Then I'll have it done. But, I'm not about to have a fit of child eating for Belial. Tether Arlei. She's been waiting for two deca-"

His thoughts where cut short rather quickly by the words of his wife. Well... He didn't see a reason not to go first. It would be painful no doubt, he'd heard from Vedran at-least. Though, pain at this point in the man's life was simply another excerise in living. A reminder that the world remained exactly as it'd been since it was crafted. Imperfect.

The man evenly moved to take a seat in the chair. Settling down into it with a sigh. He'd look over at those about. Then finally he settled upon Sima. "If my souls tethered and secure that's good. It'll help with what I've been working towards myself I believe. Perhaps even... Well, let's get the tethering started. I'm ready."

He didn't delve into how he thought his souls connection to the star of his father would strengthen his connection to the realm of spirits. It'd make his efforts towards fixing his own lines through making them a constant conduit into the realm of spirits that much more feasible.

There was a smile upon the man's face as his lines-flashed red. Sure they where going ot be purged and he allowed it. But that's something he wanted at the moment. And when you're blessed with freedom you should always do what you want.

(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:10] It was indeed going to burn if the Kang didn't toss his own flare into the equation. A pleased hum is held as Ascalon sits down in the chair, his right hand preemptively planting itself on the telescope's body.

Flicking the second switch activates the focusing lens on the far off edge of the telescope. What white light that emanated from the North star was now concentrated within the hull of the machinery. Each second that passed while the beam charged itself within the spire shard refractor within caused the room to silently bathe in a light bit of the star's light.

"Now! I'm going to try and cool this beam that'll be coming out with a bit of Cancri's chill. While I can't guarantee it'll work... Well, we'll hope that I can lessen that oncoming suffering."

"Try to keep your mouth closed, right? Didn't bring my sunglasses..." Pity that. White flecks of stardust begin to stem from the Kang's form as he prepares to filter out the majority of the cosmic mana to come. As ice begins to form about the Kang's own feet and the hand that lay atop the telescope--

The third switch is flicked without warning.

What was once a rather comfortable room now was bathed in not only a bright, white light but also a constant battle of temperatures. One moment it's sweltering, the next it's as if they were in the snowy plains. Sima's brow furrows as the North star's ambience flares about his form-- White, yellow, and blue flecks of stardust dancing about the Kang.

Starlight would begin to fill Ascalon's form, beginning its slow ascent up his eyes. Much like the room itself he'd feel hot one moment, cold the next, but what would draw his attention most would be the corruption from Belial's temptations. They burn up in a steam, rising out of the lines that once held Reika.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:15] Tahldrig had remained quiet, just listening the entire time so far, when Sima however decided to shift and test something, that piqued Tahldrig's interest. Her eyes fixate upon the Kang as ice began to form beneath his feet.

When the third switch was flipped she shields her eyes. There's no sense in being blinded by a white hot beam. Through her fingers though she could see a little of what was going on. More than that, she could feel the temperature fluxtuations within the air. So that's what the kang is doing, he's trying to make the procedure less painful for Ascalon.

A soft smile forms on her face, creating a few small dimples at the edges of the holy magus' lips. She's glad to see Sima stepping out of his comfort zone.

It's been years since she's witnessed Sima using the lighthouse, between Tahl and Sima not really talking much anymore, and their busy schedules she's not been in here in a very long time. It's nice to her to see that Sima has built up the confidence to utilize the lighthouse all on his own, but as always.. if Sima needs Tahl's help, she's right there.

No words are offered, she just waits for either a request of help, or the outcome.
(Tahldrig)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:42] This was something that was anathema to what he'd been as an Oscuri. To be tethered to a star? To be made immune to the effects of Necromancy? It was blasphemy, it was sacrilege, it was madness, it was what Azrael would want. He'd struggled with these thoughts for years after his black-lining, the screams of madness from his divine patron had began to fade but they where always there. Always something he knew waited and lurked at the corners of his mind.

Yet, he knew in his heart that of the Angels, of the Divine Beasts, of the gods and devils upon Eternia. Only Azrael would ever hold sway in his heart, only Azrael would hold sway over his soul. Yet, Azrael had failed in his own way. The words of Magdalen shook in the man's heart. A failed and broken angel. That was what she'd called him. It was true, just as the Oscuri which carried his blessings had became. Failed and broken creations meant to usher in a paradise and yet all they could do wasbring death and damnation.

Azrael had been a savior once, his glory bringing all of Humanity into an embrace that sought to right the worlds wrongs. That sought to fix what Kraus had failed to do. Once long ago another Oscuri had said if Kraus and Azrael had worked together they could have fixed everything. Though it was the nature of Angels to not understand compromise they where beings without the need of it. What they believed where so easy to be made manifest that it was second nature. Yet, Humanity wasn't the same as they, we struggled and fought and squabbled. Yet, we'd the potential to change the potential to rise from the darkest of places.

The depths of the Oscuri's crimes where a stain on his soul. He knew he'd fought for monsters to walk the earth. he knew he'd slain and maimed for a god that had became mad and forgotten who it was. Even with the pulse of the red-mana through his reika-lines he knew they weren't what would bring him absolution. No just another route of damnation for the man.

His mouth shut as he obeyed the Kang. This was the beginning of something greater. He didn't know what plans the Archon had to heal the ley-lines of his children but he'd decided already that he would heal his own. Through his own methods if he could. This was the perfect time to test his theory. The perfect chance to begin a tethering to the realm of his ancestors more greatly.

That's when it hit, the wave of cosmic energy. It struck like a mace to the skull. As the white-cosmic power of the North star struck him he'd feel the cursed mana in his shallow-reika-lines. Begin to be crushed and expelled. As he felt the shift of madness. There was an odd comfort in knowing that this Machine worked a bit like how he'd taken to healing curses himself. The red-crimson began to drain away, and with it came a sense of calm.

The pain? Sadly that was always there. Even ashis hand clenched upon the hand of Arlei. It wasn't painful, no he was stronger than to force his pain on her. Thoguh as the white-hot cosmic power coursed through him. He'd close his eyes, shutting off that avenue of light Thoguh something odd seemed to be happening throughout.

His ley-lines began to take on the color of that star. Blazing white-hot celestial mana coursed through his now cleansed reika-lines. It was a powerful feeling as the energy went through him. As he felt it there was an odd sense of familiarity. The power of the cosmos wasn't all that different form the power of the spirit realm as he'd felt it before. The Oscuri focused upon that similarity, pulling towards his own connection to the spirit realm.

That white-hot mana shifted slightly, taking on a silvery hue as the connection to the realm of spirits was made. A connection that would be made easier with the tethering of his soul to the star. It was as if what had been a forced connection only able to be achieved by the efforts of him and his father beyond. Was becoming easier, more permanent. Throughout the operation that coursing energy through his reika-lines would cause them to glow sharply.

Throughout the bluish-silvery mana of the realms of spirits began to lapse off the Zanders. What this connection would do to the process of tethering was unkown to the man. However, he was intent on making the steps needed to healing himself and perhaps aiding in the work for those other Oscuri who soguht to become more than they are.
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[14:55] He closed his eyes.

Inside the flurry of cosmic mana he'd let out a faint click of annoyance. What Ascalon had done had made this all the harder for him to gauge-- Kraus, he should really add in that they shouldn't close their eyes.

"Eyes. Open them unless you want to die."

Sima chattered through those jittering teeth of his. Yet he'd stare down at those filling lines of the Oscuri as well. Red gave way to black and then to a bluish-silver. It was such a quaint little thing to witness, and perhaps it could very well be the man's step towards his own redemption.

Perhaps he could alleviate more of those burns however. Crystals of ice begin to sprout from the ground underneath the telescope, supporting it as Cancri's chill continues to fill the air. Frost spreads like rampant weeds across the hull's metal, coating and linking it to the crystals underneath. It's a far heavier strain as his focus is torn between two tasks - Filtering the cosmic energy that rushed into the Zanders and invoking his star's own magic to chill the beam.

It takes a few seconds, but that heated beam of white starlight becomes slightly more manageable pain-wise. Should Ascalon obey the command of the Kang he'd watch for that white glow to reach up towards the crest of his eyes. Once it reached that point the telescope's third switch is flicked off, leaving Ascalon successfully tethered to the North star.

Should he not they'd be leaving their fate to chance.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:06] "I don't want to." As he spoke his eyes remained shut for a half-second it was almost like he'd meant that he didn't want to open them. Though, it was just a second, before his eye's opened themselves. Brilliant beacons of white-hot cosmic energy. His gaze shifted from Sima to Tahldrig, looking past the realms of cosmos and spirit before turning to Arlei.

Though, his focus immeidatly shiftd towards Sima. No doubt the man needed to see his eyes in order to do his work. Though, at the alleviation of the raw pain the Oscuri smiled widely. He felt fucking fantastic in that moment. Pain and all, it was as if he was with his reika again. No, he wasn't feeling the rush of aggression of murderous desire. He felt better than he'd ever felt in his life.

Then as the process was complete the man would collapse slightly into his chair. Those reika-lines continued to pulse with that
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:09] (Since the game ate half my emote forgive this weaker version.)

-Silvery-bluish mana, though as it did so the man would struggle with it. Trying to hold onto the power, and for that reason it escaped his grasp. Slowly draining away, a soft smile touched his lips as he shook his head. A mistake, but it was one he'd learn from.

Standing from his position he'd walk around the chair, still holding onto Arlei's hand. Ready to be there for them as they where for him into his process. Though he did look to Sima and offer an apologetic smile.

"Sorry for breaking your nose."
(Ascalon Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:16] Sima wanted to scream as Ascalon, at first, denies his request. The Zanders family truly held a morbid sense of humor as those eyes of the Oscuri finally open once more. Kraus, to think he could've killed someone under the Lighthouse's beam today... He wouldn't be able to look at--

Well, what did that matter? He had a better life ahead of him anyway.

With the cooled white beam of starlight finally dying out Sima takes a breather for himself. Mythril digits fumble about his jacket, drawing it close as those heat-laden runes activate within. Why he didn't think of getting those runes placed within them sooner was beyond his own understanding.

White flecks soon fall to yellow, blues following suit as Cancri's presence wasn't needed at that very moment. Turning his gaze towards Arlei he'd nod towards the chair before shifting his gaze towards Ascalon.

"Should've hit harder, honestly. Percy's hit me harder-- Apology accepted, however."
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:17] Tahldrig simply shook her head at Ascalon's words, a soft smile forming, her brother in law is always a pain. It seems that she wasn't needed here, which is good in it's own rights, Sima really can handle everything on his own these days.
(Tahldrig)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:35] Arlei stood there by his side, holding his hand tightly in hers. She knew what he was about to go through would be painful. She knew that it was the antithesis of all he'd done as an Oscuri. All he'd been born for, all he'd been indoctrinated for and, unfortunately, all he'd worked towards. Azraels perfected necromancy; the dream of a world free from death. A part of her understood Azraels intentions, but she knew they were wrong. He'd seen humanity perish under the weight of its own failures en-masse and he'd sought to stop it. Fought to stop it. In the end, he fell to his corruption, his wings blackening and him deciding necromancy was the best course for it.

Ascalon had been shown the wars, the fighting, the sights. Every single night for twenty eight years of his life. The amount of willpower it must take to jump this hurdle must be immense, but then, the Belialite 'freedom to do what you want' running through his rieka lines right now may have helped him make this decision greatly. He chose to do this whilst following that inherent tenet. Hopefully, he wouldn't regret the decision. Hopefully, this was just a nudge to a decision he was apprehensive to make.

As the starlight began to beam down upon her beloved, she felt the grip upon her hand become crushing. The drakanite could feel him restraining his strength, so as not to hold her, but it was still very, very noticeable. In return, her own grip tightened upon the man, offering him both the physical and emotional support he may have needed to push through with the procedure. After all, they were bonded at the hip, and soon by the soul.

His leylines drained of the crimson, filling up with an ethereal silvery hue. Was this what Ascalon had been planning? Was this due to his burgeoning connection to the spirit realm, or was he absorbing the cosmic radiance of the celestial North Star itself? She made a mental note to ask him about it later; all she wanted to do now was hold him through it.

And then, as he was asked to open his eyes. . he stubbornly refused. As the ice crystals shot up around him, so did Arleis spiritual flames. Orange turned to blue as her focus increased, 'latching' onto Ascalons own open connection, as well as the connection to the stars bridged to her by the power of the lighthouse itself. Her own draconic wings faded slightly, becoming a tad transluscent as. . something began to manifest.

A white glow began to form from a spot on each of her shoulders. Draconic markings, left by a spiritual guardian that had taken her under its wing many, many years ago, but had only just started to make its presence known. It seemed it had no intentions on fully manifesting itself right now, but it was pushing her. Pushing her forwards in the right direction. Whispering into her mind to use Ascalon as a bridge to delve into the land of the spirits. To make proper, physical contact with the beast. To prove her power to it. To prove her resolve. Her drive. Her motivations. She took that knowledge in stride, storing it into the back of her mind for later. The woman might have misinterpreted the whispers, however; that remained to be seen.

Finally, the light died down, revealing Ascalon in all of his spiritual majesty. And that majesty lasted about five seconds before he stood up and apologised for shattering the Kangs nose. Well, at least he remembered. And. . well, apologised? It wasn't often Ascalon apologised to anyone. Her eyebrows raised into her hairline in shock as she lowered herself down to the chair, still holding his hand in hers. She decided that it wasn't worth asking about right now.

There were more important matters at hand.
(Arlei Zanders)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[15:57] Right-- One last one and he'd most likely be done for the day! Chuckling through chattering teeth he'd let go of his jacket. Planting his right back onto the hull of the telescope he'd place a left digit once more on the third switch.

"Same instructions, Arlei-- Keep those eyes open, mouth shut, and hope to Kraus I can keep this beam nice and cool."

Without a second to lose that final switch is flicked! Once more the room is bathed in white light, the constant battle of heat versus a chill once more entering the realm about them. Sima's yellow ambience is once more engulfed by white and blue stardust, the melting ice freezing as frost claims the telescope again.

For Arlei she'd experience the same as Ascalon-- A constant shift of hot and cold wracking through their form as starlight fills them up. Inch by inch that white glow climbs their eyes. Sima watched all the while, waiting for the usual stopping point as Arlei was gradually being tethered to the North star.
(Sima Kang)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[16:23] Arlei settled into the large throne at the centre of the lighthouse, wiggling her rear and closing her eyes for a mere moment as she prepared herself for what was likely going to be a very unpleasant experience. Her flames had vanished, back from whence they came, replaced by flickering, rising embers of cyan energy, floating upwards from the two glowing dragon-claw marks left upon her shoulders.

The moment her eyes shot open, the loud thud of the switch echoed around the room, signalling the start of what could only be described as scorching cold pain.

Arleis teeth bit down, gritting against each other with enough pressure to shatter bones and sever fingers. Her entire body was wracked with both unforetold heat, and nerve-destroying cold. The back and forth felt like it went forever, but Arlei was keeping to Simas instructions. Her lips sealed over, even if the dragon wanted to do nothing but scream, shout, rip and tear. Her grip upon Ascalons hand was enough to turn a non-magis palm to naught but a mulchy, fleshy pulp; fortunately, he was a trained warrior and Oscuri. He could certainly take the damage without suffering much pain. She trusted him, just as he hopefully trusted her. He'd get her through this.

Even as the searing temperature changes reached her eyes, the dragoness fought with all of her willpower to keep those eyes staring forward, resisting the urge to shift in her seat. If she moved, the entire procedure could go horribly, horribly awry. Perhaps the entire nature of her soul could be altered and twisted. Maybe, during the process of her essence being tied to a star, both the tether and the natural drive for her divine vessel to return to a star could be destroyed. Maybe. . after death, there'd be nothing.

She barely had time to finish that train of thought before the pain began to soften. Her eye twitched as her body adjusted to the struggle, a part of her mind just closing itselfoff from the terrible, terrible scorching that ran through every fibre of her being. All she had to do was bear it for a moment longer. Just a little more, and she'd be fine. .

The iridescent energies of the North Star filled up her viridian orbs, masking their natural colour with its radiance. It looked almost divine; her eyes were emitting such a strong blinding white light, she wouldn't be surprised if weaker magi would have their corneas melted and their retinas scorched just by being in the vicinity; looking into the sun from a distance had nothing on this. This was akin to taking a microscope and putting it over the entity.

Hopefully, it didn't last long; Sima had to turn that switch back soon, right?

(Arlei Zanders)