Ikkaku - The attempted Execution of Perseus Kang (CoI)(6/13)

[18:41] “In family, we find purpose. In honor, we find guidance. In judgement, we find wisdom. In spirit, we find strength."

A sentence flows from the depths of the mask as it trembled with lip movements. Exuding seriousness, one would possibly confirm the Qilin was used to such situations.

Finding the truth. Being the epitome of the Emperor's will.

Two digits ascend, parallel to the blackened mask and supported by the rest of the fingers. Immediately, a blue luminescence orbitates Kotei, spreading and expanding in tremendous proportions! It is, beyond question, mana-- something the judge is proficient in controlling.

Subsequently, the radiance take form of a statue. A giant one, almost reaching the roof. The creation's eyes are covered with a bandage full of blood, representing the whole concept of Law, libras covering the structure. It stares down, apparently talking in unison to the Qilin.

"Perseus. Apparently, you don't lack benevolence. But for being unable to reach redemption, disrespecting the Emperor's holy decree and breaking the Law of the Colony...

...you are sentenced to death."

The booming voice echoes through all of the temporary tribunal, energy chains prepared to launch towards the man. However, before anything, the defendant has the right to express themselves.

"You may defend yourself for the purpose of the truth. Lies will not take you out of this situation, and you are beyond the act of pardon."

"But, listening to what you say, agreeing or not, is our obligation. Therefore, shout your last words, for the world to hear you. Enhance our knowledge and clear the path towards verity, Perseus."

Silent, after so much, it was time to hear.
(Kotei no Hosoku)
[18:41] He interrupts, briefly, but only for a simple request.

"Mythran. If you could comfort Coltrane, please. I don't want him interfering."
(Rayan L'Paix)
[18:42] Mythran turns giving Rayan a 'Eh?' look. Followed by a shrug.

"I don't understand."
(Mythran Yugao)
[18:43] Coltrane barely registers voices. He's just looking at Perseus... and crying. Absolutely BAWLING.
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[18:44] Canna glares as she looks over to Tsing.
(Canna)
[18:44] Shu whispers something.
[18:44] Shu whispers something.
[18:45] Shu whispers: Hello Canna, hello mom, hello dad. What is going on?
[18:45] Amane Faoleng whispers: Executions but I don't know who was all captured hm?...
[18:45] Amane Faoleng whispers: Seems a big brawl happened though.
[18:45] "Is there no way for me to live?"

To the almost motherly grasp, he takes on an almost childlike fear. It's a weak pleading, a small glimmer of hope -

"I was there.

I saw the carnage Tragedy wrought. I saw what the demons do. What Aetherius does. But Eiphraem - he cried. He pleaded with Tragedy. He begged her to stop the slaughter. He's - he's so close to human, and I - I'm so close to him, Rayan."

He's trembling with fear. He's trying, but - there's only so much that he can do. When Kotei's decree rings out -

he shakes. His breathing quickens. His head slowly turns, and his voice remains weak. Submissive. He's deferring, to that authority.

"I hate the fighting. I hate the war, but any of you would have killed me if I tried to help alongside you.

I died defending Gao Deyru. Please. If there's anything I can do, to buy my life - To earn the medal I wear. To redeem the face I've marred. You reached a verdict without hearing me, first. Is there anything? Is my crime unforgivable?"

But he cannot close his eyes, as he looks upon Kotei. He cannot.

"I want to do good with my life. It's all I have ever asked for."
(Perseus)
[18:47] Midia's reading a large volume by the tribunal and throne while a massive number of people begins to gather and prepare themselves inside the room.

Infact, the large gathering had begun to gather diverse onlookers potentially not even involved in the proceedure.

Halting her read, she begins to scan the crowd in a slow pace untill her eyes narrowed on a few most peculiar occurances. Two dead, one alive the other laying there. A slow, but deliberate scan indicates that some of them may've been people she knew or knows- Infact, her eyes settle on Nerzan, fixating a curious gaze on the undead she'd begin to realise it was not her past friend's living body, but a shell.

The twisted skin, rot, the cold and petrifications, the cracks over his skin and the mismanagement of the tissue and their lack of recovery.

Everything pointed to the fact that Perseus's body was not quite alive, and yet she stood, listening to the Qilin's word.

Moving forth, she examines the crowd and waits, her fingers closing the book and pulling it inside her long sleeves as she stands by silently.

Jade Green eyes through a white mask with red markings, waiting for the events to unfold she would clear her throat and come forth toward the Qilin, folding her arms within her sleeves.
(Midia Di Maria)
[18:47] Shu looks on in confusion
(Shu)
[18:47] Shu before letting out a sigh
(Shu)
[18:48] Canna whispers: That.. is Nerzan Shu... the one who stole his body anyway.. th e undead I mentioned.
[18:48] Midia Di Maria whispers something.
[18:48] Shu whispers: Looks like I am not deemed fit to be included in the judgements as well.
[18:48] Shu whispers: I see Canna.
[18:49] Ikkaku's sky blue eyes watch the scene unfolding without a flinch. If there is disagreement within them it is hidden, but more then likely there is none. Arms cross over the Regent's chest, merely watching the proceedings with interest.
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[18:49] Shu whispers: At least Nezran will not have his body defiled any longer.
[18:50] There's peace. Quiet, his tone steady, even amid the sobs and threatening energy that loomed in the air. His heroic aura never fades, never wavers, his gaze kind and gentle upon the undead who had stolen Nerzan's body.

"There is potential." Rayan remarked quietly. "I do not want to budge from allowing undeath. But if what you say is true, if your pleas hold meaning-- then they can mean much for the war."

His gaze looked up, staring into the mask of the Qilin.

"If you can get Crafthold to turn against Tragedy, perhaps there is a way for you to continue living. You had died for us once. You should not have been brought back.

But I doubt it is truly your fault. You just wanted to protect and serve. It's a story of a hero who has fallen to the wrong side."


(Rayan L'Paix)
[18:51] Canna whispers: Also, Violet has supposedly broken a law, but they will not tell us what, so she has been collared, and drank a potion that poisoned her.
[18:51] Shu exclaims, "WHAT!"
[18:51] Perseus says, "We were attempting to use the spires to purify me. To repair my soul. I -"
[18:51] Hinata holds a gauntleted hand to his face, pinching the bridge of his nose.
(Hinata Yukishiro)
[18:51] Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "...You."
[18:51] Perseus says, "I know that undeath is a curse. It was never - it was never a blessing, for me. I was so far from human, for so long."
[18:51] Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "...You used someone's image."
[18:51] Canna says, "Rayan.. that is not Nerzan.."
[18:52] Shu whispers: Where is she?
[18:52] Arie Hon says, "It's an undead..."
[18:52] Arie Hon says, "It's corrupt..."
[18:52] It was such a nice morning. The silly games he played with Amane and Violet last night brought a smile to his face as he entered the fort. He still hadn't had breakfast - what should it be? Eggs and toast? Perhaps some imported sausages, he did enj-

Perseus.

Perseus?

Perseus?!

No no no no no no NO! This was all wrong! This wasn't supposed to happen! At all! EVER! Everything he'd worked for - every promise he'd made - every step he took down the path of mediation. All of it fell away.

Tears immediately began to stream down his face, but his expression didn't change. Shock. Horror. His staff was both light as a feather and heavy as nyeshk in his grip.

"P-... Perseus? What-"

Disregarding Rayan's words entirely he was at Perseus' side at once, quickly looking over his form. Damaged. Still petrifying. Scared.

"Everything he said is true. All of it. You know I do not lie - listen to me, now more than ever!"
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[18:52] Arie Hon says, "Execute it Rayan."
[18:52] Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "Purify or not, you ejected Nerzan from his vessel. Someone trying to do good for this land."
[18:52] Perseus says, "I am a person, stranger. Please."
[18:53] Shu whispers: Where is violet?
[18:53] Solace twists around, kneeling soon there after to lay Lucan's body on the ground. It seems her tiny arms can no longer bare the weight.
(Solace Huitzilopochtli)
[18:53] Canna whispers: mom, dad, do you know where Violet is right now?
[18:53] Perseus says, "I'm sorry for your friend's death. From what others have told me - he was a good man. Respectable. I hope that we would have been friends."
[18:53] Perseus says, "... he and I never met."
[18:53] Arie Hon says, "Can we not start some..."
[18:53] Arie Hon asks, "Undeads are people too?"
[18:53] Rayan L'Paix says, "Arie. We treat everyone with respect on a trial."
[18:53] Rayan L'Paix says, "It is the last gift we can give to them."
[18:54] Amane Faoleng whispers: Upstairs being treated, soon to be on trial...
[18:54] Rha'kharo says, "The best gift, you can give an undead, is freedom from it's prison."
[18:54] Canna whispers: (oh goodness lucan is dead)
[18:54] Rha'kharo says, "Execute.."
[18:54] Coltrane Brubeck says, "P-Perseus."
[18:54] Coltrane Brubeck exclaims, "NO!"
[18:54] Arie Hon says, "Let the stars purify the soul."
[18:54] Coltrane Brubeck says, "He is NOT a prisoner."
[18:55] Canna whispers: would you like to come with me Shu, I can take you to her.
[18:55] " … Dh- "

She's weak. She can barely move, folded down onto her knees, throat hurting, body tense. She grits her teeth, and trues to turn. The chains feel... so heavy. Her own flesh feels like chains further.

" Don't. Don't. Don't. Don't.... "

It makes little sense, as she cannot even turn herself, to see Perseus, but she's.

So tired. So weak. But Tragedy is the only one to give her chance, give hope. The only one to rest a hand on her, make her feel like she was improving, growing, worth anything, given a purpose and a reason to continue.

She wants to scream at Perseus. But there's no breath in her lungs. She can only mutter it over and over again. Just die. Don't betray her. Anything.

Just die with her.
(Qiao)
[18:56] Shu whispers: I would, I am not needed here.
[18:58] Midia would retract herself slightly, and speak in a more levelled tone see'ing as the Qilin had other preoccuptations and the crowd had begun to grow alarmed she'd simply speak up to give her own stance and an alternative to the various visions currently gripping the crowd.

"Perhaps, you may desire to enact a ritual, to let his soul pass on and its spirit return with the goal to amend for their sin.

This practice, many have done and I've met doing. Though the body shall be burnt, this would give the soul a chance to rest without the torments of their failure, yes?"

She bows to the Qilin, sticking to it all the way through untill anyone would acknowledge her. Signaling that she will not interrupt any further and that her desire to do so was not there.

She had spoken, and given her idea, there was only fate to complete the rest now.
(Midia Di Maria)
[19:03] "He attacked our home. Came to Little Mame." Her lips part a tad bit as she squints in the Neries' direction. Her eyes move around the room.

"It was not Lucan's. It was not this person's. It was ours. A place Lapis and I maintained and remained in isolation for to make sure it didn't rot to time." Her teeth grit together in her agitation.

"What good were you doing there?"

The demand is stringent and clear. "You came to conquer, you came to attack. You hate this war? Don't lie, because those actions only perpetuated it." Her teeth sink into her lower lip all the while as she dips her gaze toward the body on the floor. "No one wants to die, no. But you die as a warrior, in a battle that didn't need to happen. There's no greater honor than that, is there? Even if you are of the dead, you will be at rest. Sins of snatching bodies, using divinity to purify yourself, all the sort..." Lips lay in a harsh line, head shaking all the while.

"Accept. With grace. The time is over. It's time for you to rest now."
(Solace Huitzilopochtli)
[19:04] It's the only reply he can offer to Solace, as the judgment begins to fall. As the burden, as the weight - falls upon his head.

"I came because someone I cared about was harmed, stranger. I'm sorry."
(Perseus)
[19:05] Tao glared back at Solace. Goodness, where did this greyskin stand? It seemed he was willing to make enemies of everyone.

"That wasn't the first time he came to Little Mame. Years ago, he came because I asked. He came because the woman I loved was threatened. He is not a warrior, he is not undead, he is my friend, he is my brother, I love him, and he is one of the very best this world has to offer."
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[19:06] Arie Hon asks, "He is not undead?"
[19:07] Lapis would only kneel down a tiny bit, arms reaching out to encircle around the scorched man's waist-- hoisting Lucan's body up all the while. Small, quiet steps are taken in Arie's direction this time around.
(Lapis Valerius)
[19:08] Lapis Valerius whispers something.
[19:08] Arie Hon whispers something.
[19:09] Lapis nodding a tiny bit-- perhaps mostly to himself. the Valerius would trudge along, slowly making his way out.
(Lapis Valerius)
[19:09] " … Yer. People. Tried to arrest me. Then. Attacked me. While I was just minin'. Ya filthy goddamned liar. That's what started. All this shit. "

She spits her venom into the ground, head hanging, eyes trained on nothing.

Her chest is heavy. Words are hard. She can't manage much more than that.
(Qiao)
[19:09] Amane would give a sudden blink at seeing what Lapis was carrying before sprinting, blowing past Ikkaku and Hinata.
(Amane Faoleng)
[19:10] "Your words reach my heart, undead. While being trained as a Qilin, a specialist in war, I have heard a phrase."

"If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle."

"If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat."

A thumb presses against the back of the blackened mask, descending. Pale features, a face crafted by divine power and for divine will. His semblance doesn't diverge from the common stoic person. Rational, but also the embodiment of the Emperor's will. Thus, values like accepting the enemy's will happen.

Despite that, Kotei has a duty. One to never flee from him.

"Ignorance will lead us to our defeat. Thus, paraphrasing our leader, the veredict is transparent to the public."

"While mistakes have been made, the people have Sheng, when being able to rule themselves with their own voices, have enjoyed the peace that comes with allowing each and every neighbour to have their say in the future of our nation. Perseus, you have been killed as a loyalist, and brought back as a corrupted soul."

"The Emperor has made a decision to place himself above the humanity, despite the immense humility treading his figure. Thus, his wings lost their special color-- a sacrifice for us. Likewise, you have accepted the contract of being an undead and trying to finish what you are commonly not able to end."

"Therefore, you placed yourself above the humanity. You broke the common cycle of death, by the likes of Azrael. Nobility comes from your mouth, but the sinful flame was forged. And you must receive the consequence of it."

"Perseus. By accepting a necromancer, you have forfeit the right to live. You will be executed by Rayan, and your body will be burned by the holy flames of The Illuminated.

Ethereal chains forcefully pull the guilty to his knees, aimed towards the blue-haired man, as the Qilin added once again.

"I thank you for your cooperation. The truth is called, and the judgement is over. We learn more from the enemy, and more of ourselves. We create hope as a colony to strive a better future."
(Kotei no Hosoku)
[19:10] Aziza, rather off to the side, not a citizen, speaks up. Eventually.

"Out of all of your enemies, Peace- er, Perseus is probably the least worthy of being executed. He's worked for peace even among those who don't deserve it. Has he ever even fought in the wars?"

There's a brief, slow sigh and she stares down at her hands, frowning slightly.

"I hope you find peace in the next life, then."
(Aziza Maru)
[19:11] Aziza Maru says, "And say hi to Etsy for me."
[19:11] He sighed quietly, glancing around the room. Quite a crowd had gathered. Rather than help with the situation and be silent, those that chipped in when they weren't even supposed to were so much as short of being helpful. Spouting nonsense about sparing the undead. This irritated Rha'kharo to the highest degree. Speaking out loud, though it was more intended towards Coltraine.

"Okay, so this didn't need to be said outloud, but apparently it now does. Why are you even here? Why are you defending the 'undead'"

He finished, taking in a deep breath as he reached into his hoodie, pinching the bridge of his nose as he muttered to himself.

"I'm not even mad. I'm not mad. I should have expected this. I'm just..highly disappointed. Now if you can't handle this. Leave. Just..leave. This isn't a charity. It's an execution. Shut up or pack up."

A careful glance was given towards Ikkaku before looking at Arie. Just as he was about to speak towards the commander, the Qilin would give his final say.
(Rha'kharo)
[19:12] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[19:12] Arie Hon whispers something.
[19:12] Ikkaku Ukitake says, "<Silently gives a nod towards this outcome>"
[19:13] Mythran Yugao whispers: Lord Regent... Uh do I have to go on trial...?
[19:13] Ikkaku Ukitake whispers: Did you fight for Gaiar?
[19:13] Mythran Yugao whispers: No.
[19:14] Mythran Yugao whispers: I helped capture these guys just now. I took the cosmic user's arm.
[19:14] Ikkaku Ukitake whispers: So long as you did not commit high treason, you will not be executed. I know not entirely of crimes but only that or the murder of the Ardent civilians calls for executin.
[19:15] Ikkaku Ukitake whispers: I'll be speaking with Kotei about this.
[19:16] Ikkaku Ukitake whispers: Dependding on severity of crime, pardon may be within the possiblity for you, especailly given this situation.
[19:17] Canna whispers: Why won't anybody tell me what Violets crimes have been... seems everyone knows except for me..
[19:18] Ikkaku Ukitake whispers: I am unaware of the crime. Amane is unaware of the crime. I intend to hear what it is.
[19:18] Canna whispers: Somehow Esther and Akio know..
[19:19] Canna whispers: only thing I know she's done, has sent word to Zaruma letting him know that she is safe and not being treated poorly, Tsing over there deliverd the word personally.
[19:27] As judgment falls, Perseus - the undead - falls silent. Not long after, he's brought to his knees, in front of Rayan L'Paix. His eyes -

bereft of pupils, and gleaming with a brilliant light, as they look into Rayan's own. His arm falls to his knee.

"But you're wrong, Qilin." He's unmoving. Defeated, yes, but his voice fills with a last bit of worldly resolve. A blue light begins to fill those eyes, pushing the necromantic energies away.

It's the light of the moon - the true force that holds this soul together.

"I didn't accept my necromancer. If that's your judgment, and that's what your judgment is founded upon - then your judgment is flawed."

Tears begin streaming down his face, but he remains where he's been brought to his knees. Wet mud drips from his mouth - one of the signsof his decay. Even still, however, the powerful will of this undead resounds throughout his dissipating voice. To what sounds like his last breaths, he regales his tale with undying strength.

"I was violated, by undeath. I became something less than human, chained to someone else's soul.

I broke my chains, with the power of the Spires. I became human again. I became a person - I became myself, even if I wore someone's face. I did what was necessary to keep myself alive, and to repair the damage done to me.

If the crime you execute me for is existence, for accepting a necromancer's chains - then you murder a man. That stain will remain on your soul, until the day that you die."

Despite his refusal of the verdict -

he leans up, and stares Rayan in the eyes.

"This man is taking that murder for you. Thank him, when I'm gone. I do not know my name. But the one that I have chosen is Perseus Kang."

His lungs empty. His breathing stops. His heartbeat is nearly nonexistent. He's impossibly, deathly still, as he stares onward.
(Perseus)
[19:27] Canna whispers: Dad.. just so you know.. I want the person in Nerzan's body to die... but I know that if we kill him.. we lose all chances of Eiphraem turning against Tragedy.. he will hate us..
[19:28] "NO!"

This was it. This was the moment twenty-four years had been building towards. Everything he had done, every road walked, every blade forged, every friendship made. This was it.

"You do not know your enemy. If you kill Perseus here and now, you are consigning every single soul in Tongyishan to death. I am the closest thing you have to an expert on Necromancy, and you are throwing that away to be even more bloodthirsty than the Archons! Think about what you are doing."

Even Coltrane's plan wasn't clear - his head was a litany of reasons why this should not go ahead, but he had no time... Rha'kharo's words go completely ignored - it's a masterful display, really. Another thing hislife has been building towards - ignoring the scathing remarks of the ignorant.

"If you know yourself but not he enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. Know your enemy, Qilin. Let me tell you of his nature, his deeds, his soul. Let me tell you the cost of the two paths before you. You've barely just arrived, and there is much you need to know before you pass such a judgement."

"Please. Just give me time!"

Despite the peace in his words, Coltrane is ready for action. His eyes dart between Rayan and Perseus... then find the cold mask of Ikkaku. His pale greens are a silent plea for help, begging, overflowing with those unnatural metallic tears of the neries.

It's quite unusual that he can be so rational and clear while crying his eyes out. Must have had a lot of practice.
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[19:28] Coltrane goes Super-Neries.
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[19:28] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:29] Maxwell whispers something.
[19:30] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:31] Qiao whispers something.
[19:31] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[19:31] Qiao whispers something.
[19:31] Qiao whispers something.
[19:31] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[19:32] Arie Hon whispers something.
[19:32] Maxwell whispers something.
[19:32] Hinata Yukishiro whispers: Pragmatics and morality. They seldom go hand in hand.
[19:32] He knew. Oh, Perseus knew. And the second Rayan realized that the undead understood why the Elsyrean had asked to be the one to kill him-- he cracked. Tears streamed down his cheeks, cascading down reddened features like a waterfall. But he remained still, sturdy, his hand reaching out to form an icicle sharpened to a point.

"It's not your fault. I don't want to kill you. I don't want to take another life. I see something in you that's much better than Delane, or Idris, or Bune, or Noda... or a-anyone else who has stepped before the judgement of Order."

A sharp inhale. "But you know what you've done. You've taken divine power for your own needs. To stoop down to such selfishness-- to try and become human again instead of accepting the redemption of the stars.

It's unforgivable. If the positions were reversed, I would expect for you to do the same."

He gently hums a verse for a few moments, gaze flickering towards Coltrane, then to Solace, then back to Perseus. Goldens did not stare at the undead with malice or harm. The only negativity that lingered was sorrow.

"I ask of you, Perseus Kang-- do you have any final requests before you are executed?"
(Rayan L'Paix)
[19:33] Arie Hon says, "Thought I would need to do it myself..."
[19:33] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:33] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[19:33] Rha'kharo says, "Read my mind huh Arie."
[19:33] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[19:33] Ikkaku Ukitake says, "I would have more faith in Officer Rayan's resolve."
[19:33] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[19:33] Kotei no Hosoku says, "There is a reason he was asked to be the one dealing the final blow."
[19:33] Maxwell whispers something.
[19:34] Rayan L'Paix says, "I've killed my own lover with these hands. I do not falter."
[19:34] Kotei no Hosoku says, "I believe it will be a method of learning. Not a test of obediency."
[19:35] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:38] Maxwell whispers something.
[19:39] Maxwell whispers something.
[19:40] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:42] Midia watches, an annoyed sigh escaping her lips, but despite this no more voice or noise would come from her as she straightens herself up.

Anyone nearby, could possibly understand she's not satisfied with the outcome from her reaction, but nevertheless does not proceed to stop it.

As a matter of fact, she didn't entirely look like she'd desire to stop it see'ing as most of the people here were against the proceedure and Coltrane was standing in a mist of rage and defiance over the verdict.

Judging the options, she would take a long moment, listening to the speeches before speaking lightly, her voice gently echoing through the gap between her face and mask in a slightly muffled tone before bearing forth to meet the crowd.

"Birth, life, death, rebirth... Souls travels through shells from one body to the next, their memories erased through a regretful process to cleanse their sins, perhaps.

I understand your desire, but those standing here are blind to your goals and necessities, Perseus Kang.

This judging, is wasteful, for their mind was already set before the guilty's arrival, to kill without wishing to mend.

I offered you alternative, for them to find peace and help us, but you discarded them. Much like before, you waste opportunities like you waste breath. This is, but a funeral."

She sighs, folding her arms with the book still within her hands, hiding them within her sleeves with no expressions or words to express further on the situation.
(Midia Di Maria)
[19:50] For a moment, he simply remains as he is. Silent. Motionless, as he stares up into Rayan's eyes. All of a sudden, however, he draws in a long, deep breath.

He lets it out at first, as a whisper.

"Do you know that I never killed anyone, in all my years?"

Another breath. Just barely a breath, but he forces himself to take in more air. The emotion in his eyes is disbelief. The expression on his face - despair.

"I've done everything. Everything, to convince you all that I'm human. To forge my broken soul into that of a person again.

I've done this for nearly thirty years. I've saved lives. I've resolved conflict. I've done my best to be a human voice in the Archon's ear."

And yet - a last flash of what looks like anger, as his eyes finally run dry.

"And the last thing that you tell me is that I should have killed myself?"

And yet - a last flash, of what looks like anger, before his eyes finally run dry. As all emotion drains from his face, and as his breathing slows.

"I have two final requests.

My crime was living. My first request is for you to judge yourself as harshly as you all have judged me.

If I'm a monster, something undeserving of the life that I have sacrificed so much to gain -

in seeking justice, you've all made yourself something worse than monsters. Something less than human. You've been tainted by war with the demons. You've become everything that you hate.

My life has never been yours to judge. My second request is that you finally make me a murderer, Rayan L'Paix. Allow me to kill myself. Allow meto right the wrongs done to me, by both my necromancer, and by all of you. Give me the power to end my life, just as I used my power to sustain it.

As my last action, I'll protect you from the stain of murder on your soul."

He remembers to blink.

"Is that satisfactory?"
(Perseus)
[19:51] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[19:51] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[19:51] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:52] Akio Koyanagi whispers something.
[19:55] Hiromi Naoko whispers something.
[19:57] "All are judged as equals. My veredict remains. We have pursued the truth, and learned with you. And your wish shall be granted, if Rayan believes it is necessary. A symbol of manhood based on values. After all, death, which is unique and beyond anything else that can be demanded or given? Truly, an honor to end yourself before enemies."

Final sentences escape the almost static lips as his face is reduced to neutrality again-- hidden behind a black fox mask. Nothing else comes out from him, as silence becomes a blessing yet again.

The gigantic energy statue behind him finally commences to fade away, copious amounts of energy retracting back to Kotei's body. "May your next life be prosperous."
(Kotei no Hosoku)
[19:57] Maxwell whispers something.
[19:59] Coltrane is amazed - astounded. They know so little about him, yet they think they're in a position to judge his life?

"Listen to me! You know nothing about him! Give me time, one day. That's all I ask! Let me tell you of his life, his deeds, the nature of his existence. If you still think this is justice, then it can be metered out then, but not while you are still ignorant!"

The tears continue to flow.
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[20:02] His gaze looks around the room. There's Coltrane, who would perhaps use this advantage to sweep the undead away. But the others-- their faces behind masks both real and imaginary judging the Peacekeeper for what he was. Not what he had done. Even if the Neries interfered-- it would only bring more pain.

It felt surreal, his negative emotions only soothed by the presence of the world's melody.

"You died to protect those you loved. For that, I thank you."

A simple, slight head bob would be his reply. The icicle in his hand faded away, water dripping down his arm. Shakily, the Elsyrean would lean forward-- a light, gentle kiss placed on the forehead of the faux Nerzan.

Strength returned to the Sarradian's body, the threads of gold intertwining with the wounds sustained from the battle. Even the stub of his arm would seal up, water washing away the grime and dirt.

"I hope you find peace in the stars, Perseus Kang."
(Rayan L'Paix)
[20:04] Sael whispers something.
[20:05] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[20:06] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:06] Qiao whispers something.
[20:06] Qiao whispers something.
[20:07] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[20:07] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:07] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[20:07] Qiao whispers something.
[20:08] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[20:08] Qiao whispers something.
[20:08] Qiao whispers something.
[20:08] Qiao whispers something.
[20:11] Kotei no Hosoku whispers something.
[20:12] Iku stares at the undead hungrily. The anguil was wondering what was going on. He had watched the fight come to and end seeing lucan die it was a gruesome scene. He watches as they pin up Perseus ready to execute him. The siren stares as his stomach growls.
(Iku)
[20:13] Qiao whispers something.
[20:13] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] It's strange -

to receive that last kiss. He wishes - he wishes that it was someone else. He wishes that he could erase it all, and wake up in his bed back home.

As he rises to his feet, he smiles. Genuinely - gratefully, as stony scales drop from his face. With the arm he has remaining, he puts his hand upon Rayan's shoulder.

The other wound, of course, hasn't healed - but the edges of his shoulder, visible in his armor, have been solidified into stone.

"Does it have to be here?"

He asks it with all the joy that he can muster - which isn't much. He's never been one to dwell on the negative, and this moment isn't going to be any different.

If he dies, so what?

"I've faced the cold of oblivion once before. I know that its touch soothes all wounds, regardless of the way that a soul passes on.

Death is not what I fear. What I fear, is..."

His smile contorts into something between joy and sorrow, as he chokes tears back. His eyes grow wet again, as they begin pouring down dried mud, turning it instead into salty clay.

"What I fear is the fate of those I leave behind."

He slowly inhales, with staggered breaths filling his lungs - before allowing anxiety to drizzle out in waves.

"All the same - this final 'kindness,' if it can be called that; is there a more tranquil place I can pass on, rather than these palace halls?

I'm sorry to ask so much."
(Perseus)
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Kotei no Hosoku whispers something.
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] Kotei no Hosoku whispers something.
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] Kotei no Hosoku whispers something.
[20:14] Rayan L'Paix says, "--- There may be one place. We have dealt with this sort of execution before, and Ikkaku had taken her to a private room."
[20:14] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:14] Qiao whispers something.
[20:15] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[20:15] Rayan looks over at the Regent.
(Rayan L'Paix)
[20:15] Midia Di Maria says, "..."
[20:15] Arie Hon says, "Rayan"
[20:15] Arie Hon says, "Do it here..."
[20:15] Arie Hon says, "It could be planning something..."
[20:15] Perseus says, "I -... I always revered the moon. I thought that she was a beautiful symbol of the light, beset by darkness, with the sun reflecting off of her surface."
[20:15] Rayan L'Paix says, "He."
[20:15] Rayan L'Paix says, "Not it."
[20:15] Ikkaku Ukitake says, "I believe said private room is in use. However; If Kotei or myself supervises there may be another room used."
[20:15] Coltrane Brubeck says, "Ikkaku."
[20:15] Perseus says, "I thought that she represented me."
[20:16] Perseus asks, "Can I die underneath the moon?"
[20:16] Rayan L'Paix says, "I will bring Ikkaku and others with me, and if you attempt to flee-- all of your wishes will be revoked."
[20:16] Rayan L'Paix asks, "Do you understan this, Perseus?"
[20:16] Sael whispers something.
[20:16] Sael whispers something.
[20:16] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:17] Rha'kharo whispers something.
[20:17] Arie Hon asks, "So how many last wishes did we ask already?"
[20:17] Qiao whispers something.
[20:17] Perseus asks, "Have I made any requests that pertain to anyone other than myself?"
[20:17] Qiao whispers something.
[20:17] Qiao whispers something.
[20:18] Ikkaku Ukitake says, "I will let the choice reside with Kotei. I am satisfied with the way this trial has progressed."
[20:18] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: Ikkaku, don't do this.
[20:18] Kotei no Hosoku says, "Choosing a location is unnecessary."
[20:19] Perseus inhales. Slowly. Before exhaling - gently. Softly. Evidently, it's taking effort to keep himself together.
(Perseus)
[20:19] Kotei no Hosoku says, "You may do it whenever you please."
[20:19] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: Everything I've done. EVERY life I have saved.
[20:19] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: If it means ANYTHING.
[20:19] The Elsyrean grabs Perseus by the hand. His own palm is cool to the touch, like the backside of a pillow.

"Let us go outside, then. In front of the fortress, or would you prefer the shrines?" It seemed more like the invitation to a date rather than the looming threat of death.
(Rayan L'Paix)
[20:20] Qiao whispers something.
[20:20] Qiao whispers something.
[20:20] Qiao whispers something.
[20:20] Perseus asks, "Are the shrines to Jiuweihu?"
[20:20] Rayan L'Paix says, "They are Suha's."
[20:20] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: I love this man. Please don't throw his life away on a whim.
[20:20] Rayan L'Paix says, "So, presumbly so."
[20:20] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:20] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:20] Rayan L'Paix says, "It is the highest peak in all of Agartha-- it kisses the night sky."
[20:20] Qiao whispers something.
[20:20] Qiao whispers something.
[20:21] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: Ikkaku, look at me!
[20:21] Ikkaku Ukitake says, "Coltrane; I am abstaining from this trial. I am merely here to observe and see the outcome. "
[20:21] Qiao whispers something.
[20:21] Perseus considers, for awhile, with his hand upon Rayan's shoulder. He slowly blinks - bringing his eyelids down to meet.
(Perseus)
[20:21] Qiao shivers.
(Qiao)
[20:21] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: You CANNOT abstain. This is not something you can stand idly by and observe!
[20:21] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: This is it.
[20:21] Perseus says, "I think that place will suffice."
[20:22] Rayan L'Paix says, "Let us go, then."
[20:22] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: This is everything my life-
[20:22] Kotei no Hosoku whispers something.
[20:23] Qiao whispers something.
[20:23] Kotei no Hosoku whispers something.
[20:23] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: This is the biggest mistake you will ever make. PLEASE believe me when I say that.
[20:23] Qiao whispers something.
[20:23] Rha'kharo says, "Kirigaya."
[20:23] Rha'kharo says, "Follow them. Just in case.."
[20:23] Kurochi Kirigaya says, "Yes Sir."
[20:23] Rha'kharo says, "Something goes wrong."
[20:24] Rayan L'Paix says, "Ikkaku, Mythran."
[20:24] Rayan L'Paix says, "Please come with me."
[20:24] Ikkaku Ukitake says, "<They merely nod> I'll oversee."
[20:24] Arie Hon whispers something.
[20:30] The group is lead up the mountain's slopes, a harsh climb upwards. Once, this had been the first inn upon Agartha's land, home to an eccentric man and his frog demon friend. Now, lanterns hang above the dual shrines, blowing gently in the winds.

His Harmonic Attunement remains, as well as his calm and polite demeanor. Gently guiding the undead to the edge, Perseus would be presented with the personal mediation spot of the Order magi of Jianghu's people.

It was almost... ironic, to see the body of Mercy resting upon the place he had desperately attempted to achieve.

"I'm guessing you would like to use your sword." He remarked. "You are allowed to ask me to do it, if you cannot bring yourself to do so, Perseus."
(Rayan L'Paix)
[20:32] Kurochi Kirigaya whispers: (Ikkaku?)
[20:33] Ikkaku Ukitake whispers: (yes?
[20:36] Iku did as Mythran had asked him and got an offering of Sake to pour out for the fallen. Iku had mixed feelings about doing so, he wantd to drink the beverage, not pour it out. His stomach growls and he pops seven hard boiled eggs into his mouth.
(Iku)
[20:36] Midia follows, but beneath her mask is a growing frown. Annoyance perhaps even.

The person before her was told to go for an holy ground, a place of marriage, ceremony and peace to be executed non-chalently.

It didn't resonate well in her mind, that in such a holy place one would be killing a sentient being-

To desecrete the temple of Jiuweihu by the act of bringing forth an undead within its doors was one, but to permit their blood to be shed there, where she had her wedding and so many had grown several thousand of eventful moments could be beared with.

"That is too much. Have you no conscience of the atrocities you are now doing?

Within the temple of my kin's mother. To the eye of Jiuweihu you offer blood and sacrifice by tarnishing her temple with death and execution.

Yes, you may've brought her servent to watch and give him a ceremony like I desired, but nowyou simply ought to spill his blood Here?!"

She pauses, sighing deeply as her voice didn't sound angry, but just tired and amazed at the attitude and decisions of the people surrounding her. Moving forth she continues, her movements already having separated her from the crowd.

"If you are to sacrifice him here, within the last temple of the illuminated, I shall not bear you good favor. I have contemplated idiocy and misdirections from heavens, myself and everyone in this world, but to do such an afront to my faith I will not stand."

She steps glare at the crowd through her mask, taking her time to scan them over with nearly an icey voice, deep with meaning. Though as stated, there would be no hatred. Only slow and steady words as she'd have hoped reason could prevail over them.
(Midia Di Maria)
[20:41] It's very strange, to be led so far. To be led so high, and so close to the moon. He hadn't looked up to her today, but to look upon the full moon, the symbol of his humanity -

it fills him with joy. With strength, in a certain fashion.

Rather than sitting, he stands atop this mountain, higher up than anyone could ever have hoped he would have dreamed he ever could have.

"Mother Moon. I've worked so hard to achieve what you told me to do. I've tried, for so long, to achieve every goal that you helped me see that I had."

He bathes in the moon's light, communing with the spirit that had guided him for so long, now.

"Your light was the first thing that I ever saw, of the natural world. It was wonderful. Soothing. Cold, yet so wonderful."

So tell me, Mother Moon.

He feels so alive, in this moment. So separated from the idea of death - isn't this what it meant to be human?

What should I do?

An ethereal voice calls out from the darkness, high above the sky. It's masculine and feminine alike, as the avatar of the moon's light allows it to channel through him.

The spirit speaks from Eiphraem's lover's lips.

"Do what you've always done, Perseus.

Break your chains. It all led up to this, didn't it?

You've been trapped, for so long..."

As the communion breaks, Perseus draws his sword. The inscription reads -

'Humanity is my Strength. Oblivion is my Peace.'

A silver bubble begins to form at the end of his blade, as the inscriptions fill with lunar light. He turns it downward, flipping it in his grip - as if he were preparing to drive it into his belly.

He lets out his breath with a little laugh. It frosts in the air.

"So this is how it ends?"
(Perseus)
[20:42] "I'm sorry for lying to you, Rayan. I deserve it to the one who loves me to try to live." Rather than drive the sword into himself, Perseus drives the sword into the ground. The silver bubble, completely and totally full of the moonlight, charged by his proximity to the moon -

explodes, as he attempts to escape. He goes flying through the air, with the sword still in his grip.
(Perseus)
[20:43] It's quiet. Uneasiness fills his mind, the winds chilling around him. Perhaps it could slow his descent long enough for him to catch up, but it was unlikely.
(Rayan L'Paix)
[20:44] Sky blue eyes watch as the undead attempts to take to the sky. A small laugh escapes the Regent at this. "One should not allow chances such as this. A lesson learned." A telekinetic force flies through the air, intent on attempting to stop Perseus from their flight.
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[20:44] ^
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[20:45] Zoom
(Mythran Yugao)
[20:46] Rayan L'Paix says, "... you're going to regret this, Perseus."
[20:46] Coltrane's tears whipped away in the wind. Tendrils of ice wrapped themselves around his bones, and numbness seeped in to his flesh. And it had nothing to do with the cold.

His oldest living friend - the man that had brought him some of the happiest and most fulfilling moments of his life, was sentenced to death. He didn't need to say anything. Everyone knew what he was going to do. It was clear from the moment he screamed defiance at the Qilin's sentence.

His voice echoed off the walls of the twin shrines, clear as day, without even a hint of waver that the tears streaming down his face may indicate. He speaks to make himself heard - by Perseus? Ikkaku? Rayan? It doesn't matter. Maybe he's just speaking to himself, making him

"Fourteen years I've lived among you. Neries. Dreamer. Grey-skinned two-faced war-profiteering traitor-spawned azraelite. And I have come to love you all. I have done my best to rise above what I am - what I am perceived to be."

"And Perseus Kang is a better man than I. He has always been a better man than I. Even when he was a mass of steel melted to bones, the claws of oblivion wracking his conscience, he was a better man than I. He taught me patience, love, he guided me and gave me something to strive for."

The cobblestones rise as he steps up and over the handrail, providing steps for him to close the distance.

"If he dies, I d-"

And then Perseus explodes.

Well, that works! His dramatic gesture cut short, Tsing Tao drops to the floor, feeling the vibrations of his closest friend, shuddering the ground and providing what clear path he can summon for Perseus' flight.
(Coltrane Brubeck)
[20:47] Standing back with a face covered in blood and bangs dyed in crimson; Amane would watch the scene with wide eyes. The knowing misery of Tsing; her eyes wide as she watched the situation unfold, her staff in hand and body weak.

Pathetically shaking from the waves of her own sadness; and then the explosion! Amane stepping to the side, watching the explosion while getting out of the way as she moved closer.

Ducking past people, running over to the side of Tsing; grabbing onto his shirt as he hit the ground, and abruptly holding him there.

A cosmic charged arm trying to restrain him as she sharply whispered.

Blood still smeared on her face, and miserable beyond compare.

Angry.
(Amane Faoleng)
[20:48] Amane Faoleng whispers something.
[20:49] Amane Faoleng whispers something.
[20:49] An amazing speed- Several times faster than one's body would allow. Though most importantly, she knew the undead would probably take his chance to flee. Though, that was volumes faster than she could reach. Accelerating herself, she dash away from the rubbles and attempt to pursue them.
(Midia Di Maria)
[20:49] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: This is how I die, Amane. I made a promise. If I can't save his life, everything I've sworn, everything I've tried to acheive all my life means NOTHING. Twenty four years, useless. I might as well die.
[20:49] She could stop him.

Aziza watches, her brows furrowed.

It's clear there's a good part of her that wants Perseus to simply fly away as intended, but..

Crafthold was the enemy now.

It's nothing personal.

There's a gust of wind, and then Aziza is alft on an intercept course.
(Aziza Maru)
[20:51] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: I am nothing but my word. I gave it to you. I gave it to Perseus. If he dies, my word means nothing. I mean nothing.
[20:52] Amane Faoleng whispers something.
[20:52] Amane Faoleng whispers something.
[20:53] Amane Faoleng whispers something.
[20:53] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: I CAN'T, Amane!
[20:54] Coltrane Brubeck whispers: I'm a pushover, I'm a beta, I let girls a third my size strip me naked in the middle of the street.
[21:04] Zoom! As Perseus zips through the air, here comes Aziza. She'd always been so damn fast. This cold air, argh.

Quick as lightning, fast as wind, she blasts skywards to knock Perseus off course and downwards in a flying sort of tackle, skidding to a halt in the snow a ways away.

"I'm sorry!" she calls back, winds dispersing.

"I don't know why I did that! Everyone else was!"
(Aziza Maru)
[21:05] (test)
(Lapis Valerius)
[21:06] (test)
(Lapis Valerius)
[21:06] (Test)
(Bella Di Maria)
[21:06] Holding Tsing down? The girl would stare at what was happening, wide eyes as her brain functioned at what speed it could; the blood of Lucan still smeared across her face, the knuckles of her left fist busted from hitting the corpse.

Emotions running high as she stared down at Tsing; knowing full well that this man couldn't escape, that Tsing would fight. And would die.

That there wouldn't be much to have left.

With a flash of light the girl would throw a whip of electricity, catching the speeding figure by the ankle before it could escape. Whipping it down into the hard ground below.

Raising from Tsing, staff drawn and face cold she would walk over and prepare for the fight; frowning darkly, as she watched him.

"You'd best bring your strongest.."

She would kneel down and mumble before gripping his back, bringing him onto his feet in a small throw.

Glaring seriously.
(Amane Faoleng)
[21:06] Amane Faoleng whispers something.
[21:06] Bella Di Maria whispers something.
[21:06] Bella Di Maria whispers something.
[21:12] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[21:13] Moonlight blasts through the atmosphere, sailing on a rocket built of hopes and dreams. Adrenaline is flowing. Adrenaline is racing. When Amane grabs him, he bellows out in what sounds like emotional pain -

"Let me live! I LOVE HIM."

As he slams into the ground, another bubble of mana propels him forward, leaving a crater on the ground as he tries to crawl himself forward. The only emotion upon this once-skeleton's face, with eyes that now glow cyan with the light of the moon mixing with his necromantic energies -

is determination.

Those words empower him, bringing him forward towards greatness, towards humanity, as his inability, as his unwillingness to die -

as it all comes to a head.

He falls limp in the air, before sliding through the snow, to the edge of the cliff. He dips his chin ever-so-slightly, barely visible -

before preparing his weapon for combat.

"You were given mercy by the one I love, once. Freedom. Isn't it funny how everything comes back to bite you? No good deed goes unpunished, Amane. Remember that."
(Perseus)
[21:20] Eye's wide at the blue of the figures aura, the cosmic on her own arm flaring golden; sparklings of blue forming between it as Mana was drawn into her body. Empowering her, the moonlight casting down on both of them; and a sudden smile followed as she knew he was doing the same. A soft giggle.

But the fight would be launched into with little hesitation; Amane bringing herself through with dashes of cosmic, the blue and golden mixing in tangent to reflect her lack of mastery of a similar ability.

Still a lot left to learn.

"You shouldn't have followed Lucan huh!? I made that same mistake and look at me now, I'm miserable!"

Yelling as she moved through the fight; a beam of yellow cosmic energy firing across the shrine, colliding into the man to send him further back towards the steps.

Following.

Having noted the dip of his chin.

With the second portion of the fight happening, one may see her aura flare and then weaken; her staff being taken into both hands as she prepared for another clash.
(Amane Faoleng)
[21:24] He's fighting just as intense as he had before, even if his body is beginning to petrify even more with this exertion. Every one of Amane's blows, he attempts to abate with his resilience, with the silver light -

and yet, every time he brings his blade up to meet her blows, it's knocked aside and he's brought further and further down the steps. While the blows are quick, intense, frenzied -

"Fuck!"

Every time that she strikes him, he's constantly trying to get further. He's constantly attempting to make his way back home, even if he has to throw himself down this goddamned mountain to do it.

"If I were following Lucan, I would be following him to the grave. This path I'm following is my own -

and I won't allow anyone else to end it here. I owe that much to the one I love."
(Perseus)
[21:27] Mitra Vindict asks, "The fuck is this shit?"
[21:30] Every strike.

Every single swing of the arm he has left remaining - every single one of them, he drives harder and harder against her; the moon is his companion, his truest guardian - and she empowers every strike with his humanity.

Perseus swings the flat of his blade right to Amane's chest, and the sheath of blue and silver light surrounding it explodes out in her direction, but each force has its equal opposite.

Each time that he hits her, he forces her further and further down the mountain if she wants to chase after him. As they fight, he takes every inch of safety and uses it to close a few more feet of distance between him and exactly where he wants to be.

"You know that it doesn't have to be this way. There are people worth saving, and I need to save them."
(Perseus)
[21:35] Ming Xiao asks, "Um. Anyone seen Akio?"
[21:36] The man was powerful and she knew why; recognized from the side of Eiphraem, a man she so greatly respected, Amane would find herself struggling.

Struggling? No, she was incredibly weaker than before; her movements seemed slugish and off, each step betraying what she had displayed in round one; tears smeared across her face to mix with blood and leave her an awful mess.

But among the fight? One would notice the blue of her arm growing stronger-- drowning out the normal gold of the cosmic, the moonlight showing itself her friend as well as they baved in it during the furious dance of skill.

And one may notice her smiling; even as the flat of the blade collides with her chest, sending her falling down the mountain stairs until she slide to a stop and stumble while raising the staff.

Left arm hovering protectively over her lower stomach.

"It doesn't...Does it? That's the problem with this area; we all seem to not think. A lot of us can't even be people; we're always right, aren't we?...It's been like that for a while.

With Zamara first, and soon to be with Tsing; and Violet next....It doesn't matter what side you are, and how much humanity you show; it's about which side you swing that banner.

Use good people, us who swear to neutrality? Little acts of kindness? We have no place...So we choose our sides.

Just as Ikkaku will kill you, Tragedy will kill me."

And as she spoke she smiled; arm curling tighter against her stomach, protectively; watching the figure who looked like Nerzan, a wave of nostalgia covering her. Sadness mingling with it to create a complicated expression.

Nostalgia weighing against her...The sadness of having to bury Lucan, and fight Nerzan all in one night.

And some may recognize her posture; weak and low, without the power from the start of the fight as one she held against Eiphraem when losing.

And one may notice she was suddenly holding something back.
(Amane Faoleng)
[21:37] Aziza Maru says, "...."
[21:41] AW
(Uchimiwa)
[21:42] Luo Xutong says, "what is going on. . ."
[21:42] Luceil whispers something.
[21:47] He can feel victory brimming in his veins. Slowly, surely -

he claws his way through the jaws of death, with every plunge, every slash, every lunge towards her, every defensive slice -

the beast is kept at bay, and another beast makes his way closer and closer to life. To escape. To Eiphraem.

"You can't stop me from living. No one can. I'm going to be alive."

The tears are streaming down his face, and his skin is tearing as his smile grows - as excitement builds within his chest, and as his life flashes in an explosion between the two of them.

"Your people are broken - they're more broken than my soul. They've let the darkness of war corrupt their cores.There is a demon more human than this."

The bubble of mana surrounding him grows, grows, grows. The blue light recedes - and the silver sheath that surrounds him becomes thicker and thicker, as his mana surges to its current peak -

"Fix them. Please. For the good of everyone."

He raises his sword and slices through the silver sheath, parting its energy and causing it to burst in Amane's direction. But every force has its equal and opposite reaction.

As energy bursts out of the shell he's cloaked in, he allows his body to fall limp in the moon's protective light - as he anchors himself to it, and anchors it to him -

a moonlit meteor soars off the edge.
(Perseus)
[21:49] Dan Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[21:49] Dan Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[21:50] Rayan L'Paix whispers something.
[21:50] Dan Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[21:50] Dan Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[21:50] Rayan L'Paix whispers something.
[21:51] Dan Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[21:51] Rayan L'Paix whispers something.
[21:53] And the loss was taken; a very sudden sloppy display from Amane, her magics seeming weak and without any real connection. Attacks were missed but they were flashy; they looked "right". Every collision of magic, every throw of Cosmic, every burst and yell sounded real and gutteral.

Anger brimming through as she sudden burst into combat towards the end; and looked more like herself, showing form and skill like no other but it had been far too late. The weak Amane being pushed back by the man as she continued to hold protectively at her lower stomach.

And a small smile traced her lips; watching as the man ascended, watching him at his beautiful moonlight aura as her left arm was finally removed from her stomach; comsic ebbing and flowing in golden plumes to turn into her own variant of the aura he showed.

Beautiful moonlight.

And then she would crash to her knees while finally released a surpressed sob at the "loss", screaming abruptly as she brought her staff down into the stone below.

Anger blowing her cosmic aura around her, for only a moment, before it would scatter and fade; leaving her with smoke rising from her form as tears spilled to the ground below.

Tears for Lucan, Tsing, Zamara and Violet.

But a huff would be cast; fighting off the sobs and hiccups as she rose to her feet. Armor cracked, body steaming from her circuits being pushed to a sudden peak, and eyes on Ikkaku; watching him, staring.

Only for the moment.

And then a smile her head tilted to the side; a rather disturbing look with the mixing blood and tears on her face.

"It looks like I really am a failure, aren't I?..Ikkaku..."
(Amane Faoleng)
[22:02] Midia rushes down the slope toward the fight, time magic coming to her aid as she was attempting to pursue the culprit behind the group.

Infact, she was amongst the mass descending, attempting to catch up to undead prisoner attempting to flee. Down the temple grounds she marches the journey back toward Tongy in a race to catch on, only to see Amane starting to catch defeat.

There, taking her staff she garners herself with a thick layer of protective time magic. Distorting the very reality around her, she tries to chase after the fighter but-

He jumps off the edge, so high above the ground.

Now standing there, she can only watch as Amane asks the Lord Regent about her performance and move forth to check down the cliff- So high infact. It'd be a miracle they could do the same, thus she abstain doing so with a deep sigh.
(Midia Di Maria)
[22:08] Maiya Shen says, "oco: are a lot less blue than they once were"
[22:10] Ambra whispers something.
[22:10] Chico whispers something.
[22:10] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[22:10] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[22:11] Chico whispers something.
[22:11] Ambra whispers something.
[22:11] Ambra whispers something.
[22:11] Ambra whispers something.
[22:11] Chico whispers something.
[22:12] Chico whispers something.
[22:12] Ambra whispers something.
[22:12] Ambra whispers something.
[22:12] Ambra whispers something.
[22:13] Chico whispers something.
[22:13] Chico whispers something.
[22:14] Ambra whispers something.
[22:15] Ambra whispers something.
[22:15] Ambra whispers something.
[22:15] Chico whispers something.
[22:15] The magic was sloppy and it showed. The Regent's sky blue eyes watched the battle between Amane and Persus, a heart full of hope. Yet, as time when on and the battle drew to a close, the hope began to fade. Amane hit the ground and the crying undead managed to soar away. A telekinetic force was launched towards the undead but likely failed to grab hold.

". . ."

There is an inhale through the skull mask, a bubbling occultism can be felt for the briefest of seconds before settling. An exhale was had before the sky blue eyes open and wings of white surround the Regent.

"You are an undead who corrupts the world and eats away at the good of it.. I will not let you get away."

The wings spread, lifting Ikkaku alight and giving chase after the undead.

"I will not let creatures that harm the lifestream and the world escape judgement. Return to the cycle."

[[Actions pending.]]
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[22:16] Ambra dug her hands into her coat pockets, and stepped beside Chico to view the ordeal.
(Ambra)
[22:16] Mordred looked back at the Fae and then the crowd. She shifted uneasily and looked at the crowd that had gathered. She wasn't sure if she should have been here to interrupt it but nevertheless, she was.

"Excuse me, this one is called Jiri, they are affiliated with Gaiar, and they have come here to check on their friend named Fisk."
(Mordred)
[22:16] Mordred whispers something.
[22:17] Jiri whispers something.
[22:18] Caprise whispers: invite me to party)
[22:21] Maiya is arriving at the matter, going up to Kirigaya's side.
(Maiya Shen)
[22:21] Maiya Shen whispers something.
[22:22] Kurochi Kirigaya whispers something.
[22:25] Kurochi Kirigaya whispers something.
[22:25] Dorian Di Maria whispers something.
[22:26] Mordred whispers something.
[22:27] squints for a moment, excitement apparent on his face. It seemed the regent was taking action!
(Luo Xutong)
[22:27] The telekinetic force doesn't grab him, but it throws him off of its course. It had been calculated, it had been his last attempt to survive, and it had succeeded.

-- until it didn't, of course. As it seems, the undead who asked for half a dozen last requests might not get his way out of this one. He slams down into the ground, skidding and making a new crater in the hardened snow and dirt, as the Regent takes flight after him.

"I do good, Ikkaku. You are an agent of Order, not of good.

It's the good of those I love. It's the good of those I protect. My Archon hated the slaughter. My Archon spared Amane, when Ardent Cliff burned."

His aura of dread had been suppressed - but now he allows its hunger to grow, and invisible tendrils to whip away at the world around him, absorbing ambient mana wherever it lay.

His eyes, which had been stained a solid cyan and drained to a soft silver - begin glowing with the light of necromancy. It radiates out from him in waves, showing the true, abominable effect of his aura.

He has to drain from his surroundings to live. Without feeding upon them, his body would fall apart.

The magic of the Spires is a terrible thing.

"You're eating away at your own good. You're destroying the most righteous of men, amongst the people of Aetherius.

Do you know how many lives I've saved? Do you know how many men in Ardent Cliff are alive because of me?"

His body all at once heaves with the power of stolen life.

"How many men are you killing, by killing me? Is the stain on my soul greater than the one you want to bring into the world?"

"What makes me the monster, Ikkaku? What makes you better than me?"

He's ready to receive the charge.
(Perseus)
[22:32] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[22:33] Kurochi Kirigaya whispers something.
[22:34] Coltrane Brubeck whispers something.
[22:38] It's vicious.

Thunderous. Violent.

It's the most alive he's ever felt. It's the closest to death he's ever felt.

His veins are on fire. He can feel himself burning with the fury of a life that must continue. He can feel himself churning with glory, with the taste of a victory he need only grab.

He has to live. He has to live. He has to live, and get back to Eiphraem.

With every bit of his might, he screams -

"LOOK AT THIS ARM THAT FIGHTS FOR GOOD, IKKAKU. LOOK AT THE STRENGTH YOU'LL BE ERASING FROM THE WORLD."

Balls of cyan energy explode underneath him as he soars through Ikkaku's blows, slamming his blade into the man's armor as energy tumultuously roars inside of it, before exploding outward inside of the shell Ikkaku wears.

Both of them are sent flying - Ikkaku might even be grounded for a moment, if he wasn't prepared for Perseus to meet him.

Stone scales litter the battlefield as he crashes down into the snow, before popping back up for another charge.

"All you have to do is let me go. All you have to do is let me live, BUT YOU AREN'T WILLING. I am good. I am human. I have worked so hard for this, and you of all people - you will not take it from me.

I DESERVE TO LIVE. IF I DON'T, THEN WHY DO YOU?"
(Perseus)
[22:42] They're beaten back.

The Regent is knocked back by the force of the undead in Nerzan's body, pushed across the ice as energy sent Ikkaku towards the ground. There is a panting from under that mask as the sky blue eyes close, glancing downwards.. Before Ikkaku rises towards their feet. A feeling of calmness and benevolence surrounds them.

"You are corrupt.

You make this about you, about what good you can do for the world while serving the Archons every whim. You are an undead, a creature that should return from the lifestream to their next incarnation instead of dwelling on this one. You can not live. Your very existence rots of the world.

You steal and take for yourself even the corpse of my dear friend.. But that is not why you should die.

I can not allow evil to live and thrive. I will protect the good people of the world, not allow them to suffer from rot and chaos. Persues. Find your peace."

Around Ikkaku several blue flickering flames appear, restless spirits of Order.

"I will not let you leave this place."
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[22:49] Dorian Di Maria whispers something.
[22:49] Kurochi Kirigaya whispers something.
[22:50] Vance shuffles through to the back of the crowd, just so he can see what's going on...
(Vance)
[22:50] Blood flows, and not just from vials this time.

The blade of Perseus cut deep into Ikkaku's armor, drawing the crimson liquid from the Regent's body. And yet.. That only seems to make him stronger. The rotting Miasma spills across the ice, digging itself into the skin of the undead and rotting away at it. Sounds disorient and whenever the blood draws close, their body slowly begins to turn into mist.

Typhoons spill across the ice, striking forwards before the final hit connects; The end of the staff Teleman collides with the side of Perseus' face, knocking them ice-ward.

"You are not good. You are not human. You are an undead which poisons the minds of those around them. You slip into good societies, weaken willpower, and crush them underfoot.

You are right. I am not willing. I am not willing to let you go and thrive when doing so puts innocent people at risk. You do not even think about your actions, about how your very presencesickens the world around you.

Good is not something a person can determine for themselves. It is those around them that decide what good is. And I can definitely tell;

Your selfishness is sickness. Your want to survive beyond your means is sickness.

You are evil."
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[22:51] The guardsman body seemed to shift slightly. Things had escalated beyond imagination and somehow the regent was now in battle with a wanted criminal. . . .and yet their was nothing he could do to aid the situation.

Beyond the fact the battle was too far for him to reach with his current capabilities, it was also out of his league. Yet the screaming passion of the Sarradian. . .contrasted very oddly with Ikkakus' calm determination.

The regent would win. . .

the thought crossed his mind, not as some form of epiphany but simply because he believed in the fact that law and order would encapsulate chaos and obliterate such filth from the world.

The Reagent had to win
(Luo Xutong)
[23:00] Mythran's eyes were wide as ever.

This battle between high level Magi was much different from others. There was a thick cloud of emotions over it. Not only were blades clashing, but ideals and much more.

The Yugao child watched intensely, the power of the arcane was being displayed in full effect. The Regent was very skilled. The undead swordsmen was amazing at his craft, managing to hold his own with the Regent while missing an arm.

Chills, and they weren't from the snow. This shit was fucking intense and Mythran was finally not fucking bored.
(Mythran Yugao)
[23:00] Midia watches forth as both collides in the battle below. She couldn't reach them either- At least not safely.

Staring at the two powerful magi clashing against one-another with her mask, no expression or semblance of them would be perceived by her comrades as she analyzed the situation below.

Frowning, she couldn't do much and if she began to cast anything Midia would essentially render this battle just as hard for any of the two party.

The distance was too much, and even if she began pouring waves after waves of magic she wouldn't be able to properly connect any of them see'ing the distance.

Patient, she folds her arms within her sleeves and watches the battle ensue, there was nothing she could do.
(Midia Di Maria)
[23:03] As he flies through the air, sent limp and tumbling by Ikkaku's blow, his face contorts into something more predatory. Indignant, defiant, visceral, as he attempts to use his silver shroud to absorb the blows. However, as he collides with the ground, he feels his mana -

falter, as the toll of the drained shard calls its tax upon his body. He begins petrifying more and more on the spot, indeed, as Ikkaku said -

consuming the body of Nerzan, just for the right to live.

He scrambles to grab his sword that slides across the ice, before tightly coiling voracious, invisible tendrils around it.

"You're making it all about me, too, Ikkaku. You're making it all about me, too." He can't help but force air out in a wall of laughter - a singular sheet of sound that cuts through the air.

"You never judge yourself, do you? You only judge your enemies? I judge myself every day, Ikkaku. I think upon my crimes. You? All you do is find more excuses to murder.

How black is your soul, Ikkaku? Mine burns blue. You disgrace the face I wear. Nerzan was a good man - and there are good people among you."

Perseus pushes himself up off of the ground, as his sword imperceptibly bends under the weight of the hunger that just barely holds him together.

"I would fight for them - I wanted to fight for them, just as I had in life. Did you know that? Did you know that's what Geese wanted for me? Do you know how many lives were lost because you can't call me human?

You're a monster, Ikkaku. Only monsters can hunt monsters. Anyone good wouldn't have the stomach for it."

Perseus points the blade named Humanity directly towards Ikkaku's chest, so far away in the snow.

"Judge yourself before you judge others. These people are dying for you."

He doesn't charge. No, no - he walks forward, with his sword at his side. He closes the distance one step at a time.

"I have lived this borrowed life in the service of others. So murder me, Ikkaku. I'll be cry before I die - but I'll be laughing from the grave."

Once the distance has closed just enough, a new crater forms behind Perseus - as another explosive blast sends him soaring for the Regent.
(Perseus)
[23:15] It was like a wall.

One built up within as telekinetic power surged around. Sky blue eyes stayed focus on Perseus, pelting them with energy and water as they were forced back by the blade. Wounds would slowly begin to close along Ikkaku's form as the battle continued, staff oft colliding against the undead's form.

"I do judge myself." The Regent merely states. "I am a solider. I am one who fights to protect good and destroys the evil as necessary, the evil most people wouldn't have the heart to fight. Where some crumble and allow undead, I do not bend. Where some allow demons, I do not break.

Chaos is a sickness. And I will see it cleansed." Telekinetic force would stop Perseus in mid-air before a beam of water connected with the undead; accidently forcing them further down the mountain.. And then further then that. Without meaning to, the Regent would have made Perseus a sea bound target.

The sky blue eyes squint at this.

"I am not a monster. I am not Tragedy who slaughters innocent people, nor am I one of her supporters. I am not an undead, a tool that will be used by the fallen Angels during the divine war. And I'm not naïve enough to fall for your words, that you are good.

I am a solider. And in this moment, what is needed most is;

Your death."

Blood flies towards the Undead, the Regent attempting to send them straight through the heart of Perseus.
(Ikkaku Ukitake)
[23:21] Ru Shi says, "..."
[23:22]
{LOAD GAME}

[23:26] Nikolai Criss says, "Excuse me..."
[23:26] Nikolai Criss asks, "Is there a leader around here?"
[23:27] Nikolai Criss asks, "or something close to it?"
[23:27] Aysel says, "Now. Is really not the time."
[23:29] Nikolai Criss asks, "What's going on exactly?"
[23:30] "You're blinded by justice."

The wall of telekinetic force is slammed against as the undead throws all the weight, all the strength that he has, just to push through the wall of might.

He's fought against the lifestream for as long as he remembers. Order has tried to tear his soul apart for as long as he remembers.

There have always been people willing to kill him, for as long as he remembers - and every single one of them has failed.

The humongous amounts of energy that surge around his form slam into Ikkaku's might as his own wellness seems -

ignored. In the moment, all that he can think about is -

Erase this evil. Cleanse him. Absorb him. Become him. He's a cracked mirror - a pale reflection of the sun's light, thrown against the moon's surface and bathing the ground.

And the cracked mirror cracks just a little more when he makes it past that wall of arcane might, only to be slammed against the walls of the cliff.

He cries out in agony as his bones bend under this weight, but as he SLAMS his hand against the cliff, he goes spinning through the air, closer and closer to the edge.

He knows he can't win this. The hunger draws him forward, even coiled around his blade - even as it feeds from Ikkaku's mana.

So he has to fight to survive.

The more force that Ikkaku throws towards him, the more that he uses as a shield. The more power that Ikkaku uses to destroy him, the more that Perseus is able to absorb, into the hungry tendrils that constrict his mythril blade.

"Take off your mask and see the world for what it really is, reaper. You're no more than a murderer who's grown past his guilt.

The innocents you protect are going to die - but it's not going to be because of me. It was never going to be because of me."

As Ikkaku monologues, he takes his opportunity to position himself for a worthy fall. It's always great when supervillains take their time to tell you their plans.

"It's going to be you. So murder me, Ikkaku.

Murder me."

He holds the word Humanity over his heart, preparing the energies to blow -

and as Ikkaku's spear of blood connects with it, a massive explosion rips the land apart. As Ikkaku and Perseus's energies combine, they rend the terrain, leaving a wound that Tongyishan would remember forever.

It goes down through the rock.

While the snow bursting through the air completely obscures Ikkaku's sight -

he can hear the resonating, maniacal cackle, followed by a -

splash.
(Perseus)
[23:31] Maiya Shen says, "Watching an execution gone wry, he got away from the private quiet execution, as an undead, a tainted husk of flesh, blasphemy upon existance."
[23:36] Chico whispers something.
[23:37] The demonstration was disgusting, to say the very least. From the words in utterance to her from Lapis to here and now, a hand extends from her side as she steps forward, the buzz of insects brimming all around her as she clenches her teeth together. This was why these creatures, all things that were a blight to the Sun's name did not belong. This was why her heart drummed with anxiety, anger, fear, and loathing.

"You had MERCY on the UNDEAD, AMANE."

It's loud, through the crowd, the ground shudders and shakes as she calls out. Firm to her beliefs, she knew that something wasn't right.

"IS THIS WHY YOU WANTED TO STOP LAPIS FROM BURNING LUCAN'S CORPSE ON ARIE'S ORDERS?"

There was no awe to her features, more or less horror and disgust. It had to be addressed, immediately. "How dare you?! That was an UNDEAD. A blight against life, against the world itself! Did you want Lucan to come back as an undead too?"
(Solace Huitzilopochtli)
[23:37] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[23:37] Chico whispers something.
[23:38] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[23:38] Chico whispers something.
[23:38] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:38] Chico whispers something.
[23:38] Emily pats him on the head.
(Emily Mistore)
[23:38] She only catches the tail end. The air in the area seems to drop a few degrees, if that were even possible, with her approach. One hand rests upon the hilt of her blade, fingers idly running along the smooth pommel. She hisses a singular breath as the outcome is..

Disappointing.

Teeth grit near instantly as the snow and rock explode outwards, though she dares not move. She levels her gaze upon the crowd that had gathered, the sound of the splash telling them all that they needed to know. Sandals crunch downwards into the snow as she takes a step or two forwards, and it's quite obvious she's not. Very. Happy.

Solace screams, and Aysel only casts a short glance over. When she speaks, her words are monotone and serious. She merely stares ahead, looking upon the Regent.

"A disgrace, to be certain. This. This should not have happened. We all know it. This was.. Disgusting."
(Aysel)
[23:38] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:38] Chico whispers something.
[23:38] Emily Mistore asks, "...?"
[23:39] Mordred watched the aerial battle occur with slight winces with every hit Ikkaku took, both of their blood spilling with every strike; Ikkaku harnessing it. Mordred braced for any debris the rending explosion would leave as she backed up quite a lot.

She covered her ears due to Solace shouting, too loud for this Kitsune...
"Err..."
(Mordred)
[23:39] Chico whispers something.
[23:39] Chico whispers something.
[23:40] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:40] Chico whispers something.
[23:40] Chico whispers something.
[23:40] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:40] Mythran Yugao whispers something.
[23:40] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:40] Chico whispers something.
[23:41] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:41] Lucina Valencia whispers something.
[23:41] Midia watches and notices something. Yes, infact it may've been what she thought- The possition of the undead, the way he'd been angling himself and how he tried to play it defensively.

Her mind seemed to wander, watching their powers for the longuest time before she nod silently and retract herself. See'ing him projected toward the water made her stance clear and she began to leave the scene to head off toward the fort.

This seemed to tire the woman. Perhaps she had simply no more care to give about the situation since she couldn't help, but she still aimed to reach for one of the soldier nearby.

A hand reaching away, her voice echoes gently in the growing silence as she calls for anyone present.

"The Lord Regent and their wife may've been injured seek--"

But she'd stopped, hearing Solace,s anger plummet to new heights see'ing the events unfold. With the crowd growing busy she speaks up, her voice sharp, but not angry or commanding, simply rough in the events unfolding.

"Stop gazing like bafoons, throw a flare and seek medical attention for the wounded!

Are you so self-loithed you'll argue before organising their search and capture must they land ashore?!"

She slides her hand under her mask and rubs her face, beginning to walk off in a hurry, perhaps to reach for a tower or group of soldiers.
(Midia Di Maria)
[23:41] Chico whispers something.
[23:41] Chico whispers something.
[23:41] King looks around
(King Domarco)
[23:42] Emily Mistore whispers something.
[23:42] The fight had been finished. A clash between /good/ that ended up with no realm victors, ended with no fanfare and the escape of Perseus; the girl staring down to the ground in shame at her defeat. One hand gripping the staff still impaled into the stone of the shrone, the other at her lower stomach.

Tears stinging at her eyes; something that had been such a long day, full of misery and worry...Rounded off with a good dash of self loathing that may never fade.

Armor smoking; cracked in places and along the chest, Amane raising to both feet; walking across the snow with and stone with a tired state.

Staring at the Regent. A face soft and full of fear; before a gaze turned towards Solace, glaring at her.

Hand gripping tighter on the staff.

"You think I had /mercy/!? I'm sorry Solace, excuse me for not being at my best. Watching Violet be treated awfully, poisoning herself, dealing withpeople like you and /THEN/ getting to see Lucan's corpse? Watching it burn? Him finally /dead/?!

Maybe I'm not emotionally open to fighting Undead. I didn't have any motives to Lucan's burning being prevented only to not see him melt. To see him buried, like you would want with Lapis /REGARDLESS/ of if he turned out to be a piece of shit or not. And as you see.

And as Lapis should have TOLD you. It was only a split second; I did not aim to fight him, it was a split second of my judgement wavering in the middle of /SCREAMING AND SOBBING/

Sorry for being a person..But bite me. Go back to being cold hearted and cruel all you want, and believe as you will...I lost, and that's all there is to it."

A firm glare, but lacking in life. Miserable and tired, defeated and silent as her gaze dropped to the snow; though head turning back to the Regent.

Waiting for her punishment for failure.
(Amane Faoleng)
[23:42] King Domarco asks, "Teach...What's going on?"
[23:43] A breath inwards was taken, a tranquil fury as the undead splashed into the ocean below. They had failed.. From here they couldn't confirm the death or not but.. Was it their fault truly? The Angelic wings fade as Ikkaku reaches the snow, boots crunching through it as their gaze narrowed.

"I see the world for what it is." The Regent half mumbled to the words of the undead as they began to walk away from the shrines. Blood floats up and around him, slowly being sorted away into arrays of vials and bottles. The sky blue eyes close and then..

Their gaze looks towards Amane, searching for her only the slightest moment. Their expression can't be read through the mask but.. The eyes were one of a hurt man.

".. Someone organize the search. But not her."

With that? Ikkaku moves towards the fortress. No further words spared towards Amane, and the occasional lick of occultism tangible in the air.
(Ikkaku Ukitake)