Terminus: Introduction To Sorcery

[23:21] Enkus approaches the edge of the shrine. He kneels, bowing his head in a state of respect.

"Maledictus, I beg of your will to permit two people blind to our faith to enter these holy grounds!"
(Enkus)
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[23:23] The Maledictus picked his head up to the disturbance -- Enkus, one of the magi amongst the lands. It was a surprise -- the last visitor proved to be rather unconcerning. Perhaps, it was with the cemented relations with Fortune that things were taking a turn?
''Oh? If you are here, then I trust they mean no harm to this sacred place. Let them in...''
(Etheric Presence)
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[23:24] Enkus nods, responding to the Maledictus' authority.
(Enkus)
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[23:37] What the group would walk into... Would be a shrine lined at the sides with clergymen adorn in the robes of Antefinem's colors. Their heads turned in tandem with one another to the sound of people venturing inward, before -- relinquishing their study of the new arrivals, and returning to their meditation. At the head of the pool, was a man in more regal attire -- they rose to their feet, having finished their prayer.

The room was cold, familiar to those whom had dabbled with the occult. A presence carried itself here, most potent in this very room as opposed to the spread out across the isle -- Akin, to a heart, across the anatomy of Antefinem. Its every beat could be felt... A subtle shift in the atmosphere, as though hands were rested upon the shoulders that wandered in.

A glance in the direction would reveal...
Nothing
Beyond that, the minds of those presence would be subjected to a subtle probing. A true mastery accomplished by overa century of interfacing with Meranthe's many manifestations, quietly listening to their thoughts -- willing to explore them, should the metaphorical door be carelessly left open.

The pool itself, proved vantablack…
An experienced alchemist could take note that the substance appeared to be the result of alchemical preservatives, mixed with... something else.
While it couldn't be noted as to exactly what was down within the depths of the slightly acidic fluid? It was certain that it was magically potent, yet stifled -- restricted by the combined efforts of Varrach, and countless others that would rather see it unmade.

The robed man watching the new arrivals at the opposing side of the pool extended their arms out, as though to embrace them from so far away.
This, was the Maledictus of Acentitus Mundus.

''Hello. Magi, I take it? Welcome, to this most sacred place of Antefinem. I presume you are here to pay reverence to our customs?''
They took pause, even subtly craning their head to the side -- as if to contemplate based on the last arrival.
''Ah, or... Perhaps, you've come to commune with the Patron. It appears to be something that many of the visiting magi tend to...'' A roll of the wrist sought to aid in their search for the proper words.
''Seek out, for lack of better words.''

(Etheric Presence)
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[23:45] Laurentius of Terminus enters with a strong waft of that cologne all the soldiers seem to wear, to silently stand at a perfect parade-rest on the side.
(Laurentius of Terminus)
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[23:45] From the doorway does a figure float past.
Unseen to sight.
Absent of any mana leeching off its skin. How?
A mind tailored to be shut and sealed.
Passing Muse with even the air shaped to conceal its movement.

Yet all the same, an additional entity within the sanctum, watching from a far wall.
Would it be noticed?
Perhaps even these precautions prove insufficient, to what lies within the pool.
(Aricles Alline)
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[23:51] Stepping into that shrine his gaze immediately fell upon the pool of darkness in front of them. Ignoring the clergymen which worked around them as his gaze fell upon that regal figure. A familiar chill teasing the edges of his senses and for a moment his control slipped.

Occultic power wrapping tightly like a shroud around his form as his hand reached outwards. Feeling that strange 'pulse' like a heartbeat as something seemed to rest upon his shoulders. Annoying, the temperature around him suddenly dropping in time with his emotions.

"Enough."

The probing at his mind the final straw as he slammed the gates of his mental palace shut. As best he could, not nearly as practiced as the entity or Muse herself. Yet enough that it would need to actively ignore him if he sought to gain further entrance.

Should the entity cease it's probing his occult flames would disappear and the chill would fade. Kneeling at the edge of the pool as those icy blues studied the alchemical mixture. "Preserving..." his gaze shifting to empty space in front of him.

"A corpse?"

A vial removed from his jacket as he held it out in front of him without a word. A silent request for permission to retrieve some of the pool's ichor. Though he wouldn't be so rude as to bottle any without that permission. It word's echoed but he would only offer a few of his own. For the most part allowing Muse to handle the meat of their discussion.

"You've met me before. Yes, I am a Magi. I'll allow my fellow Consul to reveal why we're here."
(Michael Eros)
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[23:54] Muse was nothing if not astute and observative. Her eyes gleamed with a subtle tinge of truth magic as she stepped into the room, a revealing glimmer of Moonlight always surrounding the Ookami. Every movement was observed carefully, though Muse was focused on the center of that room.

The subtle waft in the air. A presence similar to Interitus, with the feeling of finality. The presence of Mortyl, perhaps? Then, there was the occultic presence. One that seemed to dance around Muse, for this magic here was not the usual occultic mana, was it? No. With the feeling of finality, it likely merged with Muse's own passive flow of death mana.

Though while Muse's death mana was an essence of pure destruction, this one likely had it's own unique source, just as Muse's did.

She was certainly out of home territory. In the realm of something powerful. Muse was no alchemist, but something about the pool felt off. What could it be?

...

Eyes trained onto the robed man. So this was the 'Maledictus of Acentitus Mundus'. A brief click of the tongue. Muse understood the tongue of the witches and the ancients. Of the darker sides of the world. "It is bold to call oneself a curse." A light smile formed, speaking mostly to herself. Finally, she was greeted.

Politely, Muse took the edges of her cloak, and gave a curtsy. Her arms were revealed, muscular and painted in crimson sigils that danced with an ever fluctuating flow of death mana and moonlight.

"I prefer the title High Sorceress, as I was not born a magi.

My name Muse Eros. A pleasure.

I am here to commune with the patron, yes. Ab anima, ad animam."
A slight smile was given. It seemed Muse was in no rush to jump to the reason for the visit.
(Muse Eros)
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[00:15] From the perspective of the Patron -- the atmosphere carried many disturbances, none of which cause for concern. None had sought to actively impair in a fashion that was outright recognizable. The minds of those that invited its entry, and from those attuned to it -- enabled them with more than enough information to mull upon matters of its own accord.

Upon the surface...
The Maledictus' arms lowered, expression carrying a soft smile.
The presence of Aricles was entirely unknown to the matters of man, especially of nonmagus stature. The Patron's knowledge on the matter seemed unknown... That, or they simply lacked reasoning to look any further into them, shrouded from casual view.

'Preserving... A corpse?'
Michael's inquiry on the matter was addressed almost immediately by the Maledictus himself.
''Quite the contrary... Within His Shrine, He lives. He speaks to us, and offers guidance, healing to some, and even power and knowledge to the magi that commune with him.'' They were already circling the pool, closing the distance between the two and himself.

''He has saved many upon this isle from the threats that have challenged us, time and time again. Ever since Insurrection Day, he has been laid to rest here... To rejuvenate from the defilings upon his form.''

The Maledictus' eyes study Michael as the distance closes.
''Hmm... Perhaps we have met. I will admit. My memory is not great in my older years. It feels like, without the proficiency of magic like you guys... The body struggles just a bit more to compensate, heheh.'' By now, if they hadn't moved -- The Maledictus would stand before the two, their attention now shifted to Muse.

''A pleasure, High Sorceress. I believe I heard of the island of your practice on these seas. A shame I have not had the honor of visiting. The matters of Jotunheim have proved concerning as of late... Many of our people have perished in their attacks.''

A hand was noticed -- it would seem as though they wished to claim a bit of the substance within the pool.
''You wish to partake in the Blood of our God?'' Their slowed in their reach for the two, likely in preparation to initiate in the ritual being unconsciously requested.
''An honor! Truly! May his blessings be upon you!''
So, that was the unknown factor... The alchemical preservatives were mixed with their Patron's blood, giving it an occultic taint.

''I have had the honor to see magi fester their strength having consumed it. I've heard stories of many a'rituals preformed with it in use. Not too dissimilar from the X-fluid your kin tend to drink, of course!'' They flinched, flexing, straining... coughing. A coughing fit took them by surprise, soon forced for the elbow of their off-hand -- Sickness was not an abnormality amongst nonmagi, a consequence to lacking a magus immune system...

That, and elderly age to boot.
''Apologies for that... Now then, if you are ready. I will initiate the ritual now. If you would...'' Their hand transitioned for a knifehanded gesture.
''Sit, please...''
Spectators were welcome, but unlikely to experience the fullness of the ritual.
It was likely restricted tothose whom would engage, given only one Maledictus.
(Etheric Presence)
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[00:25] Muse's hand waved dismissively. "Jotunheim will burn in time, and you'll find a chance to visit our little perch." She chuckled, though at the moves to prepare a ritual, Muse shook her head.

"My apologies, good Maledictus, though I am incapable of direct connections to patron beings. It is an effect of my path in life. I fear, if I am to commune, I must do so in my own way."

An eyebrow raised. "Besides. I'm a former witch. You must forgive that I am... cautious regarding potions that contain essence. I brewed them myself, after all."

Her hands clasped together. "Luckily, I have all manner of ways to communicate. I do apologize for the inconvenience. May we run over the options?"
(Muse Eros)
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[00:33] "His Shrine..."

The vial within his hand remained hovering over the pool even as he listened to their words. Insurrection Day, was this the attempted genocide he had heard so much about? Was it something else which had led to their patron being confined within the waters?

No reply was given to the regal figures remark on their ineptitude with mystical powers. Nor did he immediately respond to the offer to 'partake' in the blood of their god. "God, hm?" his icy gaze remaining locked upon that abyssal pool in his sight.

A creature clinging to life by immersing itself within this alchemical concoction. It dared to call itself a god? How arrogant, though he felt the pantheon itself was arrogant as well. Occult light flickering within those eyes as he finally stowed away the vial.

"No, I do not seek the blessing of your patron deity. Quite frankly it's anathema to my own beliefs." his smile gentle. "I was simply curious about the alchemical concoction in front of me. Your patron's blood is in it? Interesting." finally stepping back.

Michael was content for the moment simply to lean against the wall and observe the exchange. His gaze occasionally darting from the pool towards Muse herself without a single spoken word.
(Michael Eros)
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[00:35] The Maledicus withheld their hand, taking what was said into account.
''Ah, well alright then.'' Someone capable of communing with the Patron without his help? Surely, it was a sight to behold.

Perhaps, an example of what made a sorcerer!
''If I may correct you... I... Don't think... The essence you refer to, is the same as His... Though, a former witch? I was not expecting that. I was told stories that witches and necromancers sought to challenge and antagonize them in the past, but... That was the full extent of my knowledge on the subject.''
Their eyes shift over to Michael with mild curiosity.

''Hm.''
A single nod before they'd turn to silence, opting to observe whatever means it was that Muse sought to accomplish.

''Please, do indulge me.''
(Etheric Presence)
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[00:39] Enkus bows his head to the Maledictus as he makes a sudden exit. Indeed, his patrol hours were long over.
(Enkus)
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[00:49] Challenge and antagonize them in the past? How interesting. "Well, I was not one that bowed to the main covens of the land. I doubt your patron would've had any trouble with me in my youth."

Muse nodded, a brief speculation of what the patron was. "Now, the easiest path would be to invoke your patrons true name." Would they even know such a thing? "I could manage a connection to their mind, in such a case.

Or, if you happen to have a... record of those who have been blessed by your patron, a book of some sorts? Touching that would be enough as well. Lastly, I suppose if it's 'here', a telepathic resonance could work just fine."

Once again, that glimmer of truth danced along her eyes. "Though,
(Muse Eros)
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[00:50] Once again, that glimmer of truth danced along her eyes. "Though, perhaps knowing your own method would help me in establishing my own."
(Muse Eros)
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[00:50] Laurentius, for his part, remaind standing in perfect parade rest, observing the display quietly behind his helmet. He doesn't say a thing, just keeping watch.

Prior assassination attempts necessitated increased security. Democracy's strongest (there isn't a lot of competition, ok?) soldier wasn't going to let anything happen on his watch!

He remains in respectful silence, in the shrine.
(Laurentius of Terminus)
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[01:00] The true name of an entity carries power.

Did the clergymen know?
Did the Maledictus know?
Did the masses know..?

''Usque Terminus.''
Such, was the ending phrase of their prayers...
The formal good bye's they'd share...
A phrase of an ancient tongue, to compliment the very nature of Antefinem…
Ante Finem.

The expression of the Maledictus turned for something much more solemn. There was nothing too casual about the utterance of that name. In speaking it, the air shifted, if only slightly.

There simply wasn't too much stifling at the source for whatever would've been invoked by uttering the name to initiate what would've... What could've played out.
(Etheric Presence)
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[01:14] The true name of an entity carries power.
Muse most certainly knew it, but did they? No. Perhaps they were out of their element in speaking with her. She spoke of black books. Summoning circles. Essence. True names. This was a witch, even if her soul belonged to her.

The sorceress gave a nod, before leaning down as moonlight and death mana festered along her fingertips like an etheric ink. Along the edge of her tongue, the light of lunar truth ignited, to prove the absolute intention behind her words.

"I swear that through this ritual, no harm will be brought to your patron or your people. I am here in peace." Thus her word was given, and she began drawing a circle. Arcane lines connected together as the sigils were akin to a wayfinding setup, though with the intent of bringing the being to her.

"I beckon you,
Usque Terminus.
Appear before me, so we may commune."

Light shined into the summoning circle, charging and empowering it to draw forth this being, should it accept.
(Muse Eros)
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[01:21] The unseen presence, a singular cold spot within the mana suffusing this chamber, slowly begins to fade into view.
Standing perfectly still, as if belonging - the gaze of nearby nonmagus attendants doubletaking upon crossing their vision with this...

Figure who certainly didn't belong.
Covered in armor of prisminthium, save for a most accursed right gauntlet, and donning a cloak of old Atrellyan design, even if its insignia of a Crescent moon clasp had been replaced with something more ordinary.
A sinka made of thread is woven upon right shoulder, whilst left holds a spider of much the same looking over; one gleaming gem of an eye amidst two others missing.

Yet nothing more than a small, slow nod is elicited forward, towards the other knight situated across this chamber.
The perfect stillness returns.
His spying, of watching and listening to everything to have happened here, seems unfettered by the knowledge that he is seen.
It was, after all, expected to be known to their host.

Even with sight now laying claim to his presence, now, is so much else absent.
The lack of any mana leeching off from his form... It is as if gazing at a nonmagi.
Most peculiar, when he is anything but.
(Aricles Alline)
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[01:25] Laurentius suddenly shifts, as Aricles appears from thin air. The clattering of metal and shifting of cloth heralds a reaching for his staff, a momentary alarm at the presence of an unseen one emerging. An attack? An ambush?

... no. Aricles remains still and unmoving, and Laurentius slowly stands down. Returning to that academy-perfect stance, in respectful silence again.
(Laurentius of Terminus)
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[01:28] What would appeared to be a corpse lying at the bottom of the depths of the vantablack pool would take to a lavender gleam -- mana surged across the fluid, shining at the surface for all to see.
The remnants of mana from previous pacts and maladies from transgressors resonated all at once...

Perhaps, a magi or person of interest would stick out amongst the numbers that had paid tributary mana in the past. The Godseed pulsated once more, casting a silent incanatation in kind -- It was being called upon, and thus, it would cast a sequence of spells that would play in twain with one another.

A projection of the shadows...
Of the Occult...
Of Space...

All of which, hyper-compressed within the shape of a humanoid silhouette. The vestiges of Death Magic clung to it, an attempt by the now-Primordial Varrach toward total erasure -- resisted even now.
Such, was much more prominent now... Slowly protruding from the blackened substance.

It was gargantuan, well over a dozen feet had extended from the ebonic surface, with what could be presumed to be its lower-half somewhere beneath the blood of its shrine.
Droplets of its blood seeped from its suspended arms, despite being a conjuration of pure mana.

The true body still remained bound by its own black bindings at the bottom of the waters. Regardless, a meager glance would reveal an image that resembled the current stature of their Patron.
Solid crimson hues reflected the images of those present, putting faces to the bodies it could feel through atmospheric pressure fluctuations.

The clergymen at the sides of the pool rose from their meditation, backpedaling to offer space to gargantuan arms that'd rest upon the sides of the pool, and the head of the massive entity lowered slightly... Now, gazing upon the two sorcerers.
It was ancient.
It was silent.
It was... Speculating, lost of the desire to probe at their minds any longer.

If allowed, the silence would carry for a handful of seconds... Before...
"I do not sense my Centricon here... Yet, you have managed conjure a projection my mind...

This is a magic I have come to learn only from the Witches of Olde… Yes...
Then, the thoughts of those present are true.

You...both… Happen to have what I have been searching for..."
It idled... Waiting...
It was clear, some of the new clergymen were taken aback by this manifestation. Not every individual upon the isle had come to see their Patron in person before.
(Etheric Presence)
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[01:46] Under the helm of that uninvited figure, does a... Smile form. He was here to confirm rumours, and so they had been.

The figure emerging from the pool is of an appearance one could hardly mistake for any other.
A late night out in the woods, the Alline skulking as he - evidently - so often does.
A then-imperfect, and one who appeared to have a long history with him, expressing that past.

At the time, Aricles had made further distance. Less fit for ensuring his presence goes unnoticed, particularly amidst an imperfect, the risk did not warrant more but of brief sighting before a withdrawal was deserved.

It was still not one he could easily forget.

The smile fades, helm never moving from where it stares forward; though eyes and ears drink in every last detail.
What was about to happen?
(Aricles Alline)
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[01:52] As the being manifested, once more would Muse take the edges of her cloak and perform a bow towards it. She kept her respect, though those revealing eyes of hers seemed to search the very fundamentals of this being's existence.

As it rose, the death mana around it seemed to be absorbed along the sigils of Muse's arms, absorbing into her circuits death glutton as she was. Though this close, she could recognize the source. Not it's own, but that of Varrach's.

What purpose did he have to attempt to erase this being?

A towering creature. It hadn't been since the days of the demons that such run ins were common. Akin to a skurn, though considering it's true name..? The infusion of occultic energy? A demon seemed most likely. A former demon, at least.

The eyes of the Ookami raised to meet the crimson gaze of the ancient being.

The silence was shared for but a moment, until it spoke.

"Oft do I echo the methods of the witches of olde.
It is my past. Burnt into my soul a thousand times over.

Though the methods of which I called you forth today were those of sorcery. The art I have mastered as the second grand sorcerer in Meranthe.

I am Muse Eros. It seems we have both been seeking each other.
May I ask why you were searching for us?"
Common courtesy dictated she gave the being she summoned the chance to ask it's questions first, though she certainly had those of her own burning through her mind.
(Muse Eros)
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[01:59] "Usque Terminus."

He had known half of the entity's true name but that first part was a new discovery. Content simply to observe as his mother swore her oath and prepared the ritual circle. Icy blues studying the intricate weaving of lines which formed that arcane foundation.

Truth, wayfinding, all of it was on display in front of him as she beckoned the creature forth. An invitation which it seemed the presence was keen on accepting in this moment. Yet briefly he found his attention pulled away by the sight of Aricles revealed.

An invisible guest, one which had not been guided here with them nor invited as far as he knew. Disapproval in his gaze though he made no move to voice his discontent in the moment. Focusing instead upon that preserved form which lit up light an occultic christmas tree.

Occultic shadows twisted in the air, space rippled, and finally it coalesced into that vaguely humanoid form. Death Magic clinging to it, though unlike his mother it was not the beast's own power. More akin to a malady which had seeped into their very soul.

Icy blues meeting that helish crimson gaze as he seemed to judge the creature's nature, it's worth. Not keen on interrupting the silence which hung in the air even as it finally spoke. Centricon? An unfamiliar term, though it was of little interest compared to that final line.

Michael silent as he allowed his mother the opportunity to speak before finally stepping forward. No longer content simply to idle in the back as he clasped his hands behind his back. Studying that ephemeral entity which in silence a moment longer, till he spoke.

"Consul Michael Eros."

Content simply to offer his name as he basked in the faint sense of death which radiated from them. Varrach's power, though he couldn't identify who in particular had tormented this creature. All he knew was that a hint of something could be gleaned from this moment if he was careful.

"You say that we both hold something which you have been seeking? Curious, I wonder what it is which has drawn your gaze."

A hand raised as chains of occult energy rose from his palm before he waved them away.

"Do you seek to have your bonds broken? Freed from that tattered shell resting below? Forgive any offense, I've just had my curiosity stoked and I seek answers"
(Michael Eros)
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[02:15] For the first time in decades, a projection of its being enabled some semblance of sight...
A glance to the left... And it would set its sights upon Laurentius of Terminus, before slowly drifting its sights to the right, to land its gander upon a familiar façade -- Aricles Alline. No words thus far, slowly shifting its attention to the duo before it directly.

It was growing rather obvious... The rumors were proven true. This was a former demon -- An Occultic Beast, once a rival to a much younger Varrach -- Now, digressed to its own antics.

"Muse Eros.
High Sorceress. Yes... It was revealed to me by my Maledictus."
The Maledictus in question bowed, taken aback by the image of his Patron. Unfortunately, they did not hold the grimoire bestowed upon them - an awkward predicament to find themselves in, albeit seemingly inconsequential given the context of the situation at-hand.
"Consul Michael Eros...
Hmmm... This Bloodline is new to me."

The question asked of him, was important -- a subject to be explored, after the quick inquiries were solved.

"I shall have my ascension proper. What you gaze upon is a projection of my essence... Which calls upon my intrigue upon hearing rumors of your... Sorcery.

It is new.
It is unlike the mundane magics of Meranthe.
It is not of witchcraft, for it lacks bindings to a Marqui.
Marqui that I have been relinquished from, courtesy of Vinaska over yonder.

My soul is now my own, shackles exist no longer...
Thus, I am free to probe what your magic means...
What it... Is...
So that I may know if such is key to the power to act upon those whom enchained me and mine for the eternities prior."
(Terminus)
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[02:19] At the direct gaze of the patron, Laurentius's perfect parade rest finds a reverential bow of his head added on, until Terminus looks away.
(Laurentius of Terminus)
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[02:30] Well... A former demon was of no issue to Muse. So far, at least. If it had been a Netheradin, chained and pacted to a witch, or a thrall of a Marquis of hel, perhaps her takeaway would be different. Each word seemed to make the case of this 'Terminus' more unique than the last, however.

Muse's gave focused solely upon the patron of Antefinem now, the clergy falling out of interest to her. The wounds upon it still festered deep within it's being.

Death mana was the strongest among them. It's soul damage likely rivaled Muse's own. She listened intently as it spoke, though...

Her eyes tunneled. Courtesy of Vinaska.

"You are an ally of Vinaska, then?" Muse's entire demeanor seemed to shift. "...That quite changes our interaction then, good friend." At first, her voice seemed to carry venom, though after a few moments of

silence...

A grin grew across her face. "I was her first keeper. The founder of her faith, and her hand of destruction. A chainbreaker, who follows the very path of breaking off the bindings that once shackled you.

Your soul is your own, yes?" Her stance grew more relaxed, shoulders rolling back with a popping noise that certainly didn't fit her youthful appearance.

"Then, if it is sorcery you seek to learn, you'd find that I'm capable of granting such a power. With a cost." A pale blue gaze followed up to the crimson eyes of the once-demon. "Though it was my own curiosity that brought me here, I'm sure you could assume.

Not many places begin worshipping a demon in the far edges of the world. One who has been unshackled and seeks ascension? That is a story of it's own."
(Muse Eros)
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[02:42] The entity was silent, lacking humanoid expression to work off of -- for its features lacked brows, and to some extent, lips.
Every word they spoke was contemplated upon, allowing each pause and silence to settle without the faintest digression in its seemingly static form.

Their First Keeper.
The Founder Of Her Faith.
Hand of Destruction.
A Chainbreaker…

''Your soul is your own, yes?''
In reverence, there was a slight ebb of its head upward in slow, fluid motion.

"Every soul bears its own story. Meranthe, and Eternia at-large is rife with the countless variety within the annuls of its history.

The costs such may impose upon me, shall pale in face of my Will...

Speak of such."
(Terminus)
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[02:54] A light nod was given. "Though those histories are kept under lock and key, never to be seen without access to divinity. Such is the pity of them. Divine batteries that we'll never be able to peak into, yet without them? We become husks. We lose our subconscious minds, at least until the soul and spirit part ways it death."

A light chuckle. "This soul's history ends with me. It's a cruel influence. One that begets no fate other than absolute destruction." A strange thing to say... She shrugged it off, as if not speaking of anything more than smalltalk.

"I'll keep my question simple. How are you harvesting the worship you're given? Is it in service? A black book? Prayer? You clearly are not high enough of divinity for it to be prayer, which leads me to believe you're pacting the people here." A glance across the room. "Though your story implies you aren't the type."
(Muse Eros)
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[03:08] The entity's head slightly cranes off to the side.
They surely knew of its general origin, but not of its nature.
"Mana."
A simple answer, to what should've been a rather complex answer.

"It is what I've learned of this new body... Similar to the plant-beast I observed long before. She bore divine chains that entangled them... Restricted them to... a 'Vdali'. I am unfamiliar with the true name of such interactions.

Though, I learned mana was the key ingredient. My pacts are fulfilled through my promises...

With mana to seal such promise, forever to be a part of me."
Forever, seemed to be challenged, however...
Varrach's multitude of impairments were only sullied by the mercy of Mortyl herself.

In the state it currently was in... Forever,would not have lasted as long as one would hope... But they keys to its cure, seemingly appeared to be placed in these two...
In their power...

Thus, it seemed that it was willing to acquire it somehow...
To explore it...
To fix itself…
"I have healed the sick here. I have empowered the magi... I have transformed meager beasts, into forces of my nature. It is in kind to this, that they worship me...

I feel the empowerment through their prayers, but it is subtle. Too subtle.

The Centricon, is limited in its control over the world at-large, limited only to that of myself. The grimoire forged of my flesh, or 'black book' as you'd call it -- Is incapable of accomplishing what one would recognize akin to a Marqui.

There is something I am missing for these pacts to bind those whom have served me. Votaries are common: Those whom steal my gifts, and flee to the mainland to decry me."

So, it was service then...
That, or a simple pact established, running on something more akin to a 'promise'.
(Terminus)
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[03:11] Michael Eros says, "So you can't actually bind anyone despite the exchange? You're lacking an understanding of contract magic to seal the deal, I suspect."
[03:11] Terminus says, "Contract Magic..."
[03:11] Terminus says, "Interesting."
[03:12] Michael Eros says, "One domain of order magic."
[03:12] Muse Eros says, "Efespane. That was her name."
[03:12] Muse Eros pondered for a moment.
(Muse Eros)
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[03:13] Muse Eros asks, "Then you do have a black book. Hm. Incapable of soul pacts, though?"
[03:13] Aricles Alline remains staring forward, with even his eyes locked ahead. But a tether reaches out; the smallest gap in the walls of his mind. It closes after only a moment.
(Aricles Alline)
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[03:14] Terminus says, "The Centricon is forged of my flesh. I have no control over the souls that serve me. Though, this... 'Contract Magic'... May be the key. Rather, another matter to investigate."
[03:15] Terminus asks, "Though, if such magic is born of Order... How, does one manage such, amidst a power that naturally begets Chaos in the common man?"
[03:15] Michael Eros was questioning whether he just did a bad thing by teaching Terminus. Part of him was curious how it would play out though.
(Michael Eros)
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[03:15] Michael Eros asks, "Chaos and Order combine into what?"
[03:15] Terminus says, "Hmmm... Ah... Yes..."
[03:15] Terminus says, "The intersection of Order and Chaos."
[03:15] Michael Eros says, "Order acts upon Chaos, Terminus."
[03:16] Michael Eros says, "The fusion of two polar opposites begets something akin to The Divine, it grants you Arcane."
[03:16] Terminus says, "... The Arcane... Yes... How did this not come forth prior."
[03:17] Terminus says, "Countless generations of servants have failed to provide what you two have managed in mere minutes."
[03:17] Terminus says, "Intriguing."
[03:17] Michael Eros says, "Well, we are teachers in the end."
[03:18] Muse Eros says, "Contract magic is among my specialties. I'm an arcanist, after all. Contract magic is the fastest way towards making a black book operate as those provided by angels and the marquis."
[03:19] Muse Eros says, "Though... You'd need a focus. A mana source of sorts. Souls are the best, but getting a soul before you can bind them is tricky work."
[03:19] Muse Eros tapped a finger against her chin.
(Muse Eros)
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[03:19] Michael Eros asks, "Perhaps their blood?"
[03:19] Muse Eros says, "Well. I suppose any further help would be dictated by the intention."
[03:19] Michael Eros says, "Also yes, I would highly advise considering the matter carefully as you are a vassal of Fortune."
[03:19] Muse Eros says, "No, no. But the path towards divinity is something I've research fully. I have a working thesis, just waiting for the right person to apply it to."
[03:20] Muse Eros asks, "Now- What would you do with pacted souls, should they be signed to you?"
[03:21] Terminus says, "Pacted souls... I would finally rid myself of these... Scars...."
[03:21] Terminus says, "I would become... Perfect."
[03:21] Michael Eros says, "Question about that."
[03:21] Michael Eros asks, "Are you intending to use their souls as fuel to heal yourself?"
[03:22] Terminus asks, "Hm? Such is a possibility?"
[03:22] Terminus says, "How interesting."
[03:22] Michael Eros says, "A possibility that would have you killed, yes."
[03:22] Terminus says, "I see."
[03:22] Terminus says, "The powers that exist continue to amaze me."
[03:22] Michael Eros says, "Maintain morality in your endeavors. Do not use your pacted's souls as fuel..."
[03:23] Terminus asks, "Pacted souls mean a loyalty to the pacts established, does it not?"
[03:23] Muse Eros says, "No."
[03:23] Muse Eros says, "...Souls, see."
[03:23] Muse Eros says, "They are divine batteries of mana. It is why gods, devils, and angels use them as trades."
[03:24] Terminus asks, "Even the Marqui that had enchained me?"
[03:24] Muse Eros says, "A pacted soul is given to you upon the death of the witch, rather than returning to the lifestream."
[03:24] Michael Eros asks, "Uh...maybe not? Do you even have a soul?"
[03:24] Terminus says, "It would seem, I do..."
[03:24] Muse Eros says, "The marquis' of hel specialize in soul trade. And it does. A formerly helbound soul."
[03:24] Muse Eros says, "One freed by Vinaska."
[03:24] Michael Eros exclaims, "Interesting!"
[03:24] Muse Eros says, "Your soul was the reason you were bound to the Marquis."
[03:25] Michael Eros asks, "So he would only receive the souls of his followers upon their deaths?"
[03:25] Muse Eros says, "Indeed."
[03:25] Michael Eros says, "Hm..."
[03:25] Terminus says, "I could finally pay my suffering in kind back to the very marqui that had damned me to an existence upon this continent."
[03:25] Muse Eros says, "Rather than a return to the lifestream."
[03:25] Muse Eros says, "Ha. Careful. They are a master of this very thing. Better to have a slow rise before you consider challenging them."
[03:25] Muse Eros says, "So. If you were to pact your followers to witchcraft? You'd be able to give abilities in exchange."
[03:25] Michael Eros asks, "From my understanding don't contracts need to be willing?"
[03:25] Muse Eros says, "They od."
[03:25] Muse Eros do
(Muse Eros)
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[03:26] Michael Eros gently pat his mother's shoulder.
(Michael Eros)
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[03:26] Muse Eros says, "A helbound being is a pact of their own. Their creation is bound to another, and thus the consent isn't needed."
[03:26] Muse Eros says, "It is why I advocate to destroy every soul bound to hel."
[03:26] Muse Eros says, "Now."
[03:26] Michael Eros exclaims, "Makes sense!"
[03:27] Muse Eros says, "If you were to gather the souls of your followers, their primary usage would be consuming them as fuel. To mend your injuries. To empower yourself."
[03:27] Muse Eros says, "To empower them."
[03:27] Muse Eros says, "But."
[03:28] Muse Eros says, "If you seek such a path to divinity, as the first dreamer did. I'd ask you to enter a contract with me. A powerful one, bound to your black book. Only then would I teach you to do as you intend."
[03:29] Muse Eros says, "The request is simple: That you never turn to the Marquis' of hel to join them, and that you release said souls without destroying them. Only draining them for their needed power, and returning them to the lifestream to mend."
[03:31] Terminus says, "To never turn to the Marquis' of Hel... To release the souls I procure without destroying them... To drain them only for their needed power.... And returning them to the lifestream to mend..."
[03:37] The entity craned their head, giving it genuine thought.
While some aspects were easy to agree to... Others, were heavily considered upon for unforeseen stipulations and restrictions.

What exactly was the nature of this Contract Magic?
What would happen if he broke -one- of these Tenets?
Could he in theory overpower the consequences?

This, was an entity that had outsmarted endeavors of countless in the past.
Outmanuevering the legalities of a magus contract presented to it, felt par for the course.

Thus, Terminus responded as though to clarify...
"I shall never turn to the Marquis' of Hel.

I shall release the souls of my followers, without destroying them.

I shall only drain the souls of the power necessary to accomplish the endeavors at-hand, then release those same souls to the lifestream to mend."
A brief silence followed...
"Are these your terms?"

(Terminus)
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[03:45] Aricles Alline separates his gazes from the far wall, eyes looking specifically at Muse from under the helm, while the metal itself remains pointed forward.A piece of old wisdom, that he never expected to consider again, floats toward her mind.
(Aricles Alline)
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[03:47] Michael Eros stared at Aricles.
(Michael Eros)
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[03:48] Muse observed it's words. It's hesitance. A brief prod at it's psionic presence to get a feel for it's emotions. Muse too was one that had outsmarted many. A ghost of the past of many, though they may not even know where she was within their stories.

She most certainly was far older than she appeared.

What would happen if he broke the tenets?
It remained to be seen. After all, no contract had been made yet.

"That they are, though the contract has yet to be made. It's sure to be more specific, and to have a few anchors and assurances of my own.

Should you go my path, and learn under me while bound to my terms? I could ensure you get where you intend. Though if you break my terms, I have a clear and easy to understand consequence.

Your soul will be destroyed." How it would be destroyed wasn't elaborated, but if Terminus was to go Muse's route,it was either freedom for his witches, and weaker and slower growth in return...

Or the risk of losing it all, and having a death magi finish that which so many had attempted to do over this ancient being's life.
(Muse Eros)
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[04:00] There were many matters to be pondered upon...
To be explored...

Did the contract bind their souls? Their bodies? Was it valid if either party perished? They were only human, were they not? Surely, much like any other he had established an unfavorable pact with, he outlived.

Not every matter required murder nor death...
But, a human's power could only go so far...
The machinations of the ancient's mind toiled, for even in an unfavorable situation, he managed to force a reality that worked towards his desire.

He had waited for roughly eighty years for his shadow plots against Varrach to bring about the downfall of Skarnfel, of K'thul, of Wra'gul, of Sak'noth… Even, of Varrach, until they were resurrected...
Eighty years of waiting without even arms nor legs to move himself...

What was another eighty more... When one could test whether one would exist to enforce such magic?

Then again, what was the faint possibility... That perhaps, the magic would extend beyond the caster? Certainly that wasn't possible, was it? Would someone like Muse think of something like that? How in-depth would a sorcerer manage to be? Could they truly manage to tie down one, whom sought to claim dominion amongst Gods?

Though, it also led to the unintended consequences of following the rules exactly as they were laid out, to the detriment of the contracting individual.

So many considerations...
So many thoughts...
The power dangled before him, was simply too much to let slip past his fingers.

"So be it."
Terminus' response was clear, distinct -- It was willing to meet such terms, as a challenge. To explore just how sturdy they truly were...
To test, if his Resolve...
If his Will, surpassed that of the machinations of Muse's Contract Magic in execution.
(Terminus)
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[04:04] Muse Eros says, "Very well. Soon we will meet once more, and I will help you to make your grimoire a true black book, with a few touches of sorcery."
[04:04] Terminus says, "Until then..."
[04:07] Muse Eros says, "I suppose we'll be off, then. Soon I'll call together the island nations. Perhaps we can form a collective pact of transportaion and cooperation to finally give us that which the mainland nations take for granted."
[04:07] Muse Eros says, "Transportation, rather."
[04:07] Michael Eros says, "If Kindle will be friendly..."
[04:07] Aricles Alline turns, and waits for the two Eros' to leave before he will. It seems his silence is to be maintained, for now.He had been much the same, when present for the last election day.
(Aricles Alline)
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[04:07] Muse Eros says, "Kindle is not in charge. Ala is. And fortune is a dying nation."
[04:08] Terminus says, "Ah... Then, that leads me to..."
[04:08] Terminus says, "Yes, I recognize this presence..."
[04:08] Terminus 's attention shifted to Aricles.
(Terminus)
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[04:09] Terminus says, "I have seen this one, many a'time before... In various different shapes."
[04:09] Aricles Alline shifted his helm towards Terminus, though the eyes beneath stared behind rather than direct. A habit for such situations.
(Aricles Alline)
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[04:09] Terminus says, "Of Goldlight? No. You likely would have attacked by now..."
[04:10] Aricles Alline says, "An independent. Often around, as a general rule."
[04:10] Terminus says, "I see. That would explain my accounting of you."
[04:10] Terminus asks, "Then, it leads the question... Why are you... -here-?"
[04:11] Aricles Alline says, "As said; often around. There is much to be learnt in simply watching."
[04:12] Terminus says, "Ever the spectator..."
[04:12] Aricles Alline says, "We might have discussion of our own, down the line."
[04:12] Terminus says, "Hm, so be it..."
[04:12] Aricles Alline says, "For now, I'll take my leave."
[04:13] Terminus says, "Be wary, traveler..."
[04:13] Aricles Alline thinks, "Your primary 'problem' is locked up in a cell. Enjoy."
[04:13] Terminus asks, "Ah?"
[04:13] PM from (OOC)Aricles Alline: he walks out, RUDELY
[04:13] PM to (OOC)Aricles Alline: lmao
[04:13] Terminus 's is dispelled, back to the stygian substance from whence he was summoned.
(Terminus)
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