First Scene with Serenity

[16:03] Serenity stood idle in Moonfall's square, her crimson gaze shifting from person to person, looking for one in particular. Upon finding Lavinia, she quickly approached.

"Greetings, miss."

Her voice was soft and warm, an austere expression atop her countenance. As someone who tended to stray from crowds and villages, she tried not to draw too much attention to herself.

"I've seen you around the demon tower on a couple of occasions, but we've never been properly introduced to one another."

There were many who she opted not to concern herself with, some not displaying the aptitude necessary for her brand of magic. This one, however, definitely held a degree of potential.

"I am Serenity Vander, a witch of Atreylla, as well as a doctor."
(Serenity Vander)
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[16:09] Well that was an unpleasant sparring session. But whatever, it was a wake-up call at the very least. Lavinia had a glaring weakness that needed to be compensated, quickly.

That'd be for later though, now was time for some stir fry. Upon arriving to the commonly packed square, there'd a new face asking for Lavinia's attention! A redhead? Green eyes oriented themselves to Serenity's direction, prompting a narrowing gaze to be dedicated to her. What did this lady want?

"Did we now? Hmm."

An index rose to tap her chin as she pondered the notion of having actually met that person. Nothing came of it! Although, maybe it was because she was focused on fuming on another redhead at the time to notice the discrete witch.

"Ah, yes! Pleasure, m'hm!"

Retreated drakanite wings stretched out somewhat as Lavinia accompanied her delight with a wave.

"Name's Lavinia. Mostly just . . . Abusy bee here, m'hm!"
(Lavinia Walters)
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[16:20] The reaction wasn't what Serenity had been expecting in the slightest. Lavinia's appearance certainly gave off an unapproachable vibe, as if she'd be the type to bite at you for glancing in her direction.

Not at all the peppiness which was displayed currently.

"My research and duties tend to keep me busier than most, so I often find myself cooped up in my quarters."

There was peace to be found in isolation, as well as inspiration through quiet meditation. It was far more entertaining the drama which so often littered the streets of Moonfall, as well as the gate at the demon tower.

It was a nice change of pace regardless, to get a breath of fresh air, as well as meet a singular new face.. One that didn't need medical attention, fortunately.

"I was hoping to speak with you in private, miss Lavinia. Whenever you feel that you will have free time."
(Serenity Vander)
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[16:25] "Ohhh, one of 'em brainy ones, huh?"

What an interesting vocabulary too! Her body language certainly gave off some energy, but her eyes seemed to be unusually focused on Serenity. As if she was actually thinking about more than she let on. Perhaps it would explain Sevenal's interest!

Now, a little rendez-vous with a strange doctor-scientist? What could go wrong? Well, between being abducted by Ekh'lauq and getting beaten down by Maeve, it wasn't actually that off-putting of a prospect.

With a giddy nod and a toothy grin, Lavinia responded.

"Oh, sure! M'hm! I got time right now! Let's go, Lady Vander, yes!"

Clapping her hands together, she was up for a lil' fun!
(Lavinia Walters)
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[16:40] "Very well. Feel free to follow after me."

Serenity's gaze shifted from Lavinia off towards the wilderness, in the general direction of the demon tower. It'd be a short journey, but it'd be best to remain on guard all the same.

With the recent advancement of the knights, there were few safe places on Esshar. Given that Serenity would prefer not to be burnt to a crisp, there was good reason to be cautious.

"There's a few things I wished to discuss, it'll not take long."

If she didn't show potential, anyways. With that, Serenity prepared to depart, gesturing for Lavinia to follow suit.
(Serenity Vander)
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[16:45] The journey had been uneventful, for the most part, which is what Serenity preferred. Soon enough they entered the large, behemoth of a tower, going through the atrium and into one of the branching corridors.

Upon entering her personal chambers, Lavinia would be greeted with a severe lack of decorations. Nothing but the bare necessities- a bed, a teaset, and a bath.

"I apologize for how dull it is in here, as I recently moved. I plan to renovate and decorate the rest, I just haven't found the time lately."

Serenity gestured to the upper level, leading the younger woman over to the teaset. It appeared brand new, as if she had never used it yet.

"I don't have any tea, but it makes for a nice seating area. Now-"

The witch folded her hands together, before setting them on top of the table. Her light red gaze met Lavinia's own, probing.

"Are you familiar with the dark arts? Occultism specifically?"
(Serenity Vander)
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[16:52] Lavinia didn't expect to return to the tower. A air of reluctance took hold in her, but she'd keep it contained. It wasn't fear, but mere caution. Things were getting hot among demons and it'd leave anyone anxious. Once inside and with no demon scuffle, Lavinia felt a bit more at ease.

Now, inside the room she'd be brought to, there'd be nothing particularly flagrant for the relatively simple Lavinia. It beat the overkill that was certain other places, and wasn't the giant empty cupboards owned by Tonashi.

"Prefer it nice and spacious, Lady Vander, m'hm."

She chimed, keeping things positive around here. A cushion was appropriated and a butt would be its boss. As well as a tail. No tea? Oh well.

A brief nod would come to be the only verbal answer required for Lavinia. It was better to show rather than tell, after all. Her index rose to about cheek level as a vortex of black mana converged onto the tip of the drakan claw, leaving a pure, vantablack orb to levitate over it.
(Lavinia Walters)
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[17:02] "Very good."

Serenity nodded in approval at her display of occultism. Despite being so young, she seemed to display the occultism required for witchcraft. Serenity had done similar in her youth, as most of the apprentice witches were expected to become familiar with the occult.

It served as an entrance point, at least. And while some didn't pursue further, those that did certainly didn't regret their choice.

"You've frequented Moonfall and this tower, so I'm sure that you're well aware of witchcraft and its power. Have you ever considered pursuing it further?"

While most witches attempted to keep their identities hidden, Serenity was a special case. Having lived the majority of her life within Atreylla, there was no reason to fear zealotry, nor was there reason to hide her craft.

They practiced freely and proudly, a sentiment that Serenity wouldn't abandon after moving. A keen eye would be quick to note the Star of Celestialism which she wore around her neck, the symbol of the religion which had burnt witches at the stake for centuries.

There was power to be found in wearing it so brazenly, proving that it had no power and demeaning its moral authority.

"The gifts of the Dark Lord are bountiful, to his servants at least."
(Serenity Vander)
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[17:10] Praise, how she liked that. A great motivator to do more. One sphere became two as they'd start to idly orbit around Lavini's being. A little show-off she was, yes!

"My teacher, Lady Lemuria, actually introduced me to the concept already, m'hm."

Her tone remained collected and there was no moment of surprise or confusion at the mention of witchcraft. Lavinia was definitely aware of it and likely had some exposure.

"Servants, y'say? Is that what you are, Lady Vander? A servant?"

She shifted her legs a bit, crossing them more comfortably as she'd centred her bottom adequately enough on the cushion. Arms crossed in parallel, with her claws drumming against her scaly forearm.

"I have agreed to pursue it though, yes. But, I'd like to want ya', Lady Vander, that I am not one to submit to others, m'hm! Many demons wish for me to do so. Some others encourage me to reject it. Bein' still human, and a dragon, I've opted for the second iteration of demonic culture, hehe."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[17:24] Serenity was unfamiliar with Lemuria, though she could only guess the woman was a witch of Elysium. And while there was nothing wrong with that, Serenity didn't quite like the idea of the Elysium coven getting yet another witch, not when there were better alternatives.

"In essence, all witches are technically 'servants' to the Dark Lord. Our rituals and the like are empowered through our connection to Helheim, which is only maintained because we signed our souls to serve him."

The witch extended her right wrist for Lavinia to observe, before muttering a single word.

"Veritas."

The cloaking spell wore off, a small, black pentagram materializing atop the skin of her right wrist.

"Upon signing your name into the Book of Shadows, witches receive this brand. It signifies your connection to the Dark Lord, the connection which both fuels and empowers you."

Some were stronger than others, like in all aspects of life. There were those who could naturally attune, while some were naturally born with the ability.

"The witches of Elysium are far more subservient, I would say. Skulking in the shadows and bowing to demons. Swearing fealty and bending over backwards, should the command be issued."

"We are the progenitors of Amalia Elaide, we are not spineless nor should we be cowards. It was she who brought demons into existence, and I've never sworn loyalty to any of her creation."

While her relationship to them was mutually beneficial, she was still wary of the demons. They were unpredictable, though most already knew that.
(Serenity Vander)
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[17:33] Lavinia's head tilted ever so slightly to the right as she'd peer down at the invisible marking left onto Serenity's being. At first, she furrowed her eyebrows, wondering what she should even look for, until the utterance of a spell followed suit. The brand was made visible.

"I see, huh. Nifty spell. But . . . What does it mean to sign yourself to the Dark Lord? What happens? What do I become?"

So many questions. So little time? It seemed they had plenty, for nobody was going to bother them here. Lavinia, for the ditzy little teen she had shown herself at be at first, was now particularly keen on exploring every little crevice of this deal.

"Elysium? Wanna explain the different factions 'n' schools of thought as if I know nothin' of 'em? Because, well, it's not like many witches enjoy sharing this information so easily. And demons, well, they're not exactly all thatcaring about your affairs, I found."

Narrowed eyes of scepticism reigned. As if she were testing Serenity. Someone had trained this young drakanite into more than just the occult. She was starting to really see the world as it was, how dark it could be. Never would she be swallowed by it every again.

"Heh, funnily enough, some witches believe the demons brought the occult to this world, and not the great Elaide. Peculiar, huh?"
(Lavinia Walters)
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[17:52] "You become his eternal servant, in both this life and the next. Some might call it a curse, but I find it a blessing. It is through his energy that we are empowered, through his will that we find redemption."

"Most people are iron-willed, unwilling to submit to something other than themselves. While this is understandable, natural, I don't believe our 'service' to the Dark Lord to be a traditional sort of service in the slightest."

Serenity raised a flat palm upwards, dark wisps and shadows materializing over her skin, beginning to take shape. Soon enough a large, old looking tome appeared. The crest of her family was emblazoned on the top, the same emblem which appeared on the golden circlet across her head.

Serenity rest the tome on the table, before opening it up to one of the starting pages. Lavinia would be quick to notice the parchment being entirely blank. The witch raised a thumb to her mouth, biting down and drawingblood.

No incantation was needed, as her blood dripped and seeped through the pages, words beginning to form and appear on the once blank pages. Serenity skimmed through the pages, before glancing back up to Lavinia.

"Are you willing to listen to a tale? If I am to explain the differences between the covens, I will need to start at the very beginning, so please make yourself comfortable."
(Serenity Vander)
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[18:01] "An eternal servant . . ."

The term was not particularly pleasant to take in, no. Not for Lavinia, that thrived on independence and assimilating the environment on her own. But still, she was willing to listen. After all, she was still bound to Daemia in a way.

"It's normal, for those of the dark to see themselves first. Demons only know this. Occultists are prone to it. Surely Mordred was similarly afflicted, until maybe his apotheosis."

She liked that word a lot- Apotheosis.

"I just . . . Feel like servitude is such a weakness to have as a human. I need to know more, Lady Vander. I need to be enlightened on this. For it is a darkness I am oh so not familiar to."

Palms pressed against her dress' edge and pushed down, essentially tugging it between her crossed legs in a sort of nervous positioning. Not so comfy, but now she was leaning forward, being extra attentive.

"Please, do tell, m'hm."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[18:27] "It's understandable why there'd be hesitation, as you didn't grow up hearing the same stories that I did. But I will do my best to explain, regardless."

Serenity flipped to a particular page, doing a quick read over to acquaint herself with the words.

"I belong to the fallen House of Vander, one of the preeminent families during the height of the Astyan Empire. My family at the time were mages of unparalleled skill, at least in regards to alchemy and drugs. As Astya expanded its reach and dominated the Brittanian countries, the Archmage Amalia Elaide began to delve into the dark arts."

"She willingly became the bride of the Dark Lord of Helheim, a pact which would extend beyond herself and to her entire lineage. She was bestowed great powers, the first and strongest witch ever recorded."

Serenity pauses, skimming through a few more pages.

"Amalia used these powers to bring the nightmares of man to life. Fears, desires- all manifesting into sentient beings, that which we refer to as demons today. With an army of demons behind her, as well as several noble families like my own, Amalia broke off from the council of Astya and declared war."

"She struck at Zechoris, sparking a war which would be known as the 'War of Nightmares.' The Archmage Mihail Petrakis formed a defensive, narrowly pushing back the forces of Amalia Elaide. The ensuing war spanned upwards of fifty years."

Serenity had only the written account of her ancestors who had lived during the time. Prone to mistakes, of course, though she believed what was written.

"When Amalia was finally defeated for good, those who supported her broke off into branches and scattered over the continent of Aegis. My family, alongside a few others, decided to live among the demons, founding the Atreyllan coven. While other witches formed different covens, one of which we know today asthe coven of Elysium."

"Many of the covens were destroyed in the centuries to follow, and at present there are only a few remaining. We have been mustering strength, awaiting the opportunity until we can properly usher in the new era that Amalia sought after."

Serenity sighed, closing the book.

"We intend to finish what she started, but this time without failure. Generations of witches have persevered and fought for this moment, and I don't intend to squander it."
(Serenity Vander)
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[18:37] A tale was being told, one most knew in the more secretive parts of witch societies. A tale of a woman and an army of nightmares. Amalia Elaide was common knowledge among even peasants, but other elements of this story was not always so easily known by the public.

Lavinia rested her elbow onto her thigh, allowing her chin to rest on her slightly less scaly palm, eyes beaming at the ginger witch. It was almost a fixation, with hardly any blinks. It was a source of answers for Lavinia, answers that could be a solution to her current obstacle.

But beyond being a solution, the aspect of growth lingered too. She was to become something greater. And witchcraft was certainly a means to gain a range of capabilities.

"Wait . . . I have a question about this."

Her support hand rose while her posture adjusted a bit, being less hunched than before though she tried to keep the faux-proximity to a degree.

"What is this new era? What does it mean for humans? Demons? And everythin' else? What did the dark lord want? What do YOU want?"
(Lavinia Walters)
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[18:50] "I couldn't begin to imagine what the Dark Lord sought to gain with this, honestly. More servants, perhaps? He gives us his power, but doesn't directly interfere with the realm of man. If he wanted to assert his dominance on the world, he would have done so without need of a middle man."

"So it leads me to believe he simply wants those who can serve."

Serenity could be wrong, which she knew, but could only interpret that which she knew. When signing her soul away, she heard whispers, vague words that she could only imagine belonged to him..

But oddly indiscernible, no clear commands.

"I believe that most humans were born to be nothing more than chattel, a pool of life essence for us to utilize and empower ourselves with. The Elysium witches tend to use their own blood, as well as nature as a source of essence.."

"But in Atreylla we used a more rich form of essence, directly from a fresh, human sacrifice. Most non-magi can make adequate slaves, other than being chattel."

Serenity smiled, despite the malicious words she was speaking.

"A world in which demons reign supreme, but witches have ultimate control. I personally believe that the demons have grown far too confident in their own abilities, forgetting the fact that it was us who brought created them to begin with."

"They have forgotten their God, and I'd like to make them remember. Though it is something that must be done with a great deal of patience and caution."
(Serenity Vander)
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[18:58] It was thanks to the teachings of witches and demons that Lavinia could actually make a strong opinion of the core beliefs of branches in these societies. How ironic. Her arms crossed with her gaze getting more narrow when scrutinizing the woman before her.

"But I'm curious, Lady Vander. Very curious about somethin'."

Certainly, the malefic nature of what this witch had been saying was off-putting, but also completely fit the rhetoric of the tower demons. It wasn't surprising whatsoever to Lavinia. But, what was intriguing, was what the drakanite would do with this information now that she had some perspective.

"Why do you not make the demons your slaves, instead? They have power but they are uncoordinated. Humans are so power when they are not limited. Demons are by birth, limited."

Her fingers drummed against her arms again.

"Shouldn't the natural order than be the opposite? Or is it perhaps that demons fear humanity's power so much that they can only enslave them to keep a degree of control?"

It wasn't truly her thoughts here, but rather the ones made by demons that grew to understand the sad realities of this world. No true demon society thrived. And when it did for a time, it was destined to failure, while humans always stood tall. There was a reason, and the teen was understanding this thanks to demons, no less.

"The Great Elaide led the army of nightmares, and cause Mordred to reach perfection. Is it not clear that there is one party far superior to the other?"
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:13] "That is a good question."

Serenity nodded, the book which she had summoned now beginning to fade into shadows and wisps, before disappearing altogether. Serenity leaned forward on the table, her reds meeting Lavinia's gaze.

"If I am to be completely blunt, I am not currently strong enough to challenge the top demon. There are certain things which she is pursuing currently that I agree with, that being the study of Cambions."

"A human-demon hybrid, a perfect being bearing the blood of both."

Definitely something she didn't want to ruin yet, her situation being manageable for the most part. It was odd, really, that she trusted Lavinia so soon. Perhaps due to her seeming aptitude.

"I also intend to establish my own coven, independent from that of the Elysium witches. I wish to make witchcraft more common, for the elite who are able to practice it properly. No longer will witches stick to the shadows, forit is time to finally step into the light."

As for her other questions.

"I believe that a strong human mage could go toe to toe on equal terms with a strong demon. In that sense, I suppose they are equal. However, I think witchcraft gives human witches a slight edge, but that is merely my opinion."

"These plans require a great amount of time, as well as work on my part. But that is why I have come to you, Lavinia, hoping that you will become my apprentice and help me usher in this new era. The next generation of witches will be the ones who carry that which we build, after all."
(Serenity Vander)
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[19:27] Now, Lavinia wasn't someone too sinister, despite appearances. If anything, she was one to always break the mould. But at this moment, one could only quality her toothy, stretched grin as that- Sinister. The gaze reeking of desire and greed, fixating the woman who had exposed so much after so little.

"Human-demon Hybrids, you say? Oh my, have we really dived into the most irredeemable waters of the dark~"

Her posture was no long as defensive. Instead, one hand served as support for her elbow as her risen hand had its corresponding index poke against her cheek.

"You must've thought of it too, though, hmm? That demons are, maybe, merely weapons for the progenitor humans. Perhaps your coven could be less . . . Blindly devoted to entities incapable of choice as we are."

A few taps on her cheek followed suit.

"Y'see, I actually am growin' fond of demons. And I don't believe enlavin' them all is the key. I do believe a dark lord could usher in a world adequate for people like us to really THRIVE!"

She rose her tone on that last word. Someone was quite passionate about thriving.

"But it won't be a world of enslavement. No. That is how humans will always stand above demons, and witches will devour each other in inevitable opportunity! Humanity cannot be chained, Lady Vander! And I hope your dogma recognizes that."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:35] Given that Veles had exposed her Cambions among human visitors and a Warlord of Theria, Serenity was confident in spilling the details to a would-be apprentice. There was trust that had to be built, after all, and if things went wrong Serenity would simply retreat into the shadows.

Where she liked it best, alone and in her quarters. This was all a gamble anyways, an attempt to actually do something other than further her own research.

"I believe that these Cambions may be the key to bridge that gap, perhaps. If it works how I believe it will, I intend to become one of them. A being of both blood, I believe it will only serve to strengthen my craft."

Lavinia's words were heard, and while Serenity would always have a superiority complex, she nodded.

"I believe that there could be a good middle ground, yes. A way to manipulate them without them being aware of it. Playing it smart, if that makes sense. We witches can sway the minds of demons and humans alike, after all."
(Serenity Vander)
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[19:43] Suddenly, a clap of her hands! It seemed a sinister air wasn't too necessary anymore, as the teen had found something to be excited over. Oh yes, more opportunities. More ways for her to finally because the dragon she was meant to be. A Dark Dragon of destruction, of course.

"I wanna see one of these err . . . Cambions. They must be pretty powerful, if they can wield human and demons capabilities! Probably what would scare both knights and demons alike."

She smiled.

"It may be wise to convince humans you're giving them a better world, and actually do so. The dark brings progress and change. They'll be afraid, but you will be their guiding light, m'hm."

A small crack could be heard from her left hand, as it seemed some of scales had turned to dust. Where there were once scales, there'd not be pale flesh and a light, occultic flame.

"Do not forget, Lady Vander, that while you're a witch, and I am a dragon, we are still humans with the power to choose. M'hm."
(Lavinia Walters)
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[19:58] "I don't believe Veles intends to keep them a secret from the world, and I know of a couple of them. I can introduce you, at a later time."

Serenity smiles, definitely approving of her eagerness. There was a slight hesitance, however, as most who delved in the occultic arts only sought their own gain.

Serenity was no exception to this, either. They both stood to gain from the arrangement.

"A coven can not stand upon one person alone, and this is why I need brilliant, young minds like your own. I am willing to teach, to show you the ancient dark arts."

"But the choice is yours and yours alone, Lavinia."
(Serenity Vander)
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[20:07] "Then I'll be seein' one of them soon. I just hope they won't be too disappointing. I have a bad habit of getting my hopes up."

A light yawn escaped her lips as she sought to stretch herself a little bit. Sitting on these cushions, especially after her previous posture, was quite healthy for the back!

"Oh, I'm interested in this experiment of yours, this coven. And of course, the arts of the witches. Though, do understand Lady Vander that I will have to ponder this idea further after we depart, m'hm."

"But yes, the choice is mine, ain't it? I'll tell you what."

Her index rose to eye level as if raising her hand to answer a question, but she was that shy kid.

"After Lady Veles and Mister Seneval have their duel that'll decide the fate of our little demonic land, I'll likely have a decision. Call me fairweather! But we have to change depending on conditions, us beings of the dark~"
(Lavinia Walters)
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[20:21] Serenity thought back to the Cambions she had encountered so far. They were... Interesting, to stay the least.

Lavinia's last words, however, caused Serenity to quirk a brow.

"I would advise against putting your stake or loyalty on any which side. As a witch of Atreylla, I know better than any other not to get caught up in the squabbles of demons."

"It was the only way my coven survived for centuries. Demons often challenge each other for supremacy, it happens on a daily basis."

It was a dangerous game to play, putting your stake in one side or the other. With wrong loyalty, you could potentially end up getting killed.

"It doesn't matter to me who sits on the throne, or which demon is in charge. My plan will remain the same as it has been, as we witches do not concern ourselves with their antics."
(Serenity Vander)
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[20:21] Lavinia Walters says, "Who said anythin' about loyalty? But, who sits on the throne, will determine how some of us get by."
[20:23] Serenity Vander says, "Perhaps you know something I don't, because it doesn't seem all that significant to me."
[20:25] Lavinia Walters says, "Well, simple, Lady Veles see us, the humans, as inferior and only worthy of serving! Mister Seneval, on the other hand, has a more . . . Essharan approach. Sees more potential in humans."
[20:25] Lavinia Walters exclaims, "Understandably, the way we conduct ourselves will vary depending on who governs!"
[20:26] Serenity Vander says, "Truly? I've never had issue with Veles treating me as a servant. She's approached me and spoke with me as an equal. But I suppose my view is biased in that regard."
[20:26] Lavinia Walters says, "Oh, Lady Veles is great. But, her views are clear."
[20:27] Lavinia Walters says, "Her daughter, my /friend/, Daemia says the same."
[20:28] Serenity Vander says, "Well, we will simply have to wait and see, in that case. I appreciate you meeting with me regardless."
[20:30] Lavinia Walters exclaims, "I really liked this, actually!"
[20:31] Lavinia Walters says, "Your coven idea excites me, it's promising. "
[20:31] Lavinia Walters says, "I'll give you my answer soon, m'hm."
[20:32] Serenity Vander says, "Very well. I suppose we should depart, if you'll follow me."