The dawn's light visits Dawn

[18:14] Sa gestured for those gathered to come closer.

"I want to lead a patrol," she explained. Where?

"The volcano."

Why?

"I saw things."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[18:17] Anzeti would approach Sa of the ones gathered near, "Did you see vampires or something up there?"

Sky blue hues looked a bit hard to read for a moment before clearing up, "What did you see stirring up there?"
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[18:18] Sa Awaret says, "When Shezmu and I were up there the other day, I saw something."
[18:18] Sa Awaret says, "I'm not sure what I saw."
[18:18] Sa Awaret says, "I.. was meditating."
[18:19] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Hmm.."
[18:20] Anzeti seems to pause in thought over it for a bit to herself, "Isn't the volcano a fair distance away though?.. Shouldn't we be more concerned with the demons lurking around?"
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[18:20] Sa Awaret says, "Shezmu I thought had done patrols to flush them out of the woods.."
[18:22] Anzeti imagined a chibi Shezmu chasing chibi demons away and off his lawn.
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[18:22] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Mhm."
[18:22] Anzeti Hajara says, "..I'll go along the party going"
[18:22] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Uhh.."
[18:22] Sa stared up at Shezmu, wide eyed!
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[18:23] Shezmu La'Heba says, "A battle first."
[18:23] Anzeti Hajara says, "<O- oh boy>"
[18:24] Sa Awaret asks, "..ooh?"
[18:24] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Mhm."
[18:24] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Warm up and a test."
[18:24] Shezmu La'Heba says, "To see if we will be safe out there."
[18:25] Sa Awaret exclaims, "Okay, Shezmu! Lets warm up!"
[18:26] Anzeti Hajara says, "<Is it wise for an ice magi to warm up?.. The cold never bothered me anyways.>"
[18:28] Shezmu La'Heba says, "So I guess.."
[18:28] Shezmu La'Heba asks, "If I win, you have to stay, hm?"
[18:28] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Or at least gather one more person to accompany."
[18:28] Shezmu La'Heba says, "I really care for your safety, you know."
[18:28] Anzeti Hajara asks, "Both of us?"
[18:29] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Mhm."
[18:29] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Should be an easy battle."
[18:29] Shezmu La'Heba says, "For you two."
[18:30] Anzeti Hajara says, "I was about to say I changed since we last fought"
[18:31] Anzeti Hajara says, "Even though I'm not in my optimal condition right now nor at my peak"
[18:31] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Then I'll go for you first."
[18:31] Shezmu La'Heba says, "No hard feelings."
[18:31] Anzeti Hajara says, "None taken"
[18:31] Anzeti Hajara says, "I wanted to fight you anyways"
[19:10] Anzeti Hajara asks, "..See anything?"
[19:14] Thinking the chest abandoned, she traced her finger against the lock. A beam of cosmic energy and fire, with all the radiant hope of the dawn, melted the lock. One might have thought that the person who had broken the lock had crouched, but examining the small and petite footprints in the volcanic ash, one got the sense that they'd just bent over slightly!

Hands glowing with the full and burning energy of the sun, she had reached down and threw the chest open. Leaving the exact imprint of her delicate fingers, her palms, in the chests' metal. An echo of a distinctly hopeful, distinctly merciful aura lingered.
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:14] Sa Awaret says, "O-0oh.."
[19:14] Shezmu La'Heba asks, "What is it?"
[19:14] Sa Awaret says, "I feel bad.. it's just farming implements.."
[19:15] {Item} You drop Watering Can.
[19:15] {Item} You picked up Watering Can. Dropped by Sa Awaret. .
[19:15] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Probably the vampires.."
[19:16] Anzeti Hajara says, "I know Volcanoes can make soil rich but on a volcano is kina-"
[19:16] Anzeti Hajara says, "That makes more sense"
[19:16] Anzeti Hajara says, "The snow is too cold"
[19:16] Sa Awaret asks, "... if it is vampires, should I take what they've grown then?"
[19:16] Anzeti Hajara says, "Well..."
[19:16] Sa Awaret asks, "...but.. vampires dont eat, do they?"
[19:17] Sa Awaret says, "No.. I'm going to leave it.."
[19:17] Sa Awaret says, "I was just curious.."
[19:17] Anzeti Hajara says, "Their prisoners need to eat"
[19:17] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Mhm."
[19:17] Shezmu La'Heba says, "The Thralls and Ghouls."
[19:17] Shezmu La'Heba says, "But do leave it."
[19:17] Anzeti Hajara says, "I doubt many of them have a choice"
[19:20] Sa Awaret says, "Okay.. I don't know what I'm doing.."
[19:20] Sa looked down at her feet.
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:22] Shezmu La'Heba says, "No demons in sight."
[19:22] Shezmu La'Heba says, "I wonder where they hide.."
[19:23] Sa smiled at Shezmu.

"That's good, right?"

The volcano was all around them. Molten larva bubbling away, glowing red-hot.
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:24] Anzeti Hajara says, "Well.. I rather they hide than terrorize people"
[19:25] Shezmu La'Heba says, "True."
[19:25] Sa Awaret says, "Ehe. They're probably hiding because of you, Shezmu"
[19:26] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Wow.."
[19:27] Shezmu La'Heba asks, "Am I really that scary..?"
[19:27] Anzeti Hajara says, "I heard you chased them off"
[19:27] Sa Awaret exclaims, "Only to bad guys!"
[19:27] Anzeti Hajara says, "With your strength I don't doubt that..."
[19:27] Anzeti Hajara says, "It makes me scared that Kirza will surpass me sooner rather than later"
[19:29] Shezmu La'Heba asks, "Have we checked the caves?"
[19:29] Anzeti Hajara says, "Not thoroughly..."
[19:29] Sa Awaret exclaims, "We should!"
[19:32] Sa Awaret says, "I mean.. we were invited to Dawn, by their leader.. "
[19:33] Sa Awaret says, "I -did- want to see what they were doing with my own eyes.."
[19:33] Shezmu La'Heba asks, "Want to visit?"
[19:33] Sa Awaret says, "Well.. yes. But it might be awful."
[19:33] Sa Awaret asks, "Are we all prepared for that?"
[19:34] Anzeti Hajara says, "I am.."
[19:34] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Mmh."
[19:34] Shezmu La'Heba says, "I am your sword and shield, Sultana."
[19:36] Sa Awaret asks, "Is this.. Dawn?"
[19:36] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Mhm."
[19:36] Shezmu La'Heba says, "I recall battles of war nearby."
[19:37] Gideon Ruger says, "Interesting."
[19:42] Mona appears, and simply stands there. Looming.
(Mona Otaria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:43] With bright eyes, Sa Awaret took in the sights and sounds of the city of Dawn, murmuring to her companions.

Until.. they found the centre of it all. Or at least, she assumed it was the centre. Her amber gaze cast over those gathered, a smile at her lips becoming somewhat forced as literally everyone lined up.

The petite Sarradian wore the light from the sun around her like a garment. Relentless and irrepressible, the cosmic aura thrummed around her.

"Ullih, friends." She finally said, heart shaped sceptre in one hand. The other, palms up. Her voice was lilting, heavily accented.

She directed her smile towards the crowd. "I am impressed! What a welcome Dawn gives Deseti."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:47] It's a surprise they decided to come here.

As far as he remembered, Deseti attempted to assist Dawn with Vampires, but it didn't quite come through- after that, there were neither friendliness nor hostility between the two, so it's safe to assume that it's fairly neutral.

And that's exactly the sort of offering that is given to them - neutral.

"Greetings."

Of course there would be a greeting like that. It's not everyday occurrence that people come over for such a meeting, but he could already assume that Deseti wanted something - otherwise, they wouldn't come here. Then again, that applies to everyone, does it not?

"Of course. Can't greet rare guests otherwise."

"I assume you've come here for a purpose?"
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:48]
They've always been orderly in these types of situations. For the most part, it was instilled upon them within their academy days...But other than that...It didn't mean that there were any hostilities. Infact, those that entered were regarded with nothing more than idle curiosity. "It's not every day that the lot of you would show up unannounced.." She says, nodding once, twice.

"Is there anything that you three need or- ah...Are you here to discuss something?" After all, she's genuinely curious. Maybe, it's about the vampires, right? Or...Is there something more that she might be missing?
(Bei Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:48] Taking mild interest in the crowd from Desti Gideon reclines himself towards the bench. Sitting side by side from his Undead warrior. A slight pause was given as he watched the two leaders eye each other wondering if this was Deseti coming to offer. Actual Aid in routing out the vampires...Gideon cleared his mind and began to load his pipe filled with soothing reed as he watched from afar.
(Gideon Ruger)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:49] He recognized those who stood in the line from their previous meeting but for the most part, his eyes scanned the city itself, since it was actually his first time being within it.

There wasn't much stated from the La'Heba, besides his respectful greeting in the form of a simple nod.
(Shezmu La'Heba)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:49] Sky blue eyes scanned around the place that was New Valmasia. It's been a while since she stuck her head in here looking for a kit. The woman's gentle hues would fall upon the people there to meet them.

She wondered what they were meeting here to address, but things seemed friendly enough to her for there to be no actual concern other than what she should eat for dinner.

The Valmasians here looked strong.
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:55] Deseti had attempted to assist Dawn with the vampiric threat, but the combination of distance between Deseti and Dawn and the increased vampiric attacks on their own holdings had prevented the Sarradians from following through.

Until, apparently, now.

There was no denying that Sa seemed somewhat uneasy. There was something prickling at the back of her senses. Something distinctly unfamiliar and alien that she couldn't quite put her finger on.

Likely had something to do with finding herself at odds with the general vibe of necromancy within Dawn.

But still, she pushed through.

"A purpose, yes," she agreed, dimples at her cheeks as she directed a somewhat more genuine smile towards Arthur, and Bei, and then the rest of those gathered.

"Still about our friends, the vampires. Though, I wouldn't say no to a tour. I've never visited your city before it is very.." she hesitated. "..interesting."

Moving right along.

"Should I have made an appointment? I thought it best if I just came, considering how much time has passed already."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[19:57] Ludovic Grauhimmel whispers something.
[19:58] Mona Otaria whispers something.
[20:01] * You have been awarded 0.5 Roleplay Points! *
[20:01] Ludovic Grauhimmel whispers something.
[20:01] Luckily for Sa, she found Arthur in a good mood, well enough to continue a somewhat relaxed, neutral conversation even on a topic like this- though, it's clear that they're fairly late on the news, and once the mention of Vampires comes by, he glances at Bei briefly, before turning his attention towards the Sarradian.

"I see."

"As for the tour, there isn't that much to see. Judging by direction you came from, I'm certain that you've seen plenty of the city - and this is its center, with the fortification over there."

Partially, a lie. There were of course things of notice, something he wouldn't talk about, considering that Dawn was place of researchers that spent a lot of their time on different interesting projects, but--

-- such information is only for very trusted, close people.

"It is fine if you just come here as well. We may simply not be around at the moment, or pre-occupied with something else if given no notice. But considering you stumbled upon us, there's no issue."

"And... about Vampires, is it something that you wanted to speak about in privacy, or it's for public ears as well?"
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[20:03] Sa Awaret says, "I am not particularly bothered about privacy, considering Deseti's position on the disease afflicting Argartha.."
[20:03] Sa Awaret says, "Our position is very public."
[20:04] Potayo asks, "What do you mean..?"
[20:04] Gideon Ruger says, "Some plots are better not spoken in public however, If its just your postion I thought that was made clear a few years ago."
[20:04] Bei Rowan says, "She's referring to vampires being a disease."
[20:04] Potayo says, "oh, i see."
[20:05] Sa Awaret says, "Sorry, this is not my first tongue.. Some things do not translate well from Sarradian, perhaps.."
[20:05] Arthur Rowan says, "It is fine."

[20:09] Sa Awaret grew thoughtful. Visibly reconsidering, as she rested her hand against her chin.

"Hm."

If she suspected that Arthur Rowan lied to her about not being much to see, she certainly did not give any indication as such.

Though. Really, logically. One had to assume there was more to see than what she had witnessed on her short stroll into the city.

Sa smiled.

"I will take your lead."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[20:14] Of course there were more to see, but a lot of interesting points that were there about Dawn, unfortunately, would be left out from the Sarradian's view and knowledge. He imagines that if he were to stroll into someone else's city, he would not be exposed to its secrets or the hidden treasures.

It's only fair, right?

"Certainly. You can follow, I'll show you around in that case."

Promptly, he turns on his feet, his general direction changed towards the east. It seems he's heading off somewhere, expecting the group of Deseti to follow.
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[20:22] Gideon Ruger says, "Hm, If you have need of me Arthur I'll be training. This war needs to end already."
[20:23] Arthur Rowan says, "It will soon, Gideon."
[20:31] Sylvester Ruger asks, "Did..I miss something big brother?"
[20:32] Gideon Ruger says, "Not really. "
[20:33] Gideon Ruger says, "This just so happens to be the state of things. Deseti has once again pledged themself to wiping out the vampires along side us it seems."
[20:34] Eldira Eden asks, "Anyone seen Tessa around? Arthur?"
[20:34] Sylvester Ruger says, "As if that went well last time.."
[20:34] Arthur Rowan says, "No, I did not."
[20:34] Shezmu La'Heba says, "I joined the battle the last time."
[20:34] Gideon Ruger says, "Hm yes well."
[20:35] Shezmu La'Heba says, "And I still normally do scouts to the north if that means anything."
[20:35] Eldira Eden says, "Hrm, she apparently came this way though.."
[20:35] Gideon Ruger asks, "The vampires are few theres little need to focus so much attention on them....Speaking of which Arthur when you're done with your tour might we have words?"
<Arthur starts giving a tour>
[20:36] Arthur Rowan says, "This area is, ah--"
[20:37] Arthur Rowan says, "It's where most of Dawn people practice their skills. We prefer open area over confined arena."
[20:37] Arthur Rowan says, "And the border, with the cave that leads up towards Vampires. Fortunately, they are never bold to exit here."
[20:38] Shezmu La'Heba says, "It seems they aren't even bold enough to sit in the caves like they used to."
[20:38] Arthur Rowan says, "We've been doing a lot of work."
[20:38] Arthur Rowan says, "The fortification to the south, and some more houses to the north."
[20:38] Arthur Rowan says, "And--"
[20:39] Arthur Rowan says, "--A swing."
[20:39] Arthur Rowan says, "The statue over there."
[20:39] Arthur Rowan says, "...More houses, and of course, the Academy classroom."
[20:39] Sa Awaret asks, "..what do you teach there?"
[20:40] Arthur Rowan says, "Whatever people are looking for. The most popular subject is Necromancy and perfecting it."
[20:40] Sa Awaret says, "I.. see."
[20:40] Arthur Rowan says, "Look around yourself and you won't find a single rotten Undead. That's what we're teaching."
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "I believe this is the household of the Neries."
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "And... more houses, of course."
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "Research facility to your right as well."
[20:41] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Hmmm.."
[20:41] Sa Awaret asks, "..more research into.. the undead?"
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "Yes and no."
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "We research many things."
[20:41] Tim Cobblestone exclaims, "Stinky Stinky wheres my Binky!"
[20:41] Tim Cobblestone asks, "Whats this, a tour?"
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "...Tim, not now. Frank is probably at the border."
[20:41] Arthur Rowan says, "And yes."
[20:42] Tim Cobblestone exclaims, "Show them my BAR!"
[20:42] Tim Cobblestone exclaims, "COME TO TINY TIMS!"
[20:42] Arthur Rowan says, "Uhh..."
[20:42] Arthur Rowan says, "Certainly."
[20:42] Tim Cobblestone exclaims, "AH HAH HAH HAH!"
[20:42] Tim Cobblestone exclaims, "THIS WAY!"
[20:42] Arthur Rowan says, "Mm..."
[20:42] Tim Cobblestone says, "Yea, i got it all."
[20:42] Arthur Rowan says, "And... Tim's bar, as he said."
[20:43] Arthur Rowan says, "I think you've seen all of a city by now."
[20:43] Tim Cobblestone says, "Wings, Tea, chips, crumpets, bagels, coffee, and some other weird stuff."
[20:43] Tim Cobblestone says, "I a special menu too but thats for REAL hunters only."
[20:43] Sa Awaret says, "I see."
[20:45] Shezmu La'Heba says, "Ehehe."
[20:47] Tim grabs a cup of tea and begins to pour it until it overflows. His blood stricken eyes pulsate as he walks toward the group with piping hot tea, cackling like a cursed hyena, getting louder and louder with each step.

Boiling tea was spilling over the cup, burning his fingers, yet his insanity continued to persist and hold steadfast.

"AHAHAHA FUCK THAT BURNS!"

He yelled, stumbling over the cushion, he tripped faced forward.

The hunter persevered and hit a full barrel roll somehow not spilling anything in his cup.

He then looks at Shezmu with the cup and exhales from behind his mask, a cloud of steam shoots out from his pipes.

"WANT A GLASS CHUM? I CAN BUT SOME SCOTCH IN 'ER!" He roars.

His fingers were covered in chamomile tea and his face was struck with excitement.
(Tim Cobblestone)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[20:55] For the longest moment, Sa Awaret had hoped that the lack of rotting, shambling corpses getting about meant that Arthur and the rest of Dawn were leaning towards becoming apostates of their faith.. or at the very least were easing of on the necromancy.

Oh, foolish Sa.

The Sarradian's eyelashes had fluttered, all but cuddling her cheeks before she opened her eyes as if seeing the city anew.

Undead that didn't rot. She knew so very little about the topic, she wasn't certain on how she should feel.

Silent, she decided to settle on mild concern and to mark the faces of those they passed one, by one. Committing it all to memory.

The invitation to venture into a bar was a surprise, but not unwelcome.

But what she witnessed inside was.. well.

Sa Awaret STARED.

"Umm.." She exhaled, before reaching inside her bag and retrieving a parcel wrapped in wax paper. A kind of pastry, sweeted with rosewater and a lot of sugar.

"I brought some Sarradian sweets with me. They.. are unlikely to injure anyone."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:08]
{LOAD GAME}

[21:08] Anzeti blinks a bit more before offering a smile.
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:08] Arthur Rowan says, "I am not exactly much of a cook."
[21:09] Tim Cobblestone says, "Who cooks between you two anyway.."
[21:09] Arthur Rowan says, "My servants do."
[21:09] Tim Cobblestone says, "Lame."
[21:09] Tim Cobblestone says, "See ya."
[21:09] Sa momentarily blanked everything out..
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:10] Arthur Rowan says, "As you wished to discuss the topic of Vampires--"
[21:10] Arthur Rowan asks, "What is it specifically you were going to talk about?"
[21:11] Sa Awaret says, "I wished to reiterate our offer of.. assistance."
[21:11] Sa Awaret says, "I hoped in doing so, you would be inclined to share what you know of their defenses."
[21:11] Sa Awaret says, "...and abilities."
[21:12] Arthur Rowan says, "You're quite late. We've already broken them and tomorrow we march at them."
[21:12] Sa Awaret says, "Well.. better late than never.."
[21:13] Arthur Rowan says, "As for their strengths--"
[21:13] Arthur Rowan says, "You're not dealing with typical magi, not by a long shot. Their speed, their strength, and even the potency of their curse - they're all overwhelming."
[21:14] Arthur Rowan says, "Avoid being hit at all costs, and try to maintain the upperhand in battle by controlling its flow, should you fix one."
[21:14] Arthur Rowan says, "For comparison--"
[21:14] Arthur Rowan says, "Not even some of the strongest magi can at least come close to defeating me."
[21:14] Arthur Rowan says, "And yet--"
[21:15] Arthur Rowan says, "The moment I let down my guard just for a moment in a fight against Vampire, I was almost killed."
[21:15] Shezmu nods.
(Shezmu La'Heba)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:15] Shezmu La'Heba says, "The Vampires are quite formidable."
[21:16] Arthur Rowan says, "That they are. Also--"
[21:16] Arthur Rowan says, "In case you were looking for absolute annihilation of Vampires, I'm afraid this is the road you'll have to walk alone. They're surrendering to us."
[21:16] Arthur Rowan says, "Assuming they will not go back to their word as our army approaches, it will end with signed surrender from their side."
[21:16] Sa Awaret says, "I.. see."
[21:16] Sa Awaret asks, "What does this mean for Dawn?"
[21:16] Arthur Rowan says, "For Dawn, that means safety of our people. We're not keen on warring with other human settlements."
[21:16] Sa Awaret says, "...they're.. not human."
[21:17] Arthur Rowan says, "No, no--"
[21:17] Arthur Rowan says, "Allow me to finish."
[21:17] Sa listened.
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:17] Arthur Rowan says, "I do not enjoy the presence of either Vampires or Demons. In fact, if I could and it were up to me, Tragedy would be gone."
[21:17] Arthur Rowan says, "Alongside with Vampires, that is."
[21:18] Arthur Rowan says, "But Vampires are just animals that indirectly keep the safety of my people."
[21:18] Arthur Rowan says, "You see--"
[21:18] Arthur Rowan says, "While Dawn and Deseti may have no brewing conflict, it's probably no secret for you that Huangzhou is, hm--"
[21:18] Arthur Rowan says, "It has a lot to say about us."
[21:18] Anzeti scratches her head a bit.
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:18] Sa Awaret says, "I.. aim for peace, for all humanity."
[21:19] Arthur Rowan says, "Perhaps that is your goal, and I have no qualms with it."
[21:19] Arthur Rowan says, "I'm afraid Huangzhou does not share such vision."
[21:19] Arthur Rowan says, "I cannot cull down my men in war against Vampires and basically allow opportunity to be annihilated."
[21:19] Arthur Rowan says, "Vampires were broken, and their numbers diminished greatly. That is enough for me, and they agreed to surrender."
[21:20] Anzeti Hajara says, "Because that would disadvantage you against Huang"
[21:20] Anzeti Hajara asks, "If they strike, right?"
[21:20] Arthur Rowan says, "Correct."
[21:20] Arthur Rowan says, "I'm not blind. I can see what Huangzhou is waiting for."
[21:20] Arthur Rowan says, "I'm not very keen on doing their work for them and getting killed as most of my army is weakened or weary."
[21:21] Arthur Rowan says, "So--"
[21:21] Arthur Rowan says, "Vampires are already broken, as I said, and they're pressured to remain where they are. For now, they're surrendering to Dawn."
[21:21] Arthur Rowan says, "But if you want to push for their annihilation--"
[21:21] Arthur Rowan says, "Well, good luck. I will neither help nor stop you."
[21:22] Sa Awaret says, "I find no joy in bringing destruction on creatures, even such as these. But if they persist, they will continue to inflict their sickness."
[21:22] Sa Awaret says, "But. Very well."
[21:22] Arthur Rowan says, "I am aware. My people were threatened back in the day by their existence, which is why this war started."
[21:22] Arthur Rowan says, "But as Adjudicator of Dawn, I must take care of my people first and foremost."
[21:22] Arthur Rowan says, "And doing that is doing what I've spoken about."
[21:30] Somehow, Sa Awaret didn't seem too surprised.

"I regret being unable to act sooner. Perhaps this could have been avoided, had fate been kinder."

Her tone was intensely diplomatic.

The petite woman stood tall, stray beams of sunlight refracting around her. It gave her almost the appearance of being backlit.
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:37] Such is the nature of Chaos magi, after all. They're terribly selfish in what they do - and while such energy could be arguably directed for something that benefits others, essentially, it would only be done for as long as the practitioner of Chaos sees benefit in it on his own.

"We were never truly helped by any side."

"I am certain that Shezmu here tried to assist, but ah... we know it didn't quite matter, unfortunately. Same goes for Crafthold, whom only sent Iosefka's daughter once - even then, she came out of her own wish."

"And she was captured, only for us to free her later on. Huangzhou never assisted us either, so we do not hold many positive sentiments about them."

"We were left alone against overwhelmingly powerful immortals."

She must understand. Besides, if Sultanah were in Arthur's shoes, how exactly wouldshe act when people suddenly turned their attention to Dawn, only after they managed to defeat the Vampires?

It doesn't feel right.

"Also, Sultanah… I wanted to inform you of something."

Slowly does his hand rise up to his mask, sliding it off; beneath it, there's the glare of crimson eye that seems to spark and glow, perhaps from the energy he holds or something else. Nonetheless, he soon speaks.

"You see, I am... quite a selfish man."

"As such, I do not follow doctrines that others believe we do. We perfect Necromancy, yes, but we perfect it for ourselves. If I'm honest, I could care less about making others immortal - it's a hassle, it's exhausting, and people don't appreciate it anyway."

With a pause, he raised his gloved hand, lightly brushing against the content of his chest armor. With rhetorical gesture by his hand, he speaks.

"We only pursue eternal life and eternal youth for ourselves."

"So should Huangzhou try and persuade you to attack us, because of some righteous goal to defeat Necromancy..."

"Just don't. This isn't your fight. We've fought exceedingly powerful immortals already, the Vampires, and we've beaten them back. Fighting humans, on the other hand?"

"It would be a walk in the park for us."

His hand goes lower, back behind him to join the other one, and he adds.

"So do not hold false ideas on what we do and what we pursue. It'll do you a great favour in the long run."
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[21:52] The man was kind of spooky when he removed his mask. The way his eyes gleamed and illuminated the room. The air of the room grew colder and the light somewhat friendly teetering to formal feel of the room grew a bit hostile as a warning was issued.

Sky blue eyes shyed away after two seconds of looking at the man like this. She could tell he wasn't just talking shit. They certainly had the power to deal with other people as they were teetering on the edge of becoming something like monsters themselves if they weren't already and given how suspicous Arthur grew of Huang it didn't surprise her all that much when he addressed Deseti in this way.

It was also clear that the man was not lying for a second of his intentions and reasoning... A hand idly goes in either of the Sarradian's woman's own pocket as she reflects on what she learned today for a second.

Sky blue hues then wondered over to the Sultan to see how she'd react to this.
(Anzeti Hajara)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[22:12] Sa, once more, was silent. She listened to Arthur's little speech, some slight stiffness to her limbs as he went on and on and on.

Oh, she understood.

Or at least, she felt she did.

The Sarradian got the distinct feeling that Arthur was filled with bitter resentment. Whatever reasons she had for not having come sooner, valid or not, those of Dawn would not hear them. Honestly, the only thing which kept her biting her bottom lip and NOT pointing out the fact that it was patently absurd to expect Huangzhou to leap to Dawn's aid when Dawn was built out of Jianghuan bones was, well. It would have been quite rude to do so.

I wanted to inform you of something.

"Oh?" She exhaled, sunbeams reflexively solidifying around her as she found herself STARING into crimson eyes that seemed to spark and glow. That prickling sensation at the back of her neck intensified.

He spoke about his reasons for practicing necromancy. Her fingers - hands by her sides! - slowly curled into a fist. There were some similarities perhaps between herself and Arthur. She cared deeply for her people, and she was herself, a student of the arcane. Though, that was where the similarities may have ended.

After all, Sa Awaret was drawn to order.

To peace.

To all things interlinked, connected, working as it should.

She bristled momentarily, before exhaling.

"Would you say that there was any chance of resolving.. whatever it is you're doing here.. diplomatically?"

Her amber gaze briefly tracked upwards, as if she were looking to the sky. They were inside, but.. somehow the light around her intensified.

"I will not waste your time, or my time, trying to defend things past. I will not dwell on regrets. I will not speak for Huangzhou. They have their reasons for things. I have my reasons for mine. It is no secret that I am deeply uncomfortable with necromancy, with.. all of this.."

She paused, gesturing around them, but perhaps meaning Dawn itself.

"..but you are human. I have to believe that you are capable of redemption. Deserving of being spoken to as an equal. That you and your people deserve an avenue, as do ours, of moving forward towards something.. good. A future where our people aren't preyed upon by vampires, by demons, for example.."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[22:22] As much as everyone spreads the rumours that Azraelites wish to turn the world into lifeless, barren land full of Undead, Arthur was far from sharing such vision- in fact, he despised the idea of living out his days as some rotting corpse that had no choice of their own and no future ahead of themselves. No, he pursued eternal youth along with eternal life, for himself and his people.

As for the rest of the world? It can keep going as it is now. He has no interests in turning the world upside down.

But Awaret has gotten something right. He felt a lot of bitter resentment that no one aided them, and while it may sound that Huangzhou aiding Dawn would be something impossible to do, something that surely can't happen--

-- weren't there warriors of their city that already expressed desire to help?

Even then, that's where it ends - an expression. In reality, no one came to their aid. No one came when he was on the verge of death after countless battles with Vampires, no one came when he was terrified of opposing the strongest immortals there are.

And no one came when Rea died.

"I've never opposed the idea of diplomacy. I have no qualms with Huangzhou or Deseti. I do not enjoy the presence of Demons upon this land, but that's about it."

Though, the next words caused his brow to arch. The choice of speech she had caused him to mildly frown, in fact, offending him - but he chose to not show it.

"Redemption?"

"To redeem someone, they must be guilty of something, to begin with. And what am I guilty of? Perfecting an old Art that was used to walk rotten corpses, to turn it into a tool that grants actual second chance to people?"

"Or am I guilty of defending my people against the Vampires, so that they would not slaughter those I care about?"

"Am I guilty of choosing to defy monsters, even though humans are the ones that have tried to imprison and kill me in the past, before I became like this?"

"Before I became any of this?"

For just a moment, his voice rises, but he bites back his tongue- for just a moment, the energy of Arcane seeps, high off his emotion, but...

"...Yes. I think there could be diplomatical resolution."
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[22:32] Yes. I think there could be diplomatical resolution, Arthur said.

"I am glad to hear that."

Anger and resentment and offense was met with an aura of genuine warmth. It was like she was wearing sunlight. A rose-golden light draped over her delicate frame which was otherwise swaddled in humble, plain cotton.

"We all are guilty of something, Arthur. That is what it means to be human in this imperfect world."

She spoke a little more carefully now, her voice softening (though her thick Sarradian accent certainly did not).

"I did not come here to judge you, or make you feel judged."

She paused.

"I will hold back on my lecturing. I am certain you do not need me to warn you that a city of necromancy surely will only lead to grief."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[22:38] It's not easy to stay as civilized as this when one is aligned to the power of Chaos- often times, the anger and resentment he felt was unleashed upon those that have broken laws in Dawn or even his enemies.

The unfortunate fate of those that have angered Arthur could not be envied.

"--If everyone is guilty, then it appears conflicts tend to happen over small things like mere differences in views."

Unironically, that was actually the truth. Even now, as much as he despised Demons and Vampires, he imagines that the moment they're gone, all of those that align themselves to Order would come crashing down upon Arthur.

He must be prepared. He must Ascend, if he wants to survive.

"Necromancy is a tool, and everyone wields tools of one kind or another."

"With a mere decade in my hands, I was able to defeat the rot and produce means to ensure that every Undead resembles their past self and acquires a proper body."

"With more time, it could become something else entirely. Something that could not be called Necromancy anymore."

It's all a dream. Even then, he already made large steps towards it - a lot of people, after all, have absolutely no idea just how far Dawn has come to making this reality.

"But I assume this conducts our meeting then?"
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[22:53] "Sometimes differences in views can be massive, when ones views influence actions which shape the world."

Sa was really struggling to hold herself back. Arthur had said why he had turned to Necromancy, to Chaos. Even if she hadn't been as painfully empathetic as she was, she would have had the suspicion that he'd been desperate. He'd told himself it was to protect his people.

He'd even said he was selfish.

But why?

Why spend time, and energy, and effort into perfecting necromancy?

Sa didn't understand. Despite attempting to remain civil, her gaze was sceptical.

"Yes, I suppose our meeting is over. I will take my leave.

If you and yours will not get in my way, I will do my best to deal with the baron and his brood."

She gestured to Shezmu, to Anzeti.

"..you can always reconsider the path you and your people are travelling on, Arthur."
(Sa Awaret)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[22:55] There are myriad reasons as to why he turned himself to this power.

But of course, speaking about it now would not be so wise, would it? Their views are vastly difference, and where Sa may hold empathy, she will neither understand nor approve of it- and to top it off, it would only result in him giving more information than already necessary.

A simple nod is given to her final exclamation. Whether he truly acknowledged her words remains an unanswered mystery, after which he also exclaims the final sentence.

"Goodbye."
(Arthur Rowan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------