Romani Montclaire - Cared for (5/16)

[00:24] Finley did what he could to help, which wasn't much, but his aquamancy could stay the blood as Tonak commanded. The Teraphim wasn't as precise as a blood magi might have been, but with some very tiny, emerald dust floating from Fin to Romani, the gentle waters that aided Tonak were soon providing some of the healing magic Finley could offer.

"..we should talk when you've the time. But I won't press you, old friend. We've both seen better days." Finley said, waiting off to the side once his role in the healing was finished.

He leaned against he wall, slumped some, but still standing on his two feet. Whatever Finley had been through recently had taken a large enough toll on him that it'd be some time before he found his strength again.
(Finley)
[00:27] As Finley seems to struggle to stand correctly whilst still mid recuperation, Walter spares him from overworking until he's fully rehabilitated. The oversized Kitsune's shoulder allows for the Teraphim to support himself better in case his pacing would falter due to his vulnerable state.

"Easy there, Fin."
(Walter Docro)
[00:29] Romani was not sure what exactly he was expecting from the medical procedure. But the energy magic would very quickly start to slice open his chest. He would shiver in pain, holding back screams but the watering of his eyes kept up.

After all, the anti-magic collar made his natural magic barriers lessen a bit. On the bright side, the procedure was explained to him before he had it applied but, Tonak was 100% right.

It was painful.

The energy going into his body, the fractures quickly recovering because of it. The once stellus ever closes his eyes and winces, but feels the needle and thread ever working upon his flesh. Inhales as more lax and the area was repaired.

His hand raises, giving Tonak a thumbs up at the doctors orders. "I get it. I was not planning to fight. I am rather, an 'honorary gust', as I believe I was called." His eyes squeezed shut in that pain as the aquamancy assisted his blood stay in. Romani tilts his head, fully looking towards Finley.

"We should talk, yes. And I do hope we get to see better days again in the future, friend." A small strained smile from the pain as he rested there on the bed, opening and closing his eyes.

"It has really been too long. I wish we could have talked with the war going on but not really a place for us to have met up." His eyes open as he gazed towards the ceiling.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[00:32] She'd cross her arms, waiting ever patiently for the procedure. However she didn't watch - it was just...

Nope. She couldn't.

"... When Tonak is done, there's things I need to tell you both too." She said suddenly.
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[00:35] "I managed to keep Ilsa out of harm while she was here. Asta's released her to try to show Osrona that we're not out for blood but.. the Church's propaganda that has spread has undone what good faith that act must have shown. They've called us savages who sacrifice men to demons." Finley frowned and crossed his arms, but only after giving Walter a small wave to ensure the mercenary knew he was alright for now.

"It was all what I wanted to talk to you about. To see if some of the damage could be undone, given it all sounded like fuel for the war, lies told to your side to ensure they kept the fight up. The occultists have been greatly over-exaggerated.. I-" Finley caught himself and sighed.

"Apologies. I said I would not press you and here I am trying to have the conversation I meant to have with you before we were forced to face deaths' door."

Finley paused and looked over to Ophelia.

"It's my hope to get you both released. Or at least ensure your safety. I couldn't save Siegfried.. but there's a reason I'm not dead. Even if it takes the end of this war, I won't see you two suffer the same fate."
(Finley)
[00:35] Tonak would clean up his hands and then look to them.

"Im heading out. Whatever concern you all have is personal so I show myself out. Do get better and make sure to watch him Fin."
(Tonak Botcher)
[00:36] She withdrew a small remote from her bag, holding it up, in response to Finley's statement about her release. She didn't even say a word, simply tucking it back into her bag.

"Don't worry about me, Finley. Really."
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[00:36] Finley says, "--"
[00:43] Walter audibly groans at the comments about potentially releasing the prisoners. Any time could be early unless the Crown had been put in their place. He chimes in, almost snarkily contesting that.

"Yeah. When the war's over, maybe." He had no actual authority in the matter, yet being an ear bug could prove to be productive in wake of any counterproductive scenario.

Surprisingly enough, no statements are made regarding occultists. Perhaps some had to go, and if such was to be the trade, then he'd happily gamble.
(Walter Docro)
[00:46] Romani's gaze would be cast towards Ophelia. The shirt he had would slowly be replaced onto him as he nodded. "I will speak with you any time you need, my love." A small smile crossed his face although he was pained.

His gaze would look towards Tonak. "Thank you again for your assistance. And I will be here a while longer to rest-" Romani ever pauses, seeing the remote that Ophelia produced. That made him silent for a few moments.

How.. long..

His eyes looked towards Finley, trying to rid himself of the questions. "I glad you were able to protect her. And you are correct, Del's propaganda does seem have been trying to ruin Myllenoris. I have seen for myself that the spirits do not demand human sacrifice, nor does it appear that you guys are going to do such."

"I do believe that Del just wanted incentivize the war and make more people fight. They are not kind with their words, and even harmed some of the First Light's credibility with them."

"After this war? I would like to fix much of the misgivings." He would pause for a moment. "I do, however, want to know how many occultists are allowed in Myllenoris. I was not under the impression such was allowed but,"

"I have now seen Mihalis allowed in. And where there is one there is surely others. Does occultism not go against the balance?" His hand balls hearing about Siegfried, frowning.

"Thank you. For watching out for me. I would do the same for you if you we were on the other side of it. You are my friend, Finley." He gave a small nod. "I would not worry about my release, however. I believe that Regulus intends to keep me as a guest until the war's conclusion, and I have not had a chance to fully see Myllenoris yet, not for more then a short visit. It can be a nice experience."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[00:47] Walter Docro exclaims, "Wait - Mihalis is allowed in...?!"
[00:48] Romani cos Montclaire says, "I know there was a deal in the works for him. It is why I am currently in Myllenoris custody."
[00:50] Walter Docro says, "Ah, so he brought you in... apologies f'my ignorance."
[00:52] Romani cos Montclaire says, "It is okay."
[00:54] Walter has succeeded in diverting suspicion. He knew nothing. That was the truth now. Good job, Walter.
(Walter Docro)
[00:58] Ophelia's remote is given a wide eyed stare, and quietly Finley already wished she hadn't shown it to him, the Mistseer of Truth, the one bound to never lie, the one who could rarely hide a single thing from anyone if only because he believed all dealings should happen in the open. It didn't bode well at all, but for now he'd keep quiet as to not worry her and Romani, and he'd hope that no one would ask after it.

Though he did say, "..you should flee, Opheliea.. if you can.. I would like to promise you I could keep you safe from Asta, but even at my best..." he trailed off, recognizing that his best was likely behind him after the crippling Sythaeryn had done to him.

Finley shook his head, shifting gears to Romani.

"Her words have done enough. Her rumors are lies. There was only one occultist officially recognized within Myllenoris, and he's been kept under watch, a Teraphim who represents the dark. While the Treaty stood, we outlawed their kind for Osrona, but with Alexander breaking it and one of our own developing such magic, we recognized that the far ends of the spectrum have yet to be represented in our kingdom."

"We've allowed this Teraphim to persist as an occultist, but with hopes to find our own exorcist soon enough, so that light might balance out the dark." Fin explained, showing that occultism didn't really go against the balance of Myllenoris, but that it was definitely something to keep contained.

"..but he's yet to hunt like Del's declarations said. We've no group of occultists housed and fed here. We aren't harboring some cult. Mihalis delivered us to you, but we've yet to meet with him, and discussion has been made not to welcome him inside, but only to call off our hunts. Rogue occultists are not to be welcomed. The only other aside from those two is a girl who visits from time to time, and we're soon to tell her that those visits are to be limited."

"We aren't what Del's made us out to be. Far from it..." Finley sighed again, wishing that this very conversation could have happened that day he'd intended for it to happen. Before prisoners were taken in, before battle was had. Before people died.

"..she said we sacrificed Edelaide to the spirits.. when the woman fought Sythaeryn five times before he killed her for provoking him. It was not some act of savagery or witchcraft. I believe her body was either offered to remain in the Vale, as all deaths in Myllenoris are prone to be, or taken elsewhere, I didn't ask after it because it isn't as heinous as it's been made out to be. All of these things..."

"...all of these things topped with Serea's death. With Siegfried's... this war will not end, Romani. It feels as if it will go on forever, that too much bad blood has stained the fields from my home to yours. It pains me, truly..." Finley spoke faster than ever before, his breathing ragged and labored. "And I fear if Regulus fails to sway Asta, I won't be enough to stop her. I tried to stop her, tried to shift the path of this kingdom..."

Finley gestured to his bandages that wrapped his chest up tight. "I can feel where her claws scratched my heart... I can still hear her scream. I thought I was dead..."
(Finley)
[00:59] Finley says, "delivered you to us*"
[00:59] Walter Docro says, "Four times."
[01:18] Now, she showed stubbornness as she shook her head.

"No. Much like how Romani would refuse to leave without me, I refuse to leave without him. That's all there is to it. I'll travel to Osrona as often as I wish, or here, but for the time being I'll be here." She said. She was honest.

"Sythaeryn explained to me what happened between himself and Edelaide. That she was going to be a gift to the spirits in the Vale, and so she begged to be killed in battle. So he took her life while telling her tales of Vanaheim…" She trailed off, eyes shutting tightly now before she inhaled.

"I have an idea on how to make sure Asta doesn't commit anymore acts as she did the other day, but...." Now she trailed off, offering a minor shrug. She didn't wish to speak on it.
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[01:20] Finley says, "Whoever said she was going to be a gift to the spirits was likely using it as a.. how you say, metaphor. A way of speech? She was Sam's prisoner, and he was probably going to kill her after she kept trying to carve his heart out."
[01:21] Finley says, "We don't do human sacrifice. Such a thing will only be kept for truly, -truly- dire circumstances, as blood and soul are a supreme sacrifice, one that isn't to be toyed with as easily as the witches did."
[01:23] A small nod was made towards Fin. "I do not like occultism in any capacity, first off. But the amount that Del said that it was is certainly an exaggeration then. And while I do not like rogue occultists, it can not be particularly blamed on any one place for not capturing them when they come. They can be sneaky." He admitted, arms crossing atop his chest before ultimately sighing. "And perhaps it is the fault of Orsona. As you said, it was outlawed for Orsona, and with Alexander breaking the treaty.."

Not all fault rested with them. A sigh leaves Romani, shaking his head. "Please work on recruiting exorcists as soon as possible then. Occultists often beget problems and it is better to have people ready to handle it when things do come up." A breath taken in.

"I did not want Edelaide mentioned at all. She said that Edelaid was to be sacrificed to the spirits. But first? She was not sacrificed. Second, it was not a citizen of Orsona. It was not the Church's place to stand and announce, but Del did such before asking for permission, and once words are said, they are not so easily taken aback." He shakes his head.

"I do understand not thinking the war will end. But it will. Eventually, people will be demoralized, or there will be too much death and loss to continue. Attrition, or loss of morale, one of these two will ultimately end the war as it is. While it is true there is bad blood, it is unlikely Orsona will be able to stand to go after such blood soon enough. It hurts me that lives were lost but, I do hope more lives falling can be prevented." He pauses, closes his eyes. "We will need to put our hopes in Regulus. I know not how much or what Asta currently desires."

His eyes would glance towards Ophelia as she denied going back. There was a widening of his eyes at that. Perhaps he should have expected it, given how he chased after her but all the same? It made asmall smile cross his face.

"Thank you, Ophe. I do know that both of us had all our ties with Alexander revoked but it still means the world to me that you are here. It means the world to me that you will be with me."

His eyes closed, hearing the explanation at first. "So it was not Myllenoris that intended to sacrifice her, but just Sythaeryn? That does change things." His eyes close, gaining more understanding of the situation, before pausing.

"Acts like the other day?"
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[01:34] "I can agree. I don't particularly like it either. But under the circumstances, with intentions to limit both it and holy magic within the kingdom, I can't fault the Teraphim who wields it, so long as he wields it as responsibly as an occultist can." A contradiction to one such as Romani, which Finley knew, but he said it anyway in hopes that the Stellus might see it his way.

"But yes.. we wouldn't have allowed it within our borders so long as the treaty specified it. But once we realized what had happened, it was the last of our concerns."

"This particular occultist is one of Asta's most staunch supporters. He's likely to call me a traitor for my recent actions. He already admitted to disliking me, for what I do not know." Finley shrugged. At the mention of Regulus and Asta, Finley looked down.

"Regulus and I have done all we can. I've yet to meet with Asta again after my.. situation." Fin shifted in place. "Things became complicated. Sythaeryn slew Serea, despite Asta wishing to keep her as a bargaining chip to near the end of this war. Then more chaos broke out when I tried to arrest him for it. The drakan had me in his grasp and leveraged my life for both answers to Asta's desire to seat Marie on the throne, which she revealed to be a lie, as well as Siegfried's life. I told Asta not to comply... but she did anyway..." Fin said, closing his eyes again as he remembered Siegfried's death.

"And all around me are those who still believe each word she says is true. That even her lies are meant to be the will of Aschea, some greater purpose... but Aschea's will is not this violent. It is not this cruel. So many of my kind think our place is above the rest of Esshar, when in reality, we are meant to be its shield, its protectors against the forces that would conquer and manipulate it, not the other way around."
(Finley)
[01:45] Romani closed his eyes and gave a small hum. Myllenoris stance was obviously one he did not like, but by the same standard? He was a war prisoner, pretty much. It was not as if he had the ability to change it with anything other then his words. A small sigh left him, defeated for now.

"Maybe in the future they can be convinced otherwise. I do not trust occultism, and while they support Asta, it may just as quickly lead to destruction of other things." A sigh left him before hearing of the situation. Eyes would stare towards Fin, frowning.

It was the first he had heard of Serea's death. All that planning to waste. Similarly, reveling what they had in store for Marie, and Siegfried also made him frown. After all, if he could not trust what she said?

What could he trust?

"I do not like that she is lying and being untruthful. I do not believe Aschea's will is this violent either. And I do not like conquest, I would support no side in such. But the situation seems to only getting more and more difficult."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[01:49] "I can agree with your views, but even if I held the crown, I'd still defend a Teraphim with occultism so long as we had an exorcist to balance them out. The only magic truly outlawed in Myllenoris is of course witchcraft itself." Finley shrugged.

"Her lies were plain to see. And Asta was meant to execute me before everyone for refusing to follow her in them. But I'm alive." A nod toward Amy. "Likely because of her." Finley's voice was a bit softer.

"I didn't get to ever tell you.. but I've chosen to bond with Amy once this is all over."
(Finley)
[01:53] A small sigh.

"Personally, I would believe no occultism is better then occultism and holy magic. I can understand you wanting to defend a Teraphim with it, if only slightly, but I still believe it is better to ban both their usage and cleanse them of the magic, if it was down to me." Romani said honestly. To him, the risk was far too great.

"She meant to kill you?" His eyes widen, staring towards Finley. He had mentioned pain before from Asta, but he did not know it was to that extent. He shakes his head and lets out a sigh. "I am glad you are alive. And congratulations."

"Love is important. So I hope you and Amy's bond stays strong and you take care of her. Do your best to walk together and always be by each others sides.

Romani's hand would move, going forwards, almost reaching for Ophelia's hand but she was in the middle section of the room and he was still bedridden.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[01:54] "Love is important. So I hope you and Amy's bond stays strong and you take care of her. Do your best to walk together and always be by each others sides."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[01:57] Finley nodded along, passing by the conversation on occultism to confirm he had faced Asta's fullest wrath and was still here to tell the tale. "She intended to rip my heart out, the type of death only given to someone who goes against the High Lady. But I couldn't stand it. Not when she's lied a second time. Not only did she admit to Sythaeryn that she never intended to place Marie on the throne, but Asta also wished for me to swear ultimate loyalty to her and her crusade."

"A crusade that would see all of Esshar under her rule. It meant she's been lying to our allies all this time. That she's been lying to her Valeborne- to me- to everyone." Finley's fists clenched in agitation. "And I wouldn't say it. She said I could live if I said it, but I wouldn't. I will not lie, nor will I support notions built upon them."

"She left me mortally wounded, and even if she left me to die, she knew I would be treated and saved. She showed mercy... I've only yet to ask her why."
(Finley)
[02:02] To rend Finley's heart from their body. Romani's eyes widen anew, and he takes a breath inwards. His mind tried to understand all he could of it. But it did not. That she never intended to place Marie on the throne, that Asta wished ultimately for only loyalty to her, her army, what she wished to push.

A crusade. Not a holy one, but one to take all by the sounds of it. His fists ball and he took a breath inwards, slight worry. "I am glad that she did not kill you. Finley, I am glad you are alive. Her actions are very worrisome, but if I am glad for one she has taken?"

"It is that I am glad that she did not kill you. That she showed that mercy." An exhale, eyes closing.

"If you do not intend to support her, what do you plan to do?"
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[02:07] "That's the question still needing to be answered. I can't deny her right to govern. The spirits chose her. The Crown is hers. Nothing can change that at this point, as clearly her life is bound to continue on for some purpose. And her mercy, my continued survival, has some intention as well that I've yet to uncover." Finley went on describing and revealing the deep rooted beliefs that followed the Spirits' Witness. His duel with Asta hadn't been a normal one, but something to discern the truth of the Vale's will, of Aschea's.

"Regulus wants me to speak with her and stay. He said that she's actually.. sorry. But for what, I wonder. I hold no anger within me for the wounds the High Lady left on my body. Some might believe that to be her great and terrible transgression against me, but I knew what would happen with the challenge. To carry a grudge over it would waste energy."

"No. It her lies that I wonder if she's become apologetic for. For it is her lies that strike my ire and urge me to these actions. I've a role to play in this life for my people. I've known since I was fifteen that that role is to be the one in Myllenoris who keeps Asta in check. If it's time that I do so somewhere else, somewhere away from home, then I'll have to accept that fact if exile is what awaits me."

Finley paused, offering a curious expression to the ground. "..but if she intends to keep me here. Then I can't rightly reject that either. It's difficult to explain, but as Teraphim we understand these things, complicated though they may very well be. I am her kanta, a notion that for each individual, there is another in the world meant to rival and balance them. For no one man may believe himself on both sides of the scales. An old proverb, but one to keep in mind when regarding the High Lady and myself."
(Finley)
[02:08] Amy's arrival had been a long time coming, but she had been there, in the doorway watching and listening to the group converse. It is only now that she decides to walk across the room and speaking up into the conversation. "I am glad for it as well." She would say simply, offering a small nod towards Romani in greeting before she looks towards Ophelia curiously. "Is it true that Sythaeryn has already left Myllenoris?"
(Amalia Hargrave)
[02:09] Finley reaches over to hold Amy's hand in his left.
(Finley)
[02:11] She'd pay a glance to Finley, for she had become withdrawn and quiet.

"But how can you even believe that she's sorry, when she's already been caught in lies in the past? She could say she's sorry one moment and then the next she isn't." She shrugged before she'd spare a look to Amalia.

"Yes, he's already left. He said he'd be in Alabastre. He gave one of the Teraphim a letter to give to Asta - and said he'd be there for the reply. It concerns Asta's idea to have Marie sit on the throne, it doesn't sit right with him given she's the one who killed Garljing."
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[02:12] Amalia squeezes his hand gently.
(Amalia Hargrave)
[02:15] Romani would greet Amalia with a nod back.

"The question of what to do, what she is sorry for. I do imagine that if Regulus said it, it can be a bit more trusted then if Asta did. I know he had more of tendency to keep his word, and I have yet to see him make a lie." His eyes close, considering things in that moment.

"Maybe you should see about finding out what it is that she is apologetic for directly. But that would take talking to her and Regulus. And, find out also if she is willing to listen to you. I know it is her lies that strike your ire, and I know that sooner or later things may come to a head again. But speaking to her soon may end it in only argument instead of violence."

"That would ultimately be my hope." An exhale. "If she does not exile you, do you intend to stay then?" He would ask, confirming as he spoke of the Kanta. "The Kanta must always be close then?"

His eyes glanced towards Ophelia, giving a nod. "That is why I believe it must be both her and Regulus present. He is not known for lies." A pause when it was revealed that Sythaeryn had departed. Then back towards Ophelia. Then a small exhale of relief, and again reaching forwards towards her hand to try to hold it.

Slightly more over the bed this time.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[02:21] Finley offered Amy a small smile at her approach, and turned to Ophelia given her questions were warranted. "I don't intend to speak with her so openly about all of this anymore. Within the Vale, my pact with the spirits of truth are certain, and I will force her to meet with me on equal ground, with blood vows to speak only honesty toward one another for a single conversation. That is how I will retrieve my guarantee as to what comes out of her mouth is nothing less the supreme honesty."

"Regulus says she wants to meet with me. So it is a meeting she will get." Finley said, turning to Romani next. "If I'm exiled, I'm likely to wander in search of some place to wait out this storm. Someday I'll return home, if this is what I'm forced to do, because the Vale is ever my place to remain. But with my gift, I can of course visit it when needed. During the night hours when no one will wander it. I carry theVale with me, and so home is never truly lost."

"The kanta does not necessarily need to be close. And it's, of course, not always a Teraphim either. It's even believed that humans carry these connections, even if it is unknown to you. Bitter rivalries are what they often manifest as. For it doesn't matter the distance between them, the two will always be brought back to oppose one another in some manner or form."

Sythaeryn's departure to Alabastre didn't sit well with Finley, and it showed on his face. "..if the drakan is to treat with the Lionhearts, it's very possible he'll soon take up whatever banner they call themselves under. Their city is growing. Their beliefs shifting, but coming together. There's soon to be another player upon Esshar, and this one once sold its loyalty to the highest bidder."
(Finley)
[02:30] Just nods towards Ophelia. "Good. I am sorry I did not learn about the way you were treated by him sooner. I would have done something about it." She would say towards the Montclaire before turning to look between Romani and Finley once more as they converse.

Once a moment to comment presented itself, she spoke up to add a few words of her own, but little else. "Sythaeryn ran from Myllenoris because he was afraid of the response his actions would bring. He was largely the cause for most everything, as it's been told to me."
(Amalia Hargrave)
[02:35] As Romani moved to take her hand, she'd squeeze it. Tightly.

"He gave me my remote and then departed. That was that." She'd explain, perhaps answering Romani's earlier silent question as to how long she had been technically free. A violet flower bloomed from the top of her head and she blinked before raising her other hand to snap it free. It was deposited in her flower crown once more.

"I don't think she'll actually exile you. Or perhaps she will, given others' opinion. All of them seem to respect her and her thoughts. A few even think Teraphim should lead humans." There was a shake of her head at that notion, foolish as it was.

"Given that I've been relieved of my duties by Alexander, I do wonder if I shouldn't head to Alabastre to try and discern what they're doing... It's strange to me that Del is talking about marrying Owyn who is a member of there, andyet Sythaeryn has ties to it as well." She chewed on the inside of her cheek.

Whatever was going on didn't feel good to her.
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[02:38] It sounded as if Finley's plan for securing a truthful conversation was certain to him. He does not question it, only giving a small nod in understanding. However, mentions of wandering to wait out the war do make a small frown spread to his face. After all, in all of this?

Who could say anywhere was safe?

"I am glad you have a way to visit it, you are correct. All the same, I do hope if that arises you will find a place to be safe and go to." A small pause and he spoke still of the Kanta. Romani's eyes closed.

Did he have one? A bitter rivalry? Nothing came to mind. Rivalries often required that the sides be somewhat equal in power, that one side would win one day, and the other another. But for Romani, victory was not often known. Loss and loss meant he did not have much in the way of rivals. "I can not say that I get it, in entirely. Or maybe I simply do not have a Kanta."

The location of Sythaeryn madeRomani relax, if only a little, but the look of Finley would make him pause. "Do you think he would join them permanently? And if so, what do you think their objective would become?"

A small frown crossed his lips at the talk of Amalia towards Ophelia. The behavior of Syth, things he felt as if he should have tried to prevent.. He shook his head. "If he killed Serea and forced things, I do see him as a root underlying cause for all the actions and death that took place." A sigh.

His hand found Ophelia's hand and he would squeeze it back. He before an expression on his face, as if for a few seconds, all the talk of Syth leaving had worried him she was an appriation. With all the stress, he could have just been seeing things.

"I am with Ophe. I do not think that her goal is to exile you in the end. At least, I do not believe that. If she did, she would have likely killed you in the spirits witness. She wants you alive, and perhaps nearby." A nod.

However, as Ophelia spoke of going to Alabastre, his eyes widen and the look of sheer internal screaming displayed in those heterochromatic hues. An unabated panic.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[02:47] Finley squinted at the mention of both Del and Sythaeryn within Alabastre. Two people he'd come to despise collecting within what was once a mercenary camp couldn't bode well for anyone or anything outside of it. Yet it was the reality all the same.

Ophelia's concerns were met with a single nod. "And it's for this reason that I'd stick around, if I'm not exiled. Too many of these Teraphim believe themselves over humans. They think we're better, that we deserve something more than what we have. They've been lead astray by Asta's pride and hubris, something they all believe is Aschea urging her toward some divine right to conquer." Finley stopped and held up his right, crystal hand.

"Myllenoris has just as many blindly following orders as Osrona, if not more. It was why I challenged Asta for a Crown I have no longing for. Because someone has to alter their course..." Finley's voice trailed off again as he recognized the spirits hadn't supported that notion. It was odd to think it, but even a part of him had started to wonder whether or not there was some sort of truth to the matter he'd fought against.

"I've no idea what Sythaeryn's plans will be. Asta built him a Fireblooded temple here in Myllenoris for some gods forsaken reason, but now that he's gone, I've every intention to urge her in tearing it down. As soon as possible." He said firmly. "But it's his actions that spurred this chaos on. And even if his chaos revealed Asta's deceit, it was still through violence and murder that was unneeded... death that's now only pushed Alexander fully over the edge."

Fin shook his head at Ophelia. "I wouldn't approach them. Not in a time like this, not when you're so recently 'freed'. You'd do better in Osrona attempting to urge Alexander into some alternative... Osrona's walls are bound to be breached. They've lost far too many in number, while Myllenoris even without allies still stands as strong as it did at the start of this conflict, if not stronger."
(Finley)
[02:56] She noticed Romani's fear and panic and she quickly shook her head.

"I won't go, I won't go!" She finally said. It didn't truly dawn on her that stepping into Alabastre while the Drakanite was there was dangerous until that moment. Foolish. She patted Romani's hand lightly. "Don't worry. I'll just travel between here and Osrona, alright?"

Now that Walter had left the room however, she felt just a tad bit more free to speak. Specifically on what Serea and her had been working on before her untimely death. Something she was determined to look more into.

"Serea and I arranged a deal with Asta and Regulus, and Romani was there as well... She was going to accuse Nebula of witchcraft. But - she... Was slain, so now I've been doing the investigating." She explained, her eyes hardening. "Whereas Serea said Kofe had a name of a witch but refused to divulge it? He told me. I went to Osrona, both August and himself are locked up in jail."

"They claim Kofe tried to assault Alexander, and August spoke of sedition... That we should find another way and sue for peace." She shook her head. In all honesty, she didn't like what she had found out, it bothered her, especially given who all was involved. It forced a sigh from her lips.
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[03:01] His eyes close for a few moments. "It is worrying. If it was one or two, it would be less so, but if it is a collective that see themselves as prideful and hubrisfilled.."

His voice trails off as he shakes his head and sighs. "Syth seems more reactive. We can not tell what his plans are because he just seems like he is moving for the most blood and battle, I think." He let out a sigh and shook his head.

"So many problems. And it is going to take a lot to get things in a calm fashion. Maybe you are right and this war really will take longer. A lot longer." A sigh again, more firmly holding Ophelia's hand for a few seconds. then he would move forwards, wrapping both arms around Ophelia.

"I do not want to lose you. Not again." He would mumble, before nodding. "You said just between here and Orsona. Do not fight him, please. Please be safe." There was almost begging in his tone as he said it.

"How is the investigation going then? And what? Both August and Kofe locked up? So everyone who was looking into that accusation has been done away with." A frown on his face. "Worrying. And why would Kofe assault Alexander?"
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[03:05] The mention of witchcraft had Finley's fullest attention. He actually stepped off of the wall to focus in, recalling the suspicions that had been stated but never fully investigated or confirmed. It was a difficult and murky water to wade through, but if it was true, then this war and all it meant could be changed.

"That should be our main priority. If it's true then it would change everything. Kofe had mentioned something of it to me before but.. I didn't have all the pieces to it." Finley frowned.

He looked down to Romani and said, "We allowed all the prisoners to send letters to Alexander and their families. If you could write to him now about all of this, or maybe even someone who would trust you, do you think they'd listen? That maybe your voice still carries enough meaning to sway some of the public to act?"
(Finley)
[03:13] She shook her head.

"I'm not going to fight him again, Romani. Don't worry, please... You won't lose me. Not again." She promised the man with a small smile before continuing,

"I'm not sure why Kofe assaulted him but... There's a chain of connections that Kofe noticed. First, nearly ten years ago, he was taken captive. They were held in the church," She mentioned, glancing to her husband briefly, "Before all of that he fought against Nebula, and she left him with a scar. Apparently she felt responsible because she took the time to bring him to a friend of hers to heal the injury..." She trailed off, hesitating briefly.

Her next words hurt. The possibility that...

"That's when he met Edelaide. Nebula called her a friend but they rarely even hung out, and he knows because he was with Edelaide practically all the time. But she spoke to Kofe of forming a pact to bring great things to Esshar.Edelaide always told him not to fall for her, but that she loved him... But that she loved him in a different way. Weird, right? But she was the one who tipped him off to look into Scarlett's eyes. She told him she saw terrifying things, things that actually made her tremble. She called Scarlett a friend too."

She'd pause, letting all of that soak in. There was a connection. She was getting there.

"Yet they never hung out, just like Nebula and Edelaide. When Kofe spoke to Scarlett about it, she mentioned having learned it all from her mother. She said he shouldn't know because she still hadn't shown that side of herself yet. Scarlett's mother was a witch. She told him that herself... And her cousin was Duana - a known witch."

"Scarlett knew they bound themselves to Helheim, and she was offered to be trained. She claimed then she wouldn't let herself be bound to anything but - that's extremely close to home. Scarlett's unfeeling about a lot of things according to him, just like Edelaide who couldn't feel love. The same Edelaide who.... Who.... Who spoke of a pact with Bastiel. Scarlett told Kofe that witches can make one feel certain ways. That they can influence people. Alice told him the same thing, and people suspect it happened to him the night he assaulted Alexander, but he thinks it's just his mistake. Feelings he never resolved."

"Scarlett, a possible witch, and a known cousin to another whose mother was one, was friends with Edelaide, and Edelaide called her a friend... And Edelaide and Nebula called each other friends."
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[03:18] Amalia had fallen silent and inwardly pensive, but is brought out of it by the talk of Witches.
(Amalia Hargrave)
[03:21] He would hold Ophelia closely, hearing her words. Although she assured him, he swallowed, giving a nod. All the same, he held her as if she was more precious then life itself. Then again, in his position? maybe she was.

Romani would give a small nod as Finley spoke up.

"It is speculation. A belief. We have had several people believe Nebula was a Witch, including Periclies and Serea. I believe that they had the most proof of it, and would be the best to make the claims but then this war happened." Romani would shake his head.

"If she is a Witch, she is not the type like Duana. She is not loud with it. And I have heard many times people think it is because of how Alexander reacted, but he did not show regret after. That is the main reason why I believe someone may have been influenced by a Witch. Doing something in the moment, losing themselves and regretting it. But I do not think Alexander regretted taking action there."

All the same, he would let Ophelia answer the proving part. "I am not certain if I have any further influence or hold in Orsona. I am uncertain how many would trust me now that I have been here a while, and Alexander himself pretty much disowned me."

The information on Scarlet and Eladaie was somewhat new to him. He had gotten it before but never the name. Now there was more of an understanding, eyes closing and breathing in slightly. "It is definitely something to look into with Scarlett, maybe. I do not think we can go any further with Edelaide investigating."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[03:21] Romani cos Montclaire whispers to Ophelia cos Montclaire: I trust you. But also, I do not think I can stop worrying. At least, I have been stressed a lot lately.
[03:22] Ophelia cos Montclaire whispers to Romani cos Montclaire: I understand... But you shouldn't need to worry.
[03:22] Ophelia cos Montclaire whispers to Romani cos Montclaire: If I see him again, I won't fight him.
[03:23] Romani cos Montclaire whispers to Ophelia cos Montclaire: Do you think he would attack you? And.. why did he give back your remote?
[03:25] Ophelia cos Montclaire whispers to Romani cos Montclaire: I don't think he would. He has no reason to, unless he tries to get the remote back for whatever reason, or hold me again.
[03:25] Ophelia cos Montclaire whispers to Romani cos Montclaire: He said he was going to travel and he didn't want to have to take me with him.
[03:26] Finley squinted further somehow, someway as he took it all in. It was a long and winding path to whatever hidden truth was here, but it was a path that he would take note on and walk, just as he'd done in his youth. For too long the Teraphim had been turned into a soldier when in reality his first and truest calling was hunting the remnants of the Coven that now hid in the shadows of Esshar, in the crevices of the places they'd least be considered to be in.

"You should write your letter regardless. You said yourself; the king has no right to remove a Stellus from power. And to all those in that city, you still have your own divine right to such a position, do you not?" Finley wondered aloud, uncertain if it was the same as the king's angelically chosen blood, or the High Lord's place in Myllenoris in regards to the spirits.

"So many knights in Osrona hold their doubts, but they're spurred on by the rumors and misinformation spreading there about Myllenoris. And while I'm not trying to absolve Asta of her role in all of this, if there were more in Osrona who put their swords down, then this could all end with less death, less violence and blood."

Finley placed his crystal hand on the headboard, its gem-exterior shimmering with a glow inside, a reminder of when the Teraphim had saved the life of his friend.

"If there's one thing you can do while shackled here, it is this. It's to spread your word and make it known, make it truly known. Many may not listen, but is it not best to at least try to sway those who will?"
(Finley)
[03:29] Romani cos Montclaire whispers to Ophelia cos Montclaire: I am still worried. I do not understand him. And that makes him extremely dangerous. And he may come for you anew, if he thinks he is settling somewhere like Alabastre.
[03:35] "Edelaide is out of the question, you're right. I'd go to Alabastre to ask those there that worked with her but.... Sythaeryn. So yeah." She shrugged. "... But maybe Kofe can go there once he's released. Basil is a Rhoynish!"

Was that racist? Maybe. She wasn't sure.

"And Finley is right Romani, you should send letters out. Make your stance publicly known. Make your thoughts known. It was Del that suggested August be locked up after all, and she's also declared all of those things on behalf of the Church."

"I just know that if I accuse Nebula of being a witch, I'll never be able to return home. Possibly ever. Not unless I'm right, and I don't want to make my move too soon. I can't make it too soon..." She began to chew on her bottom lip before she believe she just found her own answer.

"But I think I know how I can get more information. I just have to find an Occultist Duana trained." Easier said than done - right? Dangerous as well.
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[03:41] The idea of writing letters, making his thoughts known. His eyes closed on it, thinking for a few moments. Only then, he would shake his head, looking towards Finley.

"If I were to do that, I would be doing treason, I imagine. Stating the Queen is a Witch, saying that Alexander lacks the right to strip a Stellus of power. My own selection was because of Faith others put in me. And in my absence, I imagine that all faith would be in Del instead." A small sigh that left him, hanging his head.

"I need time to think on it. To commit what course of action I would take, and even question if it would accomplish anything. But I think you may be onto something. A nation should not be led by lies. It needs to be led by truths, whether they are just belief, speculation, or facts." A sigh as the hand rested upon the headboard.

"I need to think about it. Immensely. Because if I do this, I see it as giving up my home, ultimately, and completely, becauseif I return I will likely only be hated."

His eyes closed, but as Ophelia spoke of Alabastre there was another small shiver down his spine. Worry. Utterly too much worry. But his eyes open, looking towards Ophelia as she spoke.

"Del said to lock up August? And I know that feeling, because I am in the same boat." A small sigh. "Victory, or fading away alone, forgotten by time and fate." A sigh would leave him.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[03:47] Ophelia cos Montclaire says, "Well. The Faith did and it seems as if Del is leading them in your absence."
[03:47] Ophelia cos Montclaire says, "So.... Yes, Del."
[03:48] Ophelia cos Montclaire says, "But August recommended Alexander step down to save theprisoners. To save thousands that would die if Myllenoris entered the gates."
[03:48] Romani cos Montclaire says, "And if they are listening to Del, they are unllikely to listen to myself. And I was unaware Del did that."
[03:51] Finley nodded along with what Ophelia said, but it was Romani's mention that he'd be committing treason that brought the Teraphim the most issue. With his crystal hand he clutched some of the bandages around his form and tore them away, revealing his pale chest.

Over the scar tissue that had formed was an ugly pattern of countless stitches. Veins and blood vessels had clearly popped around the area, and some of the bone that pressed against the skin stuck out, formed and shaped and visible due to it being formed of metal. It was an ugly wound, one that any who suffered something like it would have been believed dead, yet Finley stood standing and breathing.

"All of you Osronans fear treason. You fear disloyalty and questioning your rulers. It's always been the difference between me and most everyone else. I do not back down from the lies, from the mistakes, from the poor decisions of a leader. I question Asta, I stood against her, Romani. And thisis what she did to me." There was anger and frustration in Finley's voice that had never really been seen by the Stellus before. "Marie said the same as you. Lloyd and Odin. Most every Osronan I've met."

"If you don't act now, if both of you don't do something now, it won't be your home that you'll be afraid to lose because of your reputation, you'll lose your home because Myllenoris will knocks those walls down!" he exclaimed, trying to bring them to face a reality that was more than likely. Heavy breaths were taken, and some of those still somewhat freshly stitched tears began to drip small drops of blood that trailed down Finley's chest and stomach, though he didn't care.

"..I apologize." he said after a second. "For the outburst." his voice lowered. "But I've heard this hesitation far too many times now. I've heard this fear from so many. There are things in this world worth living and dying and fighting for, and if we miss our chance at doing just that for them, then that is where we have and will truly fail."
(Finley)
[03:59] Romani would turn towards Finley as they stared to speak up. Those heterochromatic eyes would stare towards the Teraphim as they spoke, silence for a few moments.

"I have been raised all my life to be a Noble, to be a tool for the Monarch to use. I have always worked towards my duty, always tried to make Orsona a place that is good, a place that it is supposed to be. Strip away that, and what is left?"

"I have already been stripped away of Stellushood, and faith. I was almost stripped away of Ophe by Syth. You are asking, trying to strip away the final bit of me. It is more then treason if I do this. I will never be able to go home, and I also will become nothing. Because I am weak. Because all I can do is try to make people listen, and if all I have is stripped and taken from me?"

"Then no one has even that reason to listen to me left." He turns, looking towards Finley, staring him in the eyes.

"I am rankless. Finley, if I told you, without my nobility, without my faith, without anything, with you knowing of all my failures in life, to lay down your weapon, what reason can you think to listen to me?"

"If I have nothing to even stand on, how can my voice even be heard?"

"Tell me, Finley." His eyes would remain, staring towards the Blackcloak as their voice quieted.
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[04:05] Finley stared back at Romani and grit his teeth. He heard everything the Stellus said he had lost, everything that had been taken from him, and the last few things he still held too, but it didn't stop the Teraphim from glaring down at him.

"Nobility, rank, file, order. Listen to yourself, Romani- all of those things, every single one is only an accolade added onto your shoulder, carried for as long as you carry it. They help turn people to listening to you, but it is not those things that make them truly pay attention."

"You want me to tell you how you can be heard? I will tell you why it will be heard." Finley shifted closer. He didn't grab Romani by the collar or anything rough, but it appeared like he might.

"Because above all of that, you're cared for."

"You became the Stellus because people trusted and cared for you. Because you saw a better world that could be worked toward. We all did. Are you telling me you've given up on that idea? That you're ready to concede it? Would you really prefer to return to your home quiet and content knowing that there's a chance some bigger conspiracy has dictated every choice you've made up until this point? That your kingdom, should it still stand, had been caught up in a web of lies stretching back to our youth?"

"You doubt the hearts of those back home. You doubt Marie, Ilsa, Kofe. You're doubting everyone who knows you and who is suffering because of Alexander and Nebula. If you believe no one will listen, then you're believing there's no one left in that city who cares for you. And if that's truly the case, then you tell me, Romani. Why would you ever wish to return?"
(Finley)
[04:08] Ophelia shook her head.

"I was always raised to be loyal to the Crown. Period. To Osrona - it's kind of in the name, you know," She commented, "If I acted out against Alexander even if he fired me, and declared Romani no longer the Stellus it would tarnish my entire family. And I'm not talking about Romani's family... I'm talking about the Soleis family."

But now she looked towards Romani,

"But you don't need to necessarily act out against Alexander, Romani. Make your beliefs known... About the spirits, about things beyond the witch... Stuff. Leave that to me, and I'll tread carefully. Once Kofe is out of prison I'll have him travel to Alabastre and talk to Basil to see if he knows anything. He might be able to follow up with Scarlett as well, finding any more information.... Maybe more 'friends'."

"What I told you two cannot leave this room, please. We need to act quietly on this uh.... We'll call it the 'friend' situation. If we alert them we could be in danger, or they could go further into hiding."

"Romani you can speak your mind without risking just who you are. I know how you were raised, trust me, I do."

She paused then as Finley shifted that much closer, and his words? A small smile cracked beneath her exterior before she'd nod.

"He's right. Marie, Kofe… Probably even August now - probably others. They'll listen, Romani."
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[04:18] Accolades. Burdens. The various things that had been handed to him, forced upon, or chosen by him ever since he was young. That and the training he had received from his Father, the training that ever made him shiver, ever made him resist.

Because strip away all of those things, and what was he? Until that moment, only one word filled that gap.

A Failure.

And yet, another two words were given, perhaps attributed to him.

Cared for.

…

Romani would sit upon that bed, staring into Finley's eyes silently for a moment. No words pass his lips. His eyes slowly close as he shifted in the bed, falling onto his back.

"..."

His arms fold on his chest.

His eyes glanced towards Ophelia, biting his lip. "I am afraid that any action I make would also tarnish our families. That Alexander would act against us if I spread rumors of Nebula being a Witch, or ofthe previous Faith information being incorrect."

"So I want you to get everything from the Montclaire estate, everything of importance, and bring it here. Our child, what is in the chests, that sort of thing. Because a house is a house." his eyes close, then open.

"I am going to need wood and paper."
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[04:23] She blinked, holding her hands up - or rather, the one that wasn't holding his hand.

"... Don't worry about spreading rumors of Nebula being a Witch, Romani. I'll continue to investigate and we'll cross that barricade when it comes." She said gently, a small smile lighting her features up. "But if he acts against us due to you letting the world know what Del put out there was incorrect.... Then that's on him. That makes him a bad a person for treating people who were so loyal to him no matter what like that."

But he told her to fetch... Everything from their home and she lapsed into a fitful silence before her lips purse.

"Romani. Are you sure?"
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)
[04:27] "People shouldn't fear their leaders, Romani." Finley said, leaning back and now realizing his front was covered in lines of blood. "Leaders should fear their people." he confirmed, recognizing the idea that power shouldn't flow downward, but upward instead.

"Now's the time to stand for something larger than ourselves or be swept aside by the storm." He said, tying some of the bandages back around himself. He didn't do a great job of it.

"I can go get some paper. And wood. The two of you can work out the details." Finley said, already headed to the door.
(Finley)
[04:31] "If we have speculation, should we not voice it?" Romani would asked, glancing towards Ophelia. "It is what Serea would have done if not cut down by Syth. And you do have reason to believe she is a Witch, more then my half believing. My main worry is that it may cause you harm or they may try to catch you or our child to manipulate me."

Something he had been taught all his life. Always expect the worst of others. "A king as decisively. I imagine he will do so, regardless. Besides, he has already severed his ties with me, has he not?" A small nod.

"Might as well stick an Orn in my name while I am at this."

He sighed. "I do not imagine I have anything to make people fear me. But I can write." Even if it was all he could do.

"So, you want me to write just about what Del was wrong about, or what fully?"
(Romani cos Montclaire)
[04:33] {Item} You picked up Paper (Blank). Dropped by Finley. .
[04:38] "We have speculation, but if I have the ability to truly investigate this whereas Serea was incapable of doing so... I want to pick up with what she wasn't able to do. Just... Give it a few days, Romani. Please." She pleaded, frowning.

"I've seen how Alexander acts when he has to defend Nebula. He tells Marie to shut up. Marie! His cousin! His actual blood family! Perhaps they will try to do something with us, may try to stop me, or..." She trailed off. Their child.

Her head tilted to the side, to the point it cracked. She released the built up stress.

"So that's why I'm asking you to wait. But write whatever else you want. It's up to you."
(Ophelia cos Montclaire)