Caesar's hand travels inside his fancy cape, sliding a certain item towards Maiya. A white mask, in the shape of a skeleton skull-- undoubtedly, one of the Black Market's rarities.

"First of all, I'm Goetia." his tones were careless, showing no hesitation to revealing such important secret. After all, the other person was also a member. Nodding, the man continued.

"Second. Aetherius has surrendered to the Coalition. We all know this isn't true. We all know Kayeliun is a putrid leader, someone who needs to be dead. Therefore, while I am not able to talk to Karma, I ask you to transmit my thoughts."

"I was planning a Coup since day one. This is my sole purpose, regarding this army. I was waiting to reach the rank of Exemplar, but... the current news are enough. My ambition reached a lot of people, and they are ready to take this state... to create a new one. A new place, not allied to any nation. Of course, it would be a new nation itself."

Pausing, the uniform was no longer needed. Gesticulating, a quick movement got rid of the Coalition symbol with him, the cape inutilized.

"I will ask the help of Ezmara. If we succeed, all territories will be equally shared. Mutual benefit."
(Caesar Valerius)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Leaning back in her spot, she'd cant her head off to the side. "You know, now that I think about it... Makes sense." She comments as she drums her fingers against the table in idle fashion.

"And no-- Zaruma wouldn't surrender. It's the doing of Tragedy alone."

Leaning forward momentarily, she would squint in his direction. "Though, you do know why I'm here, right? It's not because I just like to take idle strolls into Jianghese territory. It's because immediately, upon hearing the announcement from JaDrako, superpowered magi all met to decide fate. We spoke to people such as Geese in a singular room. It's been decided. Ezmara won't sit back idly while people such as Kayeliun flaunt their stolen power. The only reason the people of Ardent remained complacent, according to those in the room, is because of Hatsune Panic. Who they simply allowed Tragedy to kill."

It was all so much to take in. How did everything go to hell in a handbasket at two million miles per hour?

"Karma seeks to make a structure of shared power between the remainders of Agartha. The details, of course, need to be hashed out. But we're here for good reason."

Fingers move through her hair momentarily.

"You'll have to start culling all those loyal to Kayeliun's cause. The lot of you. Getting them places alone, attacking them, causing revolt in these streets. I suggest calling a 'meeting' of the Black Market to draw Xoconan in, dressing people we think are strong enough up, and popping him like a plasma filled balloon.

After all, he turncoated toward the promises of power. It's about time to show him that such disrespect is not tolerated. Must be that Valmasian blood of his-- no matter how hard you teach the kids, you just can't fix bad blood."
(Maiya Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tired eyes scrutinize back, eventually letting the voice part from his lips once again.

"I am not really sure-- but I MIGHT be able to turn Xoconan to our side. If I am able to talk, of course, with people over my side protecting me. I wouldn't risk myself if the conversation fails. But yes, our group might grow bigger if my words are able to walk through the streets. Currently I'm powerless, since talkin' might get me killed."

Sighing, his digits constantly touched the table, somewhat anxious about everything. The situation went from zero to a hundred really fast.

"Xoconan might be seeking power, and under the current details, our side might be more promising. I'll make a speech in Ardent once I can guarantee my safety and all."

"But yes. A lot of people want this new place. They're all tired of the homelands, nations that ignored loyal fighters."
(Caesar Valerius)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maiya Vindict asks, "...As much as I want to believe that, honestly, do you really want someone who flips sides haphazardly like that?"
Caesar Valerius says, "For now, we need men to fight."
Caesar Valerius says, "We can deal with him later."
Maiya Vindict says, "If you think that's the best course of action, then..."
Caesar Valerius says, "Yes."
Caesar Valerius says, "Controlling him is also rather... easy."
Caesar Valerius says, "Talkin' to Lotlhuitl might be enough."
Maiya Vindict says, "However, I do believe Geese will be able to convince Ardent as a whole."
Caesar Valerius says, "I'll talk to Geese too."
Maiya Vindict says, "They ah-- look up to the weird masked fucker."
Maiya shrugs her shoulders.
(Maiya Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Caesar Valerius asks, "Is he hiding in Ezmara?"
Maiya Vindict says, "No, he's here."
Maiya Vindict asks, "Do you think Ezmara is safe?"
Caesar Valerius says, "Huh, might not be."
Maiya Vindict says, "Because Kayeliun, undoubtedly, was going to turn her sights there next."
Caesar Valerius says, "We need a place to prepare the army."
Caesar Valerius says, "They gotta stay somewhere."
Maiya Vindict says, "Mmnn."
Maiya Vindict says, "Perhaps Adsila's encampment."
Maiya Vindict says, "Since she'll be on our side above else."
Caesar Valerius asks, "Kas'Chei?"
Caesar Valerius says, "Could work."
Maiya Vindict says, "Yeah."
Caesar Valerius says, "Alright."
Caesar Valerius says, "I'll talk to the people I know."
Maiya Vindict says, "Sounds good and decent. But it's really good to pick off the people who remain loyal to Kayeliun one by one, do remember that."
Caesar Valerius says, "First, I'll gather the allies."
Caesar Valerius says, "After that, we pick them off, or whatever."
Maiya gives a thumbs up.
(Maiya Vindict)
Caesar reaches the epicenter of Ardent, followed by Nobody. The crimson lightning radiates, and soon, a single bolt crepitates, aiming to pull attention to himself. His booming voice echoes through the place, with open arms-- showing the importance and the ability to reach it all.

"I'm sorry, but I don't want to be part of this tragic and morbid state, that's not my business. I don't want to rule or conquer anyone. My path wants to free everyone. We all want to help one another, we all want to forget about the nations dominating us. We all want to forget about misery. We don't want to hate and despise one another. In this Agartha, I believe we don't want to keep being thrashed by dictators, tyrants!

But many have lost their ways.

Kayeliun has poisoned men's souls, has barricaded the world with hate; has goose-stepped us into misery and bloodshed.

We have developed technology, but we have shut ourselves in; the Spires are able to change fate, but the constant need to worship nations that have forsaken us steal such power.

Our knowledge has made us cynical, our cleverness hard and unkind. We think too much and feel too little.

Without these qualities life will be violent and all will be lost.

Even now my voice is reaching the people of Ardent, thousands of despairing men, women and little children, victims of a system that makes men torture and imprison innocent people.

To those who can hear me I say: do not despair.

The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of being subjugated by Archons, by putrid creatures made of Chaos, the bitterness of men who fear the way of progress and want nothing but destruction. The hate of men will pass and dictators will die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people. And so long as men die, liberty will never perish.

Soldiers! Don't give yourselves to brutes, men who despise you and enslave you, who regiment your lives, tell you what to do, what to think and what to feel, who drill you, diet you, treat you as cattle, use you as cannon fodder!

Don't give yourselves to these unnatural men, machine men, with machine minds and machine hearts. You are not slaves! You are not cattle!

You are men!

You have the power to change everything in your hearts. You don't hate, only the unloved hate, the unloved and the unnatural.

Soldiers!

Don't fight for slavery! Fight for liberty!

The kingdom of God is within man.

Not one man, nor a group of men, but in all men: in you! You the people have the power, the power to able to conquer even the Spires, the power to create happiness. You the people have the power to make this life free and beautiful, to make this life a wonderful adventure. Then, in the name of a new state, in the name of everyone against this rottengovernment, let us use that power, let us all unite!

Let us fight for a new place, a decent place that will give men a chance to work, that will give you the future and old age and security.

By the promise of these things, brutes have risen to power, but they lie. They do not fulfil their promise, they never will. The Overseer breaks her chains but enslaves the people.

Now let us fight to fulfil that promise. Let us fight to free the world, to do away with national barriers, to do away with oppression, with hate and intolerance. Let us fight for a world of reason, and to end this and every constant, disheartening leadership! To this, I will ask one last time:

Soldiers!

In the name of liberty, independence, freedom, or however you want to call it:

Let us all unite!"

The Elsyrean lost himself in the middle of the speech-- utilizing charismatic tones, shouting, showing the apex of his capabilities to try and convince more and more people. His diaphragm inflated with velocity, trying to pull more and more air to his lungs.

"Those who wish to fight against the current government, join us in Kas'Chei! For a brighter future!"
(Caesar Valerius)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JaDrako Kumo exclaims, "Hiya!"
Kalandra Vindict exclaims, "Mister Man-Man!"
Kalandra Vindict asks, "I think your real name is JaDrako, though. Who came up with it?"
Galmor says, "Galmor...was interupted by the weird non-galmor."
Galmor turns his attention to the random loud speaker in the epicenter.
(Galmor)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "*turns his attention to the random loud speaker in the epicenter."
Galmor turns his attention to the random loud speaker in the epicenter.
(Galmor)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fuyuki clutched her wrists, standing stiff at the immense speech. Her chest felt tight with fear and apprehension and fear, but his words were resolute. They were strong.

She could do nothing but give a firm nod, stepping forward a little.
(Fuyuki Date)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "The non-Galmor talks too much."
Galmor says, "The non-Glamor talks too much."
Liu strides her way to the center of the square next to Nobody - er, Nox - and Caesar, looking just slightly bemused at the speech. She approaches them after it's done, quietly handing them each a small sheet of parchment with some words written on them.

Well, she assumes they're with each other, anyway.

Things are already in the works. Patience. We have allies. Do not make a target of yourself. The time is coming.
(Liu Shunjiao)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Liu then quietly shuffles off back to her fence.
(Liu Shunjiao)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JaDrako listens clear, the speech was well spoken he couldn't help but smile. The Drakanite laughed he knew not many would stand for Kayeliun's sudden change.

A thumbs up was given to Caesar.
(JaDrako Kumo)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rangel blinked, listening on as he heard what he needed to hear. Though wherether he accepted those things to heart remained a mystery. He simply slipped out and walked away.
(Rangel Marlow)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "That speech was quite something, Galmor thinks."
JaDrako Kumo says, "My parents made up the name JaDrako, don't really know them well or why they chose it."
The Nagual stands close by. Her rifle is still slung across her back, her amber eyes glancing over the crowd. Her eyes catch Fuyuki who steps forward, they catch the Vindicts, they even go over the two Galmors - Or rather, Galmor and Rai's illusory form.

She is mostly wordless, but she didn't need to speak for people to understand her position on the matter, considering she was right next to Caesar. This was the first time, she felt. The first time in a long time that she felt someone saw a problem and decided to do something about it.

The Gods be damned, she wasn't about to leave someone out to dry.

"Let's FUCK 'EM UP." She'd declare, before glancing back at Liu and taking note of the... Well, note.
(Nox)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "That speech was quite something, Glamor thinks too."
Caesar Valerius says, "Hiding our stance will only damage our power."
Ranma Kravshera asks, "Woah, what'd I miss?"
The little impressionable girl was inevitably sucked up in the atmosphere Caesar had established and raised a little fist, shouting:

"Yeah!"

When he was done.

And then she shyly hides in her mother's shawl.
(Kalandra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "Whats a Kas'Chei, you big non-Galmor."
Galmor says, "I meant that with the most respect."
Nox says, "Southern border."
Ariana had made her way into the square somewhat late within the man's speech. She manages to catch it halfway through, and is thoroughly confused. This confusion is exacerbated by the fact that there are two of a person within the square. In general, this place is confusion.

To her, he makes quite an argument, even if she disagrees with what he's saying. She just stands off to the side and listens, while also eyeing the two Galmors.
(Ariana)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor asks, "South..?"
Galmor says, "Where Glamor's house stands."
Nox says, "Gehenna-border."
Galmor says, "I thought so."
Galmor says, "They like Galmor there."
Maiya lifting an arm up, she wraps it around Kalandra, holding the small girl close to her side. Kya. An impressionable little rebel, huh?
(Maiya Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "...That woman behind loud speech giver man."
Galmor says, "Long staff."
Galmor says, "Hmm..."
Liu Shunjiao whispers: <Liu quite surreptitiously hands Caesar a note: If you announce it they will come in force. We are waiting for Kayeliun, Xoconan or Tragedy to come here with a minimal escort before we destroy them. The Esmarans and Jianghese are rebelling. But announcing it early will lose us the element of surprise.>
Nox whispers: ... Liu.
Nox whispers: Well, fuck it, it's Caesar's thing.
Galmor says, "Galmor will travel to Kei'Chan or something like that."
Caesar Valerius whispers: We fuckin' attack them at full force.
Caesar Valerius whispers: It's finally time to change something.
Maiya Vindict whispers something.
* You have been awarded 2 Roleplay Points! *
Galmor , the one in the west, snapped it's fingers, shadows bursting off his form lie a popped balloon.
(Galmor)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Galmor says, "Hmm."
Liu just gives Caesar a bemused snort, shaking her head. She draws her hand across her neck in a gesture that can hardly be mistaken.

She mouths a single word in an exaggerated sort of way:

Patience.

She taps her walking-stick against the ground once, smiling serenely at the two of them, and then ambles back over towards the fence.
(Liu Shunjiao)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra Vindict asks, "Where are your parents now, Sir Drako?"
JaDrako Kumo says, "Sheng."
turned his head to look at the illusionist or something like that, he'd frown as he'd notice the Galmor illusion had faded. Leaving the person he once saw that hurt Galmor's feelings.
(Galmor)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Shouting from Ardent's main crossroad. Cheering? Tension in the air, perhaps.

Lotlhuitl's ears were pricked up, her metal staff glowing with distinct green runes as she walked with purpose through the crowd. Each movement from the woman was accompanied by the sound of metal jostling against metal. The countless items of jewellery she wore caught the light.

"Quiet..!"

Lotlhuitl of the Cruxati's voice was NOT loud. Indeed, the Nagual's single command likely would have been completely missed, if it wasn't for the fact that, feeling ignored, she had pointed her staff skywards and shot a tremendous BOLT of lightning skywards.

-KRAKHAW-

"What is happening here?" The Chosen of the Coalition demanded, standing shoulder to shoulder with Ranma Kravshera as she stared around the crossroads.

She couldn't help wondering, what the heck she had just missed?
(Lotlhuitl)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra Vindict asks, "Is Sheng far away?"
JaDrako Kumo says, "Very."
JaDrako Kumo says, "No way back there either."
Kalandra Vindict says, "Aw..."
Kalandra gives JaDrako a sad look.
(Kalandra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra Vindict exclaims, "You must miss your parents!"
JaDrako Kumo says, "I don't even know their names."
Kalandra Vindict says, "Oh.."
Kalandra Vindict says, "That's even sadder."
JaDrako Kumo says, "I guess."
Kalandra Vindict says, "Don't worry! You've got me. I'll be your friend."
Kalandra reassuringly pats him on the shoulder.
(Kalandra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JaDrako Kumo exclaims, "Hehe. Thanks Kalandra!"
Nox steps forward, her eyes now trained on Lotlhuitl with a soft smile on her lips. A confident smile on her lips. Lightning crackles about her body in small arcs, clinging to the hairs on her arms.

One might wonder when and how her rifle was suddenly in her hand, but she points it downwards and smiles mirthlessly at her fellow Nagual.

"Fuck Kayeliun, fuck Demons, and fuck Tyrants. That's what's happenin' here. We're talkin' about the freedom of Agarthan people, who bleed and die on Agarthan soil, who gotta pay tribute to governments and lands that don't give a shit about 'em."

"You got a problem with that?"
(Nox)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ranma Kravshera says, "..."
Ranma clenched his fist tightly, not even caring that Nox looked like she was ready to pull that trigger. He fistpumped the air, with what was perhaps the most genuine smile he'd ever had in years.

"I thought I was 'da only one thinkin' the same thing..I'm so happy everyone's on the same page here. I just wish Simon was here- fuck, he was right.."
(Ranma Kravshera)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lotlhuitl says, "What."
Dajin Karasu whispers something.
Irenna whispers something.
Dajin Karasu whispers something.
His shimmering armor reflected the sunlight, clanking with bodily movements until reaching Lotlhuitl. After the approach, a hand was extended towards the runescriber, and Caesar's serene voice escaped his lips.

"A new nation. Not Ardent. Not Gehenna. A new place, where homelands can't really exert their power under the people. A nation that wasn't forsaken by a putrid Jianghese empire or Valmasian forces. A revolt to end with Kayeliun and Cruxati's insanity."

"Join us, please."

Delineating a smile, the digits danced, further expecting the palm to be picked up.
(Caesar Valerius)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ranma Kravshera says, "Man, you guys can count me in. I ain't gonna hide my disdain for all of 'dis no longer..'dis ain't what I signed up for."
Ariana moves away from the crackly woman in front of her, wanting to get a better view of what's going on. She listens in, looking between each of the argumentative people within the square.

The new laws DO seem a little... suffocating, but is this necessary? Maybe.
(Ariana)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starforge says, "Anci, I'm glad to see you're safe in here."
Mujin Karasu whispers something.
Kalandra Vindict asks, "Sir Drako, why did Chieftess Kayeliun do that?"
Mujin Karasu whispers something.
JaDrako Kumo whispers something.
In a word, Haruhi is -

confused,

by her sudden introduction to the midpoint of a bunch of various passionate declarations. Foreseeing some sort of violence or another, she sliiiiides her way a little closer to Ranma and Lotlhuitl. While her mask provides a nice pokerface, her body language communicates some small amount of discomfort as she looks over in Lotlhuitl's direction.

Feeling out the situation, it seems, before she acts or draws conclusions.
(Haruhi Noriega)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nox wanders up next to Caesar.
(Nox)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Irenna whispers something.
Kalandra couldn't help but narrow her eyes with a skeptical look at the gender-indefinite man. Was that really it? A personality trait was the reason they were all living tormented lives?
(Kalandra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

With small belongings in their hands - mostly small cloth bags and pouches - they approached the square. A sigh followed, of relief most likely as they saw JaDrako and the others, specially Anci, standing there.

"You've already heard of everything, right?" they asked as they settled besides Anci under that peculiar lamp post, fixing some of those pouches inside their several layers of clothes.
(Starforge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dajin Karasu whispers something.
Rai remained perfectly still as he watched the decisions fold out, his body encased in a faint illusion that gave him a look of calm. At least outwardly.
(Rai Yasahiro)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xin says, "Viva la revolucion."
Anci leans against the lamp post as s familiar face shows up. Which was Starforge. She gives him a nod to greet him. Curious why he packed so much.

"Hm? No. I didnt? Whats wrong?", she asked with a yawn afterwards, underlining her calm manner.
(Anci)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JaDrako kept a eye on Lothuitl he figures she'd side with Cruxati due to Xoconan, but who knows.
(JaDrako Kumo)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The colorful one tied some of those pouches to those cloth belts around their waist, as well as placing most of the actual belongings within their clothes.

"The Cruxati is now siding with the demons from the North, the word is that their Chieftess is under the influence of the leader of the Demon settlement." a sigh was yet again made as those pouches finally were tied, and those golden eyes finally moving to Anci against the lamp post. "I've come as fast as I could this morning, last night the hut was invaded by one of the demons. It's not safe anymore. I saw you were gone by morning light, and just hoped you heard of it all and came here."
(Starforge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anci rubs her chin, thinking visably, she widens her eyes for a moment, accompanied with a tilting head at one point.

"Who did invade the hut? How did he, she or it look like?", she asked, which was clearly the point of focus.
(Anci)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"A gigantic insect." they sighed, crossing their arms and mostly hugging themselves with both palms wrapping around each arm, the shoulders being brought down a little. It seemed to be a cold morning, at least for Starforge's own standards. "I didn't ask for a name, but it approached me making some...Noises. I told it to leave, and it did."

With yet even another sigh of concern and a worrisome expression, they quickly shook their head, bringing a small smile back.

"After that we all received the word that the Ezmaran were relocating, and I told our tribesmen to do the same. They should be south of here now, near the border."
(Starforge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anci clearly looks confused about all of this. She just slept for a few hours, only to wake up to this? Scandalous!

"I guess I missed more than I thought", she said, tapping her chin again. She looks around, spotting Drako next to her. Speaking to him for a brief moment.

"Drako? What do you know about this all? And why should Ezmara relocate themselves? Nothing makes sense anymore.", she said, sighing and giving in to the confusion.
(Anci)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge says, "Hi."
Edge says, "Caesar."
JaDrako Kumo whispers something.
Edge is holding Aysels arm behind her back waiting for the coalition members to acknolowedge him.
(Edge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rai Yasahiro says, "In a moment edge. Important business."
Edge says, "Rai."
Edge asks, "Can you enchant chest's yet?"
Rai Yasahiro says, "Exalted runes only."
Edge asks, "Maiya would require your services, you know who she is yes?"
Rai Yasahiro says, "I do not."
Edge asks, "Do you see the woman over by the meeting hall draped in red and purple. Big green sword?"
Edge says, "That's her."
Well, fuck.

Lotlhuitl had blinked. One slow deliberate action, as she looked first to Nox, then to Ramna. She'd only just finished enchanting his fucking robes. Indeed, blood still made her gauntlets sticky.. the mythril distinctly gleaming red with thick ichor.

The Cruxati Runescribe took pause at Nox's words. Tension in her limbs, Lotlhuitl had frowned. "So what, war again? Are you not satisfied with Gaiar Aetherius's surrender? Will you people be happy only when it is obliterated?"

Her gaze inspected Caesar's outstretched hand.

"I am Cruxati," she said. And yet, somehow one may have got the impression that it wasn't an outright no. The Nagual's tail flicked, her ears pinning backwards as she plainly considered what had been said.

"Caesar. Do you think me insane? You ask me to betray my Chieftess. To betray my people. And what of my husband? Do you expect me to leave him, too?"
(Lotlhuitl)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aysel whispers something.
Anci whispers something.
Edge says, "Quit talking thievin bandit."
JaDrako Kumo whispers something.
JaDrako Kumo whispers something.
Dajin Karasu whispers something.
Irenna whispers something.
Rai's illusions shift from a self concealing box to a small set of floating runes, hovering slightly over himself to his left to position them behind Caesar. They were runes of the third tier. From left to right they showed the runes for strength enhancements, then a Metaphysical Rune, then finally the formula for an Anti-Magic collar.

He hoped Lotlhuitl would understand the message as he turned towards Maiya.
(Rai Yasahiro)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anci whispers something.
JaDrako Kumo whispers something.
Starforge whispers something.
Starforge whispers something.
Levelling her gaze toward Rai, she would bring her fingers upwards, brushing them through her lightening strands there.

"Mmrrr. I'm told you're a Daemon Tamer as well as a runic scribe?"

Her eyes trail idly from Rai to the scene behind, then back upon present company.
(Maiya Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Yes, that's exactly what I am asking."

His serious gaze intensified, never escaping Lotlhuitl's countenance. Such yellow irises were as bright as ever, related to the shimmering armor, despite being a Coalition robe. His hand was still extended, and the speech continued.

"I can't control your mind. But if you want to follow a depraved leader, one with the 'quality' of being a very powerful tyrant, well, that's... unfortunate. I don't expect you to betray Xoconan, no. I expect him to join too."

Staring, the expression was unclouded, open-- almost crystalline, inviting people to peer into him, as a person who didn't omit anything under the last sentences.

"If you don't join us, Lotlhuitl, you will be our enemy. And that's not something I want! My desire is over liberty, a state not chained by the nations outside Agartha. Why are you so loyal to a place that has forsaken you? Why is your loyalty back to a wicked leader?"

"I'll ask one more time...!"

His palm never showed hesitation, but the words explained the member in evidence-- it was probably the last time.
(Caesar Valerius)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Starforge whispers something.
Starforge whispers something.
Anci whispers something.
Rai opens his satchel as a daemon leaps forth from it's cube, the man nodding to Maiya. "I am, Master tier runes, I hear you desire one for your chestpiece?"
(Rai Yasahiro)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Solace waddles on over and pokes a finger into Aysel's side.
(Solace Huitzilopochtli)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aysel squirms as she's poked! Given that she's being held still by Edge, it's probably not much movement.
(Aysel)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ooooooh boy.

On a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is knowing what the fuck is going on and 10 is having no goddamn clue, Haruhi is at about a 7, and that number is slowly rising. Her gaze flits from speaker to speaker as she grows more and more confused.

Though she had gotten some idea of what was going on, why it was being talked about here and now, in the open escaped her, and the likelihood of this devolving into something totally terrible slowly, slowly rose.

Haruhi takes a few steps forward, inserting herself beside Caesar and Lotlhuitl.

She lets out a breathy request through the mask.

"Please, whatever's going on... Can we -

can we keep this civil, at least right here? Ardent Cliff has seen enough blood in all th' years I can remember."
(Haruhi Noriega)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge remains firm. He wouldn't let go of miss five finger discount.
(Edge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maiya Vindict says, "Hrm. No, for my chests."
Maiya Vindict says, "I'm willing to trade some Daemons from a past Ezmaran for such, too."
Rai Yasahiro says, "Of course, I can provide unbreakable enchantments for containters."
Maiya Vindict says, "Here, follow me, then."
Liu merely watches everything in silence, hands resting on her walking-stick and a serene sort of expression on her face.
(Liu Shunjiao)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Solace Huitzilopochtli asks, "Hey, mister. Why are you holding kids?"
Mitra Vindict says, "M-mmff . ."
Edge says, "Cause kids a thief."
Edge says, "Oh Jun."
Aysel exclaims, "Am not!"
Mitra latches his arms around Kalandra, tightening their clutch upon his twin's small form into an unbearable chokehold. Wetness adorns his eyes.
(Mitra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge continues the train of bringing problems to jun. Poor guy.
(Edge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mitra Vindict whispers something.
Jun Gao says, "Yes...."
Edge says, "This girl broke into Maiya's house, which used to be the orphanage."
Kalandra Vindict whispers something.
Aysel says, "I did not."
Mitra Vindict whispers something.
Edge says, "Look, the more you lie the worse its going to be."
Kalandra Vindict whispers something.
Nox asks, "--- Wait a fuckin' second, what?"
Jun Gao says, "Eh..."
Aysel says, "Well I guess that's a good thing, since I'm not lying."
Mitra Vindict whispers something.
Edge says, "I can bring maiya to repeat what she heard as she walked in."
Nox feels her attention slowly move towards the conversation between Edge and Jun.
(Nox)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra Vindict whispers something.
Edge says, "Not to mention the steel legs you stole form the gehennan house."
Balanth says, "GREAT NOW another sirenian friend is dead"
Aysel says, "Listen, there's clearly something important going on, so just let me- Walk. Away."
Edge says, "No."
Aysel says, "Yes."
Jun Gao asks, "First off...they have a house here?"
Jun Gao says, "Silence."
Edge strengths his grip on her wrist.
(Edge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge says, "Yes, geese gave it to em."
Edge asks, "Follow me to it?"
Kalandra Vindict exclaims, "It's Papa!"
Mitra Vindict says, "Yup."
Kalandra Vindict says, "He seems to be spacing out again... oh boy."
Mitra Vindict says, "That's pops for ya . ."
Mitra Vindict exclaims, "Solace!"
Mitra Vindict asks, "Where's your sis?"
Mitra Vindict asks, "Did everybody make it outta Ezmara?"
Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "Uhhh."
Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "She should be sleep in Aunty Adsy's place."
Mitra Vindict says, "That's . . bad. I think."
Solace blinks a small bit. Seemingly CLUELESS...
(Solace Huitzilopochtli)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mitra tilts his head to the side, arcing a wave hand before the Huitzilopochtli several times.
(Mitra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mitra Vindict asks, "Ya' ok?"
The colorful dressed one moves across the square to take a seat on that bench, apparently still unused to how everything was or should be in the Ardent Cliff.

After coming from an evacuating Gehenna, sitting down seemed to be among the best choices to be making, at least.
(Starforge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra Vindict says, "Solaceeeeeeee. Hi."
Strilkin Durgit is famished. He makes his way into Ardent's square. He is looking about to find bustling groups of travelers within the vicinity. he has not seen so many travelers grouping together in such a manner as of recent though thinks there might be many reasons for people to be here besides commerce. Strilkin Durgit observes the grounds and motions of even the folks moving alone.

So many travelers are having children. The generations are coming and going. Strilkin Durgit watches about for any familiar faces though is unable to find any immediately recognizable faces. Are the times changing so much so that not even Strilkin is able to find a friend during his travels? No. Strilkin Durgit has not been frequenting Ardent as much due to his responsibilities and has no qualms with himself about handling his responsibilities well.

It is sensible for there to be many people in Agartha that Strilkin Durgit has not seen yet especially in Ardent. Ardent is a city of growth mean to go through change constantly. Strilkin Durgit does not fear or mind change though the manner of consistency of which change occurs is always a matter for him to adjust to. Strilkin Durgit stretches and yawns in Ardent's square. He swishes his tail slowly while bellowing, "Is there a Master Blacksmith available? Has anyone seen Bob Hatake?".
(Strilkin Durgit)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "Hiiii..."
Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "Uhhh, I'm a little..."
Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "A little tired, I guess. Lotsa stuff."
Mitra Vindict says, "Tell me 'bout it . ."
Kalandra Vindict says, "I feel great. I slept for so long..."
Mitra Vindict says, "H-hmf. I was worryin' about you."
Kalandra Vindict says, "You're such a worrywart."
Mitra Vindict says, "Can't live without you, y'know that."
Ariana hears the shouting even over the massive argument that seems to be going on in the middle of the square, and so she approaches its source. "Well, I'm not much of a -master- Blacksmith, but maybe I could help you out. What's wrong?" She looks over the Kitsune man, folding her hands over her front. Sure, she wanted to watch what was going on, but this is more relevant to her, at least.
(Ariana)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra helplessly gives a wide smile. She nods.
(Kalandra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge asks, "You doin ok?"
Maxwell walked until he spotted three unfamiliar kids. "Well hello."
(Maxwell Di Maria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JaDrako Kumo says, "Begone."
JaDrako Kumo says, "Thot"
Maxwell Di Maria asks, "Hm?"
The mention of smithing definitely caught the attention of that traditional gehennan, but they never mentioned anything. It was still a trade to improve, and to even have the pretense of calling themselves a Master would be an under delivering statement towards the fox-man who asked for it.

Though, those golden eyes of Starforge moved to meet not only Durgit but also Ariana, who seemed to be respond. Curiosity was in place to see what would come out of that.
(Starforge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mitra Vindict asks, "Tha's a new sword, Draks?"
Kalandra Vindict says, "Hi, stranger."
JaDrako Kumo says, "Yea Yea."
Mitra Vindict says, "Huh."
Maxwell Di Maria says, "I haven't seen you three around before."
Kalandra Vindict exclaims, "Not surprising, that!"
Mitra Vindict says, "Ya just haven't paid attention, mister, yup."
Edge says, "Rai."
Edge says, "Take care of that Daemon."
Rai Yasahiro asks, "Which one?"
Edge says, "Dominic"
Rai Yasahiro says, "This one seems.. hmm."
Qi Lan fades out the background.
(Qi Lan)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge says, "He's..."
Edge wipes his brow.
(Edge)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge says, "my friends."
Rai Yasahiro says, "Adorable.. yet his power feels excessive."
Edge says, "He's really strong."
Maxwell would chuckle. "Well, I guess I haven't then, could I ask where your parents are?"
(Maxwell Di Maria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rai's runes caught Lotlhuitl's eye for a brief moment. The exact meaning she couldn't decipher in the moment, but her gut told her that she would have been irritated at the message anyway. Her tail flicked.

And then her attention snapped back to focus entirely on Caesar. Lotlhuitl's vivid green eyes had taken on an almost mirror-like quality; her pupils dilating to an extraordinary degree. Light reflecting off her eyes as the cogs in her head plainly whirred into action.

There wasn't an easy, convenient answer. She was visibly conflicted. Lotlhuitl considered herself am honest person. She.. valued her identity as a Cruxati tribeswoman. You didn't just turn your back on your tribe. Blood was important. These were deeply held beliefs.

Her fluffy ears still pinned backwards, tail still flicking. There'd been a distinct flicker of shock, of tremendous unease, as Caesar stated that he expected Xoconan to join him.

"Of course Xoconan will," the Nagual muttered. "You're right." If she refused, if she became Caesar's enemy, if Caesar or some other rebel injured her? There was no way that Xoconan would join. And then he would NEVER be free of Kayeliun's influence. Kayeliun, the woman who COLLARED him.. Only the spirits knew what else Kayeliun had done to or with her husband.

Damn it. Caesar's words weren't illogical. In fact, the woman found them compelling. Disturbing. The Nagual reached out, gauntleted hand squeezing Caesar's as she shook his hand.
(Lotlhuitl)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kalandra Vindict asks, "Our parents?"
Strilkin Durgit looks around tracing the voice approaching him concerning Smithing. He nods his head toward the woman, "Hello. My name is Strilkin Durgit. Aye, in the moment, for the task ahead, I require a Master Blacksmith due to the severe condition of my hands the procedures necessary for me to endure. Are you a Blacksmith? Where does your ability stand in relation to your five stages of learning?"

Strilkin Durgit extends a hand to better connect with the young woman. "Please, do tell me your name. Are you from around here? Are you apprenticed or self-taught through books and other means of learning?"
(Strilkin Durgit)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maxwell Di Maria says, "Yes."
Maxwell Di Maria asks, "Or, my bad, are you three alone?"
Atla-Cuauhtli whispers: br server when
Edge asks, "How are you holdin up...?"
Haruhi breathes a huge sigh of relief.

Thank fuck.
(Haruhi Noriega)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Qi Lan asks, "Holding up...?"
Edge says, ".. Guo.."
Maxwell would have his hands in his coat pockets. Waiting for a response.
(Maxwell Di Maria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rai smiles a small smile as Lotl takes Caesar's hand. Whether by his influence or someone else's, this was closer to his own goal than any other choice.
(Rai Yasahiro)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Qi Lan says, "Right... right."
Ranma Kravshera says, "Whew..surprisingly, things are goin' smooth so far."
Qi Lan says, "I'm doing fuc-- Mm..."
Qi Lan says, "I'm doing fine."
Ariana considers the questions that Strilkin asks, and she decides to answer each of them individually. "Yes, I'm a Blacksmith- my shop is over there." She points to the stall- it has a sign outside it saying 'Arianarmoury'.

She then turns back to the Kitsune and answers his second question. "I'd say I've near-mastered it. I'm not from here, I'm from Gehenna, and I've been taught by myself." Lots of questions, but she understands. Ariana quickly moves to shake the man's hand. "I'm Ariana. It's a pleasure to meet you, Strilkin."
(Ariana)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge says, "Mhmm..."
Rin exclaims, "Hi everyone!"
Edge says, "That's good..."
The girl assumes the man is seeking introductions, so she responsibly steps up as their spokesperson.

She points both hands to Mitra as if she were a showgirl showcasing a new item.

"This is Mitra Vindict, my brother!"

And then she nods over in Solace's direction, a step over her twin.

"That's Solace, our good friend."

Then she returns to a neutral position, hands down at her side.

"I'm Kalandra Vindict. Our parents are here, in Ardent."

She looks up at the man with clear eyes.
(Kalandra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maxwell nodded, happy. "It's nice to meet you Mitra, Solace, and Kalandra. I glad to hear you're not alone. I am Maxwell Di Maria, or just call me Max if you like." he introduced himself.
(Maxwell Di Maria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

JaDrako Kumo whispers something.
Qi Lan says, "Yeah, I'm fine."
Rin says, "..."
Rin asks, "Where's Zyanya?"
Nox, fully ready to go out guns blazing against anything that were to disagree, was fully and completely stunned at the woman's sudden shift. The way her ears flicked back, the dilation of her pupils. She realized that Caesar was a charming fellow, sure, but...

This was getting a bit absurd.

"Well, congrats, Caes'. Can't wait to see justice be done fer all the shit that's been left unanswered." She'd say, clasping the man on the shoulder. "You'll have a LOT of shit to get through, but I know you got this."

And then she'd wander off. Probably to go find her family.
(Nox)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The boy sighed, "Well, I'll see you three around then. Stay safe, these are hard times after all." Maxwell said with a nod. He'd then begin to walk away unless stopped by any of them.
(Maxwell Di Maria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rin says, "..."
Haruhi Noriega says, "Hoooooooooooooooooooooooo."
Rin asks, "...Hello?"
Caesar Valerius says, "Haha. Thank you, Nox."
Rin checks herself to see if she's become invisible or something.
(Rin)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Caesar Valerius says, "You too, Lotlhuitl."
Rin says, "No, no, I'm still visible.."
Caesar Valerius asks, "Haruhi, are you with us?"
Rin says, "Hm..."
Rin eyes the stall momentarily.
(Rin)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rin says, "Maybe if I set it on fire..."
Maxwell would make his way away, glancing at Rin and then back to the person he was going to. Roswell. He'd walk up to them and smile. "Hey, I got some ore for you, twelve pieces of copper, I hope it's good enough for use." Maxwell said as he came up to the man with the green Afro.
(Maxwell Di Maria)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Strilkin Durgit smiles at Ariana. "Well, you're a novice to Blacksmithing. If I could show you more of the craft, I might, though I've always been one to find a Blacksmith when in need." Strilkin rubs the back of his afro, "It may not be apparent to you but the Blacksmith is one of the most lacking components in Agarthan society as of now. I don't guarantee the path will be simple though I believe the path may be very fruitful for you. I sense that many Blacksmiths become very stable and work almost for free after a point which is good for anyone seeking their services though a potentially terrible process for a Blacksmith to grow through. A pauper Blacksmith is not healthy for society though convenient especially for societies at war."

Strilkin Durgit fixes himself in his Black Kimono underneath this Cloak before he continues on in a chipper voice, "Well, I'm glad you're a Blacksmith. I must say, you're either the second or third female Blacksmith I've come to meet. It will be quite impressive to observe you mastering your abilities Ariana. Your work may soon catch up to reflect yourself and be just as much of a sight to behold. "
(Strilkin Durgit)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Haruhi Noriega says, "I mean."
Haruhi Noriega asks, "I'm standin' here, ain't I?"
Kalandra Vindict asks, "That was interesting. They're friendly people, aren't they?"
Caesar Valerius says, "Good. Thank you too."
Ranma Kravshera asks, "Aye, in 'dat case, y'wanna run some practice fights when y'got 'da chance Haruhi?"
Caesar Valerius says, "I believe Ardent is safe again."
Caesar Valerius says, "Don't attack Xoconan, unless he tries to attack someone."
Caesar Valerius says, "I want to talk first."
Haruhi Noriega says, "I don't think we should focus on practicing fighting right now. I think we should focus on paving the wave forward right now."
Haruhi Noriega says, "Progress. As smooth as possible..."
Rai Yasahiro whispers: Drink until you drown. I've been waiting for this day.
Ranma Kravshera says, "Eh, fair enough."
Edge says, "I wanna be on a secret fighting team..."
Rin says, "You should join me then! Just look at how few people respond to my greetings."
Rin says, "I'm the best ninja."
Rin nods.
(Rin)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Edge says, "Nah."
Rin says, "Aw, okay."
Solace stares across the way at one of the buildings, a bit of a distressed look still etched along her features.
(Solace Huitzilopochtli)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mitra exhales, his form shrinking and relaxing, tension seeping outwards in release. Eyes remain intently set on the cluster by the square's center.
(Mitra Vindict)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mitra Vindict whispers something.
Kalandra Vindict asks, "What's wrong, Soli?"
Ranma Kravshera asks, "So, whaddya we still standin' around here for? We got any ideas of what to do now?"
Ariana looks a little taken aback. A 'novice'? She squints at Strilkin, seemingly a little bit offended. "...Again, I wouldn't say I'm a novice. I've nearly mastered it, like I said." Everything he said was completely odd to her- the fact that he made a point of her being female, too, weirded her out quite a bit. Now, she understands that she doesn't fall into a stereotype, but nobody had ever mentioned her gender before.

She looks the man up and down, hands going back to being folded neatly over her front. "I'm not hurting for money, if that's what you're saying." Honestly, she had no idea WHAT point he was trying to get across. She thinks for a moment, before adding on "And I know the gear that I make is crude. It works, doesn't it?"
(Ariana)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Solace Huitzilopochtli says, "I... miss my brother."
Mitra Vindict says, "Mmf . ."
Ranma Kravshera says, "Hi Rai."
Rai Yasahiro says, "Greetings, Ranma."
Kalandra Vindict says, "...I miss my brother, too."
Mitra Vindict asks, "What?"
Rai Yasahiro says, "And Lady Haruhi, Lady Lotl."
Kalandra Vindict says, "Biggest bro. Not you."
Mitra Vindict says, "If y'mean Tamman, I'm pretty sure he's around."
Ranma Kravshera says, "Sometimes, I wish I could get as tall as my Dad."
Kalandra Vindict says, "Yeah, but he's so busy. Or maybe he's just hiding..."
Ranma Kravshera asks, "Why was I cursed with these genes?"
Lotlhuitl says, "... Rai."
Rai Yasahiro asks, "Yes, Lotl?"
Ren Yeong asks, "How tall is he?"
Lotlhuitl says, "You said my name."
Haruhi takes a nice moment to breathe. Phew, boy. She most definitely needed it.
(Haruhi Noriega)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lotlhuitl reached for Haruhi's hand.
(Lotlhuitl)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rai Yasahiro says, "Oh. Yes, I was saying hello."
Haruhi aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
(Haruhi Noriega)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lotlhuitl whispers something.
Haruhi decides to get away from all the noise, dragging Lotlhuitl with her. That's always a good idea.
(Haruhi Noriega)