vanguard

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<h3>WHAT ARE YOUR PRONOUNS?</h3> [[She/her|hair][$heshe to "she", $himher to "her", $hisher to "her", $hishers to "hers", $himself to "herself", $HeShe to "She", $HimHer to "Her", $HisHer to "her", $HisHers to "Hers", $HimHerself to "Herself"]] [[He/him|hair][$heshe to "he", $himher to "him", $hisher to "his", $hishers to "his", $himherself to "himself", $HeShe to "He", $HimHer to "Him", $HisHer to "His", $HisHers to "His", $HimHerself to "Himself"]] [[They/them|hair][ $heshe to "they", $himher to "them", $pronouns_plural to true, $hisher to "their", $hishers to "theirs", $himherself to "themself", $HeShe to "They", $HimHer to "Them", $HisHer to "Their", $HisHers to "Theirs", $HimHerself to "Themself"]]

<h2> VANGUARD </h2>

by Jaye

Made in SugarCube 2.36.1.

[[Ephorys]] [[Polaris]] [[Callisto]] <<if $metcirrus is true>>[[Cirrus]] <<else>> You haven't seen Cirrus yet. <</if>> <<if$metkiera is true>>[[Kiera]] <<else>> You haven't seen Kiera yet. <</if>> <<if $metvio is true>> [[Vio]] <<else>> You haven't seen Vio yet. <</if>> <<if $metvera is true>>[[Vera]] <<else>> You have not met Vera. <</if>> <<if $metemilio is true>> [[Emilio Lovell]]<<else>> You have not met Emilio. <<if $metkeyo is true>>[[Keyóna Rayne]] <<else>> You have not met Keyóna. <</if>><</if>> <<if $metnia is true>>[[Nia Lovell]] <<else>> You have not met Nia. <</if>> <<if $metcharles is true>> [[Charles Moreau]] You have not met Charles. <</if>> <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<<script>> var passages = document.getElementById("passages"); passages.scrollTop = 0; <</script>>  <<if tags().includes("title")>> <<elseif tags().includes("credits")>><h1>Credits</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("characters")>> <h1>Characters</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("codex")>> <h1>Codex</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("stats")>> <h1>Stats</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("race")>> <h1>Races</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("profile")>> <h1>Profile</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("country")>> <h1>Countries</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("character-creation")>> <h1>Character Creation</h1> <<elseif tags().includes("cc")>> <h1></h1> <<else>><h1>$chapter</h1> <</if>>

<<set $chapter to "Prologue">> <<if $gender is "woman" >> set $kierar to true <<elseif $gender is "person" >>set $kierar to true <<elseif $gender is "man" >>set $kierar to false <</if>> <<set $metvera to false>> <<set $metemilio to false>> <<set $metnia to false>> <<set $metcirrus to false>> <<set $metvio to false>> <<set $metcharles to false>> <<set $metkiera to false>> <<set $veraf to 10>> <<set $cirrusf to 50>> <<set $emiliof to 0>> <<set $charlesf to 0>> <<set $viof to 70>> <<set $kieraf to 70>> <<set $niaf to 0>> <<set $verar to 0>> <<set $emilior to 0>> <<set $cirrusr to 0>> <<set $charlesr to 0>> <<set $niar to 0>>

<h3> HAIR COLOUR</h3> <<radiobutton "$hairc" "black" checked>> Black <<radiobutton "$hairc" "brown">> Brown <<radiobutton "$hairc" "dark brown">> Dark brown <<radiobutton "$hairc" "red">> Red <<radiobutton "$hairc" "blonde">> Blonde <<radiobutton "$hairc" "white">> White <<radiobutton "$hairc" "blue">> Blue <<radiobutton "$hairc" "pink">> Pink <<radiobutton "$hairc" "grey">> Grey <h3>HAIR LENGTH</h3> <<radiobutton "$hairl" "shoulder-length" checked>> Shoulder-length <<radiobutton "$hairl" "short">> Short <<radiobutton "$hairl" "long">> Long <<radiobutton "$hairl" "waist-length">> Waist-length <<radiobutton "$hairl" "cropped">> Cropped <h3>HAIR TEXTURE</h3> <<radiobutton "$hairt" "coily" checked>> Coily <<radiobutton "$hairt" "curly">> Curly <<radiobutton "$hairt" "braided">> Braids <<radiobutton "$hairt" "wavy">> Wavy <<radiobutton "$hairt" "straight">> Straight <<radiobutton "$hairt" "locked">> Locs <h3>EYE COLOUR</h3> <<radiobutton "$eye" "black" checked>> Black <<radiobutton "$eye" "brown">> Brown <<radiobutton "$eye" "dark brown">> Dark brown <<radiobutton "$eye" "green">> Green <<radiobutton "$eye" "blue">> Blue <<radiobutton "$eye" "grey">> Grey <<radiobutton "$eye" "purple">> Purple <<radiobutton "$eye" "orange">> Orange <<radiobutton "$eye" "red">> Red <<radiobutton "$eye" "yellow">> Yellow <<radiobutton "$eye" "opal">> Opal <<radiobutton "$eye" "pink">> Pink [[Continue|height]]

Chapel's Notify Macro <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

will you mould the future?

<style> #ui-bar {display:none;} #passages {width:100vw;margin:0;background-image:var(--banner-top),var(--banner-bottom);background-repeat:no-repeat;background-size:50%;background-position:top center, bottom center;overflow:hidden;scrollbar-width:none;font-family:var(--header-font);transition:0s;padding:0;} ::-webkit-scrollbar {width:0px;} .passage {text-align:center;transition:0s;} #passages a:before {content: none;} #story {margin-left:0;} h1 {text-align:center;margin-top:36vh;} @media screen and (max-width: 800px) {#story {margin:0;}} </style> <h1> </h1> <h2> <<if Save.autosave.ok() and Save.autosave.has()>><<link "Resume Game">><<script>>Save.autosave.load()<</script>><</link>> | <</if>><<link "New Game" "cc">><</link>> | <<link "Load Game">><<run UI.saves()>><</link>> | <<link "Settings">><<run UI.settings()>><</link>></h2>

An ancient race of dragon people, occupying the territories of the Midlands. As still as the trees of the land they call home. Never moving, ever living, and //stubborn//. Faerings are a neutral race. They have no enemies, nor allies. But, this way of living may have to be altered in the near future. Features of this race include a human form, and a dragon form. In human form, faerings express two of three traits; horns, tail, or wings, along with a figure that stands a foot taller than a human's. They have sharp teeth, and sometimes forked tongues, depending on the subspecies. FAERINGS OF NOTE: Cirrus, Kiera, Vio, Ephorys, Polaris, Callisto...and you! <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>VERA (she/her, 24) - //THE BOUNTY HUNTER//</h2> The young woman you encountered on your way to the North, just about managing to save her from blood loss. You sense that there's much more to her character than just a "mere bounty hunter". Her words, not yours. Her charismatic smile and sarcasm is hard not to appreciate. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

The most common species in the five lands. Innovative. Power hungry. Kind. Narcissistic. All of these things, at once, within a single human. HUMANS OF NOTE: Emilio Lovell, Nia Lovell, Vera, Keyóna Rayne <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

A species with a rich knowledge of the land, its peoples, and their culture. However, as tension builds between the five lands, elves have grown more diverse in their culture. From their roots of fine arts, they have stemmed into a race of architects, farmers, craftsmen, and graceful soldiers. They still possess an innate knowledge of magic. ELVES OF NOTE: Charles Moreau <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

A land on which the extremely rich, and very poor, live together. The Upper North is regarded as the 'richer' portion, whereas the Lower North is the 'poorer' portion. The monarchy consists of King and Queen Lovell, and their two adopted children, Emilio and Nia Lovell. Winters are extremely harsh, and summers are mild. The King and Queen separated themselves from their children once they were sixteen to go live in their own castle, deep in the North. Reasons are unknown for their decision, although there are rumours that there are disparities between the King and Queen and their children that simply cannot be ignored; possibly because Emilio and Nia were adopted from the Lower North. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

Once owned and taken care of by the Eastern peoples, the land has turned to a place of crime in a startlingly quick time. The Eastern peoples, the people Indigenous to the land, still have ownership over certain parts of the land (usually, the most peaceful parts) but the rest? Anarchy in its worst form. The monarchy has not been active since crime has overtaken the lands, about five years ago. Keyóna Rayne, the son of the King and Queen, has been pushing himself past his limits to put order back into the East. But as far as civilians are concerned, the monarchy had abandoned them. And that's that. His efforts are futile, and his name forgotten by most. The East is known for its rich nature, humid climate, and home to the most wildlife in the Five Lands. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

A well-respected, well educated land. Home of the Western Academia, where the most intelligent are invited to research magic, alchemy, and sorcery. The West's monarchy consists of the King and Queen, and their two children, Prince Quentin, and Princess Lianne. The West is notorious for rainy springs, which can interrupt the magicians testing out new spells at the Academia. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

An honest, humble land. The South, along with the King, Queen, and their son Taylin, just might be the only country that has managed to stay out of political trifles for most of its existence. The Southern people are a community of traders and artisans, and have built a reputation for fine wares and fabrics among the Five Nations. Although summers are blistering hot, Southerners have found peace in their land. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

A territory residing in the centre of the four outermost countries, home to faerings and //only// faerings. A luscious land, with vibrant greenery, masterful architecture, and outcrops of sacred land. Faerings have cared for the land as long as their species has lived, which is of course, as old as some of the mountains themselves. The monarchy is divided into four subsections, with one ruler assigned to one associate outer country. This is to have full supervision over the outside world without expending the energy of only a single faering. Each monarch was blessed by the gods, and hold a great deal of power in their hands. Demi-gods, in a way. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<<if $metvera is true>> VERA Friendship <progress @value="$veraf" max="100"></progress> Romance <progress @value="$verrar" max="100"></progress><<else>> You have not met Vera.<</if>> <<if $metcirrus is true>>CIRRUS Friendship <progress @value="$cirrusf" max="100"></progress> Romance <progress @value="$cirrusr" max="100"></progress><<else>> You haven't seen Cirrus around.<</if>> <<if $metvio is true>>VIO Friendship <progress @value="$viof" max="100"></progress><<else>> You haven't seen Vio around.<</if>> <<if $metkiera is true>>KIERA Friendship <progress @value="$kieraf" max="100"></progress> <<else>> You haven't seen Kiera around.<</if>> <<if $metcharles is true>>CHARLES MOREAU Friendship <progress @value="$charlesf" max="100"></progress> Romance <progress @value="$charlesr" max="100"></progress><<else>> You have not met Charles.<</if>> <<if $metnia is true>>NIA LOVELL Friendship <progress @value="$niaf" max="100"></progress> Romance <progress @value="$niar" max="100"></progress><<else>> You have not met Nia.<</if>> <<if $metemilio is true>>EMILIO LOVELL Friendship <progress @value="$emiliof" max="100"></progress> Romance <progress @value="$cirrusr" max="100"></progress><<else>> You have not met Emilio.<</if>> <<if $metkeyo is true>>KEYÓNA RAYNE Friendship <progress @value="$keyor" max="100"></progress> Romance <progress @value="$keyof" max="100"></progress><<else>> You have not met Keyóna.<</if>> <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>CIRRUS (they/he, mentally ~32) - THE RULER</h2> Your noble, gentle ruler. Cirrus would rather you regard them as a peer than a ruler. Your relationship with them is different than that of your fellow vanguards, though it's hard to describe. Frankly, you're awe-struck by them. Even on your gloomiest of days, Cirrus can always determine your needs without you saying so. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>KIERA (she/her, mentally ~31) - THE FIRST VANGUARD</h2> Stoic, but kind. Out of the three vanguards, Kiera is your senior, and a mentor of sort. She cares for you through actions, not words. You enjoy quiet walks with her along the shoreline. She's beautiful, but terrifying at times. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>VIO (he/him, mentally ~30) - //THE THIRD VANGUARD//</h2> The youngest of the three vanguards. Talkative, warm, and fearless. Maybe slightly dumb at times. You can't help but smile at his kindness, and at the way he's determined to protect you. Single dad of his daughter, Maya. How could you ever be mad at him? <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>EMILIO LOVELL (he/him, 24) - THE PRINCE</h2> The twin brother of Nia. Tends to keep to himself for the most part, his nose almost always buried in a book. His supposedly flippant personality is largely due to the fact that he does not understand social cues. Key word, largely. He can be insufferable when he intends to be, but most people tend to let it slide because of his gorgeous face. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>NIA LOVELL (she/her, 24) - THE PRINCESS</h2> The twin of Emilio, older by a few minutes. Her bubbly attitude starkly opposes her prickly brother's, but their gentle brown eyes remain identical. Friendly, extroverted, and really puts the "love" in Lovell. Favourite pastime is sword fighting in her favourite yellow dress, and dressing up Charles and Emilio like they're her dolls. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2> CHARLES MOREAU (he/him, 26) - THE DOCTOR </h2> The talented young doctor who resuscitated Vera. His alchemical and magical prowess is unlike anything you've ever seen before; although, you suppose that could do with his elvish heritage. Possibly has the most gorgeous green eyes you've ever seen. Tall, blonde, and kind of gay. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<<link "Characters" "Characters">><</link>> <<link "Stats" "Stats">><</link>> <<link "Codex" "Codex">><</link>> <<link "Credits" "Credits">><</link>> <<link "Profile" "Profile">><</link>>

<h3>HEIGHT</h3> (note: faerings are //extremely// tall. A very short faering is equivelent to a human who is under 4'10. As a rule of thumb, you can add a foot onto your own height if you want an accurate self-insert faering. Anyways, it's up to you!) <<radiobutton "$height" "very short" checked>> Very short (5'9 and under) <<radiobutton "$height" "short">> Short (6'3 and under) <<radiobutton "$height" "average">> Average (6'4-6'8) <<radiobutton "$height" "tall">> Tall (6'9-7'3) <<radiobutton "$height" "very tall">> Very tall (7'4 and over) <h3>SKIN COLOUR (HUMAN)</h3> <<radiobutton "$skinh" "warm black" checked>> Warm black <<radiobutton "$skinh" "cool black">> Cool black <<radiobutton "$skinh" "medium black">> Medium black <<radiobutton "$skinh" "cool beige">> Light brown <<radiobutton "$skinh" "warm brown">> Warm brown <<radiobutton "$skinh" "cool brown">> Cool brown <<radiobutton "$skinh" "medium brown">> Medium brown <<radiobutton "$skinh" "tawny">> Tawny <<radiobutton "$skinh" "warm beige ">> Warm beige <<radiobutton "$skinh" "cool beige">> Cool beige <<radiobutton "$skinh" "medium beige">> Pale [[Continue|dragon]]

<h3>YOU ARE...</h3> <<radiobutton "$person" "woman" checked>> a woman. <<radiobutton "$person" "man">> a man. <<radiobutton "$person" "person">> nonbinary. [[Continue|pronouns]]

<h3>CHARACTER CUSTOMIZATION</h3> Customize a playable faering character. [[Continue|gender]]

<h3>HORN COLOUR</h3> <<radiobutton "$horn" "black" checked>> Black <<radiobutton "$horn" "white">> White <<radiobutton "$horn" "dark blue">> Dark blue <<radiobutton "$horn" "light blue">> Light blue <<radiobutton "$horn" "pink">> Pink <<radiobutton "$horn" "red">> Red <<radiobutton "$horn" "brown">> Brown <<radiobutton "$horn" "purple">> Purple <h3>WING COLOUR</h3> <<radiobutton "$wing" "black" checked>> Black <<radiobutton "$wing" "white">> White <<radiobutton "$wing" "dark blue">> Dark blue <<radiobutton "$wing" "light blue">> Light blue <<radiobutton "$wing" "pink">> Pink <<radiobutton "$wing" "red">> Red <<radiobutton "$wing" "brown">> Brown <<radiobutton "$wing" "purple">> Purple [[Continue|name]]

Cirrus' wing of the Royal Castle leaves you awestruck every time you visit them...which again, is at least ten times a day. The pearlescent hallway shone elegantly with the conjured magical lighting, creating a celestial aura. Pastel coloured flower baskets hung from either side of the hall, the light reflecting off the pale purples, blues, and pinks of the delicate flowers. It was awfully empty in his hallway for it being close to noon. No servants. No one. Don't the plants have to be watered? Doesn't Cirrus want someone to judge his outfit choice for the day? Surely he wasn't sleeping. //Surely,// as it was Vio's job to oversleep, not theirs. The massive double arched doors of Cirrus' chambers encroached upon you, and <<if $height is "average">>though you were of average height, they still dwarfed you in comparison.<<elseif $height is "short">>since you were short, they dwarfed you in comparison.<<elseif $height is "very short">>since you were short, they completely dwarfed you in comparison. <<elseif $height is "very tall">>although you were much taller than most, they still loomed over the top of your head. You would not be able to touch the arch, even if you were double your impressive height.<<elseif $height is "tall">>although you were taller than most, they still loomed over the top of your head. You would not be able to touch the arch, even if you were almost triple your height.<</if>> You rapped your nails against Cirrus' opalescent doors, patiently waiting for an answer. You hoped they didn't hear the slight shaking as your fingernails clacked against the wood. Not only would this conversation dictate your future as a vanguard, but depending on what you say, your relationship with Cirrus may also evolve. For the better, or worse. [[Continue|3][$metcirrus to true]]

"Please, come in," came a familiar voice, slightly muted from the other side of the doorway. "I know it's you, $name." Cirrus laughed, the hearty sound vibrating deep within their throat. As soon as the door was set ajar, you folded yourself into a deep bow. "My liege. Good morning." The hinge creaked as he pushed the door open at its full angle. "Please, $name, I've told you there's no need for the formalities. Stand." Cirrus' sky blue eyes meet yours as you rose, the corners of their cheeks creasing at the sight of you. A warmth rose in your chest at the familiar flash of white fangs. Then, one of your eyebrows raised at the sight of Cirrus, still happily clad in their night clothes: a simple white robe, tied at the waist. Messy curls of white hair fell to their slender waist, strands bending every which way. He hasn't fixed his hair yet, or braided the two iconic pieces falling in front of his ears. Of course, he looked absolutely //gorgeous// despite it all. You swear to god that Cirrus could wake up from an earth-shattering hangover and still look like he could host an audience fit for a king. Bathrobe and all. They seemed to be confused at //your// confusion. "Respectfully, Cirrus, it's almost noon," you interjected, voice falling flat. "You haven't even made your bed yet!" "Oh...I'm aware," they said woefully, stepping aside to usher you in. They shot a self conscious stare at the heap of fluffy blankets piled high onto their mattress. You raised an eyebrow at them. "Cirrus," you started, folding your arms over your chest, "what time did you wake up this morning?" Cirrus averted their eyes, clasping their hands behind their back and rocking on their heels. You frowned as the silence stretched on for what felt like hours. "Um...ten minutes ago?" he replied, voice rising in pitch. He shot you a nervous grin. The type of grin that begged for mercy. A 'please, $name, please don't burn me at the stake' kind of smile. [[♡ You weren't mad. In fact, you found him sort of...cute? |4][$cirrusr to Math.clamp($cirrusr + 15, 0, 100)]] [[...How could you be mad at that face? He's your ruler, and most of all, your friend. |4][$cirrusf to Math.clamp($cirrusf + 15, 0, 100)]] <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET CIRRUS!<</notify>>

"Cirrus, there was something I wanted to talk about." They sat at the edge of their king sized bed, crossing one long leg over the other. "Must you be so serious with me all the time?" they asked teasingly, but upon noticing your weary face, they averted their gaze to the decorated rug under their feet. "...You look exhausted, $name. Is whatever you're going to tell me really that important?" They quickly rose to their feet, marching over to your position at the door. <<if ($cirrusr >= 15)>> Before you realized it, one warm hand was cupping your chin. They turned your chin side to side, inspecting your weathered features. "Oh, no no...these dark circles, bloodshot eyes..." he murmured sadly, rubbing your cheek lightly with a thumb. Your face burns as Cirrus smiles gently at you, releasing his hold on your face. <<elseif ($cirrusf > $cirrusr)>> He cocked his head to one side, inspecting your weathered features. "Dark circles, bloodshot eyes..." They clicked their tongue, shaking their head fondly.<</if>>"Oh, this won't do! $name, please tell me what's on your mind." [[You exhaled, your heart rate increasing. "All right. But before I start, you must promise me to stay calm."|5]]

"When you tell me that, I'll have a hard time staying calm." "Try, please, my liege." <<if ($cirrusr >= 15)>> "Well...when it's you telling me what to do, I have a hard time saying no." They gave a pointy-toothed smile, and although their white eyebrows were still upturned, you couldn't help but grin back at them. "Just um- please, $name. Go on." <<elseif ($cirrusf >$cirrusr)>> They nodded, their white eyebrows upturning. "Alright, $name. Please go on." <</if>> You took a deep breath, filling your lungs with so much air your throat stung. //Come on, $name. One sentence. It's just one sentence.// "I want to go to the North," you blurted, before you could overthink and regret your decision. "Cirrus, I have no purpose as a Royal Vanguard if I'm not scouting out potential dangers for you. I have no purpose to remain here at the castle." The words were tumbling off the tip of your tongue now, and with every sentence, Cirrus' sky blue eyes grew wider and wider. "There's rumours involving you and the Northern prince, and I can't just sit here looking pretty when I could be investigating." Cirrus' jaw hung slightly open as you finished, trying to catch your breath. You could see the gears turning in Cirrus' head as they tried to think of the best answer, and you bounced your leg anxiously. Whatever synapses were sparking in Cirrus' tired brain could be seen through those two tired, empty eyes. A window straight into his head. The //pat pat pat// of your foot against the rug was the only noise in the room. You perked up as Cirrus took a breath to answer, then promptly shut their mouth. "Cirrus?" "I- I know. I'm thinking." [[Continue|6]]

"I know what you want me to say, $name. I know of the rumours. The ones where I have been allegedly sending death threats to Prince Emilio." He giggled at that, then continued after a thoughtful pause. "I know it would benefit me, sending you off to the North." They were apprehensive, but they were telling the truth. They always did. "I...I was planning on going to see for myself in a week or so." "Is that so?" "Mhmm." Cirrus stood, pushing velvet curtains aside to let the sunlight pour into the bedroom. The afternoon rays of sun glowed against Cirrus' brown skin, the patches of white skin around his eyes stark against the rest of his body. You joined them at the window. It seems like Cirrus was on board with your idea; a miracle, really. They weren't overly fond of the situation, but since they understood your need, it saved a whole lot of breath. What you haven't told them is that you're leaving tonight, not in a week's time with them. [[♡ Be transparent with them, and also reassure them.|6a][$cirrusr to Math.clamp ($cirrusr +8, 0, 100)]] [[Be transparent with them, and also reassure them.|6b][$cirrusf to Math.clamp ($cirrusf +15, 0, 100)]] [[Be transparent with them.|6c][$cirrusf to Math.clamp ($cirrusf +10, 0, 100)]] [[Don't tell them.|6d][$cirrusf to Math.clamp ($cirrusf -20, 0, 100)]]

You shifted closer to Cirrus. "Cirrus, I'm leaving tonight. I promise, I'll be alright. I just...wanted to tell you. I won't be changing my mind." He smiled, turning his chin to look at you. Your heart sank as you found a soft smile across their cheeks. No malice. No hate. "Thank you for telling me. When you get all serious like that, I //know// I won't be able to change your mind. $name..." Cirrus stepped forward, wrapping his arms around you. <<if $height is "average">> Your face was stuffed in his chest, as he towered over you. You might be suffocating, but you were more than happy to accept his affection. <<elseif $height is "short">> Your face was stuffed in his chest, as he completely towered over you. You might be suffocating, but you were more than happy to accept his affection. <<elseif $height is "very short">>Your face was stuffed in his chest, as he completely towered over you. You might be suffocating, but you were more than happy to accept his affection. <<elseif $height is "very tall">>Your head rested against his as he squished you against his body. You struggled to breathe, but you were more than happy to accept his affection. <<elseif $height is "tall">>Your head rested against his shoulder as he squished you against his body. You struggled to breathe, but you were more than happy to accept his affection.<</if>> He let go, then took ahold of your shoulders. Resolute eyes met yours, and he squeezed gently. "$name, I know you. I know you want to see immediate change. But you cannot do anything risky, or do anything to sour Prince Emilio's opinion on us. Do you understand?" "I understand, my liege." "Cirrus," he corrected, letting go of you. "Now, why don't you go find Vio and Kiera for me?" "What, are you going to tell them my master plan?" you asked, grinning. They answered with a short puff of air, their eyes creasing. "You should leave, before I change my mind about letting you go. And to answer your question, no, I won't. That's for you to do, my friend." You nodded. "Thank you, Cirrus. I'll see you in a week's time at the Northern Estate, eh?" Cirrus shuffles over to their extensive closet, their robe flourishing behind their figure. "Hmm. Yes. I suppose I will, $name. Please do not get lost." "I most definitely will, my liege. Just for you, I'll make sure and fall into the deepest possible hole in the ground." You give them a toothy grin. "Bye, Cirrus. I promise I will be okay." [[Continue|7a]]

You shifted closer to Cirrus, your shoulder brushing against the side of their body. They were warm. Invitingly so. "Cirrus, I'm leaving tonight. I promise, I'll be alright. I just...wanted to tell you. This won't change. I'll tell Vio and Kiera too, but, you know...I wanted to tell you first." He smiled, turning his chin to look at you. Your heart sank as you found a soft smile across their cheeks. No malice. No hate. "Mmm? I'm your first priority?" they asked, the corner of their lips pulling against their rosy cheeks. " 'Course you are..." you murmured, watching his growing smile crease the corners of his eyes. "Thank you for telling me. When you get all serious like that, I know I won't be able to change your mind. You're much too stubborn for that. Oh, $name..." Cirrus stepped forward, wrapping his arms around you. <<if $height is "average">> Your face was stuffed in his chest, as he towered over you. You might be suffocating, but you don't think you've ever been happier in your life.<<elseif $height is "short">>Your face was stuffed in his chest, as he completely towered over you. You might be suffocating, but you don't think you've ever been happier in your life.<<elseif $height is "very short">>Your face was stuffed in his chest, as he completely towered over you. You might be suffocating, but you don't think you've ever been happier in your life. <<elseif $height is "very tall">>Your head rested against his as he squished you against his body. You struggled to breathe, but you've never been happier. <<elseif $height is "tall">>Your head rested against his shoulder as he squished you against his body. You struggled to breathe, but you've never been happier.<</if>> He let go, hands taking ahold of yours. Adoring eyes met yours, and he squeezed your fingers gently. "$name, I know you. I know you want change. But you cannot do anything risky, or anything to sour Prince Emilio's opinion on us. Please be mindful." "I understand, my liege." "Goodness. Enough of those titles, darling. //Cirrus//," they corrected, letting go of you. "Now, why don't you go find Vio and Kiera for me?" The pet name dazed you for a few seconds. You cleared your throat as Cirrus patiently awaited an answer, their long white lashes fluttering as their gaze wandered the features of your face. Your face burned as his eyes wandered. Starting with your eyes, nose, and lips. Then grazing your body, lightly, swiftly. And then finally residing in your $eye eyes once more. "Thank you, Cirrus. I...I'll be looking forward to seeing you. I'll be good, I promise." He laughed, the sound melodic, like a smooth woodwind in the alto register. It was a beautiful sound. "Yes, I know you will." He tucked a strand of your $hairc hair behind your pointy ear. There was a breath of silence, then he exhaled, pulling his lingering hand away from your face. "You...you should go, before I decide to change my mind and keep you here forever." Their voice had a tinge of woefulness. Maybe a tad whiny. "Get Vio and Kiera in here for me, would you? I need to let them know of my leave." You nod, as Cirrus shuffles over to their extensive closet. "Bye, Cirrus." ... Even their name sounds pretty on your tongue. [[Continue|7a]]

You make your way over to Cirrus, taking a deep breath. "My liege, I'm leaving tonight," you started carefully. I promise, I'll be alright. I just...wanted to tell you. I won't be changing my mind." He smiled, turning his chin to look at you. Your heart sank as you found a soft smile across their cheeks. No malice. No hate. "Thank you for telling me. When you get all serious like that, I //know// I won't be able to change your mind. $name..." He stepped forward, resting a hand atop your shoulder. Resolute eyes met yours, and he squeezed gently. "$name, I know you. I know you want to see immediate change. But you cannot do anything risky, or do anything to sour Prince Emilio's opinion on us. Promise me this." "I understand, my liege." "Good," he said, smiling. "Now, why don't you go find Vio and Kiera for me?" You nodded. "Thank you, Cirrus. I'll see you in a week's time at the Northern Estate, eh?" "I'd better." [[Continue|7a]]

<<set $betrayc to true>>Cirrus eyed you, squinting. Their blue eyes analyzed you, shifting from feature to feature on your face. "...Is that all?" they asked, raising an eyebrow. You nodded slowly, attempting to keep your face perfectly neutral, as any good faering would. "Yes, my liege. "Alright. Then, could you call in Vio and Kiera for me? Separately, please." "Yes, my liege." There was another pause. Cirrus' face was terrifyingly calm. Neutral. Everything a faering should be. "$name, before you leave. Remember I will be making a trip to the North, by myself. In about a week's time." It was hard to swallow. Your throat hurt. Your heart raced. You truly hoped they didn't notice as you noded politely. "That's a big trip, my liege," you say, attempting to stabilize the shaking of your voice. "Do be careful." A dry chuckle. "Yes. I will be quite fine, I think. Also, could you grab Vio and Kiera for me? In that order." A pause. Cirrus' eyebrows furrowed for a split second, as if in pain, or deep thought. Or both. "You may go now, $name. You are dismissed." Although you knew they were attempting to keep their voice impartial, light, gentle as usual, a shiver ran down your spine as you felt the sharpness of their tongue, like a pinprick, pierce your eyes. Cirrus traced your figure as you turned on your heel to exit, but did not voice anything more. With a slight, jerky bow of the head, you exited his room without another word exhanged. You tried not to think of the situation you've dug yourself into. This is bad. This is //really// bad. [[Continue|7b]]

You padded your way through the grand hallways once more, politely acknowledging castle guards and servants as you passed by. You know that Vio would most likely still be sleeping (he claims he's nocturnal, but you know he's lying; he just sleeps too much), and that Kiera would be somewhere quiet. Around this time of day, she enjoys strolls in the castle garden. You decide... [[...to go to Vio's chambers and wake the bastard up from his beauty sleep.|8a]] [[...to see if Kiera is in the courtyard.|8b]]

<h2>KEYÓNA RAYNE (he/him, 25)</h2> The energetic prince of the East, childhood friends with Vera. Only Simone can romance him, everyone else BACK OFF!!!!!! <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<<set $metvio to true>> With a determined pep in your step, you march your way over to Vio's bedchambers. You find yourself at the imposing doors, with a sloppy handwritten sign that says <b> VIO IS BUSY, COME BACK LATER!</b> ...which is code for "Vio is still sleeping, do not disturb." You know from the barely legible handwriting that that sign was all his hard work, no one else's. With three pointed knocks on the reddish oak doors, you waited for an answer. Foolish, because your happy-go-lucky co-worker only wakes up on his own volition when the world has ended thrice over. That, or if his kid needs feeding. How he manages to sleep in so late as a single dad is beyond you, but he does it. You know that if there's one thing in the world he's good at, it's caring for his absolutely adorable daughter, Maya, whose baby babbling was evident from the other side of the door. "Vio! Open the door!" Another three knocks, this time within a shorter interval, and with more force. Your knuckles were tinged red, your patience running thin. Faint groggy grumbles came through the door, along with a distinct //thump// and a long bedraggled '//owwww//'. The latch on the door clicked after a minute, and a half-lidded Vio, looking like he's still a quarter immersed in a dream, stood in front of you, with Maya squirming in an arm. With his shoulders slouched, back curved at an angle that resembled a shrimp, and bed creases all over his muscular arms, you knew that you were in for an earful. The dark creases meddled with the many scars along his forearms, trailing up his biceps. How many other scars laid under his clothing was something you wondered, but //definitely// none of your business and //very// inappropriate. He adjusted Maya's positioning in his arms, and she giggled. She found peace in chewing on a strand of his coily hair. "Oh! Hi, $name. Geez, I thought you were Cirrus and I almost had a heart attack, because like, you know, it's almost noon." He yawned, baring his pointed teeth. "Well that's actually funny because-" "Nope!" he exclaimed, holding a hand out to you and turning his face to the side. "Stop talking, right now. I haven't even peed for the morning and you're trying to tell me work things. $name. You are just pure malice." You didn't answer, only inhaling deeply as he ushered you through the door. "Oh, god," he groaned. "Look, is the baby allowed to stay for this conversation?" You shrugged. "Up to you. I think she'd be a lot calmer than her dad, don't you think, My-My?" you cooed, offering her a finger. She grabbed it with the force of a fucking python strangling its prey, bouncing up and down happily in Vio's arms at the exchange. She is so cute. "C'mon, My-My. Let's get you occupied for a bit," Vio said, leaving the room momentarily to put her in her playroom. <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET VIO!<</notify>> [[Continue|8a1]]

<<set $metkiera to true>> You slinked your way to the castle's expansive courtyard, the soothing trickles of water and cool summer breeze gently brushing your $hairl $hairt hair. At first glance, you could not find Kiera. Other faerings were milling about, children splashing in the fountain with exasperated parents trailing after them, friends lazing atop rocks and the wooden edges of flower beds. But Kiera? Nowhere to be found. Your friendly "good afternoons" and "have a great days" to the other visitors were half hearted, and you dearly hoped they did not notice the flippancy in your tone. Cautiously, you made your way to a secluded area of the courtyard, running your fingers along the stone wall leading to a small nook. You peered in, your eyes glancing side to side, but found zero traces of anyone. Sighing, you turned on your heel to leave. "Hi, $name." You almost shit yourself upon hearing the voice, then your body relaxed as your mind finally registered the voice as familiar. Looking <<if $height is "average">> slightly upwards, <<elseif $height is "short">> up, <<elseif $height is "very short">>up, craning your neck to do so, <<elseif $height is "very tall">>down, <<elseif $height is "tall">>slightly downwards, <</if>>you met Kiera's unmoving pale purple eyes. Her pupils were slitted, indicating her nocturnal nature. You've learned to relax under her steely gaze, because she never means to scare you. She always reminds you. <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET KIERA!<</notify>> [[Continue|8b1]]

After he returned, Vio eyed you suspiciously, deep blue eyes following your figure as you plopped yourself comfortably on his messy bed. "Ahhh...I see how it is," he said, planting his hands on his hips. "You wake me from the sweetest sleep I've ever had, threaten me with Cirrus' name, //and// take over my bed. You really are evil, you know that, right?" "Stop being dramatic, Vio. I'm just the delivery <<if $person is "man" >>boy<<elseif $person is "woman" >>girl<<elseif $person is "person" >>kid<</if>> for Cirrus." He scoffed. "Yeah, right, $name. No. You're just an asshole, I think." "Maybe if you got out of your night clothes then I'd feel slightly more offended." Vio straightened himself to his full height, and next to you, he was <<if $height is "average">>quite a bit taller than you.<<elseif $height is "short">> //huge//.<<elseif $height is "very short">>//completely// towering over you. Like, Cirrus levels of towering over you. <<elseif $height is "very tall">>around the same height.<<elseif $height is "tall">> taller.<</if>> Along with his muscular stature that suggested facts along the lines of //wow, this guy could probably skip me like a flat pebble on a smooth surface of water//, he was intimidating upon first sight. Well, if he had the balls to do something like that, because you knew he did not. His dimpled smiles, freckled cheeks, and outrageously loud laughs were not a characteristic of a villain. Villain and Vio would never end up in a sentence, except for well, this one. "$name, you wound me," he gasped, with a false outrage. "Wound, I say! My pyjamas are quite comfortable, please and thank you." He crossed his arms over his chest, squinting and pouting his full lips in disgust. Then, his face relaxed when you gave him a gentle smile. "Hey, what's really goin' on, $name?" "Do you have the brain material to listen? White matter all ready to go? Fully awake now?" "Um, yeah. C'mon now, chop chop." [[Continue|8a2]]

You smile at her. "Hey, Kiera. I was looking for you, you know, but you're kind of impossible to find sometimes." She raised a pale eyebrow, blinking. "Maybe you just don't know where to look." "How cold!" With a lighthearted scoff, you plunked yourself down on the bench, Kiera following shortly after. With a small smile, she crossed her long legs over one another. "Oh. Why were you looking for me, $name? Is something wrong?" "I'm leaving to go to the North," you blurt out, Kiera's eyes widening. [[Continue|8b2]]

"There's two things," you start. "Wanna start with the boring one, or the one that you might want to kill me over?" "$name what the //fuck// does that mean?" "Answer me." Vio grimaced, pinching the bridge of his nose. "You're being serious," he murmured, dark eyes meeting yours. "Start with the not boring one." "I'm leaving," you say abruptly, making Vio almost choke on his own saliva. His brows creased, blue eyes widening with distraught. "//What//?" he exclaimed, his voice cracking. "And where the hell might you be off to?" "The North. Because, you know, Cirrus' name has been dragged through the dirt a lot over there. You know the rumours. Put two n' two together, you know, you're a smart guy." Vio grimaced, his thick eyebrows knotting. "...By yourself, $name?" he asked, tone wavering. Your face softened upon seeing his troubled expression. You nodded. "By myself. Tonight." "Tonight. And Cirrus knows about this," he said, more of a statement than a question. He rubbed at his face with his fingers and exhaled deeply. "Alright. //Whew//, yeah, that's fine. God. You better know what you're doing." You pushed your bottom lip out and shrugged. "...You know I have not a single clue." "I can't believe Cirrus let you do this." "Yeah. Me neither." Vio gives you a bedraggled groan, rubbing his eyes with the inside of his thumb. "Man, fuck you, $name. You're always up to something, aren't ya? Be safe, okay?" "Oh! Also," you chimed, and a look of horror comes across Vio's face. "No, no. Nothing bad. Cirrus just wants to see you. Kiera's there waiting for you." Another groan from Vio. His eyes scan the room wildly for appropriate Cirrus meeting clothing. "Gods. Fine. Go away, then!" A pause as he picks up a pair of trousers from his bedroom floor. "Don't get yourself in trouble tonight. $name, promise me." "I promise, Vio." His lips quirk up into a smile, in which he attempts to, and fails, to cover. "Right. Take care of yourself, 'kay?" And with that, you left him to get ready. [[Continue|8a3]]

Now it's time to find Kiera. [[Continue|8brep]]

"Respectfully, $name...what?" "Yeah, I know. I've gotten an earful from his liege already. They agreed though, which is extremely surprising. Hesitantly, but still." Kiera pinched the bridge of her aquiline nose, inhaling deeply. "Okay," she finally said, absorbing what you told her. "Yes, alright, I suppose this is slightly acceptable." She eyed you from the side, raising a white eyebrow. "And I suppose you will not be leaving with Cirrus in the coming week? You shook your head. "Is it so strange of me to want to be able to actually...do my job?" She snorted at that, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. "Well, no, but I truly hope you understand why he's apprehensive. You're old enough, $name." "Don't antagonize me," you said dramatically, earning a short laugh from Kiera. "I know. Dragon hunters. Humans trying to //grab my horns// without asking; I've heard horror stories. But Kiera..." "Yes, yes. I know our wonderful Cirrus personally attacking the prince of the North is absolutely hilarious. Intriguing that such a rumour exists. But you have to be careful. Northerners are ruthless, $name. Something is terribly wrong there, but I cannot place my finger on it." You swallowed. That's...//really// cryptic. "You uh... mind elaborating, Kiera?" She shakes her head, eyebrows creased in thought. "All I want you to be is careful, $name. Very careful. I have my suspicions. Surely you've heard of the tragedy of Ephorys?" Ephorys. Of course you've heard of Ephorys, one of your rulers that work alongside Cirrus. Thing is...they //aren't// working alongside anyone. And this is a horrific problem. Nobody has seen them for almost an entire century. And their presence was a welcome one; from when you had a meeting with all the rulers, they had an alluring confidence that always brought the room to silence when they spoke. They always donned a sparkling silver ring, crusted with the North's finest diamonds atop it. If asked, they were always willing to prattle about the luxury of the ring, how it was made, the craftsmanship..you get the idea. Faerings live long, and Ephorys has a lifespan that extends past the average faering, but that is still a long time to be absent. One hundred years, the West has not had a faering protector. You grimace. "Yes, of course. Do they have something to do with this?" Your tone was just as confused as you were. "No...no, they don't. Nothing with Prince Emilio. But perhaps you can look into their disappearance, too. They were awfully fond of the North's jewelry." You stand up, and Kiera follows shortly. "Yeah, I remember that pretty ring they had. Jeez, you've been brimming with ideas, haven't you Kiera?" She grins, her pupils dilating. "Oh, haven't I? Anyways, $name. Do be careful. Keep a watchful eye. Do //not// let any humans touch your horns." You almost physically recoil at that, and self consciously touch your $horn horns with your fingertips. "Oh, god. I'll be okay once they don't do //that//. Promise I'll be safe, okay?" You stand up, Kiera following suit. "Also, Cirrus wants to see you. And Vio." She nods silently. "Oh, Cirrus. Gods, and Vio too?" she mumbles, straightening out her skirt. Her purple eyes soften. "I'll be off, then," is all she says, as she turns on her heel to leave. Her pin straight white hair gently blows in the wind as she walks. <<notify>>REVIEW CHARACTER ENTRY: EPHORYS<</notify>> [[Continue|8b3]]

Time to find that bastard Vio, then. [[Continue|8arep]]

<<set $metvio to true>> <<set $metkiera to true>>You slinked your way to the castle's expansive courtyard, the soothing trickles of water and cool summer breeze gently brushing your $hairl $hairt hair. At first glance, you could not find Kiera. Other faerings were milling about, children splashing in the fountain with exasperated parents trailing after them, friends lazing atop rocks and the wooden edges of flower beds. But Kiera? Nowhere to be found. Your friendly "good afternoons" and "have a great days" to the other visitors were half hearted, and you dearly hoped they did not notice the flippancy in your tone. Cautiously, you made your way to a secluded area of the courtyard, running your fingers along the stone wall leading to a small nook. You peered in, your eyes glancing side to side, but found zero traces of anyone. Sighing, you turned on your heel to leave. "Hi, $name." You almost shit yourself upon hearing the voice, then your body relaxed as your mind finally registered the voice as familiar. Looking <<if $height is "average">> slightly upwards,<<elseif $height is "short">> up, <<elseif $height is "very short">>up, craning your neck to do so, <<elseif $height is "very tall">>down, <<elseif $height is "tall">>slightly downwards,<</if>>you met Kiera's unmoving pale purple eyes. Her pupils were slitted, indicating her nocturnal nature. You've learned to relax under her steely gaze, because she never means to scare you. She always reminds you. <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET KIERA!<</notify>> [[Continue|8brep1]]

<<set $metvio to true>> <<set $metkiera to true>>With a determined pep in your step, you march your way over to Vio's bedchambers. You find yourself at the imposing doors, with a sloppy handwritten sign that says <b> VIO IS BUSY, COME BACK LATER!</b> ...which is code for "Vio is still sleeping, do not disturb." You know from the barely legible handwriting that that sign was all his hard work, no one else's. With three pointed knocks on the reddish oak doors, you waited for an answer. Foolish, because your happy-go-lucky co-worker only wakes up on his own volition when the world has ended thrice over. That, or if his kid needs feeding. How he manages to sleep in so late as a single dad is beyond you, but he does it. You know that if there's one thing in the world he's good at, it's caring for his absolutely adorable daughter, Maya, whose baby babbling was evident from the other side of the door. "Vio! Open the door!" Another three knocks, this time within a shorter interval, and with more force. Your knuckles were tinged red, your patience running thin. Faint groggy grumbles came through the door, along with a distinct //thump// and a long bedraggled '//owwww//'. The latch on the door clicked after a minute, and a half-lidded Vio, looking like he's still a quarter immersed in a dream, stood in front of you, with Maya squirming in an arm. With his shoulders slouched, back curved at an angle that resembled a shrimp, and bed creases all over his muscular arms, you knew that you were in for an earful. The dark creases meddled with the many scars along his forearms, trailing up his biceps. How many other scars laid under his clothing was something you wondered, but //definitely// none of your business and //very// inappropriate. He adjusted Maya's positioning in his arms, and she giggled. She found peace in chewing on a strand of his coily hair. "Oh! Hi, $name. Geez, I thought you were Cirrus and I almost had a heart attack, because like, you know, it's almost noon." He yawned, baring his pointed teeth. "Well that's actually funny because-" "Nope!" he exclaimed, holding a hand out to you and turning his face to the side. "Stop talking, right now. I haven't even peed for the morning and you're trying to tell me work things. $name. You are just pure malice." You didn't answer, only inhaling deeply as he ushered you through the door. "Oh, god," he groaned. "Look, is the baby allowed to stay for this conversation?" You shrugged. "Up to you. I think she'd be a lot calmer than her dad, don't you think, My-My?" you cooed, offering her a finger. She grabbed it with the force of a fucking python strangling its prey, bouncing up and down happily in Vio's arms at the exchange. She is so cute. "C'mon, My-My. Lets get you occupied for a bit," Vio said, leaving the room momentarily to put her in her playroom. <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET VIO!<</notify>> [[Continue|8arep1]]

"Respectfully, $name...what the hell." "Yeah, I know. I've gotten an earful from Big C already. They agreed though, which is extremely surprising. Hesitantly, but still." Kiera pinched the bridge of her aquiline nose, inhaling deeply. "Okay," she finally said, absorbing what you told her. "Yes, alright, I suppose this is slightly acceptable." She eyed you from the side, raising a white eyebrow. "And I guess you will not be leaving //with// Cirrus in the coming week?" You shook your head. "Is it so strange of me to want to be able to actually...do my job?" She snorted at that, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. "Well, no, but I truly hope you understand why he's apprehensive. You're old enough, $name." "Don't antagonize me," you said dramatically, earning a short laugh from Kiera. "I know. Dragon hunters. Humans trying to //grab my horns// without asking; I've heard horror stories. But Kiera..." "Yes, yes. I know our wonderful Cirrus personally attacking the prince of the North is absolutely hilarious. Intriguing that such a rumour exists. But you have to be careful. Northerners are ruthless, $name. Something is terribly wrong there, but I cannot place my finger on it." You swallowed. That's...//really// cryptic. "You uh... mind elaborating, Kiera?" She shakes her head, eyebrows creased in thought. "All I want you to be is careful, $name. Very careful. I have my suspicions. Surely you've heard of the tragedy of Ephorys?" Ephorys. Of course you've heard of Ephorys, one of your rulers that work alongside Cirrus. Thing is...they //aren't// working alongside anyone. And this is a horrific problem. Nobody has seen them for almost an entire century. And their presence was a welcome one; from when you had a meeting with all the rulers, they had an alluring confidence that always brought the room to silence when they spoke. They always donned a sparkling silver ring, crusted with the finest diamonds atop it. If asked, they were always willing to prattle about the luxury of the ring, how it was made, the craftsmanship..you get the idea. Faerings live long, and Ephorys has a lifespan that extends past the average faering, but that is still a long time to be absent. One hundred years, the West has not had a faering protector. You grimace. "Yes, of course. Do they have something to do with this?" Your tone was just as confused as you were. "No...no, they don't. Nothing with Prince Emilio. But perhaps you can look into their disappearance, too. You know. Since you're already investigating one problem, might as well look at another." You stand up, and Kiera follows shortly. "Yeah, I remember that pretty ring they had. Jeez, you've been brimming with ideas, haven't you Kiera?" She grins, her pupils dilating. "Oh, haven't I? Anyways, $name. Do be careful. Keep a watchful eye. Do //not// let any humans touch your horns." You almost physically recoil at that, and self consciously touch your $horn horns with your fingertips. "Oh, god. I'll be okay once they don't do //that//. Promise I'll be safe, okay?" You stand up, Kiera following suit. "Also, Cirrus wants to see you. And Vio." She nods silently. "Oh, Cirrus. Gods, and Vio too?" she mumbles, straightening out her skirt. Her purple eyes soften. "I'll be off, then," is all she says, as she turns on her heel to leave. Her pin straight white hair gently blows in the wind as she walks. <<notify>>REVIEW CHARACTER ENTRY: EPHORYS<</notify>> [[Continue|9]]

The rest of your day was spent packing a bag...and...yes, that was about it. You've never packed a bag in your life. Truthfully, it was stressful. //Incredibly// stressful. You've read storybooks where one must go on an adventure of their lifetime, but they never mentioned what belongings the protagonist put //in// their pack. But you must figure it out before nightfall. Somehow. You organized an array of outfits that could fit in your bag, a flask of water, rope, and...oh. There //must// be something you're forgetting. And just like that, you're on your hands and knees, searching for your favourite<<nobr>> <<cycle "$item1" autoselect>> <<option "paperback sketchbook">> <<option "special edition book">> <<option "leatherbound notebook">> <</cycle>><</nobr>>, which was lodged in the cranny between your wall and mattress. You stuff in some last minute items, and clip the straps of your bag shut. With an exasperated, and deep exhale, you crawl onto your soft bed and lay down flat on your back. You're leaving. Just like that. Gone. Your plan, that you've been rehearsing over and over and //over// in your head is actually coming to fruition. You cast a sideways glance to your room, which you turned completely upside down in your frantic packing process. Clothes were strewn about, one of your blankets lay in a crumpled heap of fabric on the ground, and you somehow spilt //all// of your pens from your desk onto the carpet. ... And until you had to leave, you spent the next part of your day begrudgingly cleaning up your self-made mess, casting quick looks out your window to approximate the time. Has the sun ever set so fast? [[Continue|10]]

After he returned, Vio eyed you suspiciously, deep blue eyes following your figure as you plopped yourself comfortably on his messy bed. "Ahhh...I see how it is," he said, planting his hands on his hips. "You wake me from the sweetest sleep I've ever had, threaten me with Cirrus' name, //and// take over my bed. You really are evil, you know that, right?" "Stop being dramatic, Vio. I'm just the delivery <<if $person is "man" >>boy<<elseif $person is "woman" >>girl<<elseif $person is "person" >>kid<</if>> for Cirrus." He scoffed. "Yeah, right, $name. No. You're just an asshole, I think." "Maybe if you got out of your night clothes then I'd feel slightly more offended." Vio straightened himself to his full height, and next to you, he was <<if $height is "average">>quite a bit taller than you.<<elseif $height is "short">> //huge//, <<elseif $height is "very short">>//completely// towering over you. Like, Cirrus levels of towering over you. <<elseif $height is "very tall">>around the same height.<<elseif $height is "tall">> taller.<</if>> Along with his muscular stature that suggested facts along the lines of //wow, this guy could probably skip me like a flat pebble on a smooth surface of water//, he was intimidating upon first sight. Well, if he had the balls to do something like that, because you knew he did not. His dimpled smiles, freckled cheeks, and outrageously loud laughs were not a characteristic of a villain. Villain and Vio would never end up in a sentence, except for well, this one. "$name, you wound me," he gasped, with a false outrage. "Wound, I say! My pyjamas are quite comfortable, please and thank you." He crossed his arms over his chest, squinting and pouting his full lips in disgust. Then, his face relaxed when you gave him a gentle smile. "Hey, what's really goin' on, $name?" "Do you have the brain material to listen? White matter all ready to go? Fully awake now?" "Um, yeah. C'mon now, chop chop." [[Continue|8arep2]]

As the Second Royal Vanguard, your reputation precedes you. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

You lazed around in your window seat, leaning against the wall of the nook with a <<nobr>> <<cycle "$tcoff" autoselect>> <<option "tea">> <<option "coffee">> <</cycle>><</nobr>> in hand, as you watched the sun come to rest. It was a quiet hour for faerings. The time before dusk is a moment of pause, to watch the beauty of the sunset, laugh with children, and hold loved ones close. In quiet contemplation, you observed the mixing of light blues with deeper ones, warm purples, pinks, oranges. It was beautiful. Although you have watched <<nobr>> <<cycle "$sun" autoselect>> <<option "many a sunrise, even more than the average faering">> <<option "many sunrises">> <</cycle>><</nobr>>, the colours meddling with each other, playfully, like watching children romp, is certainly a part of the Midlands you would miss. You knew the sun rises and falls in every land; the Northlands, Southlands, East, West. Well, obviously. You'd see the same sunset no matter where you were. It was as if the gods were knitting with vibrant strands of yarn that were the colours of the sunset; those reds, blues, purples, oranges. The tranquility of your homeland. It leaves a small part of you wondering...was this the right decision? <<if $betrayc is true>> And to make matters worse, you didn't //tell// Cirrus you were leaving. To put it lightly, you're absolutely screwed. Cirrus is coming to the North just a week after you. He'll find you, one way or another. And he could rip you apart. Literally //rip you apart//. With his claws, or teeth. Piece by piece, limb by limb. <<else>> Even if it's the wrong decision, at least you know that Cirrus, Vio, and Kiera know your whereabouts. But hey. You're a //faering//. Whatever troubles are brewing up north can't be anything overwhelmingly awful. You can only hope.<</if>> [[Continue|11]]

You took a deep breath as you returned to your chambers, deciding what to do now that you've lied to Cirrus. It feels as if he knows; but why wouldn't he? Refusing to let your thoughts get the better of you, you follow Cirrus' instructions to first ask Vio to meet them. Now that you've dug your own grave, you have to //thrive in it.// You cannot tell Vio and Kiera of your plan. [[And so you go.|8ab][$viof to Math.clamp ($viof -40, 0, 100)]]

<<set $metvio to true>> You make your way to Vio's quarters, your step slow. Reluctant, even. Usually, even the idea of seeing Vio with his daughter would liven your mood, but today was an exception. You eventually find yourself at the imposing doors, with a sloppy handwritten sign that says <b> VIO IS BUSY, COME BACK LATER!</b> ...which is code for "Vio is still sleeping, do not disturb." You know from the barely legible handwriting that that sign was all his hard work, no one else's. With three pointed knocks on the reddish oak doors, you waited for an answer. Foolish, because your happy-go-lucky co-worker only wakes up on his own volition when the world has ended thrice over. That, or if his kid needs feeding. How he manages to sleep in so late as a single dad is beyond you, but he does it. You know that if there's one thing in the world he's good at, it's caring for his absolutely adorable daughter, Maya, whose baby babbling was evident from the other side of the door. "Vio! Open the door!" Another three knocks, this time within a shorter interval, and with more force. Your knuckles were tinged red, your patience running thin. Faint groggy grumbles came through the door, along with a distinct //thump// and a long bedraggled '//owwww//'. The latch on the door clicked after a minute, and a half-lidded Vio, looking like he's still a quarter immersed in a dream, stood in front of you, with Maya squirming in an arm. With his shoulders slouched, back curved at an angle that resembled a shrimp, and bed creases all over his muscular arms, you knew that you were in for an earful. The dark creases meddled with the many scars along his forearms, trailing up his biceps. How many other scars laid under his clothing was something you wondered, but //definitely// none of your business and //very// inappropriate. He adjusted Maya's positioning in his arms, and she giggled. She found peace in chewing on a strand of his coily hair. "Oh! Hi, $name. Geez, I thought you were Cirrus and I almost had a heart attack, because like, you know, it's almost noon." He yawned, baring his pointed teeth. "Well-" "Nope!" he exclaimed, holding a hand out to you and turning his face to the side. "Stop talking, right now. I haven't even peed for the morning and you're trying to tell me work things. $name. You are just pure malice." You didn't answer, only inhaling deeply as he ushered you through the door. "Oh, god," he groaned. "Look, is the baby allowed to stay for this conversation?" You shrugged. "I mean, probably," you cooed, offering her a finger. She grabbed it with the force of a fucking python strangling its prey, bouncing up and down happily in Vio's arms at the exchange. She is so cute. "Okay! Then what's up, $name?" <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET VIO!<</notify>> [[Continue|8bb]]

"His Highness would like to see you," you say, your eyes following Vio's fingers as he strokes Maya's coily hair. "Cirrus?" he says, the corners of his lips curling in a smile. "What, they need more tea or something?" You shrug. "I'm not sure, but he wants Kiera with you. Wait at his door while I get her, okay?" He hums in acknowledgement. "Mm. Okay. I'll be out in a minute, I just need to get dressed." There was a moment of silence. Vio seemed to be inspecting you, your face. Then, he smiled, showing his sharp teeth, and retreated back to his room. ... You turned away to find Kiera, hearing little squeals of joy from Maya, along with Vio's baby talking directed at her. [[Continue|8bc][$kieraf to Math.clamp ($kieraf -40, 0, 100)]]

<<set $metkiera to true>> You slinked your way to the castle's expansive courtyard, the soothing trickles of water and cool summer breeze gently brushing your $hairl $hairt hair. At first glance, you could not find Kiera. Other faerings were milling about, children splashing in the fountain with exasperated parents trailing after them, friends lazing atop rocks and the wooden edges of flower beds. But Kiera? Nowhere to be found. Your friendly "good afternoons" and "have a great days" to the other visitors were half hearted, and you dearly hoped they did not notice the flippancy in your tone. Cautiously, you made your way to a secluded area of the courtyard, running your fingers along the stone wall leading to a small nook. You peered in, your eyes glancing side to side, but found zero traces of anyone. Sighing, you turned on your heel to leave. "Hi, $name." You jumped upon hearing the voice, then your body relaxed as your mind finally registered the voice as familiar. Looking <<if $height is "average">> slightly upwards,<<elseif $height is "short">> up, <<elseif $height is "very short">>up, craning your neck to do so, <<elseif $height is "very tall">>down, <<elseif $height is "tall">>slightly downwards,<</if>>you met Kiera's unmoving pale purple eyes. Her pupils were slitted, indicating her nocturnal nature. You've learned to relax under her steely gaze, because she never means to scare you. She always reminds you. <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET KIERA!<</notify>> [[Continue|8bd]]

You smile at her. "Hey, Kiera." She narrowed her eyes, her slitted pupils becoming as thin as a needle. "You seem different." It felt as if your heart leapt up into your throat and lodged itself there. With a weak laugh, you replied, "How so? I mean...I feel alright." Kiera shakes her head, then tucks a long strand of white hair behind her ear. "Yes, perhaps you are. Was there something you needed?" Another razor sharp tone, extremely reminiscent of Cirrus' earlier. You suppose that Kiera must have picked up on their mannerisms in the long years that the two have known each other. She //has// been in service the longest. "Cirrus would like to see you. Vio is waiting at their door." She stood up without a word. Quickly, as if to escape conversation from you. As if talking to you was physically painful. And perhaps it was. You watched her walk away, without so much a glance back at you. [[Continue.|9]]

It was nearing your time of leave now. The moon was beginning to make her appearance, peeking over the tip of a wispy cloud. You thought it resembled stretched, threadbare yarn. Cirrus clouds. //Oh, Cirrus//, you think to yourself sadly. <<if $betrayc is true>> Gods. You were naïve to think you wouldn't have the thought of lying to them nipping at your feet. You could go back. You //could// go back, and make this all right. Would Cirrus even be awake by now? With a deep breath, you decide to... [[go and talk to them, no matter how embarrassed you are.|11b]] [[continue on with your plan.|11c]] <<else>> Oh, Cirrus. Yes, you'd miss them. And Vio's cheerfulness, and the quiet walks in the gardens with Kiera. And Maya, of course. You didn't clarify if Vio and Kiera are coming along with Cirrus when they arrive in the North, but you hope that at least one of them does. You have a long night ahead of you. Lots of walking. Now, the wonderful thing about being a faering? You can unveil your wings at your convenience. [[Continue|12]] <</if>>

<<set $chapter to "Chapter One">>You've gone for many late night walks, usually with Cirrus if he felt like forsaking sleep for a few hours, but now you're bundled up all alone. And you feel a little bit like a puff pastry with too much crust. With your research on the North, and with your knowledge of basic geography //yeah//, it's going to be damn cold. The most practical route to the North is by road, however, humans will be very...startled upon seeing your long curved horns atop your head. You're lucky your humanoid form can hide your impressive $wing wings. Humans would definitely not be too fond of that. You can't hide your horns though, so you decide to take a slightly longer route through the thick forest that bridges the North and the Midlands to avoid unnecessary interactions with humans. The Loren Forest - an unbridled forest teeming with nature and beasts alike. The stuff of human fables. And, to them, you were probably one of the monsters warned about to young Northern children. //Don't go in the forest alone! A great big faering with great big teeth will eat you right up!// Yuck. You'd rather have a nice sweet treat that didn't involve the consumption of young humans. Travelling through the Loren Forest is no problem for you, as one of the 'monsters'. You have night vision. You can turn into your dragon form whenever you want. You have an ample supply of hidden weapons, as well as your magical abilities. You will be okay. So why was your heart racing so much? You weren’t a child. Slinging your pack over your shoulder, and throwing a few glances around the hall when you poke your nose out your chamber’s door, you took a deep breath. You had everything you needed. Without a second thought, you sauntered your way out the castle, taking a secret exit that would take you closest to the Loren Forest. [[And so you leave, in the silence of the night.|chap1]]

Your feet are mindlessly carried you across the castle floor as if programmed to, breathing heavy, your eyes watering from the air drying them out. What would you tell them? After you told them you lied? Beg on your knees for forgiveness? Become even more shameful as Cirrus reprimands you for your actions? The castle is deserted. His wing, as you sharply round a corner, is also completely empty. It's late. Of course it would be. Then your knuckles are striking on the wood of his doors, voice calling out woefully. Desperately. "Cirrus," you say, your voice hoarse. "Cirrus, please answer. My liege. My liege, please answer. I...I'm sorry." A painfully empty, deep silence followed. Your breath was the only sound filling the air; and to you, felt like a pollutant. There was no answer. There was a gust of wind that slipped its way through a window set just ajar, its whistling mocking you and your impertinence. "I lied to you," you continue. "Well- didn't tell you the full truth. I'm leaving to go now. To the North. I thought that- maybe, if I didn't tell you, I don't know- I..." You clamp your lips shut, biting your tongue. Your voice was raising. You //were// desperate. "...I thought that by not telling you that I could be a hero in my own sense. You know...undercover mission and reveal to you all the details of my endeavours." You let out a small laugh. "You might not even be here. Or perhaps, you're listening and telling yourself, //gods, what imbecile did I get to work for me?// God. Why am I still talking?" You swore you heard shuffling behind the door, but upon closer inspection of the room, it was the wind sifting through the leaves of a big, bushy plant on the opposite wall. Cirrus is a kind person. But they are also the Northern Protector of the Midlands. And they are also //your// superior. Perhaps you were a fool to think he would answer. Yes. You were. Cirrus has lived many, many decades. He would not allow you to get away with lying. For another excruciatingly long minute, you stood, swaying on the balls of your feet like a thin willow. Uncertain. Embarrassed. You could leave a note, do something, do //anything//... but then you'd be begging. Pleading, like a child. When the time comes for a conversation, the moment will present itself. You've lived for many years. You could wait a week. And pray that Cirrus will grant you a glance in your pitiful direction. A shiver runs down your spine, from the coolness of the open window, or something else. You have to go soon, before the night morphs into dawn. With your heart rate slowing to a more regular pace, you sigh, and drag yourself back to your room to gather your belongings. You have to leave before you get any more bright ideas. And shame yourself more than you already have. [[Continue|12][$cirrusf to Math.clamp ($cirrusf +10, 0, 100)]] <<set $desperate to true>>

The thick forest that connects the North to the Midlands. If you wish to travel discreetly, you must tread a path through this luscious forest. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

As you step foot into the Loren Forest, your thoughts could not stop returning to your interest in the North. Like clockwork. Prince and Princess Lovell, the elusive twins. Cirrus, according to humans, threatening only the Prince. Prince and Princess Lovell, Cirrus...Prince and- god, you needed to focus. Your impromptu visit to the North. Surely that must straighten the prince's back and make him give you an explanation as to why these rumours about Cirrus exist. [[Continue to Chapter One.|13]]

<h3>What is your name, Vanguard?</h3> <<textbox "$name" "Enter name">> <h3>Name Suggestions</h3> * [[Amos|prologue][$name to "Amos"]] * [[Raia|prologue][$name to "Raia"]] * [[Imari|prologue][$name to "Imari"]] * [[Lorien|prologue][$name to "Lorien"]] [[Continue|prologue]]

Being the Second Royal Vanguard is no easy task - keeping tabs on the North, reporting to your ruler, Cirrus, of any peculiarities, as well as working with the two other vanguards. However, you've devised a plan to make yourself more useful. This plan of yours breaks the number one rule of faerings, one that has been etched into your long-term memory: <b> NEVER BE TOO CURIOUS.</b> [[Continue to Prologue.|1]]

You would think that you'd be used to being a Royal Vanguard by now, but the way other faerings bow at the waist as you pass will always startle you. <<nobr>> "My <<cycle "$liege" autoselect>> <<option "liege">> <<option "lady">> <<option "lord">> <</cycle>><</nobr>>! Good morning." You turn, your $eye eyes meeting those of a curious guard of the castle. They politely bowed their head, the deep blue hues of their curved horns dipping. "Good morning." You acknowledged them with a quick nod, their lithe figure scurrying off to greet another. It's been, what, twenty years you've worked under Cirrus' commands, and yet your special treatment never fails to amaze you. Speaking of Cirrus' commands... //And// the severe lack of them. Your sweet monarch seems wholly satisfied with their life of eating disrespectful amounts of treats and inviting you and the other vanguards in for tea about ten times a day. As a "command", supposedly. It's not like you want them to start a war, or negotiate with tyrant kings and queens about political nonsense that skids right over the tip of your $horn horns. You want them to send you off to the North. By yourself. To find out whether rumours you've been hearing about the Northern Prince are true or not. I mean, come on; Cirrus sending aggressive threats on the prince's mortal //life//? Your Cirrus? The one who's probably primping themselves in the mirror and deciding what jewelled ring they should wear for the day? Perhaps the deep crimson trilliant cut garnet ring, with a gold band? Or a brilliant moon opal, the same shade as Cirrus' scales in his draconic form, wrapped in sterling silver? You're committing faering blasphemy; your only saving grace is Cirrus, who you wager you can reason with. Cirrus, unlike most faerings, finds joy in investigating and exploring new ideas, but through maps and books rather than travelling. Other faerings would happily sit on their tails doing absolutely nothing for the rest of their lives, watching the world fall apart. As it goes for a species that is older than trees, and the soil itself. You don't think you can do that; that is, sitting on your haunches and willfully turning a blind eye to the world's happenings. You're lucky you're talking to someone you can actually reason with. How //exactly// you'll convince someone with the will of a rock is slightly beyond you. [[Continue|2]] <<run UIBar.show();>> <<run UIBar.unstow();>>

You weren’t supposed to be here. Of course you knew you weren’t supposed to be here, that’s…kind of the point. The chilling air of the North whipped against your face as you dashed through a thicket of dark forest, weaving your figure through trees and brambles. Breathing came to you in short rasps, the oxygen seeming to leave your lungs faster than it could enter. You were lucky that being a faering gave you better night vision than that of humans or elves; you could safely assume that the forest was devoid of any kind of light if you weren’t blessed with your eyes. Breathe. In. Out. Deeper. In. Out You slowed down your breakneck pace, your chest heaving as you leaned your weight against a tree. Its bark scraped the skin of your palms as you dug your claws deeper into the wood. You looked at the scratch marks your claws left into the wood. Have trees always been that squishy, like clay? A childish idea popped into your mind. Your claws traced lines into the bark, a pleasantly grainy feeling springing up your fingers, from your nails. <h4>$name </h4> You couldn’t even fully admire your craftsmanship as you threw a quick glance behind you. No one was following you, that was certain. And with that thought, your shoulders relaxed just slightly. Even if anyone //dared// to follow you, you were more than capable of neutralizing them without a fuss. You had the advantage of your night vision, your claws, your wings, your breath. You were a faering. You were a part of the //Royal Vanguard//, under Cirrus’ direct commands. There were no other beings that could so much as lay a finger on you. Except for Cirrus themself. <<if $betrayc is true>> And the thought of him finding out you were missing made your stomach drop. But, Cirrus was the type of person to make you wait for punishment. They won't send out a search group, or try to sabotage your trip. No, they would make you wait and sit in agonizing suspension until they crossed your path. <<else>> And you’re glad that you told them you were leaving tonight. You don't think you would ever want to see Cirrus genuinely angry. Sure, they've been irritated at Vio when he misses a meeting, or fumes whenever his dresses don't pleat right, but genuine //fury?// Hell no.<</if>> //They// could end you without even blinking one of those beautiful blue eyes. Thinking of them dreadfully reminded you of the taboo you were committing under faering standards, and being alone in the endeavor only spiked your anxiety further. There were only trees, and brambles, and lichen. //Keep going, $name,//you told yourself, your $hairc eyebrows furrowing. [[Continue|14]]

<h2>EPHORYS (they/them) - //THE WESTERN PROTECTOR//</h2> As mysterious as the stars. Ephorys is an enigma. Not one faering has seen them for the past century, which is //extremely// bizarre for a species that always abide by the rules. They are an anomaly. Ephorys did not have retainers, the last time they were present in the Midlands. It is devastatingly worrying. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2>POLARIS (they/she) - //THE SOUTHERN PROTECTOR//</h2> As reliable as the sun. Polaris and their one assistant, Aquila, work as a duo; on the same level. Although Aquila is not a ruler, Polaris keeps them as a close friend and as a right hand. Polaris suspects Cirrus' uneasiness regarding the North. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

<h2> CALLISTO (he/they) - //THE EASTERN PROTECTOR// </h2> Ever-changing like the moon. Callisto does not fit the typical monarch stereotype, and makes it known that this is purposeful. He's been watching the East descend into madness. <<link "Back">><<if tags().includes("game-info")>><<goto $return>><<else>><<run Engine.backward()>><</if>><</link>>

You carefully tread your way back onto the main pathway, your breathing laboured. Ducking under a branch, taking extra care not to get your $horn horns caught, you decided to take a break under a canopy. Your lungs grappled for air as you quickly took a swig of water from your flask, attempting to slow your heart rate and clear your head. Wiping your mouth with the back of your palm, you took another deep inhale. Then step by step, continued on. … Your pointed ears perked up at any noise of the forest; from nocturnal animals, to the whistling of the cold northern wind, or your own breathing, which came out in white clouds. Instincts were clawing their way through your level headed mind. You’re fine. It’s fine. It’s fine. And though the soft mossy ground tempted you to stay situated exactly where you were, you kept trekking along, your footsteps light on the ground. Multiple times you’ve thought of just shifting forms and flying to that damn estate. Legs were incredibly inconvenient. Wings were not. But remembering that humans aren’t exactly used to seeing dragons..perhaps not. You’re aware of all the dragon hunting literature present in every human culture. Slay the dragon! Pierce its heart! Bring its head back on a platter for the queen! Or whatever they say. Your eyes flicked from tree to tree, bramble to bramble, senses on high alert as you searched for anything out of the ordinary. You felt like a wild animal. “Is someone…there?” [[Continue|15]]

A gravelly cough; a sound that shook you to the core. Your breath caught in your throat, and you whipped your body around towards the direction of the weak voice. Your line of sight narrowed towards a nearby overgrowth, laden with thick vines and sage coloured moss. Upon closer inspection, it looked like a shabbily thrown together tree fortress of sorts; one that a child would make. The foliage, now browning at the edges, partly obscured the entrance, a light gently glowing behind the curtain of greenery. A fire. Someone...is //in there//. Then a laugh rang out, echoing. A startling contrast to the gentle hum of nature surrounding you. One that was surely meant to lighten the mood, but you could only think about the way it sounded like the air was being stripped from their throat; a sound that made the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. Cautiously, very //very// cautiously, you approached, one foot in front of the other. Leaves crunched under each deliberate step. A catlike stride as you approached. The smell of iron stung your sensitive nostrils, causing you to recoil. You stopped dead in your tracks, heart dropping as you covered your mouth with a hand, nails digging into your skin. Your eyes widened in horror as your gaze slowly averted to the ground below your feet, the blades of grass coated with crimson. It was shiny. Wet. Deep in colour. Red; so very, //very// red. The colour as a ruby, or perhaps a garnet, inlaid on silver jewelry would be beautiful. But by the gods, the scene laid out before you was anything but. [[Continue|16]]

“Gods,” you choked out, dashing through the curtains of greenery, one of your horns snapping a vine off. The heat of fire hit your face and you blinked at the unexpected temperature change. You almost choked when you opened your eyes, woefully hoping this was some sort of sadistic, twisted hallucination. Slumped against a nook in the corner of the overgrowth was a woman, an arm across her stomach, breaths shallow. She was weak, barely able to keep herself upright. Two wounds, you thought to yourself, as you rushed to her side. Her arm obscured the one on the side, although with her half-conscious state, she did a very poor job at hiding it. Stab wounds, by the way blood was still pouring through her fingers, and the way the fabric of her vest was ripped. The other was much more obvious, and one she didn’t even bother to cover up. An arrow in her thigh. She hadn’t pulled it out.You don’t think she had the energy to pull it out. She shifted uncomfortably under your stare. “Are those…” another cough, “horns?” she asked, an eyebrow rising. [["You're dying!" you exclaim wildly.|16a][$veraf to Math.clamp ($veraf +10, 0, 100)]] [[“Don’t you have better things to worry about like, I don’t know, bleeding out and dying?”|16b][$veraf to Math.clamp ($veraf +10, 0, 100)]] [[You stay silent, pursing your lips as you hurry to her help.|16c][$veraf to Math.clamp ($veraf +5, 0, 100)]] [["Err. Probably," you say, slightly exasperated, and very confused.|16d][$veraf to Math.clamp ($veraf +10, 0, 100)]]

The woman giggled, the sound low and raspy. "Mm. I guess you're right, <<if $liege is "liege">> beautiful<<elseif $liege is "lady">> pretty lady<<elseif $liege is "lord">> handsome<</if>>." You collapsed to your knees, flinging your pack to the ground. The compliment flew over your head as you assessed her wound. “What’s your name?” you asked, grabbing a spare shirt and silently asking her to remove her arm. Your eyebrows were furrowed, a resolute glimmer in your $eye eyes. She groaned, like this was just some minor inconvenience, her head lolling to the side and relenting. She slowly slides her arm to rest limply beside her. You pressed the shirt against the wound, and she hissed through gritted teeth. She turned to you, steely grey eyes resolute, as you applied more pressure against the wound. … “Name's Vera,” she murmured, then cussed under her breath as you pushed harder. She closed her eyes, tilting her chin upwards. A deep breath. “Think my liver mighta ruptured. The bleeding just won’t //fucking stop//.” [[Continue|17]] <<set $metvera to true>>

The woman huffed out a short laugh through her nose. "Ha. You're probably right, <<if $liege is "liege">> beautiful<<elseif $liege is "lady">> pretty lady<<elseif $liege is "lord">> handsome<</if>>." You collapsed to your knees, flinging your pack to the ground. The compliment flew over your head as you assessed her wound. “What’s your name?” you asked, grabbing a spare shirt and silently asking her to remove her arm. Your eyebrows were furrowed, a resolute glimmer in your $eye eyes. She groaned, like this was just some minor inconvenience, her head lolling to the side and relenting. She slowly slides her arm to rest limply beside her. You pressed the shirt against the wound, and she hissed through gritted teeth. She turned to you, steely grey eyes resolute, as you applied more pressure against the wound. … “Name's Vera,” she murmured, then cussed under her breath as you pushed harder. She closed her eyes, tilting her chin upwards. A deep breath. “Think my liver mighta ruptured. The bleeding just won’t //fucking stop//.” [[Continue|17]] <<set $metvera to true>>

The woman doesn't initiate a conversation, instead settling in the silent atmosphere you created. A curiosity burned bright in her eyes as she studied you. You collapsed to your knees, flinging your pack to the ground. The compliment flew over your head as you assessed her wound. “What’s your name?” you asked, grabbing a spare shirt and silently asking her to remove her arm. Your eyebrows were furrowed, a resolute glimmer in your $eye eyes. She groaned, like this was just some minor inconvenience, her head lolling to the side and relenting. She slowly slides her arm to rest limply beside her. You pressed the shirt against the wound, and she hissed through gritted teeth. She turned to you, steely grey eyes resolute, as you applied more pressure against the wound. … “Name's Vera,” she murmured, then cussed under her breath as you pushed harder. She closed her eyes, tilting her chin upwards. A deep breath. “Think my liver mighta ruptured. The bleeding just won’t //fucking stop//.” [[Continue|17]] <<set $metvera to true>>

The woman snorted, a smirk pulling at the corner of her lips. There was a scar that nicked her skin; it looked old. "Hm. Whatever you say, <<if $liege is "liege">> beautiful<<elseif $liege is "lady">> pretty lady<<elseif $liege is "lord" handsome>> <</if>>. But in my opinion, I think those long pointy things growing out your head //are// horns. Just if you're confused." Your face flushed as you collapsed to your knees, flinging your pack to the ground. “Okay. Yes, they are horns. What’s your name?” you ask, grabbing a spare shirt and silently asking her to remove her arm. Your eyebrows were furrowed, a resolute glimmer in your $eye eyes. She groaned, like this was just some minor inconvenience, her head lolling to the side and relenting. She slowly slides her arm to rest limply beside her. You pressed the shirt against the wound, and she hissed through gritted teeth. She turned to you, steely grey eyes resolute, as you applied more pressure against the wound. … “Name's Vera,” she murmured, then cussed under her breath as you pushed harder. She closed her eyes, tilting her chin upwards. A deep breath. “Think my liver mighta ruptured. The bleeding just won’t //fucking stop//.” [[Continue|17]] <<set $metvera to true>>

//Vera//. The name made something in your memory flicker, but you paid it no mind. You lift a portion of the shirt off from her side, your head spinning at the sight of so much blood. You swiftly reapply pressure, covering the area. “You’re okay with me using magic?” you ask her softly. Vera nodded, blinking slowly. Her eyelashes fluttered, and there was a heavy silence for a few seconds that made you panic. She sighs a heavy, shivering sigh. “I’ve tried using transmogrification on it, to try and mend my flesh but I just…” “Hush. Let me help.” She laughed hoarsely. “You don’t know who I am, and yet…” she whispered, trailing off. “I might be a bad person, y'know. Are all faerings like you? Helping just anybody?" [["So what? You wanna die?" you say, raising a brow. |17a][$veraf to Math.clamp ($veraf +8, 0, 100)]] [["I know that you're dying." There wasn't a hint of humour in your voice. |17b]] [[♡ "Well, I know you're Vera. How's that, eh?" you say proudly, shooting her a grin in hopes of lightening the mood. |17c][$verar to Math.clamp ($verar +5, 0, 100)]] <<notify>>CHARACTERS UPDATED: YOU'VE MET VERA!<</notify>>

"Oh, I'm so hurt!" she exclaimed, somehow finding the energy to lay the back of her palm against her forehead dramatically. "My saviour is being oh so mean to a poor soul like me..." "Goodness...you sure talk a lot for someone who's barely conscious..." You lightly hovered a hand over the affected area, Vera’s grey eyes curiously peering at the way your fingertips glowed with the arcane arts of your people. There was a steady hum of soft energy flowing towards your fingers, the warmth filling your veins. Slowly, very carefully, you prodded at her wound with your magic, attempting to seal as much of the wound as you could. <<nobr>><<cycle "$magic" autoselect>> <<option "Magic was not exactly your strong point, so you hoped you were doing enough.">><<option "Truthfully, you kind of sucked at magic, so you just had to pray that your instincts were good enough.">><<option "You were adept at magic, but the size and severity of the wound still worried you.">><</cycle>><</nobr>> You need to get Vera to a healer, and fast. A very savvy one, too. [[Continue|18]]

She gives you a wry smile. "I know that." You lightly hovered a hand over the affected area, Vera’s grey eyes curiously peering at the way your fingertips glowed with the arcane arts of your people. There was a steady hum of soft energy flowing towards your fingers, the warmth filling your veins. Slowly, very carefully, you prodded at her wound with your magic, attempting to seal as much of the wound as you could. <<nobr>><<cycle "$magic" autoselect>><<option "Magic was not exactly your strong point, so you hoped you were doing enough.">><<option "Truthfully, you kind of sucked at magic, so you just had to pray that your instincts were good enough.">><<option "You were adept at magic, but the size and severity of the wound still worried you.">><</cycle>><</nobr>> You need to get Vera to a healer, and fast. A very savvy one, too. [[Continue|18]]

She falls silent, a hint of a smirk playing across her rosy lips. "Aha. The Western Academia should take you in, hm? I'm sure they'd appreciate your...y'know." She gestures in your general direction, eyes glancing at your boots, then up to your face. You're not too sure what that means. Maybe she's starting to lose consciousness again. You lightly hovered a hand over the affected area, Vera’s grey eyes curiously peering at the way your fingertips glowed with the arcane arts of your people. There was a steady hum of soft energy flowing towards your fingers, the warmth filling your veins. Slowly, very carefully, you prodded at her wound with your magic, attempting to seal as much of the wound as you could. <<nobr>><<cycle "$magic" autoselect>> <<option "Magic was not exactly your strong point, so you hoped you were doing enough.">><<option "Truthfully, you kind of sucked at magic, so you just had to pray that your instincts were good enough.">><<option "You were adept at magic, but the size and severity of the wound still worried you.">><</cycle>><</nobr>> You need to get Vera to a healer, and fast. A very savvy one, too. [[Continue|18]]

“Are all faerings like me?” you echoed, humming as you pondered the question. It was good that she was talking. “Well, no. Definitely not." “No?" she repeated weakly. "Why not?" You fall into a deep, focused silence as the edges of her long wound started to mend together from your efforts. Although it was mostly a superficial fix, it would still help to stop the onslaught of heavy blood flow. "...Let's get into that later," you utter monotonously, your attention too carefully trained on sustaining your strain of magic on her rather than giving a proper answer. From the way her eyebrows furrowed, it seems as if your tone was a little //too// curt. "Um..I’ve never seen a faering up close, sorry if I’m asking weird questions,” she said lightly, still intently studying your busy hands. You see her eyes bounce from finger to finger, most likely inspecting your sharp nails. “Your magic feels nice. Very warm. Soothing…” A smile graces your lips. “Huh. Interesting…” She looked you dead in the eyes, her gaze so intense it made your magic fluctuate upon seeing it. She looked...deeply, deeply troubled, which in turn, raised every hair on your body. You thought she was okay. You really thought so. Is she not? Did you do something wrong? “$name,” she said, her tone alarmingly stern, “bring me to the Northern Estate. Find Prince Emilio...he can-he can help me. Us. There’s…a map. Leads ya right to the-” a cough racks her throat, and she gasps for air. She catches herself after a moment, her eyes growing distant. Eyelashes flutter. Hands flexing and unflexing, each time her movements growing slower. And slower. “It leads you right to the estate. Just…give him this.” She offers you her bloodied hand, brandishing one, extremely luxurious ring. The ruby's deep crimson and her blood melded into one beautifully horrific picture. “He’ll…he’ll know what to do. And that blondie...” Then a heavy silence, as she slowly fell forward, doubling over herself, her unfinished sentence hanging in the air; a ghostly presence. Her body fell against the bed of dry leaves beneath her, with a muted crunch. You froze. You never told her your name...did you? [[Continue|19]]

Your heart rate slowly stabilized as a slow pulse thrummed against your two fingers resting on Vera’s neck. The carotid artery. Her heart was beating. She //was// alive. But barely. Just barely. As far as your human knowledge goes, Vera was quite tall. Especially for a human woman. You gently wrapped your arms around her midsection, conscious of her wounds, and hoisted her onto your shoulder with a grunt. <<if $height is "average">> You were still much taller than her, anyways, so it wasn’t much of an issue. <<elseif $height is "short">> She was…actually not much shorter than you, so you had to put in an extra effort to carry her weight.<<elseif $height is "very short">>She was actually //taller// than you. And she’s a human. This proved to be an extra struggle for you as you adjusted her position over your shoulder.<<elseif $height is "very tall">>Of course, this was no problem for you since you towered over most //faerings//. And this human, though tall for a woman and quite muscular, still posed zero trouble. <<elseif $height is "tall">>This was no problem, since you towered over her, and many faerings, as a matter of fact. Though she was quite muscular and tall for a woman, it wasn’t a problem for you. <</if>> Vera. She knows the prince. She //also// knows your name. And why is she injured? Who injured her? And what was the reason? And that ring… You felt a headache threatening to form behind your eyes. Your priority was getting Vera to the Northern Estate, and //now//. No time for thinking. You’ll do that once you know Vera will be alright. The most efficient way of travelling to the North as quickly as possible //with// a person on the brink of death? Flying, of course. [[Continue|20]]

Oh, yes. Running away and not facing the problem at hand. Fully embracing the picture perfect image of the stereotypical faering. But you've made up your mind, and tried avoiding any thought of backing down from your plan. You have to commit. You felt<<nobr>><<cycle "$proud" autoselect>> <<option "guilt chipping away at your insides, no matter what you told yourself.">> <<option "no remorse.">> <</cycle>><</nobr>> [[Continue|12]]

The wind danced around your figure, through your $hairc hair, weaving through the folds of your clothing. Vera’s heartbeat slowly thumped against your chest as your powerful wings beat a steady rhythm into the air, and finally,some inkling of peace settled into your chest. Her breaths tickled the nape of your neck as you firmly supported her against your body. You could //not// let her go. Seriously. If the prince of the North has connections to this girl, and later found out that //you// were the one that dropped her from a high altitude because your hand slipped…no. No no no. Stories of the prince have spread far and wide across the lands, ranging from him being mysterious in an intriguingly attractive way, to antisocial and curt. You don’t know which it is, but you think you agree with <<nobr>><<cycle "$opinionemilio" autoselect>> <<option "the former.">><<option "the latter.">><<option "neither. It’s way too early to judge his character without meeting him.">><</cycle>><</nobr>> The wind whistled around your pointed ears, the tips growing frigid as the cool night air hit your face. Is there anything better than cruising along the stars, as if the universe was your field and the sky your playground? Vera’s fingers then twitched, your eyes immediately drawn to the movement. In an instant, your grip turned iron hard against her figure, restraining her even further. A groan fell from her lips, and she squirmed in your arms. “Vera?” you ask, having to raise your voice over the gusting of wind. “You’re awake?” To better hear her weak voice, you thrusted your body higher into the air and flattened your wings to quell the thundering sound of your beating wings. “Where the hell am I…” she mumbles against the crook of your neck. Her nose pops out from under your bicep, a high pitched squeak falling from her lips soon after. “My //god.// You-you…w-we’re…” “In the clouds, human,” you reply. “Liberating, isn't it? I couldn’t imagine a life where I was bound to the earth.” “Ugh…must be nice…” She lets out a shivering sigh, falling silent. She still breathed. Her heart still beat. She was alive. Yes, that’s good. Through some points during your journey, your stomach churned because of her breaths hitching at random intervals, like her body forced her to take in air. The human body is supposed to be a self regulating, harmonious process and most definitely //not// akin to broken machinery; cogs and gears screeching against one another. “Stay with me, Vera,” you murmur. “We should be close.” [[Continue|21]]

aaaaand...that's all i have for now! :)) when chapter one is completed, all ROs will be introduced. i'm out of writer's block, finally. thank you, as always, for the love and support. i am forever grateful. -jaye