|
|
Post by Fina on Mar 7, 2023 7:44:31 GMT -6
Our trilogy begins with a side story about Nero and his service to the Ash Demon army...
|
|
|
|
Post by Kix on Mar 8, 2023 9:55:50 GMT -6
In the alpine Oblarian forest, a centuria bustled about to establish a camp filled with beige and black tents. Canvas and banners rose just the day’s light dimmed and evening settled in. Smoke rose into the thin air from campfires and torches lit pathways as the camp quieted. Lamps flickered to life as one by one the soldiers turned in for the night.
The night’s watch drew their lots and maintained patrols to monitor this foreign area. These brave soldiers would safeguard the camp against emanate threat or discovery. It would be imperative to their mission’s success that this centuria be undetected. After all, the nation of Eglor was a peaceful one which prided itself in maintaining a good standing with its neighboring countries. The accidental discovery of a military encampment, this close to the border no less, would call into question its intentions. There was no political agenda at work here, however, for these soldiers did not serve the crown. This centuria had a higher calling than to do the bidding of kings..
Situated in the heart of the camp, a large tent rose to stand out among the rest. The canvas was a dark charcoal gray color edged with a brilliant golden trim and black stitching. A tent this grand surely belonged to a soldier of importance compared to the rest. As it would turn out this tent would house the centuria’s commander: Nero Marcellus.
Commander Nero was a soldier with some reputation. Among the Ash Demons, he was the oldest and longest serving to date. After being converted in 115 AD, Nero had earned his laurels and rose gradually through the ranks. His reputation would not proceed him, however, as the Ash Demons ensured there were never witnesses to his tale. No whispered to under, nor songs sung, no mention of the fierce commander in stories.. The right-hand of the Ashen council was as good as a ghost. Were the circumstances different, Nero certainly would prove worthy of the notoriety. He was steadfast, calculated, and intimidating in the fulfillment of his service to the Ashen council. All in all, he cut an imposing figure and would not be the type of man to cross..
This evening, as the full moon journeyed across the star-filled sky, Nero himself faced a familiar foe: sleep. No dreams would bless him this evening, so instead.. An old memory haunted him.
Images came to Nero in fragments.. Brilliant sunlight glistened on the Mediterranean sea, the ear piercing shriek of a woman. The brutal crack of a whip followed by the sting as it bit into flesh. A limp body collapsed on the stones in a dark alleyway. A dark figure approached with a hand outstretched and a sinister grin. The glow of flames as the blaze swallowed the city, the screams and cries of the people rising into the night’s sky with the smoke.
As Nero endured this torment, a quiet feminine figure slipped into the tent from the night. For a moment, the woman lingered by the door to observe as Nero slept in his bed of coals. She hesitated, as she reconsidered disturbing him from what sleep he could muster. The matter must have been one of importance, however, for soon she cleared her throat loudly.
Snapping awake, Nero’s grip pulled the hilt of a red hot dagger free to brandish against his assassin in the shadows. Even though the dagger was clearly glowing orange with heat, it didn't seem to phase Nero at all as he held it within his steadfast grip.
"My apologies, Commander..." Called the woman's voice from the corner of the tent. "I bring good news."
Losing a sighing, Nero lowered his dagger as recognition settled in. "Misaki." He acknowledged, "This better be important." He ground out with a huff as he returned his dagger to the coals beneath him.
"Yes, sir. We have located the target.” Misaki began, “The woman is staying just outside of the village, northeast of here. We can plan and strategize at first light.” She said. “Would you like me to dispatch a scout to perform reconnaissance now?" Misaki asked, taking a few steps towards him as he stood up.
Nero contemplated his answer for a moment as he brushed a few bits of coal off of his bare chest. "No,” He decided, “Let the troops rest for now. We've had a long day of travel and I want them fresh before we begin watch. The counsel claims this one the most powerful that they have encountered yet, so we have no idea what she is capable of." He said, bending from the waist to brush more coal from his pajama pants.
"Very well, sir. I will gather and send them out first thing tomorrow..." Misaki acknowledged, her words trailing off a bit as he brushed his pants off. Contemplation danced over her eyes for a brief moment as he stood. She softly bit her lower lip as her gaze appraised him. She pressed herself forward with a cautious, but bold confidence. "Nero, have you... Given any more thought to-"
"No. The answer is still no Misaki." He stated curtly, cutting her off in the process. Crossing his arms across his chest, he radiated conviction and authority.
Her stride drawing up short, Misaki fought not to be crestfallen before her frustration built. "You won’t reconsider? You know that you are the only one I can come to. Nobody else is ranked higher than me." She pleaded, pressing forward again, this time a little quicker. "Please.. If not for me, then at least do so for the greater good. We would go down in history..."
"I don't give a damn about going down in history." Nero bit back with a scuff as he regarded Misaki. She casually rounded him to begin massaging his shoulders and neck.
"Nero, it's been so long since we..." She cooed, trailing off as she sashayed around to stand before him. Nero dropped his arms down to his sides as she wrapped hers around his neck."At least, let's blow off some steam." She suggested, caressing his cheek affectionately. "I will accept you in whatever capacity you wish to give me." She promised. His resolve softened as he sighed heavily and took her waist.
"Very well. Only to blow off steam, nothing more will come of this." He yielded, staring her straight in the eye. "I will not be swayed to change my mind on the subject."
His callous words cut like a knife in Misaki's chest, but she simply nodded. This dalliance would be enough for now, but she resolved to change his mind one day. She was not ready to give up on their future together. Standing on her tip-toes, she leaned into him as he met her halfway, leaning down a bit as she captured his lips with her own.
~*~*~*~ THE NEXT DAY ~*~*~*~
Come morning, Nero emerged from his tent ready and dressed to begin the day. His silver gaze scanned the camp before searching out Misaki, engaged in a discussion with a group of soldiers nearby. "Legate Amana." He called, motioning her over. Called to attention, she and the group saluted promptly. "Commander Marcellus." She stated in return. "Sir, allow me a moment to finish giving orders." Nero acknowledged her with a nod and waited for her to report to him.
Once she was done, Misaki strode over to meet her commander. "May we speak in private, sir?" She requested, motioning into his tent. With space at a premium, his personal tent doubled as their command center. Nodding, Nero turned to reenter his tent, holding one of the flaps open for Misaki.
Immediately, Misaki breezed past him to bee-line for the large map table set up in the middle. "The scouts came back with news. They spotted Serephina in the target village.” She reported, "I'm afraid she is likely here for the same mark. We have to play this carefully now." She said, launching into a strategy meeting with Nero. Together, they discussed how they would handle the current situation safely and securely. As they worked, Nero moved various pieces around on the map table as they planned...
|
|
|
|
Post by Fina on Mar 10, 2023 9:08:07 GMT -6
Taking a knee in the forest loam, the hooded ranger extended her gloved hand to lightly trace the pattern of tracks marking the path. The sun was well on the way to setting through the canopy overhead, but even in the dim her keen gaze could make out the formation.
Serephina sighed as she stood and brushed the damp soil from the knee of her pants. She’d noted a toe kick here from a boot, hoof prints there, and twigs snapped. The signs were a tell tale.. It seemed the very same whispers and rumors she chased had brought the Ashen north of Eglor too. Timing would be of the essence if she was to have any chance now..
Pivoting on her heel, urgency would hasten Serephina’s steps back to her horse nearby. She slid her foot into the stirrup of her dun mare’s saddle before she gripped the horn. She then pulled herself up, swung her leg over, and seated herself fully in the saddle. She’d wager she wasn’t far behind the army, maybe a few hours yet.. She gently patted her horse as she took up the reins in her other hand. She urged the mare forward on the path ahead in a confident trot. Nightfall would soon force her to make camp, but not before she closed the distance first.
After some careful scouting, Serephina determined the Ashen likely encamped further north of the rural village. As curious as she was though she wouldn’t risk discovery and venture too close.. Instead, she put their tracks behind her and detoured east. She would make her camp on the far side of the village for the night, off where demon scouting parties seemed less likely.
Upon finding a suitable location, Serephina unpacked her horse and set about setting up her camp. In good time, she had her tent up and was roaming about collecting firewood. She started digging a hole down a foot before tunneling out a vent. Once upon a time, a wise man had taught her to burrow into the earth like this. This arrangement would hide the light of her campfire and reveal nothing, if she ever found herself in enemy territory.. She’d soon have her meal and find her bed roll for the night.
At first light, Serephina rose to greet another day. The night had treated her well and she was better rested for the journey ahead. This morning, she had to make for the village to begin her search. If the rumors were true, she was looking for another woman.. It was imperative she find her and get her to safety before the Ashen ferreted her out. Breaking down camp always seemed to take longer, however.. It would be mid morning by the time she kicked dirt over her fire and took to her horse.
Emerging from the forest, Serephina met up with the main road with her wits about her. She did not doubt the roads were being watched, but it was a risk she was willing to accept. In these circumstances, this could make the difference between a rescue mission and an abduction. As she approached the outskirts of the village, she felt the weight of staring eyes. She dismounted her horse then and led her mare on foot.
|
|
|
|
Post by Kix on Mar 18, 2023 21:48:46 GMT -6
Satisfied with their plan of action, Nero glanced up from the map table to Misaki with a decisive nod. “This is the best we can do in these circumstances, Legate. Give the orders and let’s move quickly.” He commanded, his tone stern. “Time is of the essence. I don’t want Serephina to influence the target’s decision.” He said, straightening himself back into an upright position. “Dismissed.” Saluting Nero, Misaki quickly left his tent to dispatch the latest orders to the troops. Sighing, Nero put two fingers to the bridge of his nose and squeezed his eyes shut in frustration. He had hoped that Serephina wouldn’t find out about their target. Or at the very least, not until it was too late. Knowing he had no time to waste though, he quickly turned to the wooden chest at the foot of his bed and flipped it open. Quickly he exchanged his armor for the casual attire seen of the denizens. He then turned to collect his sword from where it rested against the heavy armor stand. Sheathed his blade in the scabbard on his left side, he swiftly made his way out of his tent. He would stride across the encampment, destined for the human village.
Once on the edge of camp, Nero nodded to a young recruit as he saluted him. The recruit readied his horse before offering the stoic commander the reins. Taking the reins in hand, Nero climbed onto the horse and sat on the saddle in one fluid motion. A glance over his shoulder and he saw Misaki mounted with a Centurion named Fenrik on her heels. Both were dressed down as well, opting for casual wear to help them blend in. “We need to move fast, but once the village comes into view, slow to a trot. We don’t want to spook anyone into thinking that we are raiders or on the run from something.” He instructed both before turning his attention upon Fenrik. “You’ll approach from the other side of town. Serephina was seen entering from the east. Keep your head on a swivel, but try not to draw your sword.” Nero ordered. Once the two nodded to him, he gently kicked his heels into the horse’s sides, urging it forward.
The journey didn’t take the trio long and soon the human village came into sight. Slowing to a trot, the three split up at the fork in the road leading down separate paths to the village. As Nero and Misaki approached the edge of the village, they kept their eyes on the road, trying to appear as casual as possible. The two would not escape making the notice of the villagers for long, however, and soon stares followed as they trotted past. To ease suspicions, they downplayed the mission’s urgency to appear more like two wayfaring adventurers.
Spotting an elderly woman carrying a basket of carrots on the side of the road, Misaki smiled to look as approachable as she could and took point. Stopping her horse, Nero followed suit shortly after, seeming to wonder why the detour. “Begging your pardon, milady, but might I ask where you got those delicious looking carrots from?” She asked, embracing her natural charisma. “We have a brace of coneys to stew for supper, but we need more supplies..” She said sweetly. Mumbling quietly in response, the old lady could barely be heard by Nero, but he followed her finger as she pointed off into the distance. There was a hut not far off, situated on the edge of a tilled field. “Thank you so much!” Misaki replied, turning back to Nero with a gentle smile still. Urging the horses forward once more, the two approached the farm, not wishing to draw any more attention to themselves than they already had.
|
|
|
|
Post by Fina on Mar 21, 2023 7:36:21 GMT -6
Following the quaint dirt road, compacted down over years of foot traffic, Serephina kept her gaze modest as she led her mare along. Even as she passed the fallow field, she couldn’t shake the weight of the stares which tracked her. At first, she thought the cause was a wariness towards strangers.. It was a rational explanation as not many had the means for travel between the settlements as she did, yet alone without a chaperone. Her skill set afforded her a merchant’s life, however, which had its advantages..
As she approached the blacksmith, the ring of hammer striking metal rendered the quiet morning hush. The glow of the forge was bright as the master smith tutored his young apprentice. On a long table, the shop displayed the usual wares: nails, locks, horseshoes.. Her brow furrowed as another item caught her eye as she ventured near. Beautifully crafted swords, daggers, axes and shields? Weaponry was an expensive pursuit, both to craft and to purchase. What would a village like this, full of farms and grain, have for arms..? “Good morn, milady.” Bid the young boy on the other side of the table, breaking her away from this mystery. “What brings you in?” Finding her wits, Serephina smiled kindly at the youth. “My horse threw a shoe and it’ll need to be repaired..” She explained, “And I have goods to take to market. Could you help me?” She asked. With some negotiation and haggling, she was soon leaving her mare in the care of the blacksmith. She shouldered her satchel as she set out to find the market with the directions the boy provided.
Compact earthen roads turned to the paved stone of the Roman’s as Serephina made her way west, across the village. She gave the village church a wide berth as she hustled toward the green and the market beyond. This market, amidst the townfolk, is where she’d roll up her sleeves and work her best magic.
In her own charismatic way Serephina would barter and bribe with her salves, tinctures, and extracts. She pursued information primarily and until she had her course set then she switched tactics. She would seek to safeguard her investment, but first she needed a trustworthy candidate. A quick sweep of the market yielded a few hands willing to help! For the right price, of course.
Serephina chuckled good naturally with a sweet elderly woman. “Remember, apply this to the ache twice a day.” She bid, “Take care, milady.” She added, seeing the sagely woman off with her basket of delicious looking carrots. She was a delight and so hardworking for her family.. That salve was a fair price and would surely do wonders for the hip she favored.
Her plans now carefully laid, Serephina hitched her light satchel higher onto her shoulder and left the market behind. She journeyed her way northwest towards where the mill stood tall in the distance. The word was her “niece” held the family homestead just over the rise.
|
|
|
|
Post by Fina on Apr 6, 2023 16:52:53 GMT -6
To the southwest of the village, the residing lord tasked his loyal serfs to grow the crops to sustain the region. Tall fields of corn and wheat swayed in the morning sunlight, the orchards were heavy with a bumper yield of fruit, and on the hilltop rise stood the mill gently oscillating. This was a peaceful provincial life..
Reaching into the bucket, Velanna took a handful of corn feed as the flock rushed in. The barnevelder hens clucked at her loudly, eager for their breakfast. She broadcasted the grain across the chicken yard evenly before stifling a yawn. Another restless night had left her exhausted before the day even began.
The farm life waited for no one, however, and so Velanna dispersed the remaining grain and went on to tend to her chores. The familiar routine distracted her from her troubles as hustled about the homestead. She saw to the needs of the livestock and drew water for the manor’s well before turning to tend the fields this morning.
With a basket in arm, Velanna joined her siblings to tend the fields. While she was the eldest, it took many hands to successfully manage their family’s farm. In the field, she checked on their crop of wheat destined for the mill later this season. She then walked the homestead’s small orchard, inspecting the growth. It might be early spring, but it seemed the fruit trees were to bloom nicely this season. And just in time too! The days were warming and soon the bee colonies housed in their apiary would emerge from hibernation.
Seeing that all was well in the fields, the Oryn sisters gathered to tend to the house’s gardens. There was tilling to be done while Velanna planted new seed in the loam. As she selected a seed, Velanna felt her conscious mind waiver. Kneeling there in the garden, she blinked slowly to clear the wave of disorientation. Instead, the dizziness mounted and soon had her furrowing her brow. Her breakfast soured in her stomach as she gently pinched the bridge of her nose.
Experience taught Valenna to concentrate on her breathing, in through her nose and out through her mouth, to stead herself. Dimly, she registered someone calling her name as finally the vision seized her.. The world tilted on its axis as she collapsed to the ground. Her shoulder jostled as panic made her name sound shrill in her ears.. It was then that another hand intervened. A firm voice calmed and gave directions before she felt strangely buoyant. Her eyes rolled, giving her the glimpse of crimson hair and strange green eyes, before her vision went dark.
|
|
|
|
Post by Kix on Apr 20, 2023 12:53:32 GMT -6
After thanking the old woman, Misaki turned back to Nero with a smile. “It seems we’re in luck, daarin.” She said sweetly and submissively. Her words and tone made Nero’s skin prickle. He understood that they were supposed to be undercover, but he still didn’t like the idea of pretending to be man and wife. Plus, the pet name in her native tongue was unnecessary.
Puffing up his chest a bit, Nero sat up taller on his horse, urging the beast to take a few steps closer to Misaki. As he approached, he lowered his gaze on her. “You shouldn’t be talking to strangers, cor meum.” He chastised, adding a pet name of his own for good measure. Misaki immediately acted coy and nodded. Nero took a moment to scan the nearby buildings before pointing to one. “Looks like they have a stable just on the other side of the village green. We can take a look at the market after we take the horses to rest.” He offered, giving Misaki a small smile. “Perhaps we can find you something nice.”
Walking the horses to the stable, Nero hopped off his first before turning to help Misaki from hers. “Good morrow, m’lord. Two for the stable?” Asked a small voice from behind him. Turning around, Nero spotted the young boy addressing him. “Yes. How much for half a day?” He inquired in response.
“Two shillings each.”
“Very well.” Nero said, reaching under his black cloak and into a coin purse tied to his belt. “Four shillings.” He finished, handing the coins to the boy.
“Thank you m’lord! We will take great care of them.” He said, flashing Nero a bright smile before taking the reins of the horses in each hand and leading them both inside.
Turning back to Misaki, Nero gave her a smile and offered his arm to her. “Shall we go take a look at the market now?” Misaki nodded and they set off deeper into town to find the stall the old woman had mentioned.
When they got to the market however, neither Nero nor Misaki could find the stall the woman had described. All of the fresh produce stalls were being operated by men, not women. Scanning the crowd, Nero sighed lightly before leaning down to whisper to Misaki. “Why do I get the feeling we’ve been tricked?” He hissed. “Come on. Let's start fishing for information… Again.” Immediately, the two of them broke apart and began working the crowd in their own ways, asking around about their 'cousin' Velanna.
|
|
|
|
Post by Fina on Apr 26, 2023 12:43:56 GMT -6
The morning sunlight glinted upon the midnight black feathers of the raven. The bird stood vigilant upon the thatched roof, overlooking the heart of the market. The market was a hub of activity in these human villages, so it was an obvious location to place a stake out!
Keen azure eyes searched the milling population of villagers out to complete their morning errands. Her vigilance would be rewarded for soon she spied a couple entering the market. If she were able, the raven would have snorted. It was plain to see that a covert approach, in this setting, was not a strength for Nero. Even walking arm in arm couldn’t hide his stiff, awkward posture.. He was best suited for the battlefield, she decided. His companion, however, was of some interest. Her tactic showed potential, at least.. She’d also never seen a female Ashen before.
The raven observed unobtrusively as the two Ashen feigned browsing the stalls and the offered wares. Their route was planned, precise, and thorough.. She could appreciate that. Soon the pair had sufficiently covered all that the market had to offer and had nothing to show for it but disappointment. It was with a measure of divine satisfaction that she watched as Nero regrouped. Her Magnus was a clever woman to have laid these contingency plans. These Ashen would be chasing their tails for a while yet..
With a beat of her wings, the raven took to the air to go report her findings. She oriented herself to the northwest of the village, towards the mill in the distance. Like a sailor’s compass, her bond forged with Serephina would always guide her true.
The raven crossed over houses and rolling fields of grain before meeting up with the rural road. As she flew onward she noticed a lone traveler on the path ahead astride his horse. He didn’t look like a villager.. Few would bother making the journey to town with a horse and he traveled too light to be a brave adventurer. The raven gave a cracking caw as she swooped down upon the man. She didn’t need to get too close to make him as another one of Nero’s soldiers. She could practically feel the regimented aura, that over inflated sense of importance, and he was closing in on the farm just ahead.. The raven would redouble her efforts to head him off and deliver notice to her Magnus.
|
|
