Raising the young by destroying the old.

It was just her luck to have to heal the bite scar on her shoulder that as per dragon custom marked her as a claimed female. The bad luck part was the part where her mate up and left her. It was humiliating and an insult. Dragons typically mated for life. If either mate left the other they were marked for death by the dragon community. And after all she had done for him. Bringing him into dragon society and teaching him their ways. He always was more partial to him human side though even after he hadn't had an ounce of human blood left in him. And if all that wasn't enough he unknowingly left her with a parting gift. He marked her, impregnated her, and then left. Astral wanted to make sure her children didn't suffer the same fate as herself and it seemed as if the missing father part of the equation was already going to be a thing. It was harder than she thought it was going to be though. Having gone through it all herself she thought raising a hatchling would be easy. The moment Lexia was born though Astral knew that was not going to be the case. Astral had came out in an egg but was born appearing completely human. Lexia on the other hand came out with a tail and wings already equipped. She wasn't going to make the same mistakes as her mother and was going to make sure her daughter was raised properly. For the most Astral remained in her hybrid form while raising her daughter. Her daughter was perfectly aware that Astral was in fact a full dragon and occasional she was in it. Astral had made sure to tell her all about how their species worked and that once she hit puberty the dragon part of her would begin taking over. Although Lexia took to magic naturally as a proper dragon should her magical energy was tiny for how much dragon she was born with. Astral would compare her magic pool to that of a human. Astral was for the most part proud she gave her daughter a proper upbringing some cracks were beginning to show in her parenting. Astral had done all she could to warn Lexia about the dangers of the Megalo natives and how evil they were. Whenever they went to dragon meetings this was always reinforced by those there. Lexia was so innocent and trusting though it concerned Astral.

Her thoughts drifting back to the present Astral looked behind her to make sure her daughter was keeping up alright. Lexia was still building stamina when it came to flying long distances. Looking back forward the magnificent city of Dragcnois was coming into view. Lexia was only a few years away from when Astral had started puberty. Dragons however aged slower and Lexia had more dragon in her than Astral did so she didn't know if they were going to be similar. It didn't hurt to be prepared though. Ever since she found out she was pregnant Astral put her world conquering plans on hold. However Lexia was getting older and the progress Astral had made with assassinating leaders and spreading her influence was beginning to really slip. A lot happened in the world of megalonians in those short years. At Lexia's age most dragons could fend for themselves but Lexia wasn't a full dragon. Either way Astral wanted to regain ground and make sure her daughter was prepared. This was why she was bringing her to Draconis. Normally she wasn't suppose to touch the grand city. It was off limits but Astral didn't dare take her daughter out of the safety of Iota. That meant Dracnois was the only place around where Astral could get some work done.

Astral landed on one of the great towers that was unique to Dragconis and waited for her daughter to catch up. In the mean time she surveyed the ground below analyzing what was both the most safe and most productive street below. There were such a diversity of races all moving around like a chaotic current of water. It was by far the most diverse location in the world. It was day time so Astral had to be sure to keep herself only barely peering over the edge of the roof lest her eye attracting black scales give her away. Once her daughter arrived she'd give her the run down of what she expected. "You see that dark ally over there with the sleeping bums." Astral just as much asked her daughter as stated it while pointing. "We are going to fly down there and take human form. I want you to get social just ask around and satisfy the curiosity I know you'll have even if it gets hidden behind anxiety. The first step to toppling any empire is to gather information. I'll teach you more about that for later but for now just focus on getting use to the crowd. If you ever feel uncomfortable just come back to me, but your not allowed to stay by me indefinitely. I'm going to be talking around too. Don't ever lose sight of me and don't ever follow anyone anywhere. Believe me when I say anyone one of those people down there would jump at the opportunity to capture you if they knew you had dragon blood and thought they could pull it off." With that Astral would glide down temporarily using magic to render the two dragon human hybrids invisible until they touched ground and nobody was looking. The only people there was a sleeping homeless female Lamia and an unconscious drunk middle aged human male. Astral then transformed herself into a human of equal eight. Her eyes remained just as bright green and the dark black hair on her head remained just as it had in her hybrid form. Now she had pale white skin though and adorned herself with black skinny jeans and a black shirt speckled with almost unnoticeable diamonds. It was wealthy clothing only identifiable by those with the money to afford it, the perfect attire for what she had planned. Once Lexia was all set and any inhibitions squared away she'd lead her daughter out into the busy street keeping her tucked with one hand against her side. She'd let her daughter get accustom to it before encouraging her to step away.

Lexia's wings ached, the muscles burning as she half struggled to keep up with her mother. Astral was always an agile and quick flyer, her movements being much more graceful than her daughter. The slightly oversized wings kept beating hard as she followed, the forest below her slowly turning more and more scarce. Greens which were gentle on her eyes turned into a more harsh and rugged grounds, the brown overshooting whatever greenery there was. However, she tried her best not to be dismayed as her mother was giving her a rather large surprise. She had heard whispers from passing humanoid creatures about the great city and her heart was fluttering in her throat from nerves.

Nerves or excitement, Lexia wasn't able to tell.

Even though she had a slight anxiety building in her, nothing would be able to quench her curiosity as to where they were going. The grand spires of the Dragcnois pierced into the sky, the magnificent city standing out brightly, all the area around it seemed to be incredibly bland and dull compared to its magnificence. Lexia faltered for a few moments when she had first seen it, but as time went on and the city grew closer, she grew more accustomed to the buildup of excitement in her chest. It was incredibly rare for Astral to take her into the cities, but this often meant that she had the time to try and practice her human form.

Lexia followed suit, landing a few meters behind Astral on the tower. Instantly, she furled her wings next to her, skittering the meters to her mother. As Astral indicated the alleyway, Lexias eyes quickly sought out what she was explaining, barely peaking over the edge as she searched. After finding it, she pulled away from the edge and nodded, "I do." Lexia responded rather quietly, trying not to draw attention to them. As she instructed her as to what to do, she slowly nodded, following Astral again as they both silently glided down to the city. Lexia was thankful for her mothers invisibility magic, no one would be able to pick up the two dragons descent. As soon as her feet touched the cold ground, Lexia would cast the spell over herself, her wings and tails vanishing. She wore a rather basic jeans and purple shirt.

The unconscious... Or sleeping forms would make Lexia curious for a few moments and she took a step forward to look at them a little closer. However, the rather weird Lamia made her a little too nervous to continue her investigation and she quickly returned to Astrals side.

Her eyes glanced around at the busy streets and she recoiled a little from joining the crowds, "I understand what you were saying earlier, Mum, but is there another way to do this? Or do we need to speak with all of the common people?" Lexia asked nervously, before almost hugging into Astral. It almost seemed that she could sense her fear as she felt her mothers arm wrap around her.

With a nervous sigh, Lexia tucked a crimson thread of hair behind her ear. Either it was now or never. She would stay by her mothers side as they walked through the streets. The level of noise was foreign to her ears, almost causing her to flinch. After a small length of time, she managed to be acquainted with the noises once again and she slowly broke away from Astral. She glanced around them, making sure that no one would be within hearing range of what she would ask next. "What sorts of things should you aim to find out, Mum?" She said, smiling up to her, acting as if Astral had said something to her while she was next to her.

What Lexia had said wasn't something that she wanted others to overhear at all and when she had that question answered, Lexia would slowly wander around a little, watching others for a chance to speak to them.

The day seemed sunny, warm with a cool air to it. The city was bustling with business and many people passed me by. For a guy like me its the usual, meeting people everyday and going places which is something I always did. It was constant moving, exhausting but it was something to do, that and expanding my magic. To do so I just simply need someone to teach me, thats easy enough, however its how much mana the magic takes in thats tricky. Most people read from books or scrolls, some memorize tye spells and use it that way. Witches and warlocks can do the same, with the exception that they tie themselves to darker or black magics, using blood, hair, or anything from a body to inflict diseases and such.

As I walked down the busy street people moved away from me, seeing a tall ajd buff hooded figure walking in your path is probably not something you wouldn't mess with, not that I would beat anyone up, compared to most people I was actually a humble man, kind and patient. However my appearance mixed with the three blades I had sheathex on my body didn't help matters. I moved about, tempted to pull my hood down due to the rising heat, but I didn't want to attract any attention. Damn you sun.

I went into a dark alleyway, taking my hood off as I felt the cool breeze greet my face in the shade. I had fairly pale skin, not deathly though (similar to Irish) which already complemented my "reaper" look. By the gods, I may not have a scythe or a death touch, but a bum looked at me and stumbled to his feet and took off. How wanderful, I portrayed as intimidating and scary. However it didn't top my two nicknames, Voltumna, the name I took from my father, and the Wanderer which I was famously kniwn as.

Many people tend to greet me and ask about my journies as I told of the Tempest Wars and so on so forth. There was always a lesson about each story, like the skirmishes of tye Dead Bridge, in which you never underestimate your foe or even let down your guard. Guess who learned that the hard way? Yours trully.
However I didn't stay too long as people have attempted to rob me or hire me as a mercenary. Each time I put them down gently, and sometimes, they'd live without a limb or two the next day.
A group of bums came diwn the alley, one pointing at me to whom I assumed was tye one from earlier. They ran toward me, all but one stopping to a halt six feet front of me, and that one swung a fist at me only to meet a painful boot kick a soft spot below. He fell to the ground ajd I backed away, the leader, the one whi stepped up spoke in a thick Irish accent, something I was used to.

"Ye better hand over the blades lad, or else we'll have a scuffle." The leader was a lanky fellow, not much muscle.
"I promise you that is something I wish to avoid," I put my hands up, showing I wasn't a threat, "Im just a traveler, no need to be hostile."
"Neigh, we wish for trouble lad, hand over those swords and we'll let you live... Perhaps." The leader spoke as his goons surrounded me, forming a circle with wood and clubs and knives. I wasn't intimidated as all, and when I shown I wasn't even afraid let alone concerned the leader shook his head. The signal Im guessing.

The first bum came from behind with his large club, I dismissed it by grabbing out the Warden from its sheath and slicing through the wooden hilt, and the mans fingers. Another pair attempted to attack, one coming in for a punch and another fir a low blow to my knees with hus club. I sliced up with the katana at the punch, cutting the mans hand in half whilst I took a step back, making the second bum miss only to be greeted to a kick to the face. Ah, are those teeth on thr ground?

The leader began to grimace at the sight, three of tye bums backing away as they saw what happened to their buddies. I looked at him, spinning the blade in me hand once I swung it to the side, most tye blood splattering on the ground in a string. I spoke up once more as I put the blafe away, "Im warning you now. Any further and you won't be walking or grabbing anything fir the rest of your life."
I spoke in a calm and stern tone, jerking my head to the fallen fellows who wasnt having a goof time. He gritted his teeth, but it was evident that he came to realize he would have a better chance at killing a mouse than myself.

"Then so be it! But remember lad, we have connections, ones yiu can't escape." The Irish man spoke before the goons gathered abd took off, taking their wounded. I didn't care for their lives, hiwever keeping promises to never kill again was difficult, if not for that those men would have been easily dispatched.
I walked out of the alleyway, seei g no one saw my actions or thry just didn't care.

Emrys patrolled the streets of Draconis on horseback. It was one of his many duties as a Laurel Knight, one of the few he actually enjoyed. Riding around, making sure no laws were being broken, the young half-elf felt like the most important person in the whole city. Young boys looked up to him, pretended that they were Knights themselves running off on some grand adventure. Women made a point of remembering which days Emrys was going to be patrolling their street, that they might set aside some time to make themselves look even nicer than usual. Most gave him baked goods. Men envied him, of course but some, like their young sons, aspired to be--if not a Knight--someone equally as great and loved by all.

On his back, Emrys carried his Dragon scale shield. He took it everywhere just in case he ran into one--not that he ever had. But it was also good against the odd sorcerer who liked to throw fireballs at people. Now to fight a Dragon was to say you were bored with being a living creature and would much prefer to be its plaything, eventual meal, and then the newest addition to the fossil record. Somehow, this didn't deter one from dreaming of fighting the most terrifying creature on the planet and perhaps killing it... or at least--and more reasonably--dying a noble death, passing into legend as one of the most brave--and agruably most stupid--people ever to live. Emrys had such a dream.

Oh, he had no wish to die, miind you. He wanted to be known as the man who fought a Dragon and survived. But for now a dream is all it would be. Today, Emrys was patrolling the poorer part of the city, where the most trouble happened. So far, he had dealt with a group of boys who'd stolen some treats from a bakery. Ususally Emrys would have punished them for stealing, but today he let them slide because they were rather thin and could use some fattening sweets. As he watched them run off, a young girlcame up and tugged on his pant leg. "Mister Knight, come help! My papa is being robbed!" And then she ran back the way she came. Emrys followed, glad he was on horseback; the little girl was so small, he would have lost her in the crowd otherwise.

As I walked down the poorer section of the city I noticed something rather peculiar. Getting closer I soon saw this city had an artifact shop, something I would like to visit now to see if they had any spell books. If they did I would be spending weeks or maybe months to perfect what I read and in the end I could become more potential in magic boundaries. It was clear I didnt waste time since people were being saw I was coming their direction and stepped to the side. Damn, whats wrong with them? They're more concerned about me than a goblin running around gutting people.

However as I reached the shop there was a closed sign on the door. If only I hadn't been stopped by those goons in the alley I might have made it here to browse on time. Oh well, surely there was another shop about. As I walked through the busy crowd I spotted a knight on a horse in which I nearly shrugged off, but what caught my attention was the shield. A scaled shield to be exact. I began to walk towards the knight and ask him about the shield when a girl spoke to him first. All I got from her was "papa" and "rob." As they took off the thought ran in my head if those same bums from earlier didnt learn their lesson. Dumbasses.

The thought of cutting the legs of hobos off was quite pleasing, they'd never rob, or walk to do something similar which saved some trouble in the future. I wasn't that dark though, save for the fact I followed the knight on his horse. He wasn't too hard to track at all, just follow a horse with a man atop. This reminded me of my first mission during my teenage years;
We ran through the forest of trees, staying along the edge so not to be spotted. Once we were in an uncivilized area the squad attacked hard, taking out the guards swiftly while I gave the killing blow to the general. We came back with not just a job successful but with plans our enemies had been delivering.

"Not necessarily all of them. Unless that's what it takes to get you comfortable." Astral answered before they had walked into the busy streets. Once in the streets it took a little bit for her daughter to grow accustomed and weather to stall or out of genuine curiosity she asked a question in whisper so quiet that only a creature with sensitive ears standing right next to them could have understood or even noticed something was being said. "That is awfully complicated and I'll teach you it later. For now just pretend you are new to the city having just arrived from a ship that departed from Brysur. That'll give you the excuse to learn anything you want about the city that is common knowledge. But if you want an example of the more complicated stuff that you shouldn't be worrying about yet have a look over there." Astral said pointing to a big buff guy with pale features that had recently exited a dark ally. Running from him were some rather seriously injured bums. "One of three things just happened. Either he is the knight in shining armor type that just came to someone's rescue, he got jumped and they attempted to rob him, or he's out bullying bums for fun. He isn't giving chase though so it is less likely he is the knight in shining armor.. Which is a shame they are the best. His almost sickly features tells me that is not him though. If he is defending himself we can't really draw a conclusion. If he's out doing it for fun then he is not someone who will give information without a hassle that isn't worth it and just being in his presence makes you a possible target of his violence. You don't want to go anywhere near someone like that unless you are sure you could kill them with ease. And one day in the near future you'll be able too soon as you know what starts taking over." By the time Astral finished the man she was referring to began following some knight who had recently showed up. She noticed said knight had a dragon scaled shield. She had to repress a growl at that sight. If she wasn't suppose to be watching her daughter she'd hunt him down just for having that. He'd better thank whatever gods he worshiped.

As Lexia began getting more comfortable moving about Astral would do a little digging of her own. She already knew a lot about the city but she hadn't been here at all since getting pregnant. She needed to catch up on current events. Nearby within sight of Lexia there were a couple of ladies working a rather low traffic high priced jewelry stand. They were gossiping with each other while waiting for their next rare customer. Astral figured she could get what she needed out of them. While she did this she tried to keep an eye on her daughter. The two ladies noticed this and thought she was adorable. It actually helped. Astral had never considered how having her daughter around would effect the interactions she had. She'd have to keep that in consideration for the future.

Lexia withheld humming as she listened to Astral, her eyes flicking back to the man who had come free from the alleyway. What her mother had said intrigued her. You could tell those three things, instantly, just by one event? That very thought baffled and amazed her as she didn't think that people could be judged and their personality discerned so easily. Lex looked back up to her mother, her eyes almost sparkling in awe. To come to such a swift conclusion, to know how the beings around here could work so easily... Her mum really was amazing! Lexia thought of what her mother had said earlier, about taking the act of being a traveller from Brysur... She was sure that she could do that, AND find some useful things out! While Astral still spoke, a rather odd scent caught her nose and Lex hesitated for a few moments, her eyes darting across the grounds to see what it was.

The sight of a dragon scale shield chilled Lexia to the bone. But seeing him run off... Maybe he was like a hero type her mum talked about! But if that were true... Why did he hunt her kind?

After she had finished speaking, Lex shook off the sudden uncertainty that settled on her like a blanket and she tucked the information away at the back of her mind. That's how dragons were treated? They were hunted just to be strung over a circle? She shook her head a little. Trying to clear it. It didn't take too long for her to adopt the innocent travellers mindset like her mother had suggested and she slowly wandered off. She genuinely was curious about the place and she wandered over to the most open person she could find, keeping her mother within eyesight. Lexia nervously tugged on their shirt, before asking them where the nearest inn was. Depending on the way the man answered the question depended on how many more things she would ask, if any.

He was less than happy to try and help her, simply telling her to bugger off. She lowered her head, mumbled an apology, before wandering over to another group. This time, they were females, and much more readily to talk. They asked where her mother was straight away, and Lex gestured to the group of ladies near the stand. She didn't want to give away exactly who her mother was, just in case the people she was speaking to would try anything. Thankfully, they didn't. She spent a little while discussing the layout of the city, explaining that the two were visiting from Byrsur and Lex had no idea where anything was. The group happily talked to her about where they were, the layouts, the guards to talk to, places to avoid, specific people that they didn't fancy and the dragon hunters that they seemed to love and adore speaking about. Very quickly, she felt uncomfortable, but not once did she show it. She thanked the ladies for their help before wandering away to speak to another man, who was actually happy to speak with her this time. Until her mother called her back, Lexia would stay within eyesight and just try and speak with people around them, sometimes saying that she was lost, or make an introductory statement like 'I love the coat!' and other things like that.

The little girl, no more than two feet tall in world full of people who were basically giants by comparison, was quite good at navigating through such a world. She weaved between people, crawled between legs, clambered onto backs until water puddles--which wasn't always water--were no longer a threat. Yes, the little girl knew how to get from place to place without getting a smudge, a smear, or even a drop of dirt on her clothing; ironic given she was the daughter of a blacksmith. It didn't take her long at all to lead the Laurel Knight to her home. Outside the blacksmith's shop, the girl's father tried to fight off a couple of thieves keen on taking his wares for themselves. One would think a man who forged weapons might know how to use them... but as this was not the case, he had sent his young child for help.

Emrys spotted the struggle and picked up his dragon scale shield. One of the men was running off with an armful of everything he could carry. It was at this one Emrys threw his shield after getting passersby to move. The shield hit the man right at the back of the head--an incredibly lucky shot considering that wasn't where the half-elf was aiming-- and caused him to drop his loot as he fell. Confident the man wasn't going anywhere anytime soon, Emrys dismounted, going over to the blacksmith and second criminal. "You there! If you want weapons, you'll have to pay for them like everyone else."

Thinking he was being confronted by some guy wanting to be a hero, the man finished his fight with the blacksmith by punching him in the jaw and turned to swing the mace they'd been fighting over at the Knight. "Why don't you mind your own--" he was shocked to see Emrys but didn't have time to stop. It didn't matter, the Knight was fast and ducked. With a smirk, Emrys drew his sword as he stood straight up again and held the tip off it very close to the thief's throat. "Now, now. That's no way to talk to a Knight. But I'l go easy on you this time. I'll only recommend the full punishment for stealing."

"B-But I didn't steal anything! It was my partner, it was all his idea! I was just supposed to create a distraction while he got away!" the man tried to plead.

"You didn't do a very good job then... your friend didn't get very far. It doesn't matter what part you played, you participated in a theft, therefore you are just as guilty." Emrys took the mace from the man then had the blacksmith, who'd gotten up by now, tie his wrists. A couple of men dragged over the unconscious thief so his hands could be bound, too. They were reward with a gold coin for their help and Emrys tied the two men to the back of his horse. "Are you okay sir? Do you need any help collecting your wares?"

"I'm fine, milord. Only my dignity was hurt. But I sure am glad my little girl found you when she did. It would have cost a lot of coin to get supplies to replace everything." the blacksmith said with a chuckle as he picked up his daughter.

"Thank you mister Knight." the little girl said with a wave and giggle before hugging her father.

"You're very welcome, miss." Emrys said as he handed her a gold coin. "For being such a big help to your father. Take care now." WIth that, he retrieved his shield, made sure his catch was securely tied, then dragged them through the bustling streets of Draconis to the jail.

I followed the knight through the streets from a distance, bumping inti and even pushing the smuggish rude people out of the way. I began to lose the man until an ideal popped in my head; climb. I grabbed hold of a railing of sorts and scaled my way up one of the tall buildings with little to no time. As i reached the top I looked about as the winfmd blew my hood off, my hair flowing a bit freely, and right as I was about to give up I noticed the knight again. I sprinted atop the buildings, jumping from one to another careful as not to slip off, how that would be an embarrassing death.

I grew closer to the knight as him and the girl stopped at a scene of a blacksmith fighting off a thief, whilst another attempted to escape. The knight threw his shield and incredibly it hit the second thief's head, whilst he quickly drew a sword to the second thief's throat. Soon the men would be bound and those who helped the knight were given a gold coin, how considerate.
I couldn't get past the shieod throe though, either it was pure skill or just plain luck, either it only caught my attention. I swiftly dropped from a smaller building and into an alleyway, throwing my hood over my head as I exited to see the knight take off with tje bound men. I wasn't going to waste my time... However, there was an artifact shop across from me... Damn, its closed too.

Tenebris strode through the more common parts of the City, his attire humble yet unable to shake the regality in his strides as he walked ever filled with pride and purpose. His garb, being made up of a long black stylised Gambeson and duelling pants which were a fashion usually reserved to off duty lower tier guardsmen of the City and Mercenaries. Despite his desire to remain undetected to allow for free movement unhindered throughout the City, Tenebris had with him a company who was all to happy to announce himself without the slightest modesty in his appearance. Walking beside Tenebris, dressed in a white full plate-mail set of armour was Knight-Commander Horus, the Commanding Officer of the Laurel Knights. The Knight-Commander even without his armour or the Claymore which was placed upon his back would stand out even within the City of Draconis, a monster of a man, Horus although Human towers at seven foot tall and built of lean muscle, his Red flocks and rustic beard concealed in his Sugar Loaf Great Helm, the man even made Tenebris seem petite and delicate in comparison. The pair had already attracted enough attention as they made their way though the City and as well known as Tenebris was being Viscount and ruler of the City, Horus was a living legend, known of his fierce loyalty to the City and his brutality in combat. Even when Tenebris was but a mere guardsman within the Merchant district he remembered Horus as ever being a prominent member of the Laurel Knights.

As they continued to make their way down the cobblestone roads, some of the more superstitious Citizens seemed to stroke the white cloak of Horus as if he were a living luck charm. Tenebris was reluctant to have an escort, yet now in hindsight it works to his advantage, while Horus persisted to accompany him as he refused an armed escort thus -invited himself for a stroll- it had the desired effect to some degree, many of the Citizenry barely noticed Tenebris while without his stately ceremonial garbs and they were all to delighted to stare in awe at the Knight-Commander for the fact he was so far down in the lower tiers of the City, the attention to Tenebris was all but none existent. "Your Grace, I still fail to see why you see fit to visit the lower tiers and the commons", Horus finally spoke, his voice deep and authoritative, one who didn't know the man would assume he spoke harshly. "There is no immediate concern to our personage, Commander, if that is what you're suggesting", Tenebris spoke in a retort in a matter-of-factly manner, he knew what was coming. "There have been several missing Citizens within the past months, your grace, here and in the slums outside the City, leaving families and lodgings behind. It can only be of some insidious purpose", "And that Knight-Commander, is exactly why we're heading to the local barracks here, I want to know their progress", Horus scoffed, the rest of his facial expression being obscured by his Helm, Tenebris could only imagine a scowl hid below it. "You could of merely asked for a Report, your Grace, there is no need for this endeavour", Tenebris couldn't help but turn to Horus with a Wolfish wry grin of self satisfaction before he then replied "I'd prefer to have this visit informal, Knight-Commander, this will allow me to observe the Guard and City Watch at work outside of all the ceremony and pomp".

Tenebris and his company continued their way for the informal visit to the Barracks, Tenebris had every intention to see the recent developments but he wanted to know exactly how the guards were going about it, being a former Guardsman himself, Tenebris knew far to well of the methods in which the Guards conducted, and how very few were actually dedicated to the purpose of the greater good of the City and its public. It wasn't long before Tenebris saw a familiar sight, perhaps though it was an unfamiliar sight for this low within the City, but like his company beside him, Tenebris could spot the colours of another Laurel Knight, at first Tenebris thought nothing of it, yet as the crowd dispersed slightly it was clear the Knight had with him a Prisoner, bound and tied being dragged behind him. Horus immediately took several powerful strides forward to greet the other Knight who had his back turned several yards ahead, but Tenebris raised his right hand and waved it dismissively "Seems your men are kept ever busy, Knight-Commander, would appear we're headed in the same direction, will be quite the entertainment and shock to the local guards", Tenebris held back a smug smile before he then decided to follow at a distance, carefully remaining several meters behind the Knight and his Prisoner, watching intently through narrowed eyes in silence, hoping the Knight wouldn't turn around and be drawn to the attention of Horus.

Astral
Her daughter was quickly acclimating to the environment and Astral had caught up on recent events. Perhaps she could move on to actually getting back into the groove of things. The question was were to begin. Megalo was her target however she still didn't think it a good idea to bring her daughter there. Perhaps it was time to acquire a new pawn. It was unlikely any of her current pawns were in Iota. Her next pawn would have to be one she had closer ties with, one she could rely on a little more so than the others. And of course they had to have the ability to actually get things done. This was going to be a difficult task. Scanning the area she evaluated everyone within view. She simultaneously processed the profile of many at a time. Adept she was at picking up on a persons personality swiftly. Skilled she was at piecing together someone's history based on their actions and behavior. An eye she had for locating individuals with unique strengths.

Astral located a few that could qualify for pawns but none that fit the picture for what she currently had in mind. The disguised dragoness began switching tactics and thinking outside the box. That is when her candidate was revealed. He was expertly camouflaged by the large glorified knight that escorted him. He was the Viscount of the city. The clever women reasoned that given Draconis was unusual due to it's status as basically the most famous city in existence and it's subliminally known protection against the Iota natives, that the ruler of said city would be equally unusual. Perhaps he could be manipulated into an indispensable pawn.

The Viscount began following the knight with the dragon scaled shield she so despised. Astral began speed walking towards her new objective. She carried herself with a sense of urgency and importance. No doubt the Viscount wouldn't mistaken her for a commoner and it was a lucky coincidence she wore apparel that was a silent importance. Hopefully it would aid her interaction with the currently casual presence of the Viscount. Unfazed by the escort she approached Tenebris. Before she knew how to work with him she needed a reading. She'd never before actually interacted with the man. "Pardon. Sir! If you could spare an ear I've learned of grave information. It is in regards to an infiltration of a most curious sort, but one that could spell this city's doom." Astral said in a way that held an undertone of her high class and an overtone of urgency and worry. After she finished and before Tenebris spoke quite possibly the most surprising thing Astral had ever witnessed happened. A Fairy appeared from the rulers clothing and flew up to his shoulder to do what Astral assumed to be a whisper in his ear. Although the creature diminutive her own sensitive hearing should have picked up the creatures words. She realized too late it had been safe guarded with magic. This could complicate things.

Lilly
The little purple orb had no complaints as far as what she considered to be her new living conditions with Tenebris. Between the sights to see, the people to meet, and whatever Tenebris was up to she hadn't enough time to do everything she wanted too. She felt more free then ever. Within the presence and direct influence of the Viscount she needn't worry of capture. However suddenly she felt caged as if a chain existed between her and her new best friend limiting where she could go. She found herself getting antsy at being stuck within the administrative buildings the Viscount frequented. Today however was a special day. He had decided to roam the streets of Draconis and Lilly was more than insistent on accompanying. Out of necessity she was restricted to the confines his or his escorts clothing of her own decision and enforcement. Viscount or not in these streets she was not safe. Despite this it was just the little adventure she needed. Hidden under cloth or other attire she observed her ever changing surroundings. Mingling in large crowds was not something she had the pleasure of doing until now.

When the short green eyed women approached Tenebris Lilly was immediately given uneasy vibes. As she spoke Lilly noticed the women's appearance to be entirely made of magic. This discovery coupled with the women's message convinced the fairy she absolutely had to expose herself. Exiting from the Viscount's attire the Fairy coated in an orb of purple light floated up to Tenebris's ear. "Be careful. A strong spell hides this women's form. She might not be human or even a women come to think of it."

Luna and Eclipse
"No I'm not going to Gnetho to investigate some stupid spiders. Go send some stupid sciencey team to do that or something. This is the Lunar Eclipse Task Force. Task Force mom not science force." Koda said to the projection of his mother in her office. His sister Luna was quietly standing behind him while all the others on the ship's bridge had paused their task to witness the exchanged. "Task Force basically means errand runners and it's too dangerous to send a regular science team and you're the closest Task Force for many light years. It's an embarrassment I had to be brought in to make you do this. The missions on you and that's final. Oh and if you show any signs of insubordination again you'll be court marshaled." She said before the screen flickered and the connection cut off. "Shall I set course for Gnetho sir." Nick the ship navigator asked. "No I don't care what she says I'm not baby sitting giant spiders." "What!" Luna cut in. "Yes set course for Gnetho Nick." "Yes ma'am." He said before pretending to get to work while waiting to see how things ended. "Delay that order navigator who's name prolly shouldn't be remembered cuz you'll be fired soon." Koda snapped. Luna rolled her eyes before probably foolishly she realized trying to reason with him. "Koda she's serious if we don't do this we're done for." "Not if we black mail them with Tedranog" "Black mail WWG are you insane...no wait don't answer that." "Yes and maybe, we'll find out. Come on all that freaking black hole worthy firepower guarding that stupid planet. You don't actually believe they are there to protect...like...tourists from landing or something do you?" "Well no, you have a point but how the heck you plan on landing there and whatever it is we find either we'll go to jail for life or it'll actually be a big deal and they'll kill us." "I don't know that's your job and I'm sure we'll figure it out. Nick set course for Tedranog!" Nick just stared at the two siblings dumbfounded as to what to do. Luna let out a deep sigh. "Set course for Tedranog Nick." Nick couldn't believe Luna was actually going along with this. "No I'm not setting course for Tedranog. This is crazy even for Koda. I'm not being held responsible for this." "Guards! or whoever the fuck it is who arrests people. Arrest Nick for insubordination." Koda yelled. Luna glared at her brother. "What, what idiot does that after being told he's prolly going to get fired." Luna's glaring intensified.

While the Laurel Knight dealt with the criminals, the cursed man wandered through the streets in search of a new satchel. Donalbain was usually very careful when it came to his satchel; it had been his father's. But somehow it got torn to shreds a couple nights ago, too much to be repaired. He wouldn't throw the old one away though, he couldn't. Instead he planned on stitching the remnants to the new one.

After his business with the would-be-thieves ended, Emrys went to continue his rounds through Draconis. This time he started at the wealthier part of the city. Hardly anything happened here that shouldn't; despite the riches one could get if they were careful enough, the punishment for committing crimes in this part of the city were far worse than anywhere else. It was because of the nearly non-existent crime rate that Emrys liked patrolling here. Of course he liked showing off but he didn't mind a little break. The Knight's stomach rumbled as he passed a vendor who was selling cooked meat. No reason he couldn't stop for lunch....

"Two pieces of your finest, please. Big pieces." the half-elf said as he handed over the appropriate amount of coin. His stomach growled in approval when the vendor exchanged the coin for the two biggest pieces of meat he had and gave it to Emrys. Emrys thanked the man and walked to the fountain in the square to sit and eat.

Again I strode through the streets, agitation swiftly rising as I searched for a shop with something decent worth browsing. No, another bust. I was starting to think that Id wasted my time wjen I began to smell cooked meat, luckily it didn't smell too far. As I quickened my pace I noticed the vendor carrying meats, cooked, juicy and refreshing meats. Pork or beef? I asked myself, stopping the vendor as I greeted him.
"May I please buy a large chop?" I presented the gold amd the vendor took it, giving me the meal I wanted, "Thank you."

Before I could take a bite I looked for a suitible place to rest for the moment and thats when I noticed the knight from before eating at a fountain. I thought for a moment, "Perhaps I could make discussion? Maybe that shield...'
I madey way over there and sat next to the knight, but not too close as to alarm him. I looked down at the chop, looking it over as I pulled the hood back, revealing my pale skin in the light allowing the air to blow on my scalp. The wind was cool, meaning a storm was coming and that made me happy.

"So how does one obtain a shield such as yours?" I questioned the... Elf, no, this man was elf but he wasn't, a hybrid perhaps? Ive heard stories of half elves, the most likely of human, dark elven and wood elves, the least of orcs and dwarven. Whilst I saw neither of those specific hybrids it intrigued me to see one now.

(Bumping for everyone)

((Bump noted. Just waiting for another post before I do one.))