Accordance of Bones

A deep breath, a moment to enjoy the scent of fresh air, then an exhale which calmed the senses. A single small bird fluttering down from the sky and landing on the balcony railing to rest its wings. She’d smile and chuckle as it hopped in the cautious way expected of such creatures, but when she held out her hand, it would casually accept the offer and hop onto her finger. Its new perch lifted to her face as the two took a moment to stare into one another’s eyes as if to measure one another, then another smile as she turned her attention to the sky. Its bright blue hues accented with golden rays and white clouds washed over her with a sense of peace, and she couldn’t help feeling as if this were the type of thing she’d always wanted. Yet there was more that she wanted still. More she wished to experience with both freedom and happiness. 

“What do you think, little birdie? Do you believe I could reach those heights on nothing but my dreams?” She’d ask the creature. Its lack of worded response was expected. All but a single chirp. “I thought as much.” 

Another question almost left her lips, but then the door to the balcony flew open. Her head spun around quickly, and when the small creature took flight in a panic, she sighed as she watched it flutter away. Her full body now turning to face the attendant which had disturbed her peaceful rest, but it was nothing she found fault in. Audo loved company, after all, so she greeted them with the same smile she’d offered the bird. 

“My lady!” He’d say as he fell to his knee. 

“Now, now. There’s no need for the formalities. Why do you all refuse to call me by name?” She’d respond. 

“A sudden matter has arisen!” The panic in his eyes was clearly serious, but she’d found it more reasonable to calm her allies before increasing the agitations. 

“My. Surely it’s not so serious that you can’t be calm. Take a few breaths. Slow down.” 

“Apologies, but I cannot do that! This is a matter of the utmost urgency!” She sighed again and looked back towards the horizon and its sky. 

“You’re all no fun. There’s no harm in relaxing.” 

“I see you’re still causing just as much trouble for your subordinates as always.” A voice which immediately served to erase her smile. It didn’t matter how playful or jovial her mood had been; especially not when Jaiho had chosen to show his face. “I can already tell you’re not pleased to see me.” 

“And yet still you came. How very like you,” she responded while waving for the attendant to leave. 

“I understand you’re still upset."

“Do you? Because I don’t truly believe you do. In fact, I find it hard to believe you can even fathom the concept.” 

“Regardless of whether I do or not, an important matter has come up.” 

“Wow!” She exclaimed while returning her attention to the horizon. An attempt to have it act as the source of peace it had been mere moments ago, but it had proven itself incapable. Her mood was now soured and she couldn’t hide it. Regardless of his reasoning… or at least until he spoke it. “Don’t you have anyone else to clean up the messes you two craft? If it wasn’t obvious, I don’t much care to associate with either of you.” 

“They’ve done something which has put several lives at stake.” 

“Obviously. I could have told you both how ridiculous it would be trying to jail a Chisuke. Myha is Kikana’s son, after all. He’s bound to be troublesome.” 

“I’m not talking about Hellfire… I’m talking about Vandeverance.” 

She froze. The very name like a trigger she could never forget. It wasn’t something as flowery as some long-lost love or as serious as a rival. She’d assumed he’d come speaking about Hellfire who’d been locked up not too long before the current events around herself, but instead it was someone far more detrimental and dangerous. A long-time prisoner she’d been tasked with monitoring since before her initial time being locked away. She’d been so busy dealing with her own problems and situations that she’d entirely forgotten about the one person she’d made sure to keep on her mind. A claimant whose very existence was a direct danger to others so long as she lived. A claimant who, unlike herself, hated everyone in a way which corrupted their very heart and soul. 

———

Each step seemed almost like it was faster than the last. Several heads turned as she passed by numerous Woxia and Gimnai, but she didn’t have the time to give them any form of attention. They were likely all concerned to see an expression on her face which was entirely foreign. Panic, fear, anxiety; a face which revealed how utterly frightened she was of the very thought of what she might come to find awaiting her. Vandeverance, much like herself, had started as a human, but unlike herself she did not have the grace of being made a claimant from day one. She was made a claimant by the sheer luck of Eviax’s pity. Found on the brink of death and revitalized with a new chance at life. She was still young, but she had also seen firsthand the way her parents had been mercilessly torn apart by claimants going to war in the area she called home. A memory engraved so deeply into her mind and heart that after being made a claimant, after being repaired and convalescing, and even after being remade into a new being to fit that recovery… it ate away at her every thought. 

A son made to watch as his parents were torn apart limb from limb; suddenly waking to find himself a completely different thing from what she knew. What she’d assumed to be reincarnation instead being explained as some twisted form of grace. And then, after spending several years learning what her new life would be, she finds that the ancient which governs over life barely cared to even give the slightest bit of personal attention to the lives she made. Complacency became rage, rage became scorn, then scorn became rage again. That rage became resentment, and resentment became loathing. Loathing turned to abhorrence, then enmity. Animosity became everything, and that animosity would manifest into a pure and unchangeable hostility. A process which sounded like it would take months or years but instead happened in an instant. One moment they were observing, the next they were holding down a claimant so feral it would be easier to call her a rabid beast. 

Destodai wanted her dead; Eviax wanted to know what had caused such a sudden outburst, but Jayhe sought to tame the claimant and make it follow her will. And so, with that she was locked away. A prisoner of the Prism and a personal conquest for the ancient of order… but Audomattadjia was still left thinking about what had been said before she’d made her way back to the place she once called her home away from home… 

— 

“What happened?” Audo asked as she finally looked at her ancient. 

“We don’t know for certain. You know as well as the rest of us that Vandeverance was a bone sculptor. She’d been taught to shape and prepare bones to replace claimant amputee limbs as well as in preparation for the lives Destodai put together. From Eviax’s accounts she was particularly devoted to her work and put an extraordinary amount of care towards her every craft. But all of a sudden, she just snapped. Almost as if she wasn’t the same person anymore at all.” 

“How did she manage to get out of her prison? Did I not design it specifically to keep her properly contained?” 

“That’s just it,” Jaiho started with a sigh. “One of the claimants assigned to check in and do daily rounds assumed her prison was empty and that she had escaped, but when he got close enough to give it a better check, she grabbed ahold of his arm from inside.” 

“That shouldn’t be enough to get out.” 

“And she didn’t. Apparently, her nails dug into his arm, and he said he’d felt them scratch at the bone. Then, once he’d left the area to go tend to the wound, another claimant witnessed his skeleton duplicate from his own skeleton. You can imagine how horrifying the description was considering the factor of flesh housing the bones, but I’ll shorten it to the flesh on his back bursting open for a skeleton to emerge from within.” 

Audomattadjia looked visibly nauseous at the thought of it. “That’s something she could do?” 

“So it seems. And the second skeleton apparently picked up the nearest item that could be called a weapon and started attacking anyone on sight… the thing had to be dismantled entirely before it stopped moving.” 

“She still hasn’t been executed after all of this?” Audo asked with a concerned stare. “Other claimants are in danger now.” 

“Jayhe refuses to believe she cannot be tamed in some way, and she refuses to back down on that. This is the first time she’s ever done anything like this, but I don’t want to take any chances. If execution isn’t an option, I’d at least request an appraisal on her prison cell itself. That’s why I thought I had no choice but to come to you.” 

— 

Personally, she wanted to refuse and leave it to Jaiho and Jayhe to handle, but with claimants being victims she knew that wasn’t a risk she could consciously make. If the lives of other claimants were on the line, she would have to do something to handle this. If it was only an appraisal, then it was something she could do… but that didn’t keep her from standing outside of the door as if every muscle fiber in her body was screaming at her to keep out. 

Audo had attempted to hold conversations with her in the past, but they always ended the same way. Her points were far too realistic and valid, often making her second-guess her own choices and decisions. She picked away at her own morality with cynicism and reality, often leaving morality as a secondary factor. She wholeheartedly believed in the culling of problems and worshipped the idea of erasing all things she viewed as vile, even if it made her vile in the process. She was no martyr, nor was she a saint, but she was more than willing to call herself a slayer. Although only that one instance of violence against Destodai had landed her in that prison, she’d made it more than clear that she was willing to do it again. And the second time she would not fail. 

Audo sighed, placed her hand on the door, and pushed it open with a subtle creak before her eyes widened ever so slightly. As surprising as it was to see the state of her accommodation, she would only let it show so much. The prison itself was as she remembered it. Bars crafted to keep her in and others out, spacious enough to move freely, and illuminated by soft lights which would not agitate the eyes. It was all the exact same… save for the piles of bones which now littered the entire floor within. Each set of bones was well polished and cared for, and each set had its own specific detailing and personality. However, among it all, the one thing that was missing was the claimant herself. She was nowhere to be seen, and that alone made it obvious as to how someone could have been caught off guard. There wasn’t a single sound to be heard, but her house scent was undeniably present, so she searched. 

Her eyes would scan the right side of the prison and see nothing. Then they would turn to the left where they’d see nothing more than before. She’d look down and eye the bones for any sign of movement, and it would be there where she’d see motionless piles of smooth white. Her eyes would coast upward to perhaps find her latched onto the top of her cell waiting to strike, but it was entirely empty where she could see. Her next course of action was to simply call out to her and draw the woman’s attention, but it was during that very thought she’d return her gaze forward and find someone she’d never seen before standing directly in front of her. Or at least that was what she’d thought at a glance. Skin like lead and moonglow blue eyes. Short hair, the color of alabaster and a distinct lack of clothing which had gone to show how little that had come to matter to her. Indeed, this was certainly Vandeverance. Audo could still tell even with the large horns of bone protruding from her skull. It was her cocky and smug smile which gave it away, followed by her distinct voice. 

“How odd. To think you’d show yourself here after so long. Did you wish to chat again? Or did you come to whine?” 

An accent like no other from a culture of ancient humans which likely no longer existed, of which she was the last remaining. Every O extended into an OO; every I pronounced its letter name. R’s pronounced as A’s, and U’s all silent. All done without ever parting her canines. It was impossible to forget and was the first thing that stood out to her the moment she’d arrived in the Prism. When asked, Eviax had told Audo she’d started by speaking a language that merely was nonexistent in the vocabulary they knew. A dead culture for dead people, and yet one they all could understand as usual. 

“I only came to talk and perform a daily inspection.” Audo responded in a casual manner. However, the woman’s smile only grew with that answer. 

“Seems you’re still just as much of a fool as before. I envy your blissful ignorance.” 

“I see insults are still a staple part of your vocabulary.” 

“Hah!” The first instance in which those canines parted since her arrival, and of course it was to laugh in her face. “It should be expected that I speak the truth when I see it.” 

Audo watched as the woman turned and walked away. A finger rising as if to call for someone to follow, and with that action a skeleton rose from the bones littering the floor. In fact, there were so many bones that ground itself couldn’t be seen underneath the layer of pale white. The skeleton that did rise, however, was distinct in how similar it was in stature and build to Vandeverance herself. It followed behind her and, once she stopped, fell to its hands and knees where it would act as a chair for the time being. Audo took note of the way some of its bones had been damaged with cracks and small fractures, but it was still more than sturdy enough to hold her weight. She’d only just arrived and was shown the type of thing those claimants had to subdue. 

“You’ve made some… rather unique changes to this place since the last time we spoke.” 

“Yes. I was bored of stone floors and half-hearted accommodations.” Her response was bland, as if the conversation was beginning to lose her personal interest. 

“You also seem to have changed much yourself. From fancy dresses and long hair to horns and bare flesh? I can put in a request for some new clothes if you desire— 

“Don’t bother. They wouldn’t last long anyway. But you,” she started as a finger pointed in her direction. “You don’t seem to have changed much at all. Betrayed, yet still hoping for those ancients to throw you a bone? When I’d heard the news, I laughed at first, but seeing you now it’s just pitiful.” 

“I don’t desire conflict, Vandeverance. I only want peace for everyone. Nothing more.” 

“Leave it to you to expect decency from the indecent!” She’d laugh again. 

“I don’t find anything funny about it.” Audo’s brow would furrow. Small sparks and embers forming in the air around her but fading just as quickly. 

“We are so fundamentally different, yet so similar. We were both humans once, although I suppose our circumstances were different. I was human for some few years, but you were made a claimant before even your first year had passed. Both our parents dead with circumstances we can’t be pleased with; both our lives torn up from the roots. What I don’t understand is why you’re so useless.” 

“Excuse me?” 

“You heard me. I am a claimant of life, but the ancient of life is a bastard. Someone who deserves death more than anyone else. I know that better than anyone. That’s why I made an attempt. You, on the other hand, got sedated and imprisoned for what amounts to nothing! Guided distrust! And now here you are, advocating for peace as if that wasn’t the case before.” 

“Perhaps I simply have more willpower than you to hold myself to a standard above mindless murder and violence.” Audo spoke. 

“Or perhaps you simply have yet to truly lose what matters in a meaningful way. I suppose you cannot blame the ancients for your parent’s lives as I can, but at least I was able to see them off.” Vandeverance responded. 

“And what? Is that why you attacked those claimants and injured so many? Because of some grudge with Destodai?” 

“Huh? Hah! Is that why you’re here? To interrogate me on my reasoning? Well, sorry to say, it amounted to nothing more than my boredom.” 

“You’d kill people out of boredom?!” Audo snapped, but what she did not expect was Vandeverance to snap back. 

“Is that not what your ancients do?! Is that not what your precious claimants do?! Say what you will, but all you creatures have ever done is trample the lives of those you consider beneath you and treat it as if it’s simply another day! Even your failure to act against those who have done you wrong is an additional blight to the pile! Another allowance of the wretched worms to do as they please with the lives of others without facing or even expecting any real consequences!” 

“It has never been so black and white.” Audo retaliated. 

“It has always been black and white. There are no grays with life and death. Oh! That is, unless your ancients deem you worthy of many lives.” Vandeverance paused before laughing and rising back to her feet. Her pace picked up as she approached the edge of her prison and stared directly into Audo’s eyes. “You just don’t want to see it, but that only makes you just like them.” 

This was exactly why Audo hated talking to her. Vandeverance was not the type to ever back down when confronted in an argument or debate. The longer it stretched on, the more accurate her words became, and eventually she would simply bombard you with facts and points that simply could not be denied. Rebuttals became sparse and eventually waned to nothing, and all that was left remaining was mere feelings against reality… and Vandeverance was a firm believer in the basis of reality. If she ever did believe in some form of religion of God when she was human, that had long since passed since she’d become a claimant. And Audo had concluded a long time ago that the loss of whatever beliefs she once had only added to the hefty blame she placed solely on the ancients and claimants. She hated them all, and she wasn’t afraid to say it. Only so few people ever gained the slightest shred of her validation or grace, fewer her trust, and she was once one of them. 

“Vandeverance. Do you feel no empathy? Do the lives of others matter to you so little that you’d gladly crush them all just so you can achieve what you desire?” The question brought a deep frown to the claimant’s face. 

“You know, I once thought you might finally understand. The strategy you employed for your own escape was marvelous, after all. You could have easily eviscerated hundreds, possibly thousands, from your prison and caused unprecedented damage to the Prism… but then you proved me wrong. You got your freedom and went right back to doing nothing.” 

“I didn’t want to harm anyone. I just wanted to be free.” 

“Of course, because that’s all that matters to you. That’s all you’re good for if you can’t even hear her voice,” Vandeverance said as she waltzed back to the center of her prison. 

“Is there really no way to change your mind? To have you see things another way?” Audo asked. 

“If you truly don’t want anyone else to die, I would suggest investing in a prison idiots cannot reach into. That insight will be your reward for the company, but don’t expect me to just let any trash escape my grasp if I can reach them. Now begone.” 

“I see. Thank you for your consideration.” There was no response. Only the sight of the Origui slithering into the piles of bones until she was entirely out of sight. Like a snake in the grass. 

Audomattadjia took all the blame on herself, and it was only natural that she would. While she was known for her skills and exploits on several battlefields during her active time, Audo’s primary purpose was in designing and creating prisons and cells for the purpose of containing claimants. She took their skills into consideration as well as their physical attributes and created personal spaces for confinement with those details. There was almost no claimant of high priority within the Prism whose containment was not designed in some major way by Audomattadjia. That included claimants like Lilith and even the prison she herself had been kept within. Hers had been crafted with the idea of holding ancients if need be, but it was unfinished and therefore failed in its purpose to keep her properly secured from others. 

She calmed herself down. Unfurling her fists with a deep and slow exhale as she’d normally found herself doing after holding conversations with Vandeverance. The two were fundamentally different in the way they thought and acted, but somehow, they always managed to hold conversations where no one else could. Even if they often became heated debates. Where Audomattadjia was capable of forgiveness and letting matters rest, Vandeverance could not fathom such concepts. She was the type to immediately take revenge and do so with as much animosity as possible. What really stuck out to Audo however was something she’d said in passing right before their conversation ended. Referring to a voice that she’d apparently expected her to hear, but obviously that was a one-sided thing. It was something she’d have to think more about later. 

Audo turned and began making her way to the exit. Her eyes continued to mark details around the area to consider other possibilities that might need fixing, but paused and turned back when hearing Vandeverance’s voice one more time. 

“You should hope I never leave this place, Audomattadjia. If that day ever comes, I’m tempted to see how much I must take from you to finally open your ears.” 

———

After many years had passed and many events had taken place, many individuals had found themselves in different situations. By now Audomattadjia had found herself once again in the Prism. This time as a prisoner again, and with an entirely different frame of mind. She was calmer than anyone had expected, but that only made everyone who saw her feel as if she had some plot or plan prepared to spike off at any moment. However, that was not the purpose of the day. The door opened, footsteps approached, and when those steps became silent, she would not respond. She knew those steps. She knew every single detail about them from the length of the stride to the weight of every footfall, and this time forgiveness was out of the question. 

“Audo…” Jaiho started, only to be met with silence. It was expected. “I know you don’t want to talk, but this is too important.” 

Her silence was like its own form of dagger scraping at his heart. Not because it was violent, but because he knew the woman Audomattadjia was before this. After the first time, she’d closed herself off with distance but still interacted when it was necessary. Now, however, she’d closed herself off to him entirely. Closed herself off to everyone as far as he knew. Even so, he wouldn’t allow that to keep him from saying what needed to be said. 

“Audo, I only need you to listen to me. Please. If there’s anything you can tell me, then I need to hear it. I’ll appreciate any information you can give me.” Another moment of silence, and Jaiho would sigh before stating his purpose in being there. “Vandeverance Origui has escaped, and no one knows how or where she’s gone. There isn’t a trace. Not a single clue.” 

A single loud thud brought silence, although she didn’t turn to see him. The book which had been in her hands now lies on the floor while she sat motionless in her chair. Her hands trembling ever so slightly as she remembered the final words that woman of bones and violence had shared with her. She remembered those akin to a promise, and all she could feel was anxiety. The worry of what might happen if she learned of her children. A whisper in her ear. As if chaos itself were making an attempt to guide her through any means of escape; to safeguard her children from the monster no doubt searching desperately to discover their existence and ties to her… then she understood, for only a short moment, what overwhelming soul she’d been so casually conversing with and how dangerous she truly was. A single thought crossed her mind in that moment. 

“Chaos is like an urge constantly driving me through my soul. A part of me I can’t ever fully ignore… but what voice does she hear that guides her to kill ancients of all beings so brazenly?” 

Mein Fräulein

Several things could be considered a mistake leading up to this very moment for Jaffe. Her latest quarry had proven to be more troublesome than originally anticipated, which did manage to leave a few scars but nothing so extreme as to be an issue. Some blood never ruined the mood under a moonlit sky; even if it was her own. It did, however, make the job take longer than she’d expected. There was also the promise she’d made with Gabi beforehand. A date of sorts, although it would be delegated to just lazing around her mansion, but a date, nonetheless. Telling her she might be late was met with a simple, “if you’re late, I’m coming to get you”, and perhaps rather ignorantly she’d ignore that threat. All considerable failures on her part, but none more than the oversight of having not showered before making her way out here to the middle of nowhere. 

If things had turned out the way she’d hoped, there would have been more than enough time, but they didn’t. It had taken entirely too long to track down the object of her desires, and that meant she didn’t have enough time to freshen up at all. That meant Arthur’s scent was still overwhelmingly fresh on her skin and clothes. An issue which would be easily resolvable with a very meticulous bath to counteract the proficiency of Gabi’s sense of smell… if Gabi hadn’t followed up on her threat. She didn’t even hear her wings overhead and only managed to take notice of her when those two dark limbs came between her and the moonlight. Her eyes turned up, jaw clenched, and she didn’t even bother to smile. She could tell from the way the Dimea stared down at her like filth that she’d already been found out. 

“You could have just waited at home,” she attempted to play it off as the woman descended. “I just finished up here so let’s… go… back?” 

Each word became increasingly difficult to say. The farce less valid as Gabi’s feet touched down on the ground right in front of her, and she stepped forward with every fiber of her body meant to intimidate. There was something absurdly beautiful about it, but then again there always was. She got close, close enough to taste, and then her nose twitched. 

“I knew I smelled something annoyingly unfamiliar.” The first words to exit her mouth and they were clearly livid. 

“Well duh. I don’t smell the same every day.” 

“It’s not a house or cologne I’m smelling, whore. Don’t play dumb. The odor of sex is all over you.” 

“Well… are you sure you’re not just horny or something?” Distraction is what is needed. Anything to distract her from what she was currently doing, but the moment Gabi’s hand grabbed ahold of her collar and pulled her even closer, she knew that wasn’t going to work either. 

She could hear her nose sniffing. Feel the air of each breath on her neck. And when she was done analyzing her like a bloodhound, Jaffe would find herself pushed away and on her rear. “Hältst du mich für einen Narren? Ich teile nichts, was mir gehört.” 

(Do you take me for a fool? I share nothing that belongs to me.) 

The first thought that came to mind as she watched Gabi’s wings stretch outward was consideration for how entrancing a sight it was. Then she wondered if she’d ever even heard Gabi speak German outside of her movies before as the woman’s wings carried her up into the air. It wasn’t until she saw the woman turn in a very distinct direction, her wings fray, and her partner burst into the distance with enough force to echo through the air that she’d consider the implications all of this held. There was no real reason to worry about lives being lost, for the most part, but with Gabi involved the chances of damage to the surrounding area and property was practically one hundred percent. So, she’d reach into her pocket, retrieve her phone, and with a few accurate and rushed taps on the screen, she’d make a call. 

The sound of his phone would catch his attention, then the ringtone itself would signal to him who the caller was. There was no hurry, and perhaps that was why he lifted the device in such a casual and relaxed manner, but once Arthur answered and lifted the phone to his ear, there wasn’t even a moment to speak. 

“Where are you?” She’d ask in a clearly panicked tone. 

“I’m home, right where you left me. You do remember you were here not too long ago, right?” He’d respond while leaning into the cushions of his couch. 

“Are Eric and Jillian around?” 

“No. If I recall, they've both wandered off. Why?” 

“Shit. Well, how far could you get away from there in about say… thirty seconds? A minute?” 

“Is there something I should be concerned about?” 

“Technically no, but possibly, yes?” Jaffe started. “Look, I may have made a teensy, tiny mistake. If someone knocks at your door, don’t open it.” 

“Why would I do that?” 

“Actually, never mind. Open it and act like you don’t know me at all. I doubt that would work, but hopefully that at least confuses her long enough to second guess doing anything outrageous.” 

“Her? You’re talking about Gabi, aren’t you?” 

“You know what? Just don’t open the door and hide.” 

“Look, love, I doubt it will be that— 

He paused when hearing two knocks at the door. Only two regular knocks without any fanfare or anger. What was more unsettling was the silence which had come before and subsequently followed them. He didn’t hear anyone approach and now that they had come, there was no sign of life occupying the opposite side of the door. It was familiar, but in an uncomfortable way. The type of approach he’d come to expect from assassins and murderers under the cover of darkness. Particularly Lilith's favorite Chisuke. He’d heard about the woman from Eric, but this was nothing like he’d expected it would be. 

“Open the door! Open it!” Jaffe’s voice snapped him out of his own thoughts, but practically a step too late. What came next was the sound of wood straining under the weight of the unknown, the stress of the door’s lock and hinges creaking and popping before the door itself was ejected from its frame. Falling flat on the floor and revealing the woman on the opposite end. 

“Well. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He’d start as he eyed the mess. 

“You didn’t think you could hide, did you?” Her question was serious, but almost in a dramatic way. As if it were meant to be theatrical. A Dimea through and through. 

“Perhaps you should be patient enough to let people get to their doors before you break them down. I have no reason to hide from you.” 

“Do you think this is a game?” 

First and foremost, one thing was made blatantly obvious. Jaffe was no liar when it came to Gabi. It was no wonder she practically worshiped the very ground this woman walked on. In fact, looking at her himself, it felt almost as if she had undersold her descriptions and praise. Even when she was being overwhelming threatening and poised to attack, she held every single attribute which the standard ladies of her family sported and more. Just looking at her face would make it obvious that she was one of Kana’s descendants, although the way she dressed lacked formality. However, more troubling was that secondly Eric had also not been false in his assessment of her. Albeit just as guilty of underselling it. Saying she doesn’t hold back was the greatest understatement yet. 

The first step she’d made into his home was coated in the darkest of auras pouring from where that foot fell. It was like her malice had manifested into reality and was seeping out like an overfilled glass as her element. Her eyes burning with that familiar Chisuke crimson, and yet she lacked every single trait her father and grandmother prioritized. It couldn’t be more obvious when her approach was coupled with her reaching into the pocket of her shorts and retrieving five rings. Familiar rings. Rings she proceeded to place on every finger of her right hand before rolling it into a tight fist and pulling it pack with all the strength she could manage to fathom. Arthur wasn’t afraid for himself, but the building was another story. 

“Wait!” He’d call out just in time for her fist to stop just before fully extending to reach him. 

“Speak.” 

“Oh wow. I wasn’t actually expecting you to stop. Still, it’d be an issue if you destroyed the entire floor of this building, wouldn’t it?” 

“I can just pay for that, dumbass.” 

“You can pay for the lives you destroy and people you kill?” Arthur asked with a confused expression. “It wouldn’t be worth it anyway. It’s not like you can kill me.” 

“If your goal was to piss me off as much as you possibly could, then congratulations. I don’t think I’ve ever wanted someone dead as much as I want you right now.” 

He’d expected her to immediately fly off the hinges from the descriptions Eric had given of her attitude, but instead she was relatively calm despite the way she spoke. In fact, surprisingly, he was shocked to see one of the kittens in his possession choose to approach her without reservation. She’d eye it for a moment, sigh, then remove the rings from her fingers and offer that same hand to the creature. The last thing he’d expected to see was her lifting the creature from the floor and holding it in her arms with so much care; making it obvious what she'd removed her rings for. Her expression had done a complete one-eighty as she pampered the kitten with as much love as she could muster, and that made his chest thrum. It was almost too familiar a sight in some strange way. 

He found himself stepping forward to get a closer look at her. Fitted leather combat boots, jean shorts cut almost too short, a black tank top with a brand he’d never seen before plastered on its front, and a worn fleece crimson shirt. Her hair was tied into a thick, single braid which was now in the claws of the kitten, and her eyes, which were once the exact opposite color, were now an impossible to ignore blue. He felt as if he were seeing something, or perhaps feeling something, but he couldn’t put his finger on it. It wasn’t until he’d gotten close enough to hear her every breath that he’d see her eyes flick on him. Sapphires he did not recognize, before returning to deep red. 

“Do I know you?” He’d ask. Her response would remain simple and expected alongside a rising right hand. 

“Are you insane? You're a dead man.” 

Jaffe found herself envious of Gabi’s wings in more ways than the one when she’d finally arrived at Arthur’s residence. The way she soared through the air was as delicate as one might expect, but the moment she chose to become violence, speed overtook grace. Compared to traveling the same distance on foot, it would always be a more preferential choice. Thankfully she was athletic enough to make the run, and that itself was something to be proud of, but once the door came into view… or where the door once stood… she rushed over to find Arthur examining the damaged frame. 

“You’re not hurt, are you?” She’d inquire. 

“You were expecting me to be hurt? I’d normally call that concerning, but I get the reasoning behind the worry.” He’d respond while stepping aside for her to enter. 

“I’m surprised that’s all the damage she caused.” Jaffe spoke while stepping inside. “It’s always going to be difficult dealing with a…” 

She paused once her eyes turned to the side. A corner of the room normally occupied by cats now housing red eyes and darkened shadows. Gabi, surrounded by every feline the home had to offer and with an expression equal in both disgust and agitation. For a moment she reminded her of Gahbreal, riding the line of that same stoic yet irate expression, but that was simply an expectation. As much as she had come to hate the man, most of her tendencies leaned heavily towards mimicking his own. That was why she knew exactly what was going to come out of her mouth. 

“Go on. Difficult dealing with a what, exactly?” Her voice wasn’t angry, and that’s what scared her the most. 

“A, uhm, beautiful and respectable young lady. Or a bitch, for short.” She responded before finally noticing the splatter of blood which covered her clothes, right arm, and the speckles on her face. “Of course you tried.” 

“Leave it to you to involve someone more annoying than they’re worth.” Gabi stood and as she did, the creatures surrounded her feet. “I was waiting for you.” 

“Aw, how cute. You wanted my permission to leave?” 

“Perhaps I hadn’t made myself clear when we first started this, but I refuse to share. Not with anyone. I don’t care who and I don’t care what.” 

“Is that right? Sorry to say, but you’ll just have to put up with it, songbird.” 

A challenge which made Gahbriogyva so immediately livid that her reaction was beyond anything Jaffe had expected to that point. There were no snide remarks or insults under her breath. Just widened red eyes as the kittens instinctually scattered in all directions. Her right hand rising as what sounded like a malformed scream tearing across realms accompanied the arrival of her clawed gauntlet. Jaffe had seen it resting in its display case in Gahbriogyva’s home numerous times, and every time she did there was an urge to take it. However, that urge was heavily outweighed by the overwhelming sense of dread which loomed over the thing no matter what time of day. As of the it instinctively hungered for more violence than any one person could hope to provide. Even seeing it now was taxing on the nerves. 

It dripped with blood despite having not touched a single person, and that blood seemed to sizzle upon the floor it fell to. Despite that its claws were so sharp they held a subtle sheen even with barely any light shining on them. It was almost as if the thing were pulsing with some agenda beyond merely being a weapon, but beyond that was the way it seemed to change her partner the moment it was called. Her eyes focused, her expression vacant of anything below seething agitation, and her entire body primed to strike. There hadn’t been a moment where she resembled Gahbreal any more than this that she could recall from ever knowing her, but there wasn’t even a moment to let her mind think on that for long. Not when the woman charged her so quickly that she couldn’t even react. 

Sure, there was some violence involved in their relationship. For the most part it came rather naturally, and there was a specific methodology to the way they engaged, but this? The way her hand clasped around her throat the very second she was within range? That action alone felt as if it could have killed someone lesser. The claws did not dig into the skin, but it felt as if the gauntlet itself were digging directly into her mind. Scrambling her thoughts and scraping her skull. Jaffe couldn’t focus enough to even consider the possibility of if this was the madness she’d described, but that was primarily due to her undivided attention being concentrated on Gahbriogyva’s quickly tightening grip. The gauntlet felt as if it were searing her fingers as she attempted to break her hold, but all she could feel was the increasing force of constriction. 

Her eyes slowly rolled into the back of her head as she could feel the way the Dimea’s hand attempted to force that fatal snap. All her strength was stolen within seconds but returned when she crumbled to her knees coughing and gasping for air. A change of heart, perhaps, but that wasn’t what she expected. Instead, she’d look to see Arthur’s intervention. Having directly grabbed and twisted Gahbriogyva’s arm to force a release. This was another new visual. Seeing anyone physically challenge the winged claimant at all. 

“That’s more than enough.” His brow furrowed. 

“If you want to die first then I’ll gladly oblige you!” She responded as she pulled her hand away before immediately pulling it even further back. Arthur recognized what she was doing the very second her fingers straightened like a blade. 

Jaffe had seen her fight before, but when Gahbriogyva’s hand descended on Arthur and he caught it, it brought a very clear realization along with it. From the way their collision rattled all the decorations from their positions around the room, to the shaking of the building around them. She was dangerous; Jaffe knew she was dangerous, but now the level of that danger was overly clear. Gahbreal had told her in passing that his daughter was not the type to be trifled with unless she wished to die, but this amount of force was beyond what she’d known most others to accomplish. Worse than that, she knew this was the output with her not going at it with her all. Even so, Arthur defended himself perfectly and threw her aside, but that was merely the catalyst which caused her wings to sprout from her back and stop her momentum entirely. 

“Did you really thing you could beat me with a technique one of my own lives taught you?” Arthur questioned her, only for Gahbriogyva to respond in the most typical way possible. Unlike her father, but more akin to her mother. 

“For the audacity of believing you can take what’s mine, and the mistake of believing you deserve more than me, your punishment is death! Death by violence!” 

Every muscle in her body activated as the air filled with the thick odor of blood. The stale and sticky blood of the houses like a sickeningly vile aura. Her teeth clenching, eyes sharpening into red pins as the air vibrated with the overwhelming weight of vile power. Her violence. Her brow furrowed, wings frayed, hair stood on ends as she looked more like a claimant than she'd typically ever allowed, and then— 

“THAT is ENOUGH!” Eric’s voice halted the rising enmity. It was implied that Eric was someone who had managed to gain a considerable amount of control over Gabi, but it wasn’t nearly as obvious as it was now. 

“You’d dare to interrupt me?” She’d respond in a final burst of anger. 

“ENOUGH. You’ve caused MORE THAN enough damage. Come. NOW.” 

Jaffe watched as, for the first time she'd ever witnessed, Gabi surrendered in combat. Her feet touching the ground with the most subtle of taps and her wings folding at her back as she stepped forward. The gauntlet melted away like flesh from bone and splattered on the ground into a pile of bubbling darkness, before seemingly seeping into her shadow and vanishing entirely. As she passed both Jaffe and Arthur by, she didn’t even bother to look at either of them. To Jaffe that stung more than anything else. It was one thing to have her angry with her, another to have her yell or complain, but being treated like some stranger that didn’t exist was a completely different feeling from her. 

“I’m going home.” Gabi would start. 

“No. YOU are coming WITH ME for DINNER.” 

“For what? My chef makes better food than whatever fast food slop you’re offering.” 

“YOUR AUNT wouldn’t be pleased to hear you say that about HER cooking.” Eric would respond. 

Gabi would be silent for a moment before inevitably saying, “fine.” 

She’d be the first to walk away from the collapsed door. Eric would look in at Arthur, then Jaffe, then back to Arthur before giving him a wave and following behind his niece. It only took a few moments after that for Lizbett to step forward with the most ominous of glares, and a few seconds after that for Mist to arrive with a yawn… still fully dressed in her sleep attire. 

“Well, would you look at you. The fuckup of the hour.” She’d begin while looking at the damage caused to the property from the outside. “I hate my job so much.” 

“You sound more like your boss every day.” Jaffe would respond. 

“How normal of you. We may both be Testua, but you’re clearly missing the majority of the brains our kin can manage. You should just be glad you made it through the night, although we never know what tomorrow holds.” 

“Yeah. Definitely sounding more like her now,” Jaffe would respond again to the agitation of her kin. 

“You know what? I don’t know what I expected.” Mist would speak before pulling out a notepad and quickly writing down several things before placing it on the floor outside of the door frame she’d yet to enter. “Call the number on there and they will handle the repairs.” 

“That’s why you’re here?” Arthur would ask. 

“With all due respect, your highness, our boss doesn’t concern herself with things she considers to be beneath her. Gahbriogyva is a paragon of power. A prodigy. It’s my job to handle paperwork in situations like this. Nothing more.” 

“And you just happened to be around?” 

“Part of my job is regulating schedules and documents. The moment she left her home outside of that schedule I considered the possibilities and began tracking her down.” For a moment he didn’t want to believe her, but it didn’t look like she cared either way. 

“How do you guys always get around so fast? Wouldn’t it normally take days to get here?” Jaffe asked. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know,” Mist responded before yawning and walking away. “Come on, Lizbett. I’m tired and my night is ruined. Fucking bullshit. This job only ever has me dealing with idiots.” 

Lizbett stared at Jaffe for several long seconds before following the Testua until their footsteps faded into silence. Of course Gabi’s overprotective driver would be mad at her, and it was only natural that Mist treats her the way she did… she treated everyone that way. Arthur took the opportunity to retrieve the slip of paper where it described all the damages, the cost for each of their repairs and the amount they’d be willing to spend to accommodate those repairs. He had to read it again just to be entirely certain. 

“They’re willing to pay more than the entire place costs…” 

“Well, consider it kind. As sharp as her tongue is, Mist doesn’t slack when it comes to work. Not to mention she’s got some deep pockets.” Jaffe responded while walking over to look at the exact amount. 

“More importantly, how do you plan to resolve this?” Arthur asked. 

“It’ll take some work, but I’m not sure if this is something I can recover from. Gabi normally doesn’t get this offended.” She paused and thought for a moment. A silence which ended when she’d resolved herself to simply say, “I’m worried.” 

“You shouldn’t have much to worry about. Considering the first thing she did was try to get rid of me. She likely just wants you all to herself.” 

“I don’t know. She’s a lot of things, but she’s never really been greedy… unless combat is involved. I’m pretty sure that siren could fight for days without a single break.” 

“If you’re going to give up, I won’t complain. That just means I get all your time.” Arthur joked. 

“Asshole,” Jaffe laughed as she clung to his frame. Perhaps naturally, or maybe out of necessity. 

There was a feeling she couldn’t shake when the thought of an end to what she’d managed with Gahbriogyva was considered. It was always a possibility, but it didn’t seem real until that very moment. For the most part, it was difficult to keep Gabi from absorbing all her time whenever the winged claimant had gotten the chance. Against what most could fathom or bring themselves to believe, the Dimea had proven to be rather clingy, actually. Perhaps it was due to the influence of her mother, but Gabi was easily described as unnaturally addicted to doting within the confines of their relationship. Aside from the rampant sexual romance which flooded most of her actions, every moment outside of that was constant physical contact. She practically demanded it and became violent and standoffish without it. That was why being ignored by her felt so distinctly unnatural. 

However, Arthur’s mind was on something else entirely. The odd familiarity. A subtle feeling that Gabi was someone that he knows. Or at least someone he once knew.

Waking Forgotten Evils

Part:1

He looked up at the sun and in it saw nothing but light. Even if he could not see the heat it could be felt and yet, with every passing thought, his heart ached. He’d look to his side and see the children playing carelessly as they ran down the road. He’d look to the opposite side and see several businesses along the roadside. All open, all busy, all meaningful. He’d look at the cobblestone roads and brick made buildings, the trees and grass, the birds chirping and stray cats wandering… and it would all feel so empty. No matter how long he watched or what he saw, none of could replace the space within his own heart which consumed everything around it and left longing in its wake. 

“Hey.” A voice would pull him back. A man dressed in a black suit with a green tie. He wasn’t important, but neither was himself in the grand scheme of things. “Focus. We have work to do.” He’d speak without stopping. 

“Yeah… I know.” 

The two weren’t from the area, and that alone was more than enough to make them stand out. A small and rural town, easily capable of being simplified into a village, and it looked the part, to say the very least. The type of place where you’d be left to believe everyone lived honest lives and got along well enough with one another. The work of claimants was clearly at play as well, which gave a simple form of subtle wonder to certain details. It was obvious that a lot of the greenery was made possible by the hands of a Fovey. It was simply too lush and colorful otherwise. As intricate as the stone paths were, they were also far too well maintained for humans to accomplish. No cracks or blemishes made that obvious. Several more details in the architecture of structures also spoke of inhuman involvement. It felt like one of the passing mortals might use some form of magic at any moment otherwise. 

Compared to their surroundings, they were the outliers. Not that everyone around them wasn’t wearing modern clothing, but theirs was simply the most unnatural. The one leading them an order claimant wearing a full silver suit with a long black coat and black leather shoes. Golden cufflinks, a golden tie, and golden glasses alongside slicked back black hair and a well-maintained mustache. His eyes were like slivers of charcoal and his skin like auburn spice. Meanwhile, he was very different. A worn and tattered black cloak over a simple green shirt with its sleeves torn off; black pants tucked into wrappings around the ankles and feet covered with shoes that looked to have been fashioned from carved strips of wood. All of it looked as if it had been patched up multiple times over, and there was a slight floral scent clinging to him. Even so, his hair was a wild mane of deep brown tendrils going down his back and over his shoulders. His beige eyes could barely be seen beneath it, but despite that his face was cleanly shaven. Pale and burnish as if he spent ample time beneath the sun. 

The children did not seem to care for them, but nearly every adult they passed by who wasn’t busy with something received their full attention. “These people aren’t aware of the luxury they have.” The Woxia commented. 

“They’re living peacefully. Is that not a blessing itself?” He responded. 

“A blessing indeed. It’s only due to the claimant inhabitants no doubt keeping them decent.” He’d comment as his eyes scanned the environment. Every detail. Every mark. Every distinction. “There aren’t many places this small where claimants from opposing houses get along. That alone makes this place dangerous.” He’d say as he reached into his coat and retrieved a pipe. It was already lit, as if smoldering endlessly. 

“You believe you’ll need your weapon now?” 

“You’re naïve if you think you don’t. Was it not you that requested to accompany me here?” He asked while pointing ahead. “You should have been on guard from the moment we stepped foot in this place.” 

He followed his finger to see a residential area where several homes stood with decent space between them. Each one with enough room to fit at least three homes between them, but the buildings themselves were relatively old fashioned. Rural cottages surrounded by flowers and gardens. Some even with stables and brick wells. “I guess that’s why we saw no cars.” He’d say as his eyes followed his finger to one singular home. On the edge of the village, the furthest, and quite remarkable in its own way. Surrounded by flowers of all colors and trees housing birds and creatures of every shade. 

“That is our destination.” 

As they approached, it became certain that someone had meticulously cared for the property. A pond which looked as if it had been made by hand, a garden harboring enough food to last an entire season, spices and herbs, flowers as far as the eye could see with stone decoratively placed everywhere. There were several trees, but only one held a bench beneath it and hung birdhouses. And that was all without mentioning the building itself with vines carefully drawn in and guided to cover its walls in an intricately delicate design. “What a beautiful home.” 

“We aren’t here for sightseeing. I brought you for a reason. Isn’t this what you wanted?” He started as he approached the home. His right hand lifted to the door as he sipped from his pipe. The crackle of leaves leaving an aroma on the air akin to autumn and citrus before her turned to look at him. “I’ll say it again. Focus, Fovey. Or else I’d be better off without you here.” Then his hand would knock calmly at the door. 

First there would be silence; then the muffled sound of voices within. Shortly after footsteps would approach the door, and a single voice could be heard from the opposite side much closer. “It’s probably just the neighbor’s kids here for some vegetables,” they’d heard just before the door swung open, and they were met with the visage of a rather odd sight. A male who wasn’t overly muscular with a face like a model, but it all made sense when they picked up on the scent of saffron among several other things. It smelled as if a meal were underway. The warming scent of spices and herbs among cooking meats and desserts in the process of baking. It was reminiscent of family in every sense of the word. “Can I help you, Woxia?” 

“Indeed, you may. I am Investigator, although names for someone like me mean very little.” A pause between the two before the order claimant’s brow rose. “May we enter?” 

“Yes! Of course! Apologies. My wife often has to remind me that I’m very standoffish,” he spoke as he stepped aside to welcome them in. “Honestly I feel I’ll never get used to mortal customs.” 

“There’s no need to apologize. I can relate, although likely for different reasons. We must always strive to better ourselves in that regard.” He started as he stepped into the home with the Fovey following behind him. 

“Thank you for welcoming us.” His voice would catch the Rhihon’s attention. 

“Ah! A Fovey! It isn’t everyday your two houses work together.” 

“You’re right about that. It is… quite the change of pace.” He responded with a smile. 

“Don’t let him push you around or he’ll never stop.” The Woxia scoffed at their banter before preparing himself to speak, but before he could the Rhihon would continue. “Come! Join us for lunch! My wife was nearly finished preparing a meal.” 

“Thank you. We appreciate the hospitality.” The Woxia responded before the two followed behind him. 

The home itself wasn’t anything outrageous on the inside. It looked like the typical cottage, although the craftsmanship made it obvious that experts had put the place together from the ground up. Hand crafted furniture, a choice of less emphasis on electrical appliances, plants and flowers scattered around in pots, and a subtle warmth which filled the house from a single well-maintained fireplace. The only way he could describe the home was comfy, and no place made that more obvious than the kitchen. Almost too rustic, with open flames and classic ovens providing a surge in heat. Shelves covered with ingredients and windows allowing a gentle breeze to flow through and mix every scent into a blend of diversity. It warmed his very heart, but nothing prepared them for the most eye-catching factor. 

Tending to every single dish being prepared was a single woman whose hands moved from place to place with precision and expertise. She dressed like what anyone would expect from the typical old fashioned rural wife, but her face was immediately eye catching. Black stretching down her head and back, skin a soft shade of pale amber with warmer reddened shoulders, and when she turned to see them, her cheeks were the exact same. Her eyes were two dark grey orbs. So much so that in low light they could be confused as being pure black, and the area around her eyes held a subtle hue of crimson as if makeup had been applied, although it obviously hadn’t. Her smile, however, was so welcoming it was difficult to even imagine hating her. 

“My! Are these friends of yours, dear?” Her voice sang like a low tune in their ears. 

“I wouldn’t say that. This is the first time I’ve met either of them. No need to feign ignorance, they’re both claimants like me.” He started as he approached her and stood by her side. “As I’m sure you can both tell, my wife is a normal human. I’d like to ask you take that into consideration when interacting with her.” 

“Of course. That goes without saying.” The Woxia responded. 

“Yes. We understand.” The Fovey added. 

“Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you both. My name is Daiaya, but you can just call me Dai. I’m sure my husband has forgotten to introduce himself, but he goes by Woevain.” 

“It is quite alright,” the investigator responded. “I go by the name Investigator. However, it will be simpler if you just refer to me as Iven.” He shifted his hand and motioned towards the Fovey. “This is my current partner. Lodenthale.” 

“Just Lo is fine,” he’d add as she approached the two with a smile. 

“Well again, Iven and Lo, it is a pleasure to meet the both of you.” She’d respond while offering a hand. 

It was a simple action. A common action. One which was used far too many times and in far too many places to ever consider it suspicious. And yet, when Iven reached forward and her own hand moved to meet him, Lo’s hand reached out and grabbed ahold of her wrist. A twist would have her hand raised in the air, and a wince would accompany her elbow nearly being popped from its socket. When Iven looked, he would see a more than serious expression on both Lo and Woevain’s faces, but the Fovey did not budge for a moment. It wasn’t until the Rhihon spoke that he would even begin to register his actions entirely. 

“What’s the meaning of this?” The Rhihon would demand with freshly livid eyes. 

“Ah.” The Fovey would start as he quickly released her. “Sorry about that.” 

“You must forgive my comrade. He’s a very careful individual, and he spent a lot of time fighting in the wars of old. These types of interactions are not his specialty.” The Woxia said mostly to quell the Rhihon. 

The fire claimant scoffed. “Just make certain he controls himself in my home.” 

“Of course.” Iven’s eyes turned to the Fovey before he spoke again. “Go wait outside. I won’t take long here. Get some fresh air and at least try to be calm. The last thing we need is you panicking.” 

“Yes… of course.” Lo responded before turning and exiting the building. He didn’t feel sorry for what he’d done at all, and there was an obvious reason for that. They’d come to this place looking for someone specific, and that person was known for being difficult to deal with and prone to utilizing underhanded tactics to get what they want. He’d call it caution, but to others it would of course just be disrespect and violence. Either way, it didn’t matter. If the battles between houses he’d taken part in had taught him anything, it would be to only trust his instincts. 

Now that he was outside of the building, he’d take the opportunity to look around the property. The first thing he’d noticed was the variety of plants growing all around. Herbs both for cooking and medical use. Spices of many types to flavor any meal and vegetables of a wide assortment. Only one tree held fruit, and that fruit would be green apples, but the flowers were what caught his eyes. Their colors were truly captivating, and while some gave off sweet scents, others were much deeper in their intricacies and undertones. However, within it all, three flowers stood out the most. Wolfsbane, moonflower, autumn crocus, wisteria, and lily of the valley. While not uncommon for gardening, it was odd to have such a large assortment of toxic plants in one place. Enough so that maneuvering through the gardener itself could prove dangerous. 

His attention was only pulled away when a voice caught his attention from behind. “I hope I didn’t offend you in some way.” His head would spin on a swivel to find Daiaya approaching but stopping a comfortable distance away. “My husband often tells me I’m bad at greetings.” 

“No. The fault lies with me. I should control myself better.” He responded. 

“It’s difficult to find comfort in new places and new people. I won’t pry.” 

“Why are you not with the other two?” He’d ask with a curious glare. 

“Well, you know how it goes. There are certain things claimants talk about that humans can’t be a part of. I decided to clear the air with you instead. You know, be productive with time.” 

“I see.” He paused and turned his attention to the sky. A single bird flying overhead before landing in one of the birdhouses hanging from a branch beneath the largest tree. “Several of your flowers are quite dangerous.” 

“You noticed! Honestly, my husband finds me weird for keeping them. To a claimant they’re nothing, but to a human... they could destroy you. There’s a form of comfort I find in such plants.” She spoke as she approached the wisterias and inspected their flowers with a gentle touch. “Easily viewed as dangerous or even hated, but they’re simply trying to survive in peace.” 

“Peace?” He’d ask with a raised brow. 

“Yes. Everyone and everything wants for their own standard. Comfort. Relaxation without worry. Some may call it other things, but I choose to call it peace.” 

“I think I understand.” He’d respond as he watched her inspect the plants with careful, caring eyes. 

“Lodenthale.” The Woxia’s voice grasped his attention as he turned to see him passing through the door. “We are done here. Let’s be on our way.” 

“Alright.” Lo would respond before immediately going to the Woxia’s side without another word between himself and Dai. He would note her expression as he walked away, as if she were somewhat saddened by his choice to offer no farewell, but he would not go back on that choice. When the Rhihon exited the building behind the Woxia his expression was openly hostile towards him, but he didn’t much care for that either. They weren’t enemies. All he needed to do was watch as Iven offered a farewell to the both of them before they left the property and went along their way. Moving back towards the rest of the village and specifically waiting until they were far enough away to conclude that the Rhihon wouldn’t be able to hear them. 

“What did you see?” Iven would ask. 

“What?” 

“You’d have had no reason to grab that woman the way you did unless you’d seen something. What was it?” The Fovey hesitated to respond but eventually answered. 

“I saw nothing. It was instinct.” 

“Instinct?” The Woxia confirmed his response. 

“Yes. The way she moved to meet your hand… something about it didn’t sit right with me. Like there was some ulterior motive.” 

“And you’re sure about that?” 

Lo thought about the situation for a moment before giving the best answer. “I can’t say for certain when nothing happened, but my instincts haven’t failed me yet. I don’t trust that woman.” 

“Good. That’s one thing we agree on.” He started as he shifted the pipe between his lips. “I had my suspicions when you reacted the way you did, but they were confirmed when she chose to meet with you outside on her own. Normally a human wouldn’t be nearly as bold as to meet with a claimant who showed them hostility, and especially not alone.” 

“Perhaps being married to one supplies her with that courage.” Lo speculated. 

“I doubt that, but you may be right to assume such a thing. Either way our work here isn’t done.” 

“We’re not moving on?” 

Iven reached into his coat and pulled out a small envelope. “I booked a room for us in the local hotel. Or I suppose it’s more of an inn in this backwater town. I don’t trust this place, and I especially don’t trust that woman.” He said as he handed the slip of paper to the Fovey. 

His eyes examined it before taking and reading every line. Of course this was the type of thing an order claimant would have dealt with beforehand. “Then I will start handling things on my end. I will meet you there later.” 

“Indeed. And do try not to assault anymore women. Suspicious or not, show some subtlety and class.” 

Lo sighed. A final glare before leaving to do his work. “Sure.” 

Waking Forgotten Evils

Part 2

Two days passed by quietly. The simple hustle and bustle of typical everyday life in the small town carried on in as normal a way as it could possibly ever proceed. The sound of children’s voices outside the window as they passed by playing their games. Adults conversing about local issues and matters that no one outside of the area would ever know or even really care to know. The occasional vehicle passing by, mostly mopeds or other forms of scooters and small cars, along with passing individuals of particularly certain distinction. A man selling several different forms of items which could only be procured outside of the region, an elderly woman showing up with carriages full of produce from a nearby farm and orchard, and a lady the local children would call a witch while the adults referred to her as an apothecary or a healer. However, it was on the third day that something had finally changed. 

The door to the room where the Woxia had been staying creaked open. His head turned just before the conversation began. “Iven,” the Fovey started. “I’m back.” 

“So, you’ve returned. I haven’t seen you since we split up three days ago, and I assume you’ve come to me because you’ve found something.” 

“Yes. Although you won’t be pleased to hear it. That much I can assure.” Lo responded while approaching and sitting on an open chair. “I’ve been wandering, more or less, and interacting with the surrounding fauna. The birds caught my attention.” 

“And?” Iven inquired while placing his pipe between his lips. 

“We may be in over our heads.” He spoke while placing a sheet of paper down with what could easily be confused with unintelligible scrawling. “I kept track of the schedules the avians gave me. The day we arrived, after we left, the woman… Daiaya… she tied a message to one of the birds that lives in one of the birdhouses and sent it away.” He paused for a moment. “That bird never returned.” 

“What exactly is that supposed to mean?” 

“Exactly how it sounds. The creature never returned. However, yesterday evening, a crow arrived. The description I was given stated it came with a full letter in its talons. After she retrieved the letter it left immediately after in the same direction of the first bird.” He looked visibly disturbed for a moment before he continued. “Luckily, she read this letter outside. Of course, the bird could not read it and pass along the message to me.” 

Iven looked at him with a sharp gaze. It was clear that he knew something and was attempting to avoid giving him a straight answer. Why, he did not know. But his duty was clear. “Tell me. Now.” 

Lo stared at him with an unwavering glare. Then he spoke without breaking that eye contact. “Even without the words I knew its origin from the description. The parchment was black, ink red, and it was enclosed by a wax seal.” 

“Black parchment… red ink… someone who still uses wax seals?” His eyes widened and his face went pale. “The manor?!” 

“I also couldn’t think of anyone else who sends such letters.” 

“This changes a lot. It doesn’t answer any questions, but it brings an entirely different beast into play. Did you learn anything else?” 

Lo stood from his position and looked as if he was prepared to leave immediately. “After learning that I went to go see for myself, and it seems she’s been making preparations to leave.” 

“Damnit. This certainly changes things.” He spoke as he began shuffling through files stacked on the tables he’d been using as an impromptu desk. “She clearly knows something, and she’s clearly preparing for something, but what that is we do not know. We can at least tie her to Lilith’s manor faction, which complicates things, but if she is suspicious of us then we can’t stay here. It’s a risk we can’t take.” He stopped when he found a certain document and tucked it into his pocket. “Gather anything you can’t leave behind. If she’s leaving, then we follow.” 

“You’re willing to take that risk?” Lo asked. 

“Don’t take me for a fool. If I don’t then you’ll just go without me, and I can’t have you cutting off any leads to my investigation!” He responded in a clearly irate tone. “Listen to me, Lodenthale. I have a responsibility, a duty, and a purpose. You may have a grudge, but this comes before that. We each have our own reasons for finding Xiyini. Mine comes before yours. Remember that.” 

“…of course.” 

“If you understand then prepare yourself. We have work to do.” 

— 

The moon rose overhead with an almost solemn element to it. The birds did not sing, the crickets did not chirp, and nor did the wind blow to rustles the grass and leaves. Cursed silence. Cherished silence. Detestable silence! And it was in that silence that the rhythmic steps of horse hooves and carriage wheels approached amid the rolling fog and deep shadows. The steeds themselves were black as night with wraps covering their eyes, as if they existed for the sole purpose of placing their entire trust into the one guiding them, and that very guide was clearly one of the esteemed servants of the manor. Lilith’s own chosen designated servants hand-picked by none other than their supreme overseer, Monoterra Testua, the Noble Demon. 

His suit was black, his shoes were black, the shirt underneath a deep crimson, and the bow tie holding the collar closed was black as well. A mask covering only the top half of his face, crafted from an oddly red metal, hid even their eyes behind it, but it clearly did not interfere with sight. He stepped down from the carriage, its black frame and golden metal accents illuminated only by the lantern hanging from its side with a soft red glow, and the crimson drapes within kept its interior entirely hidden. He fixed the crimson cotton gloves over his fingers as his gait was as formal as it could possibly be, and the moment he reached the front entrance to the home, he knocked with care and elegance. Not too loud, not too soft; just right. And after only a few seconds, he’d reach down and open the door himself while stepping aside with a distinctly reverent bow. 

“Your transport has arrived, my lady.” The words slipped from pale lips. 

“Thank you. I know this was sudden, but I’ve been meaning to visit. Will the journey be long?” Daiaya responded. 

“Of course not, my lady. You are expected, after all. Our steeds will prove capable of substantially reducing our travel time.” 

“I appreciate that. Then let’s go.” 

“Of course.” He’d respond while offering her a hand which she would carefully take hold of. 

Stepping out of the home would display a dress of extreme quality. Almost too much quality to ever expect from someone living in the area she currently lives in. All the frills and parts one might expect from the renaissance Lilith was most known for finding joy in. A crimson dress with white accents and a black corset to hold it all in place. Exposed shoulders revealing a more modern and revealing take on the norm, and that was what exposed the purpose behind it. Humans were often allowed in Lilith’s home for only a few purposes. One was their loyalty, another their desires and ability to satisfy the desires of others, but most importantly was their blood. Lilith’s blood was boundless and bound those who lacked the resistance to it and her, but it was not an endless supply so long as she was not present. That meant reliance on other sources was required, and claimants were often quite stingy with such things. 

The servant led her to the carriage and opened the door to reveal a completely furnished interior. No lights, but clearly in perfect condition and containing a place where wine rested and perishables that could last for quite some time. Once she’d entered and sat, a single wave of the hand would have him bow once more and shut the door. Then, with the same grace, he would reclaim his position at the head of the carriage before a single moment passed, and a whispered set of words would have the steeds begin to move. The carriage itself almost seemed to glide across the ground, and yet it would not be an issue to follow. That was what the Fovey was brought along for, after all. 

“Let’s go.” The investigator would command. 

“Right. Remain out of sight; if things pick up, I’ll take care of things from there.” Lo responded. 

Following the carriage was simple for two claimants. Regardless of its speed it wouldn’t prove to be some impossible feat… or at least that was the case until it reached the edge of the town. The servant would finally put the reigns to use, as if he’d just begun to actually control the creatures at the helm, but the moment the crack was heard they’d increase their speed, and their trajectory would curve upward. Their steps engulfed in darkness and their steps changing from the typical clacking to heavy thuds as they lifted the carriage into the air and tripled their speed. Then quadrupled that, until they were running across the dark night sky on a trail of shadows. 

“It’s time,” Lo said as he leapt into the air, coiling himself in his arms before being wrapped in feathers. Those arms then unfurled to reveal his shape changed. The visage of a large owl with a large, serrated beak and feathers of deep greens and tan. His eyes were a silvery orange as he hovered forward where the investigator would leap upward and grab hold of, not his talons, but instead a chain wrapped uncomfortably around it. They did not ascend to heights which would reveal them, but just high enough to keep them from being noticed as they continued to tail the carriage now speeding through the air. 

“This will no doubt lead us to Lilith’s manor. Once we arrive, allow me to handle all the talking.” The Woxia started. “Authority means very little there. Not even ancients are necessarily welcome without an invitation, although it’s not a place any ancients with a decent mind would find themselves visiting.” 

“You say that like ancients adhere to the same rules as us,” Lo responded. His voice more errant and sinister. 

“It’s not about the rules, but about decency. Perhaps morality. An ancient is more than free to visit the manor, and they’d likely be more than welcome to do so, but many of Lilith’s loyal are there for purposes which directly combat the ancients, you see.” He paused as his attention returned to the carriage. “That place is a no man’s land. Once you enter you essentially abandon the graces granted to you by the realms.” 

“So it’s about the risk, then.” 

“Indeed. If you enter as a regular claimant, you might have an enemy or two inside. If you’re important enough, you may have a faction against you. An ancient, however, depending on the one… could easily have half the entire building against them.” 

“Like Naiick?” Lo would ask. 

“Against popular belief, Naiick isn’t nearly as hated by the claimants as most expect. A sly opportunist only really acts on opportunity. People tend to hate those who give those opportunities more. For instance, one of Lilith’s most powerful confidants is a claimant known as Matterrax. She was one of the first of the Excia, and she hates no one in this world more than Novevu. She doesn’t even care about Naiick in comparison, and she holds the sole position of Lilith’s military general.” 

“And?” 

“Are you a fool?” The investigator started. “Everyone in that place is known for loyalty. Anyone loyal to Matterrax is loyal to the core, and loyal to her cause. If she fights, they fight. If she dies, they’re willing to avenge at any cost. If Novevu showed up and she chose to confront him, he’d end up confronting Lilith’s entire military force, her entire Red Legion, claimants and humans alike who live for the cause. Not to mention anyone else who is loyal to Matterrax, and if any of the others who share her rank get involved… well, let’s just say it can easily spiral into an all-out conflict of the manor against whatever ancient chose to decide to show up. Meanwhile, ancients such as Evyette and Quinnox would likely be fine.” 

“A den of lunatics designed for the purpose, huh? It sounds like something she’d do, to say the very least.” Lo would respond with an inquisitive stare ahead. 

“Everyone assumes Lilith’s greatest strength is her blood and how it binds people to her, but that’s not the case.” He started while placing his hand on the sword dangling at his side. “The blood is more like a test, and a contract. The real thing that makes Lilith dangerous is how quickly she can make others vow their loyalty to her. Loyalty is her greatest weapon.” He said as his eyes narrowed when seeing the manor in the distance. “And we aren’t among them.” 

“That means very little. Our purpose is clear.” 

“Purpose or not, we cannot afford to make enemies here. We only need answers; we do not need confrontation. Follow my lead and control yourself.” 

“…of course.” 

The moment they began to reach a certain distance of the manor it was like color ceased to function, and once they entered that zone they were entirely engulfed in darkness. Lo could still see clearly, his orange eyes capable of piercing through the unnatural darkest night, but the investigator could only spot the glowing windows in the distance as their pace slowed to a more cautious and considerable calm. Their silent and slow approach being just enough for them to view the carriage slow down and descend to the ground. The steeds were barely even visible until they entered the red illumination from the windows glass panes, then the servant dismounted the moment they came to a halt. 

He circled the carriage as he had done before and opened the door as he had done before. His hand offered, his hand received, and Daiaya would then be led to the front entrance of the building where the duo’s first hurdle would present itself. Only one guard watched the door, but that guard was clearly one of Lilith’s knights. On days when events were held it was normal for servants to welcome visitors, such as during the gala, but on a more normal day such as this a knight clad in pure golden armor with a blood red cape and tabard watches over the door with halberd in hand. He stepped aside when the servant approached and watched as Daiaya was led inside, but the moment the servant returned to the carriage, the knight returned to his position directly in front of the door. It was only when the servant led the carriage away that they began their descent. 

“It’s time. Be ready.” Lo warned. 

“I know that. Just remember what I said and let me do the speaking.” He spoke as they descended to the area most open in front of the manor. 

First, the investigator was dropped off, then Lo would land before his wings coiled around himself again. A moment before his arms swung outward, and the feathers scattered to reveal the claimant back to normal. The moment they began to approach the main door they could see the knight’s hand tighten around the length of his weapon. “State your business, wretches.” His voice echoed from within the helmet. Forceful, irate, and hostile. 

“We mean no disrespect, Queen’s knight. We only wish to follow up on an investigation I am currently undertaking.” 

“Investigation? Insolence! Give me a good reason to not desecrate you two where stand?” They could see his glowing red eyes peering just between the visor of his helmet. “An overconfident Woxia and a filthy Fovey? You dare to assume I’d let that animal traipse it's disgusting paws through these halls?” 

“As I said, we mean no disrespect. We merely wish to follow up on an important investigation. If we are not allowed to enter, we shall gladly take our leave.” Investigator responded. 

“Silence! It’s an insult to my lady that you would even dare assume you could walk these halls with that animal!” Words accompanied by the blunt end of his halberd slamming against the brick ground atop the stairs leading to the door. A flash of light, a bright crimson glow below his feet before building into a surge of light gathering at the blade of his weapon. 

“A Contus?” Lo uttered under his breath upon realizing that this was a real knight before them. He prepared himself to intercept as he watched the halberd lift from the ground and overhead, then… 

“Hm? Yes, sir! The knight started as if beginning a conversation with someone they could not hear. A pause before he spoke again. “Are you certain of this?” He’d ask the unknown. His halberd thankfully lowered to the ground once more as the crimson light dissipated from it. A growl from within his helm before his final response. “Yes, my lord. I will do as you command.” Another pause as his stare solidified into less malice and more discontent. Untrustworthy disgust. “You have been permitted to enter, it seems.” He spoke as he stepped aside and offered them the door. 

The Woxia nearly let out a sigh of relief as he lowered his head gracefully. “We thank you for the opportunity.” 

“Do not thank me, Woxia. Not yet. Conduct yourselves properly within these halls and do not cause a disturbance.” His words met them as they approached and opened the door. The investigator stepped inside first, the Fovey following behind him, but as he passed by the knight, he spoke very clear and serious words. “At the first sign of your misconduct, I will make an obelisk of your bones and blood for my lady. Remember that Fovey.” 

The door shut behind them, and his heart stopped pounding in his chest the moment they were out of the Contus’ sight, but that panic soon became an awesome dread when his attention turned into the manor. It was a first time visit for the both of them, but the Woxia did not seem nearly as awestruck as he was. The interior was what he’d come to expect from places where only real royalty could be found, and in some aspects, it went beyond even what the ancients could call their own personal homes. Furnished beyond comparison and designed with the intention to captivate. Lights which left hues of red within them left everything awash in an almost devilish tone, but that did not take away from its decadence and beauty. Every servant moving with grace, every patron much the same, and yet it all felt so oddly casual. 

“Welcome.” Their eyes were drawn in by a German accent and high-pitched voice accompanied by the clicking of heels. Upon turning to find the source they would be met with what was deceptively a woman’s face accompanied by a slim figure in winter clothing, but that was exactly why the investigator knew who this was. 

“Thank you for having us. I am Investigator Woxia and this is Lodenthal Fovey.” He would bow, and seeing it, Lo would follow suit. “Am I correct in assuming you are Addinia Desdon?” 

“Oho? You are… well informed. You have come for your investigation, yes?” He started while shifting his weight to one side. 

“Indeed. Will you be escorting us, sir?” 

“Escort? Hah! Noble und ignorant. You think I would lower myself to guide? Of course not. I merely came to warn you to remain in line. I am head of security for the manor, und as such I am Head of Lilith’s Manor Knights. Stay out of trouble und you will not have to deal with me. Hopefully I don’t have to see you again.” He said before turning and walking away while offering a few final words. “It is customary for me to greet visitors, but not for me to keep you alive. Tread carefully, Investigator.” 

The Fovey could not help but feel as if it were all just a game to him, but that was typical. Addinia’s exploits had made it more than clear what type of person he was, and more impotently what type of Desdon he was. The type to enjoy murder and the subsequent resulting death which accompanied it. He found art within death, which made him outrageously dangerous to anyone he set his sights on. Thankfully that conversation made it obvious that he did not care for them at all, but it also revealed that the rumors were true. If it weren’t for the investigator, he’d have likely mistaken him for a woman and gotten killed for it like others had apparently done in the past. The discomfort of looming death only vanished when he was out of sight, and that was when the investigator began to speak to him. 

“We split up here. I should not have to tell you to watch what you do and say.” He said with a slightly nervous expression. “We’ve been given some freedom, but that alone is dangerous. Your task is to find the woman. I will ask around for some answers.” 

“Alright. If I learn anything I’ll find you.” He paused for a moment. A memory flashed across his mind before he spoke unnatural words. “Be careful.” 

“I should be saying that to you. Keep your cool. No matter what you hear or see.” 

“…of course.” He responded before the Woxia disappeared into the crowds of people, but that alone made a question appear in his mind. 

It was odd. Too odd. A visit so sudden, a knight at the door rather than the servants which would normally be posted outside for an event, but the main hall and connecting corridors were bustling with people. All well dressed and noble in nature, but that made no sense. What could possibly be happening that would call for such a thing? Was the manor known for holding private events like this? From what he’d known and what most others knew the manor made a purpose of making dates and times of events public knowledge because only the invited would show up anyway. Them or those who had the standing to simply arrive and be expected to be let inside, but he and the investigator were not those types of people. He’d fought in battles involving Lilith, so he knew he wasn’t up to snuff for that type of appraisal, or she’d have approached him personally already. 

For now, that was what he’d focus on. And if his intuition was correct then it would connect him to what he was looking for… who he was looking for. If that woman was invited to a secret event at the manor, then she was no doubt someone of extreme importance, and that would mean his intuition upon meeting her was entirely spot on. His eyes narrowed, his mind narrowed, and his purpose narrowed. So, he approached one of the patrons, as much as he felt it was a crazy choice to make, and upon getting close enough to speak he would begin. “Excuse me, but might I ask for a favor?” 

“What?” The male he’d approached laughed in a confused way. “What could I possibly help you with, Fovey? Other than your stench and those rags?” 

“That was, heh, actually exactly what I was hoping for…” 

“Wait. You’re serious? I suppose you’re new here and didn’t take the dress code seriously. Well, I suppose it also can’t be helped.” He looked around before spotting one of the servants and calling out to them. “You! Excuse me!” The servant paused, his head turning towards them with the same mask as the previous servant they had trailed, but this time words came from dark amber lips beneath a silver mask covering the eyes and nose. 

“Yes, sir. How may I be of assistance?” He’d inquire. 

“This one is new, the pathetic wretch. It seems he was unprepared, as you can likely see. Would you be capable of offering him the basic attire and grooming?” 

The servant’s head turned to him. Eyes hidden behind the mask, but he still seemed to look him up and down as if examining every single detail before responding. “Of course. Come with me, sir. The servants shall take care of you before the event begins.” 

So there is an event. “Thank you. I, uh, appreciate the kindness.” 

“There’s no need for thanks. As a servant, I am simply doing as I must. Now please, follow me.” 

He’d look around one more time, his eyes not spotting anything or anyone that particularly stood out. However, as he turned his attention to following behind the servant, a pair of dreadful eyes stared down at him from the balcony above. A smile as sharp as knives, and intentions worse than what most could imagine. Then a light chuckle called on the attention of the person standing at her side. They did not speak or interrupt their sudden show of joy, but they couldn’t help but feel at ease seeing it. That chuckle continuing as if involuntary and unstable, but before it turned to outright laughter it stopped. Their lips curled downward into a frown, then those dreadful eyes watched as the Fovey left their sights. 

“Peace… huh?” 

Waking Forgotten Evils

Part 3

When he emerged from the room he’d been taken to, his new attire reflected the skill of the manor’s servants. The treatment itself was far better than he had expected it to be for what was, in essence, a ragtag collective of claimants and humans. Lilith truly settled for nothing less than the best, and that was obvious when the first thing he encountered was several servants who first bathed him, then measured him, and finally tailored a brand-new outfit for him to wear. A tuxedo in the same browns and greens he had previously been wearing. It was quite the experience to be served by so many women, even if their eyes were covered like all the other servants and they moved like machines of service. Their only sign of agitation was when they could not remove the shackle around his right wrist and the dangling chain which accompanied it. They did, however, make it entirely spotless and polished. 

He had no idea how to properly thank them, so instead he would leave them with a simple phrase. “I… uh… appreciate it.” Words they would respond to with a formal bow. One of them spoke in a casually formal tone when their cherry lips parted. 

“It is our pleasure to serve. Now please proceed to the main hall.” It was odd to consider people in Lilith’s charge enjoying a life of servitude. 

He nodded, then corrected himself and offered an awkward bow before making his way back from where he’d come. Each step felt more comfortable than the last one. Even with such clothing it managed to feel like a second layer of skin over his own. He could only come up with compliments in his head for Lilith’s tailors and seamstresses, but he refocused his mind the moment it came into view. The large doors which had been left open were where everyone had previously been standing. The investigator would no doubt be found inside if there was meant to be some form of event taking place, but what that event was he could not guess. All he could do now was enter and hope for answers. 

His task was to find the woman, and so he kept his eyes peeled as he rounded the corner and entered the room. No one really cared to look his way or offer him any particular attention, but he didn’t know whether to feel pleased or uncomfortable in that regard. He could tell just from being in their presence that the claimants in these halls were of an entirely different breed compared to what he knew. They carried themselves in a manner which exuded confidence even when they did not look to be the most capable. As if they could obliterate anyone at any moment, or at least they truly felt they could. That was why he chose not to sit and not to leave his back open to anyone. Moving to an empty wall and leaning against it. 

His eyes wandered, and his nose consistently tested the air, hoping to pick up some trail or clue, but all he could smell was the many houses and the thick scent of blood. It made him sick. Sick enough to vomit, or at least until a voice demanded everyone’s attention. 

“Welcome, esteemed patrons of the manor!” A female voice carried across the entire hall. It was sly, almost too sly, and hissed with almost every other word. “Tonight I shall be acting as your host! The gracious, intelligent and beautiful Kel-Anna Fovey.” His eyes widened at the very mention of the name. If his memory served him, Kel-Anna was a rightful lunatic among his house. Murder and slayer of men, woman and children. She was supposed to be on a steady dosage of medication created by Florita to keep those urges in check, but it seemed like she had clearly begun ignoring it at some point. That or its effectiveness had worn off. “Tonight we have a special performance! A visit from an old performer Lilith enjoyed! Now please… enjoy yourselves.” 

A shiver raced up his spine. For a moment, and only a moment, it felt as if the woman’s snakelike eyes locked onto him like prey when she spoke those last words. As if they were fully directed at him, but that couldn’t be right. He clapped his hands in applause just as everyone else did and stopped just as they all stopped. Murmurs quieting to silence as the lights in the hall dimmed until the room was blanketed in a darkness so deep only a shaded red hue coated everything enough to barely allow others to see. His eyes attuned to that darkness and he watched as a woman wearing a mask over her face and a very particular type of outfit took a position with a violin in hand with a few other musicians, and then a spotlight beamed down on a specific location of the room to reveal the person he had been looking for. Daiaya made her way from a side door and stopped only once she reached the center of the room. 

His eyes narrowed and his mind calmed. He’d found his target, but this wasn’t the time or place to act. There were too many people around and if she was indeed a part of what was to come then no one would take kindly to him acting out of line… but then the musicians began to play. Strings plucking from an assortment of stringed instruments before a single violin took the lead above the rest. It was the instrument in the hands of the one masked woman among the servants acting as the other musicians, but the lights did not focus on them. The spotlight remained on Daiaya who had now begun her dance. A routine which he noticed brought smiles to the faces of everyone around him, but that only served to make him uncomfortable. As if they were not hearing and seeing the same things he was experiencing. 

Its first moment began, and it seemed cheerful, but the notes began to drift downward into a more somber, melancholic melody. With that melody her movements only seemed to twist and contort in a way which made her flowing dress almost seem as if it weren’t meant to accompany such an elaborate movement, but it wasn’t the dress which caught his eyes. It was her movements. They were purposefully stiff yet flexibly mobile in a way which made it seem as if each movement were pained and strained. When a flute and piano joined the other instruments and the orchestra began to use their bows, it made the song almost feel mystical in a way, but the tone eluded secrecy and currents of discretion. Her dance, however, continued in a way which almost felt sorrowful and unsteady. Uneasy. 

When the masked woman’s violin and the piano picked up the lead, her dance became a far more distinct and intricate performance. A representation he could only pair with the word “awakening”, and his ears picked up on the subtle conversations of those around him. 

“It’s always a treat to be allowed the opportunity to see one of these dances.” 

“I agree. Her movements are so definitive and refined.” 

“Another spectacular performance done by the musicians as well. Virr is truly an unparalleled talent with the art of composition.” 

“A shame it was such a sudden event.” That comment attracted his attention the most. 

“I know. The others will likely be displeased to know they missed this one.” 

His mind raced as the instruments all began to race alongside one another on a beautiful rise. A crescendo alongside the strain of his thoughts. Was this a sudden thing? Did she personally call for this, or had it been planned beforehand? If it had been planned, were we possibly mistaken? Damnit, I don’t understand. And where is the investigator? He should have found his way here by now! How could he even manage to avoid this? 

With his thoughts finalizing themselves, so too did the performance end in a way which felt almost too abrupt. Daiaya was now left standing in the center of the room with heavy breaths. Her dance had become far more twisted and intricate with every rising note and passing moment, as if the finale had been led by her pace, but that was apparently to be expected as the room erupted into applause. The woman would bow along with the musicians, a performance he too found himself clapping for only to remain among the crowds… but then she raised her hand and began to speak. 

“I thank you all, ladies and gentlemen, claimants and humans alike, for allowing me to once again perform for you all. However, the second half of my performance is going to begin soon!” Murmurs quickly began across the entire room. 

“There’s more?” 

“Oh! This is new!” 

“I’ve never seen her do multiple parts of a performance. Can a human handle that much strain here?” 

“I wonder what this could be.” 

“I hope it isn’t anything crazy. There’s more than enough of that to deal with on a regular basis.” 

“I can’t wait to see this!” 

She’d smile before throwing her hands outward to her sides, as if offering herself up to everyone in attendance. “Please, I only require a single moment to prepare. My partner will be stepping forward shortly.” She spoke before reaching into the space between her cleavage and from it pulling out a full bouquet of roses. So many there was no possible way it could have been hidden within that space. Then, with a single phrase, she tossed it into the air above. “This is my gift.” 

The petals scattered like leaves from a withered tree against a torrent of strong gales. Filling the air above them all as the bouquet twirled above in a shower of red. His attention returned to her along with everyone else only to find her body having lowered into a fancy bow. Her right foot stepping forward and crossing over her left, her body bending forward at the waist as her left hand extended back and her right crossed over her chest with its palm facing upward directly beside the left of her head. The very action made him beyond uneasy, but not nearly as much as when her head alone lifted to show her eyes now locked onto him. Singling him out from everyone else in attendance at the very same moment he’d expected the bouquet along with its scattered petals to fall around her… but instead the only thing which fell was the investigator’s head into her open hand. 

“Now!” Her words echoed across the room with a flourish of excitement and anticipation. Lo immediately rushed forward through the crowd with all caution thrown to the wind upon seeing the state of his comrade. “Let the second half begin!” 

The chain wrapped around his wrist glowed with primal energy. Like fire solidified into steel, and when his arm swung back, so too did the chain. Its length extended like a whip of metal before being cast forward and slamming downward onto his target. Daiaya did not dodge. She didn’t even attempt to avoid it. The floor taking the full brunt of the impact where marble and stone shattered in a line leading from its end to his body, and her body having been severed in half fell to the cold floor. Blood fanning outward in a whirlwind of rose petals before leaving the entire room distorted… if it could even be called that anymore. 

The patrons who’d been watching this odd turn of events eyeing their surroundings. The walls, the manor, the very area had become an endless field of red flowers beneath a starry night sky. The moon overhead full and bright. So bright in fact that it was now brighter than it had been inside of the manor! He did not drop his guard; he did not release the tension which had taken him, but that only made the next part more naturally terrifying. “Story time!” Daiaya’s voice made him turn to his side to see that woman standing there unharmed. A smile on her face, twisted and unsettling, as if mania had overtaken her entirety. “Long ago, in the distant past, there was a man who sought nothing more than relaxation.” 

“I won’t play your games! You will answer my questions!” He responded with another swing of his chain. It connected with his target, but when it did, there was no splatter of blood. She merely burst into a plume of flower petals again. This time they were shades of blue, purple, and yellow. 

“No need to be stubborn,” her voice dragged his attention to another place where she now stood. “It’s simply,” his head turned again. “A matter of,” and again. “Patience.” Her voice coming from multiple locations. His eyes turning to see the woman lifting herself from the flowers in multiple places, approaching from the far distances, and emerging from within the crowd of patrons who continued to watch. Now interested, enamored… entertained. More and more emerged from everywhere until there were hundreds, and then they all began to speak in tandem. “My story won’t last long. I can assure you that it’s a simple tale.” 

“I don’t care for your wordplay.” His response was simple, and his attack was immediate. 

His weapon swung in all directions, his chain slamming and swooping everywhere it could, but no matter how many were cut down by his weapon, the numbers never ceased to end. 

“That man, longing for a peaceful and normal existence, chose a path of stubborn calm. It wasn’t that he did not know better, but rather he chose to be stubborn on purpose. Decency, morality, concepts of things people only bring up when it suits them. He did not care for such things and only wanted to personally live in peace. No conflict. No reason to forget himself... Only this is not a reality which allows for such things.” Her words continued as he continued to attempt destroying the multitude of her. “A world where so many bend the knee to beings called greater than themselves. It was only ever a matter of time before conflict found its way to his door. When a king or a lord or a ruler or a leader request that their subjects do their bidding, can a servant refuse? Not by the standards of his peers. That would make him a traitor! A failure! A disease that needs to be cut out! And so, he obliged and took up the proverbial sword.” 

The more time managed the pass, the more his actions had begun to feel meaningless in a way he did not understand. With each one his chain destroyed another three would replace it. What was once tens became hundreds, then thousands, and eventually all that could be seen was her encroaching from all directions. Each death bursting into those same shades, and the moon and stars above seemed to almost begin to blend and refract the same blue, yellow and purple colors in the beams of light shining down around them from above. It was endless. Ceaseless. No matter how much effort he put in, nothing seemed to be changing. 

“What is this?” He’d demand, but she would merely continue on as if his words had never been spoken. 

“He would take up arms and fight. Make the mistake of utilizing a deceny and morality others did not really value. Change his ways and set his mind to work for combat. His mind, his body, and even his voice would become a tool for defeating his enemies. And more than anything… he would find that it was what he excelled at.” Words every single one of her spoke at once, but for a moment they split and all spoke different things. 

“Deceitfulness.” 

“Corruption.” 

“Collusion.” 

“Incite.” 

“Crime.” 

“Plague.” 

“Hypocrisy.” 

“Plagiarism.” 

“Violence.” 

“Fraudulence.” 

“Coup d’état.” 

“Extremism.” 

“Simony.” 

“Exploitation.” 

Then they all spoke one word at once. “Indifference.” 

“Any and every terrible thing you could ever possibly imagine he found he excelled in without even trying! Almost like it was, in a way, nature!” Their voices all collected once more and spoke in tandem once again. As he continued to put them down. “A master of all things terrible. A saint of the vile and unsightly! A pariah of chaos in its most diabolical forms! Truly a marvel and a gift to those who call themselves his master! And yet…” 

He felt a sense of panic rising in his chest along with an aggravating tension. He wouldn’t be made to sit here and listen to this woman prattle on about tales of things which did not matter. And so, he swung his arm outward, and the chain glowed yet again. Its links multiplying until it had extended into a hefty shackle which spun into a whirlpool of violence. Whipping outward with a loud rattle, culling anything in its path, and swirling up into the air like a twister of energy and metal. Those same petals scattering around like a storm of remains… and yet, when those petals fell to the ground and coated what was once a field of red with a field of blue flowers, the once dark sky above now a sickly purple as the yellow moon shined above, he found himself staring directly at the woman again who still stood casually in front of him. Her expression now was far more distinct. Clearly irate and as if in a state of mourning. 

“Why won’t you die?” He demanded again, but she merely finished what she had been poised to say before his attack. 

“…he hated all of it. Hated it because it went against the ideal he sought. So, I will finish this story with a poem an old friend made in his name when your quarry vanished without a trace. A rhyme and a warning so many have forgotten, but it was coveted by his most avid enemies in the end.” Her words made his eyes widen. If she brought up the search, then that meant she knew his purpose here. That meant her husband had likely shared the information with her, but what could she possibly know? And what poem could possibly correlate to it? 

— 

“So that’s it? You’re really leaving just like that?” Woevain would ask her. 

Daiaya would simply sigh while adjusting her clothing over her body. She did not look pleased at all, but when she turned to look at him, her lighthearted smile did not match the rest of her expression at all. “You know what this was. Let’s not make it any more difficult than it needs to be.” 

“How could you say something like that?!” He would ask of her. “All this time? All those years? Did they just mean nothing to you?” 

“You know that’s not true, Woe. You know exactly how I feel.” 

“Then why?” 

“Because there’s no other choice!” Her voice snapped for a moment. An act which caused the male’s own expression to crack into disparity. He could count the times she’d raised her voice on a single hand, and even then, it would only need a single finger now. “I’m sorry. This wasn’t what I intended. Some things just can’t be avoided, it seems. It was like that in the past, and it seems I can’t escape it.” 

“They came here asking about someone named Xiyini… I know what we agreed on. If anyone ever showed up asking for him then our time together would end. Can’t we just ignore that?” 

His question was valid, and normally the response would be simple, but this time it wasn’t. So, she’d smile and give a simple answer anyway. “It’s not that easy. Besides, this brings danger to our door. The type of danger I won’t put you through.” 

“But what about love?” A question which broke her heart. Shattered it to pieces, and the reason was simple. 

“That’s why I must do this. I’ll always love you, dear. I promise you that. That was the commitment we made when we started all of this, and it’s because of that love that I’m not willing to put you in any form of danger… even if it means you forget.” 

“But I don’t want to forget.” 

“That’s another risk I’m unwilling to take. The Woxia has likely made reports, which means it’s possible they’ll follow up with you. If you remember anything then you’ll be liable for probing, and I won’t have any hands tampering with your mind and placing you in harm.” She said while placing her hands on his cheeks. “I’ve already taken care of the rest of the town. You’re the only one left.” 

“I refuse. I won’t let myself forget you no matter what happens.” He responded as tears began to well up in his eyes. 

Daiaya lowered her head for a moment, as if tempering her heart with steel before raising her head to him with a smile. “When we became a pair, I offered myself to you willfully and entirely. It was a promise that we made to one another. Didn’t you do the same thing?” 

“Yes. I’d never forget that.” 

“Then I’m sorry, but it’s already too late to refuse now.” She said before giving him a single kiss and whispering the words directly into his mind. “Forget it all. Forget everything. Especially me.” 

His vision blurred; his balance wavered. The final thing he saw being her hands lowering from his face and down to her sides before everything faded to darkness. However, in one final moment, he could swear he saw rage and irritation unlike anything he’d seen before. An expression he’d never believed his wife could make… the birds began to chirp, and with it her eyes fluttered open. A single sigh would slip through her lips as she raised herself from the bed and began walking to the bathroom. For a moment she felt as if her steps were lighter than she was used to and immediately adjusted them to carry more weight. The thuds which hit the floor with every step brought an odd sense of comfort to her movements, but when she reached the restroom, she found herself pausing in her tracks. 

Her head turned towards the mirror slowly. She stared at the head of long, red hair which covered her shoulders and back in waves. Green eyes blinking against a lightly bronzed face as she squinted and rubbed her hands over her eyelids. It only took a moment to look at herself before she smiled and stepped forward. “Just as hot as always. Maybe I’ll do a ponytail today; let people see more of my beautiful face,” she joked as a hard banging on the front door of her home caught her attention. “What?!” She called out. 

“C’mon! We’re gonna be late if you keep sleeping in like this!” A distant male’s voice could be heard. “You told me to wake you up, but I’m not gonna lose my job for you!” 

“Alright! Alright! I get it!” She responded as she grabbed her toothbrush and toothpaste. “Fuck’s sake. Can’t I just have a little peace?” She paused when the word left her lips… peace… something about it made her stomach turn. A memory, or perhaps common knowledge she hadn’t heard in a very long time. And yet, as she brushed her teeth, it continued replaying in her mind. Over and over again. Like an omen. It wasn’t until she’d finished and looked at herself in the mirror again that she’d find it odd. 

“Hurry up!” The voice from outside urged. 

“I know, I know! Jeez!” She called out before looking at herself in the mirror again. As if she needed to see the words leave her mouth… 

“Some still search, some still hunt; some still seek to destroy his name… 

Vengeance, justice, closure; an ending they might all hope to claim. 

An evil at rest is an evil defeated, or so many would hope they’d see, 

Because you can only really relax as much as others let you be…” 

She froze. Confusion on her face as tears began to fill her eyes, but for a reason she could not understand. Her heart pounded, and then it ached. Her hands attempted to wipe them away, but for some reason they would not stop. She cursed herself, and yet suddenly it all seemed to just wash away. A feeling of calm and peace. Yet now, when she looked at herself, there was this sudden feeling of loneliness which almost seemed to naturally hover over her. Even so, she shrugged it off, threw on her clothes, and rushed out the door to meet her coworker who had been waiting impatiently for her. 

“Finally.” He’d speak. 

“Oh, shut up. It’s not even that late. We have more than enough time. You act like the world will end if we aren’t early.” 

“We keep things running here. That’s our job. Try to be more enthusiastic about it.” 

“Yeah, sure. I’ll be enthusiastic when they give me better pay so I can leave this dump of a town.” She said with a smile. “Maybe sell my house and move somewhere I can just sleep all day.” 

“You’d really leave just like that?” He’d ask only to see an oddly forlorn expression she never normally wore. 

“Maybe. Maybe not. This place makes me feel lonely, even when other people are there. Sounds stupid, right?” She’d ask, but he’d respond in a serious manner. 

“Well, you know we’re all here for you, Woevain. Don’t forget that.” 

“Yeah, I know… I won’t.” 

— 

“Some still search, some still hunt; some still seek to destroy his name.” Lo and all the other spectators around watched as her entire mood shifted. “Vengeance, justice, closure; an ending they might all hope to claim.” Daiaya’s expression hardened into that of rage as her tone rose considerably. Lacking all the fantastical flares and playfulness. “An evil at rest is an evil defeated, or so many would hope they’d see!” The ground trembled and shook at if the entire space were representing her very emotions. “Because you can really only hope to relax as much as others let you be!” The poem ended, her head rising, and her eyes flashing in his direction with only a single outstanding emotion. “Now! Answer me this, Fovey!” 

Lodenthal’s chain lashed forward like a blade. Slicing across the woman’s chest where blood finally poured forth and splattered onto the plants below. The crimson bled out like a wave and dyed all the flowers outward from her position until the endless field was once again covered in red, but this time the sky was starless, black, and bleak. The moon hovered overhead in a deep eclipse. As she grasped her chest, as if to keep the vital fluid inside, she fell to her knees. Then, with one last pained look in his direction, she fell forward into the flowers. From where she fell the flowers would all scatter outward like a hurricane of red and when that wall of crimson petals passed him by, he would find himself once again in that same hall within Lilith’s manor. The violins continued to play, as if they had never stopped, but their tone carried far more depth. Then, in a manner more casual than he’d ever expected, an arm fell over his shoulder like an old friend had found him. A male’s voice vibrating in his ear with simple words. 

“Why couldn’t you just leave me be?” 

Waking Forgotten Evils

Part 4

His head turned to the side quickly only to find himself face to face with a mask. A jester’s mask with empty eye sockets which seemed to hold nothing behind them. Two black holes staring at him from beyond darkness he could not perceive. Two purple diamonds on the cheeks. The voice was deeper than he’d anticipated, but the information he knew made it far too obvious. This is him. This is his target. This is Xiyini Woxia, and the man they had been searching for. Even the patrons of the manor looked on with equal parts confusion and speculation. He was, after all, someone few people who hadn't lived very long lives would keep in their thoughts. In fact, it was practically encouraged to forget him. 

“You…” 

“Answer my question, imbecile. What could have possibly made you think it was smart to ruin me like this?” Even now he was entirely unfazed. As if this all meant nothing to him. This was Lodenthal’s first time ever seeing him, but his description was spot on to what he’d last heard. “Wait. Or maybe I already have the answer.” The Fovey’s fist swung in his direction, but in that same motion he’d find his balance completely cast aside, and his body thrown to the floor with a heavy thud. He’d quickly get up only to find the Woxia gone, but the voice would quickly reveal his position standing not too far away. “There are all sorts of people, mostly idiots, who have made it their choice to bother me.” He spoke with a lighter tone and a lighter voice. 

“That’s because you’re a plague on us all!” Lo responded. 

“Really now? Plague? Don’t be a child. Most are merely angry that they couldn’t do me in with their meager hands and minds.” He started as he paced around him. “That just leaves me wondering who you are. If I knew you were an enemy of any kind, you’d likely already be dead, or worse. So that means I did something to you without realizing it… but what?” 

“Enough talk! Now that I’ve found you, I can kill you and get this over with.” He spoke as he lashed his chain towards him, but Xiyini didn’t seem bothered at all. In fact, he avoided it in the most casual manner possible. Pausing his steps so the attack would simply miss, then stepping over the chain as if stepping over a puddle of water. 

“Don’t be impatient. It’s important that we sort these things out!” The words clearly sounded as if they were coming from a smile beneath the mask, but then the mask's own visage morphed into a smile for all to see. “You’re far too stupid to be a commander or general. I doubt Florita would ever give you a job above pruning plants, and even that might be too difficult. So what?” He asked before stopping in his tracks. Lodenthal took that opportunity to attack; however, the moment his chain landed the male’s body scattered into butterflies and vestiges of blue light. “Honestly. It’s almost like you’d have figured that trick out by now, but I suppose I can’t ask for intelligence from an animal.” 

The Fovey could feel his temper rising with each word. It was difficult enough to keep himself under control, but he had no idea that Xiyini would be this agitating. All he was there for was to do one thing, and that was to kill him. So, when he looked at the jester and saw him standing without a care in the world, it only served to make him livider. “I swear I’ll kill you.” 

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep.” He said before raising a finger to one of the diamonds on his mask. “Come to think of it, I think I get it now. The Woxia was likely here to bring me back, seeing as to how Jaiho and Jayhe have been trying to recover me since I left, although his motives were likely a lie. Not that I’m in trouble, but I’m always useful after all. That means you were the muscle, but you’re the muscle who knows me. Malice with a grudge, judging from the look on your face. So… don’t tell me.” He paused and Lo watched as that same smile spread across the mask from ear to ear, and the eyes became hollow, crescent slivers. “I killed your lover, didn’t I?” 

His eyes widened, his teeth gnashed, the hairs on his neck standing on end. “You knew from the start!” 

“It’s a performance, nature borne! What’s the point of it all without a little suspense? We can name it The Folly of a Failed Vengeance! A story where a foolish hero delves into a battle against a villain unprepared, and ruining a peaceful world for the sake of selfishness… only to die without leaving even a final word.” 

“Xiyini!” 

Claimants are often foolish. They live by the same codes conducted over them by ancients who reject such things. It truly baffles me to no end. What war is going to be won by holding back? What wrong shall be righted by any other than the sacrilegious few who are willing to step forth and unleash their truth upon this world? That was why I was so capable of trampling these other pawns underfoot. Anyone could easily say that I wasn’t some outstanding battlefield master or strategical genius, but rather I was just willing to toss away the rules that bar claimants from being what they are! And should I feel ashamed?! 

“No!” His voice echoed over the hall like a roar. A revelation for a nature of order none could ever truly hope to comprehend as he swiftly yet playfully avoided and dodged every single attack the Fovey threw his way. “Do you think I’m so weak that you can beat me like that?!” He said as he watched the male’s frustrations grow. “What would Florita think?! What would the Void think?! Or rather… what would your wife think?” 

He knew it. He could tell by the look on the mask’s face that he was goading him to lose control… but he didn’t care. Not anymore. Not when he grabbed ahold of the chain and not when barbs grew from the cold steel and pierced his own hand. Not when it glowed with an almost detestable energy and not when his own body registered his words as a form of truth. A halfhearted fight wouldn’t gain him anything, and so he chose to throw it all away and stop holding anything back. And nothing expressed that more than when he charged forward like an enraged animal, his weapon dragging the ground behind him before he leapt into the air, and with a single careless swing the chain whipped forward like a tendril of violent energy where it tore through everything in its path. The floor, the balcony, and any decorations which occupied the space between them and past that. 

Chaos… what is chaos… who commands chaos… is it a single ancient who determines it… or perhaps the collective that encompasses what those rules stand for… chaos… what is chaos… of course, the answer is simple… 

The chain lashed out and with it several claimants in the audience moved to avoid the wild attack. None more skilled than Xiyini himself who once again looked as if he were enjoying himself too much. And then, to everyone’s dismay, he began to do the thing which had gained him the terrible reputation he was known for… he began to preach his mind… speaking words which acted to warp the mind and make an individual question themself and their choices. Their morality. Their truths. 

“Chaos is us! Chaos is we! We are all in chaos! You cry over a single life, but that is chaos! If order is what binds us to regulations made for some simplistic Woxian delegation, then I reject it! For what order is created with the lacking of my peace?!” A twister of steel and violence as Lo’s chains swung for their target with very little care for anyone or anything else between him and his objective. Each passing second a more refined anger and a more refined strike. Misses became attacks which needed to be avoided, and then attacks which could not be entirely avoided. “Isn’t this what you wanted? Chaos?! If the laws which form us are the rules which bind us, then we ourselves are chaos!” Slashes across his clothing and skin as curtains of sparks hit the floor, but none of the blood starved patrons dared to intervene. Not when the mere thought of it seemed to gain the direct attention of Xiyini himself. A break in his focus for raw malice, but that did not stop him from taking several slight blows. “Don’t worry. That wife of yours will be more than pleased with your performance from her seat in the void now!” 

His nonstop laughter was like a rage inducing drug Lodenthal could not ignore. “Enough!” 

Lodenthal’s chain slammed the ground at the Woxia’s side, but that was only the introduction to his immediate rush forward. It was a testament to who these two truly were at the end of the day. The younger claimants in attendance would be pleased to have a front row seat to the clashing of two claimants from a time long passed. When wars were common among the houses and conflict was a simple question of whether an ancient deemed it viable or necessary without much delegation. A Fovey who’d lost a partner for thousands of years, a Woxia no one even knew the age of, and both were more than capable of making it known that they were in a league of their own in combat. 

The sheer speed of the enraged Fovey was enough to make the claimants present question whether they could manage to take him in combat, but the way the Woxia avoided his attacks was a testament to the reality of the unnatural way older order claimants fought compared to modern ones. Like Lilith, but extraordinarily careful. A hand swung like an animal's claw, and a step to the side as if weight were merely a suggestion. A kick missing by a finger, and a finger he used to flip over the kick only to stop when his feet were pointed directly into the air. An irate stare from the Fovey as he spun into another higher kick, only for the Gianni to push himself up from the other foot and propel himself into the air to avoid it. What would then transpire would be several blows all missing their mark the moment Xiyini landed, but the jester would land on his hands and proceed to continue their confrontation in an inverted position. 

“It’s magnificent, isn’t it?! Isn’t this what you were missing?! The force and reality of what makes a claimant a claimant! WE were created with the elements! WE are the children of the elements! WE are reality! WE are law! WE are order! WE are chaos!” He proclaimed just as Lo’s fist connected with his body only for him to fade into a swirl of mist with a laugh, then his voice would come from behind the Fovey. “Have you lost all sense of self? I’d have expected you to realize that trick already!” 

“I said ENOUGH!” Words which follow his hand balling into a tight fist. One that could shatter stones, steel even, before he threw it towards the Woxia. However, just before it connected, his body would twist and his fist would curl around and strike at his back. And it was there that the loud crack of a connection would finally ring through the hall. 

Xiyini would recoil, but not in the way anyone would expect. To their surprise, for someone so oddly flexible and light on their feet, his feet did not leave the floor for a moment. Instead, his head would be knocked back, and the harsh screeching of his shoes dragging across the ground with a shower of sparks would fill the air until the moment he came to a halt. A soft jingle, the bells dangling from his outfit finally making a sound as if to signify this was, in fact, real. This was him, this was the one Lo had come here looking for, this was the order claimant know form carelessly slaying and destroying any enemy his ancient had sicked him on in war until he eventually vanished when the wars of his time ended… and now, with his mask cracking to pieces he would laugh again. A laugh which overwhelmed the hall and instilled a looming dread over every single person who might hear it. Then he would stop. 

“Ah. Now, is that chaos still in your system?” He’d ask while standing up straight and looking forward. The part of his mask which had covered his mouth shattering and falling to the floor like glass to reveal pale lips against a pale face. “You see, there are stipulation for the way I must do things. And I’d feel bad if I gave you nothing.” He started as he began stepping forward towards the Fovey. Another part of his mask shattering to reveal a single eye beneath. An entirely black eye, a revelation that his eyes were within what he'd believed were empty sockets, and with a look that told only one dreadful tale… “Now I won’t feel too bad when I kill the person who stole my peace.” 

“Your peace? You took everything from me!” The Fovey screamed as his chain swung towards the Woxia. 

Zorelle watched with an expression which could only be called terror. It wasn’t because she didn't enjoy violence or anything as weak as that. No, she had only shown up when damage had been dealt to the manor she’d personally made herself, but now she stayed to watch for an entirely different reason. As a long lived claimant herself, she knew Xiyini. As one of Lilith’s closest confidants, she knew Xiyini. But it was because she knew him that she knew they both were very alike when it came to the way they enjoyed seeing someone break. Seeing someone’s hopes truly shattered and destroyed. She knew... because he had once done the very same to her. That was why, as she saw the Fovey launch his attack, she only had one thing to say. 

“Did he really come here thinking he could win this?” Her words caught Virr’s attention. A clearly terrified yet forced smile on the Kinoz’s face. As if she knew the outcome before it happened, and then the Fovey’s chain was stopped and caught by the Woxia whose fingers gripped the weapon before pulling it towards himself. 

Lo attempted to react to the sudden pull with a kick, but the moment he got within range and loosed his attack, the Woxia spun beneath it before launching a heavy punch against his stomach. It wasn’t the most powerful thing in the world, but it certainly hit the most sensitive point. Even so, the Fovey caught his breath before recovering and throwing a punch. Xiyini responded by reversing his spin around his fist and connecting with a backhand across his face that rang across the hall. When he attempted to pull his fist back, he found his wrist grabbed by the Woxia before he was pulled forward as if to pull him to the ground but was left confused when Xiyini pulled the male on top of himself. Then, before he could even think, he found himself launched into the air by the jester’s feet. 

“Come on!” He watched as the Woxia's arms stretched outward as if to receive all his malice. “Don’t disappoint me!” 

He scowled. His brow furrowed and the hairs on his neck stood on ends. His body twisted before launching downward as he spiraled with his weapon into an impact and a burst of raw energy which shattered the ground beneath him. However, of course, before he could even recover a fist collided with his face. Then, to his dismay, he could feel the jester’s arms wrap around his belly from behind. Without a chance to break his hold, his feet left the ground, and in the next moment he’d be slammed headfirst against the ground hard enough to crack the marble flooring. Before he could recover he'd feel himself lifted into the air by his leg before crashing back into the ground face first. A hand grabbing at his back and slamming him down again, and a final motion as he was thrown away. 

As Lodenthal now lay on the ground, wide-eyed and gasping for air, he could barely manage to form the words in his mouth he wished to say. However, through sheer force of will, he spoke them regardless as he began lifting himself from the bloody mess he now was on the floor. “I… will not lose… I will not lose!” 

“Honestly, you’re more a failure than I’d originally anticipated.” His words made the Fovey clench his teeth as he began forcing himself further to stand. “Then again, I’m not disappointed by such a thing. That's what chaos is, after all. Reckless abandon. The unleashing of one’s everything. A claimant can’t hope to release their all when they lack chaos, but you lack discipline.” The words carried as the Fovey stood and looked at the Woxia. His expression now a clear frown beneath the mask, but the mask slowly repaired itself over his face right before his very eyes. That didn’t change what he saw, however. Nothing would change the dreadful anger and rage which was staring at him. 

“Where do you get off being angry with me?” He’d demand. “All you’ve done is ruin lives and then run off!” 

Virr shivered, and it was something the other musicians took note of. Even Zorelle noticed it. As far as she knew the musician shouldn't even know who Xiyini is, but that was obviously not the case. 

“You know… I hate people like you.” His voice returned to the same depth it had at the very start when he’d first revealed himself. The holes which held those blank voids now holding two distinct white pins. As if his eyes had finally opened for the first time, and the smile on the mask shifted to a deep frown. “Not that words matter. You all love to talk, but never listen. Hiding. Crawling around in the shadows. Unable to let a single day pass by without wondering if or when some pathetic garbage like yourself will come and ruin everything! Defile a home I built for myself! Take the things I’ve gained through simple efforts! I had to abandon my peace at the start for your wars, and I have to abandon my peace now for you! So then, I'll now ask you! What's it gonna take for you all to leave me be?!” 

The Fovey moved forward again, another punch in his direction, but this time the Woxia seemed to be out of joy to offer. His posture remained straight and strong, his right hand moving his hand aside as he stepped inward, then that same hand swung outward in a closed fist which crashed against his jaw. A sound echoing out like a brick slamming against a wall, and then his left hand grasped his face before throwing Lo to the floor. The nature claimant attempted to stand, but before he could, the jingling bells accompanied a foot slamming down on his chest before the entire room seemed to shake and quake. Everyone felt it, but didn't feel it. It was no form of gravity or physical force at play; Zorelle could tell that just from looking at the way no one’s clothing or the room had been affected. It was raw and tangible tension. Willpower and real pressure bearing down on everyone even remotely in his vicinity. 

The Fovey looked up at him under the impossible pressure, white pins staring down at him from a now completely red mask full of malice and rage. His clothing filled with bright oranges and yellows as it felt like he alone was attempting to crush him underfoot. It was only when the clattering of Virr’s instrument against the ground caught his attention that Xiyini even cared to relent. His eyes catching sight of the woman barely keeping herself upright before stepping off the Fovey’s chest and moving aside where he dusted off his clothes before Lo spoke again. “You’re a monster. An anomaly among claimants that must be slain.” 

“Is that right? Then tell me something. What does that make you for waking up a monster for the world to deal with after you're dead?" 

"What?" Lo asked with a confused stare. 

"A bit edgy to say aloud, no doubt, but surely you're not that stupid." He paused as he began pacing around him. "You came to my home, desecrated my peace, brought chaos to my door, but you didn't once think of the consequences for when you failed? It was hard enough to hide in the first place, and I'm sure that head lying on the floor somewhere gave my kin enough information to track me down even if I did try to hide again. Now no one will need to look for me because I'm back." 

The Fovey watched with the true realization of what was being told to him. He was absolutely right. Of all the claimants with grudges against him, most of them didn't care to seek him out and were content with living their current lives. The reason he'd even joined forces with the Woxia was because he was the only person he could find actively searching. Now, however, Xiyini had been found, and he was far more dangerous than he imagined. He wasn't the type of person he could defeat on his own and with that being the obvious case it would mean that he'd done nothing more than drag him out of hiding for the rest of the world to deal with. Throw a person he himself considered to be a monster back into the fray like casting a wild beast into a den of pups. 

"What have I done?" 

"I prefer to relax, but I guess I can get back to work. It's what I'm best at, after all. I can only imagine the lives I'm gonna do away with, but everyone can just blame you. And all for a woman who was too stupid or too weak but still chose to raise her weapon to me! If you want to blame anyone blame yourself for not stopping her in the first place and making me kill her!” 

“You bastard!” Lo cried out as he rushed forward to attack only to hit nothing but air. 

“Now look at you! A failure and a fool! Killer of your own lover, and I'll have you join her!” His words acted as a vile disturbance to all in attendance as they watched the Fovey attack again only for his hit to connect with another fake. “And I’ve been thinking of what I'd do to make this as terrible as possible for you.” Another attack hit another clone. “It only took a moment to decide.” His fist swung forward before his chain spun and struck the one at his back… only for that one to disperse into mist as well. “Then I realized it was obvious!” He said as his foot kicked against the back of the Fovey’s legs and knocked him to his knees; then his foot pressed against his back and forced him down on all fours. His head turned up only to see that gold clad knight of Lilith’s Red Legion from the front entrance standing beside him with his halberd raised overhead. “What worse way to fail than without even dying to the one you sought out the most?” A final look at the Woxia who looked down at him with sudden disgust. “A shame, right?” 

A single voice laughing, echoing, and carrying across the entire manor as the halberd fell downward and cut the head of the Fovey clean from its body. Then the corpse fell. Limp onto the marble floor with a hard thud. The knight pulled his weapon from the floor before standing tall once again and spitting on the still warm flesh. “Garbage. I warned you.” 

“You do good work. And the fool died just as I said. Without any last words,” Xiyini spoke as he turned to make his exit. A quick spin to their spectators, and with it his clothing had returned to its purples, blues and yellows. “Give Lilith my regards when she returns.” He spoke in that once again lighthearted and joyful manner. “Now, I guess I'm going back home.” 

Words which felt more like a threat to the safety of all as he began laughing once more. A vile laugh from the misleading jester as he exited the hall and strolled to a place where only the void might know, because no doubt where he chose to walk the Void would be the destination of many if he saw fit. Xiyini lived on chaos of the worst kind, after all. The kind that ruined entire nations and collapsed societies. The kind of chaos that destroyed kingdoms and changed the very world as everyone knew it. His rest was a gift, and that gift had been thrown in his face, but without peace what else can there truly be… other than chaos? And yet... before he could leave, one person called out to him.