The Worst Kingslayer

[Crona]

Crona still needed to get used to the feeling of being transported to another verse after using one of the strange gates that dotted the Nexus, but he didn't have the time to complain, he needed to find this 'Gilgamesh' so he could pay his debt back to the Empire. From then, maybe he could find a nice, quiet room where he could huddle up in a corner and forget about the world...

The boy shakes his head to stop himself from drifting into a daydream, he wasn't safe yet, not with the Empire was on his back, and with that thought in mind, he steps forward and takes a look of his surroundings. The gate had taken him to some sort of grassy plains that stretched to the horizon and dotted by strange-looking trees, though it was only now the climate of the place hits him. Crona almost reels from the sudden onset of humid heat as he clears some distance from the gate, immediately craving water or shelter, and looks around desperately to find some source of relief.

"Ugh, Crona." Ragnarok whines, lazily oozing from the boy's back to voice his complaints. "You. Stupid. Idiot. Couldn't you pick a target that didn't live in the middle of nowhere? Aargh, this must be what it feels like to be on the Runaway Train."

"But...but... how was I supposed to know? Its not like the dossier says a... uhm... like a warning or something." The child was more paying attention to where he could escape the climate then to his demon companion, but then he sees something in the distance! A set of buildings, so be sure, and with a huff of effort he immediately starts forward, and Ragnarok slinks into Crona's back to escape the weather.

The closer he got, the more trees populated the area, and soon the details of the rugged town came into the boy's view. Most of this stuff seemed mostly run down to him, and he was surprised to even see people living among the rubble, it was definitely quite a difference from Death City, and not even comparable to the technological marvel of Coruscant.

Regardless, the boy pressed on and entered the town, shuffling along the dusty road that led closer to the center of the town. He needed to talk with someone, get information, follow a lead... or at least, that was the idea, but as he nervously continued down the road, he could feel a hundred different eyes watching him, the locals looked like... cowboys, for lack of a better description, and Crona's weak stature and timid appearance made him easily stand out. Naturally in a town like this, someone so pathetic-looking would also make him a target.

"'Ey, girly." A husky sounding voice speaks, Crona stops and turns to see a rough and built looking man leaning against the side of a building, pushing himself off and making his way confidently over to the shaken boy. "Lookin' for ya mutha'? Tell ya' what, you give us what goods ya' got, and me n' my buddy 'ere make sure ya' get 'ome nice and safe, aight?"

By now, the boy was absolutely petrified, and it didn't help his condition as a similar looking man comes up behind him and cracks his knuckles to add to the intimidation. "I...I... Oh, no, they're trying to scare me. I think it worked. I can't deal with being scared, its too scary. What do I do?" The boy stutters out, visibly shaking, before Ragnarok's voice pops into his mind. "Eat them."

The two highwaymen exchange confused faces, something had changed in the boy, he stopped looking, he was still shaking, but it wasn't from fear anymore, it was something else, something darker. "Eat them?" Crona repeats, licking his lips. It had been so long since he had a human soul, when would he get another chance? Now was the perfect time, surely one wouldn't be too bad. "Oh, I didn't know that was an option."

"Ey, I'm talkin to ya, you little--" The first man begun to speak, but was interrupted by a blade being lodged in his stomach. Crona stares up at the man, wide-eyed, and with a gruesome smile, which horrified him to the core before he breathed his last breath. The boy would have enjoyed eating the man's soul if not for being summarily attacked by the other bandit standing behind him, a rusted longsword swinging through the air and colliding with Crona's shoulder. Surely a normal boy would have been decapitated, or at least killed, but the bandit looks on with a mix of horror and confusion as the child turns around, smiling manically, without a scratch.

"My blood. Its black. I wonder what color your blood is. Could be orange, green, blue, purple. Or maybe its just red, boring blood red." The man was too stunned by Crona's hardyness and change of demeanor to swing again, and the boy lifts his blade to point at the mans stomach. "If you don't want to find out, answer quickly. I'm looking for a man named Gilgamesh, where is he?"

If the demonic child wasn't enough to attract attention around the town, the name 'Gilgamesh' certainly got quite a few onlookers looking at the encounter. The bandit was near panicked as he looked down on Crona with fearful eyes. "Gilgamesh? The King? Hes likely in his castle, New Babylon, in Nippur, to the north. Hard to miss, fairly nearby, he comes here--." The man answers quickly, but not quickly enough, and as soon as he finishes speaking the boy slashes deeply right across the mans chest, watching curiously as he slumped to the floor and bled out.

Two human souls, a hunger Crona had not been able to feed for quite some time, and it felt -so- rejuvenating to feel the two bandit's force drain into him, his blood pulsed with power, and he looks down at his blade as Ragnarok added the souls to its own strength. Now he was well fed, and he had the location of his target. He breathes in and out heavily, today would be a good day after all.

Until, of course, the child's bloodlust ran out, and he found himself the center of attention as the locals watched curiously at the corpses and the boy, whispering in shocked tones amongst themselves. Crona rubs his elbow, quickly shuffling off and hanging his head to avoid any more scrutiny, soon leaving the strange rugged town behind him as quickly as possible.

It was quite the distance to this so called castle, and Crona quickly drifted off into a daydream as he made his way across the savannah. Gilgamesh the King? Resided in his castle? He thought this would be an easy target, perhaps he should just turn around, pick someone else who might be easier. Though, he didn't want all his efforts to be for nothing, and Ragnarok would torture him if he went back on his decision now after putting the demon through this heat, so he pressed on, wading again over the sweltering grass plains for what felt like an eternity before a new building came into view.

The boy was struck as he lay his eyed upon Gligamesh's Palace, it was beautiful to the point of awe, but stuck out like a sore thumb among the grasslands. Surely this must be the place, Crona could feel his heart pumping and his stomach churning as he closed the final gap between him and the castle, a billion questions fluttering through his mind, though he wasn't even able to think long on them before someone had stopped him in his tracks before he could try and enter. Had they said something? He was sure they said something, but it went through one ear and out the other.

"I said." The servant repeated, clearing his throat. "You walk in the Great King Gilgamesh's land, stranger, what is your business here?"

"Oh, me? I need to... uhm..." The boy paused for a moment, it occurred to him that stating his true intentions wouldn't get him easy access to the castle. "Sorry, I need to meet w-with him, just quickly, is that... uhm... OK?"

The servant looks quizzically, before holding his hand up and turning on his heel and making his way inside. Crona let off a loud sigh, he hoped he haden't gotten in over his head, and he certainly felt like he was doing this wrong, but he didn't have all that much choice, and there certainly wasn't any turning back now, he would just have to wait and see what happened after this supposed 'King' hears he has a visitor.

[Gilgamesh]

Gilgamesh had returned home on his Gil Gil machine with his citizens on his back. The dust kicking up in his eyes as he saw his grandiose palace and dreamed of warm baths and fine luxuries. His entrance to his city was a welcoming one, people were cheering for him and there seemed to be an increase of his loyal subjects while he was gone. The King smiled as he let the group of civilians jump of his motorcycle and rush to meet their families in tears and telling stories of the great Gilgamesh and his trials to save their lives and the fates they surely would have endured if it weren’t for Gilgamesh. He grinned, the people here were his property. How could he let them be eaten! If they were to be disposed of that would be on his orders. No one elses. The people all turned to look at Gilgamesh who got off his motorcycle and handed it to one of his servants, who seemed dumbfounded by the machinery and received a small slap to the back of the head by the loyal Anos before he grumbled and walked off with it.

Gilgamesh stood proud before his people in his Golden Suit armor seemingly perfect, even though the heat was baking the King like a loaded potato. Sweat started to drip from his brow and he felt so exhausted but he had to maintain his perfect image before his people. Happy thoughts, happy thoughts. A nice supper shall be a deserving treat for doing such a strenuous labor. Gilgamesh laughed a little before speaking towards his people; those who hung off every word of the person who fulfilled his promise to protect his people.

“My faithful citizens! I have returned with those who had been taken from me and I have punished those that take away my people and my things. They shall not be a problem in the future! He thrusted his fist into the air and his people cheered, oh man did it feel great to be King again...even if it was just a small city at this point. His words flowed like honey and the people just ate it up. Loyal citizens were the best. The King smiled and waved them off so they can do their duties or enjoy themselves being his citizens. They all seemed contented and smiled and conversed with each other before strolling off and continuing their daily business.

Gilgamesh returned to his giant palace and he walked up the giant doors as they opened up to him by the two servants who he can’t recall their names. Like it matters. The last servant of the nameless trio bowed before him and without a word lead Gilgamesh to the bathing chambers where he so enjoyed it the previous occasion. He entered the candle-lit room and felt the steam immediately begin to release his tension and relax his muscles. He took off the cumbersome armor and immediately began to enjoy himself in the hot bath.

Time passed by and he saw the sun began to dimmer down into the ground as Gilgamesh realized that his skin was beginning to prune. He reluctantly stepped out of the water into the cold embrace the wind had to offer him. He found his favorite pair of nightwear there, blue pajamas with teddy bears on it. He felt the overwhelming desire to sleep and began to appreciate that the clothes that were left out for him were extraordinarily comfy. Gilgamesh exited the bath-room and began his journey to the King’s Chambers! His body forced him to slump to the side of the wall for a moment to rest and he shut his eyes before unwillingly drifting away to dreams of Golden coins and money baths.

Morning came too fast and he pulled the covers over his eyes and grumbled, “Just five more minutes Anos.” He peeked one eye open and he realized that he was inside his royal bed and that someone had carried him up to his room. Classic Anos. He threw the covers off and walked over to his enormous closet and picked his classic casual look.

He walked over to his balcony and opened up a portal before taking out a wine bottle and a golden chalice. He poured himself some wine and began to sip on it before continuing to daydream and enjoy the morning sun. A knocking was present on his door, followed by Anos entering the room, earning a cursory glance as he continued to enjoy his day.

“My King, there is a boy waiting outside for you...he looks...unusual. He requests your presence. Shall I bring him in?” Anos shifted uneasily, hoping that for once his King was in a good mood.

“Very well, bring the boy in. Hopefully he is of some use to me.” The King turned towards the entrance of the door and waited for a bit while the lad began to explore the wonderful magnificence of the Kingdom of Gilgamesh. How the boy must feel to enter? And if Anos says he looks peculiar...then he must be a prime or someone of higher power. The boy entered and Gilgamesh noted the boy’s weird hairstyle and his thin figure. Definitely a prime. Now what was this boy packing?

Gilgamesh sat up from his chair, genuinely interested in what the boy was going to say to him. He heard Anos close the door behind him as the boy entered the room.

“Ar-are you Gilgamesh?” The King nodded his head as he took a sip of wine, eying down the boy. “I...I have to ummm. I have to do this or else I’ll be h-hunted down by Em-Empire.” The boy shifted uneasily before withdrawing his blade, the black glistening in the morning sun. The King just laid back as the sword formed lips and the young boy shouted, “Screech.. Alpha” His sword began to scream and Gilgamesh winced at his ears being attacked. The boy raised up his sword and was about to bring it down. Golden Portals opened up next to the boy and chains flew out and prevented him from moving his arm or well anything to that matter. Gilgamesh just sat in his chair casually laid back and smiling towards the boy. The boys eyes widened in panic but the King got up from his chair and laughed.

“This was certainly amusing and you do earn something for this small bit of entertainment.” The King glared at the boy for a second. “However, if this was a real attempt to end me, you shall learn the pains of life very soon. His casual smirk returned as he glanced towards the city. “Yet if you feel persecution, you shouldn’t. My nation is a Safe Haven for those who seek refuge and we seek to do justice to those who have been wronged. Well, as long as you don’t attempt harm upon my subjects nor my belongings. Gilgamesh returned his gaze towards Crona. He had learned his lesson from demanding servitude in a land where Primes has as much power as him. He needed to “earn” their servitude one way...or another.

[Strazio Rockwell]

Heat and sand, the two things Strazio found in no short supply as he ventured across the Endless Dunes. Even with the oppressive heat threatening to roast him alive he pushed forward. The nomad had no particular destination in mind, but much like the moors he had a feeling that action would find him whether he wanted it to or not. Strazio ran a hand through his sweat-soaked hair and pulled his hood over his head, trying to block some of the sun. He yelled in frustration, how long had he been walking for? So long that he couldn't even remember, so long that his legs were sore and shoes filled with sand. On the horizon, barely visible but definitely real Strazio saw a line of strange camel-like creatures and several humans.

A caravan, maybe they have water... I hope they're at least friendly.

Strazio picked up the pace and tried to catch up to the travelers. They must have noticed the incoming prime because they slowed to a crawl. After a few minutes he was close enough to see the group in its entirety, two of the odd creatures and three humans dressed in long dress-like red and blue clothing. The eldest woman smiled at his approach and waved, revealing thick golden bracelets on her arm. Strazio lowered his white hood and smiled back at her. She looked to be in her mid thirties, her hair was black and skin a soft gold-brown. The other two were younger boys, probably in their late teens. They watched silently as Strazio slogged towards them, one carried a sheathed scimitar and the other leaned on a spear. The prime felt them size him up, they thought perhaps he was a threat wearing a smile to only get closer.

As soon as he came within striking distance the younger of the two boys thrust his spear, stopping inches from Strazio's neck. Instinctively his powers flared to life and he dashed backwards. His hands sparked with energy, he was ready for a fight as were the two boys. However neither of them dared to move a step forward, they looked scared. The woman stepped forward and spoke softly.

"What is your name?"

"Strazio Rockwell, Defender of Darkshire. I'm just looking for water, or at least directions I don't want to fight." to hopefully drive the point home Strazio raised his hands, white sparks diffused into the air. The boys lowered their weapons slightly as the woman stepped forward.

"I'm Mishka, it's a pleasure to meet you Strazio. We're heading to New Babylon, its in the North we're only a few hours away."

"New Babylon?" He stepped forward cautiously to test the waters. The boys lowered their weapons and walked back to the strange animals.

"Yes" she smiled earnestly "my sons and I were told of a place of riches and gold, led by a great king known as Gilgamesh. My... my husband passed away and we're hoping to start new in the city. You're welcome to join us"

Gilgamesh, a great king? He must be a powerful prime, or at least a persuasive one to rule a city in this desert. He nodded and smiled as Mishka led him over to the animals and retrieved a water skin for Strazio. He drank greedily from the sack of water, he drank so fast that he accidentally inhaled some of the water which forced him into a coughing fit. In between hacks and wheezes he managed to ask Mishka

"What are these beasts?" He motioned towards the horned animals. Before Mishka could respond the sword-wielding boy responded.

"They're called Neapts, great beasts of burden. They're perfect for the desert, incredibly loyal too! I raised these two since they were younglings." The teenager was passionate about the animals and he lovingly patted one's neck. The neapt growled happily as the teen started scratching the creature's neck. After a few moments of this he finally whistled shapr and loud, patting the beast on its flank. Both neapts jumped to action and began moving at a gentle clip northward. Mishka motioned for Strazio to follow and he happily obliged, glad to finally have direction. During their trek Strazio learned the boy's names. Karos was the oldest and he wielded the sword, he grew up raising Neapts with his father. Markos was younger, but much more practiced with fighting, joining Carrefore's militia at a young age.

They spoke for a long time, Strazio asking questions about the Dunes and the lives of his companions. He learned that Mishka made beautiful jewelry before she came to the Omniverse. She lamented that in the omniverse her craft was under appreciated, considering primes could craft masterpieces for a tiny amount of OM in only a few minutes. Even her most intricate baubles paled in comparison to a prime-crafted piece. The jovial conversations took Strazio's mind off the heat and he was glad to find solace in his fellow travelers.

"You said you were a defender of Darkshire, what brings you to the Dunes?" Karos asked

"I'm going to kill Dracula, but in my current state I am way too weak. You could call this a pilgramage for power"

"Bold ambitions, I hope" before he could continue the ground began to shake a rumble. The Neapts reared up on their hind-legs and slipped into the shifting sands. Strazio looked around, trying to locate the source of the shaking. From underneath the sand came a whirlwind of blades and long strips of red cloth. Karos drew his sword and stepped in front his mom, he shouted back to Markos.

"Dervishes! Shit, get ready!"

A towering sekeleton, covered in long strips of red cloth with chunks of metal tied to the ends. Two long curved blades were strapped to the Dervish's forearms. Two smoldering red lights glared at the group from within the skull's eye sockets. Two more Dervish's erupted from the sand, spinning like tops they careened towards the group. Strazio charged a breach bolt and fired at the closest Derish, the bolt collided with the creature but was seemed to have no effect as it was deflected by the whirling mass of metal. Karos yelled at them to move and everyone except for the poor Neapts managed to jump out of the way. A mist of blood and scraps of cloth erupted upwards. The two dervishes careened into each other tangling themselves up the other's clothing strips.

Strazio sweared as he dove into the sand. Even before he stood up another breach bolt was charging. The third Dervish was already spinning towards the prime. The whirlwind kicked up a cloud of sand and came mere feet from Strazio. He released a fully charged breach, a white hot beam of energy tore into the Dervish kicking it from its dreaded spin and forcing it into the ground. Blood stained the sleeve of Strazio's cloak, his arm ravaged from his attack. The cloud of sand began to settle and Strazio turned to the other two Dervishes. They were untangled and spinning towards the separated family, one heading towards Mishka and the other towards Karos and Markos.

"Fuck" Strazio cursed loudly and began charging another breach beam. He had time to stop one, but which one? I can't hesitate, as soon as this beam is ready I have to act. Fuck, which one? Which one!? Mishka cried out as the two boys yelled for their mom. Strazio fired and prayed that he made the correct choice. His beam ripped into the Dervish heading for the boys, the direct hit ripped the Dervish apart sending metal shards and bones everywhere. Strazio watched in horror as the chunks of metal rained on the teens, cutting them severely. Even more horrific he listened to Mishka's blood curdling scream as she was sliced into ribbons. The dervish slowed down and turned towards the fuming prime.

No matter what I do, people still die. He gritted his teeth in rage and readied one final breach beam. His arm roared in agony as it was ripped raw from the fourth consecutive breach attack. Strazio yelled in rage as he readied himself for the approaching whirlwind of death. He poured all of his frustrations and anger and fury into this attack. He wanted to rip apart the world, he wanted to tear a hole in the Omniverse. The mindless creature came closer and closer, threatening to tear Strazio apart. One final eruption of energy marked the end of the fight, decimating the dervish. A hail of sharp metal and bones assailed the poor prime, cutting his cloak to shreds and slicing deep into his skin and sending blood across the sand.

The family was dead, and there was nothing left to remember them by except for a few shreds of cloth and flesh. Strazio walked over to the two boys, their bodies were ravaged by the metal shards. The prime sighed and shed his cloak, trying to cover their bodies with the shredded remnants of his cloak. His blood dripped onto the sand, the wounds weren't horrible but they were indeed painful. His arm was the most damaged, his magick tore it raw. As he always did he moved on, heading north in hopes of finding refuge at New Babylon.

Eventually the sand gave way to a prairie type terrain, flat grassland. New Babylon was a stunning palace, an affront to the harshness of the Endless Dunes. Strazio smiled weakly as he limped towards the city, he had lost a decent amount of blood on his trek but most of the bleeding had stopped by now. The palace was surrounded by a smaller shabby village. People stared as Strazio limped through Nippur he ignored them and headed straight for the palace. He didn't want to waste time with underlings he wanted to meet the head honcho. The lustrous palace seemed out of place in the small village. After a few minutes he finally reached the palace and was stopped by an older man.

"You look terrible, what is you business in the great kingdom of New Babylon?"

Strazio looked up at him and took a short breath to compose himself before speaking.

"My name is Strazio Rockwell, a defender of Darkshire. I'm here to see the King Gilgamesh, please I've come a long way" he pleaded.

[Crona]

Crona waited as patiently as he could while Gilgamesh's servant went out to send news to his king, and though the boy stood mostly still, holding his arms close in to his chest, his mind raced. He imagined himself running away from the castle, from the Empire, from everything, maybe he could find someplace tucked away where nobody would look for him, or at least a place where he could hide from being hunted. As usual, Ragnarok woulden't be very happy, and he could already hear the demon grumbling unhappily. This was at least worth an attempt...

"The King will see you, be sure to pay the utmost respect to him whilst in his chamber." A regal voice sounded from the castle, leaving the entrance wide-open for Crona to enter. The boy stared at the returned servant in a moment of surprise and panic, unsure if he could follow through, before giving him a slow-nod and shuffling along behind him as he was lead through the castle, leaving the surrounding city far behind.

The outside of the castle was surely a sight to see, but the insides were even more spectacular, almost everything was expertly crafted from gold or other beautiful - and expensive - materials. It must have taken a huge amount of time, money and effort to create such a marvel, and it gave Crona somewhat of an idea of what the person who created this place was like. Perhaps this Gilgamesh had created this place in a similar way to how he spawned the motorcycle in the Nexus? That would certainly explain things, but it also meant that the king was fairly powerful.

Crona audibly gulps, he was beginning to think more and more that this was a mistake.

Soon enough, the servant opened the door to reveal what looked like a throne room, with a man in glistening golden armor sitting on the far side. Crona waits outside the door for a moment, staring at Gilgamesh from the shadows, before the King's servant ushers him in and closes the door behind him with a loud clank. The boy lets out a quiet sigh before slowly making his way into the center of the room, looking up nervously at the king before clearing his throat. "Ar-are you Gligamesh?" He speaks in a voice just barely loud enough for the King to hear, and after he nods, Crona brings his arms away his chest, his black blade forming into his hands as he spoke again. "I...I have to, uhm. I have to do this or I'll be h-hunted down by the Em-Empire."

Ragnarok was ready to go as he always was, and by now so was Crona, and the quickly prepare to fire a beam at the King, a sickly purple energy and a piercing scream coming out from the blade as he prepares to fire. "Screech Alpha!" The boy yells as loud as he can manage over his blade's screams. Was the King just going to sit there and do nothing? He had barely even moved since the boy had entered the room, was he that powerful that he could take a direct hit and survive, or perhaps he was just accepting his fate? Doubt plagued Crona's mind, but it was much to late to change anything now.

As though reading his attacker's thoughts, something did happen. Large, golden portals opened up all around him, and sets of chains launched from them as they snared him from every angle, effectively nullifying his attack and keeping him completely helpless. Crona near immediately goes wide-eyed in panic, thrashing in the chains for just a moment before he heard Gilgamesh burst out in laughter. The boy still looked around, desperately looking for a way out as the King spoke to him.

Crona shriveled under the King's glare, but his words did not fall on deaf ears, and soon the boy turns from a desperate panic to a odd shyness as he weighed his options. "Wait, so, you aren't mad at me? I mean, I j-just tried to kill you." He tried to fold his hands into his chest, though the chains had prevented any such action, and he had no choice but to stand there feeling incredibly vulnerable. "I... I don't have any loyalty to the Empire, its just that they... they said if I killed you, they'd leave me alone, because I got attacked in their city and made a mess. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..." The boy sighed, he didn't know what to do, everybody wanted him to do his work for them, but he knew he didn't want to do the Empire's work. "I just... I just... I won't harm you. Or your subjects, OK? If-if you're against the Empire, well, then, I guess I am too."

"WHAAAAAT?!" A voice echos immediately from Crona's black blade, and soon a set of bulky arms emerge from its surface, pulling itself up to reveal an equally bulky body with a strangely shaped head with a large X for a face. "What the hell is wrong with you, you goddamn dumbass? Are you just gonna go from one boss to another? This is why I should be the boss. Cause you have no backbone! NO. BACKBONE." The demon flew into a rage at Crona, smacking aggressively over the head with a pair of gloved hands, and while the boy was chained he certainly had no chance of fighting back. The two bicker between eachother for a moment, though just as the chains dissipate enough for Crona to regain some of his composure, Ragnarok turns his attention to his would-be target. "You! For someone dressed in all-gold you have a damn silver-tongue! Why should we fight for you, huh? What makes you better then the Empire? They have huge buildings and cars with cannons on them, how you gonna mess with that? Speak!" Ragnarok spoke quickly, and even though Crona gave a small protest, saying something along the lines of not dealing with this right, another wrathful glare from the demon made the boy turn away.

[Gilgamesh]

The silver, glowing chains retracted back into the portals and the boy’s arms feel before him before the...sword began to assault it’s master? The gloved hands smacking the boy was quite amusing. A sword bossing around the wielder? How comical! A sly smirk grew on the King’s face. This world has so much to offer me. All of these subjects are quite entertaining. He glanced outside for a moment, while the jester and his brutal sword continued to duke it out. He felt almost grateful to Omni, the amusement he gained would not be short lived. Omni had good taste, the King had to give him that. Good taste indeed. His attention was brought back by a loud “YOU!” This sword had more gall than the child wielding it did. Gilgamesh peered at the sword as it stated its challenge toward him he noticed the black figure pop out and seemed to glare Gilgamesh in the eye accusingly. He couldn’t help but feel irked at the challenge as he grit his teeth.

“Hmm? You dare question my authority?!” Golden portals opened up next to the King, shimmering in the sun, as weapons of various shapes and sizes began to peak out and all pointed at the small boy in front of him. “Now question with my ability to destroy their false King again? Now if you continue to mock me, you shall be punished.” He casually sat back down into his chair as the child stood in shock of the massive array of weapons the King had pointed at him. The boy trembled in fear as the black demon began to look admirably at the variety of weapons and how casually the King had taken the monster’s threats.

"Well... thats impressive. I guess you made your point then. Stick with him Crona." The demon proceeded to enter the sword and disappear from their view.The King let out a soft smile, at least he was able to intimidate this small prime. This power felt nice, once again it was in his hands. The boy still was shaking frightened and the King let the weapons slink back into his treasury and the golden disappear one by one like fireflies in the night sky. The boy visibly relaxed a bit before the King spoke.

“Now tell me, my subject. Who exactly are you? Gilgamesh peered at the boy as he shifted uncomfortably underneath his gaze. The boy casually put away the sword and began to rub the back of his pink hair uncomfortably.

"M-my name is Crona...a-and this is Ragnarok. I-i-i’ll be glad to help you fight the Empire. That is if you t-take me into your Kingdom." The boy’s eyes darted down onto the floor and he shifted uncomfortably. Gilgamesh stood up and walked over towards the small boy whose sword wielding power and demon must provide him of some use. The boy’s eyes averted from the King and he couldn’t help but smile

“Yes, of course you may assist me in my conquest to depose the false King. You shall be heavily rewarded for your loyalty, my worthy ally.” The horrid taste of compliments flew out of his mouth, the honor the boy should have for receiving these compliments...he should be grateful. However, it seemed the boy relaxed a little and smiled as the King walked towards the door and yelled out towards the entrance where light polluted the dark halls of his fortress. “Anos, show my new subject a chamber here in the Palace. The King turned to his subject who now held a smile and awaited patiently to be shown his room. His brow furrowed and how dare Anos make him wait! HOW DARE HE! “Anos I demand you come this instance!” The boy seemed a little unnerved but was glad that the King was not directing his anger towards him.

His voice called out from the entrance of the gate. He had the gall to not come and talk to the King himself. He dare make Gilgamesh strain his ears to hear his voice. Servants weren’t made like the used to be anymore. “My King, there is another prime outside...one more in need for medical attention.”

“Well, what are you waiting for? Bring the man in! The King’s eyes lit up, another prime...another source of power lining up at his door. Oh yes....his idea of his Kingdom was all coming back together. His New Babylon would be fantastic...oh yes...it will be perfect.

His servant's response however, was less than satisfactory. “My King I am not sure if you will be happy-”

Gilgamesh’s voice cut the servant’s off with abrupt harshness. “I said bring the man in Anos, we do not want another one of my subjects dying just yet.” The man shambled in, a blood trail entering with him and staining the carpet. Anos quickly entered after the man, hurrying into a room with a sign that stated, “Servant’s Quarters.” Three of the strong, able bodied men came to assist while Anos nodded at the King before heading up the staircase and leading Crona into the hallway of luxurious bedrooms which he could choose from.

“You three. Take the man to one of the guest rooms and treat his wounds. I guarantee safety at my Kingdom for all those who seek it. And you, Stranger Prime. Welcome! To New Babylon.

[Strazio Rockwell]

Strazio's entire body ached and he struggled to stay standing. The combination of blood loss and dehydration was finally taking its toll on him. His vision blurred and he almost didn't notice when Anos went back inside to talk to his king. Strazio bit the inside of his cheek to focus himself and he smiled weakly as the servant led him inside. The inside of the palace was opulent way beyond what Strazio had expected. He almost felt bad for leaving a trail of blood and sand on the fine carpets. Before him the palace opened up into a large atrium which he was brought before a golden man. Strazio assumed that the man with golden hair was the king and he tried his best to bow respectively. He was not a fan of royalty, but he definitely was not in a position to start any trouble. King Gilgamesh spoke with a commanding authority that Strazio would've expected from a king of sand.

"You three. Take the man to one of the guest rooms and treat his wounds. I guarantee safety at my Kingdom for all those who seek it. And you, Stranger Prime. Welcome! To New Babylon."

The injured prime stayed silent, using all his effort on staying conscious rather than speaking. The three servants helped Strazio to one of the nearby guest rooms and began to treat his various cuts. They offered him water and wine which he gladly gulped down, despite disliking the taste of wine. None of the wounds were particularly severe, but combined with his trek in the desert they managed to take their toll. The servants removed his tight blood-soaked shirt and revealed the multitude of scars covering his body. He was athletic, but his body was obviously worn from the ravages of his own magick. Burned into his chest by foul magicks was a red chevron. the mark of Damien Alabaster. After he was bandaged nearly from head to toe and his clothes replaced with a casual loose outfit he waved the servants away.

"I really appreciate your help, but I'm dead tired. I hope your king won't mind if I rest in one his beds."

The guest bed seemed fit for royalty, something that Strazio was not used to. Being hated and hunted in his home world his bed was mostly made in the wilderness rather than anywhere civilized. Carefully he reached out towards the bed, touching the soft blankets. This better not be a damned trap he thought before jumping onto the bed. It was nice to have a comfortable rest for once, Strazio almost felt guilty for basking in the lavish pleasures of a fine bed. Before long he managed to doze off into a half-sleep state. He only rested for a few minutes before being jolted awake by his leg sliding off the edge of the bed. His body was sore, but he felt much better now that he was hydrated. Strazio crawled out of his bed and tried his best to make sure it was made the way he found it, unfortunately his bed-making skills were sub-par.

"Well, the king must feel pretty comfortable letting strangers in his domain. I guess I'll wander about." He spoke to himself while stretching out his body. Strazio opened his door a crack and peered down the hallway, there wasn't much to see. I thought I saw a strange looking boy walk this way right when I showed up, maybe another guest? His bare feet felt the soft luxurious carpet and he thought of putting on his boots, but the sore spots on his feet convinced him otherwise. Strazio walked down the hallway, peering into empty guest rooms before finally coming to an occupied one. Strazio knocked on the door with the back of his hand and listened for an answer. No one responded and he knocked one more time before finally turning the door knob slightly and opening the door. The strange boy was sitting in a corner with his knees hugged up to his chest. Strazio raised an eyebrow and stepped into the threshold of the door, the crest of Darkshire dangled from a necklace and glinted softly in the sunlight. He leaned up against the door frame and smiled at the young boy.

"Hey, sorry for barging in I just figured I'd introduce myself to another guest of Gilgamesh. My name is Strazio Rockwell, pleased to meet you"

Let me know if you have any issues with that Crona and I'll be more than happy to change them.

[Miranda Frost]

((BGM for Entering Dunes and Carrefore))

[spoiler][youtube]HdSyYISenWA[/youtube][/spoiler]

It seemed like a couple of days have passed since Seraph soiled his Espada uniform carrying the stupid white knight back to his back to its little pack. At the moment he didn't quite care, however the long, tiresome walk from the Coruscant portal to the.. what was it again. What did they call it? The sandbox? Nah.. it was the Dunes. The journey itself was uneventful to say the least. Seraph spent his time complaining about the red stains on his white uniform. To him there was no way it would ever come out. The thought of using Omnilium to change his clothes was beyond him.

When he saw the portal, he was not impressed. In his eyes it was a "Naked Senkaimon" from its appearance and glow, but the speed it took when he stepped through the portal to enter this new place was impressive. Neither a Garganta nor a Senkaimon could transport a being in a speed such as this in the speed it did. Seraph was taken aback when he saw the cloudless blue skies and scorching sun ahead. The place resembled Los noches, but with a more realistic view.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a handful of sand, a play-test of some sort with the Omnilium he had. The sand itself was from the city of Los Noches, the home of the Arrancars. He blew into the grainy substance and scattered it into the air. The place did feel like home, though the environment around him had to much grass for his taste. He began walking, his annoyance for the blood soaked coat he wore building. By the time he reached the nearby town or city, he didn't care, the sight of those blasted knights rose it to a whole new level.

His teeth gritted and his fists clenched. The town was filled with them. Sure there were regular commoners about, minding their own business, but these coat-ruining soldiers ruined his coat. For their sake he would have to wait. Seraph walked about the town, taking a look around, until he came across a group of knights drinking outside of a town Inn.

"..sayy /hiccup/ ain't there that golden guy /hiccup/ that kick our asses?"

" Yeah.... but'll he'll get wahts comin to him.. him and that deathing town of his"

" Th waaan that is dat way? /hiccup/". The stormtrooper stood, forcefully pointing in the direction of the other town, but accidentally through his cup off with a shatter. The drunk troopers nearly stumbled away in their hurry not to be noticed drunk.. but with how loud they were, it was a miracle that they didn't attract any "comrade" attention. Gold guy, kicks ass..... so he must be strong right? Seraph grinned wide and popped his fingers in excitement. If he was stronger than Seraph.. then perhaps a new master could be found in this Los Noches-esque world. He looked off toward where the drunk was pointed and started walking.

Not far did he get before one of the knights flew by on something out of sci-fi movie. It was not unlike a hoverbike from this one comic book he had read. In the book, scouts used these vehicles in pairs. Seraph drew his blade, the dark sword shining black against the daylight. He could hear the other one come close and he stepped quickly to its side and swung, catching the bike's rider with it.

(BGM Shift)
[spoiler][youtube]wcWrnnmK8YI[/youtube][/spoiler]

"H-hey... Stop!" By now a trooper had came around the corner, and the first thing he saw the decapitated trooper and readied his weapon. Seraph didn't stay to see him fire and took off for the bike that had stopped nearby and leaped on. Seraph wasn't sure how to operate it and began pressing, pushing, and pulling things to try and get the blasted thing to work, all the while red bolts were flashing around him. It took the pain of taking one of these bolts to his right shoulder to force his weight against the grips, pushing them forward. As a result, the bike bolted forward out of the town and into the sandy desert.

After awhile he came to a town, a magnificent palace visible even from the edge. Mr. Golden Guy must be there. He drove the bike further into town, his attire and manner of entering vie hoverbike seemed to spook a few commoners here and there. The people ran off or entered their buildings with a loud shut of their doors, loud locks turning.

[spoiler][youtube]SI2nXIjz1sk[/youtube][/spoiler]

"eh... I think I'll leave this think behind", he suggested to himself, pulling the controls to stop it and stepped off onto the ground, one hand gripping his scabbard and freeing it from his white, but bloodstained uniform. Seraph quickly looked around, his inability to sense energies now causing a paranoia on what was there and what wasn't. The town seemed full of people earlier, but now it seemed like a ghost town, with doors shut and locked, yet he could almost feel the eyes on him from all directions. He kept looking around, but he couldn't help but tell something or someone was coming his direction. A nervous smile upon his lips, he re-drew his black-bladed sword.

[Crona]

Crona blinked a few times in amazement at Gilgamesh, still somewhat taken aback that he was being praised and honored as an ally despite the fact that only a few moment before the boy had intended to rip the king apart. Still, he wasn't about to make a comment about the sudden show of hospitality, and he would have gladly fled from the room if not for another arrival to enter the chamber after being heralded by Anos.

A tall and athletic looking person entered the room, but Crona first noticed his shredded clothing and significant wounds before anything else. He had a sudden urge to help, to run over or defend him and treat his wounds, but instead stays rooted to the point he was standing, shyly avoiding attention and eye contact and trying to make himself look as small as possible. The palace would give him medical attention, and if he was an enemy of Gilgamesh, he would surely be quickly destroyed. The boy tried his hardest not to worry about it.

Words were exchanged, people entered and left the room as Crona daydreamed about the new arrival and the strangely welcoming king, only snapping back to reality when a servant cleared his throat to attract the boy's attention, gesturing towards the supposed Guest rooms. The boy was startled for only a moment before realizing he could be assigned a room where he could be left alone, and then eagerly followed the servant through the castle. Well, as eagerly as a prime like Crona could show enthusiasm, it was little more than a lack of hesitation.

Soon enough, Crona was shown a rather long hallway, with a set of ornate doors on either side and a grandeur of which he had never known. It was a bit much to take in, the luxurious carpets and gold outlining all seemed to beg for the boy's attention to gaze at its beauty. The boy shook his head after hearing something of an impatient sigh from the servant showing him the quarters, and quickly flashes the servant a weak smile before heading down as far as the hallway went to pick the very last one. It seemed the same as any other, the same ornate door adorned with the same golden handle, but for whatever reason this last one gave him more comfort then the others. Crona reaches his hand out ever so slowly before turning the knob and entering the room.

Again, an overly luxurious room, fit with an impeccably made bed and every other thing any guest could possibly want. Anything not crafted from gold was either covered with a lavish carpet or some other equally exotic material. It was a bit bombarding on the eyes, perhaps if he stayed here long enough Crona would ask for it all the be removed so he could have a blank space to think.

Though as the boy did with any room, he grabbed a pillow from the bed, sat down in the corner with his back to the wall and facing the door, and tucked his knees as far as he could into his chest while hugging the life out of the pillow. It reminded him somewhat of the prison back on Coruscant, and he began to wonder if there was a difference between this cell and the others, though this was definitely the most extravagant.

He had promised the Stormtroopers he would kill Gilgamesh, but he had betrayed them. He should have just killed them in the first place and saved himself the trouble if he was going to be stuck with a bounty on his head anyway. Despite feeding on souls quite recently, the hunger had become quite insatiable, now that the taste was in the fiber of his being it was something difficult to shake. Gilgamesh said he was an ally... that would have to do for now, as long as he had tasks for him, he supposed that would have to do. Maybe if they fought against the Empire long enough, he could get a second chance against a particular Enginseer...

A thirst for revenge and bloodshed made Crona's heart beat and his blood rush through his veins, his eyes were wide and a white sheen had begun to grow over his black irises, and he couldn't help a predatory grin that only the pillow would see.

Or so he thought, someone had came in the room, spoken words that had broken his trance. Crona looks up quickly, flashing frenzied glare and wide grin at the intruder, but was gone within a second, replaced by the usual look of worry and uneasiness. "Oh! I-I-I'm sorry, I didn't see... you." The child says hesitantly, before getting back on his feet. It seemed to be the injured man from before, but he looked mostly patched up now. How much time had passed? Something to think about later. "I'm...I'm Crona. It looked like... like you had some pretty bad wounds. Nice to s-see you've recovered." The boy stutters out nervously, tucking his hands around the pillow and hugging it tightly. He was genuinely happy that Strazio was alright, though he didn't know anything about the warrior, aside from the fact that he seemed to be a veteran considering the amount of scars he had, and it was more then enough to put Crona a bit on edge. "Oh, and this is..."

"RAGNAROK." The demon suddenly bursts out from behind Crona's back, the gushing of blood and breaking of skin the only thing hinting at the muscled creature's sudden arrival. "And you'll do well not to forget, ya little weakling! You're lucky we didn't tear you apart as soon as you stepped your bleeding hide into that hall, so don't get any funny ideas and we'll all be just fine. Got it?! GOOD! 'Cause I don't like playing nice." The towering monster would have likely hit his head on the roof if not for high ceilings in the room while it ranted at the newcomer, though just as quickly as it appears, Ragnarok was gone, quickly merging back into Crona's body and revealing the extremely embarrassed boy scratching the side of his head.

"...Ragnarok. Hes...Uhm... you know...you saw." The boy says shyly. "Hes sorta fine once you get stuck with him... Anyway... Are you here to fight for Gilgamesh too?"

[Gilgamesh]

*Clang* *Clang*

Eudocia turned her head to see that the bell on top of the Tavern began to ring. Her keen eyesight saw the face of a panicked person as he desperately rung the bell before he opened the hatch and dove inside the shelter of the Tavern. She was taking a stroll across the town...she definitely didn’t want to get yelled at again like last time. It’s not her fault she got hungry and those Barbarians were selfish. She pouted for a second before realizing that the bell had been rung and she was needed. She got up and sprinted towards the location, she would not disappoint her King again...especially after how perfect his Kingdom turned out to be...She wasn’t tormented, she wasn’t judged her, she was accepted and she needed to protect his people.

She ran over to the bell as fast as she could and for once the town was dead quiet. Not a soul in sight. Something bad must have spooked the townies. She came into sight of the thing and for a second her heart dropped. There was a man in all white with something over his face...was this a Stormtrooper. He was a weird looking one though...Her furry ears twitched in anxiety as she stared down the man in front of her. An animalistic growl came from her throat in an attempt to intimidate the oncomer. “If you wish to leave Stormtrooper, I would do so now.”

She squee’d in her head. That was super cool and badass! Her King would be proud. Her eyes began to trail off until she realized where she was. She brought her eyes back down towards the bad man who was in front of her. As she started to think, this man seemed pretty tasty, the meat on his bones would end her hunger for the rest of the day. She grinned as the man, looking confused continued to walk forward.

“This is the home of that Gold Guy...right? Storm-trooper? I don’t think you understand.” The man began to walk forward before Eudocia growled and he brought up his sword in a defensive manner.

“Stop trying to hurt my King. Just tell your boss to leave us alone!” Her eyes narrowed down as the warrior began to raise his eyebrows in confusion. However, she could not bring herself to understand his confusion and brandished her claws before leaping towards him.

------

Gilgamesh was sitting in the lavish living room in his Golden Throne, leaning against his armrest lazily looking around his grandiose room. The velvet padding on the throne was so comfy and he just sank into it. Man was his life great, two new primes here to join up in his kingdom. Oh how great his plans were coming together and he was no longer the weakling that everyone made fun of but the proud ruler was now powerful. Oh how great it was to be King.

Speaking of that new prime...what was he up to. He knows Crona is here to try and kill him...luckily the King was in a humorous mood to forgive him and offer him to join. However, that new one...he provided him medical attention but what was his story. He had to be wary with that one. Anos walked in with a silver platter of orderves and offered one to the King as he lay there on the chair. The King took one of the deviled eggs and munched on it while thinking of a way to make them on their side. The old man was about to leave the room before Gilgamesh spoke.

“Anos, send the other servants over to the two. I feel as if they need to be...persuaded to stay...by experience the pleasures of serving me. Once Gilgamesh had enough followers he wouldn’t need to do this but since they are the first of value...the should be coaxed into completely serving the King.

“Yes my King.” Anos bowed before leaving the room to go do the King’s bidding. Gilgamesh slumped further back into his comfortable chair and he closed his eyes for a minute. His lunch sitting well with his desire to take a small nap. The fireplace crackling in the heath, the toasty warmness of his Palace. Oh how he enjoyed life’s pleasures. His eyes heavily slumped down until he was asleep.

Consciousness was kind to him. The King stretched out his arms with a yawn and got up, scratching his matted hair. He looked around to see the stained glass of his glorious figure in good shape, his people worshiped him like they should have. He frowned for a second...man he wishes his worthy citizens were here again. He sighed and exited the luxurious room into a long, stretching hallway with such pretty windows in front of him. He saw the red sun glimmering with it’s heat sink down into earth. The universe was proving itself to him that he was the first of all things in the universe and that things should bend to his will. He saw Anos walk down the hall furiously with his book and he passed the King without a hello. Gilgamesh saw the servant realize his mistake as he backtracked to the King to greet him, as he should.

“Hello my King, everything is being taken cared of.” His voice had a hint of hurriedness in it.

“Oh? What is there to be attended to? Gilgamesh raised his eyebrow in a mixture of curiosity and his lack of patience.

“Oh yes I had the other servants give the primes a massage and currently they are taking them to the sauna.” Anos’ face looked worried as if he was hiding something...and the King didn’t like secrets hid from him. He took another step towards Anos and pressed his face closer to his peering into his eyes.

“What else is going on Anos? You know I hate being lied to. Anos nervously backed up against the glass where he chuckled a bit.

“Well uhh...you see my King we have a bit of a problem. Your pet is taking care of it though... You see...A Stormtrooper has made his way here-”

“WHAT!?” The King’s face turned into anger and rage as his fist slammed into the wall next to him. How could this have happened under the his nose? His rage filled glare turned to Anos as he sheepishly gave the King a reassuring smile.

“However, your majesty, the situation is under control by your pet. We will have the Stromtrooper taken care of within an hour and have the man ready for questioning and torture once the lion has neutralized it.”

Gilgamesh continued to peer into Anos’ eyes before backing off slowly and rubbing the bruise that had come from smashing his fist into a wall. “Ah yes, well make sure it’s fixed and taken care of by the morning. I do not wish to interrogate the man myself. Make sure you ask him as many questions as possible before feeding him to my pet.” The King walked off to the other end of the room as Anos continued to speak.

“Yes sire.”

[Joline]

Agnès joins the thread! Woo!
Only the last four paragraphs are really relevant to Nippur, but if you feel like reading, the whole post is there, too~

Agnès stepped through the other side of the arch, where her boots connected (Barely) with the sand below her. She felt herself almost lose her balance, which was hard enough to keep with what she was wearing. Going from invisible but perfectly solid ground to sand, which was almost fluid in texture, was certainly a strange feeling - More so when it was immediate and uncalled for. The closest thing she had to a hint of what she would see through the gate was the gate's material, and that did little to impress. Fortunately, the desert felt much more like home than a blank canvas of a world, so Agnès broke the closest thing to a smile she had made for a while. How long had it been since she had spent time in a desert aside from the short walk between Grandship's ideal landing point in Ancheim's desert and the Wind Temple?

The Wind Temple... Oh, and Ancheim's desert. How they rung bells in the vestal's mind made her heart ache. She knelt and took a fistful of sand, only to let it slip between her fingertips; She could feel the familiarity in the sand, how it felt so welcoming. Though many had distaste for this kind of place, it felt nostalgic for Agnès. She rose and looked around - Brief bursts of hot wind flew past Agnès from the west, kicking up some sand here and there, but no sand flew up higher than her hips, so her vision was not obscured in any way. With a quick squint at the sun, blistering in heat as it always was in deserts, she wondered if what she was wearing would be adequate protection from its rays. She doubted so, but white reflected sunlight if her limited desert survival knowledge did not fail her, so everything but her hands would likely be fine.

Her eyes drifted about, finding little stimuli in the rolling hills and occasional flatlands in the sand, with the rare beaten path leading to nowhere barely visible through the sand. Civilization had crossed this desert at one point, she could figure out that much, but where had it gone? Other than the gate she had traveled through, she saw no immediate answers. If Omnilium could truly make anything she desired, it could make her some water if she began dehydrating, so she decided taking a worn dusty-rose stone pathway just west of the gate. Perhaps that would lead her somewhere in this ocean of sand, as her lack of navigational skills certainly would not.

Before long, her travels led her to a fork in the road, with a few signs pointing in various directions. She tilted her head slightly to the left and involuntarily made a puzzled expression, as none of the locations reminded Agnès of anything, or anywhere she had been. By now she knew Luxendarc like the back of her hand, as she had traveled almost everywhere that one could travel to thanks to Grandship and Ringabel's natural talent when it came to piloting it... But even the signs seemed confused as to where they were pointing to. On each sign the words were very messily written, as if whoever was writing them was in some kind of hurry. Agnès could make out an e, w, capital B, a and y on one sign, with a scratched-away b in between the a and y. On another she could see "LAV /" and the third sign was just blank. Either the literacy rate in this desert was worrying or its inhabitants were less than intelligent. She decided to continue towards "ew Bay", since it appeared as if there were not many other options.

As she continued her walk, with little thoughts to occupy her mind, she considered a possibility for the signs she had seen earlier being messy was that this desert had only recently been inhabited again. While some signs of civilization from long ago did exist, so did similar signs exist in Ancheim's desert. She had yet to find anything to prove the latter part, which involved finding some sort of new camp or town or something that passed for an abode.

It was about then that she saw a city that very much reminded her of Ancheim. All it needed was a massive clock and Agnès might have mistaken it for Ancheim on first glance. It certainly seemed extravagant, more so than the desert and giant clock country, making it appear to be some kind of diamond of the desert. As she drew closer, however, it seemed while there were more than a few people about, she felt a strange sort of tension in the air. It was unlike anything she had ever felt. She received curious looks as she continued her stride through the city, which spread the worried feeling to Agnès herself. She hoped, desperately, that this was the city she knew deep down and that she might find Khamer inside the palace ahead... But he had loyalty to the Duchy of Eternia, not his own country, and he had made that clear. She began hoping instead for someone else, though the strange familiarity she felt here was slightly comforting.

She stopped a few steps from the palace gates and was greeted non-verbally by an elderly man, who seemed less than impressed by her. Agnès felt a bad feeling almost immediately - She hadn't handled royalty or even nobility in a while. It was always Tiz or Edea that did that in their group, though her title did hold weight among most, so she was used as leverage so people would hear them out. Here, she imagined, she would not have that same luxury. She was receiving a glare from the man, a glare that made a feeling like her words fleeing from her. Still, she stomached the feeling and kept herself going. She offered a bow, with one hand over the other on her thighs. "I am Agnès Oblige, vestal of wind. If I may request--"

"I don't know anything about any vestals, or even what a vestal is," the elder interrupted. "Are you a new Prime?" he asked, and his confirmation came from Agnès' confused expression - She was not often interrupted, so that caught her off-guard, and she had yet to meet anyone that called her a 'Prime' or did not know about her status as a vestal. Poorly dodging the question in her mind of what are you talking about, she continued, "I would like to request an audience with--"

This time she was interrupted not by words but with laughter. "You want to see the great King Gilgamesh? You? You're nobody! What makes you expect the King would give even a moment of his precious time to you?" That made Agnès think. What right did she have to barge in and expect audience? Perhaps the King was busy with matters of his own. Or perhaps he wasn't, and just didn't see fit to give her the time of day? Then again, this was not the King himself. Would this man be saying this if his King were looking over his shoulder? "...Hm. Then again, you don't look completely incompetent. And if you are a new Prime, my King would without a doubt want to see you." Agnès looked up and let a little hope spill out onto her face as the gates began to open before her.

She stepped through the gate and walked through the palace certainly fit for a king, proven only by the fact that it was for a king.

[Strazio Rockwell]

Strazio listened to the strange boy and fiddled with his Darkshire crest. Why is he so nervous? Strazio thought and stepped from his perch on the door. Suddenly a strange beast erupted from the boys back. Strazio's magick kicked into gear and sparks crawled across his body, preparing him for any form of attack. The creature didn't seem to be actively hostile, but its words were harsh and full of fury. Strazio took a deep breath, quieting his own anger as Ragnarok ranted. He want to blast a hole in the impish creature, but attacking a guest of the king seemed to be poor manners to say the least. The devilish creature crawled back into Crona and Strazio's magick quieted down.

"I'm sure he's pleasant once you get to know him" Strazio laughed a bit nervously trying to clear the air. Is he a warlock? What is this boy? In Strazio's world warlocks were powerful spellcasters that bound demons into their skin through the use of magick-infused ink. Once bound demons had no will of their own, but Ragnarok was different he most certainly had a will of his own. He had ran into a few devilish warlocks in his time and every one of them kept a short leash around their "pets" Crona barely seemed in control of the monster. Strazio clenched the emblem in his hand and answered Crona's question "Not exactly, I've got a promise to keep and getting pinned down serving a desert king would make it hard for me to keep it." He thought back to his promise to Dmitri, he told the sniper that he would rip the gates from Dracula's castle and save the Pale Moors. "No I'm here to ask for a favor from the great king."

"A favor?" Crona asked.

Before Strazio could elaborate further a servant came behind him and made his presence known. A younger fellow, but following suit with the other he was dressed quite dapper. His posture was near perfection as were his manner. The prime was not used to such refinement and he felt a bit off-put by the servant's presence.

"King Gilgamesh wishes to offer the luxuries of New Babylon to his honored guests." the servant told the two primes.

Strazio shrugged and looked back at Crona who was still tucked away in his corner. The boy didn't seem to be the sociable type, but then again with a demon growing out of his back who could really blame him for being that way? Perhaps the kid just needed time to adjust to the place, or perhaps that was just the way he was. Either way, with or without Crona Strazio wasn't going to pass on the opportunity to partake in some fineries. He could get used to the life of luxury, but in the back of his mind he knew it wouldn't last forever and eventually he would have to return to Darkshire; the champion of the people couldn't afford to get bogged down in decadence.

"I'm game, I'd appreciate it if you came along Crona. Even though we just met you are the only person I know here so I wouldn't mind your company" he smiled as sincerely as he could at Crona before stepping out into the hallway. Strazio looked the servant up and down and asked him "I appreciate the wonderful hospitality, but could you be kind enough to do something for me?"

"And that would be?" the servant raised his eyebrow. He seemed eager to serve and Strazio took his opportunity to ask.

"I want to have an audience with King Gilgamesh. Now I know he's a busy guy what with being the king and all and I'm not in a hurry, but the sooner the better please."

"Most certainly sir, I will ask him for you after I lead you to the sauna room" the servant gave Strazio a half-bow before turning around "if you'll follow me sir."

Strazio glanced back at Crona who had stepped up to the threshold of the door. The boy was holding one arm and spoke shyly "I uhm... I-I'd like to come with... if you don't m-mind"

Crona tried to avoid eye-contact and rubbed his one arm. Strazio grinned from ear to ear and wrapped his arm around the young boy, pulling him close. He realized that he might've have been too rough with Crona and quickly let go of his embrace, but he still spoke with enthusiasm "That's the spirit!". The two followed the servant as he led them through the palace. Portraits of the king lined the walls and gold was a common motif amongst the decorations. Everything was well-crafted without being gaudy. This king sure knows how to decorate a room Strazio thought so himself and they walked along. Eventually the servant brought them to the sauna and offered them a drink of wine before entering. Strazio smiled at the gracious offer and spoke as he grabbed a golden cup filled with the liquid "I'm not much of drinker, but what the hell I'll have some"

Inside the sauna he removed his shirt, revealing the red chevron burned into his chest and the plethora of scars covering his body. The bandaged that covered him had a few blood-stains, but for the most part his wounds had healed. He looked over at Crona and finally asked "So, that thing crawling out of your back, what is it?"

Let me know if that's good for you Crona, if you don't want to follow I can get this post edited.

[Miranda Frost]

*Clang* *Clang*

A bell sounded off in the distance, yet not to far from where he stood, no doubt this place was on high alert for those white knight guys in which he stole this nifty little bike of theirs. If an alarm sounded, then relief would be sent. Conflict could perhaps ensue, however they would more likely ask Seraph to stand down. His body itched for a fight, but not with other lowly servants such as himself, only the Gold Man interested him. It was said he was strong. Seraph wanted to put this to the test.

It would be silly to say he was excited. It was obviously so by the wide, sharp grin upon his face, arms crossed while tapping his foot impatiently against the dusty ground.

Finally.. the response he was waiting for was finally here. Sure this little furry beast didn't bring an armed force with her, but Seraph had seen beings wipe cities from existence with a sweep of a finger, or the dropping of a single bomb. Most of Seraph's abilities were stripped upon arriving in this land along with his Pesquisa, his ability to accurately locate and measure spiritual pressure and energy. Until this little woman decided to move, attack, or anything else, Seraph would not know what this thing was capable of.

Look at her.. all smug and pleased with her comment as if that would defeat Seraph or turn him away. He didn't know what this Stormtrooper was though.. but he felt he should have. He looked back at his transportation of choice and sighed lowly. Those white knights WERE Stormtroopers.. and this lady thought he was one of them which... didn't strike him right. He looked over his apparel again. He ware his traditional Espada garb, A bleach white robe tied at the waist with a crimson sash in which his zanpakuto was tied to. He didn't wear his wooden mask, so that hung at his side with a thin hempen rope. His uniform was heavily dyed and bloodied from.. well... blood. He wore his headband over his eye to hide a certain something.

His cyan eye trailed over the furry person's form and tilted his head to the side at her. “This is the home of that Gold Guy...right? Storm-trooper? I don’t think you understand.” He coughed and walked forward, drawing his blade that shown a black as dark as night, holding it forward loosely and in a mock defensive manner. If a fight happened, win or lose this furry lady didn't deserve his full potential. THAT was reserved only for the Gold Guy, the man in which Seraph aspired to serve. He stopped some eight or so feet from the lady, holding out his blad with one hand, the point facing the ground and the edge facing her.

“Stop trying to hurt my King. Just tell your boss to leave us alone!”

She leeped forward, a furry mess of emotional issues, as if she were trying to prove something. She swiped at him with her claws but with a twist of his sword, He blocked them with the flat of his blade, but only barely. Had he no prepared himself earlier, even a little, the precision of the strike would have bypassed Seraphs gaurd. He would have been able to shift his defense as he was fast enough, though his stance was very lax. The blade shook under the weight of her strike, Seraph holding her at bay.

"Foolish girl... do I don Stormtrooper armor? Do I brandish their guns?" He frowned disapprovingly at her and brought his hand up, tugging his coat to the side to reveal the bottom of his neck, in which lie a space not occupied by flesh blood bone or clothing. It was a perfect circle at the front of his body and the back and one could see the background as clear as day. "Stormtroopers are human yes? Then why.... am I able to breath, talk, or even move with this gaping hole in my neck? I'll tell you.. because I am an Arrancar.. not a human you ditz"

He growled lowly in warning, his patience wearing thin. "I have no Master girl...Which is why I'm here to see yours.. so.. take me to him"

[Crona]

Crona lets off a bit of a weak smile after being freed from Strazio's embrace, the movement came widely unexpected and the boy didn't quite know how to react. Still, he pretended like it never happened, and happily followed Strazio down the decadent hallways of Gilgamesh's castle. He vaguely wondered somewhat how many servants the King had at his disposal, they seemed to be endless and omnipresent, but he wasn't about to complain about being treated so nicely.

Like Crona's first contact with most things, he was somewhat stunned after arriving at the Sauna, staring wide-eyed between the door, the servant, and Strazio, who was already inside and busily removing his shirt. Instead of removing his own clothing, Crona idly takes one of the wine-filled golden cups that the servant was offering, before quickly taking a seat opposite Strazio. He stared deeply into the dull red of the wine in his glass, but never took a drink, instead simply drifting off in thought.

The daydream was very short-lived, however, and he shakes his head quickly to bring himself back to reality to answer his companion's question. "Oh...Oh, Ragnarok?" He begins, looking up from the golden cup, only now seeing Strazio's significant and strange scarring that seemed to crawl up and down his entire body. Crona wondered what sort of attack he must have survived to get such a ravaging mark on his body, or perhaps it was something else. The sight was enough to make the boy take a second or two to pause, before regaining his focus and looking around the room as he spoke. "Ragnarok? Well, its...its a Demon. A Demon Sword, to be more precise..." Crona hums lightly to himself, considering how much information he should give Strazio, considering they had, after all, just met barely a few fleeting moments ago. "Its a little...well, complicated. I'm t-the only one that exists, so I've been told, though considering what I had to go through to get one, I'm not surprised..." He swallows deeply and squeezes his limbs closer into his body, despite the significant heat, which only increased in severity since he had refused to remove his deep black clothing. "Uhm... I just... I got power from it, w-which is nice, but I dont...know, it might not have been worth it."

He wiggles awkwardly on his seat, he was clearly sweating now, but he refused to change his stature whatsoever to get some relief. "Oh, you were going to tell me why you came to the castle?" Crona says softly before looking down into the wine cup again, cracking a tiny smile as he traced the edge of the cup with a slender finger. "You know, I actually...actually came here to kill Gilgamesh. He had a bounty on his head, and the E-Empire told me I owed them, so I could repay by debt by filling a bounty. Now I'm on his side... Well, the E-Empire are mean anyway, so I don't even mind."

"As long as we have something to eat." Ragnarok's voice suddenly invades his thoughts, and Crona immediately shakes his head again to clear his mind, though quickly regaining his hunched posture. "Oh, uhm, sorry, I sort've went on a tangent there... He quickly glances towards the door, before looking back into the deep red wine. "Uh, so yea, What was this favor you were talking about? And whats the story behind your scars?" The boy repeats inquisitively, tilting his head slightly.

[Gilgamesh]

Eudocia grinded her teeth together as she peered at the man in the white. He did make a solid point. She fought many stormtroopers and he certainly did look like one…however, why did he have their vehicle? She felt uneasy about letting this man enter her King’s palace, however she does not want to get scolded again. This must be another washed up prime attempting to ally with the powerful King Gilgamesh and his powerful Kingdom. She stood straight back up and wiped the dust off of her linen shirt and let out lofty “Hmph.”

“I guess if you wish to see my King that’ll be alright with me. You just made everyone scared with the color of your clothing and your vehicle. As long as you don’t harm anyone here, you are welcome.” She accentuated her wording to make herself sound proper and just to have the upper hand as her sour mood made her not want to do anything for the man. She turned off and walked towards the palace.

“Follow me.” She wasted no effort, begrudgingly taking the man to the palace, the large, extravagant place that she was now accustomed to. She was glad she was able to help the King make his visions come true. His Kingdom was gaining popularity fast and there was nothing the Empire could do to stop them. A sly grin came onto her face at the thought of being feared across the Omniverse, striking fear into the Emperor's heart as she would eat him alive. She began to doze off and she shook her head into clarity as she entered the large palace. Oohh a new fountain. She noted as she saw the marble fountain with the centerpiece of an angel. It made her smile a bit at the use of water in the desolate wasteland and she hoped that it wasn’t all to waste. Then again he could always summon more water. She giggled and looked around for any signs of her King.

Oh there was the balding servant. She hurried over, dragging the prime with her as she saw the mature servant standing outside the King’s throne room. She nearly ran over the elderly man as she came next to him. The old man let out a sigh and pushed the woman off of him.

“Our King is currently meeting with a Prime...and I see you brought another. We’ll send him in after the meeting.” The old man sighed as he guarded the door “anxiously” waiting for the primes return so he can do whatever the hell his King wants.

“Is the meeting over yet?”

“No”

“How about now?”

“No”

“How about-”

“BE SILENT WILL YOU!” Anos exclaimed before rubbing his eyes together in frustration, hoping that the meeting would be over soon.

------


Gilgamesh sat in his golden throne sprawled out on his chair bored and started to groan. He was so tired and he needed to sleep or get a massage. He’ll just order his servants to do that later, his back was super tense. A knocking came from the door and Gilgamesh sat upright really quickly making himself looking official like. He put his head down on his hand and cleared his throat.

“Yes come in.” The door opened and Gilgamesh saw Anos come in with a lady prime. She wasn’t unattractive, however Gilgamesh was obviously more attractive than her. Well then again, certainly all treasures belong to him so he doesn’t have to choose. He couldn’t help but snicker a pompous snicker before looking at the two before him. Anos bowed to the King before speaking.

“Your majesty, this Prime requested an audience with you and I did my duty to bring her to you.” Anos left the room and closed the door to the throne room leaving the woman and the King alone. The woman stepped forward and went to one knee before speaking diligently.

“Your highness there is something important I must talk to you about.” She brought up her head to look at the King as he raised an eyebrow ready to listen to her proposition.

[Joline]

Agnès knelt a familiar kneel, though her boots brought her great discomfort as they bent and stretched peculiarly. It would take a while, certainly, for her to grow used to them. However, that was scarcely a worry now - Her main concern should be what was going on here, and what this King knew of it. "I am Agnès Oblige, vestal to the Crystal of Wind. I understand that your people do not seem to know of my title, but I believe it only fit to give you my full name." She looked up, eyes trained on the King's, all bright crimson. They brought a bit of shock to the surface, showing slightly in Agnès' expression. "I recall not long ago awakening in a white void. I was spoken to by a powerful creature beforehand, who mentioned a name... It spoke of this as the 'Omniverse'." She clearly struggled to repeat the word, as it was beyond unfamiliar. "It told me little but that. I request simply that you share with me your knowledge of this land," she finished.

It was clear that the King was irritated. He did not seem to like eye contact, and so she broke it and shut her eyes with her face towards the floor. He also, however, seemed at least somewhat intrigued upon her mention of the Wind Crystal. "You request something of me?" he said. "Why would I even waste my time telling you such trivial knowledge? I am the King! I am giving you a privilege by standing in my kingdom without enlisting and yet you ask for more?" Again, this was a decent point. Agnès certainly had no authority here if there were no Crystals, and if there were no Crystals, there was no Crystalism, no Crystal Orthodoxy. "I do not demand this of you - I only request it."

"If you have nothing to offer me then leave my presence at once. You two over there! Show her the exit. You may stay here for an additional day before you must take your leave from my Kingdom..and consider that my gift to you." Agnès' eyes widened - This seemed beyond uncalled for. She rose and looked the King in the eyes again, pushing away her fear of them. "Your Highness, I implore you to reconsider!" At that she received a glare, and she felt hands on her arms, attempting to drag her backwards. "No-- No!" She turned her head over her shoulder to see the man at the gate earlier, who was presumably the Anos that the King mentioned. She pushed away from him and, though she struggled to do so in heels, ran to the throne on which the King sat and fell to her knees steps away from it.

"Please... I know of nowhere else to go. I am alone... I am lost..." She muttered to the floor. Her hands instinctively went together and her fingers intertwined as she regained her composure. She rose again and stepped back. "I do not know what else to do or where else to go." Her eyes rose from the floor to Gilgamesh's face one again. It seemed she truly had no composure on her own after having allies around her for so long. "I fear I've no one to turn to now but you..." Her voice sounded drained, and she felt the same - She knew not when the last time it was that she had the opportunity to rest or even shut her eyes for more than a moment.

"Please…"

[Strazio Rockwell]

Strazio listened to the boy speak; he seemed more open if only slightly. The prime drank the rest of his wine, even after a few sips he was feeling the effects of the alcohol. Strazio made it a point to avoid drinking and it made his tolerance damn near nonexistent. He closed his eyes and reclined backwards, taking in the pleasures of the sauna. So I was right, Ragnarok is a demon he thought to himself before setting the golden chalice down. Crona showed interest in his scars and he held up his hand, palm facing the ceiling.

"Power always comes at a cost, as I'm sure you know. I don't know if you have magick where you come from, but in my experience binding a demon into your body requires an incredible knowledge of magick" he spoke and began to channel arcs of white-hot energy along his forearm. "Now, magick needs a conduit to be channeled properly. Most mages use a staff or incantations, or in some rare cases demons. I use my body as a conduit, my own flesh and blood is sacrificed in order to call upon devastating magicks." A burst of white hot energy exploded upwards from his hand. The energy vaporized the air and left behind a thunderclap. Strazio showed Crona his slightly burnt palm. "Most of my scars are self inflicted, except for this one." Strazio rubbed the chevron burnt into his chest, the scar that Damien Alabaster gave him. He took a deep breath and looked over at Crona "when I was young, a man came to my village. His name was Damien Alabaster and he was a mage much like myself. Well, he burned my village to the ground and killed everyone I cared about. This mark on my chest is his brand, he allowed me to live and told me to never forget who ruined my life."

Energy arced across Strazio's body, responding to the anger deep in his heart. There was an awkward moment of silence between Crona and Strazio. After quieting his anger Strazio spoke again "ah, but perhaps that's a bit too heavy of a topic. You asked why I came to see Gilgamesh, well I made a promise to the people of Darkshire." He clutched the Darkshire emblem that hung from his neck and continued "I told them I would kill Dracula, and I try to make it a habit to not go back on promises. At any rate I'm trying to put together a small army of primes to help me keep my promise and our host seems to be quite influential. So I'm going to ask him for help, if he can forgive someone sent here to kill him surely he can see it in his heart to help me."

The same servant from before entered the sauna and spoke "King Gilgamesh has granted you an audience and will now see you sir"

"Excellent!" Strazio exclaimed, the slight buzz from the wine added to his excitement. He stood up and wiped off the sweat and steam from his body with a nearby towel. His shirt was pulled tight over his body, covering the Darkshire crest. Strazio looked over at Crona and motioned for him to follow along. Strazio followed the servant back along the hallways to the throne room. He would have been nervous if not for the wine in his gut. Strazio's excitement got the better of him and he walked past the servant and opened the door to the throne room. Strazio walked in, taking note of the female who was kneeling before the king. Strazio rubbed his scarred arms and felt that he had accidentally interrupted something important. He stepped forward and nodded to the female as he passed. The king seemed irritated by his presence, perhaps a long day but more than likely because of his accidental intrusion.

"Sorry for barging in, your servant said that you were ready to have an audience with me" he chuckled softly, the gravity of the situation finally settled in.The prime clenched his fists and steeled himself, hoping that Gilgamesh would not be upset by his intrusion.

[Gilgamesh]

He watched the lightweight prime barge on into his meeting just as it was getting good. The woman who had come in with so much dignity was now on her knees pleading for the King to give her a chance. Oh how he enjoyed it when people were on their knees in fear and subservience. An evil grin came to his face as he sat back and enjoyed the spectacle.

However, the show was over as the wounded prime had ran into the meeting room and obviously had too much to drink. The stagger in his was quite the sign that things were not going to go well with the prime. How could he present himself in this way to his King. He told them to enjoy themselves, not to be barbarians and indulge in the gifts he bestowed upon them. A glare became more prominent and he shifted in his seat as the man began to speak.

“Be silent. I am currently busy and would appreciate it if I would not be intruded in such a bad time.” The King let out a sigh as he pondered for a bit, his face leaning against his fist. The man who stood beneath his glare shifted in anxiety as he murmured a quick apology. His cheeks flushed with color as he rubbed his arm. The other prime slowly walked inside and seemingly tried to hide behind the group.

He raised his arm and waved a drawing motion towards himself. “Anos, please bring the other Prime in here. I may as well finish this all in one sitting. Oh and tell a servant to bring me more wine. I am having quite the headache.” The entire group of potential primes was here before him. While one was a bit...abrupt for his taste he couldn’t complain, I mean he has a monster in his back pocket.

His head slowly back towards the woman who seemed so desperate for the King’s knowledge. He didn’t know if this was just due to the abrupt abrasiveness the man had displayed or the slight bit of humor he had received from the begging but he was beginning to show a liking for this woman. “Agnès now was it?” The King cleared his throat and the remembrance of her pleading right beneath the King’s boot was quite amusing and he had to force himself not to laugh. With a half-smile on his face he continued. “Very well, your pleas for help have changed my mind. I shall tell you what I know and will offer you permanent residence in my Kingdom if you wish.” The priestess thanked her make-believe gods and an expression of thankfulness appeared on her face.

The King’s head turned to the small boy how he had to swallow his pride to forgive. At least he was the sign of more newcomers and he seemed...susceptible to his commands. He would make a good soldier if he learned to not be such a coward. “And you Crona, what is it that you wish to tell me?” The King raised an eyebrow, being a little more lenient on an actual member of his nation.

The boy shifted underneath the King’s stare he rubbed his neck before speaking. “Well, I was just curious to what you would need help with in y-your Kingdom?” Gilgamesh thought a second before speaking to the boy. “Why yes, I’m glad that you asked. I’ll have you assist me in taking down Empire operations in Carrefore. We shall leave before nightfall. The King smiled at the boy, he was starting to grow fond of him. Subservient, willing to help, very quiet. This kid was getting on Gilgamesh’s good side. He’ll keep the boy around for a long time.

Eudocia rushed in, and if she had a tail...it would be wagging. “My King, I brought you a powerful prime! He is very strong and I attacked him just because he looked like a Stormtrooper! But then he told me he was a prime and- and- and then I brought him here for you King!” The monster looked at Gilgamesh with beady eyes and he let a faint smile slip his lips. Her face light up with excitement as she finally got her King’s approval and she bolted out the door and down the hall one can hear a faint, “Yessss!”

Anos slammed the door and sighed...obviously Eudocia was getting on the older man’s nerves and Gilgamesh couldn’t help but chuckle at her innocence. His eyes set firm on the prime as the man stepped forward before him. The man in all white did a little bow before removing his headband and unzipping his jacket. A hole was placed at his neck...The man was obviously not human. Gilgamesh gazed intently trying to understand the the man that stood before him. He put his fingers to his head as he stared at the man before him. The man was some sort of...hollowed out soul. Gilgamesh peered at him unsteadily, unaware of the man’s intentions.

"Ah good Lord. I must first apologize over my undesirable appearance.. a few stormtroopers had decided to bleed on me and shoot at me. I am Seraph and Espada, or Sword. Much like a sword I require someone skilled to wield me and like a seraph I require someone powerful to praise. I believe you may be that person." The King gave him a nod and a smile and the man seemed relieved at the affirmation.

"Good, however I must test my Wielder, My Lord. It wouldn't be suiting for one's blade to fell oneself."

“Oh? I see. Well, I understand you gave my pet some problems… The King paused in his speech before peering at the man. “I guess toying with you shall relieve my boredom" The King hunched over on his back and sat himself at the end of his chair interested in the conversation he was having.

Seraph lost the formality, responding coyly and seemed to make a joke towards the King. "Eh? the crazy wolf-lady-person that attacked me? In defense.. all I did was show up into town." Seraph couldn’t help but snicker as he spoke.

The King raised an eyebrow, “The bell was rung. The townspeople must have thought you were intimidating and unfriendly. However, I apologize for the inconvenience.” This one was someone that needed to be watched...carefully.

Seraph would smile wide and child-like, twirling the headband between his fingers anxiously "Well Mister Gold-Lord-King since you're so nice I'll forget about this incident.. figuratively. They aren't half wrong though... it is complicated" The King laid back in his chair as he continued to peer at the man.

“The name is King Gilgamesh. He turned his face towards the drunken man. “And you, the one who barged in so unceremoniously. What is it that you seek?” His face was irritated at the man who had interrupted the Great King Gilgamesh.

The man stood there proudly, however tried to maintain a respectful attitude towards the King who had so graciously care for him. The man was obviously soldier material but what did he require. “My host, Great King Gilgamesh, I request a small favor from you.”

Gilgamesh raised an eyebrow, “Oh?” He shifted in his seat as he got into a more comfortable position. “Now what would that favor involve me doing?” A servant came into the room with a glass of wine and he nodded as he received the beverage.

“Well...all I ask of you is to help the Citizens of Darkshire and their quest to end evils and purge their land from the evil Dracul-” The man was cut off by the King as he let out a giant yawn.

“No.”

“What?”

The King turned from his sleepy gaze down onto the man who looked confused at the abrupt response. “I said no. I do not have the assets nor do I wish to go to this Darkshire.” The King’s red eyes narrowed down upon the man as he sized him up.

The man’s returned the glare with a hint of anger and spite. "I'm a dangerous man Gilgamesh, I'm sure you could use the help of some dangerous primes around here. I'm just asking for help taking down Dracula, you can have any riches in his castle, I just want him dead and in the Underverse.”

"All the riches he has belong to me already! Maybe he shall be the first one I take down in the future but not until I gain enough power to overthrow my current enemy...and who are you to offer me help when your affiliations lie beyond my realm!" The King stood up in anger as he leaned over his throne.

The man was obviously getting angry as he threw spite towards Gilgamesh. "You should be flattered that I'm asking for the help of a king of sand and dust. I'm offering you the alliance of a very powerful prime. I can even prove it" Energy arcs streaked across his body as scatters of energy flew into the air. People looked in awe of the “show” that the man was displaying.

“YOU DARE FIRE WEAPONS IN THE KINGS ROOM! You are nothing! I would not spare the time to deal with you personally! I am the King of everything and you dare to question me?!” The King was shouting in anger. His red eyes glowed with a fire of passion and the people in the room jolted in a moment of fear. He wanted to end the prime right then and there for his insolence. The man stood up beneath his glare, giving him the same expression Gilgamesh had.

A ping went of on the King’s phone and he unsteadily broke eye contact with the man before him. He brought the wine glass to his lips as he unlocked the smartphone and he saw a banner on the top of his phone. “Dante’s Abyss Rankings-Check Out the Hottest Primes Here!” Gilgamesh clicked the banner as it popped up. It automatically brought it to the news station as Gilgamesh watched the clip he saw these...items of power. These artefacts and this Karl Jak had them. He grit his teeth as he saw the mongrel showing off the King’s items. How dare this Jak steal his treasures.

The King typed up a reply and in a fit of rage, he slammed down his wine glass, causing shards of glass to fly from his seat. Anos ran towards the King to help him with his bloodied and cut hand.

“My liege, what has upset you? Is it that pestering child?” Anos had a distressed look on his face. He hated when his King threw temper tantrums.

Gilgamesh sighed before going on. “There is this event called “Dante’s Abyss. This mongrel is hosting this death arena event and offering MY TREASURES as a reward for success. Many powerful primes are going to be there. I MUST destroy them all and reclaim my treasures. The gall of those rabid dogs.” The King’s breathing became heavy and he stood up from his throne.

“I shall show you Gilgamesh I am a force to be reckoned with, mark my words.” The man who had just attempted to win over the King had glared him down and left the building in a dash. The remainder of people in the building were all watching Gilgamesh as he raised his hand and motioned the others to follow him exiting the room.

“Anos, lead Agnès to her room. I’m sorry but I cannot give you a personal explanation at the moment I have urgent matters. As for you two. Crona, Seraph, come with me. We shall go to reclaim my treasures.

[Strazio Rockwell]

Infuriated and still slightly intoxicated Strazio raged from the king's room. White-hot magic roared across his body and stung his skin, irritating him even more. Two armored soldiers stepped in stride with the fuming prime. Strazio surmised that they were there to make sure he left without incident, this angered him even more. He turned to the one on his left side and growled deep and low like rumbling thunder "get the fuck away from me or I'll tear you apart". The guard was stunned slightly by Strazio's threat, allowing himself to lag behind the prime a few steps. Normally he would hate threatening a harmless guard, but Gilgamesh had gotten under his skin in a way that few people did.

"Arrogant prick" he whispered under his breath as he shoved his way through the palace doors. In the streets of Nippur the prime's obvious rage impelled the civilians to give him a wide berth. The sparks crawling across his body left a small trail of burns on the ground as he walked, the energy begged to be released and Strazio wanted to carve a hole into the immaculate palace. Strazio took a deep breath and rubbed his singed arms, the pain helped him back to his senses. He scowled and kicked at the sand and dust, trying to get his mind off that damned king.

"How can that bastard just dismiss me like that?" the mage of rage fumed to himself. He remembered seeing advertisements for Dante's Abyss a sort of death arena for primes. An almost sinister smile crawled across Strazio's lips. I'll prove my strength to that arrogant bastard, I'll kick his ass in the Abyss. He knew that even if he placed first in the contest there was no guarantee that Gil would even speak with Strazio again, but if he placed well he could make a name for himself and find more allies. Hell even if he didn't place well it would give him an excuse to batter the great king Gilgamesh around. The thought quieted his anger and the magick that arced across his body subsided. He looked around and found a couple of wooden barrels to sit on and rest. Strazio held out his hand and a small ball of rainbow Omnilium formed in his hand. Strazio watched in silence as the orb shifted and formed into a long white cloak.

Covered by his signature cloak Strazio began walking towards the nearest gate. The entire way he clenched his fists tightly, still mulling over Gilgamesh. He secretly hoped to run into more dervish, or at least something he could justify annihilating. After several hours of grueling travel across the sand and dusts of the Dunes he finally made it to the nexus gate. He turned back to face the desert and growled under his breath and spit in the sand "I'm coming for you king of sand, I will prove my strength to you in the abyss"

[Shay Cormac]

Shay looked to both of his sides, still in the barren deserts of the Endless Dunes, only accompanied by the sand below his feet, the wind at his hair, and the family of three he had previously saved from a group of terrorizing bandits out in the middle of nowhere, or so it seemed. Shay stretched his arms upwards, not lifting the head which his wide-brimmed hat was placed upon.

Shay looked to the direction of Martha, a mother still holding her young daughter who went by the name Abby. Abby herself was about to doze off into sleep, to which Shay couldn't blame. Looking at the opposite side of which Martha was in terms of Shay's point of view stood Billy, the young teen son who seemed to be more bored of this than Shay was, surprisingly.

Still following the almost endless amount of broken down rail-road tracks, Shay continued to look forward, hoping to find something worthwhile on these sands. Breaking the silence, Billy suddenly began to speak, mostly towards Shay.

"Alright... We should be headin' off towards Nippur any moment now... Jus' keep lookin' on into the horizon, and you won't be able to miss it. Small city, but considerin' the place we're in, it's impressive." Billy said, as Shay looked backwards to face Billy, still walking.

"Hm... I might ask, how are we going to be getting in this 'Nippur' anyhow? I'd assume a city like that would be easily accessible without any guards patrolling the place." Shay asked Billy, awaiting a response to come. Billy smiled a bit, giving the message already that he knew what his plans were.

"Well, I already found a place for us three to live there, but since you've got other businesses to be attendin' to, I'll just tell 'em we brought someone extra. They'll recognize me, so don't you worry about it." Billy spoke to Shay, to which Shay turned back around, satisfied with how well Billy thought this through. Shrugging a bit, Shay was happy enough that they were about to reach their destination, at the very least. Shay continued to follow his eyes on the rails they were following, focusing on the horizon of the Verse's sands. The group continued to walk forwards, before the railroad suddenly stopped, sinking into a large, sandy hill. The four stopped for a moment, looking at each other.

Shay nodded his head to Martha, before beginning to walk up the sandy hill, Billy and his mother quickly following. The hill was steep, and the sand was loose, constantly threatening to knock Shay off of his balance with every step he took. Proceeding upwards, Shay put his hand at the top of the hill, climbing up, before taking Martha's hand and pulling her to Shay's level. Billy didn't need any assistance however, considering he got to the top before Shay himself did.

Looking at Billy stare off into the distance whilst smiling, Shay looked behind him after helping Martha, before his eyes were immediately met by a large stone city, guarded by a wall circling it's perimeter, and at it's front, a single huge two-door gate. Shay scratched at his subtly bearded chin at the sight, impressed with how it looked from where he stood. Billy interrupted the moment by sliding down the front of the sandy hill, to which Shay was about to do the same, before realizing Martha still needed help with Abby sleeping in her arms.

Holding Martha by the shoulder, Shay began to step down the hill, looking on at Billy, who continued walking. Martha giggled at Shay's offer for help, gratefully accepting it, silently rocking her child in her arms. The three still coming down the hill almost tripped a couple of times, but thankfully it didn't escalate more than a couple of missed steps.

Shay jogged towards Billy, remaining behind him so that he'd be the first to give an explanation to the guards standing at the gates of the city. Squinting his eyes, Shay saw the guards in question wore slightly bulky armor on top of their ragged clothes, helmets obstructing their faces. The two armored men standing on each side of the gate seemed to be emotionless, and more eerily, motionless. This tipped Shay off that this place indeed meant business.

Billy looked behind him, winking at Shay and Martha, then turning his back to run towards the guards, waving to them to make himself look friendly. The two guards started to stiffen their movements, before they loosened their muscles upon recognizing Billy's face. Billy continued to wave at the guards, jogging over, before slowing himself down to a walk. Shouting, Billy then exclaimed, "I brought everyone I said I would over!"

The guards looked at each other, before the two noticed Shay. As soon as Billy got close enough to the guards, the one on the right expressed his concerns, responding in a gruff accent to which Shay hasn't heard of before. "I see you have gotten your family, a woman and a little girl, but who is this man here? You did not mention anybody else in your leave." The guard on the right finished his words, crossing his arms. Billy put his hands to his side, smiling as he looked up to the guard on the right.

"Nope, he's a new friend of ours. Th' reason why we took so long is 'cause a huge group of banditos kidnapped us for whatever money we had on us... He came over to the town just as they were about to rob us of whatever we had at that time, before one of their damned scouts saw him coming over. They tied us up and hid us, but before we knew it, he found my mother, freed her, and took all of 'em thugs down for us." Billy explained to the guard, to which the armored man nodded his head.

The guard Billy was talking to signaled for his co-worker to open the gate with a tilt of a head and a thumbs up. The guard on the opposite end took a lever behind him, pressing it downwards, making a gigantic mechanical clicking sound. Both guards walked over to the handles of the gate itself, opening the huge metallic gates for the family and Shay to enter. Smiling, Shay nodded to Billy, bowing towards the guards whilst Martha closed her eyes to take a moment and admire how proud she was for her son.

"Isn't he precious, Shay?" Martha softly spoke, making sure not to wake up Abby, silently snoring in Martha's arms. Shay chuckled, glad with how things are turning out at the moment. He turned to Martha, replying in a low voice to match her tone. "Well, he certainly knows how to handle himself..."

When the group entered the city, the gates behind them closed with a loud metallic bash. Shay held onto his hat to make sure it was still on, making sure the wind pressure from the gates flew in their direction didn't cause it to come off of his head. Turning to Billy, Shay noticed he was about to walk off to the left of the city itself, as if he were set on which direction he was going. Martha was also following him. Billy then spoke to Shay in a somewhat loud tone of voice so he could hear, still walking.

"Shay! I'mma be moving off to our new house, getting everyone settled in. If ya wanna meet king Gilgamesh, just keep followin' the road you're standing on, straight as an arrow! Should lead you right to his palace! Thanks for all your help!" After Billy finished everything he needed to say, Shay responded, yelling back.

"I'll make sure to visit you three sometime! Enjoy yourselves!" Smiling, Shay then held his hat as he watched the group of three walk out of his sight, Martha waving at Shay before he couldn't see them anymore. Closing his eyes for a second, Shay sighed in relief, satisfied with how everything is going so far. Walking forwards, Shay began to notice more and more people populating the streets the more he entered the city itself. Merchants lining the sidewalks with their food stores, miniature bars popping up every so often, with locals walking in every which direction, going about their daily lives, seemingly a lot more happy than those in Coruscant.

It was only then Shay noticed how much he seemed to "blend in" with everybody here. Almost everyone wore similar apparel as Shay's, which could be described as very western-looking and dull-colored. Shay decided it would be best if he stood out in a crowd more, or at least attempt to look professional. Walking into a back alley-way of a couple small buildings, Shay made sure nobody was there to see him as he began to once again channel his Omnilium.

A bubble of light formed around Shay, as per usual with the summoning process. Shay expected his head to begin hurting, but for once, it was much easier on Shay's head, even though it still took just the right amount of focus. He figured his mind wasn't used to this strange energy just yet, and it was starting to ease on him, but Shay dismissed this thought immediately as he noticed the bubble of light around him fading, focusing harder.

Shay stood, leaning on the stone wall behind him, remaining like this for a few minutes as he summoned a new batch of clothes ever so slowly. The somewhat familiar sound of his Omnilium flowing throughout Shay's body let him know that his new clothes were finished. Well, new in this universe, anyways. Shay looked down as the bubble of light faded away from him, smiling as he saw a familiar set of red robes, laced in elegant golden designs on almost every line of the robes itself.

Shay adjusted his new undershirt, before running his gloved hand through his slicked back hair, glad he doesn't have to cope with a hat anymore, although he realized how much he'd come to miss it upon feeling the horrid heat of the sun almost directly above him. Shaking his head, Shay began to walk out of the alley, checking behind him if anybody saw he was a Prime, to which nobody was there, thankfully.

As if the removal of his hat brought to him some sort of heat-ridden curse, Shay suddenly began to feel thirsty again. He reached towards where he put his flask of water, before realizing it went away with the rest of the clothes he was wearing previously. Sighing, Shay walked towards a mini-bar, to which an old man behind it's single counter was selling drinks. Sitting down, Shay flipped up a coin from one of his pouches, sliding it off to the man behind the counter, who was cleaning a cup beforehand.

The elderly man caught the coin sliding across the table, before nodding towards Shay, preparing him a drink already. Shay was slightly impressed with how fast this service was. Tapping his fingers onto the table, the man preparing Shay's drink began to speak in a husky voice, indicating Shay the man really was as old as he looked.

"You look quite fancy to be roaming around in a town like this... Tell me, are you here to meet up with the king?" The old man slid a small cup filled with ice-cold whiskey across the table to Shay, to which Shay immediately grabbed and started drinking. The feeling of something cold soothed Shay to immense levels, almost to the point where he forgot the old man with quickly graying hair behind the counter was even talking to him. Putting the drink back on the table, Shay wiped his mouth, looking at the old man continuing to clean the small, used cups.

"Got that right, I've come here to talk with this 'Gilgamesh' fella." Shay finished his sentence, almost immediately going back to finishing his whiskey. It only took a couple of drinks to finish, but at least Shay left the cup empty as soon as he began to feel better about himself. Shaking his head, Shay passed off the cup to the old man, giving him yet more work to do, although he didn't mind in the slightest.

Stretching again, Shay almost began a yawn, only to be interrupted by the suddenly silent crowd, who then started to murmur amongst themselves. Shay looked in both of his directions, not quite sure what exactly was going on, before the people started looking in his rightmost direction. Looking with the crowd of people, they began to separate themselves from the street, as if somebody were passing by. Shay still couldn't see who or what exactly was coming his way, but the more and more people that got off of the street and onto the sidewalks, the more Shay tensed up.

It was as soon as Shay could see the street entirely, Shay saw three individuals who looked extremely outlandish from the rest of the city itself. The first one Shay observed was a little... boy, or girl, Shay couldn't tell. The little one had a purplish pink short hair, and a strange black "dress" that went down to the individual's ankles. He/she looked shy and timid, shaking beside the man in the middle. The one on the opposite side of the one in the middle was a man with white hair, and large white garbs, but his most noticeable feature was what Shay assumed to be a bandage wrapped around his left eye. All of his clothing was traced with subtle amounts of red, as well.

The two following the one person in the middle were certainly interesting sights to see, but not nearly as interesting as Shay thought this one in the middle was. From his neck to his toes, all the man was covered in was complete gold armor that glistened in the blistering sunlight. Everything about this kid screamed royalty, his blonde hair, jewelry, armor, complete confidence in his walk, how easily everyone got out of his way... This had to have been the supposed king Shay was after.

Shay slowly turned to the old man behind the counter, to which he nodded back to Shay. Now he knew, it was most definitely him. Gilgamesh.

Inhaling deeply, Shay put his hands on the table, getting up and making a small waving motion to the man behind him who had previously served him a drink. It was about time Shay met this king, although Shay still wasn't quite sure what exactly drew himself to this person in particular. The city he ruled seemed prosperous and it's citizens were happy, whereas in Coruscant, everything seemed to be a rush, or it was downright melancholic. If this king could protect these people that well, Shay would no doubt use his time for the good of these well-mannered people. If not them, at least for Martha.

Besides, it was about time Shay got up and fought for something. Shay made sure his hair was all the way back, and any traces of dirt (or blood, more importantly,) was wiped off of his clothes and face. Pulling his hands upwards, Shay popped up his collar, adjusting his crimson-red and golden robes. Shay slowly began to walk towards the street, which thankfully wasn't as populated with people to watch, but still a few looking on at their king passing by. As Shay moved towards the middle of the street, he put on what he hoped to be a gentle smile, loosening his shoulders to make himself look the least hostile as he possibly could.

Gilgamesh squinted his eyes at the sight of this sudden newcomer. The purple haired Crona, and the white-clad Seraph, for which Shay could not name yet, looked surprised at Shay's arrival. Crona, being confused and what looked to be somewhat scared, while Seraph seemed to be amused. Gilgamesh however, simply looked annoyed.

The tiny Crona shook a bit, half-expecting a sudden attack. After all, they were out in the open, it was easy for somebody like Shay to come up and eliminate anybody who looked to be so vulnerable. Seraph placed one foot backwards, thinking the same thing Crona was at that moment. Shay saw Crona's mouth quiver, before it opened, and (to Shay's educated guesses,) he began to speak.

"G-Gilgamesh... I-I mean, uhh, my king... Who is that man? He looks scary..." As Crona slowly looked up to Gilgamesh, the king himself dryly responding, still looking at Shay, who had stopped in the middle of the street just then.

"I do not know who this man is, but we shall soon find out." Gilgamesh squinted harder at Shay, the latter of whom was still trying to make himself look friendly. Raising his hand, Gilgamesh quickly pointing at Shay, raising his voice to what almost sounded like a scream.

"You! What business do you have here, blocking my path?! Do you not know I, king Gilgamesh, have much more important matters to attend to?

Gilgamesh's voice boomed, making the crowds go silent again. Shay blinked, his smile quickly fading. Puffing out a bit of air, Shay put his hands behind his back, straightening himself, before bowing down to Gilgamesh.

Shay, now kneeling before his soon-to-be king, spoke in his most confident voice he had. "King Gilgamesh, my name is Shay Patrick Cormac, and I have come to you in request to serve you and your city." After explaining this to Gilgamesh, Shay stood to his feet, keeping his back straight. Gilgamesh raised his eyebrow in response, lowering his hand. Shay continued.

"I originally came here as a result of my curiosity peaking from Empire propaganda, but seeing all of your citizens so prosperous made my curiosity turn into interest. Coming to the Omniverse as a Prime myself, I was quite lost, but I feel as if taking this chance to turn myself into something more than I already once was. I don't expect you to trust me so quickly, but if I can do anything at all to prove my worth to you and your people, I will gladly take it." Shay made his words quick and simple for Gilgamesh.

It was then Gilgamesh remembered that he was leaving his city with nobody going after the "joining process" in which to enter New Babylon. The Empire's influence in Carrefore was troublesome, especially considering the city's best man, Gilgamesh himself, won't be there to protect it. Besides, he couldn't turn down anybody wanting to serve him. There was something about Shay that caught Gilgamesh's eye, although he didn't show it in the slightest.

Crona loosened himself upon hearing Shay shouldn't be a threat to them, although still a bit shaky from Gilgamesh's loud and commanding voice. Seraph continued to look onto the scene, half-entertained, half-bored. Gilgamesh broke the silence by letting out a large sigh. Somebody was going to have to do the job. Looking upwards at Shay, Gilgamesh reluctantly obliged to Shay's requests.

"Very well... If service to me is what you wish, then you shall have to prove yourself first and foremost." Gilgamesh's spoke in a lower voice than what was previously heard, although Shay didn't even crack a smile at this point. 'I've got to look calm,' Shay thought to himself. Honestly, none of this was really making Shay flinch. He could care less if anybody rejected him, or even attacked him at this point. If what Omni says is true, then nothing would stop him from coming back even harder the next time he'd spawn. Thankfully, that isn't the case for now.

Shay continued to listen in, telling Gilgamesh he understood with a simple nod. Gilgamesh followed, continuing to assign Shay a task, "There have been recent reports of Empire soldiers in the place of Carrefore, a Stormtrooper outpost located somewhere in this Verse, whereas a single Stormtrooper captain has come to raid my beautiful city, and attack it's citizens on the Empire's order. If you truly wish to protect those that are here, then you will go to Carrefore, neutralize this threat, and as proof, bring to me his helmet."

Shay couldn't help it now, smirking with satisfaction. Starting off with an assassination mission, could there be anything more fitting? Thinking that was all Gilgamesh had to say, Shay finished with his final words.

"Yes, sir... I will gladly accept this as my initiation test if that is what it comes down to. I'll leave before the night comes, so I'll have a better chance at-" Shay was then interrupted by Gilgamesh raising a fist into the air, his eyes closed as if he were waiting for Shay's attention. Catching on, Shay listened in to what his new king had to say.

"It's unlikely you'll be able to do this alone, Shay Patrick Cormac. I also have other Primes, one in particular I need to show themselves to me. Her name is Agnés Oblige, and she awaits in her room located in my palace. You have my worded permission from the great king Gilgamesh himself, that you are allowed to speak with her and prepare yourselves for the mission. No matter the cost, get it done." Gilgamesh lowered his eyebrows, making his words sound as intimidating as possible. It didn't seem to have much of an effect on Shay however, who was just then clasping his hands together, almost as if he were excited.

Gilgamesh walked over to Shay, getting as close as possible without reaching arm's length. Crona and Seraph soon followed, still observing the scene Shay was making. With one final set of words, Gilgamesh then began to walk out the city of Nippur.

"Do not disappoint me, Shay."

Shay looked behind him as Gilgamesh continued to walk, Seraph coming with him without a word. Crona kept looking behind him, shaking at the sight of Shay. It almost made Shay feel bad that he did this so suddenly instead of waiting for a more opportune moment, but Shay figured the boy was just shy. Not as if it mattered now, anyways. Shay looked ahead to the now crowded streets, and far behind that, Gilgamesh's palace.

The name Agnés kept repeating in Shay's head. He didn't know who this woman was, or what she was going to be like. He only hoped that whoever she was, she was going to be able to help on this mission, however the case may be. Sighing in relief, Shay pulled down his collar, and began walking silently towards the king's palace, moving through the seemingly endless crowd of happy locals.

It didn't take long before Shay found himself at the entrance to Gilgamesh's palace. The place was huge, although not the biggest he's seen before. Needless to say, it was quite impressive. Huge, rich, and everything about it screamed royalty. This was the place, alright. At the front of the palace's entrance, Shay could see yet again, a pair of two armored guards protecting the doors. Only these two were bigger, and bulkier.

Walking calmly towards them, Shay raised his hands to show the two he meant no harm. Shay then explained to the two guards his business at the king's palace.

"I have come here on the king's orders to prepare myself on a mission the king assigned me. If you would let me enter and speak with his highest ranking person of servitude, it would be appreciated." After Shay finished, the two guards opened the door to Gilgamesh's palace without a single word, surprisingly enough. Shay paid no mind, entering the large royal building.

If the outside of this place was impressive, then no doubt the interior of it was as well. Fancy, rich, and pleasing to the eyes. Shay nodded to himself, enjoying the fact that he'll get a room here after completing his task Gilgamesh ordered him to accomplish at Carrefore. Continuing to walk inside of the palace's interior, before a faint giggling sound could be heard.

Shay stopped in his tracks. He had no clue where that came from. That is, until he looked up to see the figure of a very small woman dangling from a chandelier, looking down at Shay with crimson red eyes. Shay swore he saw horns on her head, and couldn't help but to exclaim, "Oh my god, what-"

Interrupted by a growl and girlish, animalistic battle cry, the woman pounced at Shay, knocking him to the ground. Shay grunted as he hit the ground, even though it didn't hurt at all, this still surprised him greatly. Raising his hands to block any oncoming attacks, Shay then loosened up looking at the woman's petite face. He was right in the assumption of horns, and to add onto that, strange animal ears on top of her head. Saying that Shay was confused at this moment would have been a great understatement.

The strange animal woman looked very excited that she had "caught" something, judging from her wide, child-like smile, and her body seeming to wag back and forward. Before Shay could express his confusion, the woman on top of Shay accidentally dug her claws in Shay's shoulder, before she began to talk with a very playful demeanor.

"Oh lookie! A new Prime, a new Prime! I hope you're trespassing, because that would mean I get to kill you! Oh, by the way, my name is Eudocia!" As this Eudocia woman talked, Shay bit his lower lip as she continued to play around.

"No... That won't be... necessary, I... came here on the king's orders... Please get off..." Shay kept his head on the ground as he tiredly responded, not really wanting to get up at this point. Eudocia only stopped upon hearing the sounds of footsteps entering the room, and a man's voice soon following.

"Eudocia, there you are! Why do you continue to mess around when the king is not present?! It is absolute-..." The man stopped to look at the scene going on just then. Shay looked at the man, his face practically pleading, please help me, and get this weird woman off of my body immediately.

"DAMNIT, EUDOCIA! Get off of that man this instant!" The young man screamed at Eudocia, to which she simply giggled, quickly hopped off of Shay, and ran off again.

Groaning, Shay sat upwards, nodding at the person who had just helped him get out of a very awkward situation. Or make it more awkward, judging from the weird silence that followed. Shay walked over to the man, outstretching his hand.

"Hello, sir. My name is Shay Patrick Cormac, thank you for... whatever that was... Anyways, I've come here on orders of the king. Might you happen to be one of his servants?" Shay spoke as the man shook his hand, nodding silently.

"Yes, actually... I go by 'Anos,' and that very annoying nuisance of a woman you had trouble with just a minute ago was, as you probably figured by now, Eudocia. I don't know what's up with her lately, but she's acting so disobedient towards me it's-... Never mind her, if you come here on Gilgamesh's orders, what must I do for you?" Anos asked Shay, looking at him dead in the eyes.

Shay replied, standing straight and confident. "I've been assigned to complete a mission over at Carrefore, mainly to eliminate a Stormtrooper captain threatening to target Nippur. I'd have gone alone by now, but king Gilgamesh wanted me to tag along this woman named 'Agnés Oblige.' Might you know where she is in this place?"

Anos sighed, still looking off to where Eudocia ran off to inside of the palace. Shaking his head slightly, Anos switched his attention back to Shay.

"I actually assigned that woman a room not to long ago... Go to the right here, and then take another left after reaching the hallway, Agnés' room will be the second one to the right. If you'll excuse me, I'm going to have to catch Eudocia again, wherever the hell she's run off to... I swear, if she makes another mess, I'll-..." Anos stopped himself mid-rant, waving at Shay, before jogging off.

Sighing, Shay took the directions Anos had given him, taking a right, and then a left... before reaching a hallway filled with rooms left to right. Second one to the right, easy enough. Shay walked over to the door in question, silently putting his ear to the door itself. He heard a feminine hum gently ring in his ear. This was the one, it had to be.

'Quite the eventful day, this was...' Shay thought to himself, before raising his hands, knocking on the door.