Kli stood in front of the busy academy. Her blue grey eyes wandered as her red and black hair was blown into her pale face by the wind. She sat down on the grass, biting her pink lips with her teeth softly as she waited for her friends to arrive. It was time. She had invited her friends to ask them a favor. She had never done this before. She had never asked for this type of help before. She needed it though, this time she couldn't help but ask. It wasn't like before, she wasn't helping her friends. She was asking her friends for help. She hadn't told them why, exactly she wanted them there. Some of them knew though, she just hoped that they would show up. She sat indian style, holding her brown cloak close to her as she waited. Her white skirt and blouse hanging loose from her frail body. Her brown sandals lay a few feet from her as she closed her eyes. As she waited she meditated. She tried to calm herself for what she had to do.

Behind her stood proudly a white horse. The horse had two bags hanging from its saddle. The horse had yet to be named. She just couldn't ever find the perfect name for such an astonishing creature. She never was good at naming things. She never named her dolls when she was a child, or her pets for that matter. She loved them so much that she worried about the perfect name instead of naming them. The horse was grazing quietly. Her eyes opened again, sensing a few presences in the distance. Could it be them? Would they join to help her?

Bahamut walks up, green scales not reflecting the light. His clawed hands held his saw-toothed glaive, and his black hair was blown around. His clawed feet gripped the ground with each step. "So, Kli, what is it?"He smiles slightly, currently blue and red eyes looking at her as he sat across from her.

Her eyes looked up to him and she smiled. "It is nice to see that you have taken time out to come." She said, starting to get up. "I know that you might see a few people that you do not like. That is, if they come. But, the balance of forces may be thrown into the bottomless pit. You may not care, it's not so much as the gods problems.. But things other than just me have been brought into danger. I wish it was just my problem. But, if it goes like I think it goes it will spread into a problem of the world. I wouldn't have asked my friends if I could've done it alone." She said. "But, I cannot tell everything until everyone is here."

The air growled as it does when torn by the chaotic echo of thunder overhead: a symphony of invisible barks from the abyss. Skylight fell undisturbed and constant, no clouds to speak of that might be the source of this event. A golden orb shown particularly bright for a moment, a quick flash of the sun that whited out the surroundings in its awesome presence.

The colors of the world resurfaced as the solar flare subsided, the trees, grasses, men and women all continued as if nothing had happened. Perhaps the fact remained that it had not happened at all. Perhaps it was an illusion, a simple adjustment of the eyes that pulled the world to pure white. False or otherwise, a lone figure stood in the distance. Thin and draping white robes, tossed and rippled by a light breeze like fine silk, the person stood alone and motionless. Gold trimming, almost appearing to be intricated runes that fell in lines down the sides of the attire and across the chest in a single circle, seemed to shimmer in the sunlight. Atop the figure's head was a long, consuming hood of the same material. His head tipped forward to watch the ground, allowing the material to hide his face from view. The rim of the hood contained the same intricate embroidery, and it continued back to meet with the rest of the decoration at the middle of his back. Stepping forward, the material pulled backward against his form, not being strong enough to maintain its own shape.

Within moments the figure had moved beside Kli and Bahamut, both familiar to him. His hands were clasped infront of him beneath his draping clothes, but they soon opened to reveal opal skin. The two appendages moved upward and threw back the white hood to reveal the face of the Guardian. He smiled warmly, something that had not happened much since he went into hiding, and stated, "I have promised you my services many times in the past. It is time for you to ask me a favor."

((OOC: Looks like we need a posting order very badly. Order of introduction is typical, so it will be Kli, Bahamut, myself, and then whoever else arrives. Let's try to stick with that from now on. Next post after the one Bahamut has put under mine is yours, Kli, then we'll follow the order from there.))

He nods. "Well, I'm not a God anymore, you should know that right now. And I don't care really who comes, so long as some people come. Two people wont finish anything, not easily. I hope everyone comes soon, so I can find out what this is......If only more people were in my guild, we might help you. Might, is the keyword."

Kli smiled, looking at Sargoth. "Thank you.." She said quietly. "You don't understand what this means." She said. "Then again, how am I to know what you do or do not understand." She said with a slight laugh. Trying to lighten the mood. "I just hope that light and darkness don't clash.." She said, a bit in a metaphor. See, she had invited her most closest friends. Including Ranewen. She didn't know what would happen if she came as well as Sargoth, but she hoped they would be able to get along as well as with Master Ace. She knew that Ranewen and Master Ace weren't exactly the best of pals. She thought a few moments before looking to Bahamut. "I've noticed, but, I don't exactly keep up with the news you see. Some things have been on my mind you see." She said. She looked to Sargoth. "And you know I wouldn't have asked you here if I had thought I had even the smallest chance of victory. She then took a bag from the horse and set it on the ground. Revealing a stash of food. "Help yourself if you are hungry.." She said.

He backs away from Sargoth, hissing. His green eyes appear, and his fangs come out."Light........Demonic Infusion makes me hate it...."He gets a hold of himself, and retracts the fangs, eyes turning back to normal." E-hem.....sorry about that."

"It is good that you can control yourself; I doubt I would as friendly with the process," he said with a hint of anger in his voice as he glared at the fallen god. With a swooping motion of his hand and the robes attached, he reached down and took an apple out of kindness to his host. It was still firm, which was something hard to find at the markets at this time of the season. He was content holding the apple as a gesture rather than eating it, primarily since he he did not eat.

Looking at Kli and bringing a smile to his face, he commented, "I have avoided news myself, so I could not hold you accountable for that. I am simply wondering what you have stumbled into this time if you called for my help. The last visit you made to my temple was less forward than this, and I was amazed back then. I am sure you will tell me why you need my help in due time." He understood that it might take Kli awhile to say anything that needed to be said; she was a strong woman. He had become used to waiting for her.

Looking around, he finally took notice of the horse that Kli had retrieved food from. It was absolutely beautiful. Something was strange about it, though. It was not from this plane. He nodded once he figured out the origin of the beast and then mentioned, "You have found yourself a beautiful horse, my good friend."

"You are strong Bahamut.. Or just stronger than the sudden urges of fate. I wasn't as strong.." She said. "I killed my best friends at one point in time." She said. "Sad day.. But, I congradulate you. Even though I'm sure that some wouldn't see it." She looked to Sargoth again. "Sometimes things sink in. You finally realize the problems one problem may cause. I don't plan to ask for much help from you or anyone else. But, I do realize now that I may need it." She said. She knew not to give too much information at this time. "You know me all too well Sargoth, a little too much for my taste my friend. So I trust you not to reveal any information about what might be the reason of my asking people to meet me here." She said. "More people are to come. I have invited all I feel that may help us. Good, Evil, or Nuetral I have invited them. Hopefully alignments do not clash. Hopefully the group will not fall before even telling them why i asked them here. We will see though." She said quietly. She looked at the horse a while before saying anything. "Yes. He is a beautiful one for sure. I had found him by the Black River. Such a nice one. Afraid he was though. He had been beaten. I nursed him back to health and he has been following me ever since. I've never thought of a name though. I guess I'm just too picky.." She said with a smile and a soft laugh. She looked at them.

(We should wait until more people join.)

Lilith froze as she used far sight to see the small group of people that were currently huddled as if all were deep in thought. Her eyes lingered upon Bahamut and his new form. As always, it shocked her to see him like that and her emotions became uncontrollable. Then she remembered she had come for Kli, not for the silencing of her own emotions. She shook the spell away and made her tired wings continue to flap. She had come from a long way off to meet with Kli. She had been summoned for a reason unknown but she trusted its importance was immense for Kli was the one gathering her friends and she would never do so unless it was vital.

She concentrated on keeping herself above ground and finally reached her destination a few feet from the group. She gently fell to the ground, landing on her feet, and tucked her wings under her cloak. Then she walked over to Sargoth, Bahamut, and Kli. All were her friends and she felt safe in approaching them without weapon. One look at Kli, and she knew she had done the right thing in rushing to her side. “Kli, I have come.” Lilith was able to gasp out the words before falling to the ground in an almost graceful way. “Just let me catch my breath…”

Bahamut blinks when he sees Lilith. This was the most shocking thing to happen to him in a while. He was confused about his feelings for her still, so he didn't say anything for a while. But finally he speaks."Hello Lilith. How have you been?"He squats down, looking at her.

"Thank you Lilith. I am sorry I have rushed you. I knew I could count on you though." She smiled. "Rest, Eat." She said, giving her a peice of bread. "I will tell you all why I called you here once everyone arrives." She said. She walked over to the horse, fumbling in through the bag. She took out her trusty boots and slid them on, putting her sandals away. She clung to her cloak as usual and watched Sargoth, Lilith and Bahamut. Her mind wandered to the time when she had last seen them around the same place. She smiled quietly as she sat down. Her mind couldn't help but wander to the past as she nibbled quietly on a peice of bread, not eating much at all.

(ooc:I'm going to try to make this work but lately i'v had a lot of homework, its already been two or three weeks since the last time i was even online so if it takes me a long time to reply you can bunny my char or something.)

Drake flew swiftly toward the place where Kli was supposed to be waiting for him. It had been a long time since he had seen Kli and he wandered what she had called him for on such short notice. Flying closer to his destination he could see a small group of people standing together. When Drake landed his wings sent a cloud of dust into the air around him he looked much stronger then he had the last time he had seen any of them and he had scars on his body from arrows and what looked like burns across his face. He folded his wings so that they were tucked back behind him and then walked slowly up to the small group and changed into his elf form. He quickly recognized Kli, Sargoth, Lilith and another figured that reminded him of Bahamut. Drake was surprised to see Lilith and he hadn't seen Sargoth since the incident in Norwood Forest which he was still bitter towards Sargoth for. He walked slowly up to Kli and Lilith past both Sargoth and Bahamut without evening glancing in their direction. "I'm glad to see your alright Kli." He turned his attention toward Lilith who he hadn't seen in a very long time then looked over at Bahamut. "I don't beleive we have met I'm Drake." he still wasn't sure wether or not the man really was Bahamut. Drake stepped back so he could see Lilith, Kli, Bahamut, and Sargoth who he tried to ignore. "So whats going on?"

Skorne stood some distance away from the group, watching them silently as more members arrived to increase the number. He was a bit apprehensive about going over there, his last meeting with Sargoth hadn't ended well, he still remembered the hell that he had been sent to. Then again, this could be his best chance to explain himself to Sargoth, and maybe remove the enmity that was there from the last meeting. He sighed and walked forward slowly. He kept his hands behind his back as he walked, looking over the group. He remembered meeting Lilith once before, but it had been a while ago. He recognized Sargoth, Lilith, Bahumat, and Kli, but he didn't know the dragon.

Skorne arrived at the group just as the dragon was asking what was going on. At first, he tried to ignore Sargoth, trying to put off the inevitable confrontation. "Hello Kli, why have you called such a mixed group to gather here?" Skorne's eyes looked around, he wondered if Lilith would remember him, it had been such a short meeting. He doubted that Sargoth or Bahumat had forgotten him. Until Kli answered, he planned on delaying his talk with Sargoth

(sorry I am so late, I have been gone all day)

( ::crowded:: Is this every freind Kli has ever made?)

Master Ace closed his book and rested it genly upon the table. His mind raced as he recalled that Kli was waiting on him in front of the academy. He had known a good bit in advance. It was for this reason that he had sent Reis to cascadia. Reis would do what she could to help Kli, afterall it was with Kli's help that Ace's mother had escaped her bondage. Reis, though she would try her best, would likely not be of any use to anyone. She was bound to her human form. She had managed to keep this a secret from Ace for quite some time, but Ace soon saw it strange that his mother never took on her true form. Before Ace could inquire on the matter she told him of the braceletts that bound her to her current human form.

Master Ace hastened down the stairs of the tower of Arcana. He recalled when Kli and Ace both studied to be Archmages. Kli could have been the Archmage training mistress if she wanted to, she was with Ace every step of the way. When Ace got to the tower to the tower, Ace's thoughts turned his first meeting with Sargoth. Ace quickly shook off the haunting memory and opened the door. Ace walked briskly to the nearest academy building. As he walked He could not help but think of Sargoth. He had done many bad things when he had gone out of control, but the worst had been done to Sargoth. After walking through several hallways, he had shooken the thought of Sargoth away.

These thoughts quickly returned as Ace opened a door and Kli and her other companions. "Ah Kl....." Master Ace said cheerfully before his eyes came upon Sargoth. His eyes widened in disbleif and his smile quickly faded. "What is he doing here of all places? He tells me not to cross paths with him, but then places his own path in conflict with my own," Master Ace thought to himself as he stared at Sargoth. The thought of running and hoping he wasn't seen arose, but quickly vanished. He would be seen as a coward. He would not feel fear, of all places, on the Academy grounds. Master Ace attempted to continued to his greeting to Kli, but would neither his gaze nor his mouth moving.

(Lol, Kli has a very diverse group of friends. Sorry it's so many people.)

She smiled as she saw Admiral Ice, Skorne and Master Ace arrive. "Thank you for comming. I feel flattered that so many would actually come." She said, offering the food that sat in the bag. "I am sorry if there are any conflicts between you my friends. But, it's hard not to since alignments cannot be all the same. I am sorry that, when I tell you why I have called you for a meeting, it might not be for the cause you might expect. You might think it be none of your business. I understand. This is why I called you here. There are more to arrive I'm afraid." She said quietly. She stuffed her cold hands into her cloak pockets. "I am sorry that I have called so many of you here, I didn't think that you would've come. You are all my friends or companions, either I have helped you or you have helped me. I don't ask for help much. You all should know that by now. But, this isn't just about me." She said. "I wish to tell you why you are all here so you can decide now. If any others come I will explain to them as well. But, I do not want to waste time for any of you."

She looked at her friends. "Let me tell you my past, many of you already know of my past, but it is vital to my meeting. It wasn't too long ago that I lived in Lorian, one of the most magical cities in middle earth. I was Kli of Lorian. One of the most respected princesses and the only descendent to the king. I hated it though. My father thought that girls shouldn't do magic, ride horses, or even have opinions. I wouldn't listen though, I was stubborn just like today. I frequently ran away with my best friend to see the world, always ending up back in the city, hid in the shadows of the castle. When I started studying magic behind my fathers back I got strong. My father could feel my power and got dreadfully mad. He burnt my magic books and everything dear to me. See, he too was stubborn, and he wouldn't let a child disobey him. He sent me off with nothing but a few gold coins and the clothes on my back. He shunned me from Lorian and disowned me. After I left the head wizards and his company started with dark magic. It filled their mind and soul. They clouded my fathers mind, telling him that I was dead. It pretty much killed him. He died you see. The wizards have been trying to kill me so I would never be able to reclaim the throne. Luckily, as you may see, I am not dead yet."

"See, I can't let them take over Lorian. Their destructive ways will certainly kill everything in there path unless stopped before this has a chance to start. I am not perfect, I cannot defeat these menaces on my own. This isn't about my land, but Imythess as well. They will enslave everyone. Not just good, but evil and nuetral alike. Make evil and nuetral fight for them, and leave good to their doom. This is about the balance of middle earth." She explained. "Your right. I have wasted your time. All I'm asking is for a little help though. Not for a full out war, and I don't expect for Sargoth to put too much towards it unless we are loosing. I would do this myself, you know I would, but it is too big for even my stubborn pride. When I know I need help I'm not afraid to ask." She said quietly. "And that is why I have asked you here. I'm not going to endanger anyone's life here. If anyone is to die I will. I'll make sure of that." She smiled slightly, a bit uncomfortable as she looked for a reaction.

He looks at Drake."Yeah, Drake, I know you, I'm Bahamut."He turns to Ace and nods, and nods to Skorne as well. He then stands up from his squat. "Well, Kli, I told you on the Coast, I'm coming if I have to go through the Celestial Cities themselves. You can't get rid of me."He smiles slightly(I think it's Sargoths turn now......)

The God of Day's eyes flickered with inner lightning as the story of Kli's past was retold and her situation explained. His face, a smile, had grown dim as the situation was shown to grow more and more complex and dangerous. The royal wizards of Imythess, while pompous, gained their position by showing talent and wisdom. He could only assume the same remained true in Lorian. The difficulty arose when Sargoth could not say for sure what particular black magics were being practiced by these magical casters: the only information he could gather was that it had to be strong if it was possible to practically usurp a kingdom with it. He was consumed with an inner turmoil of factfinding and decision-making.

Those around him, those of a large group of people who arrived after he had appeared to offer his services, did not draw his attention. He had little interested at the time since it would do no good for Kli to begin something violent and personal. The bond to a friend was stronger than those bonds to enemies, and he was holding this fact true. It was regarded without surprise that Master Ace had been invited: the same man had been present when Sargoth first stumbled across the Seeds of Power. Since their last meeting, the God of Day had been able to weave a few gossamer strands of magic, which satisfied him regarding the fate of Master Ace. Now it was a moot point, even if it was preferred not to interact with him. Besides the mage, he was familiar with the rest of the large mass of people. Whether friend or foe, they were known to him. Sadly, this was the least of the complications.

It was immortal law, at least a law within his own morals, that he would not be allowed to directly interfere with the rule of nations. A deity had no business on a throne. With this in mind, he could not logically consider joining the quest, since any action on his part might alter the course of fate to place him in direct responsibility. There was one loophole. While changing the course of events to choose someone to place atop the throne was impossible, Kli was the rightful heiress to that throne. This single strand of justice allowed the God of Day to take action.

"Kli, my first true friend, while I may be shackled with responsibilities that might make me unable to join you during the entirety of this journey, I can help you in an indirect way. Please excuse me momentarily," came a calm and reasoned response from Sargoth.

Within a blink of an eye, two gigantic, white wings spread outward at full length and tore slits into the silk robes. Using the appendages to push upward, Sargoth gained height vertically until he was at least twenty feet above the group. Remaining there, his hands became clasped once more and his head dipped down. A deep, echoing chant began that echoed back in every direction. It was muffled and quiet, but it existed. Golden beams of sunlight, entirely visible as if it were solid, cascaded down in all directions and focused at a point beneath Sargoth's feet. He dropped his wings to his sides while continuing to chant, and he landed on the threads. He was being held up by almost a spiderweb of sunlight as he called into the unseen horizon.

She smiled quietly at Bahamut. "Don't be stubborn like me.. It doesn't help sometimes.." She said. Her eyes widened as she watched Sargoth. She never wanted to use her friendship with him to do anything for her. She asked him and everyone else for backup since she didn't know if she could do it herself. She didn't even know what Sargoth was up to really. She just stood there, blue grey eyes staring unknowingly. She figured that if it came down to no other way she would ask him to step in and help. But, she didn't really want to ask for his help since he was who he was. Even though she knew him way before he was made into a god. Her eyes wandered over to the others, watching them before her eyes went back to Sargoth. She was confused, but in awe. She kept her hands stuffed in her cloak pockets as she watched. She wondered what she would do if she really did take the throne. She wouldn't be able to be in Imythess all the time. She'd have to marry and everything. Of course, I'll appoint a ruler.. She thought for a moment. Oh.. That wouldn't work.. I guess I'll figure something out.. She thought to herself. If the time calls for it.

Meera rushes into the academy. She was very late. She looked around breathlessly for Kli. As she scans the fairly crowded room, she only spots a few farmilliar faces. Her flush cheeks redden even more as she realizes that everyone else was there and probably on time. Meera spotted Kli and walked up to her. She apoligized profusely with "Sorry I'm late, I really got sidetracked, I'm so very sorry. Did I miss a lot? If I missed to much I could always leave....." and she just kept blabbering on because she was very mad at herself for being late and to her, it was extremely rude to her friend and Meera didn't want to be known for that.

Lilith was not in the least bit amazed at how many had shown up at Kli’s request. Kli was one of the kindest, caring, and most loving people in Imythess. She had been through so much and deserved no less than the throne of which she spoke. Lilith would of course endanger herself for practically any she called a friend. It gave her a reason to live. She silently watched as others crowded around and Sargoth called upon some ancient power. Lilith did not personally have any problems with the group that had shown up. All of them were her friends, even Skorne whom she had met only once. The task at hand would be a dangerous one but Lilith was not frightened. If she were to only save one person in the process, she would consider her life well spent. She turned to Kli and with a slight nod of the head, she whispered, “I am and will always be here for you Kli. I accept your request and will do everything within my power to help.” She curtseyed and backed up a little so others could have their say.

She looked to Meera, happy that she had made it. The first one to truely know her secret. She never told a thing to anyone. She was lucky to have such friends. Kli didn't realize at all why her friends would care so much. To her she thought of herself as a stubborn fool who drove them up the wall with her unwillingness to accept any help. Truthfully she thought herself as rude in some cases. But, her stubbornness could never fully be dismissed. "Do not worry.. You are fine.. Rest, catch your breath. Eat if you wish.. Don't be so hard on yourself. You pretty much know why I have asked you here. You know just about everything. Relax, Meera, relax." She said with a reassuring smile. She looked to Lillith quietly. "You've always been way too kind my friend. Thank you also. Life has a mind of it's own.. I'm just seeing if I can persuade it to let me live.. Maybe even a normal life.." She whispered. Her eyes looked back to Sargoth. As always, Kli was one step from a breakdown on either side. That was her though, keeping it in and keeping it under control with subbornness.

Skorne thought about the tale that had been told, going over the thoughts in his mind. He had become less and less demon like these past weeks, it was almost frightening the change that had occured. "I will help you Kli, not only because you have asked for help, but to in some way repent for the evil that I caused. Thank you for asking me to help you, this should prove to be an interesting adventure indeed." It was then that he thought of one drawback to his agreement, what would happen if he were to die on this journey? Then again, this is no more or less dangerous than just about anything I do. Skorne craned his head to get a look at Sargoth. "I wish that he would come down, I have something that I want to talk to him about, I just hope that he will listen for two seconds." Skorne bit down the sudden demonic urge that had arisen, they were getting stronger, he had to control himself if he wanted to help Kli.

Meera was happy that Kli forgave her. She blushed because she must have overwhelmed Kli with her incessent blubbering about being late. She said "Thanks" and smiled, truly feeling better about herself. She looked around the room at all of the new faces. Some of them she had heard about and some she had never seen or heard of in her lifetime. She figured, no time like the present to meet new people. She stepped backwards from Kli and searched for the right person to aproach. She looked towards Lillith, she looked nice. She walked towards her and held out her hand saying "hi, I'm Meera." She had an akward pause at a loss for words and what to say next then figured on saying "So I see you're here to help Kli as well. It's nice to know that she has so many good friends." Then smiled at her.

Bahamut looks at Meera, hiding the shock of finding a Celestial Infused. What luck! He wanted to kill her instantly, but there were to many around for that. He would figure out a way, somehow. He would bide his time for now, until he figured a way.

Lilith reached her hand out and grasped Meera’s. She gently spoke, “Hello Meera, I am Lilith. I would definitely consider myself a friend of Kli’s.” She lowered her voice and barely whispered, “I am not completely sure what is going on, but I will always be here for her. I know this venture will endanger and perhaps even kill some of us. But Kli will never have to face this alone.” Lilith smiled and released the woman’s hand. It was then she caught Bahamut staring holes into Meera. One look in his eyes, and Lilith knew something wasn’t right. She leaned close to the girl and whispered in her ear, “I would beware of Bahamut. He seems to have evil intentions.” Then she straightened up and turned her eyes back to Kli.

Meera turned head slowly towards the man that she had called Bahamut, and saw him looking towards her. A shivver was sent down her spine. Lillith was indeed right. something didn't feel good. She thought -he wouldn't dare do anything with so many people around. I wonder why he is looking at me so strangely?- and turned back to lillith. She lowered her hand as Lillith let go and said "It would be great for all of us girls in the room to be great friends. I know we all are with Kli, but we need to have eachothers back. Especially Kli's, I may not know the whole deal about Kli's intentions but I think you and I both know that Kli's idea is a situation of life or death. Not only for her because like you said. Some of us may die.

(I think we should all wait for Sargoth.)

((allright))

((OOC: Sorry about not posting, I wanted everyone to have a word or two before I completed my actions :). Oh, and sorry for the long post, I won't be repeating this length. I just had a lot to say, lol.))

An unmistakeable thump rumbled down from above as a spherical shockwave pushed away from the God of Day. Gossamer strands of light that held his form in the air vibrated with the energy, and the plantlife bent backward from the blast. Otherwise, no harm was done. Sargoth appeared unphased as he remained motionless, the chant still calling out into the distance. He was preoccupied to a point that all of his concentration was miles away. His robed body rocked as an unfelt wind began to gain in velocity, enough to tear at the loose cloth even though it was barely noticeable from the ground. His wings and arms spread wide as the god held a long note in the chant. The white and gold clothes that had covered him from sight vanished in a firey explosion of light to reveal his normal attire and form. Then, as a flower closes to a bud for the night, the strands of light folded inward to hide the God of Day in what almost appeared to be a small star. It was almost impossible to stare at it directly without damaging the eyes, which might have drawn a question as to how the God could function on the inside.

Miles away, the unknown destination of Sargoth's energy, a lone figure rode atop his mount headed for a distant set of mountains. He wiped his brow with tired hands as he considered the time of his last sleep. It had been far too long. Had it been any longer, he would not have believed what would happen next. He was forced to a stop as a man, a creature but in man's own form, held up a white palm and blocked the path. He was drawn to the figure's eyes, powerful lightning raging inside. There was a moment of silence before all was made clear: the gift of wisdom from the divine. Jarreth immediately dismounted and fell to his knee, head bowed.

"My Lord."

Sargoth shook his head and bade him stand as he stated, "You will not bow your head as you are now responsible for a task greater than any mortal I have addressed. Release yourself, knight, so that you may regain something more."

Jarreth could not help but shake as he nodded and looked at the God of Day once more, now finding comfort in avoiding his eyes regardless of the immortal's request. The air grew warm as Jarreth's blade unsheathed itself and floated before him, the metal glinting in strong sunlight. Sargoth nodded and reached his hand out, invisible power steaming out and around Talon. In response, it took on a glow of its own and slowly replaced itself in the scabbard. Jarreth bowed his head in thanks for the blessing for the quest to come.

"Two weeks, fourteen new suns, and the sword will be as it was. It is not the sword but the hand that I am entrusting. You will be brought to your destination now, and you will meet her. Entrust her with the decision from there, for it is all I can do to bind your two paths. It is fate who must determine the future from that point. Should she send you away, I give you my gratitude. Should she accept you as her guardian, you will do your duty and your moral obligation to bring her to her goal. Death for the greater good, I believe you have said. Do not fail in this task, Jarreth, for it means more than you will ever be able to know," boomed the God's voice.

Jarreth only nodded once more, not saying a word. He could not force out a syllable even if he had something important to add. The armored man stood and placed his right fist against his heart, his solemn oath. Turning, he returned to his mount, the golden chocobo Juine, and placed his helmet atop his head. Buckling his gauntlets around his wrists, he took one last glance at the God of Day, who stood waiting with an almost hidden smile. Then the world faded to a pure white.

Back at the Academy of Magic, the orb of light that held Sargoth exploded in a shower of glittering specks. Within its core: nothing. The specks swirled and collected in a chaotic storm before seeming to make a recognizeable shape. As quickly as it had all started, it ceased. The lights blinked away and what remained was a very disoriented man, clad in platemail, and a vacant looking bird. He began to look around slowly, trying to determine his whereabouts.

Your hero should you choose him, my old friend. May he act as your guardian as I once did. Came a whispered voice into Kli's ear. It was meant for only her. He will act as my arm while I can only watch and pray. I will be with you when you need me the most.

The wind whistled and the nearby trees rustled in response. The voice had faded, the last comment barely audible. I truly do like the horse, Kli. I would have called it Sunset.

Her eyes wandered to the orb where sargoth had been in but as her eyes saw it, it quickly disappeared into specks. She noticed how it formed and soon saw the man in platemail. She looked confused before hearing that faint whisper that seemed to be almost in her mind. She understood who it was. She looked to place where the sun had already started to rise. She closed her eyes for a moment. 'Thank you Sargoth, you have done what you can do and I am grateful for it.. You will forever be my guardian and my friend...' She thought. Her blue grey eyes opened again, looking around at her friends before looking to the man again. 'If this is real and we really live to see the day of a new begining.. I will be forever grateful..' She thought to herself. She walked up to this man, studying him as she had studied so many others. "Do you know where you are?" She asked simply. She didn't ask a name, she didn't ask if he knew why he was here. Her eyes turned to a crystal blue as she looked to her friends quietly. She stood perfectly still, silent as death yet saying plenty at the same time. She was deep in thought, not noticing her eyes changing different colors slowly.

Could this be another change? It seemed likely, she was an everchanging child. She couldn't stay the same Kli for more than a year.

Meera's voice stopped suddenly as Sargoth did the wonderful. She had no clue what was happening though it seemed like a miracle. When the warrior came, she too had no clue who he was. She only could watch, see, and try to guess what would happen next. When Kli walked up to the strange man that had seemed to appear out of no where, she walked next to her because she too was still a little puzzled as to why this man was here and what purpose he had in Kli's quest or expedition as some would put it. She did not notice Kli's eyes changing because she was so focused on the stranger but destiny could tell that this seemingly small change would have some impact on her own life.

Bahamut looks away for Meera, back to Kli, then Sargoth. This was not fair. There were so many people. He wouldn't be noticed if he left, but he had an obligation to a friend. Sometimes friends were annoying. He sits down on the ground, in no hurry to go anywhere.

"Should my course have been unshaken, my lady, then I know that I am near to a woman by the name of Kli of Lorian. I am then, and will remain, by her side by her wish and for as long as I am needed," came a sincere reply from behind the steel helmet.

His hands slowly raised from Juine's saddle as he pulled away his veil of armor, letting it rest infront of him on the saddlehorn. Deep blue eyes, peered down at the woman, an inner ring of gold like a solar flare marking the circumference of his pupil. Should anyone have known that he had spoken to the God of Day, they might assume this marking to be of the very same diety, but it was gift of nature from birth. Weather worn skin was especially noticeable on his cheeks, the type of effect that would be found after living in frigid Northlands for a good portion of his life. His body swayed atop Juine, the golden chocobo, a loyal and faithful, if vacant, friend. He was obviously woozy from the travel, even though he would never be able to retell what it was like to be moved upon a beam of light, but that would not stop him from asking his most important question.

"My lady, I make no assumption, but from what information I have, I believe I must ask none other than you if you will have me as a guardian for your journey."

"You are not mistaken.. I am Kli.. I thank you for what it seems to be loyalty." She said, watching him for a few moments before looking to the others. "I will have you as a guardian if and only if you do not use those dreadful memorable words 'My Lady' and use Kli instead." She said, looking back at him. "For I am no lady, sir, right now I'm just Kli of light and darkness, life and death, and good and evil.. Right now I seek to put back the balance.." She said quietly. Lately she's been thinking a lot about what they call 'the balance between good and evil' and she knew she couldn't just hide anymore from the ones which tried to kill her. She must go into that land no matter the cost. "Please, tell us your name so we may start on our journey.." She said. "You'd probably wish to rest before we start though.." She sighed. She walked to Meera, watching her quietly before looking to Bahamut and sitting down by her horse.

A slight nod came in return to Kli's acceptance, even with conditions. Even if he did not feel right calling her by her first name, he was in no position to disagree with her request. If she had wished she not speak to her or to anyone for the entire journey, he would be obliged to remain silent. Even more fortunate, he had no objects at all to call his charge by name. With a smile, he replied, "Thank you, Kli. With time you will see that it is not seemingly loyalty but loyalty in its fullest. You may call me Jarreth."

His eyes shifted up to scan the group of people who he assumed would be joining the task as well. His smile remained for no particular reason while he thought about what had happened and what the future might hold. Kli returned to her horse while he considered her final comment.

"Kli, I have only been riding for five hours. There is no reason for myself or Juine to rest as we try to average eighteen hour stints. Should there be no other pressing matters that hold us here, we may begin travelling at any time. I shall follow your lead from this moment forth, regardless of which direction you decide to take."

Meera watched silently. She would not speak yet for she knew that it was purely Kli's decision on what was to happen. She looked at the knight and had a strange feeling that she had seen him somewhere before. She didn't know when or where but that feeling wouldn't go away. Her eyes narrowed trying to remember, but to no avail. She instead shook her head to try and clear the feeling away. It wouldn't go away though. She wondered why and how she did know this man. It would bother her for the rest of Kli's quest if she didn't figure it out now. She didn't want to waste time on figuring this out but yet she really wanted to. She decided, for now she would focus on the task at hand.

Ace watched Sargoth and paid little to no attention to the others. He was easied to know that Sarogth was in the mood to fufill his part of their 'agreement'. Soon his gaze lightened with curiosity at what it was he god was doing. At this point none of the others and their happenings mattered. Surely their actions could not be as great as the god of Day's. Even before he was a god, sargoth's action would likely hold importanace over thos of many. Wondered what Sargoth was up to hen he vnished off into the distance. He had no doubt at all that Jarreth's spectacle appearance was wholey the doing of Sargoth's. "Does he have to always be so flashy?" Asked thought to himself. Ace found that his mood was now much lighter with Sargoth's dissapearance. He looked over Jarreth with a discerning eye as Jarreth spoke with Kli. Why would Sargoth send such a 'champion' here to aid Kli in his stead? Casting detect magic proved that this was not one of Sargoth's pets disguised in some form or another with magic. Prehaps this was some one Sargoth had known before. Prehaps it did not matter what relation this man was to Sargoth. "Eighteen hours straight! That certainly leaves time for little else time for little else," Ace thought to himself, but soon came to a serious question.

"When would be the best time to leave, Kli?" Ace asked politely as he stepped foward. He didn't want to intrreput her conversation with Jarreth, but it was a question of importance. It would do well to know how much time was left to prepare for this upcoming adventure, though Ace knew he needed little preparation himself.

Skorne watched the newcomer with interest. It would be enlightning to see why Sargoth had chosen this man as his replacement in this quest. He would have to watch the knight carefully. In the back of his mind, skorne had wished that Sargoth would have stayed for a few moments longer, but it probably wouldn't have ended the way he would have liked it to. Time to get on with the matters at hand. He walked up to the newcomer, taking his own appraisal of him. He spoke to Kli while he was still looking over the man. "Well Kli, are we going to be leaving anytime soon? It should be interesting to see where this quest takes our group." Skorne silently approved of Sargoth's replacement, he looked like the type of man who had seen many battles. Some type of general, a natural leader, yet he knew when to submit to someone of a higher rank than himself. Skorne would wait and see what contribution he made before finishing his evaluation. He held out his hand to the knight, wanting to get to know him better. "Hello, my name is Skorne. Will you tell me your name? Unless you wish me to call you knight for the entire trip."

Jarreth's attention was drawn away from Kli as more of the group began to show signs of interest. One man, a curious half-lizard half-man in form, spoke to Kli about the time of departure. At least, that is what came up to Jarreth's ears while he sat upon Juine, overlooking Kli who had moved somewhat away and had sat down. Staring at the back of the man's head was not productive for overhearing plans, but it was not his business to discuss in all actuality. When words came to his ears, he listened well, but he would not strain to evesdrop. If he was to know information, Kli would give it to him.

Luckily, he was addressed more formally by someone who appeared to have elvish blood. Jarreth's eyes flashed white for only a moment as his gaze shifted from the conversation by Kli to the man speaking to him directly. The lizard-man did not seem peculiar, but the knight was shocked when he met the eyes of the elf. He possessed a darkness to his visage, something Jarreth had seen in those evil of heart. He could not fathom why those so impure would be in such close quarters with himself and Kli, who had a clean aura. He silently calculated the possibility that he would have to defend his charge from those enemies closer than he could have imagined. He would not fail if the test came.

"Greetings, Skorne. I am known as Jarreth," he introduced as he reached his hand down, clasping Skorne's wrist with his armored gauntlet.

((OOC: I have removed this topic from my tracker since it has been dead for a month. If the topic restarts, please PM me and remind me where this is, thank you :).))