The Usurper From Zou

A sudden blizzard struck the cold and unforgiving northern mountains making travel to and from them a seemingly suicidal task. Freezing bitter winds lashed through the air carrying hail and snow with them by the dungeon load. Just a few minutes in the harsh weather was enough time for the merciless cold to pierce through clothing and damage the skin with frost bite. However this force was not one of nature as its arrival was only a precursor for what was to come.

The eye of the storm came to settle over a secret Zou prison nestled away in the frigid peaks and for the first time in several hours the weather would calm only for a storm of a different kind to arrive. A force of one hundred elite soldiers wearing the colors of Zou's Royal Guard descended from the sky on giant flying carpets that carried 20 men each. These carpets landed just outside the prison surrounding a final carpet that held only one passenger.

A young man bearing a ring with Zou's royal seal disembarked from the flying device and stood among the soldiers as his sharp eyes looked the prison over for a moment. "Do it..." He finally gave a command and the leader of the elite unit replied with a soldierly confirmation before drawing his blade and pointing it at the prison. Magoi fluttered around the soldier's head as a small magic tool sewed into the neck of his armor activated amplifying his voice so all inside the prison could hear. "Attention! The Emperor of Zou has given us an important task. The warden of this institution must present himself before us immediately or be killed for disobeying his noble majesty's orders!"

Shortly after the voice had rung throughout the Zou prison a young warden, nicknamed 'The Proxy' by the prisoners, came out of the front doors with several of the guards. The Proxy took in the sight before him, noting the colors of the group and looking upon the man who brought them. He spied upon that man the seal of the royal Emperor and immediately motioned to the guards to prostrate themselves and he, himself, bowed deeply with one knee to the ground and hands clasped together. "I live to serve the Emperor. All the resources I have are offered willingly."

The man's face was aimed towards the ground, his gaze diverted from watching the man directly. He was originally a noble from the country of Zou, and had chosen this outpost as a means to satisfy his amusements. He didn't know exactly what this group of soldiers wanted from him, but it wasn't something he was overly worried about. They should be gone after they get what they come for. Maybe they are here for the prisoner that was just released...

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Meanwhile

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Garret and the others were sitting in a visitor's room. There was a terrible snow storm going about the outside, and they were unable to leave earlier. Jessica was still wearing her mask, serious and full of respect. She handed Kuroi Shimo to Garret, the wand that Acius had confiscated back when he was originally arrested.

"Lieutenant Acius had asked I deliver this, with his wishes to see you shortly. And here is a missive that contain your new post and orders when you return." As Jessica explained, a sudden voice was projected throughout the prison. She did not have time to mention that Garret would be placed in charge of foreign affairs for their covert operations, in the field, under the Spymaster Takahashi Sato's orders.

"Attention! The voice boomed, quite clearly. "The Emperor of Zou has given us an important task. The warden of this institution must present himself before us immediately or be killed for disobeying his noble majesty's orders!"

Garret raised an eyebrow and looked over to Azix. "Looks like we have important guests. Know anything about it? Are they here for me?"

Azix lounged back in a chair, with his feet propped up on the chair opposite of him. He had been focusing on his meditative breathing, taking the time to contemplate the study of magic, when a booming voice interrupted his train of thought. Lifting an eyelid open, he glanced to Jessica and Garret, seeing a stone cold mask on the former and a raised eyebrow on the latter.

"Looks like we have important guests. Know anything about it? Are they here for me?" Garret asked as he looked at Azix.

Azix let out a yawn as he stretched his muscles, he hadn't realized how uncomfortable the chairs were. He shrugged, "I hadn't been around long enough to be briefed on important visitors, when your friend dragged me here." He let his eyelid rest back down and feigned a light sleep. Thoughts ran through his head as he tried to figure out what the Emperor had up his sleeve.

The soldier rose his glaive and stomped the butt of the weapon against the ground as he declared their intent. "We are here to take all of you and all of your prisoners into Reim." There was a pause as the warrior's expression changes to a sadistic grin and a massive wave of killing intent spread from him as a large cloud of black rukh began to gather around the man. "I, General Hei Lu, will personally be executing anyone who refuses. We need some dead bodies too~" There was an odd hint of pleasure in the general's voice as he prepared to cut the warden down should he do anything other than submit to the order.


It did not matter if the proxy obeyed or not, the General would raise his free hand and point it to the prison ordering all of his men to begin the operation immediately. The warriors stormed into the compound and proceeded to gather up everyone inside hoarding them out doors where their ruler was waiting. The white haired man held a silver rod with a glass chamber which was filled with swirling rukh of various types. White, Red, Orange, Blue, Purple, and Black birds fluttered within the sphere of glass became excited as a burst of magoi was fed into the tool. There was bright flash of red and white light followed by a shockwave extending outwards in a 60m diameter at a speed of 10m/s. As the wave of magic past through the air the temperature would slowly begin to rise to a more comfortable atmosphere. Once the chill of the mountains was removed the nature of the magic would shift suddenly and wind would begin to blow. It carried with it the scent of Zou and for a moment the peaks of the northern mountains would feel and smell like the homeland.

The mysterious man smiled as the atmosphere was changed to be more comfortable and looked over the group of people that had been gathered. Those who resisted were beaten and forced into one group while those who had come along with the soldiers willingly were placed in another group. As for the party found in the guest house, they were given their own separate area in between the Zou representative and the prisoners. Sharp eyes scanned the mass of humans and he began to speak using the same kind magic tool General Hei Lu had used. His voice was just loud enough to reach everyone's ears at a convenient volume as he explained the situation. "Good evening everyone. Would you all like freedom? I am releasing everyone from this facility but before you're allowed to go free I need one task of everyone here...We are going to capture Reim and kill the entire royal family. Those who don't come along will be killed."

At this point the man would give everyone time to consider the decision. In the meantime a soldier addressed him with a bow and a raised salute before reporting, "Sir, there were some guests of the prison who were neither guards nor inmates. They were apparently trying to leave but were snowed in due to our blizzard."

The white haired man smiled and nodded thankful that the man had thought to inform him. While he let people think about the offer he strolled over to the group of Zou operatives and addressed them with an apology. "It seems our travelling disguised caused you all trouble. I am sorry, I detest fate playing cruel tricks on people. Had I not been using it you would have escaped this cruel ordeal but unfortunately I must insist that you all be faced with the same choice. Now that you've heard our intent we can't very well let you leave. As a sign of my sincere remorse over this, I will grant each of you a question or a request if it is within reason." A better deal than the rest of the prison faced, but something about this man's eyes made him seem like someone to whom "reason" didn't apply.

While they had their chance to reply General Hei Lu began slaughtering those who did not agree to come along painting their responses with the death wails of prisoners and even some guards.

Kinala held her sandals in her hand for a moment as she felt the warm floor beneath her nearly frozen feet, it was a feeling she had not felt in a long time since before the blizzard had hit. The last time she had been this far north it had been on a hunting expedition in which she was nearly skewered by a stray spear, but such an act really couldn't deter her from finding new adventures in the iced capped mountains of the northern reaches. Her wanderlust couldn't be tamed, and so a few days ago she had set out for the northern mountains in order to simply have a good adventure if she could find one. She had been here for a while now, not much on her mind but the day ahead, and the blizzard had been so kind as to interrupt her. Luckily she had managed to find refuge in a nearby building, and judging from how it had looked on the outside it would seem to be some kind of prison. Still, it was a better alternative to the frigid storm outside, and she had promptly promised to keep her distance from anyone else so that she did not disturb the rest of the people there. She simply waited until the storm passed.

However, life and fate always seemed to have a plan in mind, and Kinala was along for quite the ride that day. The voice emanating from outside the prison should have been her first clue to try and clear out, but she couldn't even think about actually leaving into the frigid cold again. Of course, being escorted out into the yard with the rest of the occupants of the building would have been a good clue too. However the biggest hint would have been the smell of her birthplace, but she didn't want to think about that. And so she stood, silent and waiting as the actions of others went on about her, she wasn't really keen on being the center of attention anyway.

The Proxy did not have much of a outward reaction to the demands of the man, but inwardly he was greatly pleased. After all, he would be able to see the greatest of bloodbaths as all the prisoners were forced to fight! Such a delightful and elegant way to clear out the stale air of the prison.

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Garret looked at the man briefly before bowing. When he rose, he thanked the man for his considerations. "My name is Takegawa Iatsu. I appreciate your concern, however I am a member of the Zou operations in Reim. It would be an honor to assist you in your efforts in killing the royal family, and taking over Reim. My only request is for a gauntlet, a weapon I can use while assisting you.

As for information on the layout of the capital, well, I have extensive knowledge and a few key individuals who would be able to assist us. My knowledge is yours to use." Again, Garret bowed, showing his respect to the man who commanded the elite forces of Zou, as well as the owner of the Seal of the Emperor.

Jessica stood forward as Garret finished his introduction. She provided the respect expected from her station. "My name is Akamine Rin. I serve under Spymaster Takahashi Sato. Forgive me, for I do not recognize you. If we may know your name, who carries with him the will of the Emperor, we would be very grateful." Again, Jessica provided the appropriate show of respect after giving her request.

Garret and Jessica, as of yet, had not realized the intrusion of Kinala.

Take over Reim? Murder the Royal Family? Letting out a sadistic laugh, Azix turned to Garret. "What a splendid turn of events."

A grin stretched on Azix's face as he waited for the white haired man to approach them. He gave a respectful bow to the white haired man. "It seems our travelling disguised caused you all trouble. I am sorry, I detest fate playing cruel tricks on people. Had I not been using it you would have escaped this cruel ordeal but unfortunately I must insist that you all be faced with the same choice. Now that you've heard our intent we can't very well let you leave. As a sign of my sincere remorse over this, I will grant each of you a question or a request if it is within reason."

Azix pondered a moment on what he would ask, he noticed the silver rod with a glass chamber that the man was holding. He was intrigued to see that a rainbow of Rukh fluttered with the chamber. "My name is Azix and I have no qualms about assisting you. What is that pretty silver rod you have there? It appears you have every kind of Rukh in there."

((Kinala would have been included in the group of "guests" meaning she received the same offer to have a question or a request. Of course you have the right to remain silent as well.))

The royal proxy from Zou listened to each of the questions and requests coming from the individuals before him but one had remained silent. A young girl with strange animalistic adornments signature of a few rare tribes. The white haired mystery of a man would smile at her with eyes that pierced through the very soul as he tried to gauge whether she did not ask anything of him out of confusion, fear, pride, or something else altogether. "Do you not have a single question or request of me?" He would give her one last chance to make her wishes heard and turned his attention towards answering the others so the girl would have time to think.

Turning towards the first person to speak up, the man watched and listened patiently. The request was simple enough and a soldier was waved over to handle it, "Go to the equipment and get this man a gauntlet." The enigmatic Zouen appeared pleasantly surprised to hear that there was a capable operative in his midst however he held up his hand when his assistance was being offered. "No matter what help you can offer me, I must decline. It is important that I deal with Reim using my own cunning and strength otherwise its conquest will have no meaning."

With the first person addressed the next stepped forwards and began her own question. A sly smile played along the man's lips as he conceded his identity as requested, "My name is Zhi but I have no family name. I am the emperor's first son, but I am also a bastard with an illegitimate mother. This task is my one and only chance to prove myself worthy of my birthright as heir." This introduction was accompanied by a respectful bow despite the gesture being unnecessary for him all things considered. There was a sincerity behind his words that made it clear he was not raised to be a prince combined with an authority that showed it was in his blood nevertheless.

The last of the group asked an interesting question. Out of all the things he could have asked he simply inquired after the magic tool held in Zhi's hand. "This is a magic tool called 'Sky Mold' and it has a wide variety of rukh because they are all requires for its function. The device allows its holder to control the local weather. It is how we created the blizzard that trapped you hear as well as how we are able to enjoy the climate of our home country even in these barbaric mountains." With the explanation complete there was only one more person who had the bastard prince's ear. He turned to look at Kinala expecting her to be ready by now.

Before she would be able to speak however, General Hei Lu approached Zhi and brought fist to palm in a salute before bowing slightly, My lord, we have enough fuel for the transfer circle. Zhi nodded and commanded the general before asking Kinala if she were ready. "Good, begin drawing the circle and have the magician squad get some rest and food. They will need all the magoi they can muster with the number of people we have. Let any soldiers not required to watch the prisoners take a break as well. It will do us no good to storm the palace with exhausted soldiers...Now then, have you decided on a question or request little one?"

Kinala tugged at her tail as she stood in the midst of the soldiers, it was a dark time indeed. This new attack on Reim would most likely cause untold death and destruction in any event, but even Kinala could not stand up to the might of all of these men, they were too many. However, perhaps through the art of subterfuge she could find some way to disrupt their acts and bring an end to this whole endeavor. Then again, even as small and unnoticeable as she could be she was almost certain things would get hairy as soon as she was found out. And on an even more pressing matter in her head perhaps she was in the wrong to defy these men of her homeland. She had been born in Zou, the argument could be made that she owed her country a debt, but perhaps not. She still wore the trappings of a girl from Zou, it would become obvious sooner or later of where she was from. Still, this white haired man could hold some answers to the overall scheme, and if then she could find some way to interrupt the plan she may just have a chance. There were so many ways to approach the overall situation, but she couldn't decide which.

The overall guess of the situation was important as well. On her side there was no one, and she was surrounded by three other people who had elected to join the cause of the men of Zou. And then there were the soldiers, all commanded by this cunning white haired man who had introduced himself as Zhi. But she could be crafty, and with the powers of magic at her side she could at least cause a little bit of chaos before it was over. Still, it would be best to wait, and why waste a question? "Indeed, a question I do hold in my heart, and hopefully it will not offend you from the start. I would ask you allow me to stay and observe, for a magician's place is to learn and serve. A simple request, of that I am sure, but if you deem it too much then I shall say no more of that I can assure." Ah, the tongue of rhyme, it always did suit the little wolf girl well.

Azix listened to the man, who revealed himself to be the Emperor's first son, Zhi, noting his answers with interest. He was surprised to notice a young girl with animal ears and a tail nearby. He had been so wrapped up with the events taking place that he hadn't noticed her before. He gave her a small bow, as the white haired man revealed the purpose of the magical tool. Azix thought of several ways the tool could be useful in missions.

A man approached and notified the Kou Royal about a transfer circle. Azix wasn't sure what would occur soon, but he was interested to see more.

Garret paid attention to the answers given to each of his companions questions, but was surprised to see a strange tribe present. He had not noticed her earlier, until Zhi had said something.

Garret bowed at his decline of Garret's offer. It meant less credit to his team's actions in Reim, however this was not an issue he would press. The man specifically declined his offer in order to obtain as much credit for the conquest of Reim as possible. And he certainly had enough clout to throw that weight around.

No, if Garret were to join this man in his operations he would respectfully follow his orders. While Zhi was being briefed, a soldier brought back several different gauntlets, not knowing which would be best suited for Garret. Garret perused the various kinds before finding one that looked like it would serve his purposes. Reaching into his pack, Garret brought out Lizzy's Sapphire and took what looked to be some sort of gauntlet that was intended to be completed, but never finished, and placed the sapphire into a slot. The gauntlet took on a blue hue, the power of the sapphire washing over it. The gem subtly changed the nature of the gauntlet itself, and seemed to force the gauntlet to make it the perfect fit. Nodding at its craft, Garret placed the gauntlet onto his hand. Garret could have sworn that the thing had shifted slightly, readjusting itself as if it were made for him.

Zhi would listen to the young wolf-girl's request with a bemused smile as he noted the lack of respect or bowing. While she had made an attempt to paint herself a loyal servant, it was clear that she was not truly mindful of her responsibilities as a citizen of Zou. Zhi would assume this meant there was something insincere about the girl's request, however the white haired man was no mind reader. He was, however, a man of his word and nodded as this request was in line with his intentions anyways. "Oh, you're a magician are you?" Zhi's tone was friendly and his smile widened as he reached down to ruffle the girl's hair playfully, "Well, you look a bit young, but I'm sure you will learn much with us. Your request to accompany us is granted, although we wouldn't be letting you leave until our mission was over anyways."

Now all the questions and requests had been dealt with, but there was still some time to go before the magic transfer circle would be ready. Zhi clapped his hands together and gestured to the soldiers who were setting up fires for cooking food and positions to sit down and rest. "Now, since we need to wait before we can move again, I suggest we all sit down and have a rest." Zhi then moved to join his soldiers whom all greeted their leader with cheer. One could tell just by looking at their eyes that they would gladly follow him to their deaths. The bastard prince almost seemed like a normal person as he interacted with his men as he shrugged off their comments to rest and took it upon himself to begin serving meals to everyone from the stew they had prepared.

If the others joined him, Zhi would he would serve each person a warm bowl of a salty broth filled with enough meat and vegetables one might find it hard to believe so many ingredients could be kept fresh so long considering some were native to Zou. With everyone served a meal, including the former prisoners who had chosen to join the soldiers on their quest, Zhi would finally serve himself a bowl and sit next to the guests whom he'd given answers to from before. "So what were each of you doing here? This prison is not the kind of place one visits for vacation."

Meanwhile, the soldiers who were still on duty were dragging the dead bodies of those that had refused to come along into a large circle big enough to encapsulate everyone present. They did their work far enough from the resting group that they would not be ruining anyone's meals due to the gruesome nature of it. When there weren't enough bodies, they began chopping off limbs to be used to fill in the gaps, then simply trails of blood when the limbs ran out.

The leader of this group, Garret was surprised to see, was the one handing out the servings of food. Garret accepted the stew with a bow, as was customary when receiving something from another. Garret stirred the thing as he sat down in order to cool it down. His sitting was that of the traditional style; Za. His legs were folded beneath him, and he rested his buttocks upon the top of those legs, with a fist space of separation between his knees.

He smelled the fragrance of the homeland, not simply from the scent of the weather, but from the food itself, and smiled. It had been quite some time since he was able to eat something so rich in flavor, and filled with tastes that he had not had since he had come to Reim.

Garret resisted the temptation to begin immediately, setting his bowl down gently while awaiting everyone to be served, regardless of whether they had waited for him or not. He was not one to rush, and could enjoy the entirety of the experience they were having at this moment.

He ignored the movements of the soldiers on the outskirts, who were moving around some dead bodies, and focused himself at the rare pleasure at hand. When Zhi had joined them at last, he had asked a what they were doing in such a place. Garret moved his bowl to the side and reached out with his right hand first, followed by left, into a triangle set in front of him and bowed from the Za position.

"It was my failure of defending his Excellency Li Cao from an assassination that originally brought me here. Our orders were to wait for him in town, but I had received word that an assassin had been hired." Garret lied, in part. He had never received confirmation on whether or not an assassin had actually been hired, though one had been. He had only received confirmation that the man's life was one that many wanted to see ended. "I had seen an assassin within the forest as I rushed to the camp. Unfortunately, I too was seen in my haste to reach the camp, and the assassin was too quick to follow. I hurried to his camp and ordered a search throughout the forest, as to make sure whether or not he was alone. It was during this time that the Assassin made it past the guards and my two-man team before slaying His Excellency and making his escape. We were only able to cause minor harm to the man. But I have been freed, it seems, though I have yet to read my new orders, as they are to be relevant when I return to my post..." Garret explained why he was there, though it was for a shameful reason for one of Zou. The reason for his release was not yet revealed to him.

Garret was not sorrowful for the situation, at peace with how everything had turned out. He came out of the prison a different man; stronger, more confident. The peacefulness that accompanied those feelings were revealed in his poise.


Akamine Rin was sitting in Za as well, and had awaited Zhi's return before partaking in the meal. While Garret was talking, she paid close attention while pretending to focus on eating. When he was done, she spoke next. "I am here under the orders of Takahashi Sato, I was to deliver a missive to Takegawa Iatsu, as well as the Proxy, for his release and new orders. That mission has been completed." Her explanation was much more succinct, and she did not elaborate any further.

Azix accepted a bowl of the Zouen bowl, savoring the taste, not realizing how much he missed the food of his native land. He noticed, while Garret talked, that the man seemed different, not just physically, but mentally as well. His focus briefly noticed the prisoner's corpses being dragged onto a large magical circle. He continued eating, while he tried to remember where he had seen another large magical circle.

His thoughts were interrupted shortly into his chewing when he'd realized it was his turn to respond. He quickly chewed while pointing towards Rin, "Same as her." He tipped his bowl at an angle, pouring the contents into his mouth.

Kinala dipped her head in respect at the acceptance of her request, so far she was making things work in her favor. Secrecy, secrecy was always key when one meant to make a difference against a multitude of opposing odds. She was alone now, but if she could keep things rolling her way she could find some way to win. She sat down and with a secondary bow of her head she accepted the bowl before downing it quickly. She hadn't eaten in two days, her food had all frozen up in the mountains as she had traveled her from the main city. It had been a tough journey, but it might be worth it if she could save the city from this attack. She could already see it, she would be a hero of the city, she would never be forgotten if she could finish this. The magic circle would be the key, if she could interrupt it she could defeat the entire force without resorting to violence. And because it was so large it would be even easier.

Her thoughts were drawn back to the man named Zhi who asked why they were in the mountains. Kinala smiled a sharp toothed grin, "My journey to this land was more planned on a personal level, as I am an explorer in which I revel. I came from the homeland originally, but since then I have wandered brilliantly. To these mountains I have come, and because of this I no longer feel glum. It has been an honor to meet you of course sir, such in a way that ruffles my fir."

The illegitimate prince and hopeful heir ate his meal quietly and patiently as he listened to each reason for why these citizens of Zou had found themselves trapped on the mountain. It seemed as though all of them were more or less there for the same reasons save for the poor wolf girl who somehow managed to find herself wandering into the mountains. There was a slight change in Zhi's presence as he looked the operatives over carefully. It was as if he were trying to gauge or measure something but none would have to guess at what for very long. The white haired youth set his bowl down and gave each of them a look, even the young animal eared girl, before asking a rather sudden question.

"I see...It seems that fate led you all here to die, but I refuse to live by the will of a "God" that does not speak to me. I don't think any of you should accept that either. But before you can continue your lives I must ask you an important question. Just how loyal are you all to the Emperor? If I told you that serving him meant forfeiting your own lives, would you do your duty as citizens of Zou and die with a smile?"

It was hard to tell from his expression and tone exactly what kind of answer Zhi was looking for, but it was clear that he was very intent about watching each of them as they considered their response. Before anyone could reply, Zhi would hold up his hand to swiftly discard any doubts about their safety, "I implore you all to answer truthfully. No matter what you decide, I promise that you will not be punished. However, if I suspect you are lying then the good General Hei Lu will be dealing with you once our mission is complete. Let me stress this again. I will only seek punishment upon you if I suspect your answer is a lie. Even if you proclaim you want the Emperor dead, just this once I will turn a deaf ear and pretend we never had this conversation." The intensity in his eyes was a testament to the royal blood running through Zhi's veins as he made his statement. There was truth in his words but the intent behind them would remain ambiguous.

For the most part, Garret had not paid much attention to Kinala. He was thinking to himself as she spoke, and then began to wonder if she had introduced herself insofar as what her name was. Garret's eyes narrowed, having not even realized he had missed it. Before he could speak up, however, Zhi asked them a treacherous question.

Garret paused as his eyes widened in momentary shock at the man's treasonous words. For a moment, he thought that they were a trap; a means for Zhi to attempt to root out any traitors. No. Garret thought, regarding the man before him. He has his own agenda. And he's testing us against a criteria.

The question itself was dangerous from all angles possible, and the man asking the question had all the bargaining chips no matter how he answered. Garret changed his sitting posture from Za to a more relaxed and comfortable cross-legged position. Should he answer that he would die for the Emperor, Garret was sure that the man would likely kill him on the spot. Should he warn Zhi of his treasonous words, well, Zhi could have him killed on the spot; dead men tell no tales. And should he tell the man he wanted the Emperor dead, which was not a decision Garret had come to, he would likely be killed by friendly fire during the assault on Reim.

He had no doubt that the man's promise was good, however such a strong show of treachery makes a man wonder how long it is until he, too, will be turned on. And those in power often have to take a road of caution, in regards to those matters.

No, there were only two possible solutions to this problem. Garret could either tell the man the truth, and report this man's actions at a later date in order to protect himself from backlash, or he could lie, and have no need to file such a report.

Garret breathed deeply through his nose while allowing the serene state of mind he had practiced during his Island of Tranquility Kata to run through his body. It not only had a calming effect upon himself, but also put him in the state of readiness to defend against attacks. He looked defenseless to most, but those familiar with the battlefield would definitely feel that there were no easy openings. Garret chose the route of truth.

"You say that you believe fate has led us to die. It's unfortunate you have such little faith in our abilities." Garret began, slightly off topic. But it was soon made apparent why he began with that, as he continued. "Your question is a hard one to answer. My loyalty lies with the Empire. Through extension, the Emperor is the Empire. Depending on the situation, I might lay my life down. However." Garret paused, looking Zhi in the eyes, searching the man for his reactions. "My abilities are not something to be squandered for petty gain. My loyalty is best shown through my will to survive and continue to contribute to the Empire."

While he did not outright say it, his belief in the system was laid bare. The Emperor exists for the people, and the people are the Empire. Over the course of his stay in Reim, Garret's sense of self and willingness to cooperate with others had evolved and created this idealism that was the fundamentals of his beliefs. Between the lines, Garret implied that he was willing to stand against the Emperor's orders if they were detrimental to the Empire, and that though this may be the case, he would be willing to fight to the end if that end provided a contribution that outweighed the combined possibilities of his contributions for the rest of his lifetime.

Garret did not believe that there was anything that weighed so heavily that could be obtained simply through his death.


Rin spoke in a cold and detached manner. "I work directly under the Spymaster, and occasionally receive orders form the Emperor himself. While I will assist you with your selfish goal, do not for a moment believe that you can question my loyalty." There seemed to be an edge of contempt to her voice.

Azix sat silent, putting on a neutral expression as he considered Zhi's words. Thankfully, Garret began speaking, giving him time to think. The answer depended on Zhi's intentions behind the question and Azix wondered if it would be a trap. There was also the possibility that Zhi, being a bastard son, wanted to remove the Emperor as well. After running several possibilities and consequences through his mind, he remembered that he had survived a few hits on his life before. Deciding to provide Zhi with an honest answer, he steeled himself for the consequences and waited for Garret to finish speaking.

Garret made a good argument and provided the answer that he was loyal to the Empire, which didn't coincide with Azix's feelings, but he respected his partner's opinion. With Zhi's focus on him, Azix nodded respectfully before providing his answer. "I've lived through a few traps that were set by me, whether from the Emperor directly or another in the Nobility. I also, refute fate's desire to see me perish before I am good and ready. As much as it may or may not displease you, I would ignore the Emperor's wish for me to die. Like Garret so artfully expressed, I too feel that my abilities are not something to be squandered. I find living a better option than death, especially since I'm fighting to change the unjust hand of fate. Destiny," his face contorted as he said the word, "should have no place in this world."

Kinala scratched one of her ears at the question. It was certainly her chance to answer the question truthfully, but even with that chance there did come the risk of being found out. She couldn't simply make her plans known, but perhaps by telling the truth she could remain hidden in a way. She couldn't risk a lie either, she was rather fond of being alive. The others seemed more inclined to live by their own standards than by that of the Emperor despite the fact that they served the Empire, but Kinala was quite different. She looked up at the sky for a moment as she pondered her answer. "It would be foolish to lie seeing as I would very much not like to die. I may have been born in the homeland as you can no doubt tell, but I grew up for the most part outside of its shell. As such I would no not on how to stand with the Emperor, only with my own heart does my loyalty lie as an adventurer. I hold no ill will towards the Emperor or his people, much like the hawk holds no ill will towards a steeple."

There was a calm patience in Zhi's manner as he listened to each response with a neutral expression. The young wolf girl was the last to give her thoughts on the matter and it ended with everyone having given satisfactory answers. "I do not believe any of you lied and thank each of you for your honesty." Zhi then brought his hands together and used the bridge of his fingers to rest his chin as he looked to Garret first.

"You seem to misunderstand what I meant when I said fate brought you here to die. It was not a lack of faith in your abilities, but rather a solid confidence in the abilities of my own men. General Hei Lu in particular...The task of conquering Reim had originally been given to him before I intervened and risked my life to demand the Emperor allow me to lead this operation. Had I not done so, the number of bodies the good General had collected would have been much higher and chances are, he'd leave no survivors once the mission was finally complete. This of course, would have included all of you." There was a brief pause as the bastard prince considered the rest of the magician's words before going on to say, "I don't think your philosophy is wrong however. The Emperor is nothing without his Empire and service to both is essential for our country's survival."

The eyes Zhi started with narrowed slightly and turned the the woman as he moved on to address Rin's statement about questioning loyalties. "I apologize if my question offended you, however you would do well not to become defensive over the subject of your loyalty for it is questioned each and every day. There is not a single person in this world whom my father trusts and he is always suspicious of treason coming from spies, officials, or even his citizens. Get used to having it tested if you wish to rise in rank and status within the empire..."

Next would be Azix, and as Zhi turned to face him, the prince's lips curved into an amused smile, "'Garret', eh? The man had accidentally blown Garret's cover by using his name as opposed to the alias he'd given earlier. It was of no consequence to Zhi whether these people hid their names or not, but he appreciated the straight forward honesty this man had given him. "I believe you were the most truthful of all and that you know more about the world than your companions. Indeed, giving your life for the Emperor is a waste unless there is a deeper cause behind the order. I am also glad to have met someone who understands the insignificance of 'destiny' and the role it supposedly plays in our lives." There was a slight bow of acknowledgement from Zhi before he finally laid his eyes on Kinala.

With his gaze now firmly set upon the animal eared youth, Zhi gave the girl a bit of advice for the future. "I admire your free spirit, little one. It is refreshing to see one so young living their life on their own terms. You are not wrong to refute your duty to the Emperor as he has done nothing for you. But do not let others from Zou hear you speak those words again. There are many citizens within the empire who would stone you for your 'ungrateful' attitude."

As the last words left Zhi's mouth, a soldier approached and kneeled before reporting, "Sir! The Magic Transfer Circle is complete. The Magician Corps. is simply waiting for the command. The prince nodded and gave the order as he stood. "Activate the circle! We're moving out!" He then turned to the group he'd been speaking with and gave a slight sigh, "It is regrettable that we must end our talk here. I would have liked to speak with all of you more. Perhaps if you survive the day we may yet converse once more." and with that, Zhi turned to oversee the preparation.

Several magician's had gathered around the circle of flesh and blood and began casting life magic upon the symbol. The sinews and bones began to shift unnaturally and bit by bit the circle and all it's grotesque symbols began to turn black. A giant living being was created and this creature became the magic circle itself. It's black flesh was evenly distributed now rather than sporadic limbs and blood being strewn about and at its center was a gigantic eye.

Most of the soldiers mounted their flying carpets and hovered over the circle while the rest huddled the prisoners inside it's boundaries with Garret, Azix, and Kinala all positioned close to the odd eye that was in the center. Once everyone was assembled, the magician's would pour magoi into the living magic circle they had created. The great eye would began to look around erratically as several locations within Reim became reflected upon it's pupil. At last, it settled on the throne room of the Palace of Kings and a golden light began to shine on the ground beneath everyone's feet.

The circle was activated and nothing could stop the transfer now...

Garret fought his eyes to keep them from narrowing at Zhi's explanation. He listened to each of the others as well, and frowned when Azix had finished speaking. I had thought him stronger. To blame something that cannot be measured, such as fate, for bad situations... However, I am more concerned about the point Zhi was trying to make. How twisted is this man's mind, for him to believe that fate led us here to die.

This had truly puzzled Garret, as the man explained that they would likely have died had he not begged to go on this mission. Would that not mean that fate smiled upon them? And it wasn't as if fate itself were alive and directing their lives anyways. As Hasan had told him, fate was much more intricate and a lot less forceful than that.

He had not had much time to consider the man's, and everyone else's, words before they were interrupted and a creature, vile and disgusting, had been created with the assistance of life magic. Nearby, a strange eye popped open and began looking about erratically. It disgusted him not only to see such a sight, but to be standing on the flesh of such a strange creature... Garret made his way a bit further from the eye, so as to not have to deal with it.

While moving about, Garret kept an eye out on the various soldiers and how they reacted to Zhi. He had already seen how easy they got along with the man, but he wanted to see if there was anything else about this man that he could determine from their interactions. Lieutenant Acius always said you could determine the cut of a man by those he leads.


Rin, on the other hand, was cool and detached during the entire exchange with Zhi. She seemed uncaring about what he had said; the woman was long since used to working in the capital of Zou, and in fact was already well aware of the fact that everyone was suspected of treachery, including herself. She would never admit it out loud in front of many, but it amused her; the Emperor was right to suspect everyone. She knew, through her jobs at the capital, that almost everyone wanted to dispose of him.

She took great pleasure in throwing kinks into plans like those, as it amused her to see well thought out plans crumble. While Iatsu's response was somewhat appropriate, she believed she detected a hint of treachery in it. And as for Azix... Well, the man was much more revealing in his disregard for the Emperor. And considering who his father was, she considered herself lucky to have an opportunity to see if the son followed the father's footsteps.

She did not let any of this show on her face, and simply stood up and watched as the rest of the events took place.

Azix realized the mistake he had made, with a slip of the tongue he revealed too much. He didn't let it reflect into the neutral mask he had maintained thus far, but he had given Zhi the name, Garret. Azix was accustomed to the name, forgetting Garret had provided the name Iatsu to Zhi. With an internal sigh, he looked to the white haired girl, Kinala. He realized she had been talking in rhyme, lending a musical quality to her words.

His thoughts were interrupted as a soldier approached, informing Zhi that the magical circle was complete and that magicians awaited his command. The mention of the magic circle triggered a previous memory of an encounter with The White Samaritan, Barsatos. With Zafar, Azix had murdered Barsatos in a compound. The compound had been a large magical circle under a dome. Yet, the dome couldn't compare to what became of the circle before him. It had become a writhing black creature with an eye in it's center, forming the circle. Azix mouth slightly dropped as the eye began to reveal locations in Reim. He blinked as it settled on the throne room, and looked around.

Soldiers began piling onto the magic carpets, while prisoners were ordered onto the eye. Azix glanced towards Garret, wondering what he made of the situation. He noticed an odd look in Iatsu's eye, that Azix didn't recognize from the blue magician. Azix wondered how much the man had changed during his time in prison. He also wondered how much he had changed himself. He shook the thoughts from his head and turned back to the matter at hand. Zhi's plan had finally revealed itself, now it was time to watch the pieces fall into place or fall into disaster.

Kinala could only nod at the praise and words of Zhi, she didn't have much to say about herself. She had said what she had wished, and she could still see to it that the plan was foiled and the people of Reim remained free from the pain of the Empire. But the writhing mass of black flesh was a different story. The magic circle itself was alive, it was as if someone had torn a page from Kinala's own book. The creature was infused with magic and no doubt in a great amount of pain, but that wasn't what had Kinala worried. Such a powerful speel wasn't to be made without purpose, and only with her thoughts finally coming together could she understand. This was the gate, the way into Reim that would leave the soldiers at the doorstep of the royal family. There was no way the city could anticipate the strike, it was all but undetectable and no army could stand against a surprise attack of this magnitude. However, Kinala could.

Yes, she could stop this now before it even got started, and she would. The key to her success did not lie in defeating the soldiers, no she could never do that, however there was another option. The eye, that was the key. If the magic circle was alive then it could feel pain, and if Kinala could launch a spell right into the eye of the beast then it would fall and the magic would be undone. The plan would be foiled, for as far as Kinala could see there was no way they could build another circle like this. Stealth was key now, and Kinala had her ways. As quietly as she could she slid her staff from her sleeve and into her hand. The rukh around her began to form around her staff in a more visceral manner, and before she made her move Kinala made a silent prayer. 'Please let this work.' she begged in her thoughts, 'Don't let all of those people in the city fall into the death sleep because of me.' In one fluid motion the young wizard pointed the tip of her staff towards the eye of the magic circle and released a serpent shaped coil of wood from her staff. The snake tossed in the air and sprouted wings as it flew towards the eye of the circle. When it reached there, as it no doubt would, the snake would bite directly into the eye and cause it serious harm. Kinala could only hope that it would be enough.

140/150 Magoi Remaining:

Magoi would begin to build in the staffs of the magician's around the circle's edge as the light on the ground rose to form a spatial barrier around the outside making escape from the circle impossible until the transfer was complete. The eye was staring intently at something in the distance and the image of the Palace of Kings become more and more clear as it became more specific and began reflecting locations inside the interior of the palace. At last it settled on the throne room and the light began to intensify. The magic creature was ready to transport the entire group and began quivering in preparation for this act. But one passenger was not going to let things go smoothly...

As the mischievous wolf girl began her spell, a nearby soldier would immediately notice her. The man was already weary of any wild stunts from the prisoners, but even his keen eyes were not watching the guests of prince Zhi with scrutiny. It was only by chance that he happened to glance in her direction as Kinala formed her life magic dragon. "Hey! Someone Sto-" It was too late to do anything. The girl was positioned as close to the eye of the magic circle as could be and her magic spell would form far too fast for anyone to stop her even if they had noticed the casting. It was possible to grab Kinala before the consequences of her magic took place, but there would be no preventing the disaster that was to come.

When the beast of wood formed and crashed into the eye, the magic being would let out an ear piercing cry that would turn into an unearthly groan of agony that would shake the very bones of everyone inside. The lines of the magic circle would wiggle and squirm in great pain as the eye began looking around frantically again. The image reflected in it's pupil became distorted and unclear, an issue that only advanced as tears filled the magic circle's peeper. There would be a great flash of white light and then everyone was gone leaving only the poor magic circle beast behind with a handful of magician and soldiers to tend to it's weeping form.

Garret had been watching Zhi and how he handled his men up to the point where he heard a man shout out 'Hey!' in a hurried tone. Knowing that the tone was something that forewarned trouble, Garret snapped his head towards the shout in time to see the odd one from their group earlier cast a spell that struck the thing's eye.

The beast yelled, or perhaps screeched would be a better word, and Garret covered his ears, wincing. The creature groaned, which almost caused Garret to lose his footing. He fought to keep it, though moments later it did not seem to matter.

Everything went white.