Furry Fantasy

(OOC: Sorry if it took somewhat longer than usual. I'm much faster than this normally. I just had some troubles with this one, and I was occupied with my own RP. I think this is a pretty good reply. If I need to change anything, say so and I will do so.)

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~~~Atmos Castle: ~~~`

At that moment, an icy chill filled the war room as a fierce, but calm voice followed afterwards out nowhere.

“You’ve got a pretty big mouth for calling me insolent, lion cub, don’t you? Without me, this kingdom wouldn’t have gained such advances in technology and magic enough to stage that monster attack on Elysium. Something you haven’t even done. So, in respect to your lineage and my good mood, let’s keep it at that, okay?”  

Icy winds then swirled and condensed into a tall wolf-shaped icy sculpture in the war room’s center, which upon shattering, revealed a 7’3” foot tall, grayish-blue, saber-toothed wolf demon, his icy-blue slited eyes flaring with silent intimidation. His appearance was truly demonic  due to his sharp, pointy icicle-made wolf ears, his raven wings  and his swishing demon’s tail. As for clothing terms, he wore a midnight blue bodysuit covered in demonic dark blue/icy blue armor sporting a demonic facial fanged design in the front. The enity looked upon his company with a grin.

“Well, hi there all. Hope I didn’t put you off guard with my sudden appearance. Name’s Arcticerex, the Archdemon of Violence. Nice to meet ya. Your king and head-scientist already know me, so my sudden appearance isn’t a surprise to them. Must say, hearing so much about these famous warriors of Cassus...I expected something more spicier. Like that gorgeous she-wolf there. Hehehehehe. Oh well. “

Creating a ice chair, the wolf demon sat and smirked. “Now that we’re all here, lets get this boring meeting underway, shall we? As your head-scientist Codaidus mentioned; Elysium has now adapted to the monster invasion method, so a second attempt won’t work, much to my annoying dismay. In other words, things are going to be tricky. A pity to be sure as I really liked what I saw, having been there myself. If I had joined physically, things would have been much more, say,  interesting for my gain.“

Arcticerex then grinned,  “But no worries...for while hiding in their shadows observing their aftermath...I picked up some interesting information I’d think you’ll like hearing.  It covers about who were responsible in negating your first attack, what their current plans are, and tells of a possible better method for your kingdom to conquer or destroy Elysium. Interested perhaps? I know I am. ”

~~~Elysium Castle – Main Hall: ~~~

Nightstar smiled towards Tai, “It’s fine Tai. I was just curious. Guess she’s not a people person. I dealt with types such as her before. Its no biggie.“ She turned slightly towards Momotaro’s attempt to interact Flynn. She had to chuckle a bit.

“Hmm, that’s interesting Tai. “Snowforest said, hearing Tai’s statement about their scriptures involving this world’s creation myths. “Yet, its not something I’m really surprised to hear, for when it comes to mortals, the Sphere’s very existence has always pretty much stayed invisible, except for us three and the rest of our crew. That and the beings you speak of, surely only created this world, as everything outside this dimension’s borders isn’t theirs, so your scriptures would be kind of accurate in their truth telling. “

Snowforest chuckled. “In fact, its likely that the Sphere itself might have created these two deities you mentioned as the former is a living invisible presence, but this has never been covered in your world’s legends, giving more truth to your scriptures. “

“The Sphere, even while your world has no real knowledge of it, its a amazing place, a living phenomena on its own. We can stand talking about everything related to it, but by the time we’re finished, several days will have passed by. “Crossfire said jokingly.

The gunslinging tiger faced everyone present within the hall, “However, just telling about it doesn’t do our story any justice. Rather, instead of us telling stuff about it, you Tai, Momotaro, Felicity, Exile, and even Flynn, all of you should actually see it first hand and experience what we experienced. Trust me on that, once that happens, I’m sure even Flynn and Exile would be visually impressed and awe struck. Its literally something beyond anyone’s imaginations. Many of our crew, prior to our big exploration, were the same unbelievers, but eversince we entered that mystical realm...it changed our lives for both better and worse. “

Nightstar smiled, “Indeed. In fact, if we never entered the Sphere itself, we likely wouldn’t have been here in the first place. That I can be sure of. “She turned to Felicity. “Although I don’t know much about how magic works in your world, Felicity, its very possible that your friend’s Rune Magic may have been used at the same time the Sphere was having one of its “moods” . Its a term we gave to describe the Sphere’s tendency to be unstable at times, causing random dimensional rips in space-time. We’ve experienced them several times already. Your friend’s magic, may have accidentally tapped into the Sphere’s essence, thereby empowering that teleportation spell of his, warping you and your two friends here at random. “

“I have no doubt there. Its most likely the exact same occurrence that happened with us. Who knows that the Sphere will have another of its moods take place here somewhere? “Snowforest added in. He then stood up, stretching himself out. “Anyways, perhaps its best we end our tale here, and head outside to see if we can do something help out some of the townspeople outside. Perhaps put down some investigations of our own. We still have a whole day ahead of us. What do you all say?”

“I don’t mind killing some time. Sitting here and doing nothing but waiting for tomorrow’s departure is too boring and yawn inducing. “Crossfire said, having his arms over each other.  “What about you, hun?”

“You don’t need to ask me. I’m fine with it. Its like Snowforest said. We still have a entire day’s worth before leaving tomorrow. “She faced Tai and the other four companions.

“What do you all say?“

Flynn gave Momotaro a weary look and said, “Well, big guy, I'll just say you give me a tour of this place and I won't complain as much.”

“Better swear a blood oath on that, foxy,” said Exile, a small smile on her face. “And again, more of that dimensional stuff flew over my head. Since most of our weapons are being forged by blacksmiths, I'm with outfox and say let's explore this city.”

Felicity shrugged. “I suppose I'll throw my vote in for a tour of this town. Must be nice being carefree with what's on the horizon for us tomorrow.”

“Can't always be a soldier day in and out,” said Exile. “Even I know it's good for your psyche to unwind every now and again. Relax a little, bun-bun.”

Felicity sighed. “You and your bizarre nicknames, Exile. If no one doesn't mind, I'd like to carry my weapons with me. I don't like feeling unarmed at any given moment.”

“Trust us, she even sleeps with her sword close by,” said Flynn, smirking for the first time despite earning a stern glare from the gray and white she-rabbit.

Momotaro gave Flynn a bright smile. "Of course. We can experience this world together. It's my first time being outside of the monastery and already I've found so much to enjoy."

Tai was in a stunned silence with the explaination of the sphere and the universe. The gods they worshiped could have done just as written or just been apart of something grander in scale. It was more than his mind could really grasp.

"Um... that's.. interesting..."

With that, his mind was easily turned onto the idea of touring the town.

"Well, I suppose we can do something like that." He said. "I think it would be better if we just rested for tomorrow, but this may help. Who knows? Maybe some of the merchants have stuff we could use on the trip."

Momotaro nodded happily. "Yes. I haven't even had the chance to explore."

The red feline smiled. "ok! Sounds great!"

"Perhaps... I could come along?" A voice sounded. Tai and Momotaro turned to see Morgana just joining them. She looked very different than before. Her cloak and robes were no where to be see and she now wore a knee-length white dress with dark sleeves and black fur trimming at the hem and black embroidery at the bust. Along with this was a black bolero, a black cinch belt, black knee-high boots with pom-poms, and elbow-length black gloves. Her hair, long and white while peppered with spots of black, was tied into a pony tail and held with a black bow.

"Morgana." Tai identified. "you want to go with us?"

"Of course." The snow leopardess answered. "I have not seen the city other than the few areas I was escorted to by the guards. It might be nice to walk around without a sword pointed at the back of my neck."

A sense of uncertainty fell over him.

"Well... I suppose..."

This was something Morgana easily caught.

"I meant that metaphorically. Your companions still have their weapons and could easily apprehend me should I try to run. And should I attack, you and the mage there could handle my magic. So there is no risk."

Tai didn't like the way she put it. he didn't want any incidents. But at the same time, he understood.

"Alright sure."

~Atmos Castle~

How dare you! was the response Wedge desperately wanted to shout out to the demonic wolf, but wasn't able to. He knew when to return fire and when to keep his mouth shut and this was the time for the latter. Lilian gave the being a soft smile, thinking that for a demonic being, he was rather cute.

A soft wheezing laugh broke this quiet. Cocaidus let out a few laughs before correcting himself.

"While you contributions have helped immensely" he said. "we were well on our way to completing this technology. I would ask you not to underestimate us."

"Yes. Also..." King Garland spoke, his eyes locked with the wolf demons without fear or intimidation. " while my son spoke out of turn, he is still my son. I would like you to watch the way you address him. An insult to the royal family is an insult to the empire. "

Barbaros nodded in approval.

"if you were there" Hagith started "why didn't you join in?"

The king waved this off. "It is not important. Go on, Arcticerex. Tell us."

~~~Atmos Castle - War Room: ~~~

Arcticerex sat in his chair, grinning at the lion king in front of him, impressed at his show of spine, yet at the same time, wasn’t taken back with the threat he had uttered. For some reason, if they ever fought, Arcticerex grinned knowing such a confrontation would be interesting, if not amusing if it ever came. He could use a good sparring match, whereas that pig warrior was nothing more than lunch to him.

He spoke. “Whatever you say...King Garland. But for a friendly, future warning, I’d strongly suggest not threatening the likes of me. Trust me, you don’t want to do that. “ He then got up from his chair, giving a brief glare to that bratty lion prince, before he returned his gaze to the rest.

“Alright, as I said before, I have uncovered some interesting bits of news. Starting off, the monster army that was sent to Elysium with, I say, your still evolving technology, was stopped by not just Elysium’s finest, but they were also helped out by a group of six strangers, three of which I know very well. Like me, they too come from beyond this world’s boundaries.”

There was silence...

“Surprised? Whether you are or not, its true, I and those six fighters come from different worlds, worlds you don’t know of, nor belong or have anything do with this particular world. In fact, this world, dimension, realm, whatever its called, its just a tiny speck that’s part of a much bigger whole that goes beyond your mere understanding. Let’s say your empire doesn’t even begin to compare. You’d be surprised what knowledge I have because of it, for what I gave you, is just the tip of the iceberg. “

The wolf demon took a small break. “But anyways, the biggest scoop I discovered while hiding in one’s shadows, is that Elysium has this particular book. You ever heard of the Arcanum Tempus, gentlemen and women?”

Arcticerex grinned. “I know I do, but if you know about it as well...that’s even better, for let me tell you; that very book is the key to your victory. And let me tell you...just the reason why. “

~~~Elysium Castle – Main Hall: ~~~

The orange tiger grinned, putting a hand on Morgana. “Well, well,  you look mighty fine there, young lady. Nothing wrong with a lady as fine as you coming along. I’d say the more, the merrier, no? “Crossfire said smiling.

“Ahem...”Nightstar said, clearing her throat, “Crossfire, you’d better watch it, or else. “Crossfire looked fearful seeing his mate’s glare.

Crossfire sheepishly smiled, “Sure...whatever you say hun. I wasn’t trying to...well you know...Besides, she’s younger than me anyways. I’m just being a welcoming host. That’s all.”

Nightstar smirked a bit, “Riiigghhhhtt.... sure you are. “The blue tigress turned to Morgana. “Sorry for my mate’s...behavior. He has a thing with girls in general. Don’t mind his antics. “She gave Crossfire another warning look as to not overdo it...again. Crossfire fearfully swallowed a lump, slowly leaving Morgana’s side.

Snowforest laughed a old man’s laugh, “Hahahahahaha! That’s Crossfire for you. He and his casanova nature. It never gets old. “He then faced everyone else. “Alright, it seems we reached a mutual agreement. Come, lets go.  “He started to walk, but as he did so, he turned to Tai.

“I reckon you know the way to the castle’s exit, my good friend?”

Felicity looked at Morgana and, almost instantly, her ears twitched and her distrusting instincts kicked in. She placed a hand on her sheathed sword and slightly pulled it out halfway.

“You sound like you don't want to be trusted, Morgana,” said the white and gray she-rabbit, her tone hard and unforgiving. “While I don't know your story, and let me make this clear; if you try to attack us, you'll have more than just a sword pointed at your neck.”

Flynn groaned. “We haven't left the castle and already you're full on soldier mode!”

Exile crossed her arms over her chest. “I'd say Miss bushy tail wants to prove she can be trusted. Then again, we're not in much of a position to talk either. We're all still strangers to one another. Anyway, since the red one already agreed to her joining this tour, let's get out this stuffy castle and get some fresh air. What says you, Felicity?”

Felicity pushed her sword back into its sheath. “I suppose. I'll be carrying my weapons with me all the same as precaution. It's better to be safe than caught off guard at any moment.”

Morgana largely ignored Crossfire's advances, although when he placed his hand on her she flinched. She would have retaliated had Nightstar not come in. She breathed a sigh of relief. If there was one thing she hated, it was being touched when she didn't want to be touched.

"That's ok." she answered. "If that's how he is, then fine."

But it was Felicity's sword that crossed the line. An aura of magic flowered around Morgana in response to the threat. It hummed with a quiet power that seemed calm, but threatening. As Felicity placed her sword back into its scabbard, Morgana slowly calmed her heart rate and the magic slowly faded from her.

“Perhaps I did not say it right.” She clarified. “I meant it as a way to assure the group that I would cause no trouble. Obviously it backfired, so allow me to try again. I have no reason to harm or endanger the group. As per our agreement, I shall guard the white mage on his quest just as the rest of you will. “

“Ok, ok.” Tai said, trying to calm everyone down. “Now that we got that out of the way, we can head over to the bazaar. From what I saw, damage in that area was pretty much zero, so the shops could still be open and we can pick up some stuff for the trip.”

“And maybe more food.” Momotaro said with a smile.

“So if everyone is ok, the exit is not far from here.” He said. “Just a couple halls down and to the right. While we go, I can point out some neat art and stuff.”

~Atmos Castle~
Barbaros had to keep himself under control. If he didn’t, he would not have any trouble attempting to behead the demon for talking back to the king. After this meeting, he’d have to have a little discussion with Arcticerex, with his sword for insurance of course.

Garland raised his eyebrow, intrigued at the notion of a book being a key to their victory.

“Cocaidus, what do you know of this?” he asked, shifting his gaze to the scientist. The only answer he got was a wheezing chuckle from the hooded man.

“The Arcanum Tempest is a tome that once belonged to the time mage guild.” He answered. “They say within its pages are the complete collection of their research on the magic of space and time. However, as with every group who studies magic, the tome has a means of protecting the information”

“What means?”

Cocaidus cleared his throat. “I have never seen it myself. Supposedly, the various pages, paragraphs, and sentences are enchanted so that they each appear only at a certain time of day. Sometimes they are there for an hour, sometimes a few seconds. Because the time mages had mastery over time, they would certainly have an easier time reading it than others would. “

Garland pondered this. “And you think this is a weapon they may be able to use?”

Cocaidus shook his head. “No. Even if they were able to translate it, the time mage guild has been for some time. Without proper guidance, the spells within that book are as much a danger to them as it would be to us. “

“ I see.” The lion said before turning his attention back to Arcticerex. “So, why bring this up?”

~~~Atmos Castle - War Room: ~~~

Arcticerex demonically snickered.

“Why bring this up you ask? Well, first off, Codaidus is correct; it can’t be used as a weapon. But what it CAN do, is give your kingdom the means and the power to be victorious over your enemy in manners you couldn’t imagine.” Arcticerex said. He then got up from his chair and started to walk around the war room, slowly, his icy chill flavoring everywhere.

“You see, the Arcanum Tempus is a artifact, whose origins go far farther than this world’s dawn. Forged and written by Paladyne – the Aethereal God of Time, and given to the ancient Time Mage Guild for safekeeping,  its power is to open a rift into what we demons call...the Aethereal Sphere; a endless vast realm that connects billions of worlds, and this world is just one of them. But that’s not all, for the nexus also houses vast dimensional energies; energy enough to uplift your kingdom to a state that can decimate Elysium. “ He paused.

“You know that earlier monster invasion that happened in Elysium? That was just a taste of the power I speak of. Imagine what you can achieve by having the very energies of the Sphere at the tips of your fingers? I don’t think I need to explain the endless possibilities, now do I? For this to work, however, you need the book, you need someone who can translate it, and you need a powerful device that’s capable of tapping into the Sphere’s endless power. I can translate and read the book easily like any powerful mage, and development has already started on the device with my exact specifications, so that’s two of the three needs covered. Now, you just need to get that book. “

He grinned. “Starting tomorrow, the six heroes I speak of, will be accompanying a summoner and his guardian on a pilgrimage. Seeing as they were powerful enough to subvert the monster invasion from before, having them leave the kingdom leaves Elysium unguarded for its still recovering from the attack. That would be a perfect time to get the Arcanum Tempus  into your claws, as well attempt to try and kill the heroes during their journey to make your chances even greater.” The wolf demon said, yawning.

“Alright, I think I’m done. I told you my idea. Now its up to you to use it to your advantage. I’m sure I don’t need to hold everyone’s hand, now that you know. As for me, I’ll be outside, going out for a violent hunt, for I feel the need to build up some violence and flex my muscles a bit. You’ll know where to find me, or you can just give me a holler. “Arcticerex then laughed demonically turning away and walked towards the war room’s exit, before vanishing in icy vapor with the room’s coldness following suit.

~~~Elysium Kingdom – City: ~~~

In Elysium’s city grounds, Nightstar and her two companions, along with Tai and Felicity’s groups, were at the bazaar a while ago after leaving the castle. Nightstar in particular, was looking around a magic shop, while Crossfire was waiting outside, leaning against the wall near the shop, minding his own business.

The orange tiger sighed, looking at his modern wrist watch. “Typical for a girl like her...staying around shops too long and unable to make a decision. If there’s anything bad about liking girls, it’s dealing with their excessive shopping. Hopefully she comes out quick, before I bore myself to death. “

“Bored, my friend? “Crossfire rotated to see Snowforest with some bags of food and drink supplies. The white persian cat-like lion took out a can of juice and threw it softly at Crossfire, who reacted fast and caught it. “Perhaps a drink can lessen your thirst. “

Crossfire put out a claw and opened the can, taking a sip. He smirked slightly. “Yeah, you can say that again. By the time Nightstar’s lengthy shopping spree in the magic shop would be done, I would have dehydrated myself in the process. “

“So, Nightstar is still doing her thing in the shop here? I can’t say I’m surprised. Must be a pretty good shop if it took her attention so much. “Snowforest said.

“Eh, who minds? That is my mate after all and she’s with Tai and Momotaro, as well Morgana. In fact, it’s better than getting a magic frying pan bashed onto your head. “

Snowforest chuckled. “Yeah, back at the castle, it was evident that Morgana was almost ready to give you a pretty good slap, wasn’t it for Nightstar and Tai to step in and ease the situation. “

“Hey, I was only being friendly, you know? These days, girls really have no sense of humor unless they make jokes themselves and have a guy take the full brunt of it. Oh well, its not something I already don’t know, or am used to these days.  Its pretty much standard. “

“Pretty much. No worries though, Tai knows Morgana well. I’m sure she’ll loosen up along the pilgrimage. “Snowforest said relaxing.

“That’s if she doesn’t zap me into ash first. “

Both Crossfire and Snowforest chuckled as the orange tiger took another sip of his drink. Snowforest took one as well, taking his drink, while waiting on their companions to finish the gathering of their needed supplies.