Thread: Ascension to the Heavens|Descent into Hell(Corsair and Xana)

It didnt take as long to reach the mountain this time, as it had last time. Clara suspected her dragon form had grown larger in the twelve years since she had last used it, but there wasnt a good basis of comparison for her to know for certain. All she had now was the impression of the open balcony having shrunk, since she last tried landing upon. Still plenty large enough for her needs, setting down on the stone. She shifted and contracted as her feet touched down, still far more comfortable in her human form that her draconic one. A touch resentful as well, perhaps. Not interested in indulging Verriers ego in the moment. Dressed in a deep blue gown, Clara adorned herself with golden spaulders and neck guard. A matching, molded breast plate and belt made up the dress, complete with lace up golden sandals. Afodisias symbol, the helm and the spear, were imprinted on the mock armor, too fine to provide any real protection. It accentuated her womanly attributes, without relinquishing her warriors pride. Somehow, she was not surprised to find Verrier still wearing dragon scales and fangs. My lord, she acknowledged, without a curtsy or any other act of submission. He thinks her a Goddess? Since when does a Goddess bow before a dragon? It has been twelve years, since last I returned to Farefaeora. Lily tried not to glare as the demon lord approached the table, inviting himself to join them. He spoke of their father, and it was a jarring reminder of his history. The things he had done, before either her or her brother had been born, the terrible legacy of his deeds as Matthias the Traitor. Our father? She asked, hazel eyes not wavering from the demon. Furtan smiled at her, an approximation of friendly, but full of razor fangs. Matthias the Redeemed. You favor him, Furtan filled in, demonstrating his knowledge, I met him before either of you were born, before he was The Redeemed. When you mother was just the Slayer of Torment, not yet the Slayer of Lust. Your father taught me a valuable lesson when he was here. And that was? Anja asked, cutting her meatballs into smaller and smaller pieces. The power of redemption, and love, Furtan said matter-of-factly, picking up a meat and drenching it in the sauce. I once ruled my domain with strength, and fear. And it was a mere shadow of the township you see here today. My people were meek, meager, dwindling. There was no loyalty among them, just the barest obedience to preserve their life. The demon plopped the morsel in his mouth, not flinching in the slightest from the spice. And now I strive towards redemption. Not just myself either. After the fall of the courts of Torment and Lust, there were many a demon with nothing left. No masters to serve, no purpose in this life. Exiled from the heavens for our rebellion. I welcomed them into my realm, to seek a path back into the graces of the gods. Because, we forgot the service the Gods entreated us with, we must relearn it with the humans. Andthats the point of all this? Eva asked, masking some of the skepticism in her voice. Not interested in antagonizing the demon. Even as he tried to down play it, they could all sense there was power in his form. None of them had any experience fighting something as strong as him. The only demons most of them had fought were peons, things that were more hungry than truly malicious. Why of course, Furtan insisted, Since I have devoted myself to the betterment of my people, their loyalty and dedication has increased one hundred-fold! This town has become a beacon, for both humans and demons, looking to reinvent themselves. Any, looking for a fresh start, looking for hope in the remains of the demonlords fall. And perhaps, one day I two will feel the embrace of the divine, and be called home, once more. Furtan stood from the table at that, I do hope you all will just us at the baptismal tonight. Even if you decline to participate, just to witness the mutual benefit of the arrangement I have with my human populace. It is inspired by what I recall of the Lady of Love and Wars religious ceremonies, though I would welcome any input her pious believers could impart.