Post originally by Character_Kaine Redmont

They'd been back to in the Outlands for almost a month now. Maxim had taken a look at what it had become, went into his chambers, and hadn't been seen since. In their time away the Ravenholms had taken over the Outlands. They'd grown and currently outnumbered the Redmonts 6 to 1. Odds that normally wouldn't have stopped the Redmont King, but it appeared that something was different this time. What, Kaine didn't know.

As soon as he realized that Maxim was in remission, Kaine knew that the family had the possibility of tearing itself apart. The realitively unknown Redmont, went to Maxim's door and knocked. There was no answer. He knocked again and waited. Still nothing. Finally he grabbed the handle and pushed the door open. He was greated by the sight of a small, empty stone room with another door directly across from the one he'd entered.

At first he wasn't sure what he was seeing, but then he realized that the King had an antechamber leading into his main quarters. Of course he would. It made sense now that he thought about it. Closing the door the spy walked across the room and raised his hand to knock on the other door. As his gauntlet covered fist made contact, a bright surge of power erupted from the door and slammed Kaine back across the room and into the wall.

Maxim, it appeared didn't want to be bothered. And he'd gone through the trouble to make sure that everyone who tried knew it. This presented a new clue to the puzzle, and a plan started to form in his mind. Over the next month, Kaine entered the antechamber several times a day, making sure that he was seen entering and leaving. Once the door closed, he'd mutter an incantation and his form would dissolve to mist and he'd slip out through some cracks in the stone. He'd then spend the day scouting out the Ravenholm fortress. Once Maxim was ready to resurface, the first thing he'd want to do would be to take down the Ravenholms once and for all. If Kaine could get the info needed, they'd be able to do that with great efficiency.

Near the end of the month Kaine had gathered that they were wrong about being outnumbered 6 to 1 and that it was actually more like 10 to 1. But the constant spy had a plan for that as well, and the more he thought about it the more he realized that it could work. He could take take the remaining forces of the Brood, and take down almost the entire Ravenholm fortress. With Maxim not showing any signs of doing something himself, Kaine grew bold. Surely the rest of the family had seen him entering Maxim's chambers, and even if they followed they'd think he was inside with Maxim behind the enchantments. Surely if anyone had the King's ear it was Kaine. With that thought, he sent out a memo.

"Brood,

Please join me this evening in front of our Lord's Chambers. I have commands from the King that need to be heard by all.

Kaine"

Kaine listened as the crowd outside Maxim's chambers muttered to themselves. They were all gathered and waiting for him. It was time. Kaine's tall form opened the door and stepped forth. His green robes fluttered back, revealing the constantly present lightweight armor he wore, his hood was pulled up over his face (as always) hiding his features from those before him. Truth be told even if it pulled back far enough to reveal anything he wore an armored mask as well. Never could be too carefull in his line of work.

His hands clasped before him Kaine looked out at the Brood.

"Family." He started, "The King has asked me to address you tonight, to express some...concerns...he's had. I've been his eyes and ears since he went inside to prepare for the war to come. And he is happy with what's been going on." At the blank looks from those gathered Kaine explained, "Nothing. Nothing has happened since he started preparations. He once considered some of you generals, and leaders of His Brood, but with your lack of envolvement he's started referring to each of you as his pawns."

At this the shouts began. Too many, too loud for him to hear them all. He knew it would happen, you couldn't get this many self centered people together, and tell them they're just pawns in a game and not expect this. The one question that caught his attention was "And what of you? Are you a pawn too?" It was asked sarcastically and not ment to be answered, but he did just the same.

"Me?" After a brief pause to think about it, "No, in this game, I'm the Bishop." In Mystic he'd been known as "The Unknown Redmont" it appeared that now he'd retitled himself, and he liked it.

Yelling above the others to get thier attention again, "In two nights we attack the Ravenholm Fortress. I have intelligence that there is a weak point in their defences. Two nights gives you all time to decide whether or not you're joining the campaign, or if you're traitors." With that last comment, he turned his back to the shouts and opened the door to Maxim's Antechamber. The Bishop, slammed it shut behind him and muttered his encantation. He didn't want to be there if they decided to follow. This would work. He believed it would. Was he actually following Maxim's orders? No, but he'd been one of Maxim's closest advisors, before the leap and now he thought he knew how Maxim would react to the information Kaine had. He was doing the right thing. Hopefully it didn't get him killed.

But the antechamber Kaine Redmont had sealed himself in was not entirely vacant. As soon as the room was sealed, Ainsley Redmont slid away from the wall like a chameleon changing its colors and came into view with a look of question on her face. Despite the inquisitive facade she wore, the Witch had been hanging onto the edge of her sanity this last month. She felt as if she were about to tip over the edge any minute and her rage was boiling over in unmeasureable amounts. It was all due in thanks to Lumine Ravenholm.

Ainsley could still recall the vile grin Lumine wore as she led the rest of her fleeing family through a portal. It had been written into her dreams - her nightmares - that mocking smile and she could not shake it from her being. She was not afraid of Lumine; she was feared for what he now knew. How to access Sanctuary. Ainsley felt deeply violated with his presence being even near the ancient, mystical trove that was Sanctuary. Each time that bastard let his fingers run along an object - a book, a wall, an artifact - it did not matter what it was, she felt as if he were somehow raping her and she could do nothing to stop him.

That was, until now. The Witch moved towards Kaine and looked up at his imposing, shadowed figure, yet she did not flinch. When she had studied him long enough, she titled her head towards the door of the antechamber for a brief moment where behind it, disgruntled shouts were still floating wildly in the air, humming like angry bees. Ainsley Redmont turned her gaze back towards Kaine and held it there.

"Pawns," she began, "you refer to them as pawns and place our King's name in this statement. Can you not imagine, to be referred to as mere drones for the King, where you only would insult their loyalty for Maxim? Is that all they are to Maxim Redmont, little game pieces to be pushed around for any wish he desires? No. I do not believe Maxim has told you anything of what you have proclaimed here tonight."

Ainsley turned from Kaine and paced about the room for a moment, allowing herself to quietly think and seek some solace in this dark room. Maxim had been out of touch for a long time now, when his family seemed to need him the most, yet Ainsley did not blame him for his absence. The seemingly untouchable Redmont Lord had been wounded, though no blood was visibly drawn, the mark had been deep. The mark of Ravenholm. Even Ainsley could not sense his whereabouts; Maxim's current situation was unknown. The only thing she or anyone else could fathom was that he wanted to be alone. Not even Daphne Redmont, his wife and beloved Huntress, or Jass Strata, the Temptress, could touch him.

"So, you want to play leader while Maxim is away," Ainsley began moving back to Kaine. "Is that it? Well, you need to remember something if you ever want to be half the leader Maxim was and still is. Do not treat your soldiers - no, your family - like mere pawns. If they would willingly fight for you, to die for you, treat them with the same honor you would expect someone to give you yourself, then call them to battle."

The Witch's eyes were serious, indigo orbs flickering with determination. She was open to any plans anyone else might have at the moment, so long as it did not tarnish the family's image of their still breathing King. Ainsley would not have it, and she would not have anyone leading the rest of the family without at least explaining what the plan was. To meet two nights from now, without anyone but the commander knowing the goal, was suicide.

"You will gather with myself, Daphne Redmont, and Jass Strata in the meeting room before we carry out this plan you have. You will tell us exactly what us going to happen and what ideas you have," Ainsley started her voice firm. "That is, unless you want to be going alone."

Ainsley left the antechamber holding her hands behind her back and moved through the wall, like a ghost gliding through effortlessly space. Materializing on the other side, she turned her head for a moment to the rest of the family; many had moved away from where they listened to Kaine's speech, but still a great number of them were muttering dishearteningly. Her gaze was pulled away from the people and she walked down the hall to a room which had become a temporary study. There a fire flickered and lapped playfully at the air. She moved to the window and looked out; not that far away she could see the perimeter of this land called Aleris, a new place which had become connected somehow to their own. Where was Maxim: out in Aleris or watching all of them like a fly on the wall somewhere?

Moving to the crackling fire, Ainsley reached above the mantle where there was a small burlap bag and pulled out a handful of scarlet colored sand from within it. She threw it into the fire and there was a sudden cracking sounding in the room, resembling a small burst of thunder. Ainsley looked into the flames and parted her lips to speak at it. If they were going on a mission, they would need more help than Kaine realized to take down the Ravenholms.

"Lorelei Redmont, where ever you are, come home right away," Ainsley spoke clearly. "Your assistance is needed."

The fellow "witch" had not been seen in some time since the battle, and where ever she was, Ainsley's voice was probably the last voice Lorelei expected to hear calling her home.

Post originally by Character_Lorelei Redmont


The Outlands. She had gone home, it seemed. Time passed since she left Mariska and Valorius in the other realm and settled back where she thought she belonged.

Lorelei was more of a necromancer than a witch, though now.. Now she was all but useless unless she had to use some form of hand-to-hand combat. Still stewing in private about the whole ordeal, she had pretty much all but gotten over it. It was only when she was so hungry that she had to use her own ways to get food that she got bitchy and grouchy.

Hunting the conventional way was tiring, trying, and not to mention dangerous.

Being that she was not a full fledged vampire, she wasn't as immortal as her bretheren, but she wasn't as vulnerable as a human either. So she had that going for her.

She had just come across from another realm the night or two before when she heard word of the Ravenholms. It wouldn't be the first time Lorelei had come across them, and she knew it hadn't been the last, either. It seems the pychotic dual-demon had reared his ugly head once more, and it was no longer just family they had to contest with.

Currently, Lorelei Redmont was crouched over the body -- who had probably once been a man. She sat low on his stomach, half on her knees and half on him. His clothes were soaked with blood and she dipped her hands in the open cavity of his chest and cupped her hands in the welling blood before she brought them to her face.

Like a vampire, she had to feed. On blood, flesh.. anything she could get. She was a Revenant -- a ghoul. She didn't make her own blood, so she had to get it from somewhere. And she hated this, she wished she could just be turned and get it over with. But that was the least of her worries when a voice that she was none-too-pleased to hear invaded her mind as she was feeding. All Ainsley would hear at first would be a rather feral growl before she realized what the voice was saying.

It was like trying to take a bone from a pittbull. She had been so hungry that she half went feral when she finally had the chance to hunt. Just as fast as the growl came, it died away when she sat up and rested against the man's stomach which only made the blood overflow from the chest cavity which had been hallowed out of all the organs, but she left the ribcage intact.

A small sigh parted her blood stained lips. Good hearing from you again, Ainsley. She brushed her fingers through her now bloodied hair and thought about it for a moment before she nodded. I'm on my way. Lorelei knew it was only a matter of time, and if Ainsley was asking her assistance, it was important.

Climbing off of the corpse, she headed into the bathroom to wash the blood from her body. Within the hour, she was already on the move, and she didn't need powers to find them. She could always feel her family. And it took her little time to find where Ainsley was, she was nothing if not an acurate hunter. Lifting her nose to sniff the air, she could smell the thrum of energy coming from the family Witch. Portals were her friend when it came to traveling, and even though she had no powers, she had potions and books of spells she had crafted when she did have her powers. And it helped, she would be at their stronghold by before dawn.

Aleris was new, and not so new all at the same time. She had yet to map it out to their advantage, but she knew where she needed to be, and before long she was entering the establishment only to feel more of her family than she knew was even alive.

"Honey, I'm home." She spoke in that voice that was smooth like poisoned honey. No one had seen her in some time, and the family that did notice her arrival hadn't expected it. Especially not so quickly, she was surprised to see Ainsley still in the room in which she felt the call come from. "Now, what is so dire that you of all people called me here." She had moved past the hate that she had felt for Ainsley, now she felt indifference. Numbness. She didn't care, in Lorelei's mind she was stuck in this hellish state. She might as well take advantage of it, right? She had no idea of Kaine's letter to them, nothing had reached her as of yet. But here she was, she was home and she was ready. But, ready for what?

"And what can I do to help?"

Ainsley wasted no time in explaining herself or her purpose in calling Lorelei Redmont back to the Estate of Northcrest.

"You are a soldier of the Redmont army, Lorelei - a member of our family," Ainsley began moving away from the fireplace and turning to face the Heretic. "But I must ask you to renounce the Redmont name... for a while at least."

The Witch knew how it must sound to Lorelei, only telling the girl to come home and then shed her name as Redmont. It must have seemed like a strange and bitter request - a possible punishment or exile for Lorelei again. However, despite bad blood between the two women in the past, Ainsley meant no ill harm in her words. And to prove she meant to not stir up any additional trouble between the pair of witches, her footsteps brought her quickly to the oak desk in the study. There Ainsley pulled open a drawer and reached inside for some papers. On the top written in big, black letters was the words, "The Chronicle."

"This newspaper I have is the Aleris Chronicle," Ainsley began before Lorelei could ask any questions, "As I am sure you are aware from your travels, we are now closely connected to a gate which has linked itself to the realm of Aleris."

Ainsley unfolded the newspaper over the desk and looked down at it taking her eyes away from Lorelei. She separated two pages of importance away from the newspaper and smoothed them out over the desk so that Lorelei could have a better look and skim their contents. Ainsley's fingers went to the one of the notices printed in The Chronicle and outlined the title, "A Letter To Aleris From The Ravenholm Empire."

"This was printed recently, though not by any reporter of the Aleris Chronicle. It is a warning from Leona Ravenholm, the Empress of the Outlands," Ainsley's said suddenly biting on her lower lip for a mere second, as if trying to swallow a hard lump down her throat. "It is a declaration that any people seen helping the Redmont family - Brood or Dynasty - will be considered an act of war. I can only assume that Lumine Ravenholm is serious, but that he also feels threatened at the same time by our station at the gate. He will come for us soon I am sure."

Her hand rose lightly gracing over the papers as it moved to the other article she had pulled out. Slender fingers pointed towards another bold title, which was oddly enough, positioned in the employment ads of the Aleris Chronicle. Most of the postings were printed small, but in the middle of the page a section stood out in bigger letters describing the recent addition of something called "The Alerian Tribunal." Here Ainsley's finger stopped again.

"Here is where I would like you to come in, Lorelei," Ainsley said tapping her finger on one of the listed government positions. "There is an opening for the Minister of Defense in Aleris. This would be a great opportunity for you to scout for us... See if you can secretly rally forces from Aleris to our aid without rousing the suspicion of Lumine Ravenholm. Being in position of the Minister of Defense could put some leverage on our side, but we must not have Aleris at risk for our own personal gain. Also, Maxim is out there somewhere and you would be an extra set of eyes to assist in finding him.

One way or another, Lumine will start a war with the Redmont family, and honestly, our numbers are severely crippled right now."

Ainsley's hand was lifted from the paper and she brought it up to rub her temples for a moment as if in thought. Her posture straightened as she leaned away from the desk and she let out a very, faint sigh. The memory of Lumine still burned in her mind, fresh and mocking, and it had caused her a severe lack of rest. She was tired, but more than anything, the Witch wanted to spill Lumine's blood all across the Outlands for his act of violation.

"There are many people, both family and enemies, who would believe you are still dead... as not many have seen you recently. This puts you in a better position than most of us to campaign for the Minister of Defense," Ainsley said finally returning her eyes to Lorelei. "However, like I said, this would require you to drop our family name for some time and possibly change your appearance. If you are you willing to accept this task, in return I would give you your powers back in the future..."

Post originally by Character_Lorelei Redmont


"For a while?" Lorelei looked at Ainsley like she had grown another head. "Until when, exactly? Until someone kills me? I mean really...I do what I'm told to do, I fight for people I don't necessarily like and this is what I get?" Surprisingly, the rhaspy voice of the Redmont necromancer didn't raise above a hoarse tone, but ther affliction in her words could kill.

To say that she was shocked.. Well, she'd be lying.

Really, Lorelei figured something like this would happen. In some way, shape or form. But even so, she couldn't help herself and a bubble of laughter parted her lips as her head hung slightly, allowing her touseled hair to hide her features.

Lorelei couldn't help but feel as if she had turned into a scapegoat or stepped into a trap or something of the like. She was never really a well liked member of the family. But, she was loyal and she fought hard and fought with anyone she was told to. She had gone home once the issues in the other realm had been taken care of and Deanna did what she had to do. It was just too much for her to handle, so she went home and off the radar for awhile.

With a morbid amusement, she watched Ainsley move across the room and pull out a book. Oh, she was going to be shown something. Goody.

Lorelei was new to this whole concept of being in Aleris. She didn't have an opinion yet, but as Ainsley spoke, she allowed her laughter and her befuddled amusement to die down. She wasn't given any opportunity to comment or question what Ainsley's motives were, and boy did she want to. But, she allowed the other witch to speak and she listened like the good little pawn that she was.

"So I've heard." Was all she said. It was true, that she knew that they were connected to the gate that seperated the Outlands to Aleris itself. She also knew that Lumine had forces there. How? Because she managed to skirt around them without notice.

With her arms crossed over her chest, her fingers gripped each bicept as she watched Ainsley with great interest. When the paper was smoothed out, she pushed away from where she was standing and heavy bootfalls brought her to the desk. She was being motioned to two seperate pages, one was in rather bold lettering. Letting her stormy gaze take in the letter, there was a slight snort before she spoke. "I am aware of the Ravenholm's presence. I have encountered Lumine in the other realm." She turned her eyes up to look at Ainsley. "So basically, we're screwed. Is that what you're saying?" She let the question hang as she read through the letter again. Hearing Ainsley say that this Leona was the Empress of the Outlands was amusing and she couldn't help the smart assed smirk from crossing her lips. "If it's not one thing, it's something else. We're always going to be at war, Ainsley. If it's not the Ravenholms, it's Maxim himself. If it's not him, it'll be something else. Really--" she was cut off when she saw the heading that Ainsley pointed to.

Taking in what was being said, Lorelei brought up a hand to pinch the bridge of her nose as she sighed. "If this Leona chick has posted the declaration, moving any soldiers to us would be suspicious. But, I suppose it could be done. However, do we have that kind of time? And think realistically here. Lumine knows what I look like, it's not exactly like I can hide in plain sight right now." Which was true. While she had some minor powers, attached to the fact that she had potions and such to help her, she wasn't able to glamour herself or anyone else into thinking she wasn't Lorelei Redmont.

"Precisely. He would kill us all, sadly. Our numbers, as you said, are greatly dwindled and those here would not be strong enough -- or trained enough to fight Lumine. He's stronger than you give him credit for, Ainsley. Trust me on that."

It seemed that all of this was more unsettling for Ainsley than it was for Lorelei. Lorelei found this all too amusing that she was being chosen for something like this when most of the time, she thought they would like nothing more than to erase her completely. However, she was more use to the Redmonts alive than dead. Most of the time, anyway.

Ainsley spoke again, and Lorelei gave her her attention once more. "Yeah, I dropped off the radar for a reason, Ainsley. What happened a few months ago left me not wanting to be seen for awhile." Deanna had become someone she could trust, even though they had a rocky start. Lorelei was nothing if not loyal and the shifter had earned her respect. "Even if they believe me dead, something wuold have to change. I'm easily recgonizable. Especially to Lumine..." Lorelei sighed and shook her head as she turned her gaze away. Her family was her life, and even though she disliked a great number of them for the stupid choices they made, they were still her family and she was still loyal to the cause. She had to be.

Though, the last thing Ainsley said caused her attention to snap fully onto her and her eyes narrowed just slightly. Lorelei had not forgotten that it was Ainsley that had ripped her powers from her. Rather unfairly, Lorelei thought, but it happened none the less. But she supposed in the end, she was better for it. Lorelei was stronger now than she had been with powers, and if Ainsley kept her word.. She could be even stronger still when the powers were restored to her.

A thought crossed her mind. This was a bribe, and Ainsley knew she wouldn't turn it down. Especially with her powers hanging in the balence. "Tricky, Ainsley. Very, tricky." Lorelei was impressed, she'd admit it.

Letting a long moment pass as she thought about this. She didn't think Ainsley thought of how dangerous this could be for Lorelei. Being that two of the strongest females in the family were standing in the room, she knew she could handle it. But did she want to?

In a simple answer. Yes.

Why? Well, obviously the reward was a nice incentive to it. "There is no 'possibility' about it. I cannot look the way I do and get away with it. Like I said, Lumine knows what I look like. It would never work. I would need a complete overhaul, and that is something I cannot do on my own." Lorelei paused a moment, "What do you suggest? Both name and appearance wise? Since I will be needing your assistance on this. And do you plan on letting the family in on this plan of yours?" She spoke and then something came to her, her hand reached out and she pointed to a part of the article about the Tribunal.

"You forgot to mention that this position is voted in. How do you suppose you'll ensure that I even get this position? Do you have any other aces up your sleeve?" She had hoped that Ainsley had thought this through before dragging Lorelei into it. "I will need proof of my eligibility for this position and papers stating who I am. This will take a lot of work. On everyone's part. I hope you took that into consiteration when you thought of this, Ainsley." She stated, her mood shifting to determined.

"I'll do it. I just hope you know what you're doing." Lorelei looked at her and shook her head. Why did she subject her to this kind of thing? Did they ever really even appreciate it? Oh well, in the end, she would get what she had been wanting for a very long time.

And Lumine would be taken down.

All in all, she counted it as a win. For now.

War was all around but then that was nothing new. To be a redmont you must have been born into this world of blood, revenge and the constant change that blew in the wind. Which is probably why she was rarely seen, no one ever seemed to notice the Widow's presence. Always just below the radar it was probably fabled she didn't even exist, which often worked in her own way.

Following in cousin Nimeni's example alot of the time she was silent with how she went about things. Striking where most wouldn't expect, and vanishing without a trace of her very presence in the first place. Once ordered to hunt and find that of that foolish bluefield wolf, she'd watched from a distance as disease had claimed her prize. Now that sort of annoyed her but he was dead, that's all that mattered to her at least.

When Maxim had split into two in Mystra, she'd gone on a hunt to put to rest a ghost of her own. The traitorous Jamison to the redmonts. He whom had betrayed them , her and her parents to the vampires and werewolves so long ago. With the chaos the others were going through, having gone home at one point even to offer assistance and not been needed. She figured no one would notice the widow's absense even now. It was jamison that turned the tide on her as she followed him to an abandoned stretch of road where a large stone archway stood.

"Do you remember the time I taught you how to dance and laugh and be a lady, Cassandra?" His voice resonated from the fog and dim.

"No." Came the clipped response from high above.

Not suprised with one another, they seemed to be waiting although patience was never a strong point for either. The archway had a strange glow as Jamison finally stepped from the fog and seemed to say something from an ancient book. "Becoming a pastor to repent before death, Jamison." She asked as her twin swords were pulled from their scabards and she posed for a final strike to him to end her own personal nightmare.

Laughter resonated from down below at her words but he replied with a simple no. "No, I'm going to turn back time and recreate something wonderful. " His voice seemed almost as though he were in a trance as slowly a portal formed, showing a brilliantly almost lush forest that reminded her of home, before Jamison had destroyed it all.

"That's impossible!" She gasped still she leapt down her swords impaling his shoulders and her foot aimed for his back. A swirl of forest green cloak that settled torn and tattered from years of wearing it. "It's not impossible, it's just the beginning.." Jamison roared up suddenly his fangs bared as he spun renching the blades from his shoulders and she stood on the defense for the moment.

"I'm going to create a new world, where I can have what should have been mine. Where I am the one that is to be feared, not like you. Redmont." He spat the word as he lashed for her face with claws. An action that she met with a swift thrust of her blades up to jolt his wrists to the side. There was something about him that burned through her mind.

The portal glowed, swirling around the edges as he slowly used the dance of weapons and feral defense to move closer to it. "Just think Cass, you could have been a lady." He taunted as his arm shot back form her thrust then a dagger was hurled that she shifted to the side to dodge. "There's nothing to think about Jamison." Her words were icy at best.

Spinning her blades arched high and one arched low giving little to no space to stop it save her feet although with teh twin blades it was hard to get near those at the moment. The blades hitting flesh and bone to where the vampire howled. "Damn it." And lept back near the edge of the portal.

Stopping she charged the swords held at different heights, one for his throat to sever, one for his heart to impale. Blond tresses cut short as always pulled back speckled with the spray of blood as he fell into the portal, and so did she.. The portal seemed to glow then flicker out. Her eyes went wide as she lay atop Jamison with her swords buried within flesh, his dagger impaling her own side through her armor.

"What the hell have you done!" She screamed out to his laughing face, it was his laughter that she heard as the rattle of death claimed him. Taking with him, all clue as to where she was, all clue to how and where she why he'd brought himself and now her there. Searching for the book, the flickering portal showed it on the ground, dropped. She reached for it and felt nothing but cold stone... "This can't be. "

The sound of horses in the distance stirred her from her almost shocked melancholy as she suddenly drew her blades and with the elegant grace of a spider all but flew up a tree. Hiding within it's billowy branches the crimson blood from the vampire spread the gorund, her. The green cloak blending into the leaves as she heard the steps approach. A man knelt examining the deceased man and then spit on him.

"He's a Redmont.. Good riddence. The Emporer's man whom said magic had entered this area had been right. There is the remnants of a portal here. A redmont tried to break in. Report to the Ravenholm, a redmont entered, and something or one killed them instantly. Wait... tell him... I killed him." He went to claim the credit. No one else seemed to be there so he drew his blade along Jamison's neck severing it. Might as well dirty one's own blade if one was to become a ready made hero.

Cold eyes glittered from in the trees as she reined in her temper quickly. Remembering he spoke of Ravenholms and Redmonts being dead. She noticed then that jamison still wore the symbol of the Redmont guard that he once served. One she had herself under that cloak of hers. Now however was the question of finding out what the hell...

From the trees she followed the horsebound riders back towards the outlands. But there were redmont banners, instead the mark of the Ravenholms flew high. The city in the distance made her blanche. This was not home and yet it was causing a very serious problem in her that she'd definately dislike.

It was 100 years before the others would arrive to this land, she watched armies grow, staying to the outside of things, in her trees. With luck she would stay out of the radars as she did at home. Over the years gathering documents left out stupidly, gathering anything she could that might prove useful in this campaign that the Ravenholms now had.

She'd seen Lumine once or twice but from her position it was likely he'd never seen her. The trees, the shadows, the shadowy cobwebbed rafters and belfrys. Anything that would allow her unique talents to be employed to learn before caught. The armies, the Dreadstorms and then the wench they called Empress. She sighed and rubbed he temples as she reminded her of a bad wanna be Lady Eleanor.

That aside, even she was oblivious to the fact that Eleanor, her once only friend growing up ahd returned and was with the family. Nanna to her but those days were dead and gone as she stood one night silent on a shadowed church steeple. "Dear god, what are we going to do now." She watched the gathering armies and their power grow.

It was then she felt something, a sensation that came when she encountered something, someone she knew. A shadowy male joined her and met her blade to her neck. Her face went white as they stood there blade to blade. "You're dead................" She stammered her eyes wide but still strongly on guard. This was not a good place for that.

"Death is only a doorway, Like the new world, Cass?" He asked his voice nothing more then a whisper. She dove off the rooftop, willowy webs caressed a stone cold archway allowing her to swing and land to safety before she charged for the forest where her horse was hidden well.

No answer was given as she'd seen the marking that now rested on the lich's uniform. He'd joined with Ravenholms army, it was likely. They now knew they had a spying spider observing things. What's more, the spider was a Redmont at that. Retreating was best so not be discovered but it still pissed her the fuck off.

It had been years, so many years now, and she'd thought that he'd died truely only to haunt her again.. Words spread that the gateway had opened, that the Empress spread words that any that helped Redmonts were doing an act of treason and war. It was time to return home well to the family at least.

A shadowy man had been noticed one night, whom he was she didn't bother to discover. For the moment she retreated back to the lands that were rumored where the Redmonts had started gathering. It was there, the Widow reappeared. From a wall, she walked over the archways, past the guards slowly well it was hard to notice a silent spider in the night. It wasn't until she dropped to the ground near the main building where she heard voices. A guard approached her and met her blade.

"I'm the Widow. A cousin of the Redmonts by the name of Cassandra. I wish to report in." She glared daring him to deny her access instead he announced her presence through to door to allow whomever was in the main building, to deny her or allow her entrance.

Post originally by Character_Alastair Bluefield

"I had almost given up on them. For their sake... I wish they hadn't shown up."

Her voice was soft, tinged by soft disappointment that was kept fleeting, especially in front of her guards. She wasn't sure which of her guards were actually her guards, and which of them were far more loyal to the Ravenholm regime. Time had been kind to Alasiah Bluefield, giving her the opportunity to study, broaden her once-narrow mind, and learn to forgive old grudges. The long, hard road to something close to sanity had been rough on her, though secretly, she imagined it had something to do with seeing the world from the perspective of a woman, rather than a man. It was honestly hard to believe by that point that she, the appointed Governess of Navidium and the third highest-ranking officer of the Armed Forces of the Ravenholm Empire had once been the cowardly beast known by the name of Alastair Bluefield, the same bastard who had resorted to treachery and other horrific tactics in hopes of stunning his opponents in order to destroy them.

Those memories, most of which were degraded by the millennia, were a disgusting reminder of what she had once been. Even Lumine knew that she hated the person that she had been -- only once had he attempted to use her original name, or mention her past. She had threatened to resign and let him have his precious empire, and her love for honor and diplomacy was part of the reason that neither Emperor Lumine nor Empress Leona dared allow her to leave their side. Even though they held severe loyalty, Governess Alasiah was incredibly popular with both the Navidians and the rebellious factions on the north-eastern continent. No, they couldn't afford to lose her -- and so both the Emperor and Empress had promised they wouldn't even mention the name of Alastair Bluefield or his deeds, ever again.

She eventually let gentle eyes of sparkling cerulean drift over the report that had been sent to her from Augustgrad, along with a copy of the letter that had been sent to Aleris by Leona. "Subtle, very subtle. Tactless bitch; all she'll do is warrant a threatening reply from King Alerion or one of his subordinates. Lumine should keep a tighter hold on her leash," she scoffed, with a light sigh. A frown curved plush, mauve-colored lips as she ran slender fingers back through striking locks of stark red hair; another trait of the Bluefield beauty that made her almost impossible not to recognize. Even on the battlefield, it was hard to miss those fiery tresses, sparkling eyes and friendly smile, not to mention the pair of rune-engraved revolvers she wore. "It may yet be up to me, to end this without much bloodshed on either side. The Emperor may concede that some of you are expendable," she paused, tipping her head in a slight nod towards one of the guards, who paled considerably, "but I do not. This realm has seen enough war; hopefully if Maxim refuses to listen to reason, the women he loves won't." She turned away, tossing the copy of Leona's ultimatum into the trash with a disdainful smirk, before retreating to her private chambers; the royal manor of Navidium had been refined over the centuries, and were an exquisite mix of technology, beauty, and magic.

Some even argued that Navidium was far more beautiful than Augustgrad, if only because of Alasiah's love of functional beauty.

The doors were locked behind her, and she eventually slid into the seat by her desk, a delicate frown marring her normally serene features. She wasted only a few more minutes, before lifting a pen and setting about writing a far more pleasant letter than the Empress' offensive threat to Aleris.

To Daphne Redmont, Isabella Redmont, Jass Strata, or Ainsley Redmont...

I send this letter on behalf of the Ravenholm Empire, as a gesture of good faith. While we're all aware that the Redmonts and McKennah families have grudges to hold against both the Ravenholm and Bluefield names, I ask that you put aside these feelings of ill will to consider what is best for both your respected families, and our brave soldiers.

My name is Alasiah Bluefield, Governess of Navidium. I currently serve the Ravenholm Empire as both Governess of this fine city, and a general of their armed forces; I can assure you as of this letter, whatever intelligence you've collected up to this point doesn't amount to half of what our standing forces have. This isn't a show of bravado, either. I'm well aware of the considerable, and mighty prowess of your families, and I know that even with a nearly assured victory, we would pay an unacceptably high price in both casualties and the loss of technology. Though in the end, the decision is not up to me, I would ask that you all speak to King Maxim Redmont on my behalf, please. This land has seen war. I have seen war, and you have seen war. Is it not enough? Daphne, can we lay the guns down and cast our hatred aside? Jass, do you not tire of the fighting as I have over these last few long centuries? Ainsley, do you still feel the cost of war is worth the last stand you and your family would face?

I knew all of you, once upon a time. It matters not how, but know that I send this letter out of both guilt and shame, for I wronged many of you and have a debt to repay. Please consider accepting my offer to meet, and negotiate some kind of truce, for the benefit of both sides.

It's time to lay all our grudges to rest. If not for those we care about, then for the sake of our own heavy hearts.

Sincerely,

-A. Bluefield, Governess of Navidium
Silver General of the Ravenholm Empire

When the letter was completed, Alasiah leaned back and rubbed her fingers against her temples with a light sigh. The next task was slightly easier; she knew who she could send to the temporary base of the apparently-united Redmont family, but if he didn't return (which was entirely possible, given the 'kill first, and don't even bother with questions' nature that some Redmonts had), then it would almost certainly kick-start the first conflict in what would be a long, destructive war. She rose from her chair and opted to change then, letting the animal in her surface; whereas once she had possessed the somewhat disgusting characteristics of a hyena, she was far more sleek at that point. The were-fox sauntered through the doors of her chambers, the silk of her night-gown barely torn from the change of her admittedly beautiful shape. It didn't take her long to locate the guards that she had in mind; at nearly seven feet in beast-mode, she still towered over both armored men.

"Gavin, Fain... I apologize for the late shifts you've been working lately, but I prefer the two of you here, where you can serve as my eyes and ears. However, I have a special assignment for both of you... as well as the promotion required to allow you to leave. Are both of you ready for the next step in your career?" Her voice was soft, and despite her magnificently beautiful -- and frighteningly feral -- form, neither soldier was afraid. "We are, Governess. What's the assignment? Name it, and we shall gladly complete it for you," Gavin answered. The armor they wore was similar to what a crusader knight would've worn, but lighter to keep up with the change in technology; runes were engraved across the ballistic-proof torso of their suits, along with the sigil of the Ravenholm Empire. Their helms were sleek and flawless, with a single slit of black glass -- though one couldn't see in, the soldiers could see perfectly, and the enchantment upon the helm would allow them to spot targets easier. Likewise, a shield was strapped to their left arms to protect against both blades and projectile fire; it too, bore the imperial insignia. They carried two weapons, both standard-issue for basic-ranking Army personnel. The first was a cavalry sword, enchanted and tempered with techniques that had evolved over time in accordance with technology. The second, was a ten-shot revolver of average-caliber, enchanted so that the rounds were made to fragment upon connecting with a target.

"Excellent. I knew I could count on both of you. Corporal Gavin Firebrand, and Sergeant Zain Firebrand, for this assignment, you are hereby promoted to the next rank within the Armed Forces of the Ravenholm Empire, to better serve our mighty Emperor and," she paused, trying not to allow her disgust with Leona show (not that it would've mattered, as the brothers were fiercely loyal to her), "and his beloved Empress. Congratulations, Sergeant Gavin Firebrand and Master Sergeant Zain Firebrand. Doubtlessly, you've heard the reports of the rebellion that is rumored to be spreading in the north-eastern continent, instigated by the fabled Redmont Bloodline?" She paused; education in the Outlands scarcely mentioned the Redmonts or their McKennah allies, except to boast about how the Ravenholms and their Bluefield allies were so much more. The brothers surprised her, as they had before on numerous occasions. "We have. But... we've heard from Mother and Father that the Redmonts have actually protected them, and tried to convince the rebellious fanatics there not to associate with them. They hardly sound like the dishonorable cowards that Imperial education teaches us they are, Governess; please forgive our opinions," Zain replied. She smiled slightly, and shook her head as her tail lazily swished around behind her. "An apology isn't necessary, Master Sergeant. The Redmonts, if they've not changed from what I remember... are fierce, but noble warriors who believe in honor and respect, no matter how brutal and blood-thirsty they may be. It may be difficult to believe... but nevertheless, I want to try and negotiate with them to save not only our brothers and sisters of the Outlands, but their family and friends as well. Surely, even they may have grown weary of war. Take this letter, and return home; do not wear the colors and armor of the Ravenholm Empire, gentlemen. Deliver the letter to one of four people, and only those four. The Queen of the Redmont Bloodline, Daphne McKennah Redmont; the Temptress herself, Jass Strata; or the siblings of their King, Ainsley Redmont and Isabella Redmont." "Forgive us for the question, but why not deliver the letter to the King Redmont, then?" Gavin inquired, his voice distorted by the helm he wore.

"It's a long story, Gavin. I don't know if Maxim Redmont has regained his sanity, or if he even resides with them now. Fate has been cruel not only to him, but to his family; I would prefer that the women who are closest to him have a chance to see my wishes are genuine. Daphne Redmont and Jass Strata are excellent judges of character; I don't think they'll believe I'm so dishonorable as to try something treacherous. Deliver the letter, but do not stay -- and when your task is accomplished, you're permitted three weeks of leave, to spend with your family. Take care, soldiers, and may the grace of the Empire keep you both safe," Alasiah finished stating her orders, before briskly saluting both soldiers. They returned the gesture, then about-faced and left her there, standing in that empty corridor with only the pale light of the moon to illuminate the soft, fiery red fur that covered the shapely curves of her body.

"Daphne, Jass... I hope you're both still there, alive... you may be the only chance we have to save our families and soldiers," she whispered, a faint sigh echoing in that hall as she returned to the quiet privacy of her room.

And not for the first time, Governess Alasiah Bluefield found herself wishing for forgiveness for what she had done in that past life.

Ainsley had kept her composure all throughout Lorelei's whining, expecting the Heretic's reaction to be as such. The Witch had hoped she had explained it in a way that Lorelei would feel useful, but somehow she had made it seem like it was more of a bribe. Perhaps in some ways the task ahead could have been seen that way, but Lorelei did not grasp the concept that she ultimately did have a choice in the matter and so Ainsley parted her lips to speak.

"Lorelei Redmont," Ainsley started, "I have been connected to this world far longer than almost any other Redmont alive and I have seen our family fight both honorable and dishonorable. I have watched as our family was subjected to countless wars, both laid by the hands of our enemies and ourselves. What on this forsaken earth makes you think that I am not aware this is not the last war we will be involved with?"

Her shoulders lifted in an elegant shrug and she let out a small laugh, turning from the newspaper clippings she had gathered across the desk. Ainsley would let Lorelei read them if she wanted to soak in more information, but right now it was as if she didn't even want to hear much of want Ainsley had in store for her, let alone ingest the possibility that Lorelei might have been given a task that was much more important than a mere soldier's role in battle.

"I had asked YOU to perform this duty, to go in disguise and campaign for the position of Minister of Defense in Aleris because I figured you would be smart enough to NOT get caught. I cannot tell you what to do every minute of the day, if you would accept this job. I am only asking you to assist in strengthening our forces by help of the Alerian Army without drawing suspicion," Ainsley said. "However, if you are feeling like you are less than capable, I will find someone who is more willing to make sacrifices for this family."

Something in Lorelei's words suddenly made Ainsley twitch; a nerve had been struck and Ainsley sucked in breath. She turned back to Lorelei, but the look in her indigo eyes was wrathful, shimmering with intensity. Ainsley's hand fell down upon the desk and her slender fingers grasped onto the oak piece of furniture; involuntarily, underneath her palm to wood started to burn.

"If you make the mistake of saying I do not know my enemies, you will find yourself removed from this family and not by your own choice of shedding the name Redmont," Ainsley hissed. "I am aware of how well prepared Lumine Ravenholm and Christopher Redmont are and what type of mind they share. I have known these vile men years before you were even born into this world. I am not so foolish that I would let my own flesh and blood be thrown into a useless battle without carefully studying the enemy first. I made that mistake once, and I have made it a point in my life not to do the same thing twice. Do not judge me for some rookie mercenary ever again."

For a moment, Ainsley stood in the study without moving, her hand still pressed tightly against the desk. Her attention then turned to the window, leaving an acidic burning smell in the air once her hand moved away. Her thoughts dwindled, deciding on whether or not she could count on Lorelei to do this for her. In the end, Ainsley assumed the Heretic would cave in, bound by honor more than bound by a bride. Ainsley actually had that much confidence in the young Witch that she could do this successfully, but Lorelei also let her ego get in the way one too many times.

Her breath was drawn from her again in an almost tired sigh and she turned back to Lorelei. It seemed at long last the girl was giving in and somewhat willing to do the task, though it was not without complaint and more questioning of Ainsley's motives. Ainsley rubbed at her temples and moved back to the articles that were sprawled across the desk.

"Campaigning is not even the difficult part," Ainsley said the venomous hiss now removed from her voice. "These positions are open to anyone with military or fighting experience; all you have to do is gain the trust of the Alerian citizens and show them that you are willing to protect their dear realm no matter what. Register yourself as a citizen; it is absolutely free and you can attempt for any position within the Aleris job system."

Ainsley moved and gazed into Lorelei's eyes, a flicker of a smile gracing her lips as if she were eyeing up the girl like a hungry predator. "You can take any name you wish if you would like to campaign for the Minister of Defense. Obviously, nothing that would link you to our family. No one else should know about this, besides me or you, as people get restless and words may slip," Ainsley nodded. "And as for the appearance... well, I can help with that."

The Witch moved towards the door of the study and opened it slightly. Ainsley poked her head outside and took notice that the halls were clear. No one moved about and they were dark enough that the two women would not be seen travelling down the shadowed halls. Ainsley moved half of her body out the door and then looked back towards Lorelei briefly, curling a finger in her direction and motioning her to follow.

"Remember this, Lorelei," Ainsley started. "No matter what you are doing, secretly or fighting on the sidelines, you will always die a Redmont. You have a choice to either play the more important role that I have given you and prove your worth to everyone in the end, or to fight mindlessly as you always have. If you have made up your mind and trust me, then follow along. Otherwise, I do not have much more time to waste trying to convince you."

And with that, Ainsley Redmont slipped away from the door proceeding down the hallway almost soundlessly. Her footsteps carried her away from the study and to the start of a new and in-construction version of Sanctuary. The one in the Northpoint was now inaccessible due to Lumine, but she would make use of this new temple and it would all start with the transformation of Lorelei Redmont.

Post originally by Character_Lorelei Redmont


"Whoa, whoa Ainsley. Slow down.." She held her hands up. "I plan on doing this."

Lorelei wasn't whining. They were logical objections, but in the end she caved like she knew Ainsley expected her to. Being useful was better than not, especially in their family where those with no purpose were oft used as cannon fodder.

When Ainsley spoke about what she had seen in her life, Lorelei tuned her out in favor of drawing up a mental plan as to how she was going to complete this task so gracefully shoved at her. It was a lot to take in, but once everything sank to reality, she was okay with it. Anyway, really, did she have a choice? Not really.

"I am smart enough not to get caught, Ainsley." She half heartedly murmured her responce to the woman as she pushed into motion and rounded the desk where she opened the drawe and pulled a piece of parchment and a pen. "I'm not a child you have to direct, I've been on my own for a very long time. I don't need a babysitter. They were logical questions and concerns, that's all. I accepted the task and I have every intention of seeing it through."

Turning those stormy eyes up when she heard the inhale of breath Ainsley drew in, a brow perked and a slow grin curled across her lips. Ah, here came the threats, "I know you are no rookie mercenary, Ainsley. Nor do I doubt your power. But like you, I have seen what he is capible of now. He is stronger than I ever remember him being. That is what I meant. I meant no harm to you or to make you seem as if you know not what you're doing. I trust your judgements and orders like they come from Maxim himself. I wouldn't dare question your authority." There was a sincerety in her voice when she spoke. The two women had different powers, at least in part.

"Well then, when the preperations are complete, I will make sure I do that first." She jotted something down on the paper. "And Ainsley, it's not that I don't trust you or what you want to accomplish in this. Because I do, and I'm honored you came to me about this. It's been a trying few months and I'm a little on edge, so I apologize." If this was going to work, the women were going to have to get along, it was that simple. "You want the best for this family and its success in this war, I understand that, and I admire that. Especially now." She spoke of those of the blood who did nothing to help their cause. Reaching up, she brushed her fingers back through her hair before turning her attention upon Ainsley once more.

This had appeal to it, and it caused Lorelei's curiousity to pique and nodding her head, she sensed that look Ainsley was giving her. "We'll figure that out after everything is said and done." She folded up the paper and slipped it into her pocket before pushing into motion and following Ainsley.

"You had me at the getgo. There's no way I would turn this down." She had wanted to prove her worth for some time, but that task is difficult when you feel worthless. Powerless.. It sucked, a lot and Lorelei knew that this could be the way to turn it all around. She wanted this chance to prove herself.

"So, what do you have in mind?" She followed the other woman down the hall, her ever changing gaze trailing around as if making sure that they were not being spied or followed. Even in ones own family, there were few that could be trusted.

"Thank you for this opportunity." That was likely as gracious a statement as Lorelei would make. Ever. And it showed in her voice. She was grateful, but hell be damned if she would show anyone that side of her.