Mistaken Destinations! (zenke, Orgoth)

Rex sat on the back of a wagon, legs dangling off the edge. He was wearing the black with silver trim version of his nobility clothes, but it was looser and easier to move in than his white with gold trim version, and he had his sword on his back. His scythe had gotten damaged, and was in his bag, fully extended with the top section and bottom section actually separated. Though not completely, the chain keeping them connected was all messed up...it would take a hell of a blacksmith to fix it. He got roped into helping out a small, four wagon caravan, escorting it through the free lands. He didn't ask where they were going, just that they needed help getting there. And so he offered.

"There it is. That's where we're heading, boyo." Rex travelled to the front through the wagon's narrow path inside and peaked out the front. To see a huge, walled city that was fortified. There was no way a direct assault would move this beast of a city. "That's...impressive. What is it?" The young Asentari couldn't hide his sense of awe of the place. The man chuckled. "This is Mith Silvanus, capital of the Kingdom of Mondolin!" It took a few minutes for what the guy had said to register in Rex's mind. And a loud "EEEEEHHHHHHHH!!!" could be heard through out the surrounding area.

Inside the fortress city, Rex looked very pale, but was given some coins for the escort, and directions to the best blacksmith in the city to take his scythe. He wasn't even sure if he was allowed in here! None the less, he explored the city as he followed the directions, thanking the gods that his eyes were hard to see that they were Asentari eyes. The sights and sounds were even more impressive. Eapara was busy, sure, but it paled in comparison to this. He found the place, Toral. That name sounded vaguely familiar, and he didn't know why. Walking in, his huge white bag slung behind him with his left hand holding onto the draw strings, he looked around. Place was empty of people...but it was clear that the armor and few weapons were very high quality.

He went to the counter and rang the bell. He looked sort of like a fish out of water, but that was more out of nerves than anything.

Lilian was in the back workshop making calibrations to her crossbow, her brown hair tied back. She wore a light leather jerkin that extended below the waist, and light pants, and leather boots beneath. The jerkin was nessassary in the workshop to ovoid burns from flying sparks. Lilian was just about finished when she heard the bell out front, and went to investigate, since Lukas wasn't home and her father was most definitely up to something in the far back of the workshop.

Lilian went out the front, where she found a young man who appeared to be no older than her with a large bag. He wore expensive looking clothing, with a longsword across your back. Lilian quickly scanned him up and down as she removed the jerkin and hung it up, reaving a short sleeved shirt underneath, allowing the cool air of the shop front to settle on her skin. It was hot back there, even with the cooling enchantments she'd placed around the room and the special air vents her father had built.

"Hi there!" she said, waving with her enchanted metal arm reflexively. "Welcome to Torals, best blacksmith and enchantment workshop in the city. How can I help?" She asked him, meeting his gaze with a soft smile. He was quite a handsome young man, but there was something about his eyes that made her linger on them as she waited for his reply.

Andreas Toral pushed his goggles up and mopped sweat from his brow. He was buried away at the back of his workshop, working on a gizmo that sprung into his mind over breakfast. It had been a particularly quiet day in the shop in terms of customers, so Andreas had given most of his staff the day off. The weather was conducive to outdoor relaxation, and Andreas liked to let those working for him get a bit of rest when he could. The rigorous demands of being the leading supplier of equipment to the Mondolin military, as well as the Knights of Mondolin, meant that the opportunities for rest were few and far between. Normally this would cause the workforce to become dissatisfied and restless, but such was the respect that Andreas commanded through both his skill and his character that those he employed in his shop were happy to do it.

Taking a swig of water and downing tools for a moment, Andreas decided to take a quick break from creating crazy things in order to check in on his daughter. Lilian was not quite as skilled a smith as her father, having dedicated her life to following her mother's footsteps in becoming a Knight. Still, she inherited enough of her father's raw talent that she was still adept at Andreas' chosen profession. Coupled with the fact that she was also already an accomplished enchanter, Lilian had the potential to surpass her father in the field of invention one day, and Andreas for one was looking forward to that day.

Andreas entered the main workshop and looked around. The place was quiet. His other child, Lucas, was at his uncle Xander's house, hanging out with his cousin Max while he had some downtime from his duties as a Knight of Mondolin. But Lilian was missing too, and Andreas decided to go and check the storefront. Maybe she was dealing with a customer. He always forgot that he couldn't quite hear the counter bell from the back workshop. He'd been meaning to make a better one, but like always he got sidetracked all of the time.

Emerging through the doorway out to the storefront, Andreas found Lilian introducing herself to a boy who was carrying a white bag and had a longsword strapped to his back. Andreas waited politely until Lilian finished, and then introduced himself too, smiling jovially. "Sorry to interrupt. I didn't hear the bell. I'm Andreas Toral. Welcome to my little shop, kiddo." Andreas reached over and ruffled Lilian's hair in a gesture of annoying affection designed to embarrass his daughter. "I see you've met my baby daughter already." He chuckled before continuing. "So, what brings you to this neck of the woods?"

A young lady with a metal arm came out from the back and started to speak to him, introducing the shop and making a bold statement. That was backed up by the merchants he had helped earlier. Then a man came out as well, and had overheard, introducing himself. Andreas Toral, the shop owner. The girl was his daughter apparently. Setting his bag down, the blond reached in. First came the "head" of the scythe, fully extended, connected by a very messed up chain. Then came the main shaft, followed by another length of very messed up chain, and the last little bit. The entire weapon was black, including the blade.

Laying it on the table, he spoke. "The merchant I escorted here said much the same. My scythe could use some repair. Just watch where you grab it and stuff...it's a six sectioned weapon that's collapsible and the end there flattens out into a blade. My mentor's friend gave it to me as a present and has served me extremely well...I'd really like to have fixed if possible..."

He was fidgety and nervous. Only a certain blacksmith in Lower Edia had even touched his weapon, and that was only because it was him that made it. But Rex had no choice here. He was a long ways from home. Though he did notice the girl staring at him. "What? Do I have something on my face?" Or could have been that his accent was weird. Which was possible. While he was more fluent than other Asentari in basic, it was still his second language. And he had heard that even their accent seemed more...old world. He hoped that didn't give away his origin. The last thing he'd want is to start a diplomatic incident.

Not long after Lilian greated the boy, her father came in and introduced himself, in his embarrassingly affectionate manner. The boy explained about his weapon and she could see her father's eyes lighting up as he beheld the weapon. She wondered how many replicas of the weapon he'd end up working on by the time he'd repaired it. He noticed she was staring and called her out in a partially rude manner, asking if he had something on his face. She gave him a cheeky grin. "Yeah, a nose and a little bit of baby chin hair." she replied.

But she kept looking at his eyes, and finally asked, "Where abouts are you from?" There really was something strange that she couldn't place, though maybe she was just imagining things. But asking straight out seemed to be the best method, assuming he answered at all. She doubted her father would pay to much attention once he got his hands on the scythe however.

Andreas was intrigued when the boy produced a very intricate weapon from the sack he was carrying. The weapon was a scythe of some description, jet-black in color. It appeared to be collapsible, though the chains connecting the various interlocking parts together had suffered considerable damage. Andreas was immediately enthralled by the weapon, immediately studying the various parts and mechanisms. "Fascinating. It's a very interesting piece of equipment. I wonder if I could do something similar maybe..." Andreas produced a small piece of parchment from his pocket and immediately scribbled some notes on it with a sharpened piece of charcoal.

Andreas was so absorbed in his study of the weapon that he almost didn't notice the secondary conversation that had commenced between Lilian and the boy. The boy asked why Lilian was staring at him, and Andreas snapped back into the current situation. He looked from his daughter to the boy to try and see what she was staring at. It was then he noticed the boy's eyes. They were slit, like a snakes. The only people he knew that possessed that trait was the Asentari. Andreas tensed almost unconsciously. While he had pretty much put to rest the circumstances regarding death of his wife during the Human-Asentari conflict, his daughter's feelings on the matter were still quite raw.

Lilian asked where the boy was from, but Andreas tried to strategically change the subject. "Sorry, I was lost in thought there. I'd love an opportunity to have a go at repairing this. It really is an impressive weapon. It shouldn't take too long, provided there's no hidden surprises, Mister, um... what was your name friend?" Andreas didn't know for sure if the boy was an Asentari, but he would rather not allow another conflict to break out in his shop.

Wait, chin hair? He was growing some! A quick check with his hand proved that he wasn't. Pouting and giving her a playful glare, Rex spoke. "Don't get my hopes up like that." Even Kronos can grow a little bit, but he still only had to shave twice a year it seemed. Unlike some other Asentari. Then came the question, and then Rex started to look a bit worried. Luckily, he didn't have to give a vague answer or lie about his origins thanks to her father. Who seemed to have caught on. Impressive really, considering his eyes and the lighting.

Shooting him a grateful look, Rex answered. "Rex von Broven. It does have an enchantment, but all it does is absorbs offensive magic and sends it back...if you swing it, otherwise it stores it for a little bit then disperses it harmlessly. There shouldn't be any other tricks attached to it. I can only imagine how long it took to make it initially and how much it cost my mentor's friend...only the chain isn't made of divinium..." If there was, they were new.

"Don't suppose you have a time frame? If it's gonna take a day or more, I could use a recommendation on inns...I've never been here before..." Hopefully there was no other questions...let alone something pertaining to his origin. He had to give the man some credit for noticing and strategically shifting topics.

Lilian sniggered as he inspected his face with his hand. He seemed pretty dissapointed and she couldn't help laughing at him. However he never answered her question, and her father also swiftly changed the topic, though he tried to hide it behind his enthusiasm for the weapon. At the mention of enchantments however, Lilian forgot all about his strange eyes and moved to inspect the blade.

"Ooh now that's more my style." She said examining the weapon. "Who enchanted it? I'd love to compare notes. Also have you considered trying to have the chain removed and replaced with an enhantment! It would cut down on weight, make it easier to store, and maybe even improve the reach. Plus this will never happen again, unless the handle gets messed up." She barraged Rex with a rapid stream of words, all enthusiasm. She also started to scribble down notes, comparing with her father. "I might be able to do something like that for you, but I'd probably need to study the enchantment already on the weapon. Without knowing anything about it I might mess something up and the next time you activate it..." She looked at him, pausing for dramatic effect. "Boom!"

Lilian looked at her father. "In the mean time we could replace the chain with Aurilium!" She said. "The reduction in weight wouldn't be comparable to an actual enchantment, but it would be far more efficient than steel." Rex asked about a timeframe and Lilian shared a glance with her father, and somewhere to stay while it was being fixed. "What do you think, Papa a day?" She asked. She looked at Rex. "eitherway, there's an Inn down the road. I can show you where if you want." She said. She was smiling, but she still had questions for him, and it would be easier to get answers from him without her father interfering.

Andreas let Lilian's bit of teasing slide, and chuckled when the boy acted disappointed with the lack of facial hair he had grown. "Maybe someday, kiddo." Andreas was relieved then when Rex told them about his weapon, as the mere mention of enchantments immediately seized Lilian's attention. Lilian began to hyper-verbalize in a manner eerily similar to her father when he was intrigued by something. Andreas smiled when she began comparing her notes with his. He ruffled her hair in the way she hated but could do nothing about.

Lilian mentioned Aurilium for the chain in order to cut down on weight, pending an enchantment. Andreas nodded, and began rooting under the desk until he produced a large book. He opened it and scanned it rapidly. "That's a good idea. I would've suggested Divinium but I don't have a shipment arriving until next week." Rex then asked for a time-frame, citing the need to organize lodgings until the weapon was mended. Andreas stroked his chin in thought. Lilian suggested showing Rex to an inn, and he nodded in agreement. "Good idea. I'll take a look at the weapon while you two are gone. I'll have a better idea once I examine how the chain is attached and such." Andreas scooped up the weapon and smiled warmly at Rex.

"Alright. I'd say go and get yourself set up. Come back to me when you're sorted and we'll go over what needs to be done. Deal?" He turned to Lilian and nodded at her suggestion. "Yeah I'd say the One-Winged Angel is probably the best bet. They're cheap enough while still being decent quality. You should try the trout while you're there if you get a chance. It's smoked in Mith Verdanus and it's really tasty."

The reassurance didn't lift the pout on his face. "I'm already twenty-two years old...even my rival has to shave twice a year the red-headed bastard..." Then she bombarded him with questions, making him give her a deadpan look. "I don't know. Again, gift from mentor's friend. I don't know who enchanted it nor made it." Seriously, how many times does he have to say that.

Though they did give some recommendations on what can be done. Still, he scowled at the additional enchantment. He only knew the basics, but gear can typically handle three before breaking down under the magical load. He didn't want to waste space. But at the same time..."I'm a bit unsure on the new chain material...we don't get much Aurilium where I'm from, so I don't know it. Plus the weight is part of why I'm deceptively strong. Money isn't an issue with me though, so I guess you could go with that, have me test it, and if I don't like it, revert it back to before?" It was a light suggestion. Hopefully they'd work with that.

Then came the inn suggestions. The older even mentioning the trout. Raising an eyebrow, he picked up his large white bag, ready to be escorted there. "Never had trout. But I'm also picky with my fish...my neighbor's mom has basically spoiled me on that...I've yet to taste a fish better prepared and cooked than her's."

With that, he allowed himself to be taken away. Once outside, and turned to the right direction, he looked at her and noticed what she was staring it. Panicking, he looked away. "Down south. Anyways, since I'm here for at least a day, after my business with you guys, got anywhere you'd recommend a tourist?" He decided on vagueness. It was pretty clear she was going to ask her question again. And he hoped it was enough to satisfy her...

Lilian nodded in agreement with her father. "Well take it from someone who
is also quite picky with fish, the trout there is divine!" She said. "And the soup. I should mention that to Kairi some time." She said to herself. She looked at Rex. "Ok no point in wasting time lets get moving." She said cheerily. The weather was pleasent outside, so she didn't bother with a coat. She crossed the room, holding the door for Rex.

They started walking, and when she looked at him he turned away and spoke, mentioning he was from down south. "Down south? Oh, have you been to Edaria? I've always wanted to go. The furthest I've made it to is Mith Silvanus. Not exactly far." She said casually, though the question was far more searching than it seemed. She paused, and smiled before she said, "You seem pretty nervous. You should relax a little. Its not like your being accompanied by a Knight Of Mandolin into the citadel for questioning." She said with a laugh.

She continued walking and he asked another question. "Well, there's a monument to Na'Sora in the east end that's worth checking out, you could always visit the Silver Citadel, granted unless your some sort of nobility you can't just go walking in. Its still nice to look at from outside. There's plenty of cafes, offering delicacies you won't find anywhere else outside mondolin." She said. As they rounded a corner the sign for the one winged angel came into view. "Here we are." She said as they reached the door. She held it open for Rex. "I'll wait here while you sort yourself out."

Huh...some good eats apparently, at this place. And...wait, did she mention Kairi? As in Kairi Thorne? Well, only one way to find out, but first come some things. First thing she asked after he said he was from south was Edaria. Close enough to the truth, but since he hasn't been there, best to avoid that specific answer. "No actually. I live west of there. I cut across to the northeast and avoided it for now. Didn't use many main roads. I intend to on my way back, though."

He gave a nervous chuckle as she laughed at him for being so nervous. He hoped he wasn't being too transparent. Main places of interest was a monument and the Silver Citadel. Though that one was limited to just looking at the outside of it. Nobles huh...he had some questions on that one. But they got there before he could ask.

The blond nodded and walked in, paid for a day and got a room. After dropping off his stuff at said room, he went outside. He kept his sword though. But now he wasn't lugging that large white bag. "Thanks for showing me here. Shall we go back then? This time he paid a bit more attention to around him. But he also spoke up this time. "Nobles huh...do they have any governing power here? I guess I'm just used to voting for my leaders...both the wealthy and the poor have the same say on who leads..." It was a curious question.

Oh, and there was one more..."You mentioned a Kairi earlier...do you by chance mean Kairi Thorne? Of the Sunlight Covenant?"

Lilian nodded when he mentioned west of edia. He was definitely being a little bit evasive, but she didn't push him on it right now, instead answering with a faint smile. When he returned from inside the in, he asked nobles. Lilian tilted her head, recalling her knowledge on the subject. "The king holds most of the power, but the nobilty have the power to influance who sits on the throne. We've had some bad kings in the past, moron's who brought mondolin to its knees. However, we don't have a royal line, so we dont end up stuck with their offspring, since kings and queens are elected by the support of the nobility. Our current king is a great man. Some people feel he mishandled the first contact war a few years back, but I think if it wasn't for him it would have been far worse." She said, looking up pensively before continuing.

"I swore my knight's oath to him, just like my mother. I'm worried when he passes I could end up under the command of another fool." She said. Her expression changed to sadness, at the thoughts of her mother, before she snapped out of it, and looked at Rex, a smile on her face again. "Sorry, I'm rambling. I hope that gives you a general idea of our governing system." She said. He continued on, asking about Kairi, causing her smile to widen. "You know Kairi!" She said excitedly, confirming that indeed she'd been talking about Kairi thorne. "How do you know Kairi? I seen her a few days ago, how did you two meet?" she siad with a laugh at the sheer coincidence of their meeting.

So, they weren't the only ones that thought their leaders/military leaders went about it the wrong way. It wasn't often his mentor regretted how she handled a situation, but the contact war was certainly one of them. According to Shade, it was the fourth time such a thing happened. It could have been handled much better by both sides, more so on his own than theirs. He quirked an eyebrow and waved off her apology. "It's fine. I left to get cultured, so it's perfectly fine. Though to be fair with those that criticized your leader, from what I heard and read, both sides could have handled it better, but more so on the Asentari side. Still, it showed how fiercely and how far they go in protecting those they consider their own.

I take it then your current king is not in good health? Are there clear favorites to replace him? What are your opinions on them?" He risked it. Though he guessed her mother was a Knight and was involved in the war. And never came home. So he left it at his own personal opinion and went on about their king.

She confirmed it was the same Kairi. Small world it seemed. Though that left a whole lot of other questions. What did she say about him if anything? He doubted much if Kairi knew Lilian didn't like Asentari. Might have just described them as a colorful cast of characters with two noteworthy ones. "Out in the Freelands actually. Me and a couple of temporary allies were trying to find some leads to the Dying Sun's leader's whereabouts. I got involved because they tried to mug me and wanted a bit of vengeance for the attempt. She had a tip, and so we met her and a couple of others. Faylandra Shor and Valatrix the Hornless were the main cast, and the most interesting. An Eldari and a Heanta, both very unlike what I've heard their races to be like. They almost bickered and got along like siblings. It was...fascinating to say the least. Anyways, Kairi's an excellent fighter. She took on someone that I've fought against for years and came out on top. Perhaps a bit on the soft side, but that's not a bad thing. Very honorable. I would love to spar with her someday..." It was a bit wistful.

And before he knew it, they were back at the shop.

Lilian nodded in understanding. "I can understand that." She said. Her expression darkened at his mention of how the asentari only slightly mishandled the situation, but had done it to protect their own. "Allot of people died because of how they mishandled that situation. They could have reached out to the humans in the freelands for help, instead they attacked their towns and nearly started a war with mondolin when we moved in to protect the freelands." She said fiercely. "I will never forgive them for that." She took a few breaths and quickly composed herself, glancing apologetically towards Rex for her outburst.

She shook her head to his next question. "No, as far as I'm aware he's not Ill. Its more of a worry for his age. He's been around for a very long time. My grandfather was only a boy when King Tormir took power." She explained. He asked about the potential candidates for the next ruler, to which she frowned. It was common knowledge that Tormir was old, but discussing her potential future king or queen with a stranger didn't seem right to her.

However refusing to answer would seem rude, so she told him the bare minimum. "Riva is a wealthy noble who seems pretty focused on trade. She'd be Mondolin's third Queen by election rather than marriage if she wins.. The other is Sigismund, a former Knight of Mondolin." She explained. He was milataristic. Had he been in power a few years ago, they'd probably be in a full time war with Edia right now. Even if she hated the asentari, she wouldn't wish for that.

She smiled even broader when he talked about how he'd met Kairi. "She told me about this when I met her. She never mentioned you, which I wouldn't take offense to. You were travelling with the grand daughters of a pair of legends who were by all accounts were mortal enemies, and these girls are freinds. Its probably easy to go unnoticed with them around." She said. She was facinated to hear more about them. "You are lucky. The only heanta I've ever encountered did this to me," She raised her arm, "and I'd very much not like to meet that monstrosity again." Though she sounded chirpy, it was easy to see she was a little bit shaken even talking about the heanta casually.

He talked about Kairi with great respect. She nodded. "I first met Kairi after my injury. She got me through it, even though she didn't know me and had no reason to talk to me. I have allot of respect for her." Lilian said. "So who else was on your team? Kairi didn't give more details after she mentioned Faylandrea and Valatrix, because we got side tracked." Lilian mentioned, as they'd made it back to the shop. She opened the door and listened to his answer.

While the criticism was legit, it should also be noted that they did not move out of their way to rape or pillage. They just attacked soldiers and left, following leads. Still, it made him sad and a bit determined to get her to like him after hearing that. He left it alone and thought about what he just learned. A merchant or a Mondolin Knight. Hard to say what each one was like, but could guess that Riva was more peaceful and diplomatic, but not so much on the other one. He just nodded and listened more.

It was fascinating. Then she mentioned her own unfortunate encounter with a Heanta. A lost arm. But replaced with this...mechanical monstrosity. Rex's eyes practically sparkled in wonder. But considering she seemed shaken, he didn't inquire about it. Before walking in, he mentioned the other two names of their merry little band. "Seigfried and Bethany were the other two. I guess Seigfried fought Vala once and they since became acquaintances on good terms. Bethany I met before early on in my adventure. Briefly fought her, but neither of us were serious. Even drank together afterwards. Anyways, Beth flirted with Fayla and antagonized Vala a lot. It was quite hilarious. Seig was more reserved. And a lot larger than the rest of us."

He opened the door and held it for her. "The Dying Suns leader didn't give my rival the freedom he needed to be good. Things would have been a lot harder if he was in full control of the defense. Instead, it was more half-assed than anything. I kind of felt sorry for the traitorous bastard. But she did save him I guess, so I can respect his loyalty in that regard at least. Anyways, made any progress while we were away?" He asked the elder Toral. Who knows, maybe he'll let the blond take his daughter out and about and get acquainted with the town.

Though he didn't inquire more about her arm, she noticed the look in his strange eyes. Which she still couldn't place, but had by this point put to the back of her mind for the most part. She listened intently as he told her about Bethany and Siegfried. Both sounded like interesting characters, and she laughed when he told her about how Bethany flirted with Fayla and antagonised Vala. "She must be a brave woman to antagonise a Heanta like that." Lilian replied. He went on to talk about the dying suns leader had missused her resources and Lilian nodded. "It sound's like she let the power go to her head, or maybe she was just unhinged. I've seen reports of the trouble the Dying Suns were causing in the freelands, but we didn't get involved because they kept out of Mondolin. What exactly were they after?" She asked him, trying to gather a bit more information on them, since she'd forgotten to ask Kairi most of this stuff.

He held the door open and she walked into the shop, walking over to the counter to inspect the progress her father had made. She looked back over to Rex as he asked about the progress, as she studied the notes her father had taken so far. "By the way." She said to him as read. "You mentioned you were deceptively strong, but I'm guessing based on your build you're not a normal human. What kind of powers do you have? I don't meet to many gifted humans. Any chance to study their powers for enchantments is helpful." She said to him.

Andreas looked up as he heard the doorbell tinkle in the shopfront. While Lilian and Rex had been gone, he had fully inspected the weapon the young man had brought in. It was a remarkable piece of equipment, with every part and component working seamlessly with each other when in use. He had hoped to get more time to take it apart, but a customer is a customer. Andreas emerged from the back to find Lilian and Rex standing there. Lilian had apparently been poring over his notes, while Rex immediately asked him about his progress. Andreas nodded with a grin.

"You two were quick! I hope you got settled in alright." Andreas chuckled warmly before continuing. "Well, I managed to get inside and have a look around. I can have it fixed up by tomorrow, no problem. Do you want it just fixed up the way it was before? Or did you want to go with my suggestion from before?" Andreas turned his notes around so Rex could see them, though he never thought to consider if the young man could decipher his scrawled writing. "If you want, I can just replace the chain with another one just like it, only... you know... not broken. Or if you like I can whip up an Aurilium chain to cut the weight down without sacrificing durability." Andreas folded his arms. "It's your choice kiddo."

That seemed unusually hypocritical. They didn't bother with the Dying Suns because they kept out of Mondolin, yet they interfered with the Primoris Rex and her task force when they weren't close. Though he could see the threat, the fact they never saw the threat of the Dying Suns was...confusing to say the least. Well, whatever. "A force came in afterwards. Heanta. Even my rival fought with us instead of against us on that one. They were after Vala. Apparently, they were contracted to kill her. Had been for years. Apparently one of their own has a bit of a thing with the Hornless clan, that much was revealed. The real who is still up in the air or Vala didn't tell us." That was a tough fight. Already tired from their previous, that came in. It took all of them to take down that force.

Rex nodded at the man and asked some questions. Well, no harm done? "I'll give the Aurilium chain a try. If it makes my swings faster, the loss of weight might be worth it..." Then came Lillian's askance, and to that he frowned and stared at her suspiciously. That was a bit uncalled for. "There is a saying: Information is Ammunition. If you can hide your abilities for as long as possible, the less likely it is that you will lose your head. As curious as I can be of one's abilities, I don't ask. I see in battle or spar. And even then..." He shook his head while closing his eyes momentarily. "It would be one thing if we would always be allies. But as a temporary mercenary out in the Freelands, that is not a guarantee. Even if we were friends I'd say no. Though I would like to be...you're an interesting person. But I will not ask about your own capabilities." That was only fair.

"I'm more interested in the culture of the place, than anything, though making a friend is a good bonus. If you're interested in showing me around...meet me by the Silver Citadel." With a suddenly boyish, if charming, grin, he left them to it for the moment. He had most of the day left, at least. He'll go the Shrine first, see what it's all about...

Lilian listened to him explain the events of his mission against the dying suns. "Heanta? Well now if we'd known they were involved I imagine we'd have been a bit more interested in the whole thing." She said, and put that piece of information aside for later. She'd have to mention it to the higher ups and see about keeping a closer eye on the dying suns if they were still active.

Lilian frowned as he declined to share information on his powers with her. However she nodded understandingly. "Sorry I hadn't considered that. I'm not prone to getting into fights with customers, and I spend no time in the freelands, but I do see your point." She said. Then he mentioned how he was interested in learning about Mondolin's culture, and possibly making a friend, asking her if she would be willing to show him around. "I'd like that." She said, smiling back as he grinned and slipped out. She watched him vanish from view.

Lilian leaned against the counter and let out a sigh. "Well, he seemed nice. It would be rude not to show him around, right? You don't mind do you Papa? I mean, you can handle the repairs, you don't need me do you?" she said to her father.

Andreas nodded as Rex accepted his offer. "I hear you loud and clear kiddo. I can have it ready for you in a couple days. I just have some Mondolin requisitions to see to, then I can get to work on yours." Lilian then asked about Rex's powers, given that he had mentioned earlier that he was deceptively strong. He immediately shifted on the defensive, citing a quote he had never heard before. Andreas chuckled. The kid had clearly got a lot of learning to do.

"You're half-right, I reckon. Sure it's good to not let your enemies know your abilities, but it's also safer if you know what your allies can do, and they you. You never know when your life might be in their hands. Otherwise, you can't trust them on the battlefield, and your formation will crumble." Andreas laughed again and shook his head. He looked at Lilian apologetically. "Look at me, I sound exactly like your uncle."

Rex eventually offered to meet Lilian by the Silver Citadel, to help him learn the culture. She agreed, and he gave her a grin and left without a second word. Andreas tried to say goodbye, but the kid was gone. Lilian then turned to her father and she asked his opinion on the kid. Andreas spoke in mock indignation, barely concealing a laugh. "Nice to you, maybe. It's like I wasn't even here." His face then widened into a grin. "Don't worry I know what young love is like. Of course it's fine. I can manage. Lucas will be back tomorrow so he can help me." He ruffled her hair in an annoying parent way. "Just be careful. I'm not sure what he means by 'interested in the culture'. I'm not up to date on my youth-speak." He grabbed his notes and went to head back inside the workshop. "Enjoy your date, kiddo. Don't be out too late, you'll miss your bedtime." He chuckled again and went in the back.

Rex simply nodded. But alas, they weren't always going to be friends. And there is always blind trust. Alas, he walked around a bit. He didn't know how much the guy would charge, but money wasn't much an issue. A good craftsman was hard to find though. A couple of kids did pickpocket him, only to be hunted down, his money stolen back, and a small tip for their courage. Which he was sure they did appreciate given their large grins.

He explored the monument first. He did get some weird looks from his clothes, sword on his back, and longer blond hair. Still, he didn't let the stares get to him. After a quick prayer, he left in good spirits. It took longer to get to the Citadel. And he couldn't help but stare in aw. It was impressive. Both in size, and how shiny it was. There were guards at the door, and a few groups here and there. He'd wait for a little bit, making casual observations to the people going in and out of the place.

"Hey, what are you doing here?" Rex turned around to see a couple of guards. "I'm waiting for someone and admiring the architecture. Surely that's not a crime?" He was still a fair distance away. Surely they're not paranoid. Especially inside of this fortress. Well, they were getting huffy, even with Rex backing up with his hands up in a surrender or peaceful way. He was really hoping Lillian would show up soon now...

"Young L- I think your jumping a bit ahead of yourself!" Lilian spluttered as he ruffled her hair. Andreas warned her to be careful and questioned the meaning of "Interested in the culture", to which Lilian puffed out her cheeks with a great hrmph and glared at him even as she blushed. But then she sniggered as an idea came to her to get him back. "Oh don't worry Papa, I'll bring protection!" She said with a beaming smile.

With that she went into the house and changed into some clean cloths, a white tunic and black skirts, and threw a short light blue cloak over her shoulders. She set the cloak in place with a small shield clasp bearing the Knight's of mondolins crest. When she was door getting ready, she stuck her head back in the workshop door and shouted over the din, "Don't wait up!" She vanished out the front door hiding a devilish grin.

The citadel wasn't to far from where she lived, so she took her time getting there. She spotted Rex near the gates watching the people go by. There were two guards at the gates who looked unhappy, she noticed, and as she approached one of them spoke to Rex. "Alright kid I think it's time you beat it." He said, hand on the pommel of his sword as he sauntered forward. "Unless you want a look at the inside of one of the cells." Lilian stepped in between Rex and the guard. She shot Rex a reassuring smile before speaking to the guards. "That wont be necessary. He's with me." She said. The guard looked her up and down, but failed to recognise her.

"Out of the way girl." He gruffed. "Or your both going in a cell." The other guard locked eyes with her and paled. "Uh, Grif." He said, the guard's head snapped around. "What, Iro." He demanded. "That's not a girl." Iro stumbled over his words. "Excuse me?" Lilian glared, Iro paled further "I mean Uh, Miss Toral." He said. He lowered his voice to a whisper. "Grif, that's Lilian Toral. The knight with the metal arm?"

Grif spun around and stared at her with wide eyes. "Ser Toral! I-" Lilian smiled and booped him on the nose with her metal finger. "Forget about it. But you know, don't harass people for standing near gates. Your guards, not bullies. Now, back to guarding." She said. Iro gave a relieved sigh and Grif moved out of the way with a salute.

She looked back at Rex. "Come on, I'll show you around the public areas. And maybe the inside of a cell if you'd like." She grinned slyly. She led him in and booped Iro on the nose on the way past, and headed for the entrance hall of the Silver citadel. "The silver citadel is as much a work of art as it a fortress. The entrance area is open to the public, mostly, but the actual fortress is home to the knights and the king. I can't take you back there, but the library and galleria are open." She explained as they walked. "So what would you like to see first?"

Rex found the exchange between the guards and Lady Toral fascinating. And humorous. Though at the mention of maybe the inside of a cell, he did sputter and gave her a slight deadpan expression. "I'd rather not. Most cells are damp, cold, and barred. And depending on how the good the locksmith is, can be a huge pain to pick the locks of..." Not that he hadn't practiced at all. Nope, never.

It was painfully obvious that the place was as much a work of art and a fortress. A good balance between art and practicality. He could definitely appreciate it. Both places sounded good to him. But he'd likely spend more time in the library. So, best go for the galleria first. "I could probably spend a week or more in the library, so lets go with the galleria first. Then I'll likely spend the rest of my time here in the library..." What better way to learn about a culture than by it's art and literature? There was no way he could let this opportunity slip by!

Lilian giggled at his response to the cell joke. "I'm joking of course. Besides, they're quite deep underground. Allot of stairs I don't want to walk back up." She said. He mentioned something about trying to lockpick and she tilted her head. "Hmm, well I don't know about picking locks with tools, but I did try to enchant a piece of metal to do it for me. You know, just incase. But I made a mistake on the enchantment and, and boom! Blew the lock up instead." She said, and with a cough she added "And the strong box.."

He liked the sound of both places but opted for the Galleria first, since he would end up spening all day in the Library. She smiled and led him towards one of the large doors into a short hallway with several doors in it. She went for the door on the opposite end of the hallway that led into room lit with natural lighting via the glass ceiling, and also had small gems mounted to the wall, which gave off considerable light too. "Most of the lights in the citadel are simple Brasiers, but this room, the throne room and Library use those gems. They're simple to make but they need to be swapped out every week so you can imagine trying to maintain an entire citadel of them." She explained.

She let him take his time exploring the Galleria, and waited to answer any questions he had about the art. The majority of it depicted the past battles with plaques displaying the paintings name and what battle. Among them was a portrait of her mother, honered for her years of service. There were others of great knights too, and one particular row depicted past kings and queens.