Dailin Oasis, as that was what his children had come to call their new home. Rose steadily upward, following the flow of the River that fell within the bowel shaped crown. It wasn’t always a straight path, actually it rarely was, and when it did it only lasted for a short while before he’d have to align his home to the right or left. During which the Oasis was leaving behind it a perfectly round tunnel in its wake as Dailin willed his Mana through the Ward network and out to the realm. Which went seeping into the stone and forcing it to move aside and harden. Dailin was sure there would be a great deal of confusing if people ever dug into the tunnel he was making. That and wonder on what had created it. But that would be after that got them being dazzled by the tunnel. The River had transformed much of the stone as it traveled down, and the rocks changed into a form of crystal. So the tunnel his home was leaving behind was a colorful rainbow of glowing surfaces.

Dailin moved his home up a little longer before stopping and warping the area around it. Pushing the stone further away, and expanding the space around the sphere. Then he formed bridges and walkways leading to the fours Gate, and out towards the walls of the chasm he’d just formed. Dailin disconnected from the panel afterwards, and was forced to blink a few times to readjust to the light of the Wards. Normally it would also be the light from Hearts as well, but his family had been busy.

Ever since he told then they had free reign to shape the city. His family had worked tirelessly to make their envisioned city into being. They’d wasted no time dragging in more stone, which he made sure was inspected thoroughly. After, at all times people were working, shaping stone and planning out the layout of buildings and walking areas. A month in and the once empty room was a maze of buildings and streets.

Still, there was much to be done, his family was being meticulous with their work, wanting to use the space to its fullest. Their words not his, since much of the place reserved for him, was colossal in scale. Certainly not something that could be considered conserving building space. His panel room was a prime example. Domed shaped with a floor and the rising walls, decorated with art depicting him guiding the Oasis to realms unknown. All of which painted a story leading up to the top where a hole was. Covered with a detailed image of a paradise like realm, which he was supposedly leading them towards.

‘Would be nice if something like that was waiting for us’ Dailin thought as admired the craftsmanship. But not long, he had other matters to accomplish, before he could once more drink from the pools again. Dailin turned to the sound of soft Chanting as a group of his Chosen worked around a table, carving out the best guess of their current location. Something Dailin hadn’t even thought about when he first began moving his home upward. Forgot how quick he would lose track of where he was.

As they were in a realm of stone, there weren’t any obvious markers he could look towards to gain insight on his location. Lucky Dailin wasn’t on his own and had people that actually thought of such things, covering for his lack of foresight.

Dailin walked over to them and hovered himself in the air so he could have a broader view. And so he could be out of his children way as they worked. All across the map, locations were presented with symbols, displaying where Sanctums were, and where they thought the Oasis was currently.

There was however one more important detail, at least to his family, which stuck out more than the rest. The Mines, those were marked with larger symbols, were the prizes his Family had been heckling him about. And not just for the ore located there, but the Flocks that were to be heading in those areas. Flocks meant to reclaim and hold off from the Nightmares.

The sight of it had him remembering his. Arguments, with those of his close counsel. His Advisors and Prime Maiden. Remembered their spiel about spreading his light, about bringing in more Vail to shelter from the calamity that was going to befall their race. Dailin wasn’t opposed to the idea, there was plenty of room in his home for more people. However, they had wanted him to move the Oasis closer to the Sanctums. Away from the River, he had flatly refused and told them as bluntly as he could. That the Oasis nor he would ever travel from the range of the River.

That had stopped the conversation for a bit as they talked with themselves, and then slowly flowered him with kind words, questions, and then pleas. All of which led to the decision they would recruit from the mines if they were close enough.

If there was anyone to recruit from. If the Nightmares still called the mines home, Dailin doubted there would be. He’d voiced that to them, told them of the risks. They seemed unfazed by the reality that the Nightmares weren’t as they remembered them. Their lack of running into the beasts on their travel to his location had clouded their thinking. Made them believe traveling wasn’t as dangerous as it certainly was.

“Is everything to your desire Papa?” One of his Daughters asked looking up into his eyes. All were comfortable with the act now, and he smiled at her.

“Quite so” Dailin answered as he studied the map, saw as they finished, that to their estimation the Oasis was near enough to a Mine for him to allow an attempt. “It’s truly wonderful work you do my Daughters,” Dailin said, adding a spark of warmth to it. They breathed in deep when the spell made contact and smiled fondly back at him. But none suffered the same effects as they used to. The wave of fatigue that would normally follow was gone, replaced with a minor relaxation.

Dailin supposed he should have seen it coming, that those around him would grow used to the spell. Which was a good thing, now that he didn’t have to worry about knocking people unconscious if he let out to strong of a burst. Something that was becoming increasingly difficult to manage.

There was so much Mana in him now, all bubbling with an urge to be used. An urge that kept growing the more of the substance he was able to carry within himself. Which allowed him to notice that the more of the substance was together the quicker it acted.

“I’ll be off” Dailin spoke “You all can relax for the rest of the Rotation, I won’t be moving the Oasis for some time.”

“As you desire,” they all said bowing to him, before returning to their work finishing the map.

Dailin Hovered towards the large door that was his exit. There were many other, but much too small for him, those were reserved for his children use. One of which he saw leaving through as he forced himself back to the ground, forced himself to walk on his own two feet. He needed the practice, and wasn’t in any hurry, such times were behind him for now. He and his family was safe, housed in a place that would protect them, but could also be moved out of harm’s way. That was well beyond anything else that Dailin knew about that roamed their darkening realm.

Exiting the room Dailin entered his Chamber, filled with everything he needed, or for those caring for him needed to provide what he wanted. A relaxing area, a place for him to sleep, and a large kitchen, with a door next to it that connected to an overgrown garden. They yet to find a solution to that problem, bedsides continually preening them. There was nothing in the records of the Vail dealing with this dilemma before, at least for those at the level Dailin was used to living in. The quantity of Mana in the air had never been to this point before, enough that plants could grow so quickly they became a hindrance. There was a chance after the pools and Lake had been sequesters off and hidden behind Wards walls. That the density in the rest of the Oasis would go down and let the plants settle into more tolerable growth rate.

It wouldn’t be hard. He could consume the Mana in the air and leave just enough for the plants to work with, but that would come later after everything was finished. For now, his cooks just had to live with cutting their way into the garden to grab the items they needed for his dishes.

Dishes he only partakes in for the enjoyment of it now, rather than actual need. He hadn’t experienced any hunger pains since his complete change to being of light. Dailin assumed it was the Mana caring for all his needs now. Which made sense, what’s the point to of eating food to revitalize his body when a magical substance could do that and everything else? It was convenient though but was adding to his problem of losing track of time. That and the lack of sleep. That one was really making things distort. He could force himself, and often did just so he could enter his dream and imagine landscapes. But it was always difficult, his body was always primed and ready to run off and accomplish something.

Dailin listened to that urge, let it guide him passed a lounge area to his chamber and down tunnels leading to the council room. It was close, as his family always made sure everything centered around him.

The door entrance leading into the room was opened by a group of people. Since, like his chamber, they made their place of decision making, grand. It was domed as most places they considered important were, and also covered in detailed stonework on the walls. Much of it depicting him again, this time with images of counsel being taken and wisdom being passed out.

‘I really need to tell them to stop making motifs of me, once is faltering, but this, this is an obsession.’ Dailin thought as his long strides carried him quickly through the large chamber. At the center there were stairs leading up to a raised platform which the main table was situated. Where those closest to him discussed with each about problems and plans for the city being built. The chamber was rather busy, Messengers were always coming and going from what he saw. And at the table his Advisors and Maidens sat was covered in shards. Dailin looked towards those seated, which was many, but he only knew the names of his Advisors and Zellebeth. The rest he only knew were Maidens because of the symbols they were on their clothing.

He was tempted to revoke the whole class system. But his family had already been through enough already, were still working through previous changes he'd enacted. There was no need to add more so soon. He would give them the needed time to situate to this new life. One where people weren’t at each other's throats all the time. Ready to off one another at the most convenient time for personal gain.

As he neared the table all the working movements stopped as people turned to him, and bowed. But only that, he’d abolished the whole prostrating act, they were his family, not slaves. Though at times it didn’t feel like it, considering how hard they worked themselves.

Dailin put on a smile as he rose to the table, showering the chamber in his calming spell. They only flinched from it, rather than sinking into themselves. Even the Servants. It seemed most within his home were becoming immune to the spell, or resistant to it now. A relief that made his smile become a more genuine one as he took his seat in a large and very basic chair. There was no point crafting an elaborate one since each session of improvement usually had him outgrow it.

Those around him awaited till he was comfortable, before raising their heads and gazing up at him. The four traded swift glances with each other before Vollow spoke “Blessing upon your arrival Father” His son said kindly. “We were about to begin discussing what Mine to investigate first.” His son glanced down at the map carved into the table, already up to date. Which was impressive considering he hadn’t taken that slow of a stroll to his Advisors.

“The nearest” Dailin spoke amusingly, though he would prefer none at all. Not with the Swarms he’d seen outside. Their first start with tunneling upward had led the Oasis straight into a Nightmare hive that had begun to form around the River. Let him see that the current of his River was being greatly slowed and already ate upon before it got to him. It had been both a disgusting revelation and a relieving one, as he’d thought the River was finally petering out.

That what every runoff which had been feeding it had been fixed. It had not, and the further the Oasis went up the greater the current was becoming. Especially when his spell molding the stone removed blockages that had formed from rock turning to a mass of condensed crystals. Then Dailin got to see and experience in full just how much was flowing down.

His son leaned closer to the map, Uoth as well as she had her arms wrapped around one of Vollow. Her stomach had become well defined over the past month. Dailin wasn’t sure how to feel about the matter yet, each race was different. Some had no ill effects with close family relations, while others suffered downright terrifying ones. If it was the latter for the Vail, Dailin would have to intervene, place down another rule to dissuade it.

The movement of Vollow free hand pointing at a Mine on the map had Dailin retuning his attention back to his son. He leaned forward out of habit with the rest of the individuals seated around the circle table and stared where his son indicated. The symbol carved into the rock told it was a large mine, one of those the Anointed may have been very crossed about losing. Those around him smiled at the result. That large of mine would mean an equally large Flock, and his family was very eager to expand, almost zealous in the want for it. Dailin didn’t mind as long as it didn’t bring harm to those already in his family. Which his circle assured him they had everything thought out and prepared, which would prevent such a thing.

“I’ve already shaped the area around the Oasis into a fitting layout for deployment." Dailin spoke as he leaned back into his chair. “You’re all welcome to begin This Task if you’re certain everything is prepared.”

“No need to let Worry affect you Divine, your House is ready to spread the truth of the salvation you could provide to all.” Zellebeth said smiling, a common look now, for Dailin rarely notice anyone that wasn’t smiling most of the time.

Dailin showed is own, let caring thoughts flow from him and out to those making sure his family remained safe. “If you’re sure, by all means begin, but I’ll be there to look over the Host being sent out. Will make sure everything is to the standards I want.

“As is your right Papa” Sounness spoke, looking at him with those piercing eyes, it was odd how lively they had become, made him see just how dead they had been before. He sent out an extra wave of warmth towards her, eager to make sure this change in her behavior stayed. Like everyone else, she barely flinched but her lips did spread wider.

Dailin returned his attention back to the map, there would be more mines nearby if the River path carried them in the same direction it was already. Most were small, but there were some medium ranged ones. Ones Dailin was sure Flocks would be sent to reclaim. If his family idea worked, then Dailin could expect his home to swell, maybe even become cramped if the expeditions proved to be too successful. But Dailin wasn’t worried about that. He’d been thinking on that problem the moment he considered the concept of refugees flooding through his Gates. Dailin was positive the cost would be enormous, but he couldn’t see any reason why the Mana at his command wouldn’t be able to fuse more outer layers to the already existing Ward network. Though it would be a bit difficult getting the new layer fitted properly before attaching it. But Dailin was confident he could pull it off.

“Divine” he heard Zellebeth say pulling his attention towards her, her smile dimmed some, as she asked. “There’s the Matter with the Sanctums we wish to discuss with you, oh blessed Light of the Giver.”

‘Flowery words, well more the usual.’ It meant those before him wanted something he might be reluctant to approve of.

He motioned at her and she began to speak, “We know your forbearance of moving away from the River. And we all see the High wisdom in that. So we were wondering if the River ever took the Oasis close to one. That perhaps you would allow a Host to be sent off to spread your wisdom?”

Dailin looked at her, then the rest, they were all wondering the same thing. Dailin didn’t know why they had become so obsessed with spotting nonsense about him to others.

Well, technically he did. They claimed it was to save the lost and bring more back to the Givers true path. Which was painful to hear since it was all a lie.

Dailin looked from them, had his gaze wander upward as he thought and considered things. The Sanctums If they had been in the same turmoil Hadthel had been, would be full of people looking for hope. Which was probably what his family was planning for. Many desperate people, those who could be easily swayed. Perhaps made willing to venture out into infested tunnels. Lured by the promises of a holy place where they would be safe.

Normally, people would scoff at such a tale, But if they were going to be thrown out of the Sanctum anyways, or forced into a Flock to die fighting a Horde they had no chance against. Well, Dailin could see his family leading a Flock all of their own back to his home. Though many of them would be Giftless, or Lowly as his people called them.

Dailin turned his Gaze back to those around him, then Zellebeth. “You do realize that even if I allow this, that any saved will be those many of you considered not Worthy enough to be in my House.”

Zellebeth dipped her head to him. “We’re well aware Divine, but many have begun to reevaluate their views.”

Dailin gave her a skeptical look, he'd expected the exact opposite of that, considering the level of Gifts those around him had. Not to mention his Rune skinned children.

“Your Light had shown us a better path Divine” her arms swept out “Shown us what the Give can so easily provide to her truly devoted. How, if we stop with harming those around us, our own, were blest more for it.”

He stared at her for a moment, waiting for her gaze to lapse and she revealed the real reason. Instead, she remained looking at him smiling like always. Dailin smiled brightly in turn, sending waves of warmth out, engulfing the whole chamber in it, “Its Blessed you’ve all finally realized this.” He said in a grand voice as Mana made his voice carry with the weight of power. “And I hope this revaluation of views remains” Dailin continued, his waves of warmth waning “For once their part of my House there will be no removing them. Not unless we have another insistent we just recently experienced.”

“There nothing for Worry to bring about Divine, we are committed, we’ve been shown the glory that awaits us on this path.” Zellebeth spoke devotedly to him, the others sitting at the table voicing their own resolves or nodded in agreeance with what was said. It made Dailin happy, and in turn the Mana acted, began pulsing out, showing to all his mood. The feeling of it had those around him relax.

Made Dailin notice that through his family spoke the words, they in truth may not actually mean it. Only said and acted how he wanted so they would be fed more of the feelings the Vail craved so desperately. ‘How long will this new thinking last if I’m not around?’ Dailin wondered, not even a month absence had seen his House fall prey to another coup. But that was from people who had never been under the effects of his spell.

Still, the question remained, and he didn’t have the answer. They may last months, perhaps years, but in the end Dailin had a feeling they would revert. Be it the people free from the effects of his spells. Or children later birthed who’d never felt his presence.

“I’m glad to hear it, as is the Giver.” Dailin commented as his spell ceased and the Mana was back under his command. “For there may be many Lowly and Soulless in need of our aid if things carry on there current path. Especially with how those of Worth will be reluctant to leave the Towers, as we’ve already seen once.”

His words had those around him lowering their heads, the loose smiles on them gone replaced with neutral faces or thin frowns. “Indeed Divine, we learned well from that truth.” Spoke Zellebeth “Such a thing will never happen again, we assure you, that ill will be prevented from showing itself once more.”

Dailin gave her an understanding look “Mistakes happen, especially when people are rushed. You all did the best you could have under the circumstance placed upon you.” Which Dailin know firsthand after sifting through the many Shards of memories his family had provided him at his request. Saw how much trouble his demand that they come to him caused.

His Estate had been in a state of anarchy, everyone was rushing around gathering things, trying to prepare everything as quickly as possible so they could begin their match to rejoin him. It was no wonder how a coup had ensued. It was the perfect environment for it, everyone was stressed, and most weren’t in the know of what was really going on. So confusion and worry were added on top of it.

It must have been the easiest act for the Hierarchs to spread rumors and gather supporters, get people to go against those in charge causing a ruckus for everyone who once had orderly lives. Dailin till marveled how quickly the Outcasts had been dealt with, how none of his children had been lost nor loyal Maidens.

Dailin sent more pulses out, cradling them in a way, in a layer of warmth. “Know that I believe you all accomplished your Tasks most Highly. There is no reason to hold on to the shame of what happened. In my eyes the removal of my House from the Sanctum was a grand success. Made better that it revealed those uncommitted to my family, people waiting to inflict harm to those I care for.” Dailin said, not really believing his last words.

If those who’d rebelled had just been under his spell once, he was confident the whole affair would never have happened. But that was his mistake, not theirs, so they couldn’t be held accountable for it. He, after all, had not made any mentions that he wasn’t returning to the Sanctum. For he hadn’t known himself, hadn’t yet understood just how bad the situation outside really was.

Those around him gazed upon him with loving eyes, some even had little tears forming. “Thank you Divine, for your Mercy, we will strive to reward such kindness to those below you,” Zellebeth said.

Dailin was tempted to speak out, refute that they weren’t below him in the sense she was thinking, but he held his tongue. He instead smiled kindly back at them. In time he would change more of his family thinking, remove the dogma of those Higher and Lower. Remove the system of expected serfdom that the people of this realm seemed inclined towards. An oddity considering they had some much Mana around them, could perform spells to remove the worst hardships from labor. Could easily house everyone, feed everyone, and live in complete comfort. Rather than constant fear where their running around all the time displaying Worth, showing to all that they had the right to stay within safe walls.

His home would be different, as long the person wasn’t trying to kill others or saboteur his family, all would be allowed to live in peace. Though taxing, Dailin could continue enlarging his home, space wasn’t a problem, nor keeping it powered if the River kept flowing down at the rate it was.

“It is how I am Zellebeth, I’m not the Anointed nor the Elders who condemn people from the start.” Dailin spoke as the masses stared at him with devotion “Such treatment should be earned.”

“Your Kindness knows no bounds, Father.” Vollow added “Another display to us all why we need to save the Flocks of people held under the curses of the Voices and their Elders. Bring them under your gentle care, bring them towards paradise.”

“Yes, Paradise, is it not the Highest thing to do? Bringing those that have toiled away for uncaring Highers into your Light. So you can guide us all back to the Giver.” Zellebeth stated in a preaching manner

Dailin felt uncomfortable, though didn’t show it, just kept smiling and then pouring more of his spell out to hide his displeasure. “I suppose you’re right, still I must care for those already under my care, protect them from the darkening realm.”

“We understand Divine. You follow the Givers will first before all others, we will make sure these Tasks go smoothly, make sure more of the lost are lead to your guiding Light. Free them from the lies that have been seeped into their minds from the very start.” Zellebeth spoke, her words confident. And those around him gave assuring looks as if nothing would get in their way to bring this about.

How much they had changed, all because of simple spells and caring emotions that they seemed devoid of. Why else would they act so wildly to them? To a feeling of someone actually happy to see and be with them. Addicted to a feeling of kinship. It reflected poorly for the Vail as a whole, these people, and the souls that laid within. Devoid of anything kind. At least had been, not anymore, now they were eager to bring people closer, eager to help those which before they would have thought of killing due to the possibility of rivalry.

‘What wonders you can bring about Mana, able to turn even the wicked to the kind.’ Dailin mused “I look forward to seeing these Tasks completed when circumstances allow.” Focusing his gaze back to the map. “It, however, is far ahead of what we have to deal with now.”

The group followed his gaze back to the map, back to the designated mine they were going to be raiding. His son Vollow grabbed a Shard, gave the map a long look then rang a bell, and handed the coming Messenger the Shard who then ran off. Vollow turned and looked back up to him. “Those who have volunteered will be made ready. And if you have the time we could begin processing them now if you desire” Vollow hastily added.

Dailin gave a short chuckle. “Plenty son, and always for those who perform Tasks for me. I’m not like the others, I strive to make those under my care safe, even when they’re away from me.” It was the least he could do when people were putting their lives at risk, even though they didn’t need to. He and his family already had their every need. If not Dailin could make almost everything of importance with stone and Mana. Yet those of his House weren’t content, they wanted metals and jewels to craft with to make his home Worthy of his person. But most, Dailin believed, was those under his care were bored. None had ever had this amount of free time on their hands before. They were always working, fear ladened with the constant dread of being abandoned and cast out or sent to join a Flock. Now all of that was gone, peace reigned, and the truth that life was simple, always had been, always was supposed to be. Before like in all his lives he could clearly recall, people made things complicated and difficult.

“Is there any other matters to be discussed before I depart to help with this endeavor you all thought up?” Dailin asked only half expecting there to be one.

People glanced at each other, and Zellebeth returned her look, staring deep into his eyes. “About the River. We were wondering if the circumstances allowed it. And as we rise higher in the realm, that perhaps if you connected with another one. That you would be willing to follow it to Sanctums or other mines? Perhaps even guide the River down again so we could travel to Sanctums in need of your Light?”

The question caught him off guard and Dailin leaned heavy back into his seat. His eyes went distant as he no longer focusing on them and turned towards his thoughts. Zellebeth raised a good question, eventually no matter how slow he was raising the Oasis higher up the Realm. He would come to other fonts of Mana, someday the source itself. He could make new channels, guide the River so it would always be near him. Guide it to Sanctums, if he was inclined. Though doing so would put said cities at risk. The Nightmares were rising higher up in the stone as well, would follow wherever the Rivers went.

If Dailin ascended enough, perhaps he could fix whatever was causing the runoff to begin with. Stop the feeding frenzy it was providing the Beasts. Maybe then he could turn back the Mountains coming to consume everything. If he only had excess to the Mana, Dailin knew he could make things right. Stop the madness, maybe even make the realm into a divine one.

Maybe, but that was still a ways off and filled with details and question he didn’t have the answers to. Dailin returned his gaze back to those before him, turning his thoughts back to the question. The answer to it was a simple one.

“I would be willing,” Dailin said and the group smiles widened. “As long as the Oasis stays within range of a River, I see no problems with these ideas of yours.” Though Dailin wouldn’t rush to save people who were completely bent on getting themselves killed. He wouldn’t ignore their blight either, not completely, he wasn’t a monster. Just hesitate to help a people that were so quick to betray one another, would betray his improving family. If the opportunity arrived and they thought it would get themselves closer to his good will. But if his family was inclined to try, were the ones to do most of the work, then Dailin would aid them. It was the least he could do, a reward for them changing, for going against all they’ve been taught.

“Thank you Divine,” Zellebeth said bowing low, the act swiftly copied by all those present. “We will continue to strive to remain in your caring Light. Strive to remain Worthy of the Blessings you bestow us.”

Dailin ears flexed some as he picked up the murmurs around the room, people thanking him, claiming their devotion to him. It made Dalian uneasy.

Praise he could stomach, even if it made him blush at a certain point. But this around him was reverence, close or perhaps had become worship, that unsettled him, for Dailin was no god. He was full of too many flaws to be considered such. But when they raised they heads, and Dailin was assaulted with a room of the hopeful and caring eyes staring at him. His unease was set aside.

“Protect my family, keep those I care for safe Zellebeth and you’ll never have to thank me for the aid I give. I will protect those under my care.” His said smiling at all in the room, let warmth pulse from him as he comforted those who believed so much in him. Perhaps not the best thing to do, rewarding their thinking.

But the alternative was back to how they thought before. Thoughts revolving around trying to claim him. An object to kill each other for. Better they thought he was more than he actually was, rather than that. At least for now, once the madness was dealt with, the Nightmares gone. Maybe then Dailin could slowly change the thinking of the Vail as a whole. Remove the urge to kill each other for material gain.

If he could, there will come a point where he’ll be forced to see how much a person could be made decent while still holding a soul that might be dark. Filled with wicked desires. Or perhaps not, Dailin was here in this realm after all, and he didn’t think he was an evil person. Just lazy enough not to try and hope a comfortable life fell into his lap.

“Blessing upon you Divine, may the Giver always rain her Light in your direction, may she always bless us with your divinity.” Zellebeth then others began to mumble, each sentence making his unease return. There was no way around the fact that he was a false prophet, using the Giver as a means to hide his secrets. If she was real then there was going to be a reckoning for this. Nothing went well for false prophets, unless they turned out to be the true one, which Dailin was very much not.

“That’s enough,” Dailin said softly as the chorus of songs to him continued. “I’m blest enough already, I’m in no need for more.”

The words stopped and they raised their heads upward to him again. “As you desire Divine.” Zellebeth said as people returned to their tasks.

“It is.” Dailin commented, happy the prayers to him had ceased. Dailin steered things away from what had just occurred and focused on his inner circle. “Anything else before Vollow guides me to those eager to venture out?”

Once more the movement of heads, as those of his circle gazed at each other. “Nothing that requires your attention Father,” Vollow said while rising from his seat. Dailin did the same, as those about the room moved, opening the large door, and making things ready for his departure. He sent one last pulse of warmth to those running his House before leaving them, following slowly next to Vollow. Which was a struggle considering Dailin large stride. His growth had not stopped, most Vail even the tallest ones barely reach up to his knees.

Noticing this problem, since his son was forced to walk fast and almost jug to let Dailin not just stop and wait each step he advanced. Vollow hummed and formed barriers under himself, and quickly glided away. Allowing Dailin to return to a reasonable walking pace.

He was glad the Vail built big by default, else Dailin would have to make them rework the whole layout of the city being built. Or at least the parts he would travel. Though the problem could still rise, if his growth continued as its current pace. And given he had no intentions in stopping, it would. But that was a problem for another day, and a simple one that he was fine with having. Far better than the life threating ones he was forced to encounter on an annual basis.

The many halls Vollow guided him down were covered in art, both embedded into the walls and displayed on pedestals. There also long curtains with elaborate designs woven into them, which hanged about. And statues, lots of the statues, all of which lined the edges of the hall. Status of him. Dailin tried not to roll his eyes, and suppress the urge of being creeped out. There was only so much devotion he could take, maybe one of his younger selves would have been ecstatic with the amount of devotion. But Dailin wasn’t, especially not coming from those he considered his family, double so not from his children. Admiration was fine, someone to look up to and strive to be, wonderful, but not worship.

“The statues are a bit much, don’t you think son?” Dailin voiced as he swept his eyes along the hall as they went around a bend that displayed even more monuments to him.

Vollow glanced back, “Are they to large Father? Many thought it important to match your scale, to let all remember how High you are, both in form and Worth.”

“No the scale is fine” He actually liked that part, always was fond of large statues. “It’s that there all me. It’s flattering, truly. But not needed, I would be happy if they honored others of my House. Or were just something generic, something as an image to show the worth of the Vail.”

Vollow looked at the statues, his face the look of skepticism. “Is it what you desire?” Vollow asked when returned his glance.

“I would prefer it, yes” Dailin answered, and added “Though there’s no need to rush, I know how busy you all are with building. Just keep it in mind. Though it makes me happy to see how much you all think of me, thoughts are enough. I don’t need endless motifs of myself.” He said finishing with a smile.

Vollow turned his head away from him when he answered, “As you wish.” The tone gave Dailin the impression that his son wasn’t all that fond of the change. So he sent another wave of warmth at Vollow, and kept it going during the whole length of their walk till they emerged outside the complex.

The city was a dance of movement, Vail were everywhere, the entirety of his House seemed to be working. Possibly because they didn’t have anything else to do. Still, he had expected some of them to relax and enjoy the safety they were in. Instead, they never seemed to stop moving. Already Dailin saw two new structures that towered up to the ceiling. Vail were high up there, still working on them, hovered along using barriers. A spell of his that had become the new standard, gone were the use of hovering platforms. Unless the persons didn’t have the skill or reserves to float themselves.

His city, even without being covered in plants, was layered with color. Banners and curtains of varying sizes hanged everywhere. All with woven art within them. Which was usually a rough image of him with his light ebbing out encompassing masses of people sitting around him. Dailin tried not to sigh, it was better than the statues as the figure depicted was vague. Still, it wouldn’t be a hard guess to whom it was devoted to.

“Would you like us to redo the banners as well?” Vollow asked

“No,” Dailin said quickly as he saw the number of those which carried the image, and the size of them. “There vague enough for my liking” he lied, he’d already demanded a lot just for asking the statues to be changed. Which had him wondering. “Vollow, how common are the statues we passed in my Estate?

“Common Father, well the only, all statues were made to depict your Worth.” He answered getting a grimace out of Dailin.

“I see. Never mind on changing the statues, there fine how they are.” Dailin said in a normal tone, batting away the somber feeling that wanted to leak out.

His son stopped and turned fully towards him, a mark of confusion on his face. “But you desired it changed.”

Dailin gave him a large smile “And I changed my mind, the figures are fine with how they are. Just, in the future make the statues depict a generic Vail.”

His son stared at him, gazing very deep into his eyes. Then looked down and bowed his head. “As you wish Father, I’ll let the sculptors know of your desire.”

“Thank you son” Dailin spoke his words soft and comforting as woven Mana pushed into them. His son barely flinched, where before he would have struggled to stay standing. Still, his son seemed happy with the affection. Had smiled kindly before returning to his role of guiding him to the Host being formed to head towards the Mine.

The appointed spot to group up for such turned out to be in the forge section of the city. Or was to be anyways. His family, when they rushed to move to their new home, hadn’t brought with them raw metals. Only already made items and some Guard weapons. So for the moment, there was nothing that could be forged. Not that they needed it, since he could make anything they could ever require out of stone mixed with Wards so it would never break. But Dailin got the feeling that his family was getting tired of everything being made of rock. They were used to a Sanctum after all. Much of which was layered with colorful metals and gems.

When Dailin arrived at their destination he found the Host had already been assembled. And were, before he arrived, standing around waiting on him. The Host bowed as one when he entered their view, which was rather impressive to see. Enough that he clapped when they raised their heads. Sent a wave of warmth dancing across the ranks. To his surprise and somewhat disappointment, none seemed that affected by it. Which was odd considering those making up the Host were people who'd spent very little time with him.

“I seem to have lost my touch” Dailin mumbled out, as he looked at the still standing Host. Which was a relief in truth, it wouldn’t do to send out a half-conscious army.

His gaze was pulled from them when he heard his son chuckle. Vollow was staring at him a wide smile on his lips. “Your warmth Father his stronger than ever, if that is what you’re considered about.”

“Oh” Dailin voiced as he rose a brow “Yet they don’t seem all that affected by it.”

“You’ve changed a great deal Father, the warmth of your Soul is always with us now.” His son said happily. “Though you may release more of it from time to time, the flow never stops. Those within the Oasis have come to learn how to still themselves while under its effect. That” Vollow added proudly. “And those before you are cleansed Father. Freed thanks to your Light, of all the ills that once festered within them.”

Dailin was giving a look of surprise, and not about the part of cleansing. Rather than his feeling were leaking out without his notice. He dispelled his look, returning his smile “That a relief then, I was beginning to worry that my Light was no longer enough to aid my family.” He said while he focused on his body, on the Mana in him, yet he found none leaving. None at the moment, that didn’t mean it hadn’t been. Like how it pushed its way out into his words. It could be doing the same when he was happy. The feeling leaking out of him with him somehow completely unaware of it.

“Such is Worries way Father always making those under its sway doubt themselves.” Vollow voiced kindly and gave him a concerned look. “But don’t let it deceive you Father, your Light is brighter than it has ever been, is brighter with every passing Rotation.”

“Glad to hear it,” Dailin said smiling at his son “Though there's nothing to worry yourself over, it was just a passing thought.”

Vollow stared at him again, before returning the smile and sweeping a hand towards the Host that was watching their exchange. “Of course Father, then let us turn to those that have volunteered to guide new Worthy to your warming embrace.”

Dailin did, his eyes flowing over the masses. None of whom were dressed properly to be heading off into tunnels that could be swarming with Nightmares and Ancients. Then again that was what he was for.

“I take it the designs have been finalized?” He asked.

Vollow nodded his head and looked towards a group of people hovering out a table and an unconnected armor set. “For the most part Father,” His son said as the table was placed near them, and the armor pieces were joined together on top. “Those of the forge were able to gather up enough metal to craft a guide for you to study.”

“Wonderfully,” Dailin said happily. ‘This will be far better than copying them from a mind sketch.’ He thought as he hovered the joined armor suit into the air. He observed how it moved, and how it separated and folded in ways that allowed the wearer to remove the armor. Once he was certain everything was proper. Dailin pulled on his Mana and willed his intention towards the suit, demanding it be endowing with Wards of protections. Without prodding the Mana leapt out of him shining brightly as it brought about what he envisioned.

In less than a minute the work was complete and hovering in front of Dailin was an armor that would keep those of his family safe, even when outside the walls of his home. He smiled at it and with little thought filled the many Hearts that lined the suit.

He twirled the suit around studying every part of it before hovering a pile of rock from a mound his family had brought to the forge. Focusing on it the stone warped until it was identical to the shape of the armor. With tendrils of Mana Dailin worked the limps of the suits, made sure everything was working just like the metal one. Then like before he endowed it with Wards and when he was sure everything had gone correctly he lowered the stone suit to the floor.

“Anyone care to try it on?” he asked the crowd, but it was his son to answer.

“I will gladly Father,” Vollow said lowed himself to the ground and without prompting hurriedly worked his way into the suit. There was a satisfying clink when everything locked and his son began moving, made larger now with a suit molded around him. He spun about and began doing loose stretches testing the bonds of the suit, before look back up to him. “How do I look, Father?” His son said excitedly.

“Safe” Dallin breathed out, “and formidable.”

“I certainly feel it too” his son spoke studying the arms of the suit he wore.

Dailin smiled happily and let warmth flow from him as he turned to the amassed Host. “Now for the rest of you.”