"With the passage of time eternally winding, so do men who reside in its age change, some born with a world engulfed in flames ignorant of peace, and those born in peace naive of war. However one thing is true for where there are men, there are those ready to rule."

Foreboding clouds lingered above, shadowing the skies entirely giving off an eerie ambiance, this gloomy atmosphere covering all directions, blanketing the landscape in darkness. It was an unsettling, ferocious night, rumbles emanated overhead as if the skies were growling. Ear-piercing thunder erupted flashing, intense bolts of lighting danced within the haze of moonlight. Air turned bitter cold, chilling its inhabitants. Shortly the wind wafted, with more intensity howling akin to being alive. Surrounding foliage swayed than immediately gusts kicked up, with grander severity swirling, twisting throughout causing dirt, gravel, and trees to be uprooted..

Making it seem as if mother nature herself had been insulted, arc’s of lighting dashed from the clouds, filling the night sky. Some streaked down scorching the ground, with such force some parts were glassed, deep vibrations resonated underground shaking the landscape like it was shivering in fear. A wildfire took shape, engulfing the foliage and trees, crackling emerged from sizzling trees as if weeping. The savage storm rampaged causing the surroundings to dismay. Invoking those who saw this spectacle to go agape, It was a wicked storm, as much seen only in induced hallucinations. Witnessing this from inside the comfort of his room Asriel was stunned. Never before had he seen a storm with such magnitude, just before he laid down to sleep a massive bolt of lightning streaked down striking an old cemetery.

Blasting into the earth, scaring the landscape its shock waves caused surroundings to rumble, the ground was split gaping open, charred black only deep grumbles emanated from the haze of dust. Intense flashes of light blanketed the area, blinding white filled eyes of those jaw-dropped. There was a tingle lingering, causing hairs to stand on end, painting the scenery with constant, strikes pouring from skies above. The withered cemetery now home to chaos, enduring the storm's wrath. Even hundreds of meters away Asriel felt the vibrations, his room shook with such intensity that objects fell from the walls. A testament to how strong those blasts were just now.

...

The raging unending storm, for what seemed like eons had ceased. It's howling winds no longer ravaging the landscape, this nightmarish tempest, at last, was quenched dissipating from the sky. The gloomy ambiance soon faded and dawn came, rays of sunlight peered filling the surroundings. The sun had risen from its slumber creatures of the night scampered off retreading into their holes, with the sun rising so did the town awaken, sounds of townsfolk could be heard, bustling it came to life. Within the deserted graveyard, last night's carnage was evident. It was destroyed, the scene horrific like something out of a nightmare, graves defiled, trees were uprooted, some even seared black. Much of the ground, foliage had been glassed or carbonized by the lightning bolts extreme heat. Ash and smoke still lingering in the air, as something was still burning.

Despite all this butchery, an object glittered in the distance, sparkling as if reaching out. It was a raven black blade, shining yet rusted its hilt was in tatters some of it scorched from intense lighting blasts. Still the grime, dirt, and smoke didn't deter the beauty of this object; it had elegant golden engravings. The area surrounding it was vaporized black only the mysterious blade remained, soon the sun's warmth covered the area. Rays of sunlight beamed down onto the sword, instantly it began to tremble. Pulsing like a heart the sword seemed to come alive, the energy emanating from it spiked. Bright cryptic runes shone from the blade flickering, wobbling twisting around its severity wavered. The runes were scratched, numerous indents were present on the engravings as if the monstrous storm's lighting had constantly pounded it thus weakening the seal.

...

Dark. Gray, deafening and all too obscuring, enveloping fog- As if sentient, darkness twisted, moving encompassing something or someone. Ignorant of beyond the realms outside were nay distant memories, or visages of dreams. Only dark foreboding and clutching shackles, within the void nothing else existed. In the abyss, the lone figure unconscious and unknowing. Until now, something beckoned something new. Constant tremors vibrated the abyss the chains squirmed, creaking under the unknown stress. Tightening and twisting, the figure jolted swaying in the new reality. Like pounding a hammer against steel, the intensity rose higher in passing moments, soon the shackles broke with a loud snap, free falling into a bottomless pit.

The passing stillness had far ceased, any notion of creeping tranquility had left, what seemed eternal. The only existence, being in it's only form had shattered, thus the abyss slowly retreated- As if running, from something, it's clutches slowly fell and a blinding light peered. Radiating from above, it showered the abyss, darkness now cut, light pounded the figure. A familiar feeling crept, "..W-what is this?" In a uttering daze, the consciousness woke binding weakening, nearly set free from imprisonment the blinding light overtook. It called, it was something.. The slight of light welcoming, The figure saw it, eyes entranced in the brilliance.

LIFE, Life?.. This feeling, desperately trying to escape the void, the surroundings were tight. In each inching moment the sound of the outside leaked, what past by minutes seemed to days- And, perhaps more the dark abyss in constant turmoil unnerving kept a constant sway almost pulling down in any attempt of rest. And what felt like a lifetime had passed, The figure rose from imprisonment the cage shattered. The light took their vision, like a fish out of water they gasped for air, old habits die hard.. Unable to think Ceron could only take in his ruined surroundings, then accounted his last moments.... "That bastard sealed me, where is he?" Looking around the answer escaped him, but saw a dire truth, shocking him to the core.. Or rather what Ceron didn't see, his body was gone. Replaced with a floating translucent form.

Reeling back, Ceron paused... His body was gone. That wretched seal even dared to take my body." He spat, in anger... "But how, am I free?" Briefly glancing under himself, Ceron noticed the damaged hilt split open... The runes have faded, a powerful it force must've been to damage the body- A-h.. Feeling dizzy, Ceron's spiritual body trembled. "Deteriorating and fast...I need a host." Cursing deeply, as the pain struck deeper than any normal wound Ceron breathlessly traced over the smoking graves, quickly advanced out of the muck- Knowing if not his revival would come to an abrupt end.

Quivering much as anything without form could, Ceron pressed on taking any tidbit of information he could see in his surroundings, he hadn’t the luxury to wait. It begged common sense a cemetery wasn’t put nowhere, to affirm his strained thought a sprawling wall took shape. Infact, it was too big not to notice. It would be a suitable place to find a much needed host.

‘Rather than some borrowing fox, or wiggling bug.

Fading as moments past, Ceron feigned the more intricate details, it was cobbled brick and marble. Broad and thick, towering amongst the plains and topping trees. Gleaming in the sunlight every so often guardsmen could be seen peering out, standing vigilant overlooking the scenery. Wasting no time Ceron strode more, passing the various windmills and grazing livestock. Grass-ended fields turned to an ample brick road spreading from the wall’s gate,

Looking past, and though his transparent form Ceron expression deepened at the burnt valley and cemetery, ‘how did I end up here?’.. Pushing his worry aside the road became clearer. Wooden fences were erected guiding travelers, a large banner was hung fluttering in the wind. Jostling the words seemed to beam inscribed "Freywyn".. In scrutiny Ceron pained the banner heed for but a moment, it was a matter for later. And before he knew it, began to shift past numerous people, like a beehive with constant traffic flowing from the gate’s mouth. Elder merchants, men thrilled in masks and others towed vagabond; The place attracted all walks of life, people of differing creeds’ Ceron saw as he scanned the growing swarm. His form remaining all invisible to the non-sensitive.

Ceron took to the crowd, on what little time he had scrutinized the lot, possession was fickle having only dealt with it second hand it wasn’t something you’d want to fuck up. Inwardly groaning spite of his state, all he was, everything he had accomplished was simply wisping away like morning fog at sunrise, to even consider possession was a blessing- But here? Among the masses was a risk, immediate hanging and on the cro-- Halting in his tracks Ceron choked out of reflex, noticing figures dressed in priest-like garb, ahead sweat dropped down his nonexistent face.

The world seemed to stop just as it began, quickly Ceron took to the ground- Trying all but diminishing’ less than a fleeting mouse, somehow squinting he probed the assumed clergy member. The full white and blue attire flapped, just standing among the crowd like pillars or rocks parting a river. Ceron bitterly laughed at the sight, they remained as they were their gazes seemingly gone past and beyond had they seen him; “Do they see me?” I can’t take that chance, not here, continuing his descent Ceron took towards the gate lying in the crowd's shadow.

It was far too risky to possess in the open, much less in front of those who appeared members of the church… An unwilling person would turn unruly at best, strong willed crumbled to convulsions it was an easy tell.

…

Upon passing the gate the world stirred- As Ceron winced and like air had left his lungs went gasping in frantic breaths he went faster as if trying to escape this clutching pain. Looking back and to himself his form went gaussian, those members he saw were gone. Riding on the pure will, whatever happened seemed not their cause. Ceron again bit back the pain, he should still have time, more than this and in his panic Ceron caught it.

At the edge of his sight, how he hadn't noticed could only swell to his own rushed fervor- To dismay, strands of Ceron's form trickled out towards the gate-side. Metallic poles were erected, tall as a man, glowing a deep pulsating blue. Symbols etched and wrapped around these two poles on either side of the entrance; had they pulsed before Ceron didn't know, but in that moment he couldn't fathom how pitiful he had looked' reduced to such a lethargic state.

"f-..."... Witnessing his form shrivel on display like a wilted grape, parts even disintegrating an ashen expression crept as Ceron, but on his same tangent took to himself. The burst of anger subsided even as his very essence was being torn. Withdrawing his frustration, all the world turned dark as his form began to compress the parts trickling slowed, the surrounding air went standstill. Even this form, even in this state, now bodiless not much more than some departing bug' I am the Sixth. If I can't do this much, then I wasn't deserving of it at all.

Uncoiled all at once, Ceron opened his gaze sight razor sharp and focused a jolt of his form lashed out like a cannon, splitting the wind in its wake. The ground rumbled, quaking and cracked in it's path all upward to the poles struck the swirling vortex on impact tore causing an eruption of metal and stone. The shockwave sent a torrent, waves of people flew tens of feet backward some pieces splintering like a hail- Unable to watch, time fell short that attack was all Ceron had, pursing his lips he could barely discern his form to the street below.

Clicking his tongue in annoyance, had he'd noticed or had the seal broken earlie.. "No I can't do this not now.." Desperately Ceron rushed, searching those around, yearning for a suitable host. However he couldn't find any with his vision blurring and the townsfolk too strong- A.. Normal person; cutting back Ceron from despair he sensed it, spotting a dark place few blocks away in some drudge. A person on the brink, curling his lips and on fumes barely sustaining' caring not of his surroundings or wake of wind he left. Causing oblivious bystanders to be swept in a cold chill.

Ceron could almost taste it, someone on the brink, there was no time, no other choice... From within the alleyways depths residing in shadow a person laid drenched in blood.

...

Going deeper, slipping past shadow and anything obscuring Ceron arrived. Wobbling over what seemed more mangled corpse than anything alive. Only the softest of ups and downs of the youth's chest indicated otherwise to the unwitting.

Noting his ebony hair, tainted crimson caked with blood eyes closed and most likely dying if not passing at the very second... Taking no other chance, Ceron contemplated overhead, "This'll have to do." Resolving himself he reached out extending his form and descended. Ceron tried to shove the worrying thoughts away, if he had enough to possess the boy and if he had more to heal or take over-Tsk' Instantly he enveloped the body trying to comfort himself in the rush of action.

His form glowed, brighter than before as Ceron attached to the body and soon vessel, into every pore. Reaching around the cracked bone and all, seeping in using most of his energy to replace the fading soul with his own. Ceron didn't want to face the realization of failure, all he could do was try. Failure meant death that's all' and to where he'd reside? Even Ceron didn't know. Continuing his form looked now like an extension of the boy's slender form. Manifesting himself onto the body and physical, Cerons form spread to all crevices of the body like a layering of film.

The dark began to shift, flicker away as Ceron's form fully manifested within and around the body. Crisp popping and crackling evidently followed, contorting the body into its original state. Pounding off, around the walls it was like an eerie symphony beckoning the wrenching display. The spilling blood reflected back, in such pools the scene clearly shown- The glow taking root blanketed the area in intense flashes, by now in the lull of healing bones and deepened cuts Ceron strained keeping little of what energy he had. In the exhausted state a odd rhythmic hum invaded his senses, unable to deny its embrace swathed over. Becoming deeper as Ceron willed the laying splatter back.

As if in reverse of time, the body reshaped untwisted, blood was sucked back though the cuts and fissures before being resealed like it never occurred. All the while the constant pounding continued, before anything else Ceron exhaled in the final moment and last pop of bone. A surge of energy left as the sound grew- The world disappeared, darkness edged into sight till nothingness in nearly an instant.

...

Thump..

..

Thump..

Darkness it took all, the rhythmic hum skyrocketed. I couldn't hide the creeping panic as I stared into the surrounding void- Silent and familiar. Yet I remained still, unbeknownst to me I somehow felt calm despite my early unease, settling on a sensation I hadn't noticed. Feeling of weight, it felt foreign and perhaps for the spiritual body I grew unconsciously accustom to it was; but it wasn't, the pressure bore all over like molasses, undoubtedly the body. Recalling the boy's body in my mind it must've worked, the once void I thought, was more of a blur as shifting shades of black glossed the emptiness...

All the while the thumping didn't cease, focusing on the sound I realized it came from within, it was this body's heartbeat. No matter how I willed, this vessel- My new body remained unmoving.. I could feel the twitch of sensation like repaving my mind's pathways to the limbs and this body, something cold and wet touched what I knew to be my face and laying side. I couldn't help it, inwardly I somewhat began to pity myself' quickly I discarded that with a scoff" Barely able to move an arm let alone a finger? ...

This little inconvenience wont stop me.

I focused on my heartbeat, straining my sense it grew tenfold from the haze. Twitching I could sense my body jerk almost pulsing. In my attempts it was subtle but, nonetheless came to me another set of breathing not of my own. Someone? It stood to reason this body wasn't courting death by its own volition, I doubt what I heard was from some altruist either. I have to move, whoever it was must've seen my possession.

Focusing to my upmost I envisioned my bodily processes, in line with my pumping heart and circulation to my hands and feet. My hand twitched once more, this brain's pathways and my subconscious were conflicted still I tried again- And again, till there was more than a simple twitch feeling the tingles of my fingers and the seeping wet drench my side. Like a highway down to the bone I perceived my anatomy, till the simple twitch was but me making a fist. And like that it clicked.

...

The abyss left as Ceron understood to be his own closed eyelids, barraged with his senses the surroundings came all at once. Bright yet still somehow dark and dank, the alleyway Ceron hadn't payed much attention came in his sight. Brick between brick, crumb and other piled sludge hung low at the recesses and edges of the tight passage.

Blinking once, then twice the putrid smell shook Ceron prying his face from the ground in an unusually fast way almost stumbling. Standing up awkwardly Ceron nearly fell at his movement was-'Unbalanced, and odd.. "Ah, hmm..' Unable to utter much of thought it was to be expected it was a foreign body, not one he'd been using for his entire life. It would be a lie if Ceron hadn't felt a tad bit euphoric despite just from death, he had a body. Standing and.. Not some dammed floating essence. By the time he'd begun to asses himself, looking down at this body's black jacket- Two figures blocked the light, in-front looking back in shock and well stupid expressions.

Unable to restraint himself Ceron huffed, pointing his index finger up as one began to approach apprehensively, which seemed to catch the person offguard-.. Straightening his collar Ceron looked back to his disheveled attire and stained muck filling every inch of it. Stretching his arms Ceron noted golden cuffs glinting back, below the waist he'd been wearing black trousers and gray leather boots. Rubbing his hair back slick with whatever drudge and blood he'd spilt, Ceron absentmindedly fingered a-Several..Holes in his gray undershirt.

Which frankly tied together his well appearance of a dripping bloodbank. With a last groaning stretch Ceron cocked his head and shoulders, he couldn't help it such was a pleasure of not being sealed... If it weren't for his unbecoming stats he would have loved to take in this.. Delicate scenery however, company didn't seem pleased...

..

Looming two freakish men stood, slipping a idle look. One was riddled with scars, a tattoo of dragons ran down their right arm, towering like some baboon with a face to match, the one next to him; seeming like a twig with ghastly eyes, both wore loose black outfits. With a yellow crescent moon embellishing the shoulders. It wouldn't have taken a trained eye to see, they had faces brought only possible with intimate families. Interrupting Ceron's laying thoughts, the burly one moved. "Oh, we didn't quite pop the bastard." The man spoke with confidence that defied his wavering eyes.

The lanky one was no better, a surprised expression erupting on his face. To the point of being stunned, involuntarily step back.. Saying nothing the man took a long look with a blatant "how" plastered across his face, before turning to their partner, "So the kid' isn't all dead after-all?.."... Huffing the burly man pulled away a hand from inside his cloak, it was a stained but still wet cleaver. "Look at him. Hes barely standing, I'd had made sure' sliced him with many holes.' The man put on a odd face, was it a sliver of admiration? Not much that it mattered in the slightest, eitherway the man posed a threat. Ceron deeply exhaled as he tried to quell the burning in his legs.

For the most part, that haggard annoyance was right. Ceron took to his shaking hands, his body un-familiar and running on fumes of energy not it's own. "And two clowns, these men and.. This body, my body lest some gutter rat scurried about' we were alone... Dying soon as taking form wouldn't be fitting." Ceron looked over the alleyway forked surroundings for any and all escape; mulling all with apathetic disdain only shown on his face which promptly caused the men to move, intending to finish what they started.

In heft steps the burly man inched forward, the blade glinted slightly blinding. "I don't know how you stand boy' but it's time for you to rest." The man's clenching fist like tightened leather was heard, his imposing body a stark contrast teetering to a giant, hyper focused Ceron tensed as the man lunged- Slashing sideways in a fury, Ceron smirked at the movement, predictable brute' stepping out of reach and reeling back in Ceron caught the man offguard, clasped his hand using the weight and momentum to push the man of the ground, toiling and over in a thud.

Dust plumed as the man landed, still clasping the stranger's hand Ceron pressed down trying to pry the cleaver free. Hairs quickly rose, instinctively Ceron let go, narrowingly dodging a backward strike like a spring board the burly man in a single stroke stood. Rolling backward, wobbling Ceron grimaced 'I feel like I'm walking with lead shoes..' Cut short Ceron eyed the man dusting off his cloak, his still standing partner, looking beyond light of what appeared a street...

Once more the man dashed forward with force, then smiled throwing his cleaver aiming for Ceron gut as he ran. Still Ceron didn't move, nor had he faltered at the sight. It arched just about to sever and disembowel, but- It ended in a thump as it's handle struck the palm of Ceron's hand. Utter surpise radiated from the man now a foot away as he went in for a high kick. Already committed the man pulled it weight faster, only to be met with searing pain. The man screamed and Ceron cut deep at the underside of his knee and across to the upper thigh. His crimson blood littering the ground, more. Yet he hadn't stopped, despite his agony grabbed hold.

Taken back Ceron's breathing went ragged, as the man choked his neck. Thinking any and all profanity Ceron flushed red and bit down, quickly bringing the cleaver from his legs to the man's hands and particular thumb as it bore chopping it off in an instant. It's gushing muck splattered Ceron's sight, the tightened grip loosened slack with blood. A distant yell brought Ceron back as the man looked to his partner, out of the neckhold- But unable to pry his hand the burly man had taken hold of his cleaver not letting go. Repeatedly Ceron kicked the him in the shin, bastardizing the already cut leg more.

The man wobbled with bloodshot eyes and profuse sweat. Still the man hadn't let go, but it was enough- As Ceron pulled his hand free, the man yelled and lobbed forward; "The fuc-" Unable to utter Ceron was bashed, the man headbutted him. The world spun, all too accompanied with nother pain' gritting teeth Ceron slid to the side ducking below the other desperate attempt, quickly curved his foot around striking the man in the face. Like a log the man fell a loud indent and pilling blood filled; Ceron let a pained exhale, before bluish streaks of light dashed a hairbreadth from his eyes. Heat scorching his cheek Ceron flew back his head. The light struck past, missing and blasting the adjacent wall in a sizzle.

The source wasn't a far reach, turning to look towards the smaller stranger, Ceron retracted from his face thumbing blood... "You shouldn't have missed." Ceron roared up from a grumble staring down the man. The scenery visibly darkened in Ceron's powering voice, vermilion-- Bright from within piercing gaze the air stood still. Bubbling out energy came all at once, a dead-like pallor flowed unto the small man as he stared to quiver. Only briefly had Ceron's vicious ire grazed him the man lost his concentration letting lose a trickle between his legs.

Wanting to end this quick, Ceron reaffirmed his grip on the cleaver, walking towards the excuse for venting. 'Just maybe, ending this here and now would abate me." Then tumbled. Barreling into the wall towards his side Ceron lost footing. World spinning, a wave of vertigo ran over, exhaustion leaked from every seam as Ceron panted leaning in sharp breaths...

...

..

It was sort of funny, I couldn't describe it.. It was something nameless, indescribable more than just a feeling. I laughed lodged between this wall and the inching floor. Trickles of whatever muck and sweat deepened all around me, like a snap of a branch it had reminded me. Perhaps something that shouldn't be thought or said, to oneself, but I didn't want to believe it no matter how much it was true... My sight grew distant as the world started to recede to darkness- Damn, passing out here would mean death.' Still gripping the cleaver I had to slit the other's throat to tie this up.

Taking steps towards the man my feet felt like tons, as if an invisible swamp battled every move. Straining eyesight I could visibly see the remnants of my energy fade' I had used too much. Nothing I could do to stop from passing out at this point, my new body needed rest... Maybe this body wasn't some kind damsel and these men were righteous hero's. Buggard, If ever was such a case- But, it didn't matter. Not in the least, this body's past was important but so was snuffing out those who wish to harm it. So I smiled, as you often do and not one you mistake as real it wasn't a fake greeting. No, it was genuine laced with all pleasantries a six inch blade could give.

I flung the butcher's tool' it was crude but it did the job. In a pang it struck, in the same stroke the man had gone limp, quiet just as death is. It was often misunderstood that death or well the act of it, regardless of the screaming- Thrashing or any futility everyone passed the same. There was no memorable cry or burned expression in this man just silence like a deflated whimper. Red trickled from his neck and that's all I needed. Only then had I let out a exhausted sigh, my body, not just throat and head were throbbing. I wanted to lie down and sleep, but I resisted my body's demand.

Much was needed to be done before sleeping. Hell all- Regardless how my body willed it, I had been sealed for how long' a few more steps wont hurt. Using the former living, now occupation corpse cloak as a washcloth wiped the muck from my arm.. The blood fell.

Its patter forming, dripping

down into something..

Trailing, filling,

like a mirror.

tip..

tap.

Why?

...

..

"Go on. pick up the knife, you can do it." Spilling over, gasping and heaving in desperate crawl, he reached. Bu-- ..

Agh, Why that awful memory, why now.. Throbbing Ceron held his head, as he turned suddenly getting up. Pried from the shallow daze, clicking tickled his ears; clacking, clickling in a set, boots? Ceron took a sullen look at the bodies as the sound drew closer, just at the corner of the forked alleyway, just beyond its dark recess out of sight. With the only thought of survival and nothing else, Ceron softly stepped knowing he had time judging by its echo. Though not enough for everything like inspecting the dead- A single sharp cleaver would do. In a stride he turned down the other forked path. Welcoming its shadowed walls and clipped doors and piles of junk, trash as suited cover.

It wasn't as if he'd gut and butcher any or all he saw' Ceron absently thought. It was more of a habit than anything else, who or what him or her, potential danger or not. If it threatened him he would take action. Behind a trimmed door-frame Ceron peaked out waiting the figure to come. All while a faint mock of a smile couldn't help but creep up. With a inwardly sigh it depend further, ..Even if I was sealed, yesterday still felt like it did. Now I look like some beggar with a toothpick.

Slowly Ceron held his hand, as a tiny shake took him' Ah.. It was downright laughable, was it unconscious- A body reflex he'd so long forgotten?.. Ceron pursed his lips at the sight, it was like something. He couldn't quite place, a emotion he would rather not find himself in. Then the sounds stopped. Without taking notice, Ceron looked up only in it's absence followed by a thud had his senses caught up.

A small gust went past, as Ceron eyed the sight of flowing red. It was hair, past the shoulders the figure crooked had hands covering their face. Much as Ceron could tell, then a scream. More akin to a shrill, a woman laced with panic had seen the laying bodies and stumbled backward. Begrudging his circumstance Ceron remained where he was, whoever had found the bodies didn't seem affiliated' well, in any sort of meaningful way.

And casually pilfering though the dead man's coat pockets would raise some eyebrows; letting out a scoff Ceron looked at the blade he clutched, "And so would this." Placing it on the ground Ceron took to his rear view, as it beckoned attention.

Taking a quick glance back, going forward Ceron exited the alleyway's mouth and gutter rat dream. Raising an arm to block the light, a flush of sensation ran overhim nearly blinding as his eye's adjusted, a vast crowd meandered in the main road. With no time to lose Ceron dove right into the sea of people, surpising or not like a cog he had fit in. Some parted, but most cared little- Walking idly Ceron glanced back oncemore, 'No one seemed to follow him, most likely he had gone unnoticed, still unease didn't settle as he took in the surroundings.

...Buildings of various sizes, shapes stretched in all directions for all he could see, alluding to a much bigger town than Ceron originally thought, perhaps even a small city. In the center of the town, a gigantic spire dwarfed the sounding landscape; it peered into the skies above, seemingly piercing the heavens, the top was an obscurity. Thick coil's hung from its body extending towards the surface intertwined within these multiple coils were huge dirigible's dotting the sky. These airships often docked with the spire, transporting people and goods to their destinations each ship varied in size, color and design. Ceron saw the streets were constructed from a reddish brick, some with exquisite carvings of various plants. Even though the grit and grime of everyday life it's excellent craftsmanship was evident, the buildings gave off a romanesque aura, with brilliance an intense white shimmer radiated from every corner. A slew of wooden trading cards cluttered the area, giving a feeling of wealth and prosperity. Ceron knew that this was just appearances, nothing is what it seems at first glance.

In the crowd faces that didn’t fit were subtly visible, there maybe unnoticed by most but with keen precision one could spot it. Some looked lifeless as if drones, others with jeering smirks of superiority.

Finishing observations, for a few minutes Ceron regained his train of thought. "I'm already tired from that short encounter, I need to find some rest." ... "Also have to search the memories of this body, special herbs are required and my energy hasn't fully recovered." Deep in thought, Ceron bumped into someone, the impact caused both of them to fall backward onto the dirt. Knocking Ceron out of his pondering he got up, "Sorry! Should've watched where I was going." Ceron spoke while extending his arm, to the young lady still on the ground. "Oh... It's you Asriel what are you doing here? Shouldn't you supposed to be studying." Giving a stern expression she stood up, rejecting Ceron's hand, quickly dusting off her skirt. She wore a bluish bustle skirt embroidered with flowers, coupled together with a gray top and ebony shoes. Furthermore, there was long blonde hair reaching down to her lower back, and eyes that were a shimmering green complemented by her pale skin.

So Asriel was whoever resided in this body before. Ceron inwardly thought, "Ahh just going for a walk, it's a beautiful day isn't it?" Ceron smiled while looking up at the clouds."Trying to change the subject hmm? I'm no fool you look like a mess!" She declared while pointing at Ceron, causing anyone witnessing this too briefly stare. "Mph... Well, no matter it's none of my business but you really should wash up, I'm heading back to the lodge if you want to join me." "I would be delighted too." Ceron replied. Using Asriel would be a good cover, I don't know who may be watching... Still those two in the alleyway... Ceron thought passively, followed the youth's lead.

...

After a short walk, the youth quickly gestured "We're here!" The lodge came into view, it was distinct compared to the rest, out of place like a cold breeze on scorching summer days. Assembled from timber its appearance struck a rustic feel. Standing three stories tall, a rickety ambiance was present in comparison it was a lot smaller than the other structures around. Its roof was slanted seemingly about to fall off, additionally part of it already did. "Quite the place... It's basically in shambles!" Ceron thought hopeless, he had no choice this would be a temporary safe haven. A defeated look surfaced on Ceron's face as he followed the youth.

The doors were a dark mahogany embellished with iron studs additionally dual door knockers were present both having massive rings. Slim bared windows showed themselves, positioned by the top, sides of the door. Approaching it the youth knocked a deep sound vibrated through the doors soon shuffling could be heard on the other side, coming closer then stopping. A myriad of latches, locks, and levers were twisted and pulled once the clanking stopped the door opened revealing a man. The man's apparel was adorned with a white dress shirt, and grey striped trousers furthermore a black morning coat covered his entire upper half its backside reached down to his thighs. He also wore white gloves and a speckled black tie hung from his collar, lastly, he had black dress shoes.

Seeming to be in his youth, a thin physique with short silver hair, dark brown eyes. He had an elated expression. "Ah, Beth welcome back from the marketplace." The man said while smiling, reaching for Beth's bags. "Thank you Travis" Beth spoke giving appreciation to the manners Travis displayed, also handing him her bags. As they entered the lodge a rigid expression surfaced on Travis' face upon seeing Asriel following behind Beth their eyes locked as he walked past. Ceron gave a slight smile, raising a shock from within Travis.

Strange, even here Asriel isn't welcome. Ceron thought with slight pity as he passed Travis, entering the lobby. Polish and gleam, the interior laid with a vast assortment of extravagant furnishings compared to the dull outside, as though a completely different building. Moreover a bright chandelier suspended itself, hung by thin wires it's glass lights seemed to float, it brought attention to a rolling staircase that reached toward the second floor in the room's center. Stretching far, corridors were extended on either side spun off in various directions to hallways and supposed other rooms.

Finally a few steps ahead on a red carpet, Beth turned facing Asriel giving a sly smile. "See you later, remember to get some rest you look awful." She spoke then reached into her pocket, pulling out a strange bottle brimming with a bluish liquid and extended it with curtsy. "Hmm what's this, for me?" Ceron said as he grabbed the slim bottle inspecting it slightly, its.. liquid is quite thick.. "It will help your wounds." Beth continued, seeing Asriel's approaching denial, "Think nothing of it. Drink it before you sleep tonight."

A strange glint reflected in her eyes, "Thank you Beth." Ceron replied as she nodded and followed Travis to a parting hallway. Standing alone Ceron took a quick look, an odd sensation felt on him, the lobby was peculiar large but despite its beauty few seemed to be about; There was no reception besides that other youth, "Odd.." Escaped his lips as Ceron looked to the ceiling, strange runes were erected. Something unknown to even him.

A brief moment, Ceron considered going back outside but dismissed the thought as he felt a metallic object lining his pocket... A key, and only that he found in the search of anything remotely of value in his pockets.. "Those two who mugged this Asriel, did they take any of his belongings? Ugh, I should've checked." Ceron muttered, closer inspecting it the key was embellished with the numbering "041" It must be this vessel's room.

...

It wasn't long till Ceron found himself searching the halls. Barely passing a few figures on his way, mostly looking human and others not so. But nevertheless, despite his nonchalant smile and nod, only scorn left in the eyes that past him... Above the doors each were labeled in numbers of presumably who occupied them, ever so often a shift would occur. This certainly isn't a normal building, upon thinking that Ceron could see moving walls and a disorderly path before him, it must be some type of magical building. Unless.. Someone slipped a hallucinogenic when he wasn't looking.

After dozens of echoing steps, Ceron stood before his newly found room. It seemed just like any other, from its outside appearance the brown door looked sturdy and firm, just as Ceron began to put the key in he stopped... Feeling the door, sliding his hand around its frame inspecting its design and alluding to anything in the lines of a mechanism. Lastly knocking on the door around its keyhole, not that he could really detect any traps- Well any properly designed ones that he’s in this lower form, Still "Never hurts to check..."

Putting in the key Ceron gave a slight twist, checking its interior before immersing himself inside. Covers shouldn't be taken at face value... Was the only thing that came to Ceron, as blotches of dust clouded his face, the room was small and even a little dingy no bigger than a few feet. Taking it all in, perhaps a little bit too much, a vile stench wafted something most certainly had died. Coupled with creaky wooden flooring, added moldy smell "Walking" around only a bed, cabinet and small window, mirror came to view.

"Incredibly sub-par but.. This is about discrete as they come." While mulling over the room Ceron began to check its crevices starting with the cabinet, it seemed out of place. The fine layer of dust that had cemented itself seemed to thin around it. Either it had been recently cleaned or, it was a new addition? Pulling out the drawers, linen attire of assorted but dull colors lined the insides, held little in terms of comfort or cleanliness. Each appeared to have small fissures or tears. Well most besides the partially bloodied attire Ceron now possessed, perhaps the most clean out of the bunch ironically.

After checking for any false bedding, Ceron took his attention to a pile of white sheets next to a quill. The parchment was rough, but still held writing... Scribbling of an unknown tongue, another mystery... Not able to read it Ceron put it down, inspected behind the cabinet, under the bed and found nothing of particular interest. Lest a dead rodent was considered shocking given this room's state. "..." Ceron dwelled as he sat on the bed, mulling over the room and his circumstance. All the while the bed seemed to groan as if his weight agitated it, the bed itself wasn't anything remarkable by any normal standards those left in piles along the road could stand a better fit.

A grimace slipped onto Ceron, his revival wasn't by any means what he imagined. Hell, if you could even call it that' was it blind chaos or luck which brought him to feel the tender embrace of prickly sheets and dusty air? I wasn't one for letting my fate be decided by luck, shit if I'm going to let any like it decide my future... "I need to extract this vessel's memories, there is only a few ingredients... The Elfer Herb, does it still exist? Or the swampland of Azuel for that matter. Ceron bit his lip slightly, gauging the possible length of time under the cowl of darkness, much of the architecture he saw was odd, so was this building and numerous figures he briefly gauged in the city streets.

Some amount of time had to pass, obviously this city didn't sprout overnight or simply will itself into existence. Less if this is even the place of where I was originally sealed remains to show itself- Ceron hunched, a subtle pain crept up as if stroking a gentle fire it bubbled at every end. A pained expression trickled out with a staggered sigh, "So its begun already..." In a low voice lacking any joyous tone, Ceron massaged his temples. It was hard to tell, straining his eyes to the hardest a small shimmer could be spotted, in waves it distorted the surroundings a vague green around his body and quickly receding.

The energy from my resurrection lingers in this vessel, as if a foreign entity it has to shed, a nights rest may mitigate these effects... Ceron pulled off his shirt, to the mirror finally realized his newly founded youth. It hadn't seemed past a day were he'd begun trimming grays in his hair. Hard pressed to a sly smile, this body had potential, the face of a young adult. It wasn't surpising his youth had yet to be utilized, the magical drain had caused an unceasing ache, if he was still counting decades. Ceron took the bottle Beth had given him, "Some sort of healing potion...?" Ceron pondered, giving it a small twirl. Twisting its cork, a strange but familiar smell came. Widening, Ceron drew back.. My.. My.. Ceron couldn't help but chuckle, did he play the naive idiot too much? "Acid..?" If not the farthest thing from the realm of healing.

Maybe coming here wasn't the greatest of choices. Sealing the cork back Ceron rested it on the dresser beside him, slightly perplexed at what this Asriel must've done to attain such a warm reception. A faint image of his throat being liquefied quickly past. "Mmm.. Screw that." Not wishing for that reality to bear any fruit, Ceron got up; Though in a pained motion, his legs tensed throbbing and restricting... Dammit, I really need to rest. Regretfully, the room was courting company, his shortsighted legs agreed. Anymore strain could be detrimental to stabilization of revival... Coming to terms Ceron pulled a chair at the bedside and quickly secured it to the door frame and again checked that he had locked the door with a twist of his key.

Only a dead man regrets locking twice'

Resting firmly back on the bristle like sheets, Ceron moved the covers feeling another sheet of parchment. It seemed of a finer cut, a vast difference in quality from those lying on the dresser. Ah.. unlike its brethren it's actually readable being in his known language. It seemed far in similar to an application; It probably was, Ceron thought as he thumbed down the page contents... Asriel Elrad, son of a former king's Knight Nicholas Elrad. Age Sixteen, academy not assigned." Further down, it named temporary residence "OnFerg's Lodge." and went to describe Asriel's physical appearance and association, something had been written but it seemed now to be crossed out.

Ceron sighed and rested on his back, staring intently out the window. Despite shining rays beaming in, his eyes demanded rest... Maybe if this vessel had been but a sheepherder, I could relax easily. But no I had to choose the one near death and nobility entangled in magic... Ceron solemnly thought as he drifted off into begrudging sleep.

...

It never stops,

Nor does it sleep.

Yet it dwells, residing

in minds that quickly cease.

By passages it quietly brought.

Undying, unending it passes in

the farthest reaches, touching all

that it meets, incurring peace.

Yet none see its face, till reflections

of longing are shown.