Alexei leaned against the nest, Ash's expressions had been varied, starting with a raised brow, then displeasure, then tilting his head. Eventually a small smile graced his lips as he rested while nodding along with the music.
Sebastian had been watching Lord Reece avidly, his own tension had been a physical representation of each expression. As the music ended, he went down on a knee, then the rest of his family did the same.
Ashton pushed himself up, "An offering that speaks to my heart, though the message..." Ashton trailed off as Neolani leaned back with a stern countenance. Despite Sebastian's ignorance regarding the offering process, his intuition had been remarkably accurate.
"Was it a gift, or a plea?" Alexei asked neutrally as he locked his fingers behind his head. While Ashton may accept the gift as an offering, there was a difference. Though if this Duke was so favored... that at least meant they could reason with him. To an extent anyway.
"I personally thought of it as a plea," Neolani stated coolly looking down at the kneeling group.
Ashton settled back down, "While the execution was... imperfect. I can see that at least half took pride in what they believed would be an appropriate offering."
Neolani let her lip curl, "Then at least half knew better."
Sebastian stiffened, but didn't move or speak as the conversation continued. He had already thrown the dice, so now he could only hope they landed in his favor.
Ashton glanced at Neolani as he twisted a bit of her hair between his fingers, "Am I being biased?"
Neolani took a deep breath, "I am sure I am."
Alexei tilted his head back and forth a bit, then shrugged. "If it were up to me, the capital would have been burnt to ash then we'd salt the earth. Unfortunately, you are the one they are hoping to appease. So, are you?"
Ashton glanced over the Carlos duchy, "Hmm, I like their pride, I appreciate their cunning... and even the tact. I will accept this offering. Step forward Duke Carlos." Ashton called with a light smile. When Neolani started to move, he gently tugged on the lock of hair still in his grasp.
Sebastian stood, his knees weren't as forgiving as he leaned on his cane. "Young Song," Sebastian greeted as he stood in front of Ashton with Alexei and Neolani on either side of him. Ashton sat up, his demeanor changed, he suddenly seemed larger... and the power of his voice echoed through Sebastian's soul.
"A warning will be my gift, Lucian will either rise up to be the light the empire needs, or the darkness will engulf more than just the damned." Ashton informed as his gaze bore into Sebastian's. Ashton reached into Sebastian's soul, burning away the build up of influence. Of all the higher nobility, Sebastian had the greatest resistance. Still, resistance wasn't immunity. Clearing the accumulating filth would help the Carlos Duchy keep a sound mind in the days to come.
Sebastian staggered back, surprisingly Alexei gripped his arm so he didn't fall. After a moment Sebastian was able to stand without assistance. "May you fly strong and free." Sebastian couldn't stop the slight cracking of his voice as he bowed, but just speaking had been a feat.
Ashton grinned down as Sebastian stood up, "Time is not on your side, go." Sebastian gave a quick nod. As he gathered himself he realized his steps were lighter... this thoughts clearer. If Lord Reece had not said anything, neither would he. Not with how the others were already eyeing him distrustfully.
Alexei leaned back against the nest again, "Perhaps the Carlos duchy could join the pride?"
Neolani watched the family surround Sebastian, "No, while they might survive... they would not thrive among the pride."
Ashton glanced down at Neolani, "I agree... and it's a pity. Now, my raging Ember, look at me."
Neolani rolled her neck so she could meet Alphonse's polite... yet distant gaze. No... he wasn't Alphonse... but he was different from Ashton. She watched as he kissed the tip of her hair.
"Will you remain upset with me?" Ashton asked leaning in so his breath shifted her hair. Her growing displeasure was amplified the closer she was. Ashton could separate his own emotions from the rage, dissatisfaction, disgust, hatred, but the continuous negative emotion was taking a toll on his already weakened state.
Neolani didn't flinch, "I love you."
Ashton halted as he looked into her eyes. After a moment Ashton drew back, "I choose you Ember, your happiness is all I ask."
Neolani took a deep breath, "I know," then she smiled as she took Ashton's hand and used it to cup her face, "Now let us give you a proper offering."
Ashton leaned forward kissing her forehead, "I am rife with anticipation." While the outright rage had been surpressed, it still rolled beneath the surface.
Alexei waited until the... light came back to Ashton's gaze, "Since we could not be first, at the very least we must be the best. How else will our hearts fill with pride?"
Ashton grinned, "Quite the boast, shall I close my eyes while I wait?"
Alexei scooped his wife up, "No need, we are always ready. Come my love, shall we preform a duet, or a chorus today?"
Neolani gave a small smile, "A duet, I will need a few moments to change. That should be long enough to clear the stage."
Alexei nodded to three of the warriors who immediately set off to fetch the others. Neolani leaned against the nest to pull on on anklets after removing her sandals. She also let her hair down as two warriors helped remove her chest plate.
Ashton watched with a light smile as more than three dozen warriors came jogging in with drums of varying sizes. The ratio to men and women was even, most removed their chest plates and footwear but didn't replace them with anything.
Agapi clutched the nest closer as several of the warriors' moved tables and chairs, some chairs even had people still in them. After less than ten minutes Neolani cast an enchantment that dimmed the light.
All of the warriors, Neolani and Alexei included started off on one knee presenting their hearts silently.
Neolani stepped forward alone as the music started, the little light reflected off her bracelets and anklets. She reached out slowly, her voice was softened, but determined.
When the tears are rolling down
Like a river to the ocean
And there's no one else around
As Neolani stood she kept her movements, slow, controlled, determined. This was more than her promise, this was her answer.
You know that I know that you know that
As the music picked up speed she raised one arm while keeping eye contact while her feet stomped lightly so her anklets chimed in time with the beat.
I'll be there for the highs and lows
Give you mine if your heart gets broke
By your side when you're all alone
I will be there
Neolani was half bowed when she presented her heart, but stood straight for her vows.
As she continued to dance in a slow circle, all the female warriors followed her rhythm in the background.
I'll be there, I'll be there, I'll be there for you
I'll be there, I'll be there, I'll be there for you
Alexei slowly stood, but didn't make an entrance just yet.
When you're down d-down on your luck
There was the briefest pause before Alexei stepped forward, while his movements were nearly identical they were less... enticing and more determined.
I'll be patient, I will wait
Until you're ready to be open
Alexei had his arms outstretched with a slow grin spreading as Neolani and he kept eye contact with Ashton. Alexei was only half a step forward as the rest of the men stood but didn't join yet.
Everybody (Everybody)
Needs somebody (needs somebody)
And you got me
You know that I know that you know that
Alexei's movements slightly deviated from Neolani's as he patted his own chest while she raised her arm so the light caught her bracelet again.
I will be there
Now all the warriors were singing, but only Neolani's and Alexei's could be distinguished.
When you're down d-down on your luck
I'll be there, I'll be there, I'll be there for you
Everyone except Neolani knelt as she stepped forward almost directly up to the nest. Her voice was almost a whisper, though all could still hear her.
I'll be there for the highs and lows
Ashton smiled as he kissed the tip of her hair as she twirled away. Though admittedly, twirl may not have been the best description for how fierce her actions were.
I'll be there for you
(Song writters: Ian Zachary Franzino, Andrew Haas, Jacob Torrey, Michael Matosic, Sarah Blackwood, Giancarlo Nicassio. I'll be there; Walk off the earth.)
All of the Inago awaited Ashton's judgement.
Ashton smiled, "My favorite offering thus far." Ashton raised his hand as if he had caught something, then blew lightly so a small burst of feathers floated over. Each feather landed on their marks, glowed for a moment, then dispersed.
Alexei gave a formal bow, then the rest did the same while Neolani returned to the nest.
"The Pride does vow, to offer our everything." Neolani explained, while Ashton had increased his bond, he had not accepted them formally. Their bond remained once sided.
Ashton cupped her cheek. "I know. Now come bathe in my fire." He didn't miss the hesitation in Neolani's gaze but pretended not to understand.
The rest of the Inago quickly settled around the nest to start their daily channeling. The more familiar they were with Ashton, the easier to use his beast mana. Since normally only the leading priest had such an honor none dared slack off.
Zane watched the show... they had been... amazing. While the choreography had been mostly simple they had all been in sync. Not to mention, having the chief warrior and Regina participate. Zane shared a look with Rommel who nodded.
Rommel nodded, then his lips twitched, I can't hold a note to save my life... he mouthed after a moment. Truly, dying bears had draw more appreciation than his attempts at song. One night in particular came to mind... after he'd slain the leviathan he and his closest men had been celebrating in the sea port. His men singing of the glorious battle, in his drunken stupor he'd joined in. The dozen mugs of ale had douse more than his clothes that night, he'd been dog piled, gaged, and threatened that if he ever sang in their presence again they would ensure his family line ended with him.
Zane's lips twitched as he recalled the celebration after his uncle had slain the leviathan. If he needed an inquisitor... well his uncle was versatile. Zane may not be the heir, but he'd taken his studies seriously. While he could sing, he was not exceptionally gifted... guess we will practice together. He mouthed back. Surely his uncle could learn to play an instrument. Rommel's face fell as he looked at the girls who looked a little more confident.
Lucera quickly drew their attention back to the Inago all sitting around the nest. Their marks were starting to glow while Neolani and Melia sat with Ashton, "Are they... channeling his beast mana?"
Zane watched closely, "Yes, I think they all have the ability to draw on his power."
Rommel rubbed his chin, "I do believe we should start making friends, yes?"
Jantje watched silently, "For now, Maricar will send gifts." As their offerings had been accepted, any more could be seen as currying favor. Gifts on the other hand did not have to be formally acknowledged.
Zane glanced over Jantje, "Caution steers the vessel for a thousand years. For now, let us meet with the four tigers." The tiger nations were a little different, there were no last names for the imperial family as they took on the name of their countries, but their children would take on the mother's family name.
Rowena of Lolland, Tania of Nuuk, Lamont of Puyallup, and Noelle of Kake all had strikingly golden orange cat eyes. While individually their nations power was rather diverse, since they were all direct descendants for the most part, they were considered city states of a single nation. Their combined territory was about the same size as Adar, and combined forces would make them the third most powerful nation.
All the women of direct lineage could use their ancestor's strength and senses, but none had made an ascension as of yet. A few even boasted the ability to create claws.
Zane nodded in invitation, unlike most non-aggression pacts, or alliances. The Tiger nations allowed their most promising youths to negotiate national affairs. As of now, Adar and the tiger nations had only verbal promises of friendship.
Rowena nodded as she waved for the tables to be set beside each other. "Prince Zane, how have you been?" Rowena was 17, with fiery red hair, and pale skin. She was the oldest of the four tigers present.
Zane nodded as a servant pushed their chairs in, "I've been well Princess Rowena, I heard you managed claws this year. Congratulations."
Rowena grinned, "Many thanks. Perhaps we might have a sparring match, I heard you defeated two elite guards at this year's competition. Your fiancé must have been ecstatic."
Zane gave a small chuckle, "One day I might defeat her greatest hero, until then... I will continue my journey for such lofty endeavors."
Rommel grinned, "Enough about that, Princess Tania, Princess Noelle, prince Lamont, how were your travels?" Tania made a pointed effort to open her fan dramatically, her black hair was a deep contrast to her golden eyes and pale skin, though she looked fine in her vibrant blue dress something was off. Rommel admitted... it was probably because she was usually in pants with a sword, so the dress drew more attention to her slender but athletic frame.
"Rushed, who'd have thought! A new beast! In our lifetime. So, what are our chances?" Tania asked using her fan to cover half her face as she eyed the warriors... they all looked yummy.
Rommel's eye twitched, it always surprised him how... forward the tigresses were. Unlike almost every other nation of power, women didn't have to be chaste in their nations, they were only expected to become monogamous once officially married, without divorce as a viable option for quarreling couples. Not only had there never been a recorded divorce, spouses caught cheating were publicly drawn, then quartered. Many of the tigers would wait until their mid-thirties to find a committed partner.
Lucera also used her blue fan to half cover her face, "Not good, apparently he's still considered a minor. Though... the Inago are making options known."
Tania glanced over the warriors, "We'll keep that in mind. Of course... there are plenty of options." Tania waggled her eyebrows at her cousins. Lamont grimaced looking at the table.
Lamont let his light orange hair drape over his eyes as he glanced at the nest, "Don't pull the tiger's tail Tania."
Noelle slowly fanned herself while watching the new beast. He was handsome, and strong but... no need to rush. "I agree, Queen Mother was adamant about our priorities." She reminded glancing over her cousins; her black hair had a single red streak.
Because Noelle was the first to have claws at 6 years old, she was their generational leader. Rowena and Tania nodded deferentially even though Kake was the second weakest of the four countries.
Zane raised a brow, usually Noelle was the quiet observer... seems the tigers had hidden their claws well.
Noelle only glanced over Zane then continued to fan herself. Noelle watched as the Inago were actively channeling the young beast's mana, they were clearly training their ability to open and distinguish the conduit from their individual mana.
Tania chatted with Lucera and Rowena while they watched the warriors. Many only lasted a few minutes before standing guard closer to the gryphons.
Agapi watched Ashton's mana, he had settled much faster today. She rested her neck over the nest so she acted as a blanket. Agapi closed her eyes as she let the mana run through her and recharge her personal mana core; as well as start to fill the legendary indigo mana core on her breast plate. Raw power was not the only reason to follow another. Such boons would draw many to the young one's banner.
Zane couldn't stop the jolt of surprise with the large gryphon burst into flames, luckily his reaction was not the most exaggerated.
Rommel jumped up but Zane gripped his arm. Rommel hesitated when none of the Inago seemed surprised, "Well... see something new every day yeah?" Rommel asked sitting down. Seeing a giant half lion, half bird burst into flame was usually a cause for worry.
Agapi was disappointed when she reached the safe threshold of accepting Ashton's overflow of mana less than five minutes later. She stood up shaking out her feathers to put out the flames, "Darvic."
Darvic immediately swooped down and placed a wing over the nest as the rest of the gryphons gathered closer. Soon all of them were aflame, many fell to their knees from the unexpected tsunami that crashed through them.
Most of the gryphons only lasted a minute or two before breaking contact and wobbling away to recover. Darvic lasted the longest at just over five minutes before he nearly collapsed on the nest.
Melia jumped out of the nest to help Darvic absorb the mana. While Darvic was more than capable of absorbing the mana himself, it was the difference from overeating then going for a walk versus just laying down.
Agapi chortled at Darvic's competitiveness, given a few decades he may very well become a true guardian grade beast. If they all constantly accepted Ashton's mana over the next decade, they might all increase to the next beast grade.
Neolani kept constant watch over Ashton's mana channels, they were smoothing out, then hardening. Unfortunately, the separation from his human mana channels was tenuous at best.
Alexei was sweating from the effort to stay in "direct" contact with Ashton's mana. If Alexei's channels were akin to a sword being reforged, Ashton's mana was the anvil forcefully adding and widening the blade. Not exactly painful, but strange and strenuous in its own way.
Neolani started to slowly ease out of Ashton's Sea of mana. While it had felt like a lifetime, not even thirty minutes had passed. Everyone was slowly gathering their wits as more warriors had come just to stand guard.
Ashton opened one eye to glance over the tensed Azarius. "Peace Azarius."
Azarius jolted at Ashton's much deeper rumble, but he forced himself to relax as he smiled, "Who me?"
Ashton raised a brow, then flicked Azarius's forehead. "Cheeky little one. Go play."