Inari: If that is your desire and driving force, then remember that pride. Do not fall into the same mindset of ‘someone such as I’. If you wish to be seen as an equil, then you must act as if you believe that to be the truth. Otherwise, no one will ever believe that you and they can stand on the same level. That must be your first step.
Rozyus: Old habits are hard to shake… but I’ll… I do my best. If not for my sake but for theirs.
Inari: The first step is always the hardest. But that you are willing to take that step is the first victory. *Bright smile* I’m rooting for you, Rozyus!
*With their meals finished and a little trepidation in their hearts, Rozyus and Inari leave the boy’s room and, as instructed by the Robed Figure, made their way through the halls towards Parame’s rooms. As they walked, they could occasionally hear quiet mutterings of those who had already seen what had happened or had heard rumours. However, they spoke quietly, too afraid to truly draw attention to themselves after the display, that the muttera were more like the hissing of fire. Thankfully, they remained out of the way, however, allowing the duo to continue unaccosted. Inari, as a multi-faceted god with many domains, was used to appearing unaffected, even if inwardly, they worried for their younger friend. As it was, much like the resolve he had previously had back during their talk, Rozyus also kept his gaze fixed ahead, though Inari was willing to bet the boy’s wolf-like ears could pick up what even Inari’s ears could not.
Unfortunately, before they could reach the rooms of Parame, it seemed that several people had either more courage than the other gossipers, or they had more anger than sense, stepping forwards as the duo approached, an ugly rage glistening in accusing eyes as they fixed Rozyus with disgusted expressions. Not wanting a repeat of before, Inari subtly shifted so they they could easily intervene if things took a turn for the worst*
Armed God 1: So called ‘Monarch’ of… Half Breeds, Rozyus XXXX. You have been accused of attempted Deicide and unprovoked battery towards various pantheons.
Rozyus: Ooh, pulling out the title and all? *Sigh, dark smile* Then I guess there is no point in me-
Armed God 2: I would suggest holding your tongue. *Stern tone* You will be coming with us and you will be judged according to law of the realm. You have no choice.
*There was a third god among the group. Snapping his fingers, the boy was in shackles with the third god pulling hard at the chain. The force of the tug sent the stumbling, somewhat. And with a huff. The boy turned to his companion.*
Rozyus: You do not need to trouble yourself with this matter. The worst that will happen is my banishment for this place. Apart from that, they have no-
*There was a swift kick from the third god, his thick copper boots struck the boy’s back with such force that the jeweled embellishment had dug into the boy’s flesh and was now beginning to stain the cream fabric a shade of dark crimson.*
Armed god 3: *Spit* You bastard! You think a dog such as you has the right to decide your fate?!
Rozyus: A-a dog am I? Me or those pathetic excuses for god's *chuckle*
Armed god 3: The audacity! We were so kind as to give your kind our scraps and you bite the hand that feeds you! You dare harm other children… You’re lucky I’m bound to bring you before the court… or I would have slain you were you stood for cursing my children. *Darker tone.*
Inari: Sir, enough! While it is true that he is to be brought before the court, to respond in such a way, even if the person in question is a criminal or is not of the same standing, all this will do is seem an infringement to justice when the perpetrator has yet to even be seen by the judge! Besides, the only person who can finalise this person’s fate is Fate herself. Instead of grandstanding and angering Lady Parame, instead show yourself to be the better person. Innocent until proven guilty in the eyes of our Realm’s judgement.
*Inari, despite their anger at the display, made sure to bow to the other gods, if only to play to their ‘superiority’ as their seniors*
Inari: Please. If only until the judgement is made, as beings who govern the justice of our lands, I would hope that it is not only through fear that we must all obey. Once the judgement is passed by the courts, then…...then punishment would be just. But before then, all it would do would prove yourself merciless to those who truly are innocent in our realms. Younger gods such as myself, we need pure and just role models after all. I beg of you.
Armed God 3:.... Pure and just?! *Angered tone*
Armed God 2: Our children were PURE!!! and yet this…. Monster corrupted them! Making them an in-between! They can no longer stay with us… IT deserves EVERYTHING it gets! And no, Lady Parame has no voice in the matter. Her biased voice would corrupt the verdict.
*Turns towards the boy*
Armed God 2: No one will come to your aid this time, boy. And we will relish in your remise.
*The boy was dragged away into the courtroom, to await his fate. Inari clenched their fists, biting down the urge to rebel, to say more, to tear the chains away from their friend, however, they pushed down that recklessness. Doing so would only get themselves in trouble and Rozyus into even more trouble than he could afford. Instead, they took a deep breath and let it out slowly, centering themselves. No, what was best for them was to be the witness they were - that would be far more help.
Besides, no matter what those people said, Parame would have a voice. After all, you cannot hide from fate.
That in mind, they straightened, a determined fire in their eyes and moved to take their place in the court. While Rozyus was not fully innocent, they would not allow the boy to be tried for things that they did not commit. They would stop this farce. Or at least, they would delay things enough for Mother to arrive.
Many hours had past since the trial started. The boy was barely given a chance to voice a counter argument to defend himself, knowing his recent actions were going to affect the way the gods would see his kind and his words would affect them still, be it for the better or worst.*
High Court Member 1: I believe we should, with haste, bring this matter to a close.
*The High Court began to talk among themselves for a while, before addressing the boy*
High court member 2: Monarch of Half Breeds, Rozyus XXXX, you have but two options before you: One - undo the curse upon the children you wrongfully harmed, and be banished to the under realm. Or two - be put to death by the parent pantheons of each of the children you attempted to kill.
Rozyus:...
*The boy leaned back in the chair, his bangs covering his face, bruised from the assault the armed gods who brought him to the court. The boy broke out in hysterics. What started out in a giggle morphed into a psychotic bellowing, ringing throughout the halls, chilling the gods to the bone.*
Rozyus: Ahahahah! This trial is a joke. Just like you, just like nearly every god in here!
High Court Member 3: WHAT!?
Rozyus: Shut it and listen for once! And then you might see past you own hubris for a moment.
High Court Member: You Dare-!?
Rozyus: *Demonic tone* I SAID SILENCE!!!
*For a moment, the boy’s eyes turned black, then back to their divine hue.*
Rozyus: *Mutter* Make me older.
*The boy’s form began to change into the older version of himself once again as he relaxed into his chair.*
Rozyus: That’s the problem with you divine sort. You know… it’s because of this ‘I’m the big man on top, and we can do no wrong’ attitude that the Lower Realm is a fucked as it is. You don’t want to listen to those you govern and you’re quick to shut down those who oppose you. Huh… so what if three of your brats are killed by ‘one such as I’? *Chuckle* How many of my siblings have you slain and dumped in the woods? How many have you mentally scarred beyond recognition? And then you label us ‘Half Breeds’, we children of two. But your little slur seems to have stuck.
I’ll tell you something good, you blind fools. Whether or not you slay me, there with always be another willing and ready to destroy a weed or two. Matter of fact, I dare you! I dare you
to.You see, these gentle flowers have thorns I’ve been the one clipping them so they stay somewhat peaceful. Take me away and these children… their YOUR children, if you so forgotten, will be more than happy to be your end.
As for the fools who laid a hand on MY siblings first… well, they already have there way out of that little curse, might I say: End there own life and incarnated into something more open minded with two functioning brain cells. Or be genuinely nice to My kin. It’s not hard now, is it?
Tell me, what exactly did my kin do that was so deserving of your hatred? Hmm? Oh, what was that? Nothing? Oh, I thought so. And what have your people done? Well, look at the evidence, look at the children's scarred bodies, tortured psyche
Rozyus & Parame: The proof in the halva, dear.
Rozyus: About time you got here. What took you so long, Mama?
Parame: In order to allow you a truly just trial, one needed to amass the actual witnesses whom were present for the event. Not only that, but it would seem that, despite it being in violation to millennia old pacts, I was not informed. *Absently brushing hair from her shoulder as she descends to her true place in the courtroom.* Not that I was never unaware.
Rozyus: *Chuckle* Oh, you even have a few divine ones with you. This should be interesting.
*One by one, the witnesses began to testify. Both the high court and the armed gods that had brought the boy to the courtroom were now silent. There were many to testify, not only about the incident, but many, many issued with the treatment of the children. All the while, the parents of the now ‘In-Between’ gods grew angrier and more impatient.*
Armed God: Just because these Vermin were knocked around a few times does not mean-
Parame: What was that you called my children? Swine! You dare to insult them in my presence? Perhaps you would also like to face the same punishment as your own ‘bastardised’ children?
Rozyus: *whistle*
Armed God 3: We still demand justice! Just because he is your blood does not mean he has the right to kill ours!!! My Lady, if the roles were reversed-
Parame: If they were, I would demand that the perpetrator would be called to justice as well, that I do not deny. However, I would also investigate the facts before demanding blood, lest I become no better than the so called ‘animal’ you are claiming this one to be. You are all Gods here - act like it, lest you be stripped of your divinity entirely.
*With a gesture to the bound accused, she continues, voice verberating through the chamber*
Parame: This child has been, and will further be punished. After all, not only he, but those he governs, have been affected by his actions. From this day forth, no longer shall they be cloaked by thick robes or make any attempt to hide their true natures. They will also no longer be silent to their injustice. Each will have a servant assigned to them who has the authority to prevent assault by them or any other and shall report to myself directly. I no longer wish for the loss of any more of my children, but neither do I wish to see them and ourselves be divided! We are of one house! Let us find peace!
As for the ‘Those Inbetween’, they will stay within my walls to care for the children. The curse placed upon them is not permanent and is reversible. It shall be lifted once they have learned to appreciate the life of the Children of Two. Once the conditions have been met, those afflicted will become pure divine beings once again. With that in mind, do these conditions please both sides?
Rozyus: if will ease the pressure off my siblings, then I don't mind.
Armed Gods: …Though not a fully desirable outcome….it's better than nothing. We do not with to see our children perish.
Parame: Does the High Council agree?
*Neither her tone nor word suggested room for opinion.*
High Council: Yes.
Parame: Excellent. Then this matter is adjourned. You all may leave. As for you little boy you are to go to my chamber. Emediotly.
Rozyus: Tsk! Fine.
*The boy, slid out of his chair, and looked towards the jury box where his friend sat, they looked concerned. The boy had noticed their expressions during the trial and how exasperated the looked. As not to worry them further the boy smiled before disappearing into a swarm of his namesakes petals.*
Parame: *Sigh* what is one to doe with bickering children such as these.
*With a sigh, she shakes her head before turning to the witness that had occasionally caught her son’s attention, a moment of fondness filling her as she gestured for the child to approach her, rather than leave with the other witnesses. Used to such subtle movements from the woman, Inari made their way to her side, glancing in the direction their friend had gone in concern.*
Inari: What is it, Mother?
Parame: If you could, can you come to my chambers. Not straight away, of course, as I have some things to discuss with my troublesome child. However, once that business is concluded, I would like to speak with you.
Inari: Of course.
*Smiling, Parame lightly places a hand on the child’s head, lightly stroking their silver hair. The smaller god smiled fondly in return, before ducking away, moving to leave. However, before they had gone a few steps, they turned back, worry on their face*
Inari: Those children….Rozyus, too….will they be ok? Perhaps I’m paranoid, but…
Parame: All is as it should be. For now, run along. I assume you have duties to attend to before we are to meet?
Inari: Ah, yes. Excuse me, Mother.
*With that, the child quickly left the room. Soon, the court was empty except for the Goddess herself, who surveyed the room in contemplation.*
Parame [Inner Thoughts]: And so the day has come, one that might govern the path of many lives in the future. It is strange, however. While I am certainly glad that the injustice towards the children has finally begin to be addressed, there are many factors that blur the true outcome from rocking the foundations. That they have begun to break from the chains that bound them to abuse and slavery is something that, as a mother, I shall look upon with pride. However, the method done so….as a goddess, it concerns me. So easily could the emotions that brought forth such change be twisted to something darker. If the desired, hoped for path is to be met, caution in where we go from here will be advised. That one holds onto a role that even I cannot speak.
*Gently, she shakes her head and makes her way from the courtroom*
Parame [Inner Thoughts]: As for right now, it would seem that there is much that must be said, long before such Fates can be focused upon.
*In a similar fashion the great goddess, left the room is a storm of petals. And entered her chamber.to fine her new delinquent son curled by the fire of here ulter.*
Rozyus:... I’m not moving…. ‘N’ it’s warm here… I’m not apologizing for my actions, either. They deserved a thousand more curses, and, to be honest, THEY deserve more, each punishment worse than the last for getting away with their crap for this long, and-
Parame: I’m aware of this, my son. Likewise, I do not ask for you to apologize. However, the way you handled the situation has much to be desired. But what’s done is done.
Rozyus: *Sulk* HUMPH! You're far too calm. When those swine die, I would have officially committed Deicide. Killed one of your own. Surely, you understand the implications, and yet...*Raised brow* Ye,t you’re calm…far too calm.
Parame: Why should I not be? Am I not the Goddess of Fate? You would not be the first, nor, likely, be the last to commit such acts. However, if it will set your mind at ease…
*With a quick hand gesture, the boy was yanked from his hiding place and levitated into the air as if plucked by a giant invisible hand. A moment later, the boy was sent flying with a great splash into one of the many pools of water, a smirk quirking her lips.*
Parame: ...Then I advise that you cool off, boy.
Rozyus: Damn you, you old crow! Uck! Now my cloths are all wet… dam it!
*Disgusted by the wet sensation of the fabric the boy hastily removes the garment.*
Parame: Old Crow….how rude of you to call your mother thus. However…
*Uncaring of the waters, the goddess moves towards her child and gently brushes damp hair away from his face*
Parame: There are reasons for my actions, reasons that you will understand in time. If you hope to truly understand, however, then first you must look at what clouds your own sight - the dark turmoil that lurks within your heart. Even now, it twists your actions in a way that, in future, I might not be able to save you or your people from. The world is in a delicate balance and you have not only the fate of yourself to consider, but that of the people in your care as well. With that in mind, I ask you to meditate, that you might clear the haze in your heart and free yourself of its shackles, for their sake, and your own.
*Gently, she places a kiss on the boy’s forehead*
Parame: In order to help you further, though it may seem more like punishment than aid for now, I am asking Sayo give you Emperor training.
Rozyus: Emperor training... seriously?
Parame: Oh yes, you are in grave need of it, it seems, especially after today. Since you have so effectively outed yourself as the Monarch of The Two at this point, then you will be treated to the same levels of education. This shall include Leadership skills-
Rozyus: That’s redundant. I already have that down.
Parame: -Etiquette-
Rozyus: Eh! I believe I’m graceful enough, don't you think?
Parame: -Diplomacy-
Rozyus: Oh, so you're going to teach me the linguistics of the swine? That should be interesting when talking to those pigs. In what note should I onk?
Parame: *Eyebrow twitching* -Basic strategy, though later I will procure you a tutor to go in more depth later once you are capable of something beyond becoming the target of world hatred-
Rozyus: Interesting might come in handy once I reform these fuckers. *Grin*
Parame: -A court education, since you seem rather insistent on returning there post haste-
Rozyus: Ah a basic education for a basic bitch… Nice.
Parame: And finer things, such as speech giving and the arts.
Rozyus: So your gonna have me paint ‘n’ sing? What am I, your son or your Court Jester?
*Finally, Rozyus was smacked over the head so hard that it drove the boy back into the pools once again, nearby attendants chuckled at the sight, feebly trying to keep their composure.*
Parame: I am beginning to think the latter, idiot child. Calling you The Fool of Two rather than the Monarch would be quite fitting with such a mouth. So you will do this training you very much need, or I can help you to drink your fair share of fountain water for several decades until you go of your own will.
Rozyus: No… nope I’m good... Crazy old woman… S-Sayo help shes crazy!!!
Parame: Oh yes, help him, Sayo. After all, he is in your care now. *Slyly grinning* Have fun with this one’s education. And good luck. It sees you will need much of it.
Rozyus: T-traitor!!!
Sayo: *Chuckle* Now now, young master, this will be fun.
Rozyus: Uck! Fat chance.
Sayo: Don't worry, I’ll find a way to motivate you, my beloved master. But before all that, won't you allow me to bathe you? The water may have healed you, but you're still rather unclean from the ordeal.
Rozyus: *Pout* Do what you want, traitor.
Sayo: *Smile* Of course, my cute Master. Now please, turn this way.
*The boy, rather annoyed in his child like ways, obeyed, but made it no less easy for the servant. Once the boy was sufficiently groomed, the temperature of the bath was raised and he relaxed in by the pool’s edge. The servant had now left to guard the child at the edge of the room.
While Rozyus was relaxing, a knock came at the door and, at Parame’s acknowledgement, it opened and Inari slipped inside the room. Their eyes flickered to Rozyus for a moment, tension easing ever so slightly to see their friend was pretty much unharmed and relaxing in the healing waters, before they turned back to Parame once again, moving stand before her*
Inari: I hope that I’m not interrupting anything, Mother.
Parame: Of course, my dear. Come, sit with me.
*With a slight smile, Inari stepped forwards, expression a little more affectionate as they took the seat beside the older god, looking up to her, carefully observing her expression with gentle eyes*
Inari: Like this?
Parame: Not quite, my child.
*With a swivel of her hand, the younger god floated to her lap. They snuggled together before she let out a sigh. Inari chuckled slightly, burying their nose into the goddess’s robes, eyes closed for a moment to absorb some comfort that they had previously been hiding that they needed. The day, while it had started with a search for a new friend, had left them in many stressful situations that went even beyond the self imposed divine duties that they had amassed in their short existence. As such, they were not going to complain at being held. However, they couldn’t help but wonder if Parame’s embrace was simply because they had not done so in a while, or if it was for some comfort for them both*
Inari:*Slightly muffled*...Are you alright, Mother?
Parame: I’ll be fine, love. These past few days have just left me drained is all. What about you, my dear? I seem to have thrown my problematic boy onto you. If it is too much, I will leave his care solely to-
Inari: No!
*Flushing slightly, they cough awkwardly and rein in their emotions to calm once again*
Inari: Ah, no, it is alright. I mean, of course, Rozyus is a friend, not a burden of any kind. I only wish that it never came to this. After all, even if their blood is not what is considered ‘pure’, Rozyus and all of the other children are still living beings who have feelings and places in this world. None of them deserve the way they are treated. I hope that maybe one day I might be strong enough, as a god, to perhaps help to change opinions about them. For now, I’m still young, my influence is still unstable. But, perhaps one day…
*The goddess hummed.*
Parame: you seemed to be quite fond of the children of two, or is a certain boy I wonder?
*She gased at the child with a knowing smile. Their cheeks were painted with a crimson hue.*
Inari: H-he is my friend. Why should I not be fond? Of course, the others are sweet in their own way as well, but Rozyus was the first to be my friend. Is it wrong to wish to protect a friend?
Parame: *Chuckle* No, not at all. May you be happy and safe together.
*Her eyes seemed to look straight though the child as her smile widened.*
Parame: Now, if I may ask, do you mind being that boys sparring partner. He’ll be needing one as soon as possible. Since you're a patron of that field, it seems most fitting, no?
Inari: Well, I suppose. It is strange that they named me patron when I am not primarily a fighter….but I don’t mind. *They look up with bright, determined eyes* I want to help any way I can.
Parame: *Hugs the child tightly* Oh my, it should be illegal to be that adorable!
*She showered the younger god with affection, before sending them on their way, directing them to the cleansing pool where the boy was sulking. Unphased, Inari made their way over, fond eyes turning to the young half blood*
Inari: Rozyus. I’m glad you’re ok-
[END]
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