Edie
*After having done some work, Severus travelled from Miller Dale to the southern mountains. The journey was long and arduous, but Severus was used to the isolation and remembered the fastest way to get there. The route he took was a winding path through the mountain range, dotted with snow-capped peaks. As usual when on his journey, he was well-equipped, with three swords at the ready: two on his left hip and one on his right. The early morning was still and quiet, with a thin layer of frost on the ground. It was quite chilly and pleasing...*

*Upon every step, he noticed that the snow layer slowly to get thicker and thicker. That reminded him of a coincidence meeting he had with Elijah, a Knotting master, who taught him the knotting techniques that he would still use till then. He sighed as he remembered about that odd moment, but all was just memory. The footsteps of the Dark Knight recklessly left behind created a trail of sunken snow. At some part of the path, if there was thinner layers of snow, he would lift his legs higher to move quicker.*

*Now and then, Severus paused to admire the beauty of the mountain landscapes, but he was focused on his target and soon began to climb higher and higher up the southern slopes.*

"If they were right... The giants would reside somewhere..."

*However, Severus' peaceful jaunt through the mountains was soon interrupted by a strange sight. As he crested a ridge, he spotted a figure ahead of him. Severus was immediately on guard, his hand instinctively moving to his sword. Surrounding this place standing large pines raising up into the sky.*
Sarah
*Off in the distance could be seen what looks like a female figure walking along the path of snow through the mountains with her back to the man. She had long orange hair that seemed to go down to her back, and was wearing a black rather high quality dress. But what stood out the most was a small orange glow coming from her hands, leaving a path of melted snow and steam wherever she walked.

Layla would just be traversing the mountains on foot to avoid being seen by any travelers in her Pheonix form. Not being able to fly very well within the cold and snow. Looking back and noticing the large knight figure behind her, not paying it too much mind as she treds through she snow slowly letting the snow melt as she walks.*
Edie
*Was that... A hell lady? Her appearance appeared to be a higher noble. However, such a fragile girl girl would do here, in the middle of the wilderness, in the path to the Den of Giants, and more important... She seemed to neglect the cold completely. Severus could pretend to be a royal knight on his way on mission to ask for more information about that person. As he planned in his mind, he raised voice,*

"Hey Miss over there. I am Severus Lavendrature, a royal knight from Miller Dale. Please, if you are just an civilian, you should not advance further into the mountain range."

*Slowly and steadily, he held his odachi firmly, ready to fly it at any moment. Because he knew that there was something about her. The amount of life energy coming from her was otherworldly. It was not like a giant, not like anything Severus had felt before. It was magnificent and superabundant...*
John
*The lady would look back down at the knight, letting out a slight chuckle as she slowly steps closer to him. As she steps closer it can be seen that within her hands are two bright flames softly flickering within her palms as they melt the snow around her. Stopping in her tracks just outside of weapons reach as the flames in her palms extinguish, but this close can be seen her eyes glowing a warm tone of orange, emitting the slightest bit of light*

"My name is Layla, Layla Runestorm. I am just a traveler, you need not worry Sir Lavendrature I am sure to watch my step. But I appreciate the voice of concern"

*She spoke with a clear mature voice, a soft smile on her face showing no form of hostility, up close he can see there are no weapons on her body, not even any traveling packs or bags. Her hands gently clasping behind her back as her eyes travel across the mans figure, taking note of his swords and his whole body that is covered with plate armor*
Edie
*Severus weighed his options, the air around him charged with the tension of the unknown. Despite Layla's disarming demeanor, his instincts screamed caution. He could not ignore the incongruity of her presence in such a desolate place, nor the supernatural warmth that seemed to radiate from her being.*

"Miss Runestorm," *Severus began, his voice steady yet imbued with a hint of curiosity,* "Your journey through these mountains is most... Unusual. Forgive my intrusion, but one does not often encounter a traveler so unburdened by the elements—or by armament, for that matter."

*He paused, allowing the silence to punctuate his words.* "I must confess, your path and purpose here intrigue me. While I have no desire to impede your passage, I am bound by duty to ensure the safety of these lands. Might I inquire as to the nature of your travels?" *What a great lie was that... He even admired himself for that.*

*Severus' hand remained close to his odachi, not out of aggression, but as a silent testament to his readiness. The mountains held many secrets, and he was determined to uncover whether Layla was a mere wanderer or a harbinger of something more profound.*

*Severus' gaze narrowed inside the metal helmet, his mind racing with possibilities. His eyes glowed as he glanced at her.* "Layla Runestorm," *He said, his tone measured,* "These mountains are treacherous, and not just because of the terrain. They harbor creatures and secrets that many would not dare to confront. It is rare to see someone so... At ease here."

*He took a step forward, his presence commanding yet not threatening.* "You wield a power that is unfamiliar to me, one that defies the biting cold and shapes the very snow beneath our feet. I must ask, what brings you here, so near to the Den of Giants? Is it mere coincidence, or do you seek something within these peaks?"

*Severus watched her closely, searching for any sign of deceit or evasion.* "And if I may be so bold, your attire and the attitude you exude are not those of an ordinary traveler. Are you fleeing, seeking, or perhaps... Pursuing something?"

*The knight waited, his senses alert, knowing that her response could unveil much about the mysterious traveler and the nature of her journey through the mountain's heart. Little did he know who was she and what could she possibly do. In fact, he did completely forget that the woman just simply ignored his malicious aura. It took him a brief moment to remember how would normal people react when seeing him. They would be filled with rage... Or fear... Or anger. Was she so brave and confident. Or she was something else? Or... She just did not reach the range of the power so that she had not been inflicted yet?*
John
*Layla watched the knight closely as he spoke, her eyes traveling from head to toe of his attire. In the back of her mind unsure as to why a knight who is suppose to be from Miller Dale is around these mountains, something seemed off but it's not something she could just assume for she did not wish for any conflict way up here in the mountains.*

"I am just a simple traveling mage, that is all there is to it. I do not have any I'll intent and travel across the entirety of Eularia is how I occupy myself. Usually I have faster means of travel but you see mountains are a bit of a hassle crossing in my years of life"

*She stepped back a little as he got closer, still being weary of this stranger in which she knows nothing about, but also she just gets a slight gut feeling that keeps prodding at her that this knight may have more to claim than meets the eye. Saying out if arms reach her manner stays the same for the most part, a warm smile across her face and a soft but clearly spoken and mature voice*

"You shouldn't be so quick to judge a mage Sir Lavendrature, we're full of limitless unknown potential. As for myself I am not fleeing or seeking anything in particular, I have faced quite a few giants within my life, some of who were quick to befriend, others were not. So I have no fear of these mountains, I just seek passage on my journey"

*She said in a calm confident manner, the only thing that she could not shake from thought is just being around this knight made her almost uneasy, a feeling she's felt before but something that just tells her to keep her distance.*
Edie
*As expected from a mysterious lady, it was hard to question her. Leave alone the possibility that she would not do something unprecedented.*

"I afraid that... I could not let you go without knowing everything for sure."

*Giants were not creatures that could joke about as they could cause devastating destruction due to their massive size. However, this lady could BE FRIEND with giants. Such a fabulous feat for a mysterious lady. Severus quickly concluded that she was for sure suspicious. Her presence was out of this world already...*

"I can tell if someone was... Normal or not by just looking at them. As I said earlier, you're just not so normal looking to me. May I ask if you attended Sihirisium's courses?"
John
"Hmmm Sihirisium... That name does not sound familiar on the top of thought. What kind of courses are these?"

*Layla said in a curious voice, hoping that this man won't cause any issues during her simple travels. Her mind thinking how this knight doesn't seem too normal himself, too much seems a little suspicious about him. She would be careful not to bring it up, as to not make him even more suspicious of her than he already is*

"If you don't mind me asking Sir Lavendrature, but what's a knight of Miller Dale doing so far in these mountains? It's just the curiosity getting to me is all"
Edie
"You don't know... Sihirisium?"

*Sihirisium was renown for their college and wise scholars. Severus had not got there himself but soon... That said, the fact that the lady had no idea what Sihirisium was confirmed that she was just... Nothing but odd.*

*He continued,* "Knights from Miller Dale are often commissioned throughout this northern region. It's our duty to be well-versed in the lands we protect." *And yet, that was another perfect lie that he admired himself again for be able to make up that.*

*The lady's ignorance of Sihirisium suggested a limited understanding of their world, perhaps even more so than Severus. The Dark Knight had improved a lot since the beginning. But there was still one thing that he could not understand, and it was this world's currency called "Coins". Well, that did not matter anyways.*

*Because of the fact that she... Might be an unknown... Ermmm... Ermm... Even Severus found that complicated...*

"Excuse me... But.. Because of your enigmatic nature I'll have to investigate furthermore."

*With a fluid motion, he unsheathed the long odachi he had been holding for the whole time. The blade gleaming ominously while he slowly pointed it at her, hinting an incoming fight. His stance was upright, assertive and not defensive.*

"Sihirisium boasts the finest college in these lands. I would suggest you going there" *Severus said, his gaze unwavering.* "But first, I must uncover the truth of your identity."
John
*As soon as the knight began to unsheath his sword, she stepped back quite a few steps, not wanting to get into a conflict if she really doesn't have to. Her hands still held behind her back as her eyes scanned the entire landscape, looking for various ledges that tower above the two a little due to the pathway being within a valley.*

"What kind of knight pulls their blade out on a lady armed with nothing but the clothes on her back? I already told you I am but only a traveling mage."

*Her entire demeanor was still very calm even while being threatened, her suspicions about him coming true. Continuing to slowly step back from the knight as she planned to get away from him if he kept being as aggressive as he was. Seeing a ledge where she could potentially blink to, to at least be above the valley a bit.*

"If you wish to know more about me there are more things to do that don't result in violence"
Edie
"The prowess dwells within you is betraying your appearance, Miss."

*He shook his head in disagree.*

"Not everyday has a worthy opponent for a knight. My apologies... But I wish to reveal that power myself."

*His glowing eyes stared at Layla, determination filled him within. After finishing his words, he quickly dashed towards her, forcing the snow under his feet to be pushed to the sides. Holding the sword firmly, it took him a mere second to slash it down at the mysterious lady.*
John
*Almost as soon as Layla hears the metal clanking of his armor as he starts to dash at her, one of her hands that was behind her back reach to the side with a bright glowing fire ball in her palms. She squeezed down on the fire ball as she lept back trying to avoid the attack as suddenly she would disappear in a small fiery explosion sending small embers all around her. She re appeared just above the pathway on a small ledge in the mountains with another bright flash of fire.*

"Well the cats out of the bag now. Now that you know the truth will you stand back, and stop this recklessness. Or do you really wish to get turned to dust up on these mountains"

*Her voice spoke out with a mature commanding authority, as he can now see her for what she truly is. Two large fiery wings adorned in bright feathers extend from her back, letting off the same effect as a roaring fire. The edges of her back dress become tattered and crackle as it burns slightly, and on the sides of her head feathers radiating a bright light sprout out. Her entire body seems to have a violent flame wisping around it, being able to feel the heat from far away as he is. She stands up on this ridge looking down at the knight, her eyes glaring and glowing as she watches him closely.*
Edie
*Severus' dead heart pounded with a mixture of awe and a warrior's fervor as he beheld the majestic phoenix before him. He smirked, as if he just hit the jackpot. The carmine eyes reflected not just the fiery spectacle but also the burning desire to engage in a fight that would test his mettle to its limits. His eyes glowed in pure excitement.*

*The air around them crackled with energy, the once serene snowscape now a battlefield where each snowflake seemed to dance in the heat of Layla's flames. The mountains stood silent, their peaks like solemn witnesses to the impending clash, their craggy faces etched with the scars of many winters.*

*Despite the disparity in their powers, Severus could not quell the thrill that surged through him. He was, after all, a so-called knight, and knights sought glory in the face of overwhelming odds. His sword, though it seemed a mere metal against Layla's inferno, was held with unyielding grip, its edge catching the light of the flames and the setting sun.*

"Your fire may be fierce, Layla," *Severus called out, his voice carrying over the embers that danced between them.* "But know this... My resolve is forged in the very same flames!"

*With a determined step, Severus advanced slowly, his movements deliberate, knowing full well that his strength was not in overpowering Layla but in enduring her assault. The snow beneath his feet hissed, melting into slush, yet he pressed on, sword raised, not as a barrier to stop her fire, but as a testament to his unbreakable will.*

The stage was set, the elements at play, and the duel between fire and fortitude began...

*Under the shadow of Layla's holy display, with a vulnerability to magical fire, especially that of a phoenix's holy flames, he had to rely on strategy and the unique abilities of his swords. But he should not let her know about his weakness...*

*Without a word, the rapier that was resting in its sheath for the whole time unexpectedly moved on it own, quickly removed itself from its protector. Its pointy end whistling as it pierced the cold air, darting towards Layla.*
John
*She looks down at him, a clear glare shooting right through his body as she stood above him on the ridge, her hands would be engulfed in flames as she held back from approaching him, not wanting this to be an up close fight if it turns into one. She specifically notices the floating sword pointed at her, making sure to not lose track of it but also keep her eyes on the knight below her.*

"You fool, I do not wish to fight you but I won't hesitate if you continue this act of yours. Lay down your weapons and we shall go our separate ways"

*Layla scoffed a little, knowing she can outrun him but being careful about his rapier. Her wings would slowly extend out from her back, putting off a display of intense heat and brightness. Slowly a few feathers would pluck themselves from the wings, gently floating above her shoulders, surrounded in a ball of fire as they aim and point at him. The feathers themselves becoming sharp as knives as she holds them above her, not wanting to provoke him or make the first move.*
Edie
*Severus shook his head, not hiding his intention. Fire might be his enemy, but he was fearless. The rapier pierced the air, flying it a suprisingly fast speed towards its only target, the heart of the phoenix. Neither knowing for sure what could possibly kill a phoenix or hurt it at a point of no recovery, he would not let this lucky moment to slip away. That was a real fight, to really understand all of his strength.*

*On the ground, his feet planted deep into it, the grips firmly attached to the sword... His eyes scanned over the feathers. They could be magical fire... He ready to sword to counter.*
John
*She stood there watching him, waiting for his move. Quickly noticing when the rapier launches in her direction, lunging to the side to avoid getting hit. At the same time her wings would quickly wrap around her body to cover her front half, using the wings as a shield to take the blow as the rapier launches to her. Moving enough so it runs along her wing, creating a large wound in the center of her wing where the rapier had cut.

While her wings shielded her body, all of the feathers floating above her body would quickly shoot in the direction of the knight, scattering a little to make it harder to dodge all of them at once. While this happened the large bleeding laceration along her would slowly start closing up, showing her incredibly fast healing rate*
Edie
*Severus's gaze was fixed on the trajectory of his rapier, but the phoenix's feathers, now a flurry of fiery darts acted up and demanded his immediate attention. The scattering piece must for causing a higher chance of hitting Severus. With his sword firmly held in his grip, a deft swing of his sword was made to counter or tear apart major attacks. But the feathers' erratic paths proved a cunning adversary, slipping through his defences to ignite his armour, hindered him in his efforts to put out the blaze.*

*The flames, though small, were voracious, burrowing in his metal-clad body and endeared itself deep into the Dark Knight's armour. It could easily reach the fragile flesh inside and sear it to the point of well-done steaks. The recovery would take not too long, still longer than usual, and use more life energy than normal...*

*That said, his pain was a mere whisper against the roar of his resolve and nature of an Undead. He lifted his eyes to the phoenix, whose wing was already knitting itself back together, seamless as the unbroken dawn, seeing her wing quickly closing itself to a point as if nothing happened. As expected, it would not be easy to damage a phoenix... The ease of her recovery posed a silent question in Severus- did she feel pain, or was it a fleeting shadow to her immortal flame? Severus, on the other hand, felt nothing but as energetic as possible. He tried to squint to see her expression after the attack.*

*The heat from her previous attack had transformed the snowy battlefield into a treacherous slush, granting Severus newfound agility. But the differences in the position gave the lady such a huge advantage. If only he had the ability to fly... He did not have time to develop such an expensive trait.*

*In a gesture almost strange and ritualistic, Severus beckoned his rapier back to his command... The rapier, loyal as a hound to its master, was flying away by the suprising counter attack, made a full sharp head turn and dashed like an arrow back to the Phoenix Lady. It focused on aiming at her back.* 

*He was still trying to make it easy, holding the urge to release more strength, knowing that her full power would potentially stronger than the feathers earlier. Therefore, he should not unleash the second beast inside his grip yet... Even though it was vibrating slightly, telling the Dark Knight to let it join with the sibling fighting up there.*
John
*As his rapier shot past her, cutting up her wing, turning her head to the side. Watching it fly around her as she turned her back to the knight down below, focusing more on the rapier rather than him. As she does so, more fire balls would slowly appear around her, rather than be her feathers engulfed in flames, these were large violent orbs of flame, the energy crackling off from them clearly tells they have a explosive nature to them.

Her attention not completely removed from the knight as she glances down at him every moment or so, but her primary focus is this blade acting like an annoying insect. At this point her attitude is slowly turning from the patient passive aggressive self she's been showing, to a more annoyed and frustrated version, the heat radiating off of her flames getting stronger and stronger making snow all around her melt almost instantly.

Her mind racing as to what's wrong with this guy and why he's being so dam frustrating with her, at this point pushing on her last nerves before she gets really tempered.*

"What's wrong with you, you damned fool. You claim to be such a knight then attack an unarmed girl all because you don't trust what she's been saying even though it's all been true. You make no sense at all"
Edie
Severus smirked slightly at the irritated Phoenix Lady. Her anger proved her aggressive state, but that was not what he demanded from Layla.

"There's nothing such a right, or wrong. I'm just trying to... Prove an invisible thing."

He gave up the defensive stance and pointed the tip of the sword at her flickering inferno flame. The trajectory of the rapier quickly shifted a minute bit, causing it to pierced through the air over Layla but did not damage her. The loyal sword made a full-stop as long as it reached Severus' side, hovering with its tip up next to the Dark Knight.

"Divine's blood..." His words mumbled through his lips. His hand reached out with his index finger touching the blood trail left behind on the shiny blade.

"I just want to assure safety... For those important to me, and myself. And you..."

He grabbed the handle of the rapier, and swung it to his side. The inertial force created caused the blood to give up the perfect blade and splash on the wet ground. As soon as he had done so, he released the sword and let it rest to its sheeth, in its own.

"Pose a great threat... To those I think deserve to live," *Those deserve to live* Here was the undead and other things, not the mindless ones, but the very unusual races, which human called them demi-human or malefactors. His plan... Was beyond anyone's imagation.*

"That said. If you decide to join *My side*. You'll be welcomed! Gracefully welcomed. Join me... In the mission of protecting those you love... Family. Friends. And so on... I'll assure... Peace for humanity and demi-humanity."

He opened his arms wide, letting go of the remaining sword in his hand which then floated on its own, as if he was welcoming her most sincerely. His glowing gaze fixed on her eternal flame... Waiting her words.
John
*Layla's attitude quickly changed from someone who is ready to fight, to just a down right confused face. A little dumbfounded at this knight would attack her, then quickly after asks her to join him, she tried to make sense of it in her head but no matter what she couldn't get it at all.*

"Tell me this, let me just pretend I'll put it passed me that you just tried to attack me. Why are you so interested in me, and what do you mean your side? What sides are there even? You say you'll want to protect those you love and want peace, but what you displayed to me here seems anything but."

*Layla glaring down at him, seeing his no longer aggressive demeanor, lets out a small sigh as she walks off from the ledge she's on. Before hitting the ground in front of him her wings would stop her fall to a gentle cushion. Still a little defensive, as her wings and feathers slowly disappear around her body, scattering into embers which the wind carries off, going back to looking like just a normal lady. Around her body though most of the fire balls disappeared when she transformed back to her human counterpart, but two of them remain on her sides, showing her slight defensive posture. Not quite trusting him yet.*
Edie
Everything seemed to go in the right direction as he saw Layla taking back her aggressive attitude, he smirked. It appeared that his words at least had affected her. His odachi slowly flew back to its sheath as keeping it there was no longer necessary. He slowly rested his hands. He knew that he would have to choose his words carefully, otherwise, all his efforts would go in vain.

*The fact that you're a Phoenix is already enough to interested me or anyone.*

"First... It's your origin really caught my attention. Your rebirth from ashes isn't just a spectacle... It's a symbol of resilience, of enduring strength that aligns with our core values."

He began, his voice a calm and resonant baritone that seemed to harmonize with the rustling leaves around them. He clenched his fist and moved to the front of him, making it even more lively along his words. Even though he was just making up all of that, it seemed to be really reasonable and remarkable.

"Your power is not just for show. It's a force... That can change the course of battles, tilt the scales of fate. In you, I see not just an ally but a force of nature that could help us achieve greatness. Your alliance with us would be more than a mere addition... It would be a transformation!"

He paused, allowing his glowing gaze to meet hers, conveying a sense of respect and comradeship.

The environment around them seemed to hold its breath, the usually chirping crickets falling silent as if in anticipation of her response. The air was thick with the scent of pine and earth, a testament to the untouched nature of the land they stood upon... The land that had been waiting for a revolution, being ruled by the new great ones, and wanting history to be written.

"The fire that you command could be the beacon that leads us through darkness... The warmth that holds the cold at bay... With you by our side, we would be a step closer to unstoppable!"

Severus's offer hung in the air, as tangible as the mist that began to rise from the earth, wrapping around them like a cloak.

"Come with us... To the dark's order. Where we will create a new world. Not bathing in blood and chaos... But... Where those like me, and others... And you can live without worrying about the future!"

He extended his hand, not as a superior, but as an equal, inviting her to join him not just in battle, but in a journey that could redefine their very destinies.

"The earlier attack was just me wanting to test myself. And also... To be able to understand you."
John
*Layla crossed her arms, looking up at the knight and glancing down at his hand extended out to her. Her mind conflicted between if she should trust him or not, the idea about helping to make the world a more peaceful place doesn't seem too bad to her, but Layla is still a little hesitant if she can really trust him, assuming these are his true intentions. But in hind sight it doesn't sound too bad, and if she doesn't like what's happening she could end up putting an end to it.*

"Your offer... Is tempting to say the least... How do I know you're telling the truth about your intentions, making the world a better place for everyone... I'll tell you this, if you can prove to me you have good intent in what you are fighting for, Ill consider joining your group. And speaking of group do you have anyone that can even vouch on your behalf?"

*It became obvious slowly she was caving in regarding his offer, whether her side that is quick to trust is a good or bad thing only time will tell. She keeps her arms crossed waiting for a response, the cracking fire balls still gently floating above her, but at this point her aggression was mostly gone.*
Edie
"All good, once everything's set, you'll see the testament..."

Severus's hands fell to his sides, a nonchalant shrug lifting his shoulders as she spoke of the proves. All of his genius he got, he spent it all in for the tempting reasons already, so he had nothing much to say. But at least, her burgeoning trust was a sign of hope.

With a deliberate gesture, he reached out in the chill air and grabbed nothingness, but that nothingness soon formed a mist in form of a pouch. From the ether, a mist began to coalesce, swirling into the form of a pouch that materialised in his grasp. If she took a closer look, she would also see that there was a leather scroll in his grip as well. Quickly, he untied the pouch and procured a handful of white powder.

"Bone meal, there's nothing special about it, available in any mundane shop," He spoke quickly as he tied the bone meal pouch with one hand and casted it skyward. As if by enchantment, it dissipated into the frigid air, becoming one with the mist.

There was only the leather scroll left in that hand after that. Then, he gently squeezed the bone powder a little bit, some spilled out and mixed with the nascent frost carpeting the ground. He then funneled the remaining powder back into the scroll, folding it with meticulous care. His hand, once again, sliced through the air, this time retrieving a short length of rope. In moments, a new pouch was fashioned, a vessel for the bone meal.

"This is my own of forging connections," Severus explained, his voice a murmur of mystery. "A conduit for future communication, both ways. For the moment, it serves a singular purpose... When the time comes, I will need you. This bone meal, implied with *My essence*, will guide my kins to you."

*Once the time has come... You will know the true me... The dead under this metal skin... One determination for the kins only...*

He slowly reached Layla, wanting to see her reaction if he went closer... Would his aura have any effect on her after on. And also for a reason, to hand her the pouch.
John
*As he walked closer to Layla, her arms crossed would get a little tighter, clenching them together for some unknown reason to her. The aura emitting only makes her body tense up, her mental and physical willpower being rather high.*

*She would slowly reach out her hand, her palm facing up so he could just drop the pouch onto her hand. Starring at this odd talisman of sorts. With a bit of a sigh, giving in to work with this knight temporarily until she knows more about this dark order. Worse case scenario if something I'll is happening she might be able to put a stop to it or inform others about it before it becomes a problem.*

"Alright... Alright I'll go along with you on this... If what you say is true then it sounds like you're fighting for a good cause . . . Just so we're on the same page, I'm still not forgetting your unprovoked attack. But *If* What you're doing is truly good for the world... Then I'd be more than glad to help"
Edie
"Just... Consider it was a bit of welcome practices," He then cleared his throat. "I'm looking forwards to your company."

After saying so, he took a few steps back to his previous position. His hurted flesh finally fully recovered after a while. Though he expected it to be shorter, at least he knew the time it would take to heal.

"Again, when it's time, I'll find you. As long as you keep the pouch."


He stared at the sky slowly turning red. A flock of birds were flying to somewhere in order up in the sky, to an uncertain horizon. The enormous mountains were like swallowing the sun and its light, leaving space for the moon to its throne.

"Well... It's getting dark.*

He turned his head to Layla to let their gazes meet.

"Sorry for having hindered you a-... Darkness may be full of mystery, but it also leads the way. May it protects your trails and adorn your flame."
John
*Layla held the pouch of powder in her hands, looking at it in a bit of a confusing way. She wasn't even sure if this thing could really have magic in it to allow communication through the world. In the end Layla just held onto the pouch looking back over at serverus, the last of the fire balls would slowly fade away around her, going back to her regular human self. Ending up trusting this knight as she gives off a small smile, her eyes meeting his, letting out a small sigh*

"You most certainly have a way of welcoming someone... So is this where we part ways? What will you need of me when you call for me?"

*She looks to the side a little, before looking up at the sky, watching the sun fade into darkness*

"And I suppose... I'm looking forward to where this journey will lead us too"
Edie
Severus let out a soft chuckle, the sound mingling with the darkness that clung to his form.

The future is a tapestry of countless threads, and this moment," He gestured to the space between them, "May well be the first stitch in a grand design or merely another fleeting encounter.

"The future is a tapestry of countless threads, and that moment," He gestured to the space between them, "Will be the first stitch in a grand design."

He assumed a casual stance, hands resting on his hips, one leg bent in a relaxed pose. That was just a mimicry of restfulness in a body that knew no fatigue...

"Me as well, I'm looking forwards for our future."

Seemed like everything was coming to an end as they all had different paths currently. But soon, all would be united.
John
*Layla took a small string , tying it around the pouch to make a little necklace, and putting it around her neck, tucking it down her dress so it can't be seen from the outside. Slowly turning around and beginning to walk in the direction deeper into the mountains. Back to her travels around the world. Thinking about it this was quite the interesting turn of events that happened, but it was a turn of events she would end up remembering for a long time. As she's walking she turns her head back to serverus and waves back at him*

"Safe journeys! I hope our paths do cross again in the future"
Edie
"You too!" Severus called out, his voice a steady rumble against the quietude of the encroaching night.

His hand raised in a final salute. Severus, standing as a silent sentinel, watched her departure.

The night descended like a curtain, the stars peeking through the fabric of the sky, casting a celestial glow over the land. The once-clear outlines of the mountains were now silhouettes against the indigo canvas, their peaks like the jagged edges of a crown.

The first snowflakes began to drift down from the heavens, each one a delicate crystal dancing on the whims of the breeze. They settled on Severus's armour, and on the ground around him, a white blanket slowly covering the earth. The snowfall was gentle, a silent symphony that played for no one but the night and those daring enough to venture into its embrace.

Severus's breath formed clouds of mist as he exhaled, mimicking mortal behaviours. The cold bit at his skin, but he remained motionless, a statue carved from the very essence of the mountain's stoic beauty. The world was hushed, save for the soft whisper of snowflakes meeting the ground, and in this moment, Severus was not just a knight; he was a part of the landscape itself, as timeless and enduring as the mountains he watched over.

"Oh. Wait. What I got to."

Severus's attention snapped back to the present as he started to advance further into the mountains... To the Den's of Giants.