Ancient Pasts - Tbate

Aftermath

"Virion Eralith," I muttered, staring at the inconspicuous scroll.

"Ah, Cathan. Is something wrong?" The image of the commander of Dicathen began forming on the scroll.

"No. Quite the opposite, we've secured the canyon and defeated the Alacryan forces gathered here. Although, there is a matter we must discuss in person." I stated.

"Alright. I'll let the guards know that you're coming back to the castle." Virion started to close the scroll.

"Wait." I hurriedly called out. "There's something else I should investigate, and let Aldir know that there's a big problem. I'll arrive at the castle in five hours or so."

"Alright." Virion looked confused but nodded and closed the scroll.

'What's the plan?' Azrael asked.

'Athena, you can come back now." I stated as six rods came into view and sank into the bracelet.

Azrael opened his mouth, but I flew up and gestured for him to follow me. He tilted his head but followed me still. We flew silently for a few minutes before eventually arriving where I wanted.

'What's wrong? Why did you come here?' Azrael asked.

"This canyon is the fastest path from Darv to Mayburn city and the river. If Alacryan forces managed to ambush this point, they would control Mayburn and Carn. If we took too long stoping them, then they would also control Kalberk and Blackbend." I explained.

"...You think Darv is helping the Alacryans." Azrael hesitated to ask.

'That is the most logical assumption.' Athena replied.

"Arthur is next to Telmore and Slore. If the Alacryans managed to break through, then they would siege two cities, the capital of Sapin, and a lance." I stated.

"Isn't Varay in Valden?" Azrael asked.

'There's also Uto. Uto's defenses were strong. Most lances wouldn't be able to scratch him. If Arthur tried to help Varay, the Alacryans could move through Telmore and into Etistin.' Athena answered.

"The river is also the primary method in transporting resources. If we lose it, we lose a few towns that would eventually starve to death." I continued.

"How do you plan on finding them?" Azrael's head darted from one side of the desert to the other.

"Realmheart," I casually replied.

"But you can't- Oh, you meant me." Azrael clicked his tongue.

"Indeed, my fluffy little dragon," I smirked.

"Can't you use Miras' will to look for mana fluctuations?" Azrael grunted.

"I could, but I need to do something while you do that," I replied.

"Which is?" Azrael transformed into his dragon form.

"A little meeting with my grandfather," I answered.

"Make sure to introduce me this time," Azrael said as he activated realmheart.

Now would be my first time seeing Azrael use realmheart after coming back, so I was a little curious. I could see white hair growing from his head as dozens of dazzling golden runes covered his entire body. The obsidian black horns growing from the side of his temples made him look menacing while using realmheart. His piercing topaz eyes were now a brilliant purple color.

"That's quite the sight." I gawked.

"You'll have to get used to it." Azrael shrugged, his voice deep and fierce.