Domarus

Domarus remained silent as Hestia made her way over to Stryder.  Domarus followed suit, not really caring at this point.  Stryder was a fighter, that much was obvious given what Eatos told him.  However from what he could tell, the man wasn't the smartest either.  He was a warrior first.  Domarus on the other hand, was a strategist.  He planned it all out before entering and could adapt to any given situation.  Even if it was an event like at the front lines.  And from the looks of it, something had happened to him to remove his passion in general.  Possibly similar to himself, possibly not.  It all depended.  Rhozarth gave a low growl when Stryder looked at them until Domarus held up a hand to silence him.  This of course didn't stop the flaming dragon from glaring at Stryder at all.  Domarus would not speak unless he was being spoken to directly.  He was here to complete a quest, gain levels, and nothing more.  Even if there wasn't any point to it, it was better than sitting around all day.  His ax was sheathed in the meantime however.  Hestia didn't trust or believe anything he said of course, so she could be taking his calmness as a facade.  But he wondered how long it would take before she caught on to how dead inside he was.  With the fury of flames gone, he was nothing but a hollow man with strength.

@Stryder

As Hidden's smirk faded, Adrian's only grew.  At her words of being well informed he scoffed and acted offended in a sarcastic manner.  "Why would I not be?  Truly you do not underestimate me?"  At her words stating he didn't know what she needed his grin returned, a shadow over his eyes.  "Oh don't I?"  At her smiling again he listened to her words.  When she finished he burst into uncontrollable laughter, rolling on the floor and wall still chained.  The red marks flashing as more damage was dealt, yet his health returned to normal quicker than it fell.  "Oh that's precious!  Really?  You think you can fool me?  Well let's test that shall we?  You don't need me?  Then scat!  Please.  Doing things the easy way.  Where is the fun in that?  Would you really find enjoyment, pleasure if it came that easily?  Do you really think the sweet taste of revenge, in whatever form or shape you see it in, would be satisfied with an easy way out?  No.  It has to be done through planning, working.  Why make this one encounter be the end of his punishment?  Why not let it be the start?  Oh the words you could say to him.  The things that would make his eyes widen in horror and pain.  If you want to kill him, or at the very least make him suffer.  You can't just go rushing into it.  So here's my counter deal:  Admit to me that you cannot do this on your own, and that you do in the end need my help.  I get to target who I want.  I choose when i enter the fight.  Though I will enter the fight.  I won't kill Aereth, and I won't kill you.  If you meet each and every one of those conditions then I'll join you.  Cause the difference between us Hidden, is that I don't mind waiting one little bit~"

Domarus walked across the fields towards the group.  Keres and Raven by his side with the four following behind.  Domarus soon stopped a decent ways away from the group, but close enough where they could easily hear each other. 
     "So you did betray me after all Embers.  After I learned that Aereth had turned his back on me, and judging by who you'd been spending your time with I figured you sided with her.  How cute.  Hestia, you have a man who cares about no one's goals but his own, a man who devotes himself to everyone else's goals and not his own.  And a woman who flares at just about everyone.  Truly, you have gathered the misfits of Aincrad."  He drew his massive ax as the assassins and scout shifted to combat positions.  Domarus began walking calmly over to Hestia, his red visor flashing.
     "Now then, who will challenge me first?  Will it be my first, former and most disappointing general Aereth?  Or perhaps the righteous scout who let's his morals bind him?  Or will it be the woman who doesn't take no for an answer?  Or perhaps Hestia herself.  To be honest Embers, I'm quite surprised you haven't just charged right off the bat to kill me where I stand.  What's the delay?"

Adrian:  The boy smiled when he heard steps towards his little prison.  When the boulder was destroyed he chuckled silently to himself.  When he heard the voice he looked up to who was talking, revealing the nine year old boy.  "Oooooooh~  Hidden, the mighty assassin!  I heard you tried to gut someone on the frontlines.  Is that actually true?  I'm impressed, not many people have the guts to do what's necessary,"  he said with a grin.  When she told him to make a deal with her he threw his head back, slamming it the wall and laughed.  "OH you MUST be desperate if you came here wanting help, and knowing who I am!"  He curled his legs up like a giddy child while his red wrists hung from the chains.  "Oh it's Christmas!~  What are you not strong enough to do what you need to do?  I know you have the guts if rumors hold true.  If it's power you need I could easily help you there~  Or even better...  I can make you strong...  But let us save that for later!  What do you want?  What is it you want from me?"

Domarus:  He nodded to them all and looked off towards the town where the teleport pad was kept.  He had messaged Hidden to meet him on the way, but he had a feeling she was going to be late.  He would go ahead and send her a message that he would only wait a little longer.  If she still wished to come, to meet him on the seventeenth floor and to not enter the battle until the opportune moment arose.  With that he began making his way with what little people he had left with him...

@Hidden

Listening to @Hestia's words he had confirmed that she was being serious.  He also confirmed that she was choosing him out of logical reasons, and was probably shoving her emotions down.  She cared too much about the players to take an unnecessary risk.  It was true he had given advice that even Macradon took into account, changing his previous orders to what Domarus had said.  The man was intelligent, but there were things to consider.  Domarus nodded.
     "A dangerous move you're doing, putting me in position of power..  However I'll keep them safe to the best of my ability.  I may need your help to get as many of them to listen and cooperate with me, or at least acknowledge me as the leader before we enter the boss fight..  I'll handle Aereth and Hidden."  He turned to see Shield approaching and nodded to Hestia.
     "Hopefully the tier one and two players have a corrected moral compass."  Domarus walked over to @Aereth, and tapped his shoulder, gesturing for him to meet with him over by Hidden.  He then walked over to @Hidden, and spoke up.
     "Alright you two listen up.  I'm leading the tier one and two players in the boss fight, and I'm going to do everything in my power to keep the players safe.  By doing so my reputation will increase and my power will grow further.  Hidden:  Do not attack, any player.  Aereth.  Do not raise your voice against anyone.  They are allies, and our focus must be on the bosses.  You want to complain or rant, or attack or kill someone?  Do it off the front lines.  If something happens you let me handle it.  Disobey me and my orders and you will regret it, understand?"  His tone held every proof that they should not vex him, and do as he says.  When they have confirmed they would obey him he would nod.  "Good.  I trust you will hold to your words.  Both of you."

Domarus sat in the work place of his shop, looking at the photo of his mother.  His eyes were set on her, the one good thing that had ever happened to him, of which he had no memories of.  His thoughts however, were on the previous boss raid.  The raid where everyone turned on each other because one player thought the front lines were becoming corrupt or some bs like that, and decided to protect the floor bosses and help the bosses win instead.  It was sickening to see that's how far down humanity has dropped.  His hopebreaker armor sat unused in his inventory, but he wasn't using his Sovereign armor either.  Instead he wore a simple black shirt and pants.  Rhozarth sat on the wall staring into the photo of his mother with no emotions.  When it came to Domarus and his aspects Rhozarth respected his strength, and thus was loyal to him.  However that didn't mean he was emotionally connected to Domarus.  It was then he received a message from Hestia and he opened the message.

Quote

To:  Domarus
From:  Hestia

Event boss on floor thirteen we need somebody willing to protect the lower leveled players in this. I can see people who might not be the best moral character like Aereth here showing up before i did. I would like for you to be the example to lead  these players down a path that can show them the correct frontline conduct that they must uphold.

Domarus had seen the message from the priests, but he didn't think it very important.  It was just another event boss, why should he care?  Then he saw her mentioning how she wanted him to be the example and lead them down a path towards a correct frontline conduct.  He raised an eyebrow at this.  Hestia wanted him to lead players and show them how to act?  It was a bold move on her part, but he knew her heart was in the right place.  She wasn't focused on her hatred for Domarus, but on what the frontlines needed.  Domarus sighed and stood up, gesturing for Rhozarth to follow.

He arrived on the thirteenth floor in his silver armor which covered him head to toe.  He scanned the players in the vicinity and saw multiple individuals, including Aereth.  The player had been becoming more out of control as of late and needed to stop.  He walked over to the priests and placed his order, purchasing the items he required.  Then he walked over to Hestia, standing in front of her.
     "...You want me...  To lead?  Or are you just telling me to be an image for the other players?"  If she would suggest him to be the commanding officer for this event boss then he would agree to joining.  Perhaps this would show him if there were people who could be redeemable.  In addition to this, Macradon actually listened to Domarus' words when they fought in the boss raid.  He just needed the players to obey him.  He then turned to the crowd. 
     "If anyone doesn't have any teleport crystals let me know and I'll purchase some for you!"

@Hestia

Items Bought

Equipment

Stats after items

Domarus stood in front of a mirror in his Hopebreaker armor.  The black armor that never gleamed.  The armor black as the void, forged out of his inner hate and rage.  His helmet was wrapped under his arm as he stared into his reflection.  Into his eyes.  He rarely took the time to really focus, but today he looked deep into those eyes and into the maelstrom of fire and hatred.  Hatred born and fueled by his past, and his present.  Hatred that pointed it's flames towards the world and it's inhabitants.  But not just the many corrupted individuals.  That fire was pointed towards himself as well.  He knew very well that this hatred would consume him along with everyone else.  There was no avoiding that.  It was fate.  Born out of hate, it only made sense he would die by it.  He took a deep breath before he placed his helmet on, the red glow flashing as he opened his eyes.  Seeing through the helmet always helped him focus his hatred.  The world was always darker, everything with a red tint to it.  He looked into the mirror again, but this time only saw a champion of hate, destruction, and cruelty.  A weapon he wanted to use against those who were corrupt.  And would now be fighting the just.  All of this because he could not see the light.  He couldn't see the hope and goodness in others.  Only her...  The mirror reflection of himself.  Domarus even went so far as to think of her as his other half.  He clutched his hand into a tight fist before grabbing his ax and sheathing it on his back.

He moved outside where Keres and Raven were waiting for him.  Not just them however, but four others.  These four being his last loyal men.  He didn't message Aereth due to him being a traitor.  And he didn't trust Embers at this point with everything happening.  That left two assassins and a spy.  Two of the three assassins were experienced with the third being a recruit of theirs.  None of them killing out of enjoyment, but out of necessity.  The spy was younger than the assassins, but his willpower was impressive.  He was also overly loyal, which he demonstrated by kneeling in front of Domarus.  He said nothing as he turned to Keres.
     "Is everyone ready?"  Keres, who wore a black gray and green outfit styled after assassin's creed, but fancier, smiled in return.  She chose this outfit for two reasons.  It was specially designed to both protect her while keep her agility at maximum.  The second was that they were all wearing something similar so that Keres could switch with the other men and no one would be able to tell the difference.  Domarus did not want her getting hurt.
     "Yes master."  Domarus nodded and turned to Raven.
     "Raven.  Will you be ok with this?  If you do not wish to fight I understand."  When he turned to the other four they all nodded.
     "I shall fight to my last breath master Domarus."  Domarus thought about it for a moment before adding to them all.
     "My name is Harken,"  he said, drawing a gasp from Keres.  "Harken Luis.  Call me Harken or Domarus, it does not matter.  You five deserve to know my true name.  I'm proud of you all, and I know you'll make me proud today."

Reminder of what Domarus' Armor looks like

Summary:  Players get 1 sp and 200 col each

Domarus was surprised to say the least that Ember decided to give him a hug and didn't know what to do at first.  After hesitance however, his arm slowly returned the favor.  It was a bit more awkward than usual though, as this wasn't a hug to get something out of another.  It wasn't a disguise to fool someone.  It was genuine.  She was genuinely hugging him, knowing who he truly was.  She spoke again, telling him it was always worth it to be open.  That he shouldn't focus on the negatives and just think on the positives of what comes with it.  She then told Domarus that she wanted him to release all his hatred on her at once the following day.  To not hold back and to let his wrath loose.  He broke the embrace and looked her in the eyes, seeing the truth in it.  He hesitated before nodding his head. 
     "Very well Ember.  I won't ask you to prepare as I know you will.  And I know you aren't the type to hate me after witnessing my hatred full force.  But be careful.  I don't want you to die if I lose myself in my rage."  He turned to Kuro.  "If I'm being honest I don't care much of bits of code that can just be brought back later on.  But I do know you care for Kuro.  He may have tricks up his sleeve, but I implore you to be additionally protective of him in the coming fight."  He stood up and took Ember's hand, shaking it.  A ghost of a smile on his face.  "I guess the pact is sealed."

@Hestia

He sat there in silence as he listened to her speak.  Getting more worked up more and more, and relaying how she was ready to die before anyone else did.  He also saw her fighting back tears.  It was then he spoke up.
     "Ember..  Don't fight the tears.  Crying is a human trait.  And, I need you to be human.  To remind me why I've fought all this time.  To remind me what it is to be human."  He looked down at his hand for a moment.  "The last time I cried was in my childhood.  My father had caused those tears.  The last time I cried was the day I hardened my heart.  It was the day I would not hear the words of others.  It was the day I told myself I would not open myself up to people like him.  To people who think love, care and comfort can heal anything.  It was the day I engulfed myself in rage to protect myself from that pain again.  Even now, I feel nothing.  I look at you and see a mirror Ember.  I see myself, in a pure and emotional sense.  Something I never could have been.  Something I closed myself off from due to the pain I feel when opened up and vulnerable.  Tell me...  Is it worth it?  Being open to others?  Is it worth it to feel the pain of betrayal?  Is it worth it to hear the judgements?  Is it worth the pain, to be open and vulnerable to those around you?"  He sighed and looked at the sun.
     "You're right in that we will fight tomorrow.  Most likely it will be extremely violent at certain points.  But.  Know this:  I don't hate you Ember.  I hate myself.  I hate my father.  I even hate the world.  But I do not hate you.  I envy you.  I crave the happiness you posses even despite the pain, hypocrisy, and frustrations that come with it."  He pulled out his picture of his mother and looked at it.  "All I have, is a ghost of that feeling.  A shadow, and nothing more...  I want you to fight Ember, and fight your hardest.  I will not hold back.  But know that I do not fight you because I hate you.  I do not fight you because I want what you posses.  I fight you, because of my pain, and my past.  I fight you, because I cannot see."

@Hestia

Domarus shifted his head a bit in curiosity. 
     "Aereth sides with you?  Hmm..  It makes sense actually.  He's become more and more distant and independent, so it would make sense.  I could also see him being the leak, back stabbing me since it benefits him.  In the end he's just as self centered as everyone else."  He sighed and shifted in his seat before continuing.
     "There is just one problem with this peace you so desire.  Somewhere along the line, people will need to die for you to reach that peace.  Whether it's player killers, enforcement officers, or innocents.  Peace is never obtainable without a sacrifice of some sort.  Therefore, the very concept in itself is hypocritical.  Still, you at least have a stable, or semi-stable plan set in motion.  What will you do if the front liners refuse to cooperate?  What will you do if they don't have as much love for humanity as you're hoping?  What should happen if the prison is in fact established?  Will you post guards?  How many?  Will you add more as more prisoners appear?  What will you do if there ends up being a jailbreak?  How will you react if and when player killers become more violent and aggressive in response to your actions?  You know that if they become more violent because you are trying to arrest them all, that innocent blood will be on your hands?"  He took a drink from his glass and placed it down gently, staring into the liquid.  "Cause and effect Ember.  If you try to stop the darkness, the darkness will grow stronger and more active.  If you leave the darkness be it spreads.  If you think you snuffed out the darkness, you either create it by accident elsewhere, or it stays hidden and strikes when least expected.  It's a lose lose scenario.  The best you can hope for is a few weeks of peace and quiet."  He looked back up to her.
     "Sometimes I wish I had your eyes.  Even if the notion itself is utterly hopeless and impossible to obtain, you still somehow see the hope and light in this corrupted world.  That's something I have never been able to do...  As for you Kuro, you remind me of Rhozarth.  Both of you are proud beings.  I wasn't insulting you, just warning the two of you that while I may hold back, Rhozarth doesn't know restraint when he enters combat."

@Hestia

(OOC- tag Itzal's account, I'm using his account when posting as Domarus thanks to linked accounts and their benefits)

Domarus walked with Hestia across the floor, Rhozarth on his shoulder as he walked.  The proud creature flared it's flames every now and then, wanting to keep it's flames strong and fresh.  Domarus was wearing his silver armor as they walked through the dark forest.  If he was recalling it correctly, he had fought the massive monkey king here.  At any rate it didn't really matter what happened or didn't happen on this floor.  The result would be the same regardless.  This was just another quest he was doing with Hestia and another player.  Experience points would be won.  Another quest completed.  One step closer to a new level.  But what was the point when the front lines were in disarray?  He walked silently through the forest, his massive ax on his back, ready to be drawn and decimate anything in his path.  Rhozarth was bored lately since Domarus hadn't been active, so he was actively looking for a target to shred up.  Occasionally the familiar glanced at Kuro as if he were a possible pastime, but would decide against it, albeit barely each time.  Domarus heard Hestia's words and replied.
     "Falling unconscious isn't a sacrifice.  Dying for a cause or losing something valuable is.  This quest however will be completed regardless of what players prior to our arrival have or have not failed to do."  Soon Rhozarth gave a growl that told him there was a player, and followed his familiar's gaze.
     "Hmm.  So it's Stryder then."

@Stryder

Domarus closed his eyes, his hands folding in front of him, and was silent for a decent minute.  Then, a smile cracked on his face and he began to chuckle.  Which slowly grew until he started laughing.  When he relaxed again he looked at Hestia with amusement, but also with a hint of admiration.
     "I think it is safe to say we are the two most stubborn headed people in the entirety of existence in this current generation Ember.  I refuse to back down and surrender.  You refuse to give up on me.  Quite amusing if you think about it."  He relaxed his body in his chair and looked her in the eyes.  "However I am curious about something.  You know my primary skills are to manipulate and deceive for the greatest outcome possible.  Not long before you refused to trust me on anything I said or did.  So why on earth would you trust me now?  Of all times?  Why would you trust me to hold my word?"  He would wait for an answer before he did anything else.  He looked at her familiar for a second.  "Your familiar will be in grave danger though..  Rhozarth is violent, and will not hesitate to slaughter your lion, shredding him to ribbons.  Your familiar is faster, but Rhozarth is very strong.  Not just in brute force, but in elemental power as well.  In addition to this I have given him armor which slows him down a little more, but increases his strongest trait.  If you want your familiar to stay alive, I highly suggest you think twice about bringing him with you."

Domarus listened to her, but this time when she ended a ghost of a smile cracked through Domarus' face, and he let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head.  He leaned back and looked up at the sky.
     "Look at us Ember.  So similar and yet such opposites...  Firstly, I say humanity to include myself.  No one is without fault, we are all to blame.  I don't understand how you can do such a thing with utter ease, though perhaps it's because I'm blinded by all the horror that I have seen in my childhood.  Perhaps it's because my mother died when I was born and my father was never much of a father.  Perhaps it's because while you at least had a father who was kind and gentle, I grew up alone in this world and had to protect myself as such, discovering that hope only led to pain, betrayal and disappointment.  Perhaps it's because in my eyes hope only belonged to the weak who couldn't protect themselves and had become desperate to be saved."  He looked back at her, a solemn and half emotionless look on his face.
     "Regardless of what had happened in my past however.  Only a handful of things still stand.  One of them being that even if I were hopeful for mankind, I cannot take action.  It's all I've known and can do to manipulate Ember.  It's a form of self protection that developed over the years.  Even if I did put faith in humanity, I'd be a blind man trying to learn how to race.  Not that it's impossible..  At any rate it's clear you won't stop, so you know as well as I that this will end in a final encounter.  I'm not a quitter Ember so I won't back down.  However, I would appreciate it if you didn't spread word of my true nature to everyone.  If I do survive your blade, and if I do go into hiding, it would be pleasant if no one started trying to hunt me down for everything I did and finish the job you could not."

@Hestia

Domarus listened to Hestia the same way she did with him.  Patiently without interrupting whatsoever.  When she finished he nodded.
     "I'm glad you at least have the common sense not to do something of the same action Hirru had done.  Hopefully Hirru was able to realize just how much of a self centered idiot he was when he decided to protect one of the one hundred walls blocking our paths to freedom...  However, on what you say about faith throughout history."  He turned to look at the npc townsfolk for a second.  "You have to understand that I can't act on faith.  All my life I've only known these things:  Facts.  Cause and Effect.  Emotion.  And Psychology.  I know how the human mind works, and how people are most likely to react.  I can even cover a few alternate reactions, and if I take time to plan things out ahead of time, far more.  I know how emotions work, and my skills are similar to them as they are with my skills with reading the human mind.  When you understand these two, and with an understanding of how the world works in the scientific realm, you can predict the effect of certain causes.  And the facts, are that no matter what people do, their negative deeds, emotions and thoughts end up always double and above the number of good.  You look in a neighborhood and see peace and happiness.  But if you looked at everything, everyone, everywhere, and saw the numbers.  Just like I did growing up, knowing how screwed up the human race is?  Hope would be nothing but a fantasy to you.  Just like luck, it can only take you so far."  The fire had left his eyes.  The passionate fury against the player killers gone as he recalled everything he'd seen.  Both in the real world..  And in the video game..

     "Ember, I don't operate on blind faith, I operate on facts.  And the fact is, regardless of how long they can keep us alive, we are still on a time limit.  I could easily locate someone who does have the appropriate knowledge to give us a solid answer as well however.  As for the front lines I haven't given up on them because of this one raid.  I've given up on them because I've watched them long before this raid.  Fighting against each other, quarreling, refusing to listen to one another.  Once they grow to hate another individual, that hatred sticks until the end.  The perfect example is Hikoru and Ariel.  I've done my homework as well as you have too, so I know of the incident Teayre was responsible for.  Slaughtering players on the frontlines because she felt like it.  Zandra making potions that forced players into a blood rage.  It actually reminds me of Mari who gave mind controlling potions away to a player killing guild.  The first one I destroyed for what they did to a young girl."  To this his eyes darkened, the old Domarus coming out again.  That seething, fiery rage flaring in his eyes.  "I gave up on the frontlines, and all of humanity, because no matter how many good acts these people do, they pale in comparison to the evil they commit.  They throw away all logic and reason for their selfish and greedy desires, or their grudges against another individual.  They give into bloodlust and slaughter because they are trapped.  They become afraid and thus decide to spread fear, making everyone as miserable as they are.  Meanwhile, the frontliners who haven't had to worry about death for the longest time have grown to the point where multiple members have all but forgotten the people crying out for escape.  I've made sure to come to know as many players on the first five floors as I can Ember.  I know what most of them wanted to do when they grew up in the real world.  I have met people with family in the real world, spouses, even children waiting for them.  I've met hundreds of people with little to no experience with video games, leaving them vulnerable to death.  I've met children trapped in this world Ember.  Sit there and tell me that a boss, a program.  Something that is nothing but ones and zeros which was designed from scratch to show emotion that can be duplicated as many times as one wants.  Is more important to defend than the thousands of players who were trapped here against their will, who don't have the strength to fight?  I am giving up on humanity, because I see no hope for them.  We are nothing but a greedy species seeking to satisfy our own needs over others.  People say that evolution is survival of the fittest.  If that is the case, then perhaps humanity will never be redeemable."

@Hestia

     "Of course I'll protect your sister Ember.  I may have threatened her but the truth is that was no more than a bluff.  I had intended to use your own emotions to keep myself protected.  I care for her and her safety, I'm not a monster."  He was quick to respond, making sure to clear that out of the way.  However there was a hint of aggression in his voice.  "As for Adrian, I'd be careful.  With you two removing just about all my forces, there aren't guards posted outside his area and I'm concerned he'll break out soon.  I have the last of my forces watching my shop in the meantime.  It's the only safe place for Keres and Raven after what you two had done.  After all, I can name many individuals who would love to take revenge on me for destroying their player killing allies."  When Hestia told him how she was confident they would escape in the end he sighed.
     "Let's break this down then.  Point one:  How long do you think it will take before our bodies can't function anymore in the real world?  Technology is not infinite after all, and funds can only do so much.  Eventually our bodies will decay and die Ember, we have a time limit.  Point two:  With the time limit in mind, take a moment and think about how long it took just to reach floor twenty.  Nearly four years, Ember.  How much longer do you think we have?  Point three:  The frontlines are bullsh*t and you know it.  People put their own personal feelings and desires above the needs of humanity.  Even you put your own personal curiosity above clearing out the floor boss so we could advance to the next floor.  Every moment that passes is another moment someone can die, and people fight among themselves, act out of selfishness, or don't give it their all till the end so they can get the final drop item.  Everyone has done something that pissed someone else off.  If Ariel were on the front lines I assure you it would have been a lot worse.  Everytime someone enters the frontlines, even if they're noble at first, they always reveal their true selfishness and greed, distrust and hatred towards other individuals, or just how apathetic they are.  Give me one solid reason, one piece of evidence and logic that states we are making it out of here alive."

Domarus' eyes traveled to Hestia before he turned his head fully.  This, was not at all what he had been anticipating.  Hestia feeling sorry for him, showing him her pity.  Not that he needed or wanted pity in any way shape or form.  But it had thrown him off a bit, and that confusion would certainly show.  She talked about how she was sorry he had to go through what he had.  Sorry that he grew up into the person he was today.  Talked about how she knew that if they were in each others positions growing up, they probably would have each other's mindsets.  That Domarus wasn't too sure about but he said nothing on the matter.  In the end, she told him that she didn't hate him or despise him.  She only hated his methods of manipulating others to his now unreachable goal.  He just stared at her curiously as the waitress brought Hestia some food.  When the woman left she continued, stating how she'd need him to back off from his plans or else she would in fact fight him.  Telling him that if he was going to fight they would do so on this floor.  Alternatively, if he chose to give up his methods and work with her using her methods, she wouldn't kill or arrest him.  Domarus shook his head slowly.
     "Embers...  I appreciate your attempt, but pity is the last thing I need.  And quite possibly the worst way to win me over.  I still see your methods as hopeless and useless, as you'll never succeed.  At the same time of course, I've nearly given up on humanity to begin with.  In addition, I've failed in the game.  I doubt we'll ever escape this death trap with the way things are going, but if we ever do escape I intend to use that influence to continue my campaign in the real world.  In the end it's the only thing in the real world that I don't have, that I actually care about.  I have Keres of course, but she followed me for personal reasons and I doubt she'll leave any time soon.  If you want me to stop you're going to have to force me, and I'm not going down without a fight.  I don't know how Itzal managed to destroy everything I worked so hard to build, but don't think for a second that this makes me any weaker."  There was no threat in his voice.  No aggression.  In fact, there was hardly anything at all.  It was almost as if he was half dead already.  Half of him speaking on behalf of his one and only goal in life which had been taken away from him in this digital world, and the other half speaking on something not yet revealed to Hestia.
     "I'll fight you anywhere at anytime.  I'll fight an army by myself if I have to.  But you need to kill me to stop me."

@Hestia

Domarus said nothing in response.  He simply pulled the chair out and sat down.  It would be clear he wasn't himself, like something was weighing down on him.  In his mind he expected her to believe he was like this because everything he had worked so hard to build up had been torn down and taken away from him.  And he was partly upset about that, but if he was honest there wasn't much rage there anymore.  Rage needed something to be angry about, and he couldn't be angry if he didn't have a reason to do anything anymore.  Humanity was beyond redemption and was far from worth being saving.  He had done all he had specifically to take control of the world and use methods of manipulation and deception to force them to change for the better, whether they realized it or not.  In the end however, he witnessed first hand that humans would turn their backs on their own kind for something as stupid as computer code.  It was the stupidest and most disgusting thing he'd witnessed.  And it was only amplified by the fact that he had witnessed many horrifying acts.  Terrorism.  Murder.  Torture.  Wars.  Even random citizens causing riots and fires because someone they were told was someone they couldn't trust was voted.  Somehow, in someway, this one individual Hirru had committed something worse than that.  And now here Hestia was, despite trying to hide it he knew she was pleased to hear his empire had crumbled before him.  More than likely, despite her words she was gloating in her mind.  Despite her trying to lure him out and say anything he still remained silent, looking at the npc's around them.  Living average lives of your day to day life.  He had nothing to discuss with Hestia.  She would destroy him in the end, so why bother?  At this point he was just waiting for her to come at him with sword and shield.  He may not care about anything, but he certainly wasn't going to go down without a fight.  That much she should count on.

@Hestia

Domarus received a message and almost didn't look at it.  In the end however he did.  He was honestly a bit surprised at who sent it.  He expected her to not talk to him at all, and instead warning him or coming directly to finish the job.  At any rate he now had a choice in front of him.  He could ignore it and stay here.  He could try and assassinate her.  He could go over and see what she had to say.  Of course options didn't matter anymore.  There was no point to anything anymore.  So he stood up, and began walking to town towards the teleport crystal.  Rhozarth was in his shop with Keres and Porvós.  As well as Raven who he made sure was safe with the last of his warriors.  It was just Domarus wearing a black T-shirt and pants.  No manipulation.  No deception.  No armor or weapons.  No tactics, strategies or threats.  Just a man waiting for the devil to take him.

Eventually he reached the town.  He didn't ask any of his remaining spies to help track her down and lead him to her.  He didn't message Hestia for directions.  He just made a guess as to which settlement she was at and began walking around until he found her.  It took a long while but eventually he spotted her and walked over.  She seemed to have her familiar with her as well.  He wondered how the two would react to him.  He stood in front of them for a moment, his hands in his pockets.
     "Congratulations, you and Itzal are holding up your threats thus far.  I no longer have the ability to keep you from killing me as I know you've been wanting for some time now.  Or throw me in jail as well.  Might as well as, knowing you, you won't stop until I can't do anything you don't like.  Funny.  That's how the frontlines fell apart too.  One player decided his personal feelings were greater than all of humanity, and ended up betraying the very people he swore to protect and set free.  The irony of life."

@Hestia

Domarus wasn't in his shop right now.  He wasn't on the front lines.  He wasn't clearing quests.  He wasn't having a secret meeting, and he wasn't grinding mobs.  No.  Today he was in fact on floor two sitting in front of the lake.  More specifically he was sitting on a small cliff in front of the lake.  No thick silver armor to put on a show.  No thick black armor to intimidate his foes.  No black two handed great ax ready to chop someone to pieces.  He just sat there staring at the calm lake.  The water glistening in the light of the fading sun, as dusk had begun with the sun's descent.  All things came to an end he understood.  Of course, these last few days had given him much to think about.  The front lines were hopeless.  Players were betraying mankind, their hopes to escape, and the many lives who were too weak or scared to fight in this world themselves.  All for what?  To protect scraps of code?  Players had attacked each other in anger, whether it be in anger towards what Hirru did, or for attacking Hirru.  Or for attacking players who attacked Hirru.  They had divided.  Unity and alliances shattered because of one single move.  This was the breaking point of course, as there was much leading to their demise.  This did however present one question in Domarus' mind:  Was this even worth it?  Was humanity worth saving?  Was he really able to change anything if he took power?  It was the most logical conclusion he could come up with, he'd planned out every possible scenario.  And yet, today with everything that had happened his heart just wasn't with it.  His heart wasn't with Hestia's methods either however.  Humanity was hopeless.

And to top it all off, his reputation was falling to pieces as well.  At least, not yet.  So far his underground organization was being dismantled.  Players being revealed for who they were and where they were hiding.  His spies slowly being captured and arrested, brought away for questioning.  Assassins taken out and executed for their crimes.  What power he had originally possessed was now gone.  Hestia could make do on her threat and kill him.  If she was smart, she'd know he never truly meant to kill her sister.  It was a bluff more than anything since Hestia loved her sister.  He had used her love to blind her to the fact that he also cared for Raven.  With no one to aid him, he was in fact alone.  Not because people wouldn't back him up.  But because they had been taken away from him.  He sat there pondering all of this when he heard footsteps from behind.  He didn't turn to look at the person as they soon reached him and sat beside him.  It was one of his top spies who had avoided capture.  Vrabac. 
     "Little update, the last of our strength is gone.  There's no one powerful enough to keep Adrian under lock and key.  Should we warn the general public about him?"  Domarus nodded silently and Vrabac sighed.  "Domarus, no matter what I'll follow you.  I don't care what your goals are or what you wish to do.  Hell I don't even care what you tell me to do.  You got me out of that pit and I owe you my life for that.  I just want you to give me something to do."  Domarus turned to Vrabac and nodded, pulling something out of his inventory and handing it to him.
     "You want to help?  Deliver this to Macradon."  Vrabac smiled and nodded, taking off with the letter in his own inventory.

@Hestia

If Domarus was being utterly honest, the situation that had occurred would have been utterly perfect for him.  He needed to establish his power, and his ability to lead if he was to seize control in the future.  And he would be able to display both today.  He had already shown the ability to lead when he gave the first command.  Even Macradon had completely changed his plans and told everyone to listen to Domarus' instruction instead.  That in itself told Domarus how great of an influence he was already.  He'd need to try spending some more time with Macradon afterwards.  Sway him onto Domarus' side.  For now however, he'd have to focus on showing that he could follow orders perfectly, albeit having a mind of his own in the same time.  In other words:  If the situation required some improvisation then Domarus would make a few changes.

On the other hand of course, the sight before him was the utmost stupidest thing he had ever seen.  Hirru was in fact, a total and complete moron.  Either that or he was far more selfish than Domarus ever could hope to be.  Protecting a floor boss had literally zero benefits whatsoever.  Except maybe make him feel better about protecting a program designed to help his partners kill every player in this boss room, with false emotions and built in responses to certain words and actions, who had no life to begin with.  What he had done just now was flat out treason and betrayal against the players in castle Aincrad.  Even Domarus found this thought sickening.  He thought of Keres being trapped in this world forever and that thought made him want to break the rules of this world and make Hirru feel pain as he lowered his health with his ax..  He knew it would never work but that was his feeling at any rate.  However, due to his self training at perfect deception, as well as his armor that covered his face, no one would know of this anger.

Instead he would focus on the task at hand.  He watched Aereth charge in and attack Pinball and nearly growled.  His own general losing his cool and striking another player?  He would need to punish the man severely, and very soon.  For now he would just move to stand beside Macradon. 
     "At least some of us are still sane..  I'm going to try and attack, but it's going to be hard to hit them when I have to avoid that mass of bodies..  Just wish me luck that I can land a hit in.."  With that he rushed forward.  Like he was afraid of, after he had activated his sword art he found it nearly impossible to cross the mass of bodies to reach Isaxi.  Because of this, most of his sword art was wasted, but he managed to land a solid hit on the tank.  When he finished his attack he returned to Macradon's side, speaking low and softly for only Aereth to hear: 
     "I'll deal with you later..."

Isaxi  ID#  106395  BD:  1
Evahira  ID#  4+3-1=7  18x14-100=152 dmg

Domarus heard someone move from the upstairs.  Rhozarth, who was resting on the counter beside Domarus at this point, tapped his claw twice softly to indicate that the individual had made their way to Outlander's table.  He heard some whispering but couldn't make out what the words were.  It didn't matter in the end, as Porvós was hidden under the table there, and would alert Domarus if they were planning anything sinister.  Porvós was a true master of stealth, skilled enough to rival even Hikoru.  Normally this didn't mean much as he had no combat bonuses or stats, but it was perfect for Domarus' own use.  The figure then moved to sit beside Domarus and..  Babbled.  If his intention was to distract Domarus it was a pathetic one.  If it was to annoy him enough to leave it was also a pathetic attempt.  He was surrounded by morons every day, this made no difference.  He simply muted the man in his mind and focused on the whiskey being brought to him.  He began to take a drink, only gazing at the wall in front of them.  To any outside individual, his movements, attitude, and appearance seemed as though he was just a man trying to drown his misery with alcohol.  So desperate he'd try it even though the game prevented it.  Rhozarth on the other hand, glared at the newcomer with insane aggression in it's eyes.  As if he were threatening the player to leave otherwise it would rake the man up.  If the man did not stop, or didn't leave Rhozarth would take a step forward but Domarus' gaze would shift.  Giving Rhozarth a seemingly dead look.  While others didn't know what he was communicating, Rhozarth did and would halt.  Stepping back but still glaring at the man in annoyance.

Domarus received a notification on his message feed and paused from his work to see what it was.  One of his informants.  He opened the message and read through it before rolling his eyes in annoyance.  Outlander was doing it again eh?  The message didn't specify whether Outlander was inviting people to join a pking or crime guild, but at the same time (knowing Outlander from last time), it probably wasn't a good guild at all and in fact still a crime guild of some sorts.  Domarus sighed and looked to Keres.
     "Keres come.  We're heading to floor one, I'll explain on the way."  Keres bowed with a smile.  It's been a while since they've been out like this together so she was excited.  She gestured for Porvós, her flaming serpent, to follow.  Rhozarth, Domarus' flaming dragon, flew over to his shoulder.  He was in casual clothing and began explaining where they were going and what the plan was.  Domarus would sit at the bar while Keres would wait outside.  She'd be disguised as just an average player chatting with someone.  Rhozarth would be with Domarus and would cause a distraction.  Porvós would use the distraction to hide under a chair or table, whatever Outlander was resting nearest.  And that was what they did.  Domarus walked into the building like he'd been here every day and went ahead and ordered a whisky as he sat down at the stool.  Rhozarth glided in behind him and ended up knocking down a few breakable objects at the same time.  They shattered making a loud racket which drew the attention of most everyone.  The second Outlander was distracted, Porvós (his flames out to keep from being spotted)  shot over to the table, too fast to be seen unless one was paying attention, and found a place to rest on the underside of it.  From there he could alert Domarus if the individuals were planning anything criminal.
     "Hey!  He your dragon?"  Domarus nodded as he placed a few bags of col on the counter.
     "Yeeaah, apologies for that.  I'm trying to get him to watch where he flies but up to this point he hasn't cared..."

Domarus watched as the players finished off Rori, then the experiment.  This fight was shifting from a boss fight to a comedy show in his mind.  While the bosses were dealing some decent damage now, no one was close to being killed.  Not only that but half the bosses were either cowardly, balls of jokes, or just chatting with the players.  Of course most of those bosses were dead, with the cowardly one remaining.  He watched as players charged him, but also noticed the tank Morgenstern shake his head sadly, muttering something Domarus couldn't hear.  Was he, sad at the boss' loss?  Pathetic he thought.  He seemed to care more about the boss itself than his own teammates.  From what Domarus could tell, he didn't even realize that others were infuriated with him for what he had done.  What a moron he thought.  He shook his head and turned his attention to Macradon.  He listened to the man's words and made a few mental notes.  He did plan to become an absolute leader so he had to pay attention.  While Macradon hadn't picked the best target in the first round, ending up switching tactics and going with Domarus' plan.  It did bring them closer to victory by focusing on one target at a time after all.  Once he had a plan set in motion he saw it through to the end.  Domarus wondered about Macradon, and wondered if he could somehow sway the man onto his side.  He'd make for an excellent general...

Domarus then rushed forward with his ax, starting with Evahira.  He slammed his ax at her, aiming for the space between plates in her armor.  However she was able to block and deflect his attacks with her shield very well.  At one point she parried his ax to the right, and he let go of his left hand, reached forward and grabbed her.
     "No offense to you all, it's just the business,"  he said after Hestia's words, and threw her back a decent distance.  Domarus was, after all, a very strong individual.  However with the increased distance, he didn't have the ability to finish his attack on her, and thus dealt no damage.  She wasn't the main target anyways of course.  He then rushed over to his next target, Isaxi.  He clashed his blade with her, spinning his weapon in a circle to parry her weapon out of her hands off to the side, and then slashed up her body and through her left eye as a finishing blow.
     "Now then.  With almost half your crew gone, how will you handle yourself?  Better think quick, cause you're about to lose another!"  He cried as he slammed his ax at her, tossing her to the side as well before rushing at his primary target:  Durares.  To Durares he was like a silver thunderstorm, rushing with surprising speed for his size and armor, and swung his ax far too fast for the elf to react.  The force of the blow sending the blade straight through the elf's torso and out the other end, spun around, and made a long gash across the back.
     "Your cards are going to have to do far better if you want to stop me."

Evahira  ID#  105826  BD:  1
Isaxi  ID#  105827  BD:  4+3-1=6    DMG:  252-50=202
Durares  ID#  105828  BD:  5+3-1=7    DMG:  252-25=227

Name: Opulence 
Profession: Artisan
Rank: 7
ID:  105805
Roll: 12
Item Type: trinket
Tier: 1
Quality: perfect
Enhancements: 3 slots of LD
Description: a heavy silver ring in the shape of a serpentine dragon whose eyes are emeralds