Saturn sat on the docks staring out across the ocean; he had gotten to see Vander tower become something much better and greater than what he had anticipated in a very short time. Built up from his efforts and then kept aloft by having it aligned with the rune knight faction, it quickly became an important hub for travel for the order in the northern prominences. An easy way to travel to most of the coasts around here. He was glad that it was handled like this but…

He couldn’t help but lament something that had come from his actions; something that he hadn’t even expected from the council. Not to mention the other knights in the order that he knew of; the paltry few that he was expecting. Toga, ittindi, averie. There was even a few other names that had been around for a minute like primula and tempris. But the very last person that he expected to be gone, or missing was Kon. The general for the rune knights had all but vanished. No one knew where he had run off to. Which left the council wanting.

Which left them picking a new general before his seat had even grown cold. He had expected Toga. The bright dragonslayer was someone that he could see leading the knights into a very civilian friendly future and the brightness of that human was definitely something that would be helpful in the long run. The council could use that to better their relations with other countries that weren’t a part of it or had little control.

His hand clenched around the letter that was in his right hand. His feet started to kick the water below the docks and he’d sigh a bit. He was wearing his raiment but thankfully it wasn’t the armored version else that would have made the letter now unreadable. It was a long winded thing that eventually gave him props for doing so much in such a short time. Going on and on and on. Until dropping something on him that left him flabbergasted.


They had made him general; of everyone in the rune knights they had picked someone that had only recently come to earthland as a whole and while his maturity had spiked he wasn’t sure if he was ready for the responsibility attached to it. He’d stare down at the letter and just shake his head a few times. He could feel the aching of the sun across his back; it was starting to get late. But he wasn’t sure what he was going to do about this; he had to think. Make plans. He wanted to help people and this would let him but it would let them control him easier. He liked the idea of freedom; not additional shackles. He’d let out a soft hum that was charged with mana; the water vibrated by him, the light and darkness nearby seemed to quiver.

”Unique positions… unique decisions. I bet she’d laugh.”

Saturn sighed softly and let his shoulders shag, this would complicate things a bit too. Ever since becoming the forgotten dragonslayer and a demon his life had already quite a few things going for it that he was learning to manage. Now he had to figure out how to lead the most prominent order in the entire earthland to boot? Oh Brother.

Ittindi felt at peace staring at the sea, it offered the same serenity and danger that a jungle or forest did. The rest of the Knights were busy handling the duties of the ship. His mana car underneath in storage, the perks of his new rank as a Major. Ittindi was wearing his signature magical suit the tophat sporting a bright blue like the water on the shore they were approaching. Ittindi could make him out now, the new General of the Rune Knights. If it was in his power he’d have the men salute as soon as they saw General Saturn’s silhouette across the ocean then they’d crash the ship straight into the dock they were so disciplined.

However, Ittindi knew his men as well as a little about General Saturn. They’d find such respect for titles to be extreme, though they lacked the proper insight into the power of titles like Ittindi did. That was really his only problem with both General Saturn and Colonel Tōga they didn’t seem to hold the same reverence for office Ittindi did. He wondered if that was part of the reason why General Saturn was picked over Colonel Tōga. Ittindi hadn’t had time to figure out the council’s reasoning in selection, not that he was one with authority to question.

Another Knight a squire, would walk by Ittindi greeting him, but also following it up with a popular religious phrase. Ittindi had recently purchased a gun designed like a large cross. Engraved randomly into it were verses as well as symbols from Illumin. As a result, his religion had been boldly put on display some thought him a fanatic now. Which to be fair could describe his attitude towards cleaning. Ittindi hadn’t gotten to test it much, but from what he had done he was in love with the gun/ rocket launcher. Though that part would remain secret until Ittindi needed it’s abilities.

The horn of land approaching signaled their boat making land, as Ittindi went to the aft of the ship to give General Saturn a salute. Then he’d walk down the stairs to land while hearing lots of greetings for both General Saturn and him. Ittindi would give General Saturn one more salute as he approached before speaking to him.

”General Saturn, congratulations on the promotion. You know I never got to meet the former general, I do hope he is ok. I’ll admit I was intrigued with the island, the wilds and Eversworn tree have piqued my interest.”

Ittindi of course also came to see General Saturn and congratulate him. As well as receive any orders if necessary, but he’d be lying if he didn’t come here with the intention of seeing the Eversworn tree. He had heard about it from the few wealthier couples in the Rune Knights, it had quickly become a place for the meditative.

While at the moment General Saturn and Ittindi were outside, he assumed that would change sooner than later. As Rune Knights were already starting to hover around them, slowly creating a circle as if the General and Ittindi planned on having a schoolhouse brawl.

Seeing the ship rapidly approach saturn could tell from a glance that it was one of the rune knight ones. They had a certain look to them and with the heraldry that the ship possessed it wasn’t difficult to figure out. However just because it was one of his own didn’t mean he was necessarily stoked to see a bunch of people saluting him from a distance. He felt a little exasperated; he could see ittindi just fine and the people that weren’t the polite butler type were following suit likely because of either respect for the rank or because that ittindi did it first. Saturn couldn’t help but just return the salute with a friendly wave. He had really never been one for this sort of thing.

The last salute that ittindi gave him was returned half heartedly; it was clear that saturn didn’t really enjoy that sort of thing but given the respect that he was being given from people here he felt like he needed to do something. His eyes slid across ittindi’s shoulders to note the gun on his back; he wasn’t inherently familiar with fire arms or the like but he had to admit to himself that was a fairly cool weapon.

”Howdy Ittndi. It’s good to see you again. Thanks, it’s a set of large shoes I’m not sure how well I’ll be filling if I’m being honest. I met kon once back when I still didn’t know how to speak fiorian very well outside a few words. Been a long time really so I hope he’s okay too.”

The ears of the demon flicked a bit and he’d slowly push himself up off of the dock, being careful not to fall over into the water. He noted that there was a lot of the younger or lower ranked knights about them now; probably excited for their orders or perhaps just wanted to see him or ittindi closer than before.

”The wilds are most of the non-colonized part of the island and the Eversworn tree is certainly an interesting place. Very… gentle and soft compared to a good chunk of the island. Got any questions about them?”

Saturn dusted his pants off and tilted his head; was ittindi wanting to go to one of those places? Saturn would gladly show him the way; he didn’t have much to do at the moment at least with the island still in its infancy. Saturn gave a small wave to the gathering rune knights. He stood a head, shoulders and torso taller than most so he practically dwarfed everyone here in his ‘natural’ form. He’d look about at the gathering knights and eventually just rubbed at his furred snout.

”If you all could, start unloading the ship and get things situated. There will be a meeting later and many of you will find your orders in your rooms up in the outpost.”

His attention rested on ittindi and the behemoth of a demon pondered for a moment. Outside of the beach party he and ittindi had never really interacted in extensive length. This would mark the second or third time that they really had done anything right? There was an inner shrug as that wasn’t really important; he knew that ittindi was more professional than he was given that he constantly used that rank and the saluting. Saturn couldn’t really remember a time where he ever did that frequently outside of the first few weeks.

”As for the two of us, I have some things that I’d like to discuss. Nothing terribly worrying though.”

As expected General Saturn, wasn’t to keen on the pomp and circumstance, Ittindi wondered if he’d ever find another Rune Knight that was engaged with the ceremonial as much as the protection of people. He had to admit though, if he had to choose one or the other in a zero-sum game he’d choose General Saturn and Colonel’s Tōga’s attitude over someone more obsessed with ceremony than protecting others. General Saturn would address Ittindi’s questions directly, and he had to admit it only helped his reputation among the knights. He could hear the lower members whispering under baited breath, at the anticipation of seeing two higher level members of the Rune Knights discuss the future together.  Ittindi found himself looking up when talking to General Saturn, maybe his size was part of the reason he was picked. He had heard from more than one person their admiration for taller figures across all industries. Ittindi at his modest 5’10” never felt at odds with being short, but he also liked to appear subservient.

”Not at this exact moment, half the fun is nature is in the exploration. A famous phrase my head butler use to tell me, Journey before destination, words to live by in my opinion.  Would you prefer me not to call you General by the way, I know Colonel Tōga prefers Mr. Tōga. Though I’m afraid you’ll have to pick an honorific of some kind, even if you don’t recognize your own accomplishments I will.”

Ittindi usually wasn’t as blunt as he was now, but he had a feeling that was what someone like General Saturn wanted. He reminded him of Lady Lumikki in that way, Ittindi could never understand what was the point of working for a station if you didn’t acknowledge it? He did sympathize though he wouldn’t want to cause undue drama by a title.

As he mentioned orders to the others, they’d all move on from the encirclement around him and General Saturn. Going about their duties, while still continuously looking over with curiosity, at the Major and General of the Rune Knights. As General Saturn continued in their conversation he mentioned there were issues to discuss.  Ittindi’s curiosity was piqued, he wondered what General Saturn had in mind something not serious but needed to be discussed? He wondered if it had to do anything with the new island acquired by the Rune Knights or something different entirely. His mind racing with ideas he prayed that it had nothing to do with his Young Master or Lady Lumikki.

”Of course, whatever is on your mind.”

Saturn wasn’t keen on it due to his feelings of aptitude, he felt like there were other better choices and he was just the one they picked in a rush in a hurry. He wasn’t sure the machinations of the council and he found himself struggling to adapt and commit to such a cause as this. But when he was told of it’s reach afterwards the giant had accepted it; begrudgingly. Frustratingly. He could feel that modest concern building in his chest and saturn felt the eyes and mutters of the lower ranked around him. Thankful he was able to to send them on their way. Saturn sighed as the professionalism made itself manifest from ittindi; it was unavoidable now.

”Your head butler had a good… head on his shoulders. No pun intended. Sir is fine or Saturn, or have at you, just it can be a mouthful to say General Saturn or some other honorific. Pick your poison but in the event of combat please just use my name.”

Saturn rubbed at his neck; every little moment counted in that sort of venue and he’d prefer people not to stumble through more words than were needed in the event of the worst happening. Saturn would adjust and start to walk, motioning for ittindi to follow after him. The two could walk and talk while they did this; if the butler wanted to see the various areas well who better than the man responsible for clearing out the bigger threats on the island in the first night of it being back in reality?

”After my appointment to general a great many things were made known to me. A great many instances and innerworks that I wasn’t aware of at the time. I didn’t even fully know the scope of the rune knights. Only thinking that they were regulated to protecting fiore and serving under its king.”

Saturn felt this was necessary for what he had to say next; his eyes cracking open and the golden orbs staring down at the butler. There was no malvelonce in his voice; no judgement none of that higher than thou sort of nonsense higher ups sometimes had. Just concern and commitment to something greater.

”I felt trapped, Ittindi. In the idea I could only ever protect one country because of my commitment to fiore. But now I know better. So I’m going to rely on you, toga, and anyone else that enters into the rune knights to help me protect not just one country. But all of them. Even the ones beyond the Council.”

Saturn paused mid stride and tapped at his chin thoughtfully; a common tick of his followed suit by his ears swiveling slightly as to keep track of what was around him. When he first started in the knights he was a lot less comfortable in his body and more so just projected ideals rather than keeping them close to his chest.

”I want you and anyone you deem fit to start gathering allies, our fight against the void hasn’t necessarily been going well but that’s not the only threat that we’re likely going to be under fire from. Many countries as of late have gone to war and that is frankly worrying.”

He’d turn his head and look down to ittindi; his usual upbeat attitude was somewhat wavering in concern. His hands clasped and he’d sigh softly. There was a few other things too.

”There’s… also a Ball coming up. One that’ll be seeing diplomats from all across the world attending, not to mention royalty. Which you know how… dangerous it is for people to be gathered like that. Heads of many countries in one place.”

He'd also mutter under his breath...

"I don't know how to dance."

”Not a problem Sir, that’s how you’ll know if I’m worried or not. I only use honorifics when the combat is trivial.”

Some would think Ittindi conceited for such a statement, but there were just as many life threatening situations as there were non-threatening ones. A good Knight had the judgement to discern  the difference between the two and act appropriately. It was like seating a banquet, not only did one have to make sure they knew the ins and outs of the social “statusphere” they also had to know who to hire for the perfect set up, the right catering for the right feel. There were so many minute details that could transform a party into a soiree. General Saturn would usher him as they started to walk and continue their conversation.

Ittindi couldn’t imagine the pressure that General Saturn felt as he listed off the various issues around the world. His focus was greater than the last leaders of the Rune Knights, it had always been an organization of the Council, which included more countries than just Fiore. However, the leader of the Rune Knight often stayed Fiorecentric, it seemed that General Saturn did not wish to repeat the same mistake.

”Yes, I don’t mind serving as a representative for whatever region is needed. I have traveled to a decent amount of the world. In fact I’m planning on going to Iceberg pretty soon.”

Ittindi could see why the council had chosen to put him in place. A last cry against the Fiore dominated majority that seemed to sweep the globe. Ittindi didn’t mind who he served, and General Saturn seemed to be able to help him fulfill his dream potentially faster with the larger scope of duties.

”Hmm I think you’re right Sir we should be striving to help all people. That means I will need to grow stronger to try and keep up with you and Colonel Tōga.”

Ittindi always seemed to be climbing, whether in his work or his personal life. He wondered if he would continue to be the same person when he finished? Would he even have the chance? The eternal questions of mortals. Snapped back in an instant at General Saturn’s talking of the ball, he had all but forgotten. He would have to attend as security, he could easily do undercover work as a Rune Knight. He’d dreamed of waiting at an event like this since he was a boy.

”Yes a ball, I’d love to be part of the security for that Sir. Just to make sure that everything was above board.”

He had seen far greater corruption than his wanting to go to the ball. Ittindi did feel like he was cheating his training, he hadn’t taken the time to do so even with joining the Amaforth Academy. They had an excellent campus capable of withstanding the worst of his attempted spells. At least for now another soft goal forming in his head of being able to destroy part of the facility with his magic power.

”Makes sense. I know not everyone is going to have that same sort of… handle on things. But it’ll be good to know when something is serious.”

Saturn had to tuck that little tidbit into the back of his head; if ittindi ever simply referred to him like that in any given situation. He’d adjust a little bit; pondering what exactly would be considered serious to the knight in front of him. Maybe something he’d have to test in time much like how the knights would be testing him soon enough. Saturn eyed the major for a few seconds.

”Well you’re free to pick whatever country you’d like to go as far as representatives go. If you overlap with someone that’s fine, since there’s always different views on it. Working in groups never hurt either. Do you have family in iceberg or just wanting to go sightseeing?”

Saturn wanted to go to the frozen country for a few reasons; one of which being Lumikki and the hunch that he’d find more answers for himself there. The fact that ittindi wanted to grow stronger to try to keep up with him and toga also illuminated the idea that ittindi likely would be hitting colonel as well. Putting him on par at least in rank with toga and him previously. As far as strength… that was ideally something that they’d find out when working together.

”Well there’s plenty of instances for you to work with and on that. This island is a good place to train and a good place to continue working. Fiore is but a breaths way away and you could get to most of it without much issue. Especially once the airship port is installed.”

Saturn was thankful that ittindi was willing to work security; he didn’t even have to ask. Maybe he’d have a good mind for the chief of security at some event like that. Drumming his fingers on the last post of the pier the general looked back at the ship; the bustling and then eventually to the butler.

”We’ll need you on it for sure, I’m hoping that I can get a few of the more prominent knights on it as well. It’d be good practice for everyone since this is the first major ball in a long time.”

Saturn knew he wasn’t ready for the political gymnastics or the ‘gymnastics’ of dancing there. He’d shake his head after a few moments, walking away from the pier and motioning for ittindi to continue with him.

”I’ve outlined the goals and expectations I have, but I want to know. What are your goals and aspirations Ittindi? What do you expect from the rune knights? Especially now that you’re a major and no doubt may soon take the rank of colonel? I suppose further still. What do you expect from me?”

Ittindi would occasionally make eye contact with General Saturn, it was hard not to stare at him. It wasn’t their first meeting, but Ittindi was always intrigued by other races. He thought them disgusting compared to humans, but his curiosity couldn’t be sated with just knowing human superiority. It didn’t help that he had finally met a full-fledged demon in Lady Lumikki, Ittindi had always assumed he’d have to fight to death the first demon he met. She proved to be more human than he expected, though even she warned him that she was the outlier amongst her race. General Saturn was different all together, if Ittindi surmised correctly what was mentioned on the beach he was an alien.

”Yes Sir, many have found it useful as I have a preternatural sense for danger. There aren’t many who are aware enough of my mannerisms to notice such a subtle difference.”

His thoughts went to his Young Master and other guildmates he had helped in the past with this very method. He hadn’t used it with any Rune Knights yet, there hadn’t been any danger close enough to his life. He still wasn’t sure if that was luck or if he had finally improved past just self-reliance. When he traveled with Sir Brone and Lady Lumikki he didn’t seem to burden them so perhaps it was the latter.

” Uninteresting personal business sir, I’ve made some friends who want to plan an Iceberg trip.”

While they were talking casually, well at least what Ittindi would consider casual. This was still the second highest authority only surpassed by the council themselves. With the number of times they agreed on anything, General Saturn was first in practicality. He was sure that he was uninterested in the personal life of his higher ups with all on his plate. Ittindi wondered who he’d possibly run into in Iceberg from the Rune Knights, well maybe Lady Averie she did mention being from there.

”Yes even more important that everything goes near perfect.”

As General Saturn motioned him as they began a brief trot again. Ittindi was often shorter than his leaders, he had practice keeping a brisker pace to keep up with them. It brought him a sense of pride knowing that he had reached a level in the Rune Knights where his own goals were being taken into consideration.

”Goals Sir, well its simple I will be the greatest butler in the world. Other then that the current goals of being less Fiorecentric fit into my goal of traveling to obtain knowledge and observe our reputation in different lands. The only thing I expect from you is the same I expect from all Rune Knights sir. Utmost adherence to the council and the citizens under our watch.”

Though sometimes Ittindi wondered if there would ever be a choice like the one he feared with his Young Master. Would there ever be a time that the Council was so corrupt that there be a choice between them or the people? Ittindi hoped to never find out instead taking solace in the fact that his colonel promotion was hinted at in this conversation.

Saturn had no idea the sort of thoughts that ittindi had towards other races; he himself had always considered others to be an infinite wealth of intrigue and experience different than his own. His own rose tinted view on the world put him in a strange position especially when coupled with the knights themselves. Saturn had only met the butler a handful of times at this point but it was easy for him to pick up on some things.

”It’s something that’ll be useful at the ball for sure. Especially with so many leaders in one place.”

Hearing that the other didn’t have much more than a personal reason for going, Saturn nodded his head. Ittindi was pretty professional even in his offtime from what he could remember; especially with the beach coming to mind. The behemoth crossed his arms and hummed thoughtfully. They were a good ways from the port and would be getting to the main town soon enough.

”I expect there to be trouble regardless of how we want it to go. This presents too many opportunities in one place.”

Saturn glanced down at ittindi as they kept up with him; he simply had to walk for them to have to trot. If he adjusted his pace to slow down he figured that ittindi may say something; so taking into consideration he’d simply keep at it.

”Knowledge and observation. And best butler? I’m afraid I don’t have anyone to compare you to. Then again I never really met a butler before you. Not like I held much standing before taking this position.”

Saturn’s ears flicked as ittindi mentioned the adherence to the council and citizens. He paused in his stride, a full five seconds passed and one eye cracked open. The golden hidden hue staring at the other knight for what seemed to be ages before returning to the same pace.

”If you had to pick between the council and the citizens who would you choose?”

Saturn’s voice was still warm, there wasn’t any pressure exuding from him. The softness of his voice and the seriousness of the question clashed beyond belief and saturns own answer was already likely evident. But he wanted to know what ittindi would pick. What his sort of values would be.

Ittindi would continue to walk with General Saturn, he was wiser than he let on, or was that Ittindi’s racism? Either way he’d give his surface thoughts on the events they had planned on the future, and he found himself agreeing with his assessment. It didn’t dawn on Ittindi how fast General Saturn’s pace was until they flew past some other soldiers working. His awakening had increased his speed in all areas naturally. All going in the opposite direction of the officers or pretending to not see either of them, oh to be young again. Even Ittindi with all his need for rules had a few bad streaks, one of his most common was during his time at the Shi Manor.  Ittindi would sneak out on cake duty with an icing bag and read a book while occasionally taking a bite of icing. Often found passed out underneath a cart or other shaded object. It was a miracle that he was never run over, or maybe death’s demon was predestined for him, an answer he’d only find at his true death.

”Yes I suppose that’s true, well I have faith in our abilities sir.”

Ittindi was surprised that General Saturn hadn’t encountered any butlers in his time on the planet. It meant that he hadn’t spent much time with the nobility, an odd choice for general, Ittindi wondered more and more if it was a council decision or a final wish of the former general. A question he no doubt would have answered in due time no need to pry, when it was relevant it would reveal itself. Ittindi would chuckle before answering,

”Well I’m afraid the next you meet won’t stand a chance, that’s part of becoming the best butler. Everyone deserves the same elegance as a noble; it’s why I take on so many small jobs in random establishments throughout the world. “

Ittindi eyes would dart to Saturn’s ears obviously at the twitching and he would quickly apologize. As they stopped Ittindi worried he had done to much in offense to the General. He was prepared to get on his knees if necessary, he didn’t want to slight him he had just never seen such an oddity of a race.  As his one eye opened Ittindi wasn’t even aware that General Saturn could do that, he held the man’s stare for what felt like decades. Before he finally asked him a question, well really the question in the back of every higher position Rune Knight.

” That depends, there are too many scenarios to consider for a yes or no answer sir. In general, I side with humanity over the majority or minority. Though one could argue my ideas of humanity come from Illumin I suppose. In the obvious question of overwhelming corruption, I’d side against it. But there is a scale of corruption versus greater benefit to society and in some cases I’d happily help the corrupt. I’m not sure if that’s what you’re looking for, but if it is I’d like to be the Colonel over the Ministry of Communication in the future.”

Ittindi had given it a lot of thought, the obvious scenario of a corrupt council of course he’d be with the people. However, life was rarely that simple that there’d be some overarching villain setting up every misfortune, instead it’d be an amalgamation of different forces and that was harder to set a position in.

The pace was something that saturn was used to and he was thankful that they were getting further away from the host of knights. When it came to larger groups of them he never knew what to say without feeling like he was being too strict. Saturn’s stride paused for all of a moment and he’d continue forward at the faith that Ittindi had. Something else he was… uncertain about.

””Overconfidence is a slow and insidious killer.” I read that in a report by one of the knight outposts on how they kept losing knights to the wilds or bandits. I want us to be as certain and careful as we can.”

Saturn didn’t know the leader of that outpost too well; but they were serious beyond belief. Gruff. Some eyepatch and gray hair. An elderly man in a job where most die young. Wisdom was to be had there. Hearing that the next butler that he’d meet wouldn’t stand a chance had saturn rubbing his neck.

”It might be quite some time before I do meet one. They’re not exactly the sort that stick around outposts or rune knight locations. That does let you learn about locations and be ‘undercover’ as it were I take it? I might have to consider something like that. And same elegance as a noble? What do you mean?”

Saturn paused, brows furrowed, his smile grew curious and he’d cock his head to one side. The answers that ittindi gave him earned a lengthy silence and he’d slowly nod his head. The idea of ittindi being the colonel over communication was something that he could see. And with his experience he’d make good on it. Saturn would fold his arms and rub at his chin.

”A good answer on both sides of things. I’ll keep that in mind when you get to that rank then. Spose you’ll be the ear to the ground regarding nobles and other establishments. I’m still trying to get a head on this organization. What I was looking for was honesty ittindi. I don’t like liars.”

Saturn huffed at that last part and turned; he didn’t like being led on in regards to things and he valued honesty so much that he would take many people at face value which would only damage their words later if they kept lying. His gaze swept over the upcoming ‘town’ and the citadel that sat above it.

”Any questions for me?”

Ittindi would nod along as General Saturn preached about the danger of complacency. He knew all to well, but there was no way to convey that; similar to the people who were quick learners in a job interview. Though, it was also possible that General Saturn suffered from unhealthy paranoia, something that Ittindi would need to keep an eye on just in case. Power had an interesting way of strengthening certain quirks of the leader, so far Ittindi hadn’t picked up on any that posed a detriment to the country.

Their pace would continue unimpeded, as their were hardly any knights in sight now. General Saturn would remark that he was unlikely to meet any butlers as he stuck generally to military outposts. It was an interesting question, asking what kind of elegance a noble has? How do you explain privilege to an alien creature? Simply was the best way Ittindi thought of.

”Well you see sir those of us in the service industry with passion, luck or connections often a combination, find  ourselves employed in the highest caliber locations. Where one mistake would get you fired, the level of detail in all avenues exponentially increases. Of course, this comes at a cost that typically only nobles could afford. Not to mention the plethora of information that only the rich and those who serve them are privy to. As for undercover, I’ve never had a problem fitting any mold if necessary. There are cleaning people in all areas of life”

Ittindi would answer back, before the conversation moved into the more serious, the question about government and its people. The silence was something that Ittindi was familiar with when dealing with his employers. Some wielded better than others, eventually the General would nod his head, albeit slowly.  Ittindi had seemed to answer satisfactorily, that was until the General spoke on one of his dislikes. Ittindi was in a dilemma, but with what he had learned so far about their alien general better to be straightforward.

” Hmm, well General just so you know lying might be one of my best if not my best talents. While you’re leader of the organization I won’t lie to you but know that I lie often sometimes just for the fun of it. Personally, if you are worried about it I’d find a good tail to put on me that’d be my advice in your shoes.”

Ittindi would think for a second if he had any questions for the General, and now didn’t find any. If he did become Colonel of Communications he’d have to discuss the darker sides of the department with the General. From their conversation so far, Ittindi had a feeling he wasn’t fully aware of the interrogation and information gathering of that ministry.

”None at this time General, though I will suggest that we should consider training the top members together some time. I have a feeling our teamwork will prove to be the greatest asset in comparison to the guilds.”

Saturn did more than likely suffer from paranoia due to him reading all sorts of reports and all sorts of instances of loss. He was tired of them losing so many veterans to stupid things and he’d sigh a little bit at the thought of the ones they had passed by. The ones that sat in tombs that didn’t need to be as full as they were. The general scratched at his mane thoughtfully.

”So it’s a station that comes with both money and status by the way that you speak. Would that mean I should be hiring a butler then or something? Good to hear that you can do that; It’s a useful trait.”

Hearing that Ittindi was good at lying didn’t surprise him; white lies didn’t hurt people and there were some things that it was better to leave unsaid in a twist of words. He’d slowly nod his head and reach out placing a hand on ittindi’s shoulder.

”I trust you Ittindi. There’s no reason for me to do something like that. You know, toga. You know Lummiki. If they were a bad judge of character I’d be in trouble but they both like and respect you clearly. As do I. If our roles were reversed it’d still be the same. Though you’d probably be annoyed at my lack of use of ‘sir’ or the like.”

Saturn let out a soft laugh at the idea, Ittindi would likely have him disciplined in the realm that they were reversed and saturn eventually crossed his arms thoughtfully. Training together with one another was a good idea and he’d nod his head several times. Toga and Ittindi would make for good training partners and if they had a good understanding of one another’s abilities well…

”Then it’s decided. We’ll set up a training regime with one another. Cover and exploit one another’s weaknesses to better develop ourselves. I want you to gather names of the rune knights that would benefit the most from the training that are working through the ranks and do the same with them.”

Saturn cracked one of his golden eyes to take in ittindi for a few long moments. The golden hues were a powerful reminder of just how alien saturn was compared to everyone else in this world. Even as a demon he’d… Saturn paused and then felt himself grow a little cold. He hadn’t lied to them on that beach but he hadn’t quite told everything. Looking to the dock and then around for a moment the general sighed.

”...I haven’t been as forthcoming as I should have been with you Ittindi. And the truth I told you on the beach a while ago isn’t the whole truth. But there is a reason I keep somethings to myself. But once we’ve fought together and against one another I will tell you what I had withheld. As you never fully know someone till you fight them. I do not expect you to tell em some immense secret or anything but I need to know the way you are within battle.”

Ittindi was surprised for General Saturn to place his hand on his shoulder, it was a reassuring gesture even from an alien. He was touched by his reassurance in his abilities, not that he would of performed his job any less without it. The thought hadn’t occurred to Ittindi since he had been climbing the ranks of the Rune Knights. His underlings would always defer him by rank due to his example, but he hadn’t run into any like General Saturn or Colonel Tōga who’s disparagement of rank superseded their respect for Ittindi’s seniority.  He didn’t look forward to  having that first recruit, after all it wasn’t like he could hit them or something similar like in criminal organizations.

”Yes that won’t be a problem General, and thank you for your trust I’ll strive to proof myself worthy of it.”

He’d respond to the questions when General Saturn’s eyes opened again. Ittindi did find it unsettling knowing now that most of the time General Saturn walked around with his eyes barely open or saw in some other method.  The sigh was a surprise before listening to General Saturn speak of his own regrets. It seemed that he had some secret for combat like Ittindi’s own magic. Depending on his Ittindi might show his it would after all be only fair.

”Haha, you and Knuckles Shi would get along well with that train of thought. I don’t subscribe to it, but I do enjoy combat none the less. Anytime you’re free we can spar General I look forward to it. And General, everyone has their secrets, tell me whenever you feel comfortable.”

Ittindi was curious what weapon General Saturn used, he was sure he could look it up somewhere. But Ittindi wasn’t interested in combat with prior knowledge, instead he liked to relish the mystery in the moment. If he ruined that formula then he might make other mistakes, plus it was unlikely in a real scenario to be fighting with someone you were familiar with.  From petty criminal to petty change stuck under a table, Ittindi would tackle each individually. He also wondered if General Saturn fought with his eyes open or if it was something that only happened at full power.  He’d have to ask Lady Lumikki next time they’re training how powerful the General was in comparison to her and his Young Master.

”For instance, most just  know I use a gun, but I also have a magical spear I keep hidden for emergency circumstances. Best to not reveal everything to the enemy.”

His reassurance was met kindly it seemed and his smile seemed to widen ever so slightly. Saturn’s desire to look past rank was the deep want for a personal freedom he never seemed to have. His eyes drifted away from ittindi and gazed forwards towards vander tower. Something he helped create. He could see the citadel from here even though they were a good ways away. His ears flicked; he had proven himself already even if ittindi didn’t know it and he’d bob his head slightly in a nod.

”We’ll have to figure out something then, freetime isn’t something I have a ton of. So many forms to sign and people to talk to blech.”

Saturn sighed a little bit; could he confide in ittindi this? In the open? He’d glance about; his brow furrowing slowly and then he’d exhale. There wasn’t a soul near them and he doubted that anyone had that sharp of hearing that they’d be able to tell what he would say to ittindi from the docks. He had met ittindi only a handful of times but he knew that he could trust them.

”Ever since meeting Lumikki and another named Liv… I found that I’m less alien than I used to be. People compared me to a demi god but… as of late. It would seem that my form, and my powers have become more… demonic.”

He’d rub at his chin and frown slightly; he had been away from this planet before his creation and the powers that be within the planet had changed him. Eventually he came to the conclusion this was a natural evolution of his song. One note of which escaped his mouth when he started to speak again.

”In short. My time on earthland has turned me from ‘alien’ to ‘Demon’. And It makes me wonder if earthland itself is headed towards a darker path or is already on a dark path.”

Saturn didn’t know that people knew ittindi used a firearm and that he had a magical spear that he kept hidden. Saturn stood there for a few moments and would eventually extend his hand out. As though grasping something. From the depths of his person he’d draw it forward, Rhongomyniad. It had started as slivers from his arms forming into the grandiose spear. There was a look on his face that was for the briefest second ‘confused’ as though he still wasn’t used to it showing up.

”Spears are my go to. I used to use… something called ‘Sleeping Dragon’. A powerful Rune knight artifact that I had drawn out from the armory of the Rune knights. It eventually however developed into… This. I still don’t know it’s name but it’s voice is sweeter and more gentle than Sleeping dragons was.”

Saturn stared at it for a few moments and offered the spear for Ittindi to look over; he had no idea what it was and likely wouldn’t know for quite some time. He was of the void but it felt like something that was drawing him harder and harder to earthland. Like something coaxing him to be protective of something he already wanted to dearly defend.

"I take it the gun you're talking about is the Dominator? It's become a weapon that many knights wish to wield."

Ittindi couldn’t imagine how busy General Saturn was, even worse than that he wasn’t even used to the customs of the planet.  He was only a Major and there were often times he wished that he had joined a lazier organization, the idea of being a colonel still appealed to him. Though he’d definitely feel differently once he was in the position, with great power comes great responsibility, at least the pay kept up with the power. Ittindi would listen as General Saturn disclosed a secret that was almost comedic, it seemed that they shared a similar fate. Demonic influence, were the Rune Knights capable of protecting the world while being ran by demons from the top down?

Ittindi, why not just tell him. You hide me with such shame another has opened up to you will you remain shut? Just know it’s not my influence but your fear.

He also brought up a more potent point, Earthland itself had become more infected by demonic presences. Ittindi’s own magic was proof of that, but the question remained if it was a side effect of the Void or if it was an ailment bigger than Ittindi initially thought. That seemed to be the general’s thought process, and it wasn’t one made in poor judgement.

” I see you have given this problem much thought General, I believe your correct about your assumptions. When I submitted the report on the god possessing that citizen in Stella they had mentioned that they were fighting against a greater evil. That they wanted to test our powers in order to find a worthy holder for when it came. I have a feeling it was speaking of the Void, it seems to increase its activity with every fortnight."                                                    

After he was done speaking, Ittindi would listen as General Saturn talked about his penchant for spears and his weapons recent change .General Saturn would then withdraw a spear from the what appeared out of thin air, no that wasn't accurate it was almost as if he pulled it from inside his body.  He'd offer it to Ittindi, and he'd place his hand on it feeling the immense power that his General kept inside him. It felt like the opposite of his spear, Ittindi wondered where such an artifact originated from. After examining it he'd offer it back to General Saturn before materializing his own spear. The Naginata came in at 8 feet tall, the blade being 3 feet, its plain design left much to be desired. There were a small amount of ornaments on the butt of staff section. Each a charm from a past avatar, something Ittindi never planned to add too.

”That spear is quite something, as for the gun no I was talking about my personal one. It's a giant cross rifle, though I think I'll eventually upgrade it. The dominator is something I find myself using less often as I don't encounter to many infamous criminals in my work. Though anytime I'm working near reporters I only use the Dominator.”

Ittindi would let his spear vanish after General Saturn was done looking or if he had decided not to hold it. Afterwards he'd pull out his cross gun "Punisher", a beautiful piece of worked that showed his devotion to the Illumin religion. Hopefully General Saturn didn't find it to off-putting after their discussion on demonic nature.

There were a few things he never could truly understand about the humans and their drives, their desires. Their wants or needs. Saturn was glad that he was able to share with one of them the sort of… burden he carried. To the point of where saturn felt something like kinship with the individual walking with him. Flicking his ears the human continued to tell him about something that he had only briefly read about. Saturn pondered this greater evil further…

”If it is indeed of the void I wonder how surprised they’d be learning of beings from or corrupted by the influence of such a place fighting back against their ‘creator’. To find out, we must find the one possessing this power again or of another. They appear from time to time from what I understand.”

Ittindi would get to feel the weight of the spear, the weight of the world in his hands. It was holy beyond holy and it was akin to… purity at its finest. Something maybe only someone pure of heart could hold or one with great power. Saturn would take the spear back and it’d slowly recede back into his form. His brows shot up however when ittindi offered his own spear of sorts. A naginata at eight feet tall; saturn noted the plain design but could feel a wealth of power. He’d ponder it’s design and would accept it for a few long instances; it was unlike his own. A even deeper connection to it’s host. Saturn would note that he could feel something deep within. His movements were halting but he’d eventually pass it back to ittindi only to find it had ‘poofed’ into thin air.

”Rhongomyniad. An ancient artifact out of Caelum. And certainly a mouthful haha!  Your spear… feels different. At odds with myself I suppose. Maybe I’m just reading into it. mmm?”

Saturn would eye the punisher as he drew it out and would let out a small whistle, he had never seen something like that. He didn’t seem bothered with the equipment that Ittindi had shown to him. He’d fold his arms and ponder what ittindi had told him, shown him and ultimately given him to think about.

”You’re quite a Rune knight, Ittindi. I’m glad to have you. For now, do as I’ve asked and then we’ll talk again soon. I have some things to take care of in the Citadel before heading back to fiore.”

He’d give a shrill whistle using two of his fingers, each pressing against his cheeks. A moment later a pure white wyvern as clean as the snow from the mountain tops descended from the clouds. Swooping down to scoop up the rune knight leader by the shoulders.

”When you’re successful let me know!”

And with that saturn would be carried off by the massive wyvern, taken towards the citadel for who knew what. Leaving ittindi on his own, but it wasn’t hard to figure out where to go from there after all!

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