"Come back to you?" Thella asked. "What do you mean by that?"

"Did Duris not tell you?" Versi asked, not taking her eyes off him. "He and I are lovers."

"Wait, hold on?" Halius blinked in confusion. "You and Versi are like a couple?"

"It's a long story," was all Duris could mutter.

"Did no one else know?" Phoebe asked, looking suspiciously around her companions.

"I knew," Leira giggled. "It was the Fates that set out Duris' fate long ago. I was sent to ensure he would continue on that path."

"And it is as I told you, he has come back to me," Versi glanced towards Leira. "All of you, leave us. I would like to be alone with Duris."

"That's not why we came here," Korax told her, earning a glare from Versi.

"Do as she said," Duris said, although his tone indicated a polite request. "I have something to say to Versi in private as well."

Slowly, the adventurers left one by one, until Duris was left all alone with Versi in her chambers. The Oracle had a mischievous smirk on her face, still holding onto Duris' head with her hand. He could feel a surge of emotions swell within him over reuniting with the woman that gave him so much yet took everything from him. Anger. Attraction. Sadness. Regret. Failure. Versi leaned in, planting a kiss on his cheek.

"Welcome back," Versi whispered into his ear. "Shall we celebrate your return to your home?"

Duris finally stepped back and shook his head. "No."

Versi blinked in confusion. "I'm sorry, but did you just say no?"

"I did," was all Duris could manage to get out.

Versi frowned, and although she wasn't angry, he could tell she was annoyed. "You must have hit your head on some battle getting here. That would explain your sudden change. I can tend to you now."

"No," Duris said, feeling the emotions within him boil up to a breaking point. "You lied to me."

Versi sighed. "No, I didn't. While I did keep the truth from you, I never once lied to you."

"Five hundred years," Duris said, practically growling. "That's how long you kept me away from the world. I've been gone for centuries and you never told me! That's a pretty big lie as far as I'm concerned!"

"You certainly never complained for staying so long," Versi pointed out and stepped forward towards him. "You could have left my side. You could have asked me questions and I would have told you, yet you didn't. Do not deny that you haven't enjoyed your stay here."

Duris took a deep breath, then exhaled. "You call us lovers but what we have isn't love. It's far too twisted to be love. You manipulated me. You've kept me from the battle."

"Do not place all of the blame on me," Versi told him, her voice harsh. "You stayed. I use no magic to sway your mind at all. The only magic that affected you was the loss of your memories, which was a side effect of keeping you alive long past your lifespan."

"You're right," Duris admitted. "It was my choice to stay with you. I was attracted to you. Maybe I still am. But now, my emotions are tearing me apart. I stayed with you thinking that I could get back to the war but now I've found out that everyone I fought with is gone. I abandoned them. I have to live with that decision and I can't. I couldn't even stand to look at myself. If I could go back and return to them, knowing that I wouldn't be here today, I would make that choice a thousand times."

"You don't understand," Versi closed her eyes. "You were always fated to be here."

"How so?" Duris asked, crossing his arms.

"I have seen what will happen when the Oath of Peace comes to an end. Many paths end in the destruction of civilization as we know it. The few paths where my father's' plans are foiled are when twelve heroes, joined by their companions, take a stand. These heroes aren't ordinary heroes, for the deeds they perform are legendary. You are one of those heroes, Duris. With my guidance, you will achieve your destiny as one of Thylea's chosen heroes."

Duris sighed. As much as he hated to admit it but Versi was right. Perhaps it was with his own brief glimpse into the future but he knew that the heroes he traveled with would be the ones to save Thylea or die trying. If he was one of those heroes, then he needed to be there for the battle, and as much as he hated to admit it, then he needed to leave behind the Dragonlords of old and find a new purpose in the modern day. He could never forgive Versi for her manipulation but he knew that he had to be here to protect Thylea.

"Then what are we to do?" Duris asked.

"I will gaze into the future and reveal to the other heroes how they are to start on the path forward," Versi answered and opened her eyes. "Before I do, you must first swear an oath to me to return to me once Thylea has been saved."

"No," Duris answered immediately, his eyes going wide. "You cannot ask this of me."

"But I am. We've both made mistakes but I am sure that we can fix them."

"I want to move on. Maybe there's a life for me in Thylea."

Versi stepped forward again, placing her hand on Duris' shoulder. "We're meant for each other. You belong to this temple just as I do."

"Thylea is doomed if you don't help us," Duris pointed out, shrugging her hand off his shoulder. "You can't force me to swear this oath. If I refuse, the world could end."

"I favor many mortals, but of them all, none of them are like you," Versi told him, never looking away from his eyes. "I want to protect Thylea but I cannot bear to lose someone who holds a special place in my heart. You must swear the oath if you are to save Thylea."

Duris, realizing that he couldn't convince her, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath. "Very well then. I swear that I will return to you in the Temple of the Oracle after Thylea has been saved from Sydon and Lutheria."

Versi smiled. "I knew you would make the right choice. Seeing as how you need… distance away from me, we should get started. Come with me."

Versi walked past Duris, brushing her hand against his, and made her way to the grotto. Duris closed his eyes, wondering about the choice he made, then followed after Versi. There was no future for him except for his return to the Temple of the Oracle. Even if he wanted to break his oath to Versi, which was dishonorable, oaths in Thylea were binding. Now that he had sworn the oath to the Oracle, the forces of Thylea would see him punished if he ever broke the oath. There was only one path for him now as much as he hated walking on it.

Duris' companions were waiting for them, surrounding the island that Versi would meditate on to see the future. He knew that they were all looking at him now. He had kept the truth of his relationship with Versi a secret. Yet, he could tell that there wasn't hate in their looks. Mostly, it was a questioning look, although Duris noticed that there were a few, such as Thella, Ranri, and Korax, that had some worry in their eyes. He took his spot in between Thella and Kyrah while the Oracle stood upon the island.

"Is everything alright?" Thella whispered. "We heard you yelling from her chamber…"

"No," Duris sighed. "We can talk about it later."

"I thank you for saving me, brave heroes," Versi bowed her head. "Some of you know me as the Oracle and others as Versi. Please, call me by my name. You've earned that right. Five centuries ago, I foresaw the fall of Thylea. Yet, there is still hope for the world. There are twelve among you who bear the potential to save the world, joined by other great warriors. I will tell you the deeds you must perform to prove yourselves as these heroes, as well as tell the twelve your personal destinies."

"And you're going to tell us this all in front of everyone?" Thella asked, somewhat nervous. "What if there are some secrets that we'd rather keep secret?"

"I don't have anything to hide," Cyrene shrugged. "There's nothing to me, really."

"I'm not interested in having my life story told to anyone," Mantes said, arms crossed. "

"If we're to travel together, we should be open with each other," Korax suggested. "I too have nothing to hide."

"Someone here does," Phoebe glanced towards Duris. "You didn't need to hide that you knew Versi because you bedded her."

"Show some respect to the Oracle," Leira glared at Phoebe; anger was an emotion she could feel both in joy and in depression.

Duris rubbed the back of his head awkwardly and took notice of Thella clutching her hands tightly. She was nervous to potentially have her future revealed. Duris stepped forward. "Then allow me to be the first to have my destiny told. I will hide nothing else from anyone and I hope that you will understand why I hid the truth."

Phoebe gave a quick nod, approving of the idea. Versi lit the incense on the island and inhaled the smoke. Duris couldn't begin to comprehend what it would be like to gaze days into the future, let alone centuries. He was lucky to even be able to see seconds into the future. Versi glanced at each of the heroes that surrounded her island, taking in the future. She was silent for several seconds before she finally spoke, her voice taking on authority.

"The Fates have revealed to me three great tasks that you must complete before you are ready to sail the three seas to face the Titans. You must shape the silver fires of the lost forge in order to craft the weapons and armor you will need. You must claim the armaments of the first Dragonlord to wield against the Titans. Finally, you must drink from the bottomless dragon horn, which will reveal to you a vision that I cannot see. But woe unto thee, for I have seen the end of Thylea. My father's anger cannot be quelled and his sister schemes as well. Should your quest fail, the doom of Thylea will come."

All was silent. Duris pondered the words of Versi, wondering what they could mean. It didn't help that he was still a stranger to these times and wasn't sure what the trials referenced to. He was at least confident that the first Dragonlord was Xander Huorath, who Ranri said was the leader. Whatever happened to his weapons and armor were beyond him, despite having probably known Xander.

Versi gazed upon Duris with a smile. "Duris, my love, come to me so that I may speak to you about your destiny."

Duris, having adjusted to Versi's presence since their reunion, stepped onto the island. "What awaits me between now and the end of my journey?"

"The Fates are cruel to tear us apart so soon after our reunion, but soon, our hearts will forever sing as one," Versi closed her eyes. I shall speak to you now of your fate. I see you once more wearing your famed crown and armor. You are to reform the order you left behind long ago. The Dragonlords will once again protect Thylea. Start by traveling to the necropolis at Telamok, where old friends await."

"I understand," Duris nodded.

"Hold on a moment," Ranri gasped. "Reform th' order ye left behind? What does she mean by that?"

"I did say I wouldn't have any more secrets to hide," Duris turned away from Versi and pulled down his hood. "I don't share the name Duris with the Dragonlord of the past. I am Duris the Dragonlord."

"That seems like something you should have told us when we first traveled together," Phoebe commented.

"Would you have believed me if I had told you I was over five hundred years old?" Duris asked with a light chuckle.

"I'll give you that," Phoebe laughed alongside him, moving past her previous grievances.

Ranri dropped down to his knees. "I pledge my loyalty te ye, Duris o' th' Dragonlords! Shall I swear an oath of loyalty or protection te ye?"

"That… that won't be necessary, Ranri," Duris motioned for Ranri to stand up. "Please, we're companions and friends. No oaths are necessary."

"Aye, but now, I know how te reform th' Dragonlords, and that's with ye," Ranri stood up. "Versi, tell me how I am te help Duris in his quest. Surely, that is the grand destiny set out for me."

Versi glanced towards Ranri. "I mean no offense, but I do not see any grand deeds done by you."

"Oh," Ranri blinked. "Well, I'll just forge my own destiny!"

"That's the spirit," Duris encouraged, then walked towards his spot.

Duris had no problems with what his destiny held with him. He figured that he would need to make it up to the Dragonlords for leaving them behind five hundred years. What better way to do so than to reform their organization in the modern day? The best part was that he would have help. He didn't want to take over leadership from Ranri (even though the dwarf was willing to follow Duris) but he knew that the dwarf, along with Argades and Semestra, were allies he could count on.

Duris stepped between Thella and Kyrah, whispering to Thella. "How are you feeling now?"

"Better," Thella admitted. "That was brave of you, really."

"I have nothing to hide. I am who I am."

"This is going to make for a very interesting story," Kyrah noted, an idea that Duris agreed with.

"Halius, son of Irene, step forward so that I can reveal your destiny to you."

That wasn't what Halius expected, as noted by his blinking. "You know my mother's name."

"She's an oracle," Korax pointed out.

"Yes but I'm not anyone special. I'm just a farmer who…"

Halius froze, remembering what happened to his home and family. Korax slapped him on the back lightly, which was enough to prompt him to step up onto the island with Versi. He wasn't sure if he was supposed to kneel or bow. Duris didn't do anything but he had some connection to the Oracle. In the end, Halius settled for clasping his hands together and bowing his head.

Overall, Halius believed he wasn't anyone special. He wasn't as great of a warrior as Korax and Phoebe were. He wasn't as great of an archer as Cyrene. He possessed no spells like Iraster and Thella. He wasn't as smart as Tellek was in the brief moments he saw. He couldn't even see the dead like Mantes could. In Halius' mind, he was just a farm boy with a blade in one hand, shield in the other, marching along with the friends he fought alongside.

"You carry an unkind name that tarnishes your noble soul," Versi looked Halius in the eyes. "Bastard."

"That's just rude," Halius frowned. "I thought I was up here to learn about my future, not to be insulted."

Korax sighed, then spoke. "She means that your parents weren't married when they had you."

"Oh," Halius blinked, then bowed his head. "Please forgive me. I didn't know any better."

"It's quite fine."

"Wait. If you know my mother's name, then do you know who killed her?"

"Unfortunately, the identity of both your mother's killer and your father is hidden to me," Versi admitted. "Yet, I can see greatness throughout your family tree."

"Really?" Halius gasped. "I didn't know."

Versi reached her hand forward, grabbing the coin pendant that Halius wore around his neck. "Your keepsake, which belonged to your father which he gave to your mother, is a burnished dragonlord coin, one of the first to be made. Take it to the keeper of the necropolis of Telamok as payment for the group, who will show you the way to a tomb where one of your family rests."

"I… I can't give up my family heirloom," Halius shook his head, holding onto the pendant. "I'm really sorry."

"I'm sure that the keeper will understand you and may be open to let you keep the coin," Versi answered. "That is your destiny, you may go now."

When Halius returned to join Korax and Cyrene, he couldn't help but notice that there was an extra step in his stride. He now realized how excited he was. His mother passed telling him of his father. Now, he knew that his father, and his father's father, and all of his ancestors, were heroes to Thylea. Halius had big shoes to fill in but now he knew what made him special. He was descended from the great heroes of Thylea, and like them, he would fight to protect the world.

"Phoebe, daughter of Pythor, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

With a small grunt, Phoebe stepped forward onto the island. She figured that she was one of the heroes although she didn't like the reason as to why. It was clear even the Fates thought it was her divine ancestry that made her special. If they didn't, they would use her mortal mother's name rather than that of her father's name. By the time she stepped in front of the Oracle, her mood was already soured. She already had an idea as to what to expect from her prophecy.

"Let's get this over with," Phoebe sighed.

"You are a mighty warrior but are also like a flower," Versi explained. "A flower cannot bloom if its stem wilts, which is why you must go to your father, who wallows in grief after having moved on from his days of glorious and epic battles."

"I have no intention of meeting him," Phoebe told her. "Find some other 'flower' child of his. There are plenty to go around and you know it."

"But none will stand a chance at the epic deeds required to bring Pythor back to the warrior he once was. You must seek him out in Estoria, the city he rules, in order to fulfill his destiny."

"Then I'm not going to fulfill my destiny," Phoebe shrugged, then walked back to her spot.

"I'm not done yet," Versi said, her stoic demeanor breaking at the shock of someone leaving in the middle of the prophecy. "You must forge the weapon your father could never wield, defeat his ancient nemesis, and save his true love. Only then can you outshine him and perhaps join him in godhood one day."

"How about I outshine him anyways by doing heroic tasks that don't directly relate to Pythor?" Phoebe laughed.

Phoebe was always open about her heritage if only to insist to others that it was her actions that made her the warrior she was rather than her blood. Yet, everyone still looked up to her as a demigod who did her deeds because Pythor was her father. She wouldn't stand for it then and she wouldn't stand for it now. If she was going to save Thylea, then it shall be as herself rather than Phoebe, daughter of Pythor.

Zyfon looked up from a piece of parchment, taking notes for his poem. "That was quite bold of you, defying the Oracle's prophecy. This is going to make for an excellent story."

Phoebe stood next to Zyfon. "You are not to refer to me as the daughter of Pythor in your works."

"Can I at least explain your divine ancestry?"

"You may at the beginning but must show that any deeds I do are because of my own strength."

"That I can do," Zyfon wrote on the parchment with his quill, only to stop mid sentence. "If you want, I could refer to you as being the child of your mother, although you never told me her name."

Phoebe thought it over, then gave a quick nod. "You may refer to me as Phoebe, daughter of Ophea."

"Ophea, as in, Ophea the harpist?" Zyfon gasped. "Her music was the most beautiful I've ever heard! I saw one of her performances when I was a young boy many years ago. I would say she inspired me to become a bard. I have to meet her."

Phoebe sighed. "She's gone."

"Oh."

"Get back to writing."

Phoebe crossed her arms, continuing to watch. Zyfon followed her instructions and went back to writing.

"Korax, son of Galena, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

Halius gasped silently in shock at the announcement. Even Cyrene blinked in surprise, although she smiled in support. Korax figured that it was only a matter of time until he was called upon by the Oracle. He knew that there was a reason that he was ordered to find her and it was to receive a prophecy of his own. Ready to fulfill the orders he was given, Korax stepped onto the island. He stood at attention, viewing Versi as an officer giving orders to a subordinate.

"I am ready to hear of my destiny," Korax said dutifully.

"Your destiny is one forged in battle, blood, and glory. I see your future; you will become the bane of wicked wyrms that trouble both the mortals of the settlements and the fae that came from Thylea."

"Dragons," Korax gasped. "You mean to tell me that I am to become the bane of dragons?"

"I am," Versi nodded. "To become the dragonslayer and to avenge the misdeed to you and your family, you must seek out the smith trapped in the fires of the forge to be gifted the weapon that will slay diabolical dragons."

"Avenge?" Korax blinked in shock. "I am the one that will slay the dragon that destroyed my home?"

"That is true. Not only will you defeat the dragon that destroyed your home, but you will slay the setting sun."

"I see," Korax bowed his head. "Thank you. I know what must be done now."

Korax returned to join Cyrene and Halius. They offered words of congratulations and consolation, although he was too focused on his thoughts. He survived the destruction of his village at the hands of the gold dragon for a reason. His destiny would be to battle that dragon and others that threaten the people of Thylea so that no one else would go through the pain he went through. Korax couldn't think of a more noble quest to have in his life than that and would do whatever it took to see him become the dragonslayer he was meant to be.

"Cyrene, daughter of Pavalur Teldent, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

It took Cyrene a moment to register that the Oracle called upon her. She whispered to Korax. "I wasn't expecting this."

"Fate works in mysterious ways," Korax commented. "I always wondered why I was ordered to bring two companions with me. Now I know that you and Halius were meant to be here."

"This is amazing," Halis said in awe. "The three of us are going to be great heroes! Can you imagine what it is we're going to do?"

"I can't," Cyrene answered. "This is a lot to take in."

"Better not keep the Oracle waiting," Korax said, glancing towards the island. "Are you sure that nothing comes to mind?"

"You know me, Korax," Cyrene shook her head. "You know my family and my story. You know that I don't have a past that bears mentioning."

"What about your father?" Korax thought out loud. "He was one of the best the Epilektoi of Mytros had until he was killed in battle."

Cyrene sighed. "I wouldn't be the first to have lost a parent. That doesn't make me special."

It was because of her father, or rather, his death, that Cyrene joined the Epilektoi of Mytros. He was a powerful wizard, one who fought in the war five hundred years ago. Yet, he was killed in action, and although Cyrene was devastated, she knew she had to follow in his example. She joined the Epilektoi of Mytros, and although she was offered a position of authority just due to her name, she refused, and instead chose to follow Korax. While her father was a powerful wizard capable of leading men into battle, Cyrene was nothing like him. She was an archer, and although she had some magical powers, she would never be as powerful as him. Whatever her future was, she was certain it didn't relate to her father.

Cyrene stepped onto the island and bowed out of respect. "I apologize for the wait. I am ready to receive my prophecy."

"If anyone is to bow, it should be," Versi said, then bowed deeply to Cyrene. "The path to retake your throne is one of treachery, your Highness."

"Huh?" Cyrene gasped. "I'm going to need more of an explanation than that. I'm not royalty."

"Are you not aware of your lineage?" Versi questioned.

"I am Cyrene Teldent, daughter of Pavalur Teldent, and I am not of royal blood."

"On your father's side, you are not, but your mother is Thesilea VI, the Queen of the Amazons and ruler of Themis," Versi revealed. "She ruled from the throne and raised you to take her place after she passed. However, that time would come quicker than she expected, for three sisters came to overthrow her. Your mother was able to send you to your father before her untimely end."

"That can't be true," Cyrene said in disbelief. "I don't remember anything like that and my father would have said something."

"What happened to your memory or why your father never told you is beyond my vision but I can see the past for what it is," Versi stated confidently. "You are the princess of Themis and heir to the throne of the Amazons."

"I'm not," Cyrene said, although she was aware that she was in denial. "I'm just an archer in service to Mytros. Being told that I have to save the world is hard enough to process but there's no way I'm royalty."

"Unfortunately, it is your destiny to take your throne, for if Thylea is to survive, you must right the wrong the Amazons committed, for it is only with the aid of the Amazons that the people of Thylea will stand."

"Then we'll need to find an Amazon to take the throne," Cyrene shook her head slowly. "It's not me."

"It is you. When you finally accept that, you must travel to the head of god, where there is a woman who may prove to be an ally or enemy. Afterwards, you must sail to Themis to take vengeance and show that your worth lies beyond your royal blood."

"I don't have any vengeance to take though!" Cyrene exclaimed.

Cyrene looked to the Oracle, who only nodded as a sign of her prophecy being told. With her head down low, she returned to her spot. She still couldn't believe the destiny that awaited her. She had no memories of Themis, of being an Amazon. She couldn't be an Amazon or a princess. Of course, while she didn't believe it, there were others aside from Versi that did.

"I can't believe it," Halius muttered. "All this time, I've been traveling alongside a princess."

"I'm not a princess," Cyrene shook her head, looking at Korax. "You know who I am. You served with my father. You know that can't be the case, right?"

Korax closed his eyes, in thought. Cyrene, coming to another realization, turned to see Yesleth's reaction. It was the elf who suspected that the ranger was more than she let on. Cyrene frowned to see Yesleth smirking, believing that she was right all along. She looked down at the ground, unable to believe the Oracle's prophecy.

"Argades, son of Tabitha, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

With a grin, Argades stepped up on the island. He knew that he would be called upon to be one of the heroes destined to save Thylea. It was time that the world knew what he was capable of. He took a quick glance around, happy to see Semestra smiling at him, and even Phoebe nodding in approval. He had worked hard to earn the approval of his companions over the course of his journey.

However, he was disappointed to see that Ranri wasn't even looking at him. Instead, the dwarf looked in awe towards Duris. Argades figured that being a Dragonlord was a big deal but he was of the past. He could help reform the Dragonlords but it should be up to those of the present to be the ones to leave it. He was disappointed that Ranri was willing to step down as leader and worried that the dwarf held Duris in higher regard than him. Argades may not be able to admit it out loud but he valued Ranri for giving him a chance when no one else did. The prophecy would be enough to change his mind though. It had to be.

"Tell me of what great deeds I will accomplish, Oracle," Argades asked in a boasting manner.

"It is no wonder that you are ready to get on with your destiny, for I have seen both the past and present," Versi started. "In the future, I see you riding on top of a dragon, perhaps becoming the greatest Dragonlord. But it is the past I am more curious about. You're gifted but are you aware of where your gifts come from?"

"They were passed down to me by my grandmother, a powerful sorceress," Argades answered without hesitation. "It isn't my past that I am concerned about. How will I become a Dragonlord?"

Versi chuckled. "Your past doesn't begin when you are born, but rather, there are circumstances that mold you into who you are long before you breathe life. Yes, your grandmother certainly had a role in your powers, but it wasn't through her alone. For you see, your grandfather was more powerful than your grandmother, for how can a mere mortal compare to that of a titan?"

"A titan?" Argades blinked in confusion.

"Your grandmother was once the lover of Sydon, the Lord of All," Versi revealed with many of the listeners gasping in surprise. "She bore a child, your mother. You and I are family, our blood tying us to Sydon."

Argades nodded slowly, seeing little reason to disbelieve the Oracle. "So what? My grandmother was a lover of Sydon. What does this mean for my future?"

"There's more to this story. It was Sydon's sister-wife, Lutheria, who convinced Sydon that his romance with your grandmother corrupted him. He killed her."

"I see," Argades muttered, his hands into fists. "I am to avenge her then."

"That is the future I see for you, although whether you reach it is up to you and your companions. Before you go, I have a gift for you."

"You do?" Argades said, shocked. "But you didn't have one for anyone else."

Versi smiled, then pulled out a locket from her robes. "I didn't know everyone else's grandmother. She was a dear friend of mine, Argades. This belonged to her, and while I had treasured it, I believe she would have wanted you to have it."

"Thank you," Argades bowed his head. "This means a lot to me."

Versi placed the locket in Argades' hands. It was a simple golden locket, and although its color had faded, he could make out the lightning bolts engraved in it. He put it on, attaching the clasp behind his neck. It meant so much to have something that belonged to his grandmother. He never knew her as she was dead long before he was born. That didn't stop him from feeling the need to take justice. Sydon may be his grandfather but he was the villain of his family's story.

When Argades turned to return to his spot, he was disappointed to see that the others were noticeably looking away from him. Phoebe even went so far as to glare at him. The half-orc was quick to realize the sudden change of attitude for everyone. They no longer saw him as Argades, but rather, they saw him as someone directly related to their enemy. Argades grunted, losing faith in his companions. If they were going to turn against him for his lineage, he would prove them wrong. Afterall, the Oracle was confident that his destiny would be heroic. He just needed to see it through to save Thylea and stop Sydon.

"Iraster Truedew, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

The halfling tapped his chin in thought, already taking note of something being out of place. With Duris as the sole exception, Versi always made note of one parent belonging to the one she called out. Now, she didn't, and Iraster knew why. As much as he hated to see it, the same curse that made everyone forget the Truedew family affected her as well. She knew who he was but not who his parents were or any of his other family.

Iraster took a deep breath, then approached the island. He had to be careful crossing the stones or else he would fall in the water. It gave him more time to think. There was still hope for his family. The Oracle's vision wasn't always perfect but she did see that there was a future for him. The halfling convinced himself that the only future left for him is one with his family back. Iraster stood before Versi, looking up at the Oracle with his hands shaking.

"Please tell me you know about my family," Iraster said, his voice quivering. "Please."

"I am terribly sorry," Versi crouched down to be at Iraster's level. "I cannot see what happened to your family. I know that you were shielded from their fate."

"But why?" Iraster asked, his voice turning harsh. "Why am I alive? Why do I have to live with them gone?"

"Do not lose hope. I see that their memory stays with you, as if they were spirits."

"Spirits?" Iraster blinked, then turned to Mantes. "You didn't tell me that their spirits were with me!"

"Don't drag me into this," Mantes shook his head. "Besides, they're not."

"Please, be calm, Iraster. Their spirits are barely holding on. If you wish to save your beloved family, you must retrieve the artifacts of the Truedew family. It is only with them that you will be able to begin the journey to save them."

Iraster blinked, processing what the Oracle told him. "I can save them. I can save my family."

"That's what I've seen, yes."

"But my home was destroyed completely," Iraster shook his head. "And even before then, we had lost track of the relics."

"You must seek out my sister, Demetria, in her temple of the deepest reaches of the forest. Her servants had collected some of your family relics. With them, you will be able to save not just your family but every family of Thylea."

"If this is the way I can save my family, then so be it," Iraster declared. "I will remind the world what a Truedew can do."

The Oracle stood up, and with a nod, Iraster returned to his spot. His heart was full of emotions and his mind flickered with thoughts of Verri, of Corric and Arielle and Ulzin. They meant everything to him and he would do whatever it took to bring them back. If it meant saving Thylea, then he would take up the relics of his ancestors to become more powerful.

"Valros, son of Lonna, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

"Let's just cut to the chase," Valros called out, unmoving from his spot. "I want to get back home. You probably know the way back home. Tell me where the way back is and I'll be out of your hair."

Yesleth nudged Valros in the side with her elbow. "You're one of the twelve destined to save Thylea. You won't be going anywhere. So, hop up on that island like everyone else."

Valros rolled his eyes. By now, he accepted that the gods walked on Thylea among mortals. However, he knew that they were still gods. The others were overly confident in their capabilities to take down the Twin Titans. Valros, being the realistic thinker of the group, knew that they were going to die. So what if Thylea burned due to their failure? Anyone could challenge the Twin Titans and end up dead as well. He saw no reason that he had to be one of the fallen.

The only thing Valros was interested in was finding the way back home. He had no place in Thylea. He needed to return to Toril, where he was a famed archaeologist and author. There was already money waiting for him from his employer who sent him to Thylea. All he had to do was tell him that the Dragonlords did exist and wish him the best of luck in finding them.

With a shrug, Valros stepped onto the island. "Let's just get the prose over with. How do I get back home?"

"Your arrival in Thylea is in itself an odyssey," Versi started. "It makes sense that you will be the one to lead the others in the odyssey across the three seas."

"Sure, whatever. Which of the three seas takes me back home."

"I understand that you're in a rush to return home but have you pondered that your destiny is to stay here in Thylea?"

Valros blinked, then bursted out in laughter. "That's hilarious."

Versi narrowed her eyes at Valros, her patience running thin. "I mean it. You could make your new home here and it may be even grander than the one you left behind."

"I'm going back where I came from," Valros said and crossed his arms. "I don't give a damn about Thylea or saving it. This isn't my fight."

"But it is."

"So what if you saw me as one of the twelve? Guess what? I don't believe in destiny. No one set out the path I took. I did. I am who I am because of the choices I made."

Versi sighed. "I am not here to argue with you. You're not just interested in going home but also in wealth. It just so happens that the last great arrivals to Thylea, the Dragonlords, had plenty of treasure. You will be the one to find their lost hoard, and with the magic it possesses, you could return home or-"

"Thank you very much," Valros walked away. "I'll take the first option."

"-you could make a new life for yourself in Thylea…" Versi shook her head slowly in disappointment.

As if Valros would even consider staying in this cursed world. He would stick around until he could leave, but afterwards, everyone else was on their own. The tiefling was aware that the others were giving him odd and hateful looks. Even Yesleth crossed her arms and shook her head when Valros stood next to her. So what if they didn't like him? He certainly didn't care. They would be the ones dead trying to fight gods. All he had to do was find treasure and return home.

"Ferrous, creation of Volkan, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

Tellek blinked, standing next to Ferrous. "Wait. You're one of the chosen heroes? Fascinating!"

Ferrous stepped forward without complaint. No thoughts went through the construct's head as it stood before the Oracle, who looked over the being of marble.

"You were created with one purpose in mind, to fight and end the war against the Titans," Versi revealed. "I see that you will fulfill that purpose."

"I understand," Ferrous said with a nod.

"Yet, even with your purpose completed, you will be unfulfilled. If you are to truly come to life, you must seek out a soul and become one with it."

"I understand," Ferrous said with another nod.

"Before you are to seek out your soul and join in the battle, you must seek out your creator, the God of Forges, and return to your birthplace to arm yourself with the tools you need."

"I understand," Ferrous said with a final nod.

Versi beckoned the construct onward, having revealed to it its destiny. Without complaint, Ferrous returned to where it stood last. It had no thoughts over what was revealed to it. Rather, it was its centaur friend that asked questions.

"How does it feel?" Tellek asked.

"How does what feel?" Ferrous asked back.

"You know, being able to fulfill your purpose," Tellek explained. "And well, getting a soul. That sounded important."

"I feel like I understand."

"Yes but what emotions do you feel?"

Ferrous tilted its head. "I feel… understanding?"

Tellek sighed. "Never mind."

"Yesleth, daughter of Talar Bronzebreeze, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

"You have a destiny?" Valros questioned.

"I do," Yesleth said, then walked to the island..

"That…" Valros shook his head, recovering from his confusion. "You said you were just my guide!"

It was true that Yesleth started out her journey with the intention of bringing Valros to the Oracle. She never once considered that she would be chosen by the Oracle for great deeds. Now that she had been chosen, she was ready to listen to what Versi had to say. Yesleth stood before the Oracle and bowed. The elf already had an idea of what the Oracle would have her do. She thought it would tie back to her ancestry. While some of her companions were descended from powerful heroes and even deities, Yesleth's ancestors were more humble but played a role in shaping the future of Thylea.

"The blood of Myrmidons flows through you," Versi declared. "Much like them, you will unite the people of Thylea to stand against the forces that plague the land."

"It shall be done," Yesleth answered back, understanding what her purpose is.

"In order to rally the settlements, you must claim the ancient symbols of the Myrmidons and be anointed as a strategos by a true Dragonlord. Only then will you be able to lead your army to battle."

"I shall do so," Yesleth nodded. "Where may I start?"

"Telamok, for that is where one of your relics lies. That is all I know."

"Thank you, Versi. I shall see to it that Thylea is saved."

Yesleth bowed once more, then returned to her place, where Valros blinked in confusion. The history of the Bronzebreezes was complicated. Her grandfather was loyal to Mytros but his son later defected to Aresia. It was Yesleth who discovered her heritage and what it meant. Aresia had no need for the Myrmidons, choosing to rely on its temple warriors for war. Mytros, on the other hand, could serve to stand to benefit from the aid of the Myrmidons once more.

"What in the Nine Hells are the Myrmidons?" Valros asked.

"The first hoplites, led by my grandfather, to fight alongside the Dragonlords," Yesleth explained. "They were simple peasants who wanted to take a stand for their homes. If Thylea is to stand, we'll need all the help we can get."

"And you knew that your grandfather led them all along?"

Yesleth nodded. "I did. I just didn't think it was important until now."

"Mantes, son of Garrik, step forward so-"

"Garrik's my father," Mantes interrupted, crossing his arms.. "You've only revealed fathers for the women, and revealed mothers for the men. Who's my mother?"

"That is beyond my sight," Versi answered with a frown.

"Of course it is," Mantes chuckled. "Why bother? Your vision is flawed."

"I still see many parts of your life."

"And I'd like to keep my life private," Mantes shrugged. "I wish you all the best of luck but this is where we part ways."

"Do you not intend to follow through with what the Fates have planned?" Leira asked Mantes.

"Perhaps I will, but perhaps I'll just go back to what I was doing before," Mantes took a few steps backwards, back towards the stairs. "My life is my own."

"That's not what you once thought," Versi's eyes followed Mantes. "You told Naia that you would share your lives together, or did you forget that when she died?"

Mantes froze, his heart beating faster. He reaches for his xiphos. "You have a lot of nerve using Naia's name against me."

"You can be with her again in the world of the living," Versi revealed. "Step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

Mantes grimaced, although his thoughts returned to Naia. He cared for greatly, and even though she was gone, that care remained. He knew that between them, Naia was the better person. Even after her untimely death, she still pushed him to do good. If there was a chance that he could see her again, then he had to take it. First, he sighed, then he chuckled at the circumstances he found himself in. Finally, he stepped forward, joining Versi on the island.

"How can I bring Naia back?" Mantes asked.

"If you wish to reunite with your love, you must first learn how to confront the spirits that plague you," Versi told him.

"I know how to do that already," Mantes said with a shrug. "It's all about having them move on."

"And how many spirits have you helped move on after funeral rites?" Versi questioned and Mantes grew silent. "I thought so. You must seek out the guardian of Telamok, for he will be able to guide you how to use your gifts properly. Once you have been properly educated, you will be able to go through a katabasis."

"That's impossible," Mantes gasped. " No one has ever survived a katabasis."

"Yet one is needed to face Lutheria to begin with," Versi pointed out.

"That doesn't mean we're going to survive it."
"Uh, excuse me," Halius said, speaking out. "What's a katabasis?"

"It's a journey to the Underworld," Mantes explained. "Many have tried but all of them have died. Believe me, I did my research on the subject."

"It is the only way you'll reunite with Naia," Versi said. "It is in the Underworld that she awaits you."

"I'll meet her in spirit when the Katabasis fails," Mantes sighed.

"Now, hold on," Halius stepped forward. "If the Oracle thinks there's a way that you can survive, we'll have to do it. I'll help you. We'll all help you."

Mantes looked towards Halius in surprise, then nodded. "Thank you Halius. I'm sure we'll find a way."

"You'll need more than your companions, for even heroes will need aid traversing the Nether Sea. " Versi stated. "I see a spurned servant of Lutheria in the city of Mytros. Although he may be hard to trust, he possesses the knowledge. That is all I see."
Mantes bowed his head out of respect to the Oracle, then returned to his spot surrounding the island. He tried to move on after Naia was killed but couldn't even push himself away from her for good. Perhaps there was a chance that they would share a life together. At the very least, Mantes now realized that he wasn't alone. Halius went out of his way to be friends, and even after pushing him away, still stood by the half-elf's side. If he was to survive a katabasis, he would need friends like him. It was the only way to reunite with Naia.

"Thella, my cousin, step forward so I can reveal your destiny to you."

"Cousin?" Duris blinked, then turned to Thella. "You're Versi's cousin?"
"There's more to it than that," Thella admitted. "I've never found the right time to tell you."

Thella calmly took to the stage, having moved on from her fear of having her secrets revealed to her companions. Duris looked on in shock. He tried to process what he had just learned. There was something divine about Thella that he could never figure out, and even learning she was Versi's cousin left him with more questions. As far as he knew, Sydon only had one sibling, his sister-wife Lutheria. Nothing about Thella had him remotely think she could be the daughter of the Titan of Dreams. Yet, looking at both her and Versi, he could see a small familial resemblance.

"Your return was foreseen, not by me, but by my namesake, Versi the Titan," the Oracle revealed. "Although you were one lost in time, you are here for a reason."

"There's another Titan?" Iraster gasped. "There's three of them?"

"More than three, actually," Thella laughed quietly. "I don't remember the others. I don't think I ever met them. I can hardly remember my own mother."

"I wish I could see what happened to her and the other siblings Sydon and Lutheria had, but unfortunately, I cannot. All I can say is that Sydon has named his children after the siblings whose lives he ruined."

"One of the Titans is named Tabitha?" Argades asked.

"I believe that by Sydon's children, she means the children he had with Lutheria," Semestra corrected her friend. "So, there's even more Titans than we were led to believe."

"Thella, dear cousin, you are to lead the people to a new era," Versi placed a comforting hand on Thella's shoulder. "To do so, you must commune with your grandmother."

"Thylea," Thella nodded. "But how can that be possible?"

"You must travel to the deepest reaches of Oldwood to find the Hand of Kentimane, the staff of your grandfather. Afterwards, you will need to bring it to the Island of the Golden Heart. It is only there that you will be able to reach Thylea and understand how to save the land."

"This is a lot of responsibility," Thella said, thinking it over. "I shall do my best."

Thella returned to stand by Duris' side, although she didn't speak about the prophecy the Oracle gave her. He didn't blame her for hiding her origin from the group. He figured that just like him, she was very unlikely to convince everyone that there were more Titans. Yet, he figured that with Versi saying it was true, the others were accepting of the truth. For the most part, the group looked at Thella oddly. Unlike Argades, who was directly descended from someone they knew to be an enemy, they weren't sure what to make of Thella and her mother.

The smoke surrounding Versi faded away slowly. Duris knew that the prophecies had been given. Rescuing Versi from Sydon's minions and receiving their destinies has taken a lot of time. It was time that they set up camp outside of the Temple of the Oracle to decide what their plan is.

"Is that it?" Korax asked. "Do you have anything else to say?"

"I do not," Versi shook her head. "It is your destiny to save Thylea, all of yours. Even those of you who aren't one of the twelve heroes will no doubt have a role to play."

"This had been…" Valros paused, trying to think of the right word, then shrugged. "I'm hungry. So, I'll leave you to tend to your home, and eat dinner outside."

"Today was a long day," Halius yawned. "I could use some rest."

The group made their way to the stairs, with Duris being the last one to follow them. Versi called out to him. "You are always welcome to stay here, Duris. I know my bed would be more comfortable than sleeping out in the open.

Duris looked over his shoulder at Versi. She was right about the comfort, and although he was tempted, he shook his head. "Perhaps next time. I should really stay by my companions. We're to save Thylea after all."

A look of disappointment crossed over Versi's face. It was only now that she started to realize that Duris meant what he said in her chambers. As difficult as it was, he was ready to move on with his life. Unfortunately, he would only have months to himself with his new freedom. There was no way he could break an oath, even if it was coerced. Duris had to make the most of what days he had left. He had his companions by his side and together, they would find a way to save Thylea.

Duris turned back to the stairs and started to walk upstairs. He never looked back at Versi when he left.

A/N: Alright. This is a longer chapter yet it is what I would say is the most important chapter so far.

Allow me to explain. Odyssey of the Dragonlords gives characters Epic Paths, which determines their story in the campaign. The twelve characters who received prophecies today all have Epic Paths. Some of these Epic Paths come from the book while others were homebrewed by the Odyssey of the Dragonlords community. And even the characters who don't have an Epic Path will still have a part to play. I'm writing assuming there's at least one fan for each character so I want to make everyone happy.

This chapter is also significant in that I made it to 40,000 words. Only another 10,000 words to go for NaNoWriMo. I'm on Thanksgiving Break (speaking of, happy Thanksgiving) and remain confident I'll make it on time.

Until next time.