Asheri Rising: Rune Aeterna 14

Tuesday, January 11, 2005

Rune Aeterna 14

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Rune Aeterna (http://www.runeaeterna.com/index.php)
- Chapters of History (http://www.runeaeterna.com/forumdisplay.php?forumid=9)
-- Chapter 14 Archive (http://www.runeaeterna.com/showthread.php?threadid=152)

Posted by Avatar Deathscythe on 04-05-2002 12:48 AM:

Asheri Chapter 14

Alright people! We're really rolling now, so keep it coming!

__________________

"Words are powerless to express one's feelings, and sometimes they become a silver knife."

Posted by Avatar Deathscythe on 04-05-2002 12:51 AM:

Gran Adageros Chapter 14

Come on people!! No slacking! *cracks whip* Keep it coming!

__________________

"Words are powerless to express one's feelings, and sometimes they become a silver knife."

Posted by Eric VanDrison on 04-05-2002 10:08 AM:

Reana signaled to Gavin and Eric that she wanted to take the man herself. She was all too willing to cut his ego down to size. The two young men nodded their agreement. They would have more fun dealing with the women, anyway.

All three of them mooved forward casually as though to greet the man and his two young servants. They made absolutely certain that he would have no clue of what was about to happen to him.

"Adventurers eh?" The man asked when they were only a few feet away. He spoke directly to Eric and Gavin, though Reana was in between the two and the obvious leader.

"Yes," Reana said, beyond annoyed with the man's actions. "We came from Pontifar and are on our way to Miltus to see if we can't aid their military in some way with this threat of the shadowspawn," She lied, but she wasn't going to risk telling him where they were really going, should she decide to let the Behemoth live.

"A lady like you should not be embarking on something so dangerous," the man said, finally acknowledging her, but speaking slowly and soothingly, as though she only had the mental capabilities of a child. "I wouldn't want such beauty to be blemished."

Reana laughed for a moment, then lashed out, back-handing his cheek sharply. A look of surprise remained on his face as she kicked him, with all the force she could muster, in the groin. The man stood for amoment, then fell backward, speachless from the sheer pain.

Eric and Gavin, who had the good sense to take hold of the women to keep them from getting in the way, grimaced as they watched. To be honest, they really had no need to restrain the women, for they had cheered Reana on once they realized what she was doing. Now they were struggling to free themselves from Eric and Gavin's grip so they could embrace her. Much to the two young men's dismay, they succeeded.

At first, Reana was shocked and appalled by their show of gratitude, but then she realized that she had indeed helped them greatly. She liked the feeling that she had accomplished something to better someone else instead of herself. However, she knew that once the man recovered, he would surely do everything he could to find the two women. They would need a place to hide.

"Go to the Daggerwood," she said quietly once the two had settled down a bit. Eric and Gavin busied themselves by tieing up the man laying on the ground, he seemed to be unconscious now. "Tell the thieves there that Reana sent you to them and that you need refuge. They may be briggands, but they aren't heartless."

__________________
Life is what you make it

Posted by Nelcar on 04-05-2002 02:21 PM:

Is all that is spoken set in stone?

“Where is Til’Sylvanna? Deny me not my answer Saeth, for you shall forfeit the esteem I may have once held for thee. She would not keep herself from me,” said Nelcar.

“You over estimate your worth in the Lady’s eyes. Perhaps it would serve you best to realize that you are not all that she cares for. I do not make claim that wisdom be my ally, but I know that her heart is bigger than your own,” replied Saeth quietly, but with no little contempt.

“No, it is you who over estimates your worth. You have tried to find a niche in her heart that I have not already filled, but you have failed to do so. And thus, finding no other way to manifest your feelings for her, you have desperately tried to replace Valerian as her ward, but here too, you have failed, for Valerian’s memory will not diminish in your shadow.” All was quiet for a moment. Nelcar could see that Saeth had mustered his resolve in defense.

“Say what you wish, Nelcar. Hurt me with your words if you must. But know this, as you hurt me, so too do you hurt this woman whom you claim to love. For Nelcar, like you, I too have a bond with Til’Sylvanna that you shall never know. And, through me, and through our bond, we shall share each other’s thoughts and pain. You may have shown her the fire of your passion, but through me, she shall see the fire of your contempt.”

Nelcar’s eyes blazed, and he became wrathful. “Fine, then let me charge you to be the one to tell her that I have gone! Stand by her side, Saeth, as she cries for my return. Stand there, in obedience, as she longs for Valerian, Til’Sylvannas, and I to return, denying her heart to you, as she inevitably will, yet saving it for those whom she misses most!”

Nelcar’s blue eyes gleamed, for he knew that this would be the last time he saw Saeth. He knew that the words he had spoken could not easily be undone. Then he bowed to Saeth. He would not leave the Esiai’desh’mirian disrespectfully. And, as he walked away, his black hair trailing in the wind, he heard Saeth softly speak, “Goodbye Nelcar. May you stay well, and let you not fall upon the sword of your own wisdom.”

Now, there was no turning back. If Til’Sylvanna had truly denied him of her company this day, as Saeth had insisted, then he would use this circumstance to make haste, lest his heart falter and better judgment take hold and council him to return. Pride would drive him for the time being. He would have time for tears later, but first, he needed to leave the kingdom of Gania.

For a while, he wandered inconspicuously within the streets of the city, letting his mind reel. Let the White Lady be a prophet if that is what she wished. And let Saeth have her too. He had intended to leave Hethilin alone, and now he was, once again, simply plotting his course as he had done within the grove of the Cenacaiison. He would travel north and let his blue eyes stare into the blue ocean. He would seek to travel in the footsteps of those who had left Hethilin long ago. Little did he know that he was about to meet his brother…

__________________

Tend to the litany,
and bare it with your wisdom.
Then, with wisdom more, bear it,
and litigate that which has now become your Law.

Posted by Sayomara on 04-05-2002 08:08 PM:

The water Stone

Sayomara slowly walked into the woods he knew that it was full of dangers but he wanted to keep a low profile the young woman had reminded him that it was still consider odd for a old man to be walking around at night. “Best not to raise anyone suspicions. I my by powerful But I cannot take on a whole army, so best to take on the dangers of the wood than the dangers of the road,” he thought as the walked in the ever darkening woods.

As he walked, he could hear the creatures moving around hiss as he passed and Sayomara put up his guard, then he found a long stick and raped a bit of cloth about the end of it. Then he lit it with a small bolt of lighting. With the light, the Sayomara could see a great many dark looking animals had gathered around him. Sayomara stood still for a moment watching he creatures, as they watched him then with a flash of light and thunder all was white with snow and ice.

The closest creatures were frozen and the others were frost bitten so they ran off. “That should give me sometime,” thought Sayomara. He continued in always watching and waiting for something very bad and very dark to come and jump him. All the same, he knew that it was not best to dell on such thoughts for to long, otherwise he would be dead.

After what seemed like days, Sayomara came to a small clearing where he found a tower. “Who put this here,” he thought to himself as he walked through the clearing he could hear bone breaking with his every step. Sayomara also noticed that the Animals seemed to be staying out of the Clearing. Sayomara knew that his was a unholy place. However, he wanted to know what made this Clearing so special even if it was something very bad.

Sayomara made his way into the tower where he found the floor covered with bones, Human, animal, and everything in between. Sayomara kicked the bones from his path as he walked. There was a narrow set of stair against the far wall. “Well I guess that would be the best place to start looking.” And so he walk across the room kicking he bones as he went. When he came to the leg and put one foot on the first step and *Crack* when Sayomara foot hit the floor. He pulled his foot out of the broken step and Stood there for a moment and he looked at the stairs for a moment and flowed that by looking at the ceiling. Then he snapped his fingers and flew up two the second leave.

When he reached the top room Sayomara found a room full of torn up old books, and empty selves. But in the center of the Room, there was a stone and a note beside it imperfect condition.

I leave here in the tower of the Necromancer that it witch I found here. To whoever finds this take care of it for it is of great value, because it is the Water Stone!

Edrick Stromguard

“Edrick Stormguard hmm I have not heard his name in a long time, but if this is the water Stone then it might just the thing I need to pull defeat the Shadow. Then he picked up the stone and he could feel its power flowing throw him. “This really is the Water Stone, long have I heard about it, but until now I never truly knew if is existed.” Sayomara paused for a little bit just letting he power flow throw him. Then after a few more minutes Sayomara started to realize that, he had been in the tower for to long and that it was now time to be going. Then he flew down the stairs and over the bone until he was out the door and back in the clearing, so it came to past that Sayomara gave control of the Water Stone on that.

__________________
I have seen much in my day, but nothing as bad as this.

Posted by Master Saotome on 04-05-2002 10:38 PM:

Dark Romance..

It had been four days since they had taken Balanum, and Raven was liking her role as Dark Queen. She leaned back into the bubble filled bathing tub and ran her long delicate fingers along Arthurs well muscled abs. Cantle light flickered, throwing their shadows about the room like rampent eamons locked in some twisted dance. The black marble tile of the floor and walls reflecting the dim glow if the light, and casting it about the steemy room.

"You have proven me wrong again," was the Master's first statement, he running his hands over her smooth skin. He kissed her neck forcibly, giving it a light bite, and smiled a devilsh smile, "I hadn't expected the height of pleasure to exceed that of the previous night's." She laughed softly, a foxy smile curling upon her lips.

"You should have learned to listen to me by now." She toyed with the dark red rose peddles which floated beneath the bubbles. "Is my King pleased with the loyal service of his dark Lady?" She looked at him from under half lidded greed eyes, laying her head on his chest. He placed his hand over her cheek, holding her head to his chest, and, in a moment of rare sentimentality, kissef the top of her head.

“I ought. Your King is indeed rather pleased."

She sighed contentedly. It was odd for to feel so at peace. He was everything that she was... and she had never fooled herself into believeing in love. But she found herself less and less able to saperate herself from the job, her passion from... honest emotion. She did not often let him out of her sight and had killed women and children by the scores just to bring a smile to his face. He Was, in all respects, her King. She did not sat it to please him, but because she ment it. Raven had never been one to place another's feelings and desires before her own, but with him, she did. And for once, she was enjoying life. She really would lay the land to waste if he asked it of her...not just because she loved the fire and chaos that destruction brought, but for him.

She had been silent for a long time, these thoughts playing within her dark haired head. “Did I ever tell you how I got this white streak in my hair?" She asked him after a long time to make conversation. He was still running his hands through her very long black hair.

He ran his thumb over the streak of white in her hair, considering it a moment, "No. Tell me, if you should so wish."

"I was hired to get the dirt on a Nylium ambassador... so I seduced him. However, I was young, and not as clever as I thought. He was Dedicated to Air... and when I tried to make off with his documents, he fired a lightning bolt... hit me in the head." She smiled, almost sadly. Those few weeks of pretending to be in love with the fool had been a great deal of fun. "He could not believe That I coud do such a thing to him , and so he healed me and tended me until I woke." She paused. "I killed him with his own dagger. This white streak is all that remains of him. Lesson: Never trust a woman who says she loves you. She's lying." Raven smiled a dark smile, shaking off the last of the foolishly emotional thoughts she had been previously thinking. "I just like you because you are great in bed and are King of the World." She ran her tongue up his chest and ended in a passionate kiss to his lips.

He leaned toward her, mentally shaking himself for the sentimentality he had felt only moments ago. He broke the kiss when in need of air and looked at her a moment, lifting one side of his mouth. He placed his hands on her shoulders, fingertips wrapping about her and slipped a leg between hers, tangling her to him, "Hmm."

She splashed in the water of the steeming bath, having lost her balance, landing a top him. A seductive smile palyed upon her lips. "It seems that there is still a bit of energy left in you, my Lord." With that she began to make him earn his keep at her lavish home.

******

Seven hours later, after a small catnap in bed, they were sitting in her bedroom enjoying a bit of wine and lunch.

The Master looked contemplatively at the tinted wine in his shallow glass and looked up at her, "I have a city at my disposal and here I am staying at the house of my mistress and assassin. I need to begin the business of war."

"So, my dear, where do we go from here? Your associate seems to be ordering the city quite well. Do you trust him?" She was laying on the bed still, dressed in a black silk long nightgown that, sespite it's length, covered little. She smiled. "You know that I do ever enjoy a good bloodbath. Where have you set your Kingly sights now?"

He looked up at her, "I fear I will go cross-eyed. I may only go in two directions and yet they are so different that I fear for defense of my city while I go to war. Fayre ought to be a pushover; they are scattered, and I would like to strip mine there; their lands are fertile. But.. it would take long to find them all and the more time I spend campaigning, the more I leave my capital city open to attack"

She nodded. " I have a large force of underground... but they will not march to war, or come out into the open, even for me. Their loyalty only goes so far. Besides, they are assassins and thieves, not fighters. What of the Nylium? By now they must have news of Balanum's fall... And I have heard very strange rumors about the Shadow to the south." She drank down the last of her wine and went to sit across from him.

He considered, "And they would not, mayhap, simply cause a great deal of chaos for Nyliam?" He looked at her.. "I don't know that they don't. The Senate's remnants received a carrier pigeon recently. They.. ha.. they agree to an alliance."

She smiled. "Do they indeed? Tell them the terms of the alliance are... they hand over their posh little nation and no one dies... Or at least only a few die." She laughed wickedly. "As for mine... I am sure I can arrange for a few key people to come up missing. also, I am going to send the Flight out to scout out what news there is outside the city. There has to have been some to escape I want to know who may be comming our way and how soon to expect them."

He nodded in compliance and agreement, "It should be rather useful. I shall require an army.. and as you said, your own men will not be it. My own mechanics must stay behind now, to patrol my city.. the men here are not loyal to me.. not just yet.. so.. I will need to -build- myself an army."

She gazed into his eyes, not sure what she was expecting to find. "And how will you do that? I am very wealthy... but not that wealthy. Besides, hired men only go so far. I know... I was for hire." She stood and came to sit on his lap. "Now, through the power of your fantastic bed play," she said mischeviously, "you get me for free. All I want..." She paused not sure whether she shoud finish her thought. She feared to say too much. The last thing she needed to do was cloud a good time with foolish effections.

"By build an army, I mean an army of my mechanical beasts, piloted by.. themselves. The chaos and destruction of machines without consciences should be great." He leaned forward suddenly and kissed her lips, the first time in all he had known her that he initiated a kiss that hadn't been a violent one, and broke it, looking at her intently, "All you want?" She shook her head and stood up, turning her back to him and going to stand at a Red velvet curtaned window. She did not answer him.

She did not deserve love... this was not love... she did not believe in love. But... he was perfect. In every way... his love of blood and chaos... death and destruction... power and passion... And all with as much strength and will as she had.

He sat on the too-comfortable chair, setting his wineglass aside, and watched her back for some time. Internally, he was cursing his weakness and himself for allowing himself to show it. Finally, after a very, very long time, she spoke quietly. If she did not like his reaction, she thought, she would just kill him. He was in her house, surrounded by her loyals. He would not live to call on his men to avenge him. "All I want..." she said turning to look at him, her dark green eyes on fire, "is you. Not gold, or power, or all the death in the world. I want you. You can keep the world, own it like a toy, but I will have you. You will belong to no one else... no one but me. That is what I want."

The look on her face dared him to deny her. He only smiled in response--not the devilish, rogueish one as he had grown accustomed to producing, but a genuine one-- "I have been waiting for you to say that. Come, and take what you would have. As I promised you earlier, you would not be denied anything." A smile lit her face... real as was his. For once, they made love.

__________________
Not a man to be lightly crossed.

There was never a genius without a tincture of insanity. -- Aristotle

Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. -- Arthur C. Clarke

Posted by Keiru Opal on 04-06-2002 01:14 AM:

The Panther slid from shadow to shadow, unnoticed by anyone and completely silent. Sekirah had always liked transfiguring himself into a panther most. It allowed him to escape everything that was troubling him. Nothing mattered when he was that magnificent feline, just himself, and perhaps his prey.

He'd already done his hunting for the night, though. Sekirah had returned to find that the thief's body had been taken away and the area was deserted once more. They would likely pass it off as two thieves that had gotten into a dispute and one killed the other.

Keeping out of sight, he had thought for a moment about what he would do to keep himself entertained. He knew that Cedric and Ewen would be wondering where he was, but he didn't care. They could keep each other company; right now, he needed his time to lick his metaphorical wounds. Finally, he found something worth entertaining himself with... 'The girl,' he thought, his tail twitching.

He decided he would try and track the girl he had met earlier that night. She was the only other person he knew in the city, and though he didn't want any company, a semi familiar face would be welcomed. Why he chose her face over that of his two friends, he did not know, but something told him that he should find the girl.

He admitted that he had found her attractive when they had met, but he had passed it off as animal attraction. If he had been in his natural form, he would have laughed at this thought, but as it was, all he managed was an oddly human smile on his feline maw.

It took him a couple hours of wandering around the streets of Noit to finally catch her scent, as it had already dissipated from the alley where she had found him standing over the dead thief. When he did catch her vaguely familiar scent, it was much stronger and reminded him of vanilla along with the unique scent of her own persperation, and she was nearby.

He assumed that she must be inside the building to his left. Making sure that no one was out on the street, he poked his head out of the shadows of the alley and looked up at the sign above the door of the large building. It was an inn. 'She must be upstairs,' the silver panther thought, and dissappeared back into the shadows.

__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.

Posted by Jesse Silverstar on 04-06-2002 02:25 PM:

The Dark Warrior

Jesse and Lee walked through the streets of Gania. It was an amazingly nice day, though earlier they had been forced to beat up a couple thieves taking money from, “The Inn!” shouted Lee.

“What?” Jesse looked up to see smoke in the sky, “The Inn!” Both of them began to run through the crowds of the streets, they weren’t the only ones to have seen the fire, but most other people seemed to keep their distance. When they came in view of the fire, they also saw a group of people.

There were two men standing in front of the inn, a dark clad warrior, his facial features hidden behind a plate mask that covered half of his face. The other was a scrawny looking man, his features were pale, but he gave off almost an aura of vileness. Lying on the ground beside them was the body Carl, soaking in his own blood, and the vile man was holding Janna with a knife to her throat.

“Janna!” Jesse cried out.

“Jesse! Lee! Get away from here….” The knife slit across her throat, trailing behind it an opening of gushing blood.

“Nooo!” They both charged forward, weapons drawn and ready. Jesse heard a swish of air and an object just barely missed his head, though there was a gasp of pain form behind him. He turned quickly to see a dagger protruding from Lee’s chest. The wound itself was not fatal, but he also noticed the green tint to the blade. Poison!

“Lee!”

“I’m fine! Lets get them!” They faced the men, pure hatred in their eyes. The smaller man gave a slight bow then looked at the dark warrior.

“Kill them quickly my friend,” he then disappeared off into the alleys with skill that only an adept thief could have. Only the dark warrior stood there now, the two bodies of their friends beside him. He drew his sword.

“Die!” Jesse charged at him, Lee right behind. Jesse swung his blade down, the warrior deftly blocked it, then moved his blade to block Lee’s attack. Again Jesse swung, this time his attack was not only blocked, but he also received a kick to the chest. Lee soon stumbled back beside him. Both gasping for breath, though Lee was having a much harder time.

“He’s good.”

“He’s too good.”

“We can’t give up!” They charged in again, swinging their blades quickly. Soon the battle became little more than arm movements and the clanking of metal on metal. Yet while Jesse and Lee were reaching exhaustion, the warrior seemed hardly winded.

Jesse felt a blade cut the side of his arm, “Ahhh!” He moved back once again, and tripped over an object. When he came to his senses, and when the sweat was out of his eyes, he saw that the object was Lee. NOOOO! There were no blade marks on the body, though it was pale from the poison draining the life from Lee.

He brought his blade up in time to block a swing coming down on him, “You killed Lee!”

The warrior didn’t reply, he just kept swinging his sword: thrusting, slashing, parrying. Why? Why can’t I beat him? I am the greatest, I am the fastest, I am…. Jesse looked down to see a blade in his gut, the warrior pushed it in further. Jesse tried to talk, but could only cough up blood, so he tried to do the most courageous thing he could, he swung his sword at the man. The sword hit the warrior’s helmet, knocking the helmet off, but not actually doing any damage to the man himself. He saw a cruel face. The warrior had black hair, eyes that were about as black as can naturally be, and on the side of his face where the mask had been was a scar from forehead to jaw.

The warrior only smiled, then let go of Jesse, the last clear vision Jesse saw was of the man putting his helmet back on before pulling out the sword. After that Jesse couldn’t remember much, he had heard the sound of the city guard. Then felt himself being lifted up and heard voices talking about taking him in if he lived. His last thought was not of his life, or his friends. Hah, well looks like they won’t get their chance to take me in.

OOC: This is the end to the Legendary Outlaws.
Credits:
'Jesse Silverstar' played by Jesse Silverstar
'Lee Blade' played by Lee Blade
'Janna' played by Janna Shrail
'Carl' played by a drunk who was found outside the writing studio
'The guard' played by no one in particular
'The Dark Warrior' played by "unknown"
'The Vile Man' played by the manager of the studio

Posted by Adaiva Kilsan on 04-06-2002 02:59 PM:

A day in the life of an Apothecary...

Near the outskirts of the town of Bargra, a small hut nestled between a pig pen and a cattle house seems to glow with some odd radience from within. This was the house of the infamous Adaiva Kilsan, the apothecary that everyone thought lost her marbles. She had always been dabbling in the arts of "witch craft" and thus, banished to the worst of the slums in town. Not even the street beggar would desire such a home, stuck between foul smelling animals, right at the edge of town where the first blunt of an attack would hit.

Never-the-less, Adaiva felt comfortable here, since she was born in worse. The only thing that kept her financially afloat was her poisons and potions. Only half of the town really appreciated her skills.

From in the main room of her two room hut, Adaiva was mixing liquids and chemicals together, to form pultices and healing wraps for the injured.

Mumbling incoherintly, she bustled about the beat up rectangular oak table, mixing and pouring; drying and pounding into powders.

That was her daily routine. She would mix and create all afternoon and collect in the evening, in the surrounding countryside.

As the sun dipped below the plains and the moon took her place, Adaiva slipped out of her hut and into the hills beyond. Her plain, light blue dress dragged against the dew and was soaked past the hem. Her leather boots did little to protect her feet from the cold dampness that coated the grass in a watery blanket. Sighing heavily she wrapped her cheap wool cloak about her shoulders, shivering slightly with the cold.

In her hand was a basket with a low rim, for collecting herbs. She skimmed the ground with her eyes, veering off her path to make her way to a tree or two, where most of the herbs grew.

By midnight she had collected enough for her potions.

"All I do...all I do is collect ingredients for potions. Potions that are used for no purpose in my gain. I hate it here." Adaiva whispered to herself.

With so many years alone, she had started a habit of talking to herself, adding to her insane image. The people of bargra trusted her little, thinking that she was up to no good. They did not allow her to buy her food in the market but instead, if she was hungry enough, she would eat from the pig's slop. This disgusted her beyond anything she has ever done in her career.

It was that night she decided she did not want to live here any more. She did not want to be known as a "witch" any longer. She dropped her collections in her hut and marched off into the main courtyard. The people parted in her coming as she paraded as confidantly as she could through the crowded streets. Even for being the middle of the night, Bargra was known as the city that never sleeps; and that was absolutely right. People were up and about collecting the food for the morning breakfast, lunch then dinner.

As she walked through the streets, Adaiva felt the townsfolk's eyes staring holes in her body. She felt the damp coldness of rotten fruit and vegetables being thrown at her back.

Suddenly she could handle it no longer...

"YOU PEOPLE THINK YOUR SO SPECIAL! WELL THERE ARE SOME PEOPLE HERE THAT WISH THEY COULD MAKE A DECENT LIVING! ALL I WANT TO DO IS BUY AN APPLE! AND I'M NOT A WITCH!"

Cursing under her breath she shoved through a barring crowd to a fruit stand, where the fat merchant stood looking at her with with a mix of anger, fear and hostility in his black eyes.

she searched her little pouch and took out a few coppers and almost threw them at the man, grabbing an apple as she turned on her heel and headed out of the city, seething with anger and malice.

As she headed for the gate of the city, munchin on the apple, Adaiva mumbled hateful statements about the city of bargra, and her rotton life.

"Why...why do they not respect me? I've healed so many of their sick and injured...but what do they do? They throw rotten fruit at me! What kind of 'thank you' is that?"

With no goal in mind, she headed down the south road, towards Sungan. Suddenly she had a turn of heart. Feeling the cold wind bite at her ears and nip at her nose, she shivered and wrapped her flimsy cloak about her shoulders. Starring off in the night sky, she started to sob.

The uncrontrollable sobs racked her body and caused her knees to collapse. Kneeling in the street, tears pooling on the dusty road below her, she felt and heard the dull clank of metal against the gravel.

Turning she sees a tall horse, a shadowed, cloaked rider upon it, staring down at her. Reaching out a hand she reaches for it but the man disappears. It was a ghost...a figment of her twisted imagination.

Now sitting, she stared off to where she saw the man on the horse, almost wishing he'd come back.

Cursing, she rose to her feet, kicking a stone to skitter accross the roadway.

Now she had a choice...to continue on the road to Sungan...or return to Bargra and be the laughing stock of the town yet again...

__________________
Solus dilectio optime supero comtemno...
(only love conquers hate)

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift"
-Eleanor Roosevelt

Posted by Adaiva Kilsan on 04-07-2002 01:30 AM:

the meeting?

Standing in the uneasy darkness, Adaiva gazed out along the flat surroundings. Few trees embellished the featureless stretch of land. Tall grasses rippled in the passing breeze, as if someone dropped a pebble in a sea of vegetation, causing the ripples to float from it.

The hazy image of a cresent moon rose from the horizon, blocked by whisps of grey cloud, floating lazily by, blocking the radient rays of the moon, casting her part of Aeterna into darkness, little light escaping to guide her passage.

Muttering to herself about the cursed clouds she made her way towards the distant city of Sungan. Turning around briefly she watched as lonely wisps of smoke rose from chimneys of the houses in Bargra, the city that banished her.

Muttering under her breath, her voice dripping with malice and hate.

"You shall pay for my treatment. So many years...So many lives I've saved...Now its time for the other lives to end. They shall never want to blame me again. They will never accuse me, banish me, hate me. It is my turn. I shall triumph."

For a young girl she had big dreams. She had the horrid plan forming in her mind. The plan of Bargra's demise...

Suddenly from behind her she hears the muffled sound of footsteps. Whirling around she stares at the figure looming before her, seeming invisible against the dark sky.

"Who are you?"

"I'm Sidd...Sidd Earthsfyre of Ciwa."

The man before her extended his hand in greeting, a vague smile flitting across his face. Blinking rapidly Adaiva began to think of him as just another daymare, another haunted soul coming after her tortured mind.

"No...Why are you here? What do you want?"

"Um...nothing really. Saw you run off so I decided to follow you. Well I've introduced myself...now who are you? You seem rather..um...pissed to say the least."

This set her off. A torrent of dirty words that made no sense ripped from her mouth, causing Sidd to take a step backward. Once she caught herself she spoke more clearly.

"I'm Adaiva. I don't wish to tell you any more for I don't know if I can trust you. And if you must know, I left in such a hurry because I was driven out...they banished me. You haven't seen my home have you? Its like nothing you've seen. These people have treated me with so much...malice! They-"

"Erm..I've got the idea. So where ya headed?"

"Sungan."

"Oh great! Mind if I join you?"

"Why would you? My life is a miserable mess of nothing...It may rub off on you."

Her voice was full of sarcasm that seemed to drip from her mouth. Sidd was taken aback by this, her hostility and anger that seemed so ready to burst out at any moment. This woman was unpredictable...And usually when women like her are in this state, they're deadly...

__________________
Solus dilectio optime supero comtemno...
(only love conquers hate)

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift"
-Eleanor Roosevelt

Posted by Sidd Earthsfyre on 04-07-2002 01:54 AM:

Journal Entry

Sidd wanders around, writing down in his journal:

"Not a bad day, had a good map tradeoff, I wonder if that trader will mind if I stole a bit more on my way out... Anyway, on my way out I saw a large group of people near the fruit stand, seems some lady was having a bit of trouble. I then saw her walking off and decided to follow her to figure out what happened, I saw her kneeling in the middle of the street, staring at something that I could not see and cursing. I waited for a short while before approaching her. I introduced myself and she looked at me like I were an alien. I talked very little with her before she started cursing madly. I joined her in going to Sungan and I think this may be the start of a very... interesting frienship."

"Oh, it is now late, goodbye."

__________________
Those who watch their backs meet death from the front.

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery, Today is a gift, that is why it is called present.

Posted by Arboreal Prowler on 04-07-2002 11:38 AM:

Approaching death

OOC: Sidd, I looked at your profile, and your character would make a great Ranger.

IC: The Arboreal Prowler had been staying with the Tonday Rangers in Kar Thanas for over a week. As usual, the sun was blazing in the sky, trying to scorch the earth, but the gargantuan towers in the ancient city offered plenty of shade.

Bane Tallone, who was riding alongside the Prowler, looked over at him and said, "The Black Wolves must be gone by now. They couldn't survive the Tonday Desert for a whole week."

The Prowler looked straight ahead, toward the edge of town; it wasn't visible from the palace, where they were emerging. He raised his nose in the air. He couldn't smell or hear anything unusual; there was no sign that the Black Wolves were anywhere nearby. However, something bothered him. He could feel something in the air, and knew that something wasn't right. He had spent his whole life dealing with these creatures, and his instinct told him they were still hunting him.

"You'd be amazed at what they're capable of, Bane. I don't think they've left yet." He kept looking straight ahead, listening and looking for signs of an enemy. Every cloud of dust could be a band of thieves. "However, that's not our biggest concern. Let's just hope that we didn't lead any bandits to Kar Thanas. If the wealth of this city fell into the wrong hands..."

They rode on in silence until they had left Kar Thanas behind, then began discussing their next move. Ildur spoke first. "Rozun, the bandits and thieves in the area are all near the road. We should stay in the Tonday Desert until we reach the coast, then decide what to do from there."

The Arboreal Prowler looked off toward the south, then toward the north. "No. If those bandits are still trying to find you, it would be unwise to go south. We might lead them to Kar Thanas. I say we go north and take our chances on the road. They won't expect that; neither will the Black Wolves."

Halar looked out at the desert; barren and cold. The sun was beginning to set, falling under the horizon. He and the Black Wolves had been camping on Sentinel Hill since the Prowler entered the Tonday Desert.

He smiled. "The Arboreal Prowler will return north to the road. He thinks I don't know what he's doing. I've been hunting him for half of my life; I know his every move. Soon I will have him."

Tarkon approached Halar. "There is something coming from the east." They looked out to see a large group of men in the distance. "Halar, I don't like this. Death is upon us."

Halar growled. "Let us greet it with open arms." He looked up at the sky; it was getting dark. "Night is falling. We will be wolves when they get here."

__________________

I am the reason you are afraid of the dark. I am the reason you fear venturing alone into the woods. It is my name that is whispered by the trees and carried by the wind to your ears. I am the Arboreal Prowler.

Posted by Nelcar on 04-07-2002 12:27 PM:

Small Innocence...

…The hearts of the Elwain are difficult to understand, both strong like stone and delicate like glass. They are able to withstand the greatest weights of the world without faltering but will break under the weight of the smallest loss. But, like the Elwain themselves, their hearts are made to endure both long ages of triumph and of loss. If indeed, an Elwain heart is broken, from the foundations of what was lost, a new strength of heart can be forged to bear, once again, its living charge. In such a way, these creatures live, blessed to understand happiness more deeply and cursed to suffer pain and anguish more profoundly than any other living being…

And so, the lost soul, son of a loving mother and a wise and proud father, wandered, his heart still burning too brightly to yet see the darkness into which his heart had fallen. The White Lady was with him. He passed the men and women of Gania on the streets, and, although they stared at him, either because he was of the Elwain or because they could sense that he was reeling with pain somewhere deep within, he looked through them, seeing things that were not really there.

For a moment, Nelcar stopped and stared deeply into the darkness of a pathway that led between two tall buildings. The pathway was narrow, and the windows that pierced the aged whitewall looked out to the windows of the wall across the path, as if each building were staring the other in the eye. Somewhere in the darkness, he could hear the sound of water accompanied by the sounds of soft voices. Blindly, he followed the sounds until he came to the small children playing in the puddle, and the memory that had driven him here…the memory of Til’Sylvanna bathing in the pool…faded quickly.

Anger again accompanied him as he came to his senses. He would not have noticed, had he not felt one of the small children, a young boy with dirty clothes and bright blond hair, tug upon his breeches.

“What’s wrong, sir? You look sad. Are you lost?” asked the boy, as he held onto a leather strap attaching a small pouch to Nelcar’s pocket.

It took a moment for Nelcar to answer the lad because, truly, he was taken aback by the question. He thought to himself and soon realized that he could not recall having ever been lost. But now he was, and this young boy had, apparently, seen his plight.

Then Nelcar laughed aloud. “Why yes, yes I am. I need to find a good horse but don’t seem to know where I could purchase one in this city.” He looked into the young boy’s eyes and could tell that the little one was readying to give him all sorts of advice.

“I don’t suppose that you might be able to lead me to one?” he asked, with a slight smile upon his face.

Seconds later, he was being tugged from the alley by the young boy and two others, a skinny boy, dirty but well dressed, and a tiny girl, the youngest of the three. The skinny boy seemed to know where he was going best, but the other, the one who had bravely approaced Nelcar, tried to look as if he were leading the way.

“Why do you have big ears?” asked the little girl, almost running behind, stumbling to keep up.

“Well,” he said as he picked her up, “you may touch them if you would like. But, they’re not that big, are they?”

"Not really,” she replied with innocence, “but they are bigger than my ears.”

“That, my little lady, is because I am older than you and more grown up. Your ears will get bigger someday too, I suppose,” he said. He smiled when the little girl quickly grasped and covered her own ears and could obviously tell that she didn’t like hearing that they might someday get bigger.

__________________

Tend to the litany,
and bare it with your wisdom.
Then, with wisdom more, bear it,
and litigate that which has now become your Law.

Posted by Bara Chinder on 04-07-2002 03:44 PM:

The sun was very low over the crags when Bara arose the next day. He had been glad to have a sheltered night and in payment he and conchuir stood the watch for the first part of the day.

When they were relieved they went to see canna again.
"Where to now, Canna?"

"Yall have to go north, ta see the morrigan. Shes our head of Tribe. We all listen ta her." Replied the tall muscular woman. "If she say ta fight the sleebhfir fight!"

"How far do we go?" asked Bara

"Whose ta know? Bout two days and yal be in her hunts. 'Ter that Your best be lookin hard." She giggled with the last statement. "Youll know well when you find har. She always have a warband. She commands us, as she fight the best and has many strong childers." She added.

"Right then," said conchuir, "we'll have to leave soon. will we send for you?"

Bara answered this. "When we convince the morrigan we will have no need to worry about when to bring the sleebh fir. They will come."

"Alright then. My thanks for your hospitality. we'll get on then."

"Grand then. See you fair."

As the two set out, Conchuir turned to Bara "Why are you so sure that they'll come?"

"Because they will all come to the warhost of their leader. I spent a lot of time down with these folk. They are feircly loyal, and as wild as they seem, they are some of the most generous people youll find. However the sleebhfir in battle rage is a sight that would frighten any one to their soul."

"I see. Then we will concentrate on the Morrigan?"

"Yes."

Within a day they were in much less fertile lands. The Fauna of these footlands seemed almost evil. Tough lands and they were the hunts of the Morrigan..

__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.

Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown

Posted by Adaiva Kilsan on 04-07-2002 05:00 PM:

Companions

Adaiva was sorely unused to traveling with another person. Especially a man younger than her. Sighing heavily she walked ahead of Sidd, The sun rising slowly above the horizon, light flooding the plains.

The light seemed to lift her heavily spirits, sodden and low with hate. The sight of the early morning made her think of the good things. The curse has lifted.

"Hey listen...Sidd...um...I'm sorry for how I blew up last night...I'm just...stressed....I guess."

Sidd lifted his face from looking at his journal, writing like mad to look at Adaiva.

"Um...ok."

"Whatcha writing?"

"This is my journal...I'm just recording the journey."

"Ah..."

Silence loomed over the two as they continued to travel. The sun eventually freed herself from the binds of the horizon, floating into the sky. The air was clear of clouds, the faint blue sky glowing with the light from the glowing yellow ball in the sun. Adaiva's eyes burned with the sudden light and suddenly grew hungry.

"Ugh...I'm so hungry..."

"Yeah me too." replied Sidd, still writing in his journal.

Adaiva eventually gave up starting conversation with this bookworm and continued on the road.

Suddenly and without warning the jubulant chirping of the birds suddenly stopped. The wind ceased to travel over the featureless surroundings. Everything was still...as if frozen in time.

"Um...Sidd...get your nose out of that..journal thing...I think we have trouble."

Sidd looked up and closed his journal, his face that of fear and curiosity.

"Silence before the storm..." Sidd's voice trailed off as a flock of birds leaped into the sky from a few hundred yards to their right. Adaiva and Sidd both stood side-by-side, looking off as something slinked through the grass. The two armed any weapons they had and stared at the thing crawling towards them, the ominous shadow slipping through the tall stalks of grass.

Suddenly it lifted its head.

"Phew...its only a fox..."

"Yeah. Do they kill people?"

"A fox? Are you crazy? Look at it! Its...a tiny little doggy thing...It can't hurt us."

"Whatever Adaiva..."

Wrinkling up her nose Adaiva walked to the fox, slowly extending her hand. Oddly enough the creature did not run, just stared at her.

"Silly fox..."

Just when she was about to reach out and touch the fox Sidd let out a loud whistle at the fox bolted off.

"SIDD WHY'D YOU DO THAT?!"

"Eeeerm...I don't like fox..."

"Whatever. Lets go."

Mumbling to herself she put her dagger back in her belt hanging around her waist.

Behind her, Sidd couldn't help but snicker. Of course he wasn't afraid of foxes...He was a traveler for most of his life. He enjoyed Adaiva's reactions anyway, always overreacting about most of his jokes. Chuckling, he opened his journal and put his most recent joke on the pages, his grin still present on his face.

Ahead of her, a few miles off was the thole canyon...

__________________
Solus dilectio optime supero comtemno...
(only love conquers hate)

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift"
-Eleanor Roosevelt

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-07-2002 05:37 PM:

What a life...

Kai slipped through the alleys, keeping to the shadows. In the main streets people bustled about their business, trading and selling their wares.

A sneer flitted across her face as she stalked a wealthy merchant. On his table fruits seemed to call to her. Or maybe that was her stomach...She didn't care. The apples...pears...peaches and bannana's made her salivate.

Biting her toungue she sneaked behind the table and ducked behind the boxes. Carefully she reached into a crate and took an apple. Feeling the smooth, cool shape of the fruit a malicious grin crossed her face. From there she checked her getaway and slunk into a shadowed alley and bit into the juicy apple, letting the juice run down her chin.

"Mmmm..."

Finishing the apple she tossed the core into a beat up looking box and walked off, her shadowy form disappearing behind a column of steam.

Looking as innocent and honest as she could, Kai walked into the open. This is dangerous for a small time thief with countless bounties looming over her, but she must do this to get to her friend's house.

As she approached the simple hut in the subburbs of Akaros she was yanked heavily into a narrow street, generally uninhabited, except for a small gang of large men...all who need a bath.

"Um...can I help you fiiine men?" Of course she was flattering her way out of this one, but as many times as it works it fails.

"Absoletly not you whore."

"Me?" replied Kai, trying to sound innocent. Unfortunatly an insurmountable bit of sarcasm screws everything.

Then men sneered and moved in for the kill, their swords and other weaponry gleeming in the faint light. One of the men, apparently their leader, had a firm grip on her left arm.

"No need for hostility now guys. What have I done?"

"Plenty."

"Like what?"

"You owe us your promises."

Suddenly the facts hit her, but she wanted to buy time.

"Um...you've lost me."

"Shut up you. We know and so do you. Now give us what we want and we'll let a purty little lady like yourself free to do what rotten crap you do!"

"Well! I never!" A smirk played against her features as she played a drama queen, mimicking the rich women from which she generally does her thieving.

The man holding her arm growled deep.

"Sheesh...You guys are rather uptight. What if I told you i'll give you what you want...tomorrow?"

"Right. And then we'll have to hunt you down to get it. Nah. We're not stupid like the other guys, always falling for a woman's flattery and their stupidity."

"I beg your pardon. I bet I could take...Him!"

She pointed to a rather large man, wearing tight pants and a leather trenchcoat, exposing his muscular chest. A rather evil smirk crawled up on his face and he readjusted his grip on his rapier, walking towards her and giving her captor a shove to the side.

"You. You want to fight me?" With that the man laughed.

"I'm keen, I'm swift! I'm Javier!"

"And Is that supposed to intimidate me?"

Javier laughed, his deep booming voice echoing off the walls.

As he laughed she whipped out a convenient dagger and thrust it into his liver.

"See? I told you I could! Well good luck to you all."

Giving a slight wave she edged over and out of the alley, blending with the crowds. Unfortunatly it was hard for her, she was a towering 6' 5" and thus being hard to hide.

Nevertheless she slipped into her friend's hut and managed to lose them.

"Kai I need you to do a job. I need for you to kill a man named Arann Tysiel."

Kai looked to her friend, Pablos, who was her father's friend for a while until she left. The old man's face was twisted up in saddness of what she was sending the girl to do.

Arann was the most powerfull warrior in Akaros. And she had to kill him...

__________________
We tell lies
when we are afraid, afraid of what we don't know, afraid of what others will think, afraid of what will be found out about us.
But everytime we tell a lie...the thing we fear grows stronger. Life is all about risks and it requires you to jump.
Don't be a person who has to look back and wonder what they would have, or could have had...

Posted by Cybele Ariadne on 04-07-2002 06:28 PM:

“What type of things?”

“He’ll kill you!” said the chipmunk

“We’ll I’m not that afraid of dying.” she said with a shiver “I need to get out of here anyway, just in case he tries to kill Azure.”

“He’s not going to…”

“Huh? What is he going to do then?”

“I don’t know. It sounds like he’ll use him to get something.”

But what item would cause all this trouble?”

A man came up from the forest and walked strait to Cybele. Cybele made a strange noise to the chipmunk and the chipmunk hid behind her foot.

“So you’re the one he wants huh?”

“I don’t think so… He could be after some of the henchmen. I heard him talking about a traitor.”

“A traitor? Who?”

“I don’t know. I say you should keep your eyes peeled out for someone who could be suspicious.”

The man gave a big laugh at her as if a word she had said didn’t make sense.

“Your kidding right? A traitor of Crane??? Why he would kill him in a second.”

“He’s that powerful??”

“Yes. He’s very smart too. He probably knows who the traitor is right now.”

Yea.. Right…

“Wow.. He seems scary to me.”

“Yep. I’m glad he’s my boss and not my enemy.”

Ok, ok, just shut up about him already!

“Um.. Sorry to ask but I really have to go use the ladies room… So could you let me out of these ropes? You can watch if you want.”

Eww.. That’s disgusting Cyb!

“Heh heh.. In that case sure. But don’t let Crane see you or it’s my ass…”

“Ok..”

The henchmen pulled a knife from his pocket and cut the rope. She immediately kicked him in his stomach and side kicked him in his jaw. The chipmunk ran from her foot and then to a small rock nearby the pole. Cybele then did a spinning back kick almost at the ground and knocked the man over. She then ran to his knife and forced it at the man’s throat.

“Alright, I’m going to ask you three questions ok?”

“Ok ok just don’t hurt me!”

“Number one. Where are my things?”

“What things?”

“My cape! My sword! My dagger!”

“There in Cranes tent!” he said with fear in his eyes

Damn… Not in his tent!

“Number two, what does Crane want with Azure?”

“I don’t know!”

She forced the knife closer to his throat.

“Alright! Aright! He wants to use it to get some sacred expensive item.”

“What item is it?”

“I don’t know!”

She forced closer to his throat almost choking him.

“Honest I’m telling the truth.”

“Ok last question!”

“What do you think your doing!?” yelled a voice from behind

__________________

Posted by Arboreal Prowler on 04-07-2002 07:11 PM:

The Black Wolves' Last Stand

OOC: Thanks to Ruby for the idea for this post

IC: Halar watched the figures approaching from a distance; they were moving very fast. Halar knew that these could not be humans, moving at that pace. These were the creatures about which he had heard only rumors.

Shadowspawn.

The creatures came quickly, but not quickly enough. The sun, as if spurred by some hasty rider, flew through the sky and fell below the horizon. Bit by bit, the black sky became filled with stars, as if salt had been spilled on a great black table. The wind swirled around the Black Wolves like a great tornado, rustling their fur.

The Black Wolves bared their teeth and howled, a dissonant chord that rang loud and clear across the desert. Their eyes glowed red with fury, and they wrinkled their noses and started barking ferociously. They all stopped and let out one more dissonant howl as they transformed into full wolves.

Now on all fours, the Black Wolves got into formation and sprang forward. They ran toward the Shadowspawn faster than the speed of night, and approaching death came over them like an ominous, warm blanket.

Halar picked out and attacked one of the Shadowspawn. Its head seemed to make up half of its body. It had an enormous snout with huge, razor-sharp teeth. Its legs were large and muscular, and on the end of each arm were two terrible blades, stained with blood. The creature was twice as large as a man.

Halar leaped at the Shadowspawn and went for the throat; the creature's snapping teeth barely missed him. Halar dug his claw into its throat, ripping it open. The Shadowspawn gasped for breath, then fell over, dead.

Tarkon lunged at a creature shaped like a man, but with black skin, sharp claws, and much more muscle. Tarkon drove into the creature's chest, knocking it to the ground. He then ripped the creature's chest open with his claws. It was soon dead.

As soon as Halar finished his first kill, he moved on to the next. His next target was the size of several men, walked on four legs, had black skin, and it was hard to tell in which direction the creature was moving, for it had a large, round club on each end of its body where the head and tail should have been. Halar leaped at one of the creature's necks, but was smacked with one of its clubs. The impact broke two of Halar's ribs, and he was thrown to the ground. The club then came crashing to the ground as Halar jumped out of the way, dodging it by a few inches. He quickly ran under the creature's legs and sunk his claws and teeth into its gut. He ripped open the creature's body, and its innards came pouring out. Halar ran away as the creature fell to the ground dead.

He turned around to see Carlea's body on the ground; her throat had been sliced open. Halar ran over to her, but she was already dead. He let out a mournful howl.

The fight raged on for an hour, and Halar found himself alone. All of his companions were dead, and he was wounded. He turned around to flee, and barely escaped with his life.

Posted by Etul Hevennraugh on 04-07-2002 07:18 PM:

And so the adventure begins...

As Etul opens his eyes looking up at the ceiling, laying on his bed, he hears the quiet, peaceful sound of... "AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!"
He jumps up and looks out the inn's window to see a robber attacking this...girl?

"Help!" She screamed. Etul gets up, gets dressed and picks up his sword. He runs out up to the rooftop and sees the robber cornering the helpless female. "Hey you!" He screams at the robber, "Why dont you pick on someone your own size?" The robber pulls out his dagger and shows it at him. "Heh.." Etul laughs "That all you got?" He pulls out his broad sword. As soon as the thief glances at the giant broad sword he runs off.

The hero jumps down onto a smaller building then on to the ground next to the girl. "Are you alright?" He asks her. She just stares at him, "Hello? You okay?" More silence until... "MY HERO!!" she bursts out and clinges onto him. He sighs and tries to walk away but she is clinging onto his feet.

"Let go!" He says trying to get her off. "But-but your my savior, you'll protect me!"she states, "Protect you from who?" He asks confused. "From-from the thieves. I accidently saw them stealing food and money one night and now they want to silence me... f-for good!"she replies, scared. Her ears twitched and her sad looking face begged him. "Alright I'll help you." He said.

Just then a horde of thieves including the one they saw earlier run in and corner them in the allyway. "There they are, get 'em!!" That same robber yelled. Etul grabbed the girl and jumped up to the roftop of the inn. They rest for a little bit, only a second though since the thieves climbed up with them. "Grab on to my hand!" she shouts. He does and she jumps from building to building with Etul hanging on to her hand. She finally stops at the other side of town. "We gotta stay low." She said "You still havent told me your name." "Its Etul, Etul Hevennraugh. Yours?" "Marinas Jabila. Well we better find someplace to stay."

-EDIT- I edited that which needed to be and left it as close to the original idea as I could. If you have any problems, please PM me.

~KR

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-08-2002 01:58 PM:

Arann

Kai gasped.

"Arann?! For what reason?"

"He has taken Leer..someone tipped him off again."

"WHAT?"

"Yeah...he was doing a job in the high-end part of Akaros and he was ambushed by Arann and some of his men...your going to have to kill Arann to free him I think...plus Arann is the one getting all the info. I'm still working on finding our insider, you take care of Arann."

"But..."

Her voice trailed of as it slowly sank in. Leer was her best friend for 10 years of her life. 19 as well, Leer was by her side during her training and he was there for her to lean on during her rough life. He was her confidant...her friend...now he was gone. taken by Arann Tysiel.

She had only but a few hours to set out. Pablos helped her out by equipping her with her rapier and daggers. She stocked herself with all the necessary items for a thief and stood staring at the mirror, fully dressed in black, soft-soled boots to lessen her footsteps, tunic and pants of the deepest ebony. Her dark hair would help her blend, but her face was pale. She slapped on some grease paint to blotch her face to blend with the shadows.

Sighing heavily she turned to look at the door, gazing at the dark oak, the lines and patterns seeming to draw her in. A tear slipped down her face as she took in a deep breath and walked to the door, making little noise.

Slipping out into the back alley she kept to the shadows, walking slowly and making sure her footsteps are set in the right place, as to not run into something and trigger suspicion of her presence.

Her destination was right before her. The upper end of Akaros...

Posted by Volsung on 04-08-2002 04:39 PM:

learing as you Travel

Volsung and Nascent, had left the inn early in the morning, and started on their why to Militus. On there way out of town they ran it to a band of gypsy heading for Militus so Volsung and Nascent join up with the group, as they walked along Volsung got into a conversation with a man named Fidius. “So are you two doing traveling to Militus?” He asked he a big smile on his face, as if he knew the answer, but wanted to ask any ways.

“Well Sir,” said Volsung not wanting to Lie, but knowing that be couldn’t tell the true came up with this. “I am a traveler, I have been on the road now for about 8 mouths, in that time I have seen all of Gran Adageros, Sailed across the beautiful Sea to this fine land, of which I have seen The Sacred Grove and the cities of Pontifar, and Filiam. My goal is to see all of Asheri before I’m done.” Fidius seem taken back by all this.

“You have had quite a trip in these eight mouths.” He said with an odd expression on his face. Then he turned to Nascent, “What about you sir?”

“Well I was in Gran Adageros on business, but when it was time to go home my ride never showed up. So as favor to get back to Asheri, I told Volsung here that I would lead him around if he would give me a ride. That’s more or less why I’m here.”

Fidius was smile once again when he Nascent finished speaking, “Wow two great Travelers of the world. What a blessing I have so many questions to ask you both.”

“We would love to answer all your questions or at least I would love to answer all your Questions if you can answer a few of mine,” said Volsung doing his best to not give always his true intent.

“I would love to answer any of your questions, but I don’t know if what I know could even come close to what you two have been through. I mean my family has spent the last five generations traveling road of Nyliam, trader and merchants, but I will try to answer any of your questions.”

Volsung bowed his head in respect and then spook up, “What would be the best way to see all the cities in Nyliam?”

Fidius sat and thought for a moment, “Well, I would have to say when you get to Militus you should turn west to Nyliam Proper. After that you will have to back track down the road for a little bit but after about a days walk you will find a road heading southeast to Hillslay from there head east to Karakai. Once you get to Karakai you will be though the worst of the roads, and you will be able to follow the main road and that will take you though Farlarn, New Dargent, and then you will go into what was Lunis.”

“Wow you do know the roads well! This will be a big help in our travels. By the way what can tell about the cities themselves?” Said Volsung

“Well let me think,” said Fidius, “Well Militus is home to Nyliam High Command, it is also home to the Nyliam Academy of the Martial Arts, and the School of Battle Magic.”

“Wow, sounds like impressive place,” said Volsung.

“It is and that is also where 2/3 of the army is stationed. They’re also doing something outside of town, but I haven’t been able to see what it is because the area is guarded at all times.”

“It sounds like quite the place.” Said Nascent speak up for the first time in a while.

“It is, and I have much more to tell you.” And so the day went by with Fidius telling Volsung and Nascent all there was to know about Nyliam, but the one thing that stuck out in his mind it was that place that was always guarded outside of Militus. “I am going to have to check that out myself.”

__________________

"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"

Posted by Freya Devi on 04-08-2002 06:42 PM:

“There’s one thing I need to get before we go. We’ll actually a few things,” she said with a giggle “ But I need to go to my place first.”

“Alright lead on…”

They ran out of town together and into Thar Beach. Noah stayed outside and waited. She ran inside her home and went straight to the cupboards. She grabbed a few bottles of potions and herbs and placed them into her bag.

Looks like I’ll have to search for the rest of the items in need in the forest.

This and one more thing..”

She went to the door and pulled out from behind it her staff. She held it in her right hand and walked back outside.

“Wait here.” she said to Noah

She walked down the beach to her mother’s grave. She pulled out matches from her bag and lit one in her hand. She placed it on every candle by the grave. Lighting them all up she left the grave not saying a word.

Creator.. I ask that you keep those candles lit until I come back from my journey.

She walked back to her house and walked passed Noah without saying anything. She just made a signal to follow her and he did. She started to make a fast paced run down the road. Noah was behind her trying to keep up.

“Why are you going so fast?”

“We need to get out of here don’t we?”

“Yes but were already out of town.. I think we can go slower now.”

Freya stopped in her tracks and walked back to Noah. A serious look comes on her face.

“I’m sorry if I’ve troubled you…. But I’d really like to get as afar away from this place as I can. If you want to rest that’s fine. We’ll stop here.”

Freya went off the road and stopped by a rock. She started to search around it for any fungus. She picked up a few pieces and placed it in a bottle. She then placed the bottle in her bag and started to search again.

I must find that flower.

“What are you looking for?” asked Noah

“A special flower. Its used in a powder I use for explosions. When mixed with saltwater it can turn into fire.”

“Fire?? Don’t you think that’s a little too dangerous for you?”

“No. I’ve dealt with worse. Why? Do you think a lady shouldn’t be handling things like this?”

“We’ll….. I do believe that a lady should be always safe.”
“Maybe that true for you but I think no one is safe. So we should always be prepared.” she said with a smile

“Are we making camp here?”

“If that’s what you want sure. Besides it’s the best place to find certain items I need"

__________________
Parsley Sage Rosemary and Thime.....She was a true love of mine...

Posted by Arboreal Prowler on 04-08-2002 08:09 PM:

A refugee

The Arboreal Prowler and the Tonday Rangers set camp and built a bonfire. The flames reached high into the air and tickled the sky. The Rangers told ancient stories in a ceremonial fashion, and some danced around the fire.

There were many of them, and they were all skilled archers; they were safe from any attack by the Black Wolves. The Prowler was able to disarm himself and lay down his elven bow on the ground. However, he did not go to sleep, though he felt fatigue pulling at his eyelids. Some of the Rangers had drums, and their steady rhythm and dark tone warmed his heart. With the rhythmic beating of the drums and the storytellers' excited voices, the Prowler was filled with a feeling of harmony and peace. This was where he belonged; he was not a slave to civilization, but a son of the earth. Out in the cool desert night, sitting with his brothers, he was truly happy. It was a feeling he had not felt in a long time.

Some time past midnight, when the dancing and stories had ended, silence fell on the tribe of Rangers. The silence was soon broken by a cry piercing through the night air; the sound came from one of the men on watch.

"Wolf!" The Rangers all took up their bows, those who had fallen asleep were roused, and they looked out into the darkness. The lone figure of a wolf came walking slowly out of the distance. They saw nothing else, so they didn't fire. When the creature came closer, they realized it was wounded.

The Arboreal Prowler walked slowly out, away from the bonfire, to meet the wolf. When he was about twenty feet away, he stopped and kneeled. The wolf reluctantly limped to him, paused, and collapsed into his arms. Looking closely, the Prowler saw that the creature was badly bruised, and had a large wound on its side.

The Prowler yelled to the other Rangers. "Help! He's wounded!"

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-08-2002 09:10 PM:

the journey

The upper portion of Akaros was reknown for its higher class of people. Most were wealthy, well-to-do merchants or people of high social status. These people were both hated and loved for their riches and popularity, some even good friends of the High Lord.

Talenor was one of those wealthy merchants, trading over the sea with Gania and Asheri, and a good friend of the High Lord. He was the one that was holding Leer with Arann, most likely his hired assassin or good friend. Thus Leer was in serious danger.

Stealthily Kai slunk through the narrow streets and deepening shadows as the sun made her way down towards the horizon. It was about 6 pm now, the sun usually setting about 9. Glancing up at the sun occasionally, she wished she had left later, then it would be dark enough for the shadows to be longer, and the sky to be darker, allowing her black figure to move without worry of being spotted.

I hope Leer's OK...

After traveling for about half and hour, she reached the subburbs of the upper class.

Where is Talenor's house...I knew this one once...I remember a fountain...yes a large fountain in the main courtyard...

Searching the front courtyards of every house on every street she finally came to the familiar large, white marble house with huge collumns rising before it, ornately decorated. A huge, fantastic fountain imaging a gracefull angel, water fountaining from her cupped hands, a serene countanence seemed to lighten the fact that Talenor was an assassin...a murderer and she didn't want to know what else.

Ah hah!

slipping beneath a ornate weeping willow draping its long tendrils over a smooth path leading through the front garden, Kai watched the building.

Suddenly there was a hand reaching out and grabbing hold of her shoulder, yanking her behind the tree...

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-08-2002 09:54 PM:

Kai let out a muffled yelp as she was pulled suddenly behind a tree, a large hand clasping over her mouth.

"Don't struggle...It's me, Pablos..."

Releasing his hand Kai whirled around to face her friend.

whispering loudly, she gasped out her reply,

"Pablos?! What are you doing here? No offense but your not as accomplished at this kind of stuff as me and Leer..."

"I know this...I had to come no matter what...the underground is being discovered as we speak!"

"What? You mean..."

"Yes. They know pretty much everyone who's active in our goings-on...including you and Leer."

"Oh crap..."

"Yes...I had to get out and warn you. And to tell you I'm going into exile up in Ioty, if you need me thats were I am..."

"But where will me and Leer go if...we escape alive?"

"Ioty."

"I know that, but where in Ioty?"

"south eastern part, in an inn called the Pheonix Rising"

"OK. Now you get out of here before you get us both in trouble."

"Right-o...I'm going now, good luck!"

Kai nodded and watched the large man return to his cart hidden in the bushes skirting the roadway. Sighing heavily she slunk down the path, keeping low to hide amongst the roses, small flowering bushes and flowers of all kinds. As she moved along the cobblestone pathway, winding its way lazily along through the garden, her ears were pricked for every sound, her feet being placed slowly and carefully as to not strike attention in her direction.

Finally reaching the back part of the house she gazed in an open window on the second level. Inside she could see the form of Telenor pacing along the floor, the shadow of a man tied to a chair casted against the wall. Sucking her breath she guessed the slumped over man was Leer himself.

Suddenly Telenor stopped and started to shout at a man she could not see. Craning her ears she listened in, slowly slipping towards the house, avoiding the keen eyed sentries.

Barely able to be heard, the shouts of Telenor drifted out the window.

"ARANN! HOW COULD YOU BE SO....FOOLISH! HOW COULD YOU LET SOMEONE FOLLOW YOU?!"

Unfortunatly she could hear much less of Arann's reply.

"I didn't mean to......ratted on me.....fool."

Biting her lip she slid back behind a large hedge cut in the shape of a giraffe.

So Arann isn't so good anymore is he? He got followed...I wonder by whom.

The yelling debate stopped suddenly as a horrible scream burst from the house. Flinching she turned around and peered around the hedge.

She watched as Leer's bent over form suddenly feel from the chair.

Posted by Avatar Worldmaker on 04-08-2002 11:15 PM:

OOC: Partial credit for this post goes to Orocia.

IC:

The four travelers had decided to get a room at the Grey Behemoth Inn here in Militus before setting out back towards Balanum the next day. They had picked the inn because of its price, for they were running low on money, and for its location, just inside the eastern city gates. The two couples had split off to their two bedrooms for the evening, and Alex and Orocia were just getting settled into their room.

Alex looked up from his vantage point as he pushed the Redeemer and his traveling pack under their bed. Orocia stood over the washbasin, and was wiping her face with a damp towel. Alex blushed ever so slightly when she turned about, and raised his eyes from where they had been looking to meet her own. Again, she had the same distant look in her eyes from earlier, but now they had a piercing sadness which troubled Alex's heart.

Alex stood, stretching his legs out. His shirt was unbuttoned, and pulled from his pants. His jacket lay across the bed, and he looked much more casual than normal. the ties of his red headband blew gently across his back as he stood silently, looking towards his love. He took a step forward, but the sadness in her eyes was undeniable, and Alex could do little else than step towards her and into a soft embrace. Her arms wrapped up and around his neck, and his arms about her waist. The sadness seemed to fade a bit with the contact, and the corners of Orocia's mouth curled up slightly before their lips met. Then, however, she slowly pulled away, but remained in the embrace. She gently laid her head on his shoulder and held him tight. Her hand slid down onto his chest and she stood there merely enjoying the rise and fall of his breaths. She knew that soon enough she'd miss him like all hell.

Alex took a short reverie in this moment, leaning his head against Orocia's, and gently rubbing her back. It was the times like this that he cherished most with her. The time when there was nothing to be said, and nothing needed to be said. They were simply happy when they were together. But, recently, that deep seated sadness within Orocia had been surfacing more and more often. He knew he had to say something about it soon. Orocia kissed his neck softly, breathing in his scent, and whispered his name, feeling the breath roll off her tongue as if it were a new word. Her heart pained and loved at the same time, but for now, all she wanted was to love.

Her hands found their way to his back, and again she spoke his name softly, "..Alex."

She buried her face in his chest but she felt him pull back a little. She knew tonight she would have to answer his questions, maybe not all of them, but she would have to give some answer.

Alexandros peered into her eyes, the deep blue-green scintillating in the late afternoon sun as it peeked through the curtains of their room, "Orocia? What is it? What is this thing that is causing you so much pain?"

Goddess, those eyes... The love behind them was so strong. She felt herself shiver in their gaze and made herself look down, drawing in a long, deep breath. She took his hands in hers and led him to the bed. She wasn't dressed in much, either, just a half open shirt and a pair of panties. She sat in a lazy kneel, with her legs folded out to her sides. Alex followed her easily, not resisting in the least. As he sat next to her upon the soft feather filled mattress, he gazed upon her smooth, tanned legs before shifting to look upon her lips. A tatoo of a tiger was easily visible on the inside of her upper thigh, and Alex paused for a moment and examined it. Orocia's heart fluttered as he did, and though he did not see the look upon her face, for a moment it was that of a trained killer on a mission. She shook her head for a moment, clearing her senses and realizing that she was no longer a girl, but a woman. A woman that was in Love, and just barely able to deny that she was to herself. She shook off of the resurgence of her past just in time to meet with Alexandros' big, pretty grey eyes. The sensation had subsided, but every other man that had ever seen that tatoo, had died. By her hand.

Alex looked at her for a moment, reguarding her beauty, and as Orocia shook her head, it became as if she was poised as if to speak, but it seemed as if she was having trouble finding the right words. Finally she spoke, in a somewhat horace voice, as if the words themselves were hurting her, "Alex.. You've asked me about my past before. ...Alex," she broke off, looking at the headboard, "..my past has all of sudden resurrected itself to haunt me. It won't rest. It won't leave me alone.. And.."

She looked up into his eyes, passion beginning to well up in her. "..Alex, I need to send it back to its grave." At this she gave a short, but sad laugh, "I know that didn't answer anything"
She looked back down, unsure of what else to say, quietly, she added,"...it's getting in the way between you and me..." Still looking down, she bit her lip.

Alex's eyes did not change, but a sigh escaped his lips. His pale skin, in distinct opposition to Orocia's deep tan, easily showed the color in his cheeks, and he raised his right hand to gently brush at Orocia's cheekbone. He did not speak, but smiled uneasily. He knew, deep down, that she was going to leave him. He only hoped that she was not leaving him forever.

His gray eyes sparkled in the sunset as he turned for a moment to look out the window. The usual look of determination and courage had suddenly fallen out and had been replaced by the look of hopelessness present in the many refugees they had both seen in Lunis, nearly two months before. He simply looked out towards the setting sun, seemingly unaware of all that was around him.

Without turning, his voice cracked a bit as he began to speak. His tone was his norm, but carried with it a distinct waver that Orocia had never heard before, “Orocia… I love you.. I love you more and more every day. I would protect you from anything that you’ve done in the past, so long as I could be with you. I would walk through the gates of darkness to save you from the clutches of the Mistress herself, but I know you are leaving. Why, and to where, I do not know, and it is not my place to ask. You will tell me if you see it fit,” He paused for a moment, turning back to Orocia, "I love you, Orocia. Everything about you brings a smile to my lips, and warmth to my heart. I don't want to lose you,"

Although Orocia was still looking down, Alex noticed her lip began to tremble. Suddenly her eyes looked up to meet his, and he saw that they were lightly rimmed with tears. Her breath was a little rough, seemingly from trying to hold back her emotions. Her eyes managed to hold his gaze, as she began to let the first drops of that wave of emotion fall, "Alex, I love you."

Alex moved slowly to take Orocia in an embrace, and she willingly fell into his arms. They sat for several moments in the silence, but both of them could hear their hearts hammering in their own ears. Orocia couldn't take it anymore.

"Alex..." Her hands caressed his face as her lips kissed his, and kiss followed kiss followed kiss followed kiss, each more passionate than the first, and growing ever more carnal with quickly rising passion, "Alex, I love you... I'll come back to you... With all my life I'll come back to you, oh, by the Creator's blessed hand I'm coming back to you..."

Alex was overwhelmed at first by the ferocity with which Orocia was attacking him, but soon, he was falling easily to Orocia's kisses and caresses. She roughly pushed him back onto the bed and ripped the shirt from his body, and the two of them tumbled across the bed in each others' arms, sharing their passionate love for one another. Alex could no longer even think of her leaving, for he was fully convinced that she would return.

His words between embraces, kisses and soft touches were short and fast, "Orocia... I love you... I know you'll come back... You make me so happy..."

Orocia now found herself looking up into his eyes, out of breath but breathing for more, hungry for him with innocent eagerness, so unlike the many loveless times before, hungry for his holy sexual delicacy, knowing that the craving and starving she would suffer away from him would help drive her back into his arms. Soon, belts, knives, pants and underthings were falling to the floor as the pair ravenously held each other close, letting go only to loose more of their unnessecary accessories.

Orocia pulled back the sheet lightly as the first rays of sunlight began to break through the window. She nimbly maneuvered over Alex as he slept, looking so peaceful, and yet so frail. There was a piece of her that felt changed, as this man had shared in a part of her that only dead men had known of, and yet, she was happier for having done it. She washed briefly in the washbasin in the corner of the room, and before she left, she removed some of the deep red powders that the women of Southdale so often used upon their lips, and pressed it on. She then kissed Alex softly on the cheek, but for an extended period, so that it left a mark in the shape of her lips in the deep red.

And then she was gone…

__________________
We all want to change the world...

Posted by Emperor Aramus VanVehementi on 04-09-2002 12:43 AM:

Classified: If seal is broken, interrogate carrier immediately.
To Emperor VanVehementi
From General Marcus Antridyus

Status Updates Regarding Project Valkyrie

Aeronaval yard has been completed. Hermes class prototype is under construction. Progress is estimated at 50%. Current implementations include the experimental Dralar alloy battle armor given to the engineers by the Magi alchemy researchers. Weapon systems are still under development, hence they will not be included in prototype. Propulsion system has been successfully field tested - engineers note flight will be possible with prop only. No balloon is needed, project development slated to continue without delay. Aeronaval yard under heavy patrols. Random spawn encounters are reported by resource gathering teams along the Dark Wood - so far nothing the patrols haven't been able to deal with. Provided any unforeseen situations are avoided, Valkyrie flight test is scheduled in 4 days time at end of prototype completion. End of Report.

Aramus inserted a dull metal key into the lock that kept his secret files unattainable to prying eyes and turned it quickly to release the bolt. The heavy oak drawer slid satisfyingly outwards revealing a cache of forbidden Nylian plans, portfolios, and dossiers. The Valkyrie project was moving along swiftly having been prioritized as the primary action of the Nylian military. He had a great task ahead of him that not even his highly trained and heavily numbered army would be able to achieve on its own. His aeronaval yard would be soon producing nearly invulnerable airships to aid in his conquests. Soon, no one would stand in his way. His men had been toiling in shifts to ensure that the project would remain active 24 hours a day. The only thing that slowed them was the delay of research conducted by the top students of all academies and universities within Nyliam. These teams were not delinquent by any means but each school was given a specific task, only a part of the puzzle, to deal with. No one knew what they were working on or what it would be used for.

"The carriage has arrived, Aramus. Shall we depart for Militus?"

"By all means, Gregorynn. We will leave immediately. What time do you suppose we shall arrive?"

"I would suppose in about 5 days."

"That will give me all the more time to ponder." Aramus lips pulled back to reveal his polished ivory teeth in the grandest of his smiles as he and Gregorynn exited his personal chambers. His army was in position in every major Lunari city, he had annexed all of their soil in the name of the Empire, and now, he was on his way to oversee the conquering of further nations. He did, in fact, have much to ponder.

__________________

Unlike my fool of a father, I don't just talk of ambition... I realize it.

Posted by Jack Gildern on 04-09-2002 01:05 PM:

Salt and sea could stop the wind.......

Jack awoke to the sound of soft rainfall on the fourth day of his journey. The drops of water were washing over his face and he jumped slightly as he realized that the cockpit was filling with water.

"Shit........" He quickly set to work, creating a makeshift cover for the cockpit, using a small tarp to cover him. Then he busied himself with shovelling out the water and cursed vehemently as he had to throw away his catch of fish to use the bucket.

After a few minutes of work, the cockpit was dry. Jack worked quickly and re-filled the water tanks, using a crank to open the bottom of the plane. When it filled full, he closed it and replenished the supply of special Firepowder in the engine.

After two hours worth of work, he had re-tuned his plane up and hit the ignition. The Aircraft sputtered and Jack, quickly learning the problems of his machine, slammed his fist on the dashboard. The machine lurched and began to speed up, finally pulling free of the planet's gravity.

Jack cheered, the exhilaration of flight again consuming him. He lit a cigar and began to smoke it as the machine covered the last portion of his travelling.

************************************************

It was mid-day when the Aircraft began to sputter and descend. Jack checked his dashboard and engines, searching for the reason to the machine's failure. He spun a string of insults as he noticed that there were salt deposits on the pistons and gears.

Taking hold of the controls, he turned off the engines and flew the contraption on the currents of the wind. It was descending fast and he would have to land it on the rocky slopes of the mountain. Jack roared as he dodged past the peaks of the mountain range, desperately searching for a place to land.

Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed a flat grassy plane. Jack swerved in that direction and came down hard, the wheels tearing off and the legs of the machine tearing deep rivulets in the earth. Jack whipped foward and cursed as he hit his head on the dashboard, then passed out.

************************************************

Carlanus Silverfinger watched in awe as the flying machine roared past, floating uneasily upon the wind. It was malfunctioning, of course. He could see that. But the pilot had chosen to fly it without use of the engine.

"Smart......very smart. It was going to overheat..............."

Carlanus watched as the machine swerved and slammed into the grassy plain not far from his home. He began to walk in that direction, curious to see the intricate workings of this contraption and to help the pilot, if necessary.

************************************************

Virgil Andfalath awoke in his tent and stretched, hearing the echoing of some loud creature or otherwise in the distance. He had never taken this path through the mountains before, but he wanted to avoid Balanum watch, so he had cut through. Virgil stood and stepped outside the tent, laughing as he stepped on the cool, wet stone barefoot.

In the distance, smoke was issuing from a a flying......thing. The noise apparently seemed to come from that source. He watched in wonder as the thing cut quickly downwards and disappeared beyond a rocky ridge. The sounds of something mechanical crashing followed seconds later.

Virgil, sensing something hidden to him, dressed quickly, shouldered his lute, and supplies, and ran in the direction of the fallen machine.

__________________
"If it's mechanical, it's my field of expertise. And if it flies, you're looking at the best damn pilot you'll ever see."

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-09-2002 02:06 PM:

the rescue

Kai gasped and slapped her hand over her mouth to keep herself from making a noise. Clenching her eyes shut to sqeeze the tears away she opened them and examined her possible ways of rescue.

Seeing nothing, she continued down the path, that wound about the house in a wiggly fasion. She slipped beneath the line of sight of the guards as she made her way to the servant's entrance.

This will have to work...I'll have to steal some clothes...

Slipping through the small door and almost ran into a serving man. Gasping she looked at him, he looking at her as well.

"Your not supposed to be here ma'am."

"Uh...I work here...came late."

"No you don't. I don't reconize you. An i'm the head servant."

"Er...I was hired 10 minutes ago. And I think its time for you to go sleepy sleep."

"Wha-"

His explamation was cut short suddenly as she did a karate chop to a pressure point, knocking him unconsious. She stripped him of his clothes and put them on, trying to make herself look as much like a servant as she could.

Walking now with a tray of food she made her way upstairs, putting her ear to every door to try and hear Arann and Telesor.

"You fool. What do you MEAN Joranim was knocked unconcious?!"

"He's just laying near the exit, stripped to his shorts!"

"There must be a thief about."

Crap! Why didn't I dispose of the friggin' body!?

Ducking behind a statue in the halls she stripped the servant's clothes off, knowing that she was going to be spotted with them on. Searching wildly she saw a concubine walk out of her room, beautifully dressed, make her way to the bathroom across the hall.

Biting her lip she glided over to the room and walked in, locking the door behind her.

Inside was a huge room, tapestries lining the gorgeous oaken walls.

In the nearest wardrobe, the door cracked open a bit, were dresses of every color.

I hope its my size...

Opening the door all the way she pulled the nearest dress out. It was a long, sweeping deep green, ornately decorated with gold thread and silver chains. Jewels lined the cuffs.

Ouch...Spendy...

Throwing it on and fixing her hair a bit she glided out of the room through the back door. Finding herself in the hall she searched again for the door she desired.

Biting her lip she tossed her head and raised her chin, walking with gracefull steps to look as much like a trained concubine as she could.

Knocking on the door to Telenor's room, she had the possibility of being killed right on the spot...

Posted by Adaiva Kilsan on 04-09-2002 02:21 PM:

The canyon...and perhaps, the meeting

Adaiva said no more to Sidd, but kept walking, facing forward, her face full of anger and irritation.

Ahead of her the sun was dipping low, the night was coming.

"We should make camp before the sun completely sets."

Sidd raised his head from his journal, not writing as fast and nodded, his eyes searching the landscape. His chocolate eyes meeting up with a wind blown tree, bare of any leaves.

"Over there. Its the best shelter out here."

"Yeah ok, you set up camp. I need to find something to make a fire."

"I have a flint stone."

"No not that. There is a mix that can make fire. Although the flint may come in handy later."

"Um alright."

The two split up, Adaiva heading east off the trail while Sidd made his way to the tree. As she made her way, skimming the ground with her hands, she seemed to disappear beneath the blades of grass. He pulled out the flint and ignored her instructions, striking it to begin a flame.

By the time Adaiva came back, the fire was well on its way to becoming a bonfire.

"I thought I told you NOT to start a fire you twerp!"

"You'dve taken too long. I'm not patient enough."

Adaiva raised her hand to strike him but sidd grabbed it before she could bring it down upon his face.

"I wouldn't, if I were you."

With that he let her go and pointed to his rapier. With a snort, Adaiva sat down and pulled her cloak about her shoulders. The coming of night was bringing out the hate in her again.

As the moon rose and the sun fell, Adaiva fell asleep, Sidd looking down at her.

What a wierd person...

With that, the night began, and the dangers that come with it were lurking in the shadows, stalking them amongst the grasses...

__________________
Solus dilectio optime supero comtemno...
(only love conquers hate)

"Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift"
-Eleanor Roosevelt

Posted by Sayomara on 04-09-2002 02:27 PM:

the heart of the Problem, and the way to a soltion

After getting the stone Sayomara moved quickly to avoid losing his new prize. After what seemed like a few days, Sayomara came out of the woods to see that world was pitch black with only a sliver of a crescent moon in the background. All around Sayomara could hear the shadow spawn moving in the lake splashing and make evil noises. Sayomara looked over the lake and something caught his eye in the pale moonlight. I was the Black tower and for a moment, Sayomara stared at it with contempt. “This has to be the reason for my feeling that tower is full of Evil, it has been that way for almost 50 years and I think that it about time some take it down.” Then Sayomara turned towards the tower and put his fist around the stone, and for a second he looked as if was going to take off and attack the tower himself. But Sayomara knew better and he turned away and took flight. “This is not I fight I can win on my own I am going to have to go and find help if I have there is any hope of fixing his problem.” Then he turned towards Balanum, “I have a favor to ask of a old friends.” He thought to himself. “I think Balanum would be the best place to start.”

As he flew Sayomara could see the Shadow spawn flying in the distance, but they were getting farther away and seemed to be heading south. As the night pasted the moon rose higher in the sky, and more of the world came into view. Letting Sayomara to move more quickly, but Sayomara felt different tonight he seemed felt like be could fly thought the air with out hardly any effort at all. Now this was partly because of the high humidity which always made Sayomara life far easier, but also he could feel his power increasing since he had first touched the stone, and Sayomara felt that his it was what made the art of fly so much easier.

It was after sunrise when Sayomara came to the mountains of southern Balanum. “This will do for now.” He thought, “I don’t completely understand what this stone is doing to me, so best to rest and travel again after nightfall.” Then Sayomara found a small grove of trees at the foot of one the mountains. “I think during daylight I will be safe here, but best not to sleep to long. Who know what surprises are waiting out there when the world is as crazy as it is now.” And with that, Sayomara pushed his blue hat over his face and leaned up against a tree, and fell asleep.

Cue: Hey Jack are you up for a bit of a chance meeting?

__________________
I have seen much in my day, but nothing as bad as this.

Posted by Avatar Worldmaker on 04-09-2002 03:38 PM:

Alex awoke in the morning to find her gone, as he expected she would do. He rolled over in their bed and breathed in her scent, left on her pillow from the night before. Slowly, he rose from the bed, draping the sheet over his body, and walked to the mirror. A large red impression of Orocia's lips stood out under the silver Meshai upon his cheek, and he smiled briefly as he took the water from the washbasin and scrubbed his face clean. He couldn't have Zander and Tiffarah seeing that, he thought to himself. He dressed slowly, allowing his shirt and jacket to both hang open, his shirt untucked, placing the Redeemer in its new lanyard, and slinging the blue crystal blade across his back.

As he entered the common room, his face twisted momentairly as he saw Tiffarah and Zander sitting together at one of the tables, eating a breakfast of mutton stew and fried eggs. He calmed himself, taking reassurance from Orocia's words and actions the night before that she would, in time return. For now, all that he had was that hope. No it was more than hope, it was a sense of knowing, but he had nothing but his feelings to confirm his belief. He sat next to Zander easily, and he looked at his companion as he spoke.

"Feeling a little lazy today are we? We've been up for almost three hours. Where's Orocia? still sleeping?" Zander laughed a bit, "I guess even tigers need sleep, no?"

Alex nodded slowly, taking in the words before speaking, but before he could speak, Tiffarah nad already brought her hands to her mouth, knowing the general idea of whar Alex was about to say, "Zander, she's gone. She left in the night. She has to deal with some things from her past that are haunting her even now. I know not why, but I am sure that it is better that I did not go with her,"

Zander shook his head slowly, and Tiffarah looked towards him as he did. The conversation shifted from the subject, thanks to Zander's tongue, but after he had finished his meal, Alex simply rose from his seat and walked towards the stairs.

"I'll be in my room. Come get me when we are to leave. I'll come with you as far as Balanum. From there I do not know where I shall go,"

As he walked up the stairs, he gave the Holy Knight's salute to the air ahead of him, and a whisper escaped his lips, "Good luck, my love... Come back to me whole, Orocia.... I love you.."

__________________
We all want to change the world...

Posted by Volsung on 04-09-2002 03:54 PM:

problems at see

OCC: From the prospective of Veritas Vesper

IC:Since leaving port almost three weeks ago Veritas and John has had been taking there time sailing close to the cost. Most of the time John was flying reconnaissance over the Spine of Nyliam while Veritas stayed with the ship to answer any questions if they should run into any Nyliam ships.

In the few weeks they had found a few storehouses, and watch towers. Nothing that would might be helpful to Gania in the long run. About the only thing that might be helpful to a navy would be the Niven river witch went strait up to Nyliam Proper and to there main shipyards.

Then about a day pasted the mouth of the river The Secunda Falia and her crew ran into a large storm. Lucky both Veritas and John were on the ship at the time. Since there near the shore they had to try to hold to ship in place to keep it from hitting any of the rocks, but this meant that neither Veritas nor John could protect the ship from being hit by lighting.

During the course of the storm, the Secunda Falia was hit three times one of which punched a fairly large hole in the haul of the ship. The crew rushed to make repairs and while they did that John when to the edge of the ship and made air bubble around the hole to keep the water out. While the Veritas did her best to keep the ship still on her, own. After about an hour of heavy work from the crew and the two mages the Ship was fixed and out of immediate danger. “Give me a report office,” said Veritas to one of her men who had working on the hole in haul.”

“Well Sir I are going to have to go into port soon, we fixed the hole but we had to take wood from other part of the ship to do it. Not mention a lot of our sail were destroyed. Now, we do have replacements, but if we should run into anther storm we just be out of luck.”

Veritas stirred for moment thinking then she got and made announcement to the Crew, “All hear this, we are turning around and heading up that river we passed a yesterday. We will be going to Nyliam Proper to get repairs, and to restock.” Then she got a few offices together and gave each a job some were to watch the patch in the Hauls until they got to port while other were given the job of keeping a eye on the crew while they were in port. Then Veritas ordered the ship to turn around and the started there slow limp into the heart of Nyliam.

__________________

"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-09-2002 04:37 PM:

Reed

Reed wandered around some of the alleys for a short while just to think. Then he wandered out into the densely populated streets while watching everyone's movements,sifting through the people until he comes upon a stand. He simply walks by, but when he is out of sight range he looked into his pack, which is now full of fruit. He snickered at the merchant's ignorance before he selected a pear and taking a bite, wiping away the juice with a small piece of cloth.

He watched everyone, still biting into the pear and wiping away the juice with the handkerchief, then tossed it aside. Afterwards he began sifting through the population. He looked back for a second and then when he turned his head back to the street in front of him, he stopped.

He looked up at the woman in front of him and blinks slightly...

"Hmm, glad to see there is something worth looking at in this city." He said, smiling slightly.

But shortly after this he was gone, walking down a deserted back alley. As he walked he pulled out two apples and handed them to a hungry-looking man that is sitting against the wall and walked on through the alley.

A few moments later he slipped into a building that was deserted, finded a room and cleaned the dust from a table, sitting down to think still, mostly about the woman he saw passing by.

He walked out of the deserted building and back into the streets, sighing contently because he already has enough food. Then he wandered by a weaponsmith, swiping a nice 8" dagger very quickly and tucked it in his sash, making it look like it is supposed to be there and then ventures down the streets again...

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-09-2002 05:18 PM:

Revenge

Reed walked through the town, then he found a sign that pleased him greatly: Noit

He snickered evilly and weaved through the people, making his way to the port where a large ship was docked, he glared at it while moving closer. When he was at the edge of the port he grabbed his spear and leaped in the water, followed by shouts:

"What d'ya think ya are doing!?"

"Reed?"

"Me boat!"

He swimmed under the the boat, looked up at the underside of it and then thrusted his spear in quickly, turning the spear in it and then moving to another location, doing the same. Occasionally he went up for air and then dived under again. He stopped and leaped out of the water, swiping his spear so that the pirates back off and then turns, watching the vessel sink slowly. He looked at the large name on the back of his uncle's ship: Waterlilly

When the ship has fully disappeared from sight he turned back to the pirates, muttering "Get away from me."

The pirates drew thier cutlasses and look back at where he was, but he gone...

Reed snickers loudly, right behind them and bashed one of them in the back of one of thier heads, laying him flat. Then he swiped at the other and hits in the stomach, then pushes it through until he is sure that he is dead. Pulling it out he cleaned it off and looked at the remaining pirate that was not on the ship... his uncle...

"W-w-what are you going to do wi--"

Before the pirate had finished the sentence Reed had smashed the capped end of his spear across his uncle's face and speared him through.

Reed glares down at him and remarks harshly "That is what you get when you abuse someone, never let them see daylight for years, and never let them off a ship that they hate! You brought this on youself, dear uncle."

He leaps onto a ship, hitching a ride...

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Bara Chinder on 04-09-2002 05:48 PM:

Meeting with the Morrigan.

Bara and Conchuir had rode for hours when they caught sight of a large camp. There were carriges large tents and small tents and in the middle a huge marquee with smoke trailing out of a hole in the roof.

The two stayed the horses and waited for inspiration as to how to approach the settlement. After a while one of cannas tribe rode up. He hailed them as he approached.

"Hai! I come carrying news from Canna for the morrigan. She said to enter with ye if I come across ye." said the servant Enda.

"Thats a good thing. We could not just ride up and into her tent." replied Conchuir.

"Then we will go in together." With that they trotted up to the tents. Bara kept his hood up as he rode in.

After a brief discussion with the gaurds one of the braves of the morrigans clan was sent for. When he arrived the riders saw a Tall muscular sleebhfir with tattoos from his face down to his shoulders and all the way down his arms. He was nearly completly dressed in furs of some sort, and carrying a huge spear.

"Ya come to see the morrigan? What is yar news? If ya cannot tell me the type then ya cannot tell her."

Conchuir did the talking. "We come with news of the shadowspawn and of the muster" The brave raised an eyebrow.
Enda Interceded. "I come to tell her of Cannas decision to join these brave men."

This seemed to soften the brave. "The lady joins? Then I will let ya in. Wait by the firestand. I will tell the morrigan," he said.

After a while they were bid in.

The Morrigan sat at a table on large coushons. She was an almost wonderous sight. She was an absolutly huge woman. She was taller than Bara and about as broad as two of him. She looked as if 20 stone was a childhood memory. Behind her gargantuan stature she had a rough but wise face. She was clad in a robe of cotton and fur. By her side was a long double headed axe. She spoke with a loud Imposing voice.

"What do ye have to say of the spawn?" She demanded.

"We have fought them and they come for only destruction. As long as they ride in farai no nomad is safe be the sleebhfir or any other." Replied Conchuir.

Bara struck up on cue. " This is an enemy that we cannot hope to beat. We must unite the tribes and drive them from the lands of all the tribes. They are strong and fast. faster than any of ours." On of the braves sneered at this. Bara continued."They dont injure the same as humans and they are tough. And they are getting stronger."

"We have seen them fly," replied the morrigan. "We have fought them. We have survived only lost a few fighters. Why must come together?"

"Because more are coming" replied Conchuir. "And when they come at once we will not stop them, They already have over run Endaroth. We will be destroyed when they come as one. Unless we are one aswell."

"Such a thing has not been seen in any life that lives now. How can we be sure it will work?" She persisted with negatives.

"Because the capallan and your relations in cannas clans agreed. And we hope that mine will join to. I am laimh dearag and we will listen to reason." Pangs of lonliness and sorrrow wracked Baras soul at this statement, he had not been home for a long time, and was sure of a negative welcome. "At least I hope." he added.

Enda struck up. "Canna says that she sends faith in these men. They fought strongly with us and speak well. Our clan is sworn to help them.

The morrigan sat still for a while. Then beckoned for her two sons. The most respected braves in her clans. The conversed for a short while out of hearing. At length she stood.

"Laimh Dearag. Take back your hood. Let mee see ya." She demanded.

Hesitantly he took back the cowl. The crois bui got a slight snarl from one brave and a murmer from several others. The morrigan seemed indiffrent. "A crois bui? Not to be trusted some say. But a cruel punishment I say. What did you do?"

"I do not say" replied Bara, flatly.

To this a brave burst out "ANSWER THE MORRIGAN!"

"SILENCE WHEN I TALK!" Blasted the woman at the clansman. "Now if I am to trust ya I will know why your tribe outcasts you. why?" Persisted the morrigan.

Bara was tearing up inside. Anger welled near out of his control. He concentrated in toughts of the creator. Focused entirly on the prayers he'd learned in the mission in Parvini. A long few miniutes Passed.

"I brought shame and disgrace on my father and failed my brother. That is all I will say." He slowly laboured the words out and the was a pause eventually shattered by the voice of Conchuir.

"Listen I am Conchuir this is Bara and We come not for interrogation but to help all of Farai. You can either help us and your homes and families or you can die when the spawn come. Which is it?"

The Morrigan stood again axe in hand. She looked livid but soon after her huge face softened.
"wat ever this Inter-og-shun is. I Say this. The threat is great and your Speaking is for good. You have the praise of my friend Canna and you now have mine. All of the sleebhfir will come to battle. I may lead battle myself."

"I am glad. We ask shelter Till the morning when we will set off north" Conchuir glanced to his right at Bara who seemed in low spirits now.

"Welcome. And my son aodhna will go with you on themorn. he is a strong fighter and he will bring back word to me of when to bring the army."

With this she called for food and drink for her new guests.

The messengers had passed her tests.

__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.

Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-09-2002 05:50 PM:

The Discovery

After knocking on his door, Kai fixed her hair and tried to keep her fear from showing.

Suddenly the door was thrust inward, showing the muscular image of Arann, his form blocking the light from within the room. Curtsying, she hid her face, looking at the floor.

"I am looking for master Telenor."

"Hey Telenor, got a lady visitor!"

"Eh?"

Telenor bustled from the back part of the room and shoved Arann aside. Kai lifted her head and smiled as innocently as she could. Its hard being a girl.

"Mast Telenor. I'm Akirah Bushei."

"Akirah? What need are you to me?"

"I am-"

Thankfully she was cut off by the hideous moaning of Leer, just waking up from his unconscious state. Stifling a yelp she peered around Telenor to take a look, shock filling her face. Leer was tied loosely in the chair, slumped over. His clothes her ripped and tattered, stained with blood. Suddenly her view was cut off by the bulky form of Telenor.

"Lady Akirah, I have no need for a concubine, no matter how pretty. I must ask you to leave."

Thinking fast she piped up, noticing a scarf lying in a heap in a corner.

"Oh! My scarf!"

Bustling past Telenor she trotted over to her scarf, giving Leer a sideways glance. He lifted his eyes and they brightened, but he hid them for safety's sake.

"Uh..."

"Oh I thought I lost this!"

Grinning as womanly as she could, she clutched the lacy scarf like a precious jewel. She's be the laughing stock of everyone if she was to do this again. She hated being dressed in this corsett and tight fitting clothes.

"That isn't yours lady Akirah...That would be Leah's."

"Leah? Oh...I could swear it was mine! Pardon me, I'll bring it to her."

"I don't believe I've seen you before anyway. Just drop the scarf and scram missy."

"Scram? How dare you talk this way to a lady!"

She made her first mistake. She half-ran over to Telenor and slapped him across his face. Suddenly she felt the hand of Arann grab her wrist and wrench it behind her.

"Kaileigh. So glad you could make it."

"Kaileigh? Pardon...Who's that?"

"Shuttup."

Arann practically hurled Kai across the room, having her collide with the dressor. Grunting she held her head and torn away the dress, showing her black clothing beneath them. She whipped out a throwing knife and as if a blurr, hurled it at Arann. Unfortunatly he knew her too well and was trained far to long to let this go unnoticed. He simply stepped behind Telenor, who gave out a final yelp of fear, just before he dropped dead; a knife protruding from his forhead.

"Thanks Kai. I was planning to get rid of him long ago. Hmm...I guess you can join your friend Leer."

Biting her lip she leaped off the ground, her legs splayed, rapier in hand. Her eyes burned with hate as she faced him. He walked calmly over to the bed where he lifted his cutlass and drew it.

"Now, lady Kai, your luck shall deminish."

"Over my dead body fool."

chuckling he took that too literally. He faked a lunge and let her waste an attack. With that he lunged again and brought his blade to her waist. Her reflexes took care of this and blocked his attack...

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-09-2002 06:36 PM:

The fight...and the death

The fight was to be long and deadly, blade to blade, blood to sweat.

"Kai...your reflexes are slowing!"

"As are yours you filthy rat!"

"Ooo..I'm threatened by your words!" replied Arann, his voiced dripping with sarcasm.

As if he could sense her every move, he blocked it with the years of practice.

Lunging forward, he would knock the blade aside, forcing Kai to hit the floor and roll, in order to block his attack. From the distance Leer watched this fight, blood flowing freely from his mouth. Blinking away the tears, blood and sweat from his eyes he watched his friend take attack after attack.

she's not going to make it...

Grimacing he fought his weak hands from the binds. Though loose, his strength was sapped. Gone. But seeing his friend weaken from blow after blow made him gain his strength.

I'm coming Kai!

Wrestling his hands free he worked silently on his ankles. With the binds free he searched the room for a weapon.

Kai wrestled Arann's blade, grunting and heaving at the force of the attacks.

He's too strong!

Suddenly her eye caught a slow movement. Glancing towards it she saw Leer.

Leer!

She suddenly whipped out a dagger and tried to make it look like she was going to stab him with it but instead let it be thrown towards Leer.

"Foolish girl!"

"Your the fool Arann!"

She lunged once more as her strength faded to a dangerous level. Arann lunged forward and knocked her down. He readjusted his grip on his cutlass, which cost him too much time.

Leer lunged forward on his last wind and plunged the blade into his back. He felt the warm liquid pour freely onto his hand as she drew it back. Now he was getting his strength from anger. Plunging the dagger into the back of the shocked Arann, he collapsed, his strength gone.

"LEER!"

Kai lifted herself from the ground, only to be knocked down again by the falling corpse of Arann. Throwing him off of her she crawled towards Leer.

"Leer! Oh my word! You killed him! You killed Arann!"

Unfortunatly Leer was far too weak to reply. His eyes fluttered a bit then closed. Kai clasped her hand in his and tightened her grip. Leer tried to do the same, his squeeze just barely felt. His eyes opened a bit and he smiled weakly.

"Kai...you did well..."

His voice trailed off as his eyes closed, never to see the light of day again, or the moon, the stars...His heart stopped.

Leer was dead.

Kai cried softly for a while but felt the hate rise steadily in her heart.

Leer...someone will pay for this.

Lifting herself off the floor slowly she wiped her blade on Arann's clothing and sheathed it. A tear blurred her vision as she stood looking at the beat up form of Leer, lying upon the floor.

Bending down, she lifted his still corpse from the floor and walked out the door, her face melancholy as she walked slowly down the halls, the staff looking at her with fear and sadness on their solemn faces, some rushing into Telenor's room, only to scream at the two dead bodies and the blood upon the carpet.

Finally she reached the outside, the guards looking at her, their blades drawn. She ignored them as she made her way to the forest beyond.

Digging a shallow grave she placed Leer's bloody body within the pit and covered him over.

Oh Leer...If only you knew I liked you more than a friend...

Bitterness consumed her as she placed a cheap tombstone, his named etched into the stone.

Standing up she walked off Telenor's property, making her way to Ioty. Is was going to be a long trip alone...

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-09-2002 06:41 PM:

Cross-country traveling

Reed slowly walked around on deck, the ship coming around an abandoned port, then jumped in the water, swimming to the shore and leaping out of the water. He walks to the entrance of the ruined city and walks out, carrying a full supply of food for the trip. He yawned lightly and set off along the paths that are well-known to him, but sometimes ignored by other travelers. Taking an apple out and munching on it as he walked along, setting off for Ioty, traveling light

As night fell he came upon the bridge across Thole Canyon, stopping in the middle and dropping an apple core into the depths that seem endless in the night. He shrugs and continues walking, passing by a fire and looking at the two travelers, not bothering to do anything to them.

Reed slowly came upon Bargra at daybreak, walking to the inn and tossing the owner a few silvers and takes his key. As he walked up the stairs he watches a few people walk down, then walks on. He reached his room and inserted the key and turned the knob gingerly, pushing aside the door and wandering in. He yawned and closed the door, sitting on the bed and then laying back, falling asleep...

Around noon he awakens and adjusted his clothes, opening the door and walking out. He leaves the inn in Bargra and sets out for Ioty again, still traveling light.

Around 5:00 he stopped, coming upon a main path from his straight path from Sungan. He looked around and then began following it.

Around midnight he entered the city of Ioty. He wandered around for a while and then came upon an inn called the "Pheonix Rising" and wandered in, looking at everyone before throwing a couple of silvers on the table for a room. He enters his room and sits on the bed, then lays back and slowly fell asleep...

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Keiru Obsidian on 04-09-2002 08:29 PM:

OOC: Just so everyone knows Avatar Woldmaker has given me permission for what I am about to write.

As Elyas:

IC:

The cool evening air stirred gently through the trees of the Soulwood Forest. Night birds called lightly in the trees, and animals scampered about. The noises of the forest were in full on this night. Deep within the forest was a small cabin. The cabin was made out of large ironwood trees and thatched with clay and ferns. It was the cabin of a woodsman. It was the cabin of Hrodgar Stoneknuckle, his wife Kilana, and his son Elyas.

But on this evening only Kilana was inside the cabin. Both Hrodgar and Elyas were spending this night out in the forest; along with Hrodgar’s bear companion Strovgar. This night was a very special night for Elyas. At midnight Elyas would turn 18. Tonight he would be an adult.

About a mile away from the cabin was a small clearing. In the center was a low burning fire, its smoke giving a faint sweet smell as it rose to the heavens. Seated across from each other Hrodgar and Elyas stared deep into the flames. The forest around them seemed to buzz with anticipation. Lounging at Hrodgar’s side was a huge bear named Strovgar, after Hrodgar’s father. In fact the spirit of Strovgar was the spirit of his long dead father.

So there they sat staring deep into the flickering fire. Finally the relative silence was broken. “So you will teach the ways of magic now father?” Elyas asked softly. In all appearances Elyas looked calm and collected, but inside he was burning with energy and excitement. He had asked many times before to be taught the ways of magic, but always his father Hrodgar would say ‘You must wait for your 18th birthday. Then you will learn.’

Hrodgar stared into the fire without answering his son. Hrodgar was old. He was well 70 years old. His hair had long since changed from black to stark white, but Hrodgar’s 7-foot tall frame was as strong as he had ever been. His mind was also as clear. Finally he pulled his gaze from the flames and looked at his son.

Elyas stood more than a head taller than Hrodgar, and much stronger. His powerful frame was all rippling muscles. His hair was the dark shade of the ironwood bark. He had no facial hair, but now that his 18th birthday was at hand, he could grow what he wished.

“No son, I will not teach you the ways of magic.”

Elyas balked in surprise. “What do you mean you won’t teach me? You said on my 18th birthday you would teach me!”

Hrodgar let out a low laugh. The sound seemed like distant thunder. At this Strovgar sat up on his haunches. “Yes son, I said I would teach you, but I never said I would teach you magic.” He let out another low laugh.

If Elyas was surprised before he was flabbergasted now. “That is not fair. You said you would teach me. You just played around with the semantics of your answer. You could have just said you would not teach me magic. So what will you teach me then, that I should show my father a lesson for getting his only son’s hope up and then shooting them down like a duck from the air?”

Hrodgar waited until Elyas’s tirade was finished, then he let out a true belly laugh. “What is so funny?” Elyas demanded.

“Oh son, sometimes you are too dense for your own good. No I am not going to teach you magic…ever.” Suddenly all humor was gone from Hrodgar’s voice. “Instead I will teach you something much more important.”

All anger flew from Elyas at hearing the tone his father’s voice now carried. “What is it you shall teach me then father?”

Hrodgar took a deep breath. “In the ancient days there was no magic. Not like we know it today. No, but there was something more primal. Before there was magic, before there was cities, before there were even countries, there were only clans. There were countless clans. Each clan worshiped something. Some worshiped plants, some animals, some worshiped elements. We are of the Bear Clan. For years our clan has worshiped the Creator’s greatest animal, the bear. Over the years though much was lost of the old ways. With the coming of Terra magic the old ways drifted and disappeared from everyday life, but they did not disappear from our blood.

Now we come to today. The old ways are all but gone, even within the clans’ bloodlines. But you have the blood of the bear in you. The strongest of all blood pulses within your very being. Within you lay the old ways. The old magic.”

“I don’t understand father. What is the old magic?”

Just then Elyas’s skilled ears caught the sound of many large animals moving towards the clearing. In an instant Elyas was on his feet ready to fight, but Hrodgar said, “Be seated son. It is only your ancestors come to greet the old blood.” As he said this the first of what came to be many bears entered the clearing. Bears of all colors, shapes, and sizes were converging on the small clearing. Each bear sat down on its haunches and looked at the fire.

Elyas sat down slowly. “How have all these bears come to be here?”

“They are your ancestors. Listen to your blood Elyas. Can’t you feel the call of the blood? As those who came before you have died, so have come the bears you see around you. Their spirits live on in the thing they worship. That is how all the old clans have survived.”

“But what is the old magic?”

“It is said that before Terra came the clans could take the form of their totem. The Elk clan could take the form of the swift elk, the wolf clan could take form of the vicious wolf, and the bear clan could take the form of the strong bear.”

“So what does this have to do with me?”

“Your blood carries the old blood with great strength. You have the ability to tap the old magic. You can assume the form of the bear.”

“But how?”

“Just listen to our blood. Your ancestors have come to help you,” he said motioning to the many bears sitting around the fire.

Elyas closed his eyes. He turned his thought inward, like his father had taught him. He felt his breathing slow. Slowly he reached a meditative state that he had been to countess times before. All was empty, but suddenly Elyas found him self in a primordial forest; in a very large clearing. All around him stood large men wearing the skins of bears as clothing. They were of many shapes and sizes. Many looked like his father in stature. Theirs eyes held a distinct sparkle of ageless knowledge. Instinctively he knew these men were his ancestors.

Elyas watched as one by one the men changed into bears. Their bodies elongating and grew in size. Fur grew where there was none. Human eyes turned into those of the bear. Large sharp teeth replaced normal teeth. He soon found himself surrounded by great bears. Then one by one they changed back to human form and he was soon amidst the men that were his ancestors.

Elyas was amazed. His mind was churning with a thousand questions. He tried to speak, but found he could not. So instead he again turned his mind inwards. For a few moments he could sense nothing, then something flashed in his mind, a vision of an immense bear with dark brown fur, standing on its hind legs. It towered above all other animals

Suddenly Elyas felt the blood in his veins begin to pulse. His arms began to grow and shift, as did his legs and every other part of his body. Bones popped and fur burst through his skin. Pain blossomed in his entire body and as he finished changing he stood up on two mighty bear legs and let out a howl to the sky until the pain went away. He now was covered in a deep brown fur. His huge frame was much larger than any bear that had ever lived.

When the pain was completely gone the process went in reverse. Pain also was present, but not as bad. Finally he was back in his human body. All round him the men stood and smiled. Some nodded their heads in assertion. Others cheered. Elyas closed his eyes.

When he opened them again he sat in the clearing near his home. All the bears were come save Strovgar. Hrodgar stood smiling next to his son.

“The old blood lives on, but there are still things you must learn. There are restrictions, and drawbacks. But I will tell you those later. Now you must rest. You have had a long night.”

Only then did Elyas realize the sun was rising. “I am not tired. Please tell me what more I need to know.”

“No son. A man knows when he should rest, and you are a man now.”

Elyas smiled. He was a man now. Slowly he slipped into a deep sleep.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

About midday Elyas awoke to find his father had felled a large stag, which was now roasting over the fire. The smell of the cooking meat stirred something much deeper in his mind. It seemed as if there was some strange connection between him and the stag. He shook off the thought and got to his feet.

He stretched his massive limbs and cracked his back loudly. Just then his father and Strovgar came back into the clearing. His father carried a very large bundle under his arm. He also carried a stone rune dangling form a leather strap. He saw that the rune was that of the bear.

That’s when he remembered what had happened the night before. He had learned of the power that was in his veins. The old blood. He could assume the form of the bear. His mind raced through the vents of the evening and Elyas could still not believe what had happened.

“Ah, so the cub awakens,” Hrodgar, said with a laugh. “I hope this day finds you well son.”

“Last night. Was it real? Can I really change my body to that of the bear? Does the old blood run through my veins?”

Hrodgar looked at his son for a moment. “Indeed my son. You have the old magic within you and now you must learn the rules. But first we will eat”

So the two sat in silence as they feasted on the stag. When they were finished Elyas was about to ask his father about the rules he spoke of, but before he could even open his mouth Hrodgar spoke up, “Patience son.”

“First off yes, you are able to assume the form of our clan’s totem. The bear. At will you can change your form, but before you do you must learn the rules. You are now a being of two worlds. First you are a man and must live as a man. You are also a bear and must live as a bear. You must find a point of balance between the two.

“As a bear you will have all the strengths of a bear. Your smell will be better, you will be stronger, if that’s possible,” he added with a laugh. “You will also be more connected to the natural world around you. You will understand the way hunter and hunted need each other. Your instincts will be sharper than they have ever been before. But there are drawbacks to the bear form.

“While in the form of the bear your thought will be much closer to that of a bear. You will be able to think as a man, but not as well. A bear just does not have the same thoughts as a man. Your mind will think with the manner of the bear. This can be very dangerous. There are stories of your ancestors tell speak of men in bear form losing control and destroying villages in their animal rage. I know you think you are strong willed, but the bear is just as strong.

“Also you must always be aware of the amount of time you spend in the body of the bear. Since you a creature of two worlds now you must live in both equally. If you spend too long in the bear form it will get harder and harder to return to the form of the bear, and this goes the same for spending too long as a man. There are also stories of men not being able to take the bear form, and of men becoming bears completely. This is because they spend too much time in either form.

“You must find your own balance between the two. Though for the first weeks you should spend half your day as a man and half as a bear. This will let you get used to the balance. Form then on you will be able to tell if you have spent too long in a form. Do you understand?”

Through this Elyas listened intently and committed each word to memory. With the power comes a responsibility, he thought to himself. “Yes father. I understand.”

“Good. There is another thing.” He lifted up the stone rune hanging on the leather strap. “This is a rune of power that will be very beneficial to you. When changing from man to bear your belongings will not make the transition. I mean think about it. You clothes, though big, would never fit a bear. They would be ripped to shreds. And all your belongings would fall to the ground.

“With this necklace you will be able to shift without the fear of ruining your clothes or losing your belongings. This rune will bind any item that is placed upon your body when you shift. Though if you have something in you hand, it will not shift. It must be connected to your body. Understand?”

Elyas nodded.

“Good. And now for the final thing.” He turned and lifted up the large bundle. “This has been passed from father to son for countless generations. It was once carried by the very first of our kind that could shift.”

Hrodgar unwrapped the bundle to reveal a huge maul. It was intricately carved with runes of the Bear Clan. With it was a series of leather straps. “This is Ursalmange, the hammer of the bear. It is a powerful weapon that is bestowed upon the Bear Clan chief. You, being the only one of our clan with the old blood are chief. It can be strapped to your back using this tangle of leather. This will allow you to shift with it on you back and not have to worry about losing it.”

Elyas now stared at the great maul with awe. It was as if the past had been hurled into the present with the force of lightning.

“Thank you father. I do not know how to thank you enough.”

“There is no need my son. I have waited a long time to give you this. You are deserving of this. Your ancestors have chosen you. And so do I.”

Elyas swallowed Hrodgar in a hug. Hrodgar grunted at his son’s great strength. “Now son, it is time for you to go off and see the world. Learn what is out there and become the man you were meant to be. But remember spend the first few weeks here in the forest becoming familiar with your powers. Strovgar can help guide you.” He motioned to the bear lying near the fire.

“I will father. I won’t let you down.”

“I know.” With that Hrodgar turned and walked into forest in the direction of his cabin.

Elyas fitted the leather straps to his body and hafted the great maul. It felt natural in his hands. He swung it a couple of time and then placed it in the straps on his back. It went in easily and came out with a simple twist, but without that twist it would stay attached to his back.

Then he picked up the necklace and fastened it about his neck. It felt cool against his chest. Now he turned his mind inward and found the place that would bring the change. And as the pain began to grow Elyas let out a yell, not of pain, but of pure elation.

OOC: Wow. That was long. Hope you didn’t fall asleep reading it.

__________________
If you don't have anything worth saying...then don't say anything at all.
~Keiru Obsidian's Motto

Posted by Eloise Rane on 04-10-2002 01:06 AM:

Within another two days, Eloise had reached the city of the battle cry, Miltus.

The city’s funcion as a military headquarters didn’t take away from its grandeur. Buildings and shops were typical of the Nylian gothic imperial style. The pride and significance the country placed in its army was evident, and there was a stiff formality noticeable in the majority of the residents.

Upon arrival, she first felt like she was on the other side of the window looking in. Commanders and enlistees alike hustled from place to place, armed and dressed for battle. Upon first glance it was as if they were one collective conscience rather than a mass of soldiers, for they all seemed to possess a shared driven eagerness, a trait Eloise could personally relate to. Although Balanum had always kept a well-equipped army, this strong conviction they seemed to lack. She rode about the city strigently, attempting to fit in with the common mentality in order to avoid curious eyes, and moreover, this seemed a place where any idleness was frowned upon.

Her first stop was a weapons stand, which there was an abundance of, and began to examine the wide array of blades, tended by a short, burly, retired soldier. He was rather short and bigger in the belly, his weathered face covered with a rough grey stubble, and marked by an inch long scar on the right of his forehead. His armor was well-worn.

He looked her up and down curiously, for women in Miltus were quite outnumbered, then interrupted her browsing with a gruff voice.

“Whatch’ya lookin fer, my dear? A sword for yerself?” He took an odd interest in her, or perhaps it was surprise that she showed interest in such things.

“Yes, sir. Something light.” She replied, making sure her voice was a bit more formal than usual.

“Light, eh? Ah...I got just the thing for ya.” He said assuredly, and turned and meddled a bit in some arms with his back to her.

When he again faced her, an exquisite looking sword lay horizontally in his hands before him, as if bestowing upon her a gift.

“This 'ere's of the highest grade Nylian steel.” His brief description failed to do the weapon justice. It was longer than most swords, and incredibly slim. The blade was double-edged, the handle twisted ebony wood with a slightly swept hilt, and surmounted by a silver ring-shaped pommel. She took it from him and weighed it in her hands. It definitely was light.

“...It’s very slender,” Eloise commented as she gently swung it through the air.

“Don’t let that fool ya. She’s strong as ever.” He gave her a friendly wink.

It was what she wanted to hear. There was something peculiarly feminine about the sword; she was quite taken with it. She pulled out her pouch and gave him her payment, which wasn’t a small one, but she hoped it would prove its worth. And she had decided against haggling over the price; the last thing she wanted to do was start out her relationship with the Nylians being disrespectful. She turned and began to walk away, still admiring it.

“Ah, ah, ah -” The man’s voice drew her back. “You want a sheath for that?” He asked, eyebrows raised.

Damn. “Oh....yes, please.” In her gratification it had slipped her mind. She blushed, embarassed by her apparent ignorance.

He tossed her a leather waist scabbard. “No charge.”

She smiled at the old warrior. “Thank-you.” She truly meant it.

“My pleasure, my lady.”

She mounted Rafael, and made haste for the center of the glorious city.

Posted by Avatar Scriptkeeper on 04-10-2002 01:52 AM:

Hey, Reed, would you mind changing all of your posts to past tense? It's an established standard, noted on the rules page.

Thanks.

__________________
Welcome to my world...

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-10-2002 02:18 PM:

the coming

Kai walked towards Ioty, her soul weighted down by the loss of her good friend. The lonliness of traveling alone was always nagging at her soul, his death playing over and over in her mind.

If only I could have stopped his death...if only I were better...If only...

She knew blaming herself for his death was a stupid thing to do, but she loved him in a way she couldn't understand, and she never had the thought to admit.

Her legs moved mechanically along the roadway, her eyes staring blankly before her. Tears stung her eyes as she blinked them away, constantly wishing to be with him again...for him to be alive again.

The night wore on with little action to bring her attention too, the waxing moon giving light to her path.

I wonder if Pablos is ok...

Her thoughts jumped from subject to subject, but always managed to come back to Leer...plunging the bloodly blade into Arann's back..causing the blood to run and for Leer to collapse in weakness, and die of a slow heart.

Upon reaching Ioty in the late afternoon, her eyes skimmed the signs on the buildings.

The Hatchet...the barber shop...bakery...general store...really ugly guy...ah hah! The Pheonix Rising.

She walked onto the inn from the street and looked for Pablos. Not seeing him in the bar area she walked to the bartender.

"Excuse me sir, is there a man named Pablos Vennings here?"

"Rrrr...Lemme check."

The bartender lifted a guestbook from under the counter and skimmed the names, mumbling them as he went.

"Hmm...Dace Jael...Kazan Beatuze...Akriah Viara...Reed Silvercloud...Ah! Pablos Vennings, room 12."

"Thank thee sir, here be a silver for your troubles."

She tossed him a beat up silver coin and went upstairs. She passed the doors in the hall and finally came upon room 12.

Knocking, she heard the faint sound of snoring from the other room. Shrugging it off she kept knocking at Pab's door.

"Pab! Wake up in there!"

She heard a slight sound from inside and got a bit worried. Finally she heard his approach. The door swung inward.

"Kai! So glad you could make it! Where's Leer?"

"Uh...he...uh..."

"Oh...thats too bad...who did it?"

"He was too weak. He killed Arann though."

"Huh...oh please, do come in!"

She smiled at her friend and went inside as she stepped out of the way, shutting the heavy door behind him.

"Sorry I wasn't fast coming to the door, I was still unpacking. So how did Leer come to kill Arann? You said he died of exhaustion."

"He did...He had been beaten to the edge of death...I came in acting like a freakin' concubine, and got caught be Arann. Telenor-"

"Telenor was actually in this? I knew he was the house where Leer was kept but I never knew that he was the culprit of Leer's death."

"Not entirely, he still wanted some information from him. Unfortunatly for him I threw a knife at Arann, who brought Telenor in front of him...he caught the knife in the forehead. I had to fight Arann."

"Oh dear..."

"Yeah...but anyway, Leer managed to free himself and get a knife from me to stab Arann in the back."

"Good Leer..."

"Aye. He was so weak and beaten that his heart couldn't handle it...he..."

"Its ok, you don't have to tell me anymore."

Kai just couldn't handle it. She was near tears upon entering his room, and she couldn't hold back the flood of them. She sobbed mercilessly, collapsing in Pablos' arms, who held her like a father she never had. She cried this way for several minutes before there was a knock at the door.

Pablos released Kai, who wiped her tears away, and went to the door.

"Who be it?"

"Reed Silvercloud..I heard crying."

"Its nothing."

"Are you sure? I may be able to do something if she is hurt."

"How do you know its a girl crying, it could me me."

"I don't believe you old man...Trust me, I know more than you want to. Plus only a lady would cry like that."

"Well thats good for you, we don't need any help sir. Thank thee for your concern however."

"Whatever, but I would like to meet with the lady."

Kai perked up and bustled to the door. Moving past Pablos she thrust open the door. There in front of her was a young man, rather handsome if she could say so herself.

"What is it that you wished to speak with me about?"

"Only that I may need you later."

OOC: Hey Reed, sorry if I made you sound different, tell me if I should edit this thing.

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-10-2002 04:33 PM:

The meeting

Reed looked at her for a long while and pulled out a bunch of papers, pulled out one and then looked at it, looking up at Kai...

"Ah Kaileigh Laeory, small time thief and pirate... I have been watching you, in a sense. Lets see, you had a hard time concerning a friend named Leer, Am I right?"

Kai simply nodded

"I also know about that Javier thing, you are quite good with the dagger, and I also watched you fighting Arann. You have great reflexes, though you tend to not use your mind under pressure of a fight. I know that you started your troubles when you slapped Telenor, that is because you have a bad temper and you cannot contain yourself... Okay, enough with the advice, I would like you to help me in the deserts of Niklew."

Kai looked at him strangely "Why should I help you?" she stated

He muttered something about stupidity and pirates, then remarked "Well, there are good rewards if you do help me..."

"Hmm, what kind of rewards?" she asked.

He pulled out a map and pointed to a place on the map near the shore "Well, there is a camp of pirates here, survivors and such from his boat I sank in Sungan. They like to keep to themselves and protect a good amount of supplies, not really just food, they have some real fine weapons that would prove valuable."

"I don't know, how do I know I can trust you?" she asked, looking at him.

"Well.... First of all, I haven't killed you yet...."

OOC: I don't see anything wrong in what you put, IM me if there is any editing needed in this, Kai.

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-10-2002 05:11 PM:

the chance meeting

Kai could help but laugh. The man in front of her thought she was interested in things of value. The scary thing is that he was right, she did want those things he mentioned. She took the map from him and looked at, feeling Pablos lean over her shoulder to take a look for himself.

"You sunk a boat my lad? Why on earth-"

"My uncle's boat. Don't worry."

"Er...right."

Reed smiled and gently took the map from Kai, putting the map in his pocket.

"Do you agree?"

"Well....who are these people exactly?"

"The people we're going to steal from are the scum of the earth, my uncle's charge. They're not worth anything, but they stole plenty of stuff you might want."

"Whats in it for you?" Kai asked, her arms crossed, leaning against the doorjam. Her tall form towered over the man in front of her. Her height tended to make her feel powerful, and sometimes scared her opponents right away.

"Well its all about revenge, my pretty lady."

Kai chuckled.

"Only revenge? You tell me of these valuable items that your opponents own, but you don't tell me that you wish to have some of these things. What kind of man are you for not wanting to steal?"

"Please ma'am, its only for revenge...although some of the items seem rather desired."

"Ah hah! So you will be stealing from these people."

Pablos couldn't help but cut in on the conversation that was going no where fast.

"Well...how will I know Kai....and I guess you, will be OK?"

"Pab, I am a grown girl, I managed to help Leer kill Arann, I killed Telenor, I've stolen, killed, sailed and robbed several banks! I think I can help myself killing a few ignorant pirates with a few valuable items." Kai said, an amused smirk playing off her features.

"Well....I guess I cannot stop you..."

"Be well Pablos, I'm not leaving yet." Kai replied, most of it spoken at Reed, rather than Pablos

Reed nodded and headed back to his room, number 113.

Kai watched him go then turned on a heel and went inside, shutting the door behind her with a dull thud. She smiled and plopped down on a rickety old chair in the corner, Pablos remaining by the door, still slightly stunned at the sudden transaction of information.

"So are you going with this...this...stranger. You don't even know his name yet!"

"Wow...good point."

Kai stood up and walked to the door, pushing past the bewildered Pablos, and knocked on Reed's door, who opened it.

"Made your decision?"

"No, I'll have to sleep on it. I'm only here to ask you what the heck your name is!"

"Oh yes...I guess it would be cordial to tell you this. Its Reed, Reed Silvercloud."

Reed stuck out his hand and Kai shook it, slightly awed by his quick response. Then she smiled, jokingly punching him on the shoulder before turning around and heading towards the door next to his. Reed just stood there and chuckled, walking back into his room, plopping down on his bed, staring at the spackled cieling.

Uncle uncle uncle...now you will feel the revenge of two, rather than one. Oh...and I hope you understand that your going to be beaten by a girl! The worst humiliation a pirate can face.

With that, Reed closed his eyes and fell asleep, the routine of the revenge playing like a tape over and over in his mind.

OOC: Mua ha ha ha!

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-10-2002 05:28 PM:

Dream... or should I say Nightmare

Reed slowly awakened from a nightmare, the horror of it all still in his mind.

In the dream it started as any other day, robbing food from a store and giving a few to the bums on the street. Though when he went back out on the streets there were no people, just a deserted street, he looked around and saw nobody. He shrugged and continued to look around, but still saw nobody.

Then he came upon a sign that said: Sungan, but suddenly changed from Sungan to Ioty, then to Xellos, and so on. He only stood there and blinked as the sign continued to change from city to city, but walked away as if it never happened, or he wished it never happened. Then he came upon a dock, though it was full of wrecked ships, this did not phase him the least... Well, he didn't show that it did.

He continued to walk along the road, and a light flashed, then he was surrounded by people, though all of the faces were familiar. He watched thier movements; slow and shaky. Then he saw his uncle pass by with his two pirate buddies that he killed... Then it hit him who all of these people were...

Back in his room he woke up, looking around and standing up, walking out of his room slowly. He walked down the stairs and sat at the bar, ordering a water and drinking it slowly...

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-10-2002 05:48 PM:

The Awakening

Upon early morning, Kai found herself curled up on Pablos' bed, beneath the covers. Pablos was not there. He was most likely getting breakfast or using the "little boys room" As he tend to call it. Sitting up she stretched the sleep out of her body and slid from the mattress, her feet coming in startling contact with the cold floor. Gasping a bit under her breath she yanked them from the hard stone surface, stuffing them under the covers.

She searched frantically and found some slippers. Putting them on she walked down stairs, not caring how disheveled she looked. Her appearance caused some stirring, for her hair was unbrushed, her clothes were wrinkled and her eyes wer half closed.

Upon spotting her, Pablos leaped up off his barstool and almost picked her up, dragging her upstairs.

"Well...don't you look..."

"Can it Pab. I can look the way I want to." Kai chuckled and looked up at him, smiling at her would-be father.

"I don't care young lady. March yourself into that room right now and fix yaself up."

Kai sighed and walked in, shutting the door behind her. She changed and made herself look more presentable, walking back downstairs.

Pablos nodded his approval and escorted her down the stairs.

Reed looked up from his glass of water and nodded, staring blankly at the distressed wood of the table. Kai smiled back and made her way to the bar.

She was wearing a simple dress (Pablos' demanded it) of light green, sandals on her feet and her hair done up simply, yet beautifully. To this, the drunken men whistled and proposed toasts in her honor. She clenched her fist and was held back by Pablos, who knew her tendencies when she was forced into a dress. She never was a lady.

"C'mon purty laday! C'mere an' give meh a kissy-poo!" Babbled one of the losers in the far table.

"Shut you you scum of the earth! Not even your mothers would love you!"

The men stopped then whispered amongst themselves.

"Ooo...just wut I like! A purty AND powerfull laday!"

"Shut up you-"

Pablos slammed his hand over her mouth, sensing a torrent of curse words to fly free from her mouth at any moment.

Kai pried his hand off her mouth and let them loose anyway, to the shock and embarrassment of Pablos, who set his head in his hand.

The drunken men stood up. The three of them consumed the tiny place, their beer bellies sticking out from their shirts.

Kai gagged at the sight of them and her hand drifted to her rapier. She leaned against the bar counter and let them come, holding her breath.

"You men need a bath."

This ticked the men off to dangerous levels. Their hands impulsively to their sword hilts and drew them, coming at her with malicious grins on their dirty faces.

Kai drew her rapier and stared at them, her deep blue eyes glittering with challenge.

Reed lifted his head and looked at the men challenging Kai to a fight. He stood up, nearly knocking his chair over and knocked the butt end of his spear against the ground, calling attention to him.

"Reed! What are you doing?!"

"Leave this to me Kaileigh."

"Are you insane?"

"Are you?"

Kai growled and leaped upon the nearest man and wrenched his arm behind his back, placing the tip of her blade to his back, tripping him all in one movement. Her victim hit the ground hard and yelped in pain as his fighting arm was removed from his use.

The other two were bewildered by the swift movement and caught off guard as Reed plunged his spear head in the guts of them both, twisting it to remove it. They doubled over in pain as his spear tore at their livers, causing their blood to become infected, inevitably causing death of the slowest most painfull kind.

Kai yanked the man she had to his feet and was far more mercifull with him. She hurled him out a window, leaving him lying on the ground, weaponless and left with one heck of a hangover to contend with in the morning.

"Thanks Reed..."

"Sure."

"But did you really need to kill them?"

"Sure."

Kai rolled her eyes and plopped down on a barstool, asking for some pancakes. The bartender gave her a strange look and complied, retreiving her pancakes, sliding them towards her as if she was going to bite him.

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-10-2002 06:16 PM:

Reed looked over to Kaileigh slightly. Remarking "Hmm, didn't I tell you something about your temper?"

She smirked at that and went back to eating her pancakes, muttering "I don't like being a lady"

Reed blinked at this and shrugs, looking back at the bartender. "Can you give me a white wine, I am not feeling too good this morning." And tossed a couple silvers to the bartender and waited for his drink, looking over to Kaileigh and smiling.

"But you don't make such a bad lady" he said, looking back to the bartender, who handed him his drink, and took a sip from the wine glass. Still holding the wine he walks over to a chair and sits, looking out the window to the streets. Then his dream flashes in his mind again, all of his victims wandering in a street, and he just added two.

He looked back to Kaileigh and smiled, finding himself staring at her and then shakes his head. Thinking:

Ah... I can't fall in love...

Taking another sip he sighed heavily and walked back to the bar, sitting down and watching Kai for a second, then grabbed a pair out of his pack and took a bite. He pondered, looking back down at the bar and then looked up, pushing his empty glass up to the bartender.

He looked back out at the street and walks out, wandering down to the weaponsmith and swiping a nice-looking pair of gloves. He fits them on and then takes them off again, walking to the blacksmith and says:

"Do you think I could sell you these gloves, they don't fit me right."

"Ah, those are some nice gloves there, I will give ya about... 10 silvers for them, that sound O.K.?"

"Thats fine."

He snickered again at the stupidity of common people and jingled his coins in his pocket as he walked back to the bar and sat at a stool again, looking at the bartender. "Can I have a red wine?"

"Aye, sure"

With this he tossed him a silver, then turned to Kai "Would you like anything?" he asked

"Hmm... I guess, I will have a white wine" she answered

He hands the bartender another silver and then streteches a little, a bit tired from the lack of sleep last night because of the nightmare.

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Eloise Rane on 04-10-2002 09:39 PM:

Eloise had reached the Academy of Martial Arts and manitained a strict composure as she approached a General's office within the stately halls. A retired commander sat behind a majestic desk.

He sized her up with a discriminating glance. "So, you'd like to enroll."

His tone was anything but welcoming. He was a formideable man; unlike the weapons merchant, he had retained his vigour throughout his years like a fire that never ceased to burn. His age had had little effect on his supremacy. He was taller, lean and fit, with sharp black eyes and hair, dark skin, and a patch of grey at each of his temples.

Eloise didn't waver at his discourtesy. Instead she let her hefty pack of silver mels drop abruptly onto his desk with a 'clunk' in front of him. "I would like to receive training in the sword. I understand a physical test is required to determine my capability. I'm ready when you are."

The General examined her for a moment, then slowly got up and made his way around the desk to where she stood, slightly annoyed by her impudence. A small smile formed on his grim face and he gave a quiet mocking chuckle. He stepped very close to her, and looked deep into her eyes to better make his point.

"How ignorant you are. This is a place wrought in honour and tradtion. Reserved for sons and daughters of Lords born into nobility. Men and women who show the Empire great promise. I don't know who you are, but you don't belong here."

Eloise struggled not to laugh at his statement. If he knew her parents, he might have felt differently about that.

"You're right. I'm of no nobility. But I do show great promise, I assure you." Her eyes narrowed. "Is it your custom to turn down every man and woman who wishes to serve their empire, simply because of their blood? Are you that petty and self-serving? At least give me the opportunity to prove my worth. If I don't meet your "standards", you can take whatever action you see fit."

A light in his eyes told Eloise this was more of a challenge than a compromise. "Very well," he said finally, with a sly smile. "Your test will be administered early in the morning. Allow me to show you to your accomodations."

He turned to leave the room, then stopped short in the doorway. "I'm General Radolph, who may you be?"

"I know who you are," she lied. "I'm Antwon, Ilexis Antwon."

They paced together down the regal corridors of the Academy, their footsteps on the polished marble floor echoing down the hall. Their voices did the same.

"Where did you grow up?" His tone was much more suspicious than it was conversational.

"Filiam."

"Have you lived in Nyliam all your life?"

"Yes." She snapped, then shot him a sharp glance. "Any more questions?"

"You'd be best to take some care with that tongue," he replied calmly, "if you intend to keep it."

Then he shook his head. "Commoners," he muttered under his breath.

Posted by Avatar Scriptkeeper on 04-11-2002 12:01 AM:

OOC: As Indigo

"Um, Saeth?"

The Elwain looked at him cooly. "What do you want?"

"Do you know where Til is?"

Saeth's gaze was stony. He offered no reply.

"Well... I'm leaving for a few days. Can you give her this message? Tell her - If you would, of course - that I'm going to Xellos to see my parents." Indigo watched the cold Elwain eyes.

Saeth may have nodded imperceptibly, or softened his gaze a bit, or perhaps Indigo was imagining it. Either way, Indigo nodded.

"I shouldn't be gone long. Probably not long enough for you, huh?" Indigo's smile was unreturned, and it faded. "Well, whatever. I'm going to my room to pack."

__________________
Welcome to my world...

Posted by Nelcar on 04-11-2002 03:28 AM:

Small innocence...

Timidly, the little girl reached up, her small hand gently brushing the side of Nelcar’s ear, her tiny fingertips eventually finding their way atop the points that pierced Nelcar’s long, black hair. Ever so slightly, she ran her fingers across his ears, amazed that, although they were shaped so differently, they felt so much like her own. He smiled when he looked upon her innocent face, her blond hair looking as if it belonged atop the head of a small Elven child. He knew that, someday, he wanted to have children, but he had never given such thoughts serious contemplation because he had, until recently, never truly been in love. But then she came, Til’Sylvanna, the White Lady, and in her beauty, he was lost, guided only by the fire that burned within him and yearned for her and her love. And now, he had forsaken her and the stifled desires of his heart, leaving because he knew he would never be able to supplant the primal passions of her mother’s Gift, now flowing through her own veins.

The two boys who had, presumably, been leading Nelcar to a stable stopped for a moment, apparently arguing about whether or not to turn right. The four of them stood on the corner of two streets, Davin Street and Daven Street. Certainly, the argument between the two boys had something to do with the carelessness of such naming. While the two boys debated amongst themselves, Nelcar spoke to the little girl he held in his arms.

“Bless you little one, but how might I call you by name?”

“My name is Mieatsa,” she said with no little pride. “What’s your name sir?”

“I am Neclaur, my mother’s son, child of Oloth and Alare. You may call me that if you would like, or you may simply call me Nelcar. Mieatsa, you like to smile, don’t you?”

“Sometimes. But not always. Sometimes, I cry when I’m sad.” Certainly, it did not take her long to start smiling.

“You’re a very honest girl, aren’t you?” Something within him told him that this girl strangely innocent. “Tell me, would you be willing to help me? I need you to keep a little object for me. Would you be able to do that?”

For a moment, Mieatsa did not answer, her small, lively, blue eyes bent upward as if in deep contemplation. “What is it?” she asked.

“Well, I’d like you to tell me whether or not you would be willing to keep it before I show you what it is. Would you be willing, Mieatsa?”

Again, she did her best to try to give the decision mature consideration, but soon enough, the inquisitiveness of childhood possessed her. “Yes, I will keep it, unless it is something bad, like a frog or a worm.”

Nelcar laughed, setting her down upon the ground. He stooped to one knee, although he was still a full head above Mieatsa, and produced a small fur pouch from beneath his gray cloak.

__________________

Tend to the litany,
and bare it with your wisdom.
Then, with wisdom more, bear it,
and litigate that which has now become your Law.

Posted by Keiru Opal on 04-11-2002 09:30 AM:

After making a stop at ‘The Brass Monkey’ for a few hours, Sekirah strolled through the docks toward Ewen's ship. He was once again fully clothed and had given up on ever seeing the girl, Amanda, again. When he boarded the ship, all were asleep below deck, all except Ewen who was waiting up for him, sprawled out across some relatively soft bags of supplies.

"We missed ye" Ewen said, pulling himself up from his leisured state. "Where ya been?"

"I doubt that you really missed me, but if you must know, I was taking some time alone to think." Sekirah would have told Ewen about the thief, as he trusted the man, but at the moment, all he could think of was getting some sleep. His prowling about the streets as a panther had worn him out. It had been quite some time since he had used his magic in that way and he was suddenly quite curious to see what he could do, but that would have to wait for another day.

"Well, you'd better get below deck before you start waking people up," Ewen advised, making Sekirah realize for the first time since he had changed back into his normal state that he was not at silent in his human form. He nodded his agreement and slowly made his way to a ladder that led below.
--------------------------------------------------

The next day was about as uneventful as Sekirah could fathom. He, Cedric and Ewen had made their way through the misty city and up to the temple, only to be greeted by a line of people waiting to take their dedication. So bored he was that he didn't notice Amanda a few places back in the line since he was busying himself by staring up through the mist at the clouds, or counting the pebbles along the road. He realized how truly childish these things were and set about playing with his trench coat instead. Amanda, however, had noticed him, though she kept silent. She took the time to truly study the mysterious man with silver hair.

Within an hour, it was Cedric's turn to take the test. Much to Sekirah's surprise, Cedric returned only a few minutes later with a rune indicating that he had been dedicated in water on his hand.

"All that waiting for just a few minutes in there and a fancy tattoo?" Sekirah asked, noting the shocked expression on Cedric's face as well.

"You well know that it's more than just a tattoo, Sekirah," Cedric said, referring to the mark of a Silverblade on Sekirah's own hand. "Other than that, I don't remember much of what happened..."

"Neither did I," added Sekirah when Cedric trailed off. "In any case, we’d best get back to the ship and make plans to set sail tomorrow.”

“Where did ye want to set sail to?” Ewen asked. “Ye know that my crew’s at your disposal.”

“Thanks Ewen,” Sekirah said. “We all want to make as much impact on these Shadowspawn as we can. I think our best bet would be Southdale. I heard rumors last night at the bar that the spawn had been spotted there.”

“So we’re not going back to Asheri?” Cedric asked, a bit confused.

“No, not yet anyway,” Sekirah replied. “If they’ve got spawn in Gania then it won’t be long before they have a large scale, military retaliation; I want to be part of that.” The memories of the attack on Fayre flooded into his mind. He remembered all their ripping and slashing, burning and biting as one Lunari soldier after another fell to the ground. It was about time that the Shadowspawn suffered that kind of dessimation.

Cedric and Ewen nodded and they made their way back to the ship, passing by the girl with the brightly colored hair. She had over heard their conversation and the gears were turning in her head as her own dedication approached.

__________________
A fire from within can be seen from without.

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-11-2002 11:54 AM:

Kai sipped her wine thoughtfully, feeling the pale liquid slide down her parched throat. She smiled a bit at the satisfying flavor and looked over at Reed, who had bags beneath his eyes and looked a bit...well she didn't know what it was exactly, but it looked to her that he was suffering from something.

"Reed...are you OK?"

Reed lifted his head and ceased to stare at the counter.

"Huh? Oh yeah I'm fine...just a bit tired."

"Ah. Couldn't get to sleep last night?"

"Nah."

Kai frowned and watched him sip his own wine, his solemn expression saddening her own.

Reed felt Kai look at him and couldn't help but blush ever so slightly. He wasn't the type to fall in love, he was the type to admire a woman but nothing else. He continued to sip his wine, trying to make it appear he didn't notice her, just to hide his feelings. Kai on the other hand...

Kai couldn't help but stare. 1, the guy was handsome, 2, the man was friendly and 3, she was in love.

Gah! No!

She shook her head and sipped her wine. Unbeknowest Reed had the same problem. They both didn't really know what love was...Kai did in a way, for she loved Leer when nobody else knew. Every man she met either became her good friend, or worst enemy. Now she had met Reed and things took a turn for a much different path.

Pablos noticed this right of and chuckled, causing both Reed and Kai to turn to him, a quizzical expression playing off their features.

"What are you chuckling like a drunk hyeena for Pab?"

"Drunk Hyeena? Well...its nothing. Just thought of something funny."

"Whatever Pab." Replied Kai, a smirk crossing her face.

Reed smirked a bit too and finished his wine, sliding the empty wine glass the bartender's way, who took it and placed it in the sink where a young waitress began to wash it.

"So, Kaileigh-"

"Call me Kai."

"Uh sure. So, Kai...what have you to say about my suit from the other night? Wish to join me in my raid of the Niklew desert?"

Kai thought and turned back to him, a smile curving on her lips.

"Sure. Sounds like fun."

"Great!"

Reed leaped off his bar stool and walked up the stairs, trailed by Kai. He made his way to his room and bowed, walking in to pack. Kai frowned and realized she had no extra clothes besides the few articles that Pablos brought for her in his hasty escape.

She heard the heavy clomp of Pablos accending the stairs and turned to face him.

"Pab! what about-"

"I've got that all under control. Here are some silver and gold coins I picked up on my way out, buy yourself some traveling equipment and such like."

"Thanks! Your like a father I never knew."

She smiled at him and gave him a kiss on the cheek, bounding down the stairs, leaving Pablos smiling, as if he really was her father.

If only she ever knew...

Kai reached the main street and was taken aback by the differences of Ioty in comparison to Akaros. Merchants lined the streets and covered cabannas, donkeys, mules, horses, chickens, dogs, cats, and every concievable animals roamed the streets or were pent up in cages. She stopped and scanned what she saw for a clothing merchant and found her, far off in a hidden alley entrance.

Kai approached the humble woman, linens covering the rickety table.

"What does thee wish to buy m'lady?"

"Hmm...you have some nice clothing."

"Oh yes indeed. I believe that this tunic shall cover thee nicely, and it will fit your fine stature!"

The middle-aged woman held up an indeed beautiful tunic of the finest deep green. The sleeves and hems were embroidered with fine gold work, little flowers and leaves sewn in on the curling vine. The collar was short and cleaved down to midbreast, as to not show too much, but allow the wearer to not become hot. The tunic went town to the upper thighs and could be tied off at the waist. Kai smiled and asked the price.

"3 gold ma'am."

"3 gold huh..."

Kai thought of this and pulled out the pouch jingling with coinage that Pablos gave her and counted out 19 gold coins and innumeral silver. She counted out 3 gold and handed it to the thankfull merchant woman.

Recieving the tunic she walked further down the crowded street, keeping the pouch in her hand, knowing all the tricks of the pickpocketers. She came upon a novelty shop, a good sized canteen of tarnished metal laying upon the table.

"Fine canteen sir."

"Indeed!"

"How much?"

"5 silver."

Kai smiled and tossed him 5 silver, taking up the canteen. She was getting used to shopping.

Finally, come evening, Kai turned back, her arms full of the necessary supplies, as well as a pack mule reserved for the morning under her name.

She walked into her room at the inn and dropped her collection of stuff on the bed. Pablos peeked in from the closet and waved, a cheerful grin on his round face.

Reed knocked on the door and entered upon demand. He looked at the stuff on her bed and tilted his head, an amused smile on his face.

"Its not going to take THAT long."

Kai chuckled.

"I know, this is for later anyway. I plan to come back to here and use these later...plus its better to have too much than too little. Oh yeah, I rented a pack mule."

"Oh really? Great, good thinking."

Kai smiled and sift through her purchases, tossing the canteen and other traveling articles to one side, while keeping a few of the tunics and pants and the sandals on one end. She smooshed them folded up in a bag and plopped it down on the bed, ditching her other clothes on the pile of Pablos' clothes.

"Well...now I've been demoted to the laundry?"

Kai laughed at her friend's joke.

"Oh of course!" she replied, a grin flitting across her face.

Reed piped in, chuckling a bit at the two's compatability, always thinking that they had some kind of family relationship, but guesses now that Pablos was just an old family friend of some sort.

"Shall we head out tomorrow?"

"Sounds OK to me!"

Reed smiled and exited her room, entering his own.

OOC: Wrote this in a half-awake daze so I might've gotten a few things wrong...IM me if anything is wrong!

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-11-2002 04:30 PM:

Reed yawned slightly in his room, staggering over to the bed slowly and then he sat down on it, then fell back and slowly closed his eyes. He slept heavily and without dreams.

He woke around midnight. He slowly ambled to the door and turned the knob, still half-asleep, and walked/fell down the stairs in the lounge, finally coming awake.

Reed walked to a chair and quietly sat, watching his surroundings slightly. Then he looked over to the burning embers in the fireplace, then out the window. Until he looked out the window he was completely oblivious to what time it was, but he was still quite awake and not sleepy.

He looked around for something to do and then he pulled out that nifty little 8" dagger he lifted and began twirling it in his hand, watching its shimmering blade gleam in the firelight. Then he turned his attention to the bar, which was somewhat vacant, exept the bartender cleaning some glasses. Then he glanced up at the fireplace again, seeing only glowing embers.

Reed yawned again, the ex-pirate deep in thought at the time, thinking mostly thinking about Kai. He then snapped out of his trance and walked out into the streets, set on lifting a cloak. He walked along the desolate streets and then spotted a fine-looking store.

He walked to it and looked at what they had, seeing a good-looking cloak. The cloak was a deep emerald with a simple hood with ties at the base of the hood, the fabric was soft and thin, but still able to keep the body warm. He asked the storekeep how much it was.

"Ah, this? Hmm.... it is quite pricey, I would take no less that 30 golds for it, it was made by Elves so it will last a lifetime, at least."

Reed reached into his pack and slowly brought out a small leather pouch and loosened the drawstrings, pouring the contents out into his palm. The storekeep was quite amazed at the amount of money that the fellow had in his pouch, but said nothing.

Slowly Reed picked out 30 coins and handed them to the salesman, pulling on the drawstrings to close his pouch he slipped it into his belt. Then the salesman handed him the fine cloak and Reed snatched it, tossing it over his shoulders and tying the tassels around his neck, then raised the hood, wandering the streets again...

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-11-2002 08:12 PM:

Come morning Kai awoke. Pablos had fallen asleep in the chair across the room and was sprawled out on it. She chuckled to herself and slid out of her chair, making a note to put the slippers on first. She placed a blanket over her friend's shoulders and wondered if she should have gotton her own room. She headed outside and got some pancakes from the bartender and made a note not to look pretty that morning.

She finished her pancakes and decided to see the town more, heading out the door.

The morning was cool and the skies were clear. Kai stretched and continued down the lane. She yawned and remembered the hard way that she forgot her cloak. She sighed and pulled what she had on close to her body and looked for something to put about her shoulders. She came upon a merchant and looked through his wares, finding a worthy cloak.

"10 silvers m'lady."

"That shall do fine." Kai replied, handing him the coinage. She wrapped the wool cloak around her shoulders and meandered down the streets.

Reed wandered around the streets for a little longer before heading back to the inn to see if Kai was up.

Kai turned around to see Reed walking back towards the inn and brightened slightly. But suddenly from within the shadows a lone figured stalked him, a blade gleaming in the faint light. Kai sucked in her breath and yelled out, causing Reed's attacker to double back into the shadows.

Reed turned and saw her running towards him, fear on her face. He blinked and trotted towards her. She almost ran into him, her eyes following something he could not see.

"Kai...whats wrong?"

"There was someone behind you in the shadows...he was going to kill you I swear!"

"What?"

Reed turned, loosening his grip on Kai's shoulder. Indeed there was something moving in the shadows, an occasional glimmer of metal flashing at them...

Posted by Morgan Reamal on 04-11-2002 08:15 PM:

The adventure begins.........

Morgan Reamal sat quietly in the mid-day sun, his hand supporting his chin. About him people hustled and bustled, all hurrying to some unknown place to do their business. Morgan, of course, lived only a few blocks away, along the nothern edge of Kenoblious. He could just imagine his father, still rotting away in that damned study, and his mother, peeling tart apples with
parched and weathered fingers.

But he, unfortunately, could not go home. His disgrace staved him off. His father's future words echoed in his head, followed by the imaginary sight of the old man clasping at his heart and falling limp to the floor. Morgan clenched his jaw and inhaled deeply.

For the past year, he had searched for a ship crew to join, but none had accepted him. Finally, in a desperate effort to continue the work his father had left behind, he came home to the city that would accept him. For three weeks he had inhabited the docks, searching for ships to board, but times had become slow and with reports of the "dark creatures" roaming the land, no ship would come near.

Morgan grabbed his pack and decided that he would go home that very night.

**********************************************

It was the time between sunset and night when it happened.

Morgan looked up from his sulking and jumped as he spied two glowing ships in the distance. Brightly lit missiles continued back and forth between the two and the sails of the one were caught aflame.

The sailor watched as the closer ship, something named to the effect of the Elizabethan Ruby, continued to assualt the other, finally getting close enough to board it. Sailors poured over the ship's side and destroyed the opposition, leaving the Elizabethan Ruby's crew intact.

After an hour, the remaining ship docked at port safely and began repairs. Morgan, who's heart was racing, boarded the ship and continued to the captain's quarters. Inside he found a pale-skinned man, who apparently had forgotten to shave during the morn.

"Hello, sir." Morgan said, placing his equipment at his feet. The captain turned. "My name is Morgan........"

"Shut that damned door! You're letting in the light!" The Captain
interrupted. Morgan looked outside at the night-time sky and shrugged, closing the door behind him.

"My name is Morgan Reamal. I wish to join your crew, if you'll have me, Captain......." The Captain looked up and nodded in approval, barely giving enough time for consideration.

" Harnet. Captain Harnet. Aye. You can join. You start now. Go help the other deckhands clean up." Morgan grinned and grabbed his pack, running out to assist the other sailors.

**********************************************

It was morning when the work was completed. The repairs to the ship had been finished, thanks in part to the help given by Morgan. A good amount of the crew returned, wearing bulky clothing and led by a strangely attractive woman. She eyed him as she boarded.

"And who's this turkey?" She said, apparently supressing the need to say something else. Morgan replied in greeting and introduced himself.

"The name's Tyr Aulnay. I'm the first mate here, so you answer to me. Got it?"

"Aye."

"Then get to work!" Behind her, a brawl on the docks ensued. Local authorities were wrestling a few sailors into submission, while the leftovers were charging the ship, screaming commands to desist. Tyr's eyes widened and she quickly ordered the departure of the ship.

Deckhands worked quickly, securing the sails and shoving off to sea. Morgan stood in the middle of the ruckus, unsure of what was going on. When they sailed free of the docks, the ship turned sharply and the helmsman made to steer them away from land.

Tyr and her accomplices busied themselves with dressing down, taking off the bulky clothing and emptying out the pockets. Inside were jewels stolen from the town itself! Morgan stood, slightly nervous about his present predicament.

"Wait a second.......you're pirates!" Tyr turned and grinned.

"Aye. Just figured that out, did ya'?" Morgan stepped back and was restrained by the other pirates. Tyr approached him, gently caressing his face.

"Now, I'll make you a deal. Work for us and avoid trouble. Don't and we throw you below or make you walk the plank!" Morgan clenched his jaw again.
He had no choice.

He had to become a pirate.

Cue: Ryudo or Tyr. Finally posted! ^_^

__________________
Sailing, sailing....over the mounting waves.................

Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 04-11-2002 09:58 PM:

OOC: Aiya!! *looks around the forums in a trance* Haven't visited this place in a while.. ^^;;

Scarlet poked about the corridor, looking for any sign that her lover had passed through before. For the umpteenth time that day she caught her foot on the hem of her dress and stumbled. Cursing under her breath she bounded into a solid mass which turned out to be the guardian Elwain.

"Oh!! I'm sorry! Have you seen Indigo? The boy that was with me?"

"I have not seen the Dolensirion. He has been gone for some time now, has he not? I have not sensed his power recently," Saeth's voice was steady as he grasped Scarlet's arms to keep her from falling.

"Hmmm....it's not like him to leave so suddenly..." Her brow furrowed, then relaxed as she smiled. "It's no matter. He may have something to attend to that doesn't concern me. How is the Lady Evenstar?," she asked.

Saeth shook his head slowly, "The Lady Evenstar is... ill. She has sent me to meet with one Palin Freeborn, who awaits outside the palace. It will not be a problem for me to pass without the palace and the re-enter, I take it?"

"It shouldn't be. I'll go with you just in case." She paused. "If you don't mind of course."

"Nay, Red Star, Daughter of Modros, I would be pleased to have your company," Saeth's eyes flashed for a moment, as he scanned the area as he always did. His Asha cloak scintillated in shades of stone grey and the red of the carpet as he motioned towards the exit, "I believe that the exit is... this way?"

Scarlet smiled. "It's that way actually," she replied pointing to a corridor adjoining further down the hall. Saeth shook his head again in confusion, "Human structures are just not built the way that my kind builds them. Yesterday I got lost in here for three hours. Why don't you lead the way,"

"Certainly!" Though she had only been living in the palace for a week, Scarlet had learned her way around well enough to learn the layout of the main halls and where they led.

"Sir, what else do you know about my ancestry?" The ring of Modros flashed like fire in the patches of sun let in by the windows of the hall, as she tucked a piece of her hair behind her ear.

Turning with Scarlet through the twisting halls, Saeth laughed as related an amusing anecdote, "There was this one time.. Modros got so drunk at a tavern that we had to carry him back to the palace..." Saeth chuckled as he thought again of Til, and then, becoming more serious, "Til instructed the lad to meet us in the Grand Plaza outside of the main gates." However, the thought of the gift that Modros had been given was still in Saeth's mind. The Queen's Tear that he held within his belt pouch, and had been Modros' so long ago.

They continued through the confusing halls of the palace, and Saeth continued, "What else do you wish to know of Modros? I know little of any other members of your line, but I have many stories of the warrior prince."

Scarlet smiled. "I want to know everything. You see... I know barely anything about my immediate family, save for my sister Reika." She flinched slightly at the foreign sound her name made, but continued anyway. "I want to feel connected to some part of my family, even though it may be from thousands of years ago." She tried to hide any negative feelings she had behind a mask of acute interest and cheerfulness but she had an idea that the Elwain was able to see beyond her facade.

Saeth smiled as they passed into the main hall of the palace. They were rapidly approaching were they were to meet the boy, "I recall Modros' blade. It was longer and more curved than yours. I believe the men east of here within the mountains call it a Nodachi. It was with that sword he dealt the final blow to the Necromancer King Fenix. Ever after it seemed to have a fury for the destruction of Evil. However, I believe that the blade was lost long ago." Saeth continued as they passed out of the palace, and into the Courtyard. They still had a good deal of walking yet to do, but at least they were out in the open now.

"Modros was close to the Queen as well. He and She were perhaps too close," Seeing the change in Scarlet's composure, he laughed a bit, "No, you don't have any Elwain blood within you, lest it came from another source. But they were good friends, and she bestowed a great gift upon him before we assaulted the Great Tower of Fenix."

He reached within his pouch and produced a pendant on a thin mithril chain. The gem within the pendant was extremely small, and was a light blue color, with a seemingly yellowed center. It glittered in the day's light and threw light all about the courtyard, likening it to a miniature star.

"This is the Queen's Tear, as she called it, for she gave it to him saying 'this shall be the only tear I shed for you, knowing you are mortal and I will have to suffer your passing,’ It is a relic of sorts, I believe, though I have never used it myself. It passed on to me, as valerian could not stand to see it, and such things are not allowed into the hands of Humans lest specified by one of the Salurion. Modros' sons were not favored by our kind, and thus it passed into my hands.” He handed the chain into Scarlet's hand, allowing the gemstone pendant to hang freely, and so that she might see it better.

Scarlet's eyes widened in near disbelief. "B-b-but why me? Why do you trust me so much? Just because I remind you of Modros?"

"I am not giving it to you, Scarlet. Not yet.. I believe you to be worthy of it, but I cannot yet be sure. When you prove yourself, I will be the first to reward you. With this, 'The Queen's Tear, Shield of Ice, The Ward against Flame'." By now they had reached the gate and the pendant was attracting several glances from the sentries posted there.

Saeth took the pendant back easily, but warmly, and tucked it away in his pouch, "The young one awaits..."

CUE: Palin. Whenever you're ready, let's RP this. I apologize for the delay.

__________________

"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-11-2002 10:18 PM:

The dream...or shall I say Nightmare...

Kai placed her hand on the hilt of her rapier, Reed readjusted his grip on his spear. Both looked at the movement in the shadows with unwavering eyes.

"What do you reckon it is?" Asked Kai

"I don't know...I'm going to find out. You stay here, I have to honestly say I don't want anything to happen to you."

"Me? Stay here? Hey listen buddy, you know the kind of temper I have. I don't listen to people who tell me to 'stay back'." Kai returned, a hint of amusement in her voice, causing Reed to turn around for a brief moment. Kai returned his glance with a playful smile before trotting towards the shadow. Reed snorted and chased after her.

The movement ceased for a moment before having the shadowy figure leap out. Kai put up her rapier and Reed lowered his spear. The man watched them with unseen eyes before unsheathing his own blade. The cutlass looked oddly familiar to Kai.

Arann's blade? Can it be?

Kai shook the thought from her mind and concentrated on his every move. Suddenly she became fully aware of the fact that there were no commonfolk about. They all seemed to disappear as the man came out of the shadows...

Whats going on?

Kai sat up straight in bed, her body drenched with sweat. It was all a dream...

A dream? That....was a dream?

She didn't want to believe it, it couldn't be true. That dream was so vivid...so real. She could almost smell and feel the presence of the shadow-man. That couldn't have been a dream...they aren't that Real...

Kai slid from the bed and walked to the window, opposite the door. It was about midnight and the moon was out. She dressed and walked downstairs, heading out the door, hoping that she was not dreaming this time...

OOC: Hmm...wierd I know...but don't worry, I've got a plan for this one...

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-12-2002 01:44 PM:

Finally the journey?

Kai met up with Reed that morning at the inn. She smiled and waved at him before they met at a table. She decided not to tell him of her odd dream, but to talk instead of the journey.

"When shall we go? We could grab some lunch then pack some food and head out now."

"Sounds OK to me. You rented the mule, right Kai?"

"Yeah, its being reserved, I'll have to show you the place."

Reed nodded and they ate their breakfast in relative silence. The lobby was rather empty of patrons, since the sun was just rising. The bartender was busy cleaning glasses and placing them in the right spot, watching them with the corner of his eye.

Once breakfast was finished, Reed and Kai packed up some extra dry goods and filled their canteens with water from the pump.

Kai showed Reed the place where the mule was reserved and they finished the deal and packed the stuff onto the sturdy back of the pack mule and headed out, gently switching the rear of the mule as they headed north east, towards the desert of Niklew.

The afternoon wore on with little action, the sun's heat seemed to intesify in the desert, the heatwaves rising and rippling in the air, reaching for the heavens.

The golden sands reflected the light and the glare was almost too much to bear.

"Holy crap...I never suspected that the sun was so bright!"

"Your tellin me." Kai replied, protecting her eyes from the severe glare.

Ahead was a small oasis, near the edge of the northern portion of the desert. That, was most likely the location of the pirates...

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-12-2002 04:19 PM:

The oasis

Reed sighed, wiping sweat from his brow and taking a small sip from his flask of water, approaching the oasis slowly. He looked over to Kai and then back to the oasis.

Around 15 minutes later they were upon the oasis, but didn't see anything. Kai sat down on a rock and Reed looked around for a camp, but only saw eternal desert. Then he pulled out the map and looked at it, moving his finger to a group of mountains.

"Hmm, those mountains look like good shelter. They aren't stupid... very stupid, they could be there."

"How far would it be?"

Reed looked around and saw nothing but infinite desert.

"Pretty far."

"Great..."

"Hey, it isn't my fault."

"Whatever, lets just go."

Reed looked up at the blistering sun and put a hand above his eyes to shield from the sun, then he took a small sip of his flask and helped Kai to her feet.

Kai blew some hair from her face and set off, trailing behind Reed.

Around an hour later they spotted the camp. All in good time too, since they were almost fully out of rations.

Reed looked to Kai and smiled slightly. "Well, that is it."

Kai looked at the scattered few pirates and then back to Reed. "Is that all of them?"

"No, that is only around one-fourth of them all. We need to kill them and take thier rations before the others figure out what happened."

Reed and Kai looked to each other and then to the pirates.

"Well, you got a plan? We are outnumbered as it is." stated Kai.

"Hmm... Well, we need the element of suprise and some good luck, they might be the scum of the earth but they are quite good swordsmen."

OOC: Any changes needed, just IM me

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-12-2002 05:48 PM:

The attack...

Kai swiveled her head around for any large object that would work to hide behind. Her eyes met up with a row of dunes and a malicious grin flitted across her face.

"Over there, those dunes are our best bet. They look high enough to hide behind and depending on their position they may not see us."

Reed looked over to where Kai was pointing and grinned.

"That may just work! But how are we going to head over there without being spotted?"

"We've gone this far and they haven't seen us. I think we'll do just fine."

Reed shrugged and both he and Kai slunk low, keeping down so that the heat waves would mottle their approach and fool the pirates. Finally they reached the shadows of the dunes and fell in a heap upon the sands, enjoying the lack of sun glaring down at them, burning their skin and eyes. Taking their times they sipped at their flasks, which was all they could do to keep from guzzling their meager supply.

Finally they stood up and crawled to the peak, peering over the rim to look at the 5 lost pirates. To their glee they looked almost dead, with no water near them but plenty of food, they were mostly piled in a heap of moaning men.

"This may just be too easy..." Kai whispered

"Yeah...It kind of makes you think they're mirages."

"Could be, but I'm willing to take the chance. Are you?"

"Sure, I'm hungry and that bread and cheese looks almost like roast fish and ham!"

Kai chuckled and counted to three, during that time Kai's hand floated to the hilt of her rapier, drawing the glistening blade from its leather hilt.

Upon three, they burst over the rim of the dune and started the men, causing them to leap up clumsily and draw their weapons.

They were horribly slow.

By the time they all managed to bring out their blades, Kai and Reed were onto them, slashing at them with Kai's rapier and Reed's spear. They yelled and tripped in surprise. The attack had worked.

"Keep one alive!" Kai yelled over the clash of metal to metal

Reed nodded and grabbed one of the lowly men, keeping him on the ground while Kai finished off the other four.

"That was too easy...I wonder if the other guys'll be this stupid."

Reed chuckled and burrowed the sharp tip of his spear in the man's gut, causing him to squirm and clutch the shaft and yelp in pain.

Kai did the questioning.

"How many more?"

"How many who? what?"

"How many are there of you!?"

"You got us all lady!"

Reed deepened his spear into the gut and the man squealed like a child without his toy.

"OK OK! They're north! I think! OW! OK OK...I haven't a clue! Thats why I'm not with the others! We got separated. We were heading north though...Could you take this spear out of my gut?"

Reed thought this over and shook his head, plunging the tip into his gut, causing the pirate to yelp in pain then loosen his death grip on the shaft and collase in death.

"Well..I guess we're heading north!"

Kai shrugged and wiped her brow, walking over to the bread and cheese.

Now it was north...

Posted by Reed Silvercloud on 04-12-2002 06:20 PM:

Reed grabbed the bread and cheese and wrapped them in some leftover cloth. He whipped his pack off of his back and slowly opened it, tucking the rations in and then tossing the pack back on his back.

He looked to the sun, which was almost all the way down.

"I think we should camp here and sleep, set off north tomorrow."

"Sure."

Reed walked to a rock and sat down, looking to Kai.

"So, how is life as a pirate now? Been a while since I was one." asked Reed

"Well, I was thinking of catching a boat in Ioty, but you came."

"Oh, I see..."

Around an hour later, still pretty deep in a conversation, Kai noticed how late it was, and how tired she was.

"Well, I am turning in, see you in the morning."

Reed nodded and pulled out two blankets, handing one to Kai. then he laid down on the sand, his head resting on a rock and pulled the covers over him. Shortly he was asleep, and so was Kai.

Early in the morning, Reed slowly woke. He had a terrible migrane, but still tried to keep quiet, seeing as Kai was still sleeping. He sat on the rock and took out his canteen and took a small sip.

When Kai awoke Reed was scanning the camp, looking for a few more supplies. She slowly sat up and looked at Reed, a small forming on her lips. Then Reed turned and said "Good morning."

Reed looked over in the direction of the sun, then pointed in one direction. "That would be north."

Soon they started packing and headed out north after a short breakfast....

__________________
Life waits for all to care...

Life is still waiting for me.

Posted by Volsung on 04-12-2002 07:33 PM:

After the leaving the Gypsies outside of Miltus, Volsung and Nascent decided to setup camp. By the time they were done, the sun was just about to fall below the horizon. Volsung started a small fire and started writing down everything that he could remember from earlier in the day. After about an hour of Writing Volsung put down his journals and pens and leaded against a near by tree. “Hey Nascent what do you thing about that base Fidius was talking about?”

“I don’t know. I know there are a few bases around here but I know anything with that kind of security. Of course, the last time I was around these part was almost three years ago, and a lot has changed since then,” said Nascent as through some more wood into the fire.

Then Volsung got to his feet, “Well I was thinking about going out I’m going to see if I can find that base that Fidius was talking about.” Then he picked up on of his journals and handed to Nascent, “Keep a eye on this while I’m away.” If I should be caught it would probably be better if I don’t have a bunch of note about Nyliam with me.” Nascent nodded, then Volsung took to the sky.

It had been a few weeks since Volsung had been flying and was feeling a little rusty. But after few minutes, he had regained full control of his element. Volsung made a point to fly as high as he could, looking over all the ground. Using his Fire magic, he could see sources of heat everywhere, but most were small and scattered, but after a little while Volsung found a huge source of heat outside of the main city. Burning brighter than anything, he had seen so far. In addition, he could see that there were guards walking all around the area. “That has to be it, I should land incase they have there own mages on watch.”

Volsung landed a few miles inside the Dark Wood; he had not seen any guard in this area before he landed. After Volsung was set up on, the ground did his bet to suppress his body heat then he started walking very slowly in diction of the Base. He kept his eye out for guards but with all the under growth Volsung couldn’t see very far.

After a few hours of walking and a few close calls Volsung found his way to a place where he could seeing to the Base. As Volsung watched he found out why the base was so hot, it seems that they were burning coal. “Well that explains why I could see this place but it doesn’t tell me much about what is going on here.” Volsung thought to himself, just at that moment one of the large building doors opened. “Now what going,” Then a fairly large ship was wheeled out. Volsung looked on in ah, since never seen something like this. To Volsung it looked a lot like a sailing vessel, but it had propellers instead of sails. After a short while the “ship” took off and flew around a little bit then landed.

After seeing the ship land Volsung made a few mental notes and made his way back into the Dark Woods. Volsung didn’t run into any guards, but by the time he was far enough into to fly again the sun was rising and he had to fly as fast as he could to make sure that no one seen him. About after hour taking fight Volsung found his way back to camp. Volsung pulled his journal out of Nascent bag and then wrote down all he had seen.

Occ: Hey Onyx if you have any problems just tell me and I will change it

__________________

"Listen! I've traveled every road in this here land!"

Posted by Arboreal Prowler on 04-13-2002 02:46 PM:

Meeting the enemy

The Arboreal Prowler walked over to where the wolf was on the ground. He was lying under a blanket, and had a contemptuous expression on his face. He was now in his more humanoid form. The Prowler sat down next to him and looked at him for several moments.

One of the few humans in the world who spoke Fiero fluently, the Prowler talked to the wolf. "Good morning, my friend."

The wolf just continued to stare up at the sky. There weren't any clouds to look at, so it was obvious he was trying to ignore the Prowler.

The Prowler continued. "You're doing very well; it's a good thing Fiero heal quickly." The wolf just growled annoyedly. "You're a Black Wolf. Are you the one called Halar?"

"I am called by my name, human," the wolf replied harshly.

"Is it Halar?" the Prowler asked. The wolf just continued to stare at the sky; the Prowler took this as a yes. "What happened to the rest of the pack?"

The wolf suddenly snarled and tried to grab the Prowler, but he was too weak. He lied back down. Knowing what this reaction meant, the Prowler said no more. The rest of the Black Wolves were slain; it was sad news. The Fiero would mourn for them for months.

The two of them sat there silently for the rest of the day.

Posted by Til'Sylvanna Evenstar on 04-14-2002 12:06 PM:

Love's lost...

OOC: This is cued after Nelcar's leaving, and before Scarlet's last post.

IC:
Til'Sylvanna sat at the open window of her airy room looking down at the courtyard below her. Humans went too and fro about their daily business with ease and happiness. Their Princess was back safe and sound. She smiled. She enjoyed watching them, and finding peace in being alone. She had not seen hide nor hair of any of her friends, which meant that Saeth had acquiesced to her wishes. She knew that the others did not like her fae moods, but she needed this time to think. She had had so little time for it of late. She just wanted to make sure that she had things straight in her head before meeting with Scarlet and Indigo again. None of them could afford for her to be wrong or unprepared. Truth be told... she was still a little afraid of him, but it would pass. He was a good soul, they both were.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a flutter at the edge of her perception. Saeth was coming.

Saeth stopped in front of the door, and turned about to study down both directions of the hallway. Seeing that nobody was around, he pivoted again, sending his long raven hair spinning about his head. He knocked evenly on the door three times, though he knew Til’Sylvanna was aware of him, he thought it extravagant to use the bond as a doorknocker.

Within the room, she sighed. It had better be important... She did not take note of the state of Saeth's emotions... and should have.

She called out into his mind, "It's open."

Opening the door easily, and ducking under the frame, Saeth came to his full six and one half foot height inside of the room. Looking about like a tiger for a moment before speaking, he walked to the lady's side and knelt beside her.

She furrowed her brow at his show of formality. Something was amiss....

Saeth's voice was strong, but filled with passion, a sad, unhappy passion, "Nelcar has gone, Milady. He left but an hour ago, but I sensed that I should not disturb you while you were in such deep thought,"

At first she did not understand. "Gone? To town? Whatever for?"

Saeth grimaced, and a sharp pain passed through the bond. Feelings of hurt pride, of misunderstanding, and of a damaged fledgling friendship, all because of Nelcar's words.
She winced at his emotions and began to draw back from him only slightly. Her pale silver eyes grew large, uncomprehending. Saeth shook his head, "No, Til'Sylvanna. He has left us. I know not where he intends to go, but he has no intention of staying with us,"

It took a moment, but when understanding hit her, Saeth felt his Ward's anguish like a knife to the soul. All color drained from her face, and she began to shake violently.

"No... no... This cannot be...” she stammered. Horror and panic began to set in, complete terror and heartbreak. She was shattering.

Saeth stood quickly and grasped Til’Sylvanna firmly by her arms. He could feel the grief about to overwhelm her, and knew that it very well might break her once and for all.

She looked at him like a wild creature caged. "No... NOOOOOOOOOO.........." She wailed at the top of her lungs. She tried desperately to escape the strong hold that Saeth had on her, but to no avail. She had little enough strength as it was, let alone in the face of his protective instincts.

Saeth winced only slightly, but not from the high pitched scream of his ward, but rather from the emotions that ran so strong and rampant through their bond

"Til!" he cried out, "Get a hold of yourself! You are stronger than this!"

She seemed to lose all control of her muscles, for her legs gave way beneath her. She was sobbing fit to break.

"How could he? How could he leave me alone?"

Saeth took this as a cue, and scooped her light frame up into his arms. She pressed her teary eyes into the nandi of his shirt's shoulder, and he carried her to the bed.

She was shaking her head, lost. He could feel the fragile grasp she had build in reality slipping... She was so frail in the Waking world, and this was more than she may have the strength to take. "I cannot... how could he? I thought... loved me... all wrong... alone...." Her words made little sense, for she cried so hard.

He knew not what to say or do. He, even within his thirty-five hundred years, had never known love. He had loved the queen, and he loved Til, but not as Til’Sylvanna loved Nelcar.

She cried for a very long time... the afternoon sun began to set... and still she did not cease.

'Why?" She finally said after she had calmed slightly, tears still fell, never ending. “Never have I given of my heart... not even to Valerian who loved me beyond all things... who died for me. Never have I given of my heart, and yet he to whom I have given leaves me alone to face the darkness of the future alone? Why? What did I do wrong, Saeth?" She looked up at him, tears glinting like starlight in the silver of her eyes. There was so much innocence in them.

"Why, you ask?"

Those eyes touched him, and he knew instantly of his fault, "I do not know why... or what you have done wrong, or what he has done in forsaking you, however, I believe that this may be another of my faults, Milady... and," his voice caught in his throat, "I seek your forgiveness..."

She frowned. “It can be no fault of thine that Nelcar son of Alare has forsaken me." She knew very well that the two Elwain she loved so much did not share the same love for one another. She knew that she was the cause of that strife.

"Milady... he thinks that we are that which you and he are. I could feel his jealousy flowing off of him like a flame. It is because I bonded you that this has come to pass,"

"What?" She seemed confused, and now the first stirrings of resentment began in her. "Why would he think such things? I have had a Warder all my life. I am of the Dol’Allymar House, and the Guardians have always served us. We are as Guardian and Ward have always been, no more and no less. I am no fighter, and need you." There was fear in her eyes. 'You are not going to leave me too?" Panic began in her. "He had no cause to be jealous... none at all. Did he think so little of my love that he could think such things? What fire burns in him that cannot be tamed?" She held back a sob. "Not even by one who loves him so?"

"Nay, Til'Sylvanna, I will never leave your side, for not even your command can make me do so, the only thing that may take me from you is death. And I know not what works within his mind that he cannot see us for what we are. A Lady and her Warder."

She began to cry again; too much did the sorrow of Nelcar's leaving burden her. "I... I thought that he loved me."

"So did I," Saeth slowly spoke, "I thought that his passion for you burned brighter than a thousand suns.”

A dark voice spoke in the back of her mind, "Loved you, sister dear? Who could love you?" She shuttered, pushing the voice of Til'Silvannis away, but not before a single tear of blood fell.

She sat there in the arms of Saeth Shen for many long hours. Sometimes she cried, sometimes they simply sat. Finally she asked. "Have you ever loved, Saeth Shen?"

There had come to be a stillness in her... a coldness. That which comes of a soul who has accepted the inevitability of aloneness, who has accepted grief and sorrow as the core of being.

A knife of pain, jealousy and envy shot through the bond, and Til'Sylvanna could not help but gasp. Saeth's reply was simple, "No." His voice was cold and seemingly uncaring, but he could not hide his true feelings from the White Lady

"Never?" She knew what this was doing to him, but for some reason the thought of his pain being like hers made her feel less alone.

"Save for what I feel towards you, and what I had for your Aunt and my parents... No... never..."

" I loved my mother... she and I were very alike. But, she died when I was only ten. I don't even really remember her. I love my father, but he has never been an affectionate man. His service is to the Elwain, not his children. I loved... my brother with all my heart, but now he damns me. Valerian died for me, and I never told him how much he meant to me. Those I have loved." A new kind of edge was creeping into her voice. A coldness that had not been there before. A coldness Saeth knew all too well.

"I loved Nelcar... I love him still. And eternally shall. But he has abandoned me. He has left on whatever fate he has seen fit to follow." She smiled wryly and bitterly. "He always said that it would not be well for us, and that our way would be a dark one. He said that sorrow would always be our path even in sunlight, and that we would oft stand in opposition due to our contending Fates. I had hoped him wrong, just this once."

She curled into Saeth's protecting arms, and looked him in the eyes unflinching. 'You are alone, and so am I. Together we shall be now, with none else. We will stand together, we who are most alone in the world. We will see this thing done, but for us, there will not be a happy ending, I think."

He held her close, and thought of what Nelcar had caused. He would have words with him the next time they spoke, if he did not run off and get himself killed. He simply held his Lady. It was his job to be her beacon of strength in her times of pain, and not to let his emotions interfere with his duty.

"Til'Sylvanna, shall we not take a walk through the gardens? The warm air and the freedom of the trees shall do the both of us some good."

She settled into the shadow that was now upon her heart. There was a place in her that still wanted to cry, but she would not. She could not. There was no time. Nelcar had left her. There was little more that she could do. She could, if she wished, take hold of his dreaming mind and ring all of her answers from him, but would not. She loved him still, and the Elwain know the need for solitude in their own kind. He has followed some other star, a star that was no longer her. She only prayed that he would not live to regret it. He had ever burned brighter than the rest, and those who played with fire got burned. She smiled bitterly. Indigo had seared her mind, Nelcar her heart. She had only her soul left to give. To Saeth's question she responded, 'Yes... some night air might do me good."

Saeth stood and extended his crooked arm to Til’Sylvanna, who passed her own through and they walked from the room with the grace of their kind. As they passed through the halls, Saeth's Asha cloak made it seem as if a disembodied head were escorting the Elwain Lady to the gardens. A sight that made many of the servants scurry off as quickly as their feet could carry them.

As they entered the garden, Til'Sylvanna was assaulted by the power of the stars above. No moon shone upon them this night, and she shivered. A deep foreboding fell upon her. "A dark moon sees Nelcar from my side. I fear for him, for it is into Shadow that he goes, and I do not hope to ever see him again." She felt the doom she had pronounced even as the words left her lips.

"I have Seen our path, Guardian mine. I have been Shown the Way. Soon we must take councils with Scarlet and Indigo, for I fear that our time grows short. Events are moving in the world and we cannot stop them."

Saeth did not reply, as he thought of the horrible end that Nelcar must face, and of how he would have died for him as well.

She picked up Saeth's sadness, and tried to offer what small comfort she could. "I do not think that he will find an end in this age of the world. I have always known that his path would lead him far from these shores... far beyond where our kin have traveled in many ages of the world."

"We, however, stand a far greater chance of meeting a tragic and untimely death." She said this with such frankness it was humorous.

Saeth did not move, yet his cloak fluttered gently in the wind. His hair trailed out behind him with the breeze, Fylorn'el'desh'meive glinted its faint light from a nearby torch, and all of Til's words sunk into him like so many burdens.

"I am sorry," She said softly and with great care, taking his hand in hers. "Yours has never been an easy path, and I fear that I shall make it no lighter. But know this, what we do will save or damn the world. We have the keeping and care of those bright human souls who must stand in the light against the shadow. What greater calling is there?"

Saeth shook his head softly, his hair flowing up more with this motion, "I do not know. I would say love, but I cannot honestly claim this,"

Her eyes narrowed slightly. "Love... We shall just have to find it elsewhere, for Nelcar has gone. I..." She did not finish. Talking of him only made her want to ride her horse out as far and fast as she could to find him. But, she knew that she could not. She must not. His stars were his own, and she had not the right to change them.

She looked up at the starlit sky, rubbing at the deep scar on her right palm... Valerian's scar. It was time to go back to work. She could grieve when she had time, people were counting on them. Besides, it was not proper for the White Lady of the Elwain to show such emotions in public. That much she knew, even if she flaunted so many other protocols.

“We need to talk to Scarlet and Indigo... and Palin awaits my summons beyond the castle walls. I received word of the lad's request to see me this morning."

She smiled as Saeth grimaced at the mention of the human lad they had helped so many weeks ago.

"Palin? That whelp we met nearly two moons ago??"

"Indeed." She laughed. "That whelp is the Champion of Earth. We need him." It was good to laugh.

Saeth shook his head. He did not understand Til's plans, and did not wish to. He would follow obediently and so his job.

"At least your Common has improved since then," she teased.

"It is my talks with the red star that have helped me significantly.. It had deteriorated over a thousand years of not being used,"

"I can imagine." She took a beep breath and in her mind called out a prayer to Nelcar. "Keep thyself well, Firesong, and know that I love thee still. I do not hope to see thee in this world again, but my love shall ever be thine. May the moon ever light thy path, and the stars thy darkest night."

She sighed, having said her good-byes. A tear shined in her eye, and she tried to wipe it away before Saeth could see it.

"We must go," she said taking his hand once more. "They await us, though first I must calm myself and take a little rest. I am feeling greatly drained."

In his mind she said, "Thank you, honorable Esiai’desh’mirain. You are a true and loyal friend.”

As she rose, he took her hand and went to one knee, kissing her hand lightly, "It is an honor to serve,"

For those who may have seen them in the starlight, a beauty who's like was never after seen in that land were to two Fair Folk that night. They shone with the power that only deep sorrow, and deep friendship can make.

__________________

Darkness- a heart that knows not love.
Despair- a soul that knows love, and still dwells in Darkness.

Posted by Til'Sylvanna Evenstar on 04-14-2002 12:13 PM:

A meeting in Dreaming...

Til'Sylvanna sat in her Dream garden and opened her soul to all the light within. So burdened was she with the unbearable sorrow of Nelcar’s leave taking that she did not care what might happen to her if she tired to Summon. All she wanted was to fill the hopelessly empty place in her heart. She called out... Summoning any spirit of good that would listen...

She felt the wave of magic rip through her... and tried with all her might to bring it under control.

The spiritual plain was turbulent as of late, as the latent spiritual energies of Aeterna were tumultuous. It was a random flash of energy that bladed by Ezra's head that made him notice the call. It was weak, weaker than that of even his own apprentice Thinious, when he had first come to him, but it was infused with some sort of passion and holy fury.

Til felt the energy of another spirit... a light in the far distance.

Though the call was not even to the material realm, Ezra focused his thoughts and pressed to the middle ground between reality and the spirit realm... and stepped into the world of dreams…

He appeared before Til'Sylvanna, nearly as tall as she, his violet eyes piercing through her as she stood in utter amazement. His green blue robes ruffled quietly in the slight breeze, and his blonde hair, though tied back as of late, blew easily across his back. He planted Vis Tempestatis firmly in the ground and waited for the Elf maiden to speak.

She was taken aback for a moment, for she had not honestly had faith that she would be able to Summon anything. After gaining her composure, she bowed to the man before her.

"Greetings and well met. I beg thy pardon that I have Summoned thee to me without thy leave." She was very formal and polite, for she did not know what kind of power this spirit held. She looked him in the eyes, wonder and fascination written all over her pretty face. He could see, even in the Dream, that the elf maiden was tired, exhausted in fact, and almost broken by a new and deep sorrow.

Ezra smiled easily, "Nay, Elf maid, you did not summon me here, at least not by force. I simply answered your call, for it was infused with the spirit of your people, and that spirit is filled with light. Though the call was weak, I was curious, and wanted to find out what it is that you want, or need," Ezra's hair blew a bit more as he approached Til, "I am Ezra Al'Teyr, Archsummoner, Avatar of Spirit. Who might you be, my pretty lass?"

She smiled. She liked very well the easy manner with which this human addressed her... not treating her like a porcelain doll, or like some magical terror from old children's tales.

"I, great Archsummoner, Am Til'Sylvanna Dol'Allymar, called the Evenstar by my kin, and White Lady by thine. I am kin to the King, and only newly made aware of my ability to Summon." She blushed, very becoming on her pale cheek. "Thou art the first, and I did not know what to expect."

Ezra brought his hand to his chin and rubbed his clean-shaven face. He wished briefly that he still had to shave, but dismissed the random thought, "It is ironic then, that I have come to you, for I preside over all the creatures that make their home here. Nonetheless, I can see that you have talent, and though you are female, you may have much skill in time,"

She raised a delicate eyebrow. "Though I am a woman? What has that to do with anything?" There was a challenging smile on her face as she gestured for him to walk with her.
:
"You kind know little of the balance of the Magic of the Earth, for your magic is so much different from that which you are attempting to do. Within Terra magic, there is a feminine side and a masculine side, as well as a side of darkness and a side of light. Spirit is the most masculine and least feminine of all the spheres of Terra Magic, thus making men much more powerful in summoning than women," His eyes were soft and yet piercing at the same time, an eerie effect of being only semi corporeal.
:
"I see," she said. "I did not really choose to be a Summoner. I was... enlightened as to my ability only last night, actually."

"And what was it that enlightened you to this ability? Did you mistakenly summon something like I did with my latent talent?"

She grinned. 'Not quite. Call it... Divine intervention. I am an Oracle, you see. I have Seen many things, my ability to summon as one of them."

"Then perhaps it was fate that we meet here, for if you are an oracle, you must be the silver star that shines so brightly from the material world, the one that was just so recently wounded by the Dolensirion,"

Her eyes widened in surprise. "Yes... How did you know?"
:
She said softly. 'He did not mean to... it was fault of mine not his. And besides, my hurt is of my own blood... that which will not leave me in peace. No human has the power to harm me as He does." She stopped speaking, for she had said more than was her wont already.

"I have many friends and eyes that peer through the curtains of our world into yours. I know what power this boy Indigo wields, though it is not my place to tell you of it," Ezra broke into a wide smile thinking of Salamander and the boy, "However, I will offer you two things. One, I know the location of the white star, and I know that soon he will either be broken, or be on a quest that will be
hard to pull him from, yet you need this man, if you can still call him that. He is more than a man now. Second," Ezra walked very close to Til’Sylvanna, bringing his face very close to her own, staring into her eyes. He then broke into a large giddy grin and kissed her square on the lips.

The elven Lady reacted in the only way she knew how. She slapped him squarely across the face, her own flushed and pink with furry and indignation.

Ezra held a thoughtful pause for a moment, recoiling back a bit, and then smiling again, "You do have the spirit and the will. I'll teach you,"

"How DARE you!" She did not know what to think... for no one, in all her long centuries had ever done such a thing to her. She was totally flustered, and took a few careful steps from him.

"I... thee... What?" she stammered in confusion and irritation. Whether it was his kiss or her own reaction to it that bothered her more she did not know.

She gave him a confused look, still a few paces away, less he try and kiss her again.
:
"How dare I?" He grinned, "Well, I had to know if you had a fiery enough spirit to be able to contain creatures like myself and bend them to your will. Most of my kind are not like myself, and do not answer simple calls, rather they must be forced to bend to your will,"

She contemplated ripping asunder the earth at his feet to prove how fiery she could be, but decided against such an egocentric abuse of her power. She regarded him coolly, listening to what he had to say before letting her indignation get the best of her.

He walked nearer to her and clasped her shoulder before she could get away, "You have spirit, and you have will, but do you have enough of both?" His voice turned sinister quite quickly and his robes flared from blue-green to black with streaks of purple. He rose from the ground, an aura of both darkness and light, and the fiery passion of the human species. His eyes burned their scintillating violet and his voice rose from him and seemed to come from all around. His power, even in this place, was immense.

"Are you strong enough? Speak now, Til'Sylvanna. Be thy heart strong enough to bend another creature of great power to its command? Be your will of enough fortitude to do the same?"

She closed her eyes and looked deep within herself. She looked for the wellspring of silver fire that was her true power and took hold of it. She wreathed herself in the fire, making it blaze with immense power. She took Ezra into it as well, drawing him into the flames of her creation, all the garden about them hidden by the blinding light of her flames. She opened her eyes, and no longer could her irises be seen, for her eyes glowed with the silver fire, and a wind sprung up about them. She was using more of her power than she ever had before, reveling in the might of it, showing this great Summoner that she had the will, she strength, and the passion to do what ever it took. To him she said in a voice that came from all places at once…

"I am the last daughter of the Salurion of the Eldest line. I am the Seer who hath found the Champions at last to bring light to the world shrouded in Shadow. I am She who is called Starfire in the old tongue and Moon Maiden. I tell thee, Archsummoner, that I have the Will. I tell thee I have the Strength, and I tell the one thing more..." The fire died and she returned to normal...

"What? That I'm a cad?" Ezra dropped to the ground lightheartedly...

The Dream garden and the starlit sky returned also, leaving them bathed in it's silver glow. 'For those I love, there is nothing that I cannot do. I would die for them."

A smile broke across his face again, making him look like a mischievous child.

She knelt at his side... "Forgive me, that was not called for. Have I harmed you?" There was true concern in her silver eyes, and friendship also.

"No, you have not harmed me, for I have no physical form, even in a place such as this, and yes, I know of your passion and commitment you your friends. But the manner in which you responded to my display of power reveals much of your nature, and this will help me teach you. I shall always be testing you, but it is only in such ways that I can find the best method for instructing you."

"I see she said sitting on a bench that she brought into being near to where he stood.

Ezra waved a hand and in the air, a mirror appeared, and within its glass confines stood a man wearing a gray jacket of sorts, with shoulder length Ash blonde hair, and the markings of a Holy Knight, "This is your white star. He is called Alexandros, but his true name is Araka. He will soon, as I said before, either be broken, and it will take you or the one who breaks him's presence to rouse him; otherwise he will go after the one that he holds so dear, and he still may be broken, but if he were to leave on this quest it will be harder for you to find him,"

She looked at the consonance in the mirror for a long time. Her heart went out to the soul who she knew would be broken. So like herself… "Must one so beautiful a heart suffer so?" There was great sadness in her eyes.

"He is a good man, and has a good heart, but he is about to experience pain that most men never know in their lives,"

"Can it be stopped?" She wished to spare this man... she did not know why, but she wanted to help him with all her heart. Pain was so hard on the soul. Sob almost escaped her. Nelcar…

"Look closely," Ezra said, pointing to Alexandros, and as Til’Sylvanna looked, her Elven sight revealed a great inner light within the man, and six crystalline wings projecting from his back.

"Angelic?" She said in amazement.

"He cannot be spared. I have considered all options, and I do not think that there is a possible happy result. Either she will break him, or he will break her. But he could never harm her, so he will be the one to be broken, and yes, this man, as I said before is more than a man...And because he is more than a man, his pains will be greater than those of men. These children have a truly tragic future ahead of them, one that will pain me to watch, but I shall do so, for the man is under my watch, and until he is gone, he shall be."

She considered his words carefully. It brought to mind a thought that had hidden in the back of her mind ever since she has seen Scarlet in her first Dream... These humans would die some day, she, as Elwain, would not. She would have to watch them all age and die while she remained ever youthful. The thought brought her great sorrow.

“Tell me how to help him, for help him I must. If I do not, all here shall be doomed." There was a note of finality in her voice.

Ezra sighed, "There is no help for this man, nothing you or I nor anyone can do. There will be pain for him, and then an end, though I have not foreseen which of the ends is will be. But he will be there for you when you need him, if he is only there because he must be, as he is bound by his oaths. If he falls before you need him, then the Creator help you, for there is another white star, but he is far off and may not be able to help you in enough time,"

"He will be there as we need... or we cannot complete our task. I must have all of the Champions.

Ezra saw the pain in her eyes, but there was little he could do, "Your time here is short, Lady, go back to the real and do not return here until I say you may. I shall teach you in your dreams, for rest is necessary during the training. It shall be better this way. Anything that you might do here, I can do as well, and I need not rest. You may make any request of me to be carried out here, but it is my command as your teacher that you do not return to the dreamscape until later."
:
She frowned. The Dreaming was her second home. A place where she could be alone, and safe... most of the time anyway. But, this human spirit knew far more than she did, and she could not refuse him in his great wisdom. "Very well, though it is a great thing you ask of me."

Ezra took her hand lightly, and clasped it, "I do not wish to take this from you, but you will need real rest while I train you. It will be long and hard, but you will prevail. As for Alexandros, I cannot say. He is unprepared for what he is about to face. Reaching the Firestar would be hard at best, and at worse, he would no nothing of what is about to happen."

"We all are," she sighed and squeezed his hand in a very familiar manner unlike she would do to one so recently acquainted. "But, I do all I can to help them. They are like children, and I fear to let them down. I do not have all the answers... I wish I did."

Ezra stood and made the Lunari salute to Til’Sylvanna, then waved his robes about him, "I shall see you this coming evening. Stay steadfast in your path, and do not falter. I will be here to consul you as well as teach you. There is much that I know of the past and what is to come, as well as the man you call the Dark Lord. But that is for later. Begone now, my student, Til'Sylvanna, apprentice of Spirit, and tell your friends of this man, and that he is in the land of Asheri, in a city named Militus, where he will either remain, or he will be coming to you more quickly than you think.”

With that he was gone, and she did as she was bidden and returned, heavy hearted, to the waking world to face the day… without Nelcar.

She opened her eyes as the first rays of the dawn lit the world on gold. Into Saeth's mind the called, "I am ready. Tell them we must now make our plans."

And she was ready... at least she hoped so.

__________________

Darkness- a heart that knows not love.
Despair- a soul that knows love, and still dwells in Darkness.

Posted by Indigo Grei on 04-15-2002 12:03 AM:

Indigo wasn't sure what kept him from leaving. He had planned to leave in the morning, but now the noon sun was creeping slowly west. He lay on his bed, creating pictures in flame, images that held no power but that to capture the eye and liven the spirit. A fiery maiden scampered across a fiery field of grass, young children played games in a fiery town, a knight of fire chased a mythical dragon down and attacked-

No.

A fiery maiden scampered across a fiery field of grass, young children played games in a fiery town, a knight of fire chased a mythical dragon down and attacked-

"Huh?" Indigo muttered to no one in particular. He sat up and framed the image in his hands. Coming to terms with the power was not easy, but using it for trifling things helped it seem more commonplace. He'd taken great delight in making pictures, for his imagination was greater than his skill with brush and paint. But now, the image would not do as he desired.

The dragon kept rearing up and vanquishing the knight. Indigo peered at the image, trying to exert his will over it.

Why would the knight hunt so noble a creature?

"I don't know."

Surely the dragon has not wronged the knight?

Whose thoughts are these?

Mine. Do not worry, I am... a benefactor. Perhaps. Maybe you will not see it so. Perhaps you see it a curse. But what I speak is true. You must not leave yet. I implore you, do not leave this place without speaking again to the white maiden.

It was the same voice. The reason he hadn't left. He conjured up the image again, or rather, attempted to. The knight appeared, and charged across the empty field. The dragon of flame would not come. The Salamander would not appear.

__________________
Is this a curse, or destiny? This fire could consume us all...

Posted by Zander Kohen on 04-15-2002 04:32 PM:

Shortly after Alex left the table for his own room, Tiffarah excused herself from the table, also. She slowly went upstairs to pack her belongings. Undoubtedly, the same thoughts weighed on her mind as on Zander's. The pair had been traveling together with Orocia since they had left Helilal and the two young women had become instant friends. Zander hadn't been as close to Orocia, but he could see that her leaving would affect his friendship with Alex, who seemed to withdraw himself somewhat in their conversation over breakfast.

Once Zander had finished his own meal, he went up to join Tiffarah. The rooms at most of the inns in Miltus were exceptionally well kept, but they had a fairly unwelcoming militaristic feel to them; Zander and Tiffarah's room was no different.

Zander made his way to the opposite end of the room where his armor and sword lay. Tiffarah was kneeling there also, admiring his blade, all of her packing done. She turned it in her had, feeling it's great weight and noticing the many chips and scratches along it's length.

"It's a rather worn thing isn't it?" Zander asked and she turned to look up at him. She had heard him come in the room, so she was not surprised to find him smiling down at her, his dark blue tunic hanging loosely about his body.

"Yes, it's light though, for it's size," Tiffarah said, handing him the large sword that needed two hands to be used properly and effectively.

"That's true, but it's size slows you down, regardless of how light it is, " Zander noted. "It's been passed down to me by my father though, that's why I use it. I couldn't bear to sell it."

"Then don't, just wrap it up and strap it to your pack, we can get you something new before we leave, if you want."

Zander thought for a moment. He had never used any other sword than the one he now held.

"That's not a bad idea," Zander decided finally. "It's about time that I retired this old blade."

"Then we'll stop somewhere on out way out of town," Tiffarah suggested.

"No, I want to give Alexandros some time to himself," Zander said, delicately wrapping the sword in his cape, deciding he would retire the semi-tattered piece of cloth as well. He slid the covered blade through a couple straps on his pack. "We can go and find something now and get Alexandros when we get back."

Tiffarah nodded and dressed herself for the road. Slowly, Zander strapped his light armor on and the two of them made their way out of the room. Zander moved his hand to the puch containing what mels they had left. It would be enough to buy new weapon or perhaps two, and leave enough for food on the way to Balanum, but it wouldn't be enough to pay for voyage across the sea to Noit, where he could take a ship to Corner and reverse his travels back to Xellos.

He wanted desperately for his parents to meet this woman that he was in love with, and to see how they were doing. However, he would have to find some work in Balanum first, so he couldpay for the voyage. What kind of work could a Holy Knight find?

Zander let the thoughts go as he and Tiffarah stepped out the door and onto the streets of Miltus. There were the usual swarm of military officers hurrying about the streets. It would not be difficult to find a suitable weapons shop, as there were many to be found. Nearly every street had more than one.

The pair strode up to a particularly fine looking shop stepped through the door to find themselves surrounded by it's equally fine wares. They both turned in place to take in the shining blades and armor.

A slender but lively man called to them from behind a large counter at the back of the shop. His broad smile shined back at them with near-perfect teeth.

"Anything I can do for you fine people?" he asked excitedly. "I have many strong blades, the likes of which you wouldn't find anywhere else in Nylinus."

"Surely you can't tell me that they are equal to those crafted in Xellos," Zander replied, knowing that the blacksmiths in Xellos were some of the finest in all of Aeterna.

"Ah, but I can!" Exclaimed the shopkeeper, and Zander cocked an eyebrow. "Most of the weapons here are Nylian steel, nearly as strong as Xellan steel, but a few have been imported all the way from the renound smithing city itself."

"Well, I'm looking for something fast and flexable, but strong as anything," Zander explained.

"I think I have something that you'll like," the man said, the grin never leaving his face. "If you like Xellan steel, it's light and strong, and I happen to have a katana made out of it." He turned and pulled the long, slightly curved blade off a rack behind him where another such blade also hung. "Have a look at this beauty." He handed Zander the Katana.

The single edged blade was slim and raisor sharp, but Zander could tell that the man was telling the truth; it was Xellan steel, as Zander had grown up around it and could recognize it on site. The handle was fasioned out of two pieces of wood, bound tightly together with sinew and capped at the end with a rounded piece of metal. Intricate designs were etched into the cap as well as the elliptical handguard. Zander liked what he saw, and he looked past the shopkeeper to the identical katana still hanging on the wall.

"I'll take them both, with scabbards," Zander said, pleased with his choice.

If it were possible, the man behind the counter grinned even more broadly as he turned to take the other katana from it's rack and retrieved a pair of scabbards to fit the fine blades. He also brought with him a large roll of strapping.

"Will you be wearing these about your waist or across your back?" The man asked.

"Across my back, if possible," Zander replied.

"Of course it's possible!" the shopkeeper exclaimed, and measured out enough strapping for each katana. "And they will be versatile enough that you can carry a pack overthem, if you wish."

When the man was finished, he handed Zander the two katanas and Zander payed him in return, leaving him with very little money. Zander shouldered each of the katanas and the young couple made their way back to the inn to inform Alex that they were ready to leave for Balanum.

Cue: Alexandros

__________________

A true leader will realize that he is nothing without the loyalty of those that follow him.

Posted by Shadowspawn on 04-15-2002 04:49 PM:

It feels good to be free... the master has given us free reign for a while... he must hate men as much as we to give us such terrible freedom...

There is a man city nearby... part of the "empire", Linerin says... But he did not tell us to spare anything in particular, so we attack the man city closest to us. Wander for days, find city called Miltus...

Looks a strong city, should be fun to tear down. Some cities fall easily, no fun. Man city Sungan barely fight back. Empire surely be stronger.

Hahhh..... we continue to grow stronger...

The people of Balanum didn't know whether to sigh or tremble. The shadowspawn were a thick black cloud above the city, wheeling and turning on twisted membranes and vestigal wings. It was the briefest of pauses, perhaps a decision was being made.

The spawn hovered over the city, and decided to continue on. They had crossed the sea between Gran Adageros and Asheri, and wished a period of rest before picking another city at random to attack.

They had sunk two small trading ships on the sea, but as creatures of pure hatred, it seemed a piddling victory, for there had been no resistance. Burning and screaming, the humans dived overboard, choosing watery graves over the horde of darkness.

But this city, this armored fortress of a city, might be a fun target. After all, they were many, and the mother rested peacefully, for now. Even if all should fall, more would replace them, in time. The world would not be free of the shadowspawn, so long as the black tower stood, and the mother drew ragged, pulsing breath.

CUE: Anyone and everyone in Miltus, and Aramus

Posted by Tyr Aulnay on 04-15-2002 07:43 PM:

“When I give you the signal, jump!”

All the pirates pulled on their arrows and aimed for the nearby ship.

“John! Sam! Come with me!”

“Shall I come too?” asked Charles from behind.

“That depends on if you want to come.”

John and Sam ran down the deck to Tyr right behind each other.

“I want to come too, and help you get some captives.”

“Fine, but don’t get in my way.”

The ship came close enough to the ship that the pirates could of jumped between them. Tyr lowered her arm as fast as she could.

“Now!”

Arrows flew between ships and hit the sides of the target ship. It started to cause little fires in the sides. Some of the arrows hit passengers who fell tumbling into the sea. Tyr jumped first and dived into the water. Her long hair swished in the water. She started to look like a mermaid while she swam to the shore.

She swam under the dock and waited until the cost is clear. When she saw that there was no more people standing on dock she went to the side and pulled herself unto the dock. She saw a few people running on the dock to shore for help. She jumped in front of them and drew her sword. Having a firm grip she thrusted at the men and children, forcing them to fall back in line.

“John! Sam! Get the rest of the captives!”

“Aye” the both replied

The men chased the down and dragged captives on board. To her surprise no one came to help those poor captives.

Hm… lazy guards we have here. They cant ever say a life these days.

When all was done the captives were pushed below the deck. Charles came back when it was almost dark. He showed up the last out of the others. Tyr came on second to John. The men that night had sung and drank their hearts merry. It was what they would always do after a great capture.

“Pour o pour the pirate sherry Fill o fill the pirate glass and to make us more than merry let the pirate bumper pass!”

Morning came and she woke up on the side of a captive man. She jumped up and grabbed the captain’s musket forcing it to his face. The man made a huge snore and woke at the feeling of a gun in her face.

“Stop don’t shoot!”

“Alright.. But don’t scare me like that again.”

She walked on the deck that morning and began the daily duties. She walked to the main wheel and starred at the horizon. Suddenly it struck her.

That chest is rather not filled…. And we need lost more treasure than that.

“Time to steal! Charles! John! Get as many pockets in your clothing as possible!”

“Aye Aye Captain!”

“And for the last time don’t call me Captain!”

She quickly ran to the rail and jumped off the boat. She swam to shore and immediately ran to the nearest jewelry store. Turning to the counter she pulled out her sword and aimed it at the man behind it.

“Give me all ya jewels ya stupid land lover!”

John and Charles came up from behind soaking wet and gasping for air.

“So you have the need for jewels Aye?”

“Shut ye trap Charles! We need to have a bigger booty!”

“As you say…”

“Alright put all the booty into our pockets”

“Into… your pockets mam?” he said with a giggle

Tyr grabbed her rapier and thrusted it into the mans chest. The man fell onto the counter. His blood ran over the jewels.

“Grab as many as you can boys!”

John starred at the blood in disgust.

“Your sure about that Tyr?”

Tyr grabbed the captain’s musket and pointed it at john’s head.

“Grab the booty…” she grumbled

The three gabbed it all and hid them into their clothes. The walked silly cause the jewels took up to much space. They tried to run to the ship before the guards could arrive. They jumped unto he ship and ducked under the rail. Soon the Elizabethan Ruby was on her way. John and Tyr walked over to the other side of the ship and emptied their pockets. As she turned to her left she saw suddenly a strange but nice looking man by the captains door. She walked over to him and pointed right at him while talking to Charles.

“And who’s this turkey?”

The men laughed as Morgan began to speak.

“Morgan is my name miss and I’m to the ship.”

“ The name Tyr Aulnay and I’m the first mate here. So ya answer to me got it!?”

“Aye.”

“Then get to work!”

Charles ran over to the other pile of jewels and dumped his things.

“Wait a second… your pirates!”

“Figured it out did ye?” She said with a smile

She walked back over to him and touched his face. Two men held Morgan there so he wouldn’t squirm.

“I’ll tell you what work for us and avoid trouble, or.. walk the plank! Its your choice.”

“Alright I’ll do it!”

The two men dropped him and he fell to the floor.

I’m going to have fun with this one.

__________________
Come friends who plough the sea, truce to navigation take another station, lets vary piracee with a lil birglary!

Posted by Arboreal Prowler on 04-15-2002 09:33 PM:

Civilized

Halar looked around at the Rangers; he did not know whether to think of them as captors or saviors. He did not particularly hate any of them; he did not even hate what they were. He despised their species.

Halar lied down and recalled the early years of his life, when he was a pup. His brother was a great fighter, and always did very well in the annual tournaments. One fight was often the only thing that stood between him and the honor of being a Black Wolf.

Halar remembered how each time his brother was defeated by a worthy opponent. Each time he lost, he would lie on his back and expose his most vulnerable area to his opponent; when he was defeated, he would offer his opponent an easy kill. Each time, his opponent would back away and accept his victory. This had always been a customary way of surrendering to an opponent in a fight.

Halar had always heard about gladiators: humans that made a living fighting each other. These men would compete in a fight to the death. They would battle, and the loser would be killed as soon as he was vulnerable. Even if he surrendered, the loser would be eliminated.

Men fight wars. They kill each other over petty differences or territorial disputes. Men would fight over a rock or a piece of desert if they felt so inclined. Thousands would march to their deaths to rescue a kidnapped queen.

Men call the Fiero uncivilized beasts. What is civilization?

Halar distrusted the Rangers merely because they were human, but he pitied them because they had to carry the bad name of the human race.

Posted by Sayomara on 04-15-2002 10:38 PM:

The meeting in the Mountains

OCC: This all happen before that shadow spawn came from the lake.

IC: Sayomara woke about nightfall, covered with dust. “Damn wind trying to clover me up,” then he yelled out, “I’m not died yet you fool.” Sayomara felt a little better for the yelling but it did not change much. So, picked himself off the ground and dusted himself off, “Time to find Carlanus Silverfinger, before I left he was living in the mountains north of Balanum and if he’s like most inventors I have met, he doesn’t like to move once he’s found somewhere he likes.” Then Sayomara took flight-heading North-Northwest.

After about an hour of flight Sayomara came to a small house tucked into the Shield Mountains, Sayomara could see the light were on and could see the figure of man walking around in the house, “Well at least someone home, I just hope it is Carlanus.”

Sayomara circled for a little bit trying to learn all he could then after was about 80% curtain that it was Carlanus in the house he landed. Sayomara approached the house slowly. When about hundred feet an away Sayomara came out into the clearing and yelled, “Hello, I’m here to see Carlanus Silverfinger.”

Then door opened and a man with a lamp came out, “Who goes there.”

“It is I Sayomara Waverunner and Ice master, please don’t tell me that you have forgotten me in your old age.”

The man stirred for a moment and then waved Sayomara in the house.

********(In the house)************
Once Sayomara was in the house he seem that there where bits and pieces all over the place. Ideas that had came and went before they could be completed, on the side of the room, there were two people one appeared to be badly hurt, and other was taking care of him. After he finished getting a quick look around the room Sayomara turned again Carlanus, “I have favor to ask of you.”

“Oh is see how this works,” said Carlanus joking. “You haven’t shown your face in these parts for almost 30 years and then you come and you want something. Well I guess you better tell me if it was that important to get you out of Farai.”

“Carlanus this is very important, I asked you only because I don’t know who else to ask. I need you to build something that can destroy a tower in the middle of Lake Asheri.”

Carlanus eyes doubled in size, “YOU WHAT? Do you have any Idea what you’re asking?”

“Yes I do and I’m only asking because I know I can’t do this by myself. In any case time is short and I have a great many things I must be doing I will send a messenger to check up on you as soon as I can. If you don’t hear anything from me assume the worst and go to Parvini there will be someone there to help.” Then Sayomara turned around and started walking out, “I hope to speak to you soon.” With that, Sayomara walked out the door, and once he about 25 feet away from the house he took fight flying southeast toward Soulwood.

Carlanus sat down, “Now how in the world am I supposed to do this?”

__________________
I have seen much in my day, but nothing as bad as this.

Posted by Tygan deParte on 04-16-2002 11:07 AM:

Tygan ran through the halls, cutting down man after man. He was ready to kill another, but then a thought crossed his mind.

“Where is Carla?” he demanded.

“Who?” the man was in a panic, like most sniveling cowards who pretend to be fighters would when there is a blade at their throat.

“The girl! The one that was taken along with me!” Tygan doubted there were many girls here, this man was probably just playing dumb, or was dumb, one of the two.

“She is down that way, then up the stairs, the third room! Don’t kill me!”

Tygan lifted his blade away from the man, “Be gone!” The man scampered away and Tygan went off in the direction he had been told. Going down the hall then up the stairs.
When he got to the top of the stairs he saw the door the man had told him of, and in front of it was the noble.

“You!” Tygan shouted.

The noble turned in surprise, “What?! Your alive?”

“Yes, but you are dead!” Tygan charged in dagger in his left hand, rapier in his right. The noble quickly unsheathed a sword of fine quality, though it was probably a bit heavy for him. Even with the heavy blade the noble was still quite skilled, at least enough to block off Tygan’s attacks. The sounds of metal on metal rang through the hall, and while Tygan was tired from fighting his way here, the noble was wearing out quickly, probably not used to doing things himself. Tygan scored a slash across the man’s chest with his dagger, but received a cut to the thigh in return. Both men moved back.

“You fight well for a peasant!” He laughed in a short hyena like manner.

“And you fight poorly for a rich boy!” Tygan didn’t laugh or smile, he just stared coldly into the man’s eyes, “Allow me your name before I kill you.”

“Hah! My name? Kill me? You shall get the privilege of neither!” The noble charged again, his sword over his head. Tygan was coincidently in front of a window, what an excellent coincidence that was. As the man charged in, slightly off balanced by the weight of his blade, Tygan deftly dodged to the side, tripped the man, and gave him an elbow to the spine to help boost him through the window. Not only did the noble receive a broken spine, but he also received a three-story fall into the stone walkway below, dead on impact.

By this time Carla and Jyfe had heard clearly what was happening outside the room and both abandoned their game of chess. They ran out the door in time to see only a glimpse of the noble as he fell out the window.

“Tygan!” called Carla.

He turned to her, slightly amazed by the fact that Jyfe was by her side, “Carla! Jyfe!” He ran to Carla and took her in his arms, though this action was quite painful with all his injuries, he didn’t care. He then turn to Jyfe and clasped his hand, “It is good to see you.”

“And you Tygan, I was right in believing you had a bright future, you are growing in skill quickly. Where is Kyron?” He already knew the answer to this though.

Tygan frowned, “He died, saving me. He said something before he died though, he said I wasn’t his son.”

Jyfe paused for a moment, “Yes, I know.”

“Then who is?” Tygan couldn’t understand this, all his life he had only known his past to be that as the son of Kyron.

“I don’t know,” he looked like he was ready to say more, but they were interrupted by brigands running up the stairs. Tygan readied his blades, but Jyfe put an arm on his shoulder, “You must go, I will hold them off.”

“You can’t hope to defeat them alone!”

“And we can’t hope to defeat them together! You will do great things, I can see that now, and you must protect Carla!” He was right, Tygan knew this.

“How will we get out?”

“In the room where Carla and I were there is some rope, use it the go out the window and hurry!”

Tygan clasped Jyfe’s hand once more, then he and Carla ran into the room and quickly grabbed the rope, “Carla can you do this?”

“I….umm of course!” He wasn’t sure if she was telling the truth, but they didn’t have time. He quickly tied the rope to a beam in the room then tied the other end to a chair, throwing the chair out the window.

“Quickly!” He could hear the fighting outside the door. He turned to the door, saluted to Jyfe, then jumped out the window. Carla came after him, but she wasn’t very skilled at going down ropes and began to slide quickly, slowing down when she ran into Tygan.

“Umm Carla,” he pushed her dress out of his face, “New plan, slide onto me and hold onto my shoulders.” She did this and Tygan went the rest of the way down with Carla grappled to his back. They landed on the ground and she hopped off his back.

“Now what?” she asked.

They looked around, “First we get away from here,” then he looked down, his clothes were cut and bloody, some of the blood was his, “Second, I need to buy new clothes.”

__________________

Can't say you'll lose if you never try.
Can't say you've won, if you happen to die.
---------------------------------
Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus.
Let us rejoice then, while we are young.
---------------------------------
To die is to sleep, only you forgot to turn on your alarm.

Posted by Eloise Rane on 04-16-2002 02:34 PM:

OOC: This post commences before the spawn attack.

IC:
It was the eve of her third full day at the Academy, and Eloise had just retired to her quarters from another stimulating day of training with the sword, which turned to be more strenous than she had anticipated, both mentally and physically. Although she was extremely athletic, the Nylians didn’t fool around, she realized.

She had passed her physical test with ease, much to Radolph’s amusement, and was part of the reason the slight difficulty of the training came as such a surprise.

She sat now on the floor of her chamber against her bed and relaxed in the content state of mind that always came after an intense workout. Her quarters, which she expected to be spartan, were instead quite lavish, she had noticed. They took pride in their warriors. Mind you, considering what she had payed to be there, she would have been right to expect as much.

The late afternoon sun shone in from an above window in a sharp angle, marking a glistening path along the rich mahogany floor and stretching upside the opposite wall.

A knock at the door interrupted her solitude. “...Come in.”

The door creaked open softly to reveal a tall, vibrant young soldier, with short black hair and soulful eyes of the same color slowly entered, and smiled warmly down at her. “Ilexis, isn’t it? Radolph noticed you weren’t in the Dining Hall and sent me to find you. You’d be surprised how fast the food here goes.”

She was actually shocked by his kindness. So far the majority of the soldiers she encountered had been arrogant and egotistical. He even referred to her by her first name, when last name was the custom.

She stood up and apologized. “I’m sorry, I’m not really familiar yet with the schedules.”

“No need to apologize. I’m Javier, by the way.” He said as they walked together down the corridor.

“Is that your last name, or first?” Eloise teased.

“First. Sha’daar’s my last.” He smiled again at her as they opened the grand double doors leading into the Dining Hall. He was even so nice as to ask her to join him and his friends at their table.

The soldiers were discussing and questioning some recent instructions they had been given, but Eloise didn’t hear them. Her attention was drawn to a far table way on the opposite side of the grand room. A group of distinguished looking soldiers sat like audacious knights at a round table. The centre one seemed to be the prevalent of the group, for the rest all looked to him with admiration and hung on his every word. He was a ravishing young man, with pale blonde shoulder-length hair enhancing his tanned skin and light greyish-blue eyes. Over his brilliant armor hung an ornate gold robe, exquisitely embroidered. Clearly a man of distinction, and mirrored the stereotypical image of the Academy well. But it wasn’t these details that caught her eye.

From the moment she entered they had looked her up and down scrutinizingly in a manner she didn’t care for, then exchanged remarks which resulted in petty laughter from them all. This continued throughout Eloise’s meal, which she found extremely distracting. The irritation slowly built within her like a raging storm. Finally she turned abruptly to Sha’daar.

“Who is that?” She asked bluntly.

He looked up from his meal to where her sharp glare was directed. He gave a brief chuckle, then returned to his dinner. “That’s the Academy’s most prized possession.” he said jokingly. When he saw this vague answer didn’t satisfy her, he elaborated.

“Alastyr Strutus. Successor to the famous Thorgood. Surely you know of him....”

“Yes.” The Nylian General. She didn’t have to be Nylian to know that.

“They have a lot invested in him. He’ll likely be a Grand General. He thinks he’ll rule the Empire one day.”

“Well he’s ignorant.” Status didn’t mean a thing to her.

“Forget him. He likes to bully the new recruits and people he thinks can’t stand up to it. He’s a coward.”

Stubborn as she was, she didn’t take his advice.

**************************************************

Later that evening Eloise and Sha’daar sat at a corner table at a tavern The Armory. It was a local hangout for enlistees of the Academy, but tonight her and Sha’daar were the only ones there, citizens and retired soldiers making up the rest of the clientel. Eloise took a powerful swig of her ale, for the last few days had called for it.

“What’s wrong?” Sha’daar asked when her face muscles clenched to show a look of disgust.

Nylian ale was incredibly bitter compared the stuff back in Balanum. “This ale is horrible,” she said after much hesitation.

He peered down into his mug. “I didn’t find anything wrong with it.”

“I think it’s just my tastes.”

She enjoyed Sha’daar’s company. He wasn’t like the rest of the soldiers, who were cocky and arrogant. He was the son of a high general, and thus forced into the army without a choice by his birthright. But he didn’t seem too altogether gung-ho about it, which, in Nyliam was practically a crime, yet worked just as hard as the ones who longed for it. He had a lot of integrity, something she admired.

He interrupted these thoughts. “Ah - look who just walked in....”

Eloise looked up to see Strutus and his company enter. He noticed Eloise right away in the corner and was a bit taken aback to see she was already aware of him. He gave her a cold stare, but she was untouched, and kept her eyes pierced harshly into his.

His lips formed a conceited smirk and he muttered something to his friends, to which they all again performed the familiar routine of looking at her and sharing a good chuckle.

They took a seat at a table out of view of Eloise and Javier, but Alastyr sat at the bar next to a young buxom redheaded woman whom he was evidently acquainted with. Eloise returned to her attention back to Javier and didn’t acknowledge him again.

Posted by Cybele Ariadne on 04-16-2002 06:15 PM:

Cybele turned around to see the girlfriend of Crane standing behind her.

“O thank god!” cried the henchman “Get me out of here Ceres!”

“Pompous worker! How dare you almost let her escape!”

“I’m sorry miss but please??”

“No. You should die for this! You could have ruined all of our plans!”

She grabbed a dagger from her side and tossed it into his chest.

“As for you, who ever you are, I shall get rid of you myself!”

She grabbed her by the arm before Cybele could think of anything and dragged her to Cranes tent. She kicked and screamed her lungs off but no one came to save her.

Azure where are you??

“Let me go Ceres!”

She laughed an evil laugh as if she wanted nothing but her full extermination.

“Your kidding right? Where exactly would you go??”

Home…

“Somewhere from you!”

And with this came another laugh louder than before.

“We’ll I do know one thing, your lovely little Azure wont come and help you. Even if he did he doesn’t love you like you love him.”

“Or like how you love Crane.”

With that she stopped and pushed her into the tent.

“I know you’re up to something! You can’t love him he has no heart for you to love!”

“Bitch! We’ll it doesn’t matter and to tell you the truth no I don’t love him. I just want that precious item he will get.”

Crane came walking in from the forest with a hand full of sticks. He then noticed Cybele in his tent and ran over.

“What is the meaning of this!?” yelled Crane

“Your so called Cybele tried to escape today.,” said Ceres

“What!?”

“She doesn’t care! She never cares about you!” Cried Cybele

“What are you talking about!?”

Ceres pulled out Cranes sword and knocked Cybele in the head with his end. She dropped in to a deep sleep.

**************************************************
****

When she awoke she saw men around her standing in a circle. In front of her stood a man with a bow and arrow in his hand. Beside him stood Craine with a mean frown on his face.

“I wanted to wait until Azure got here to kill you. But now I know you’re too dangerous and foolish to be trusted so I’ll have to kill you now.”

“But wait… tell me why you were going to kill me in the first place.”

“You’ll never know that answer.”

“Ok… then tell Azure that I love him..”

Nice to meet you too Cybele.

Wait… Azure?

In the flesh and spirit.

But where?

Right behind you but don’t look.

A startled look came across her face. She didn’t know what to do. She closed her eyes and waited for the arrow to hit her.

*****************************************

Suddenly a noise and a piece of wood stood in front of her face. Holding it was a hand and then an arm connected to that hand. She then saw a face. It was Azure stopping the arrow with a piece of wood. All the men starred except for Crane who looked at him with a smile of anticipation.

“Welcome Azure. So glad you could join us.”

“Charmed I’m sure.”

“Men grab him!”

A small arrow shot in the back of his neck. It sent him into a deep sleep.

“Don’t hurt him!”

“Its not him you should be worried about. Its you that should.” said Ceres coming from behind Crane.

Two men went over to Azure and picked him up. They started to walk towards the waterfall. Crane soon followed. He made a motion with his arm to the other henchmen all. Soon all of them gathered around the pole. All of them with torches in their hands. The first man on her left lit a small part of the woodpile. They all did this in order and ran away from the burning wood.

“See you later honey!” yelled one of the henchmen

They all laughed as they ran to their horses and rode to the waterfall. Ceres stayed behind and watched the wood began to burn. Soon the flames were about to touch her feet.

“Ya know I’ve always wondered what it would look like to see a pretty woman’s flesh burn.”

“I haven’t!”

Suddenly a horse jumped out of the bushes. It was lance riding her black horse. He looked around for water and then noticed a pail by Cranes tent. The horse rode over to the pail and Lance grabbed with his hand. He threw the water unto the fire settling down most of it. An arrow shot by his head. It was Ceres trying to kill him. She began to run straight to the horse. Lance grabbed a dagger from his side and threw it at Ceres. She dropped to the ground, dripping with blood.

“Yea I’m partially fine. Just wish you could of came sooner!”

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”

“That’s ok I guess.”

He ran over to the pole and untied the ropes. She was set free. She jumped off the burnt wood and onto the ground floor.

“You should be here. I think its best if you go.”

“No! I want to stay!”

“Take the horse and go! This isn’t the place for you. You can get killed!”

“So you think girls cant handle the jobs themselves huh?”

He picked her up and placed her on the horse. With that he set her off and the horse rode away from the scene.

__________________

Posted by Scarlet Rosenblade on 04-16-2002 07:39 PM:

The shadow of a man paced the hallways of Castle Rosenblade. Walking slowly through the corridors, his purple cloak flared about him, and his sword clinked at his side. Blond hair cropped short just barely hid his slightly pointed ears, and he displayed the emblem of the Ganian Royal Guard proudly upon his left breast. He passed by the taller eternal shadow, the Elwain's Asha cloak wavering about him, bending the light to misdirect all that would see him. Saeth sniffed the air. Something was wrong about that man, he turned about to look closer at the guard, but he was gone.

He made haste towards Til’Sylvanna's chambers, where Scarlet was to meet him. They had admitted the young man, Palin, and he had been given a room in the west wing of the palace, but he had asked to be left for a bit, and Saeth and Scarlet had honored is choice. As he rounded the corner, he saw Scarlet waiting impatiently. She was so human it was the least Saeth could do to smile.

"What kept you?" she asked indignantly after seeing the smirk on Saeth's face. She had recently had a clash of wills with her father and was in a slightly off mood.

Saeth laughed under his breath, "I was just taking my time… I had a short chat with the young one as well. Why must men be so impatient?" Saeth clasped Scarlet on the shoulder, and smiled again, "Come, the Lady awaits,"

Overcome with the desire to have the last word Scarlet sputtered, "I'm not a man!"

Pushing open the door, Saeth laughed out loud, shaking his head. She was a fiery princess warrior, and reminded him of Modros so much that at times, it was almost painful.

"Milady," Saeth dropped to his knee.

Til looked up at him and smiled slightly. She seemed to have aged... which was saying a great deal for an elf. Her sorrow for the loss of Nelcar was graven on her pale face, but there was a cold resolve there that would not be broken. Still, she looked well enough, and better than the last time Scarlet had seen her. She did not get out of the large canopy bed. Her trials with Archsummoner Al'Tyer had left her tired, though well. She knew that they would understand. Scarlet bowed as well, happy to see the White lady physically better.

"Hello, my friends," She said. There was an odd little smile on her face, like she was partial to a secret she did not share. "Where is Indigo Grei? I had hoped he would also come."

Saeth rose slowly, adjusting El'desh'ketai on his hip; "I have not seen him for several days, Til'Sylvanna..."

Scarlet answered quietly, "He hasn't left his room. I think he needs to sort his thoughts..."

She shook her head in understanding, and held Scarlet in her odd quicksilver eyes. All the weight of ages was in them, but kindness and compassion most of all. “I am sorry, my friend. I never meant to bring this burden to him, or to you. I would spare you if I could, believe me I would."

The Purple cloaked knight passed by another knight in the hallway, passing a small note to her. She wore a light breastplate, with the emblem upon it. Her hair was a deep black, and her eyes a fiery crimson. Unrolling the note, and reading it, she smiled, and the paper crumbled to dust...

Scarlet shifted her hair away from her face, "Don't blame yourself. None can control fate."

Til tilted her head slightly to one side, as if listening. A frown crossed her lips, and she arose, going over to where her clothing was stored. There was deliberateness in her actions, and she had yet to respond to Scarlet. Saeth could feel a deep concern in his Ward, and her preparation for something. Saeth sat comfortably upon the side of the large bed, looking in all directions. Fylorn'el'desh'meive glinted as it always did, refracting the light for a fraction of a second. Saeth's raven black hair blew gently from the wind entering the room, and he tilted his head to the side as if searching for something that wasn't there. Scarlet felt the slightest traces of unease. Something was happening that no one was quite aware of...yet.

The White Lady, with no modesty at all, took off her white gown, and donned the gray silk pants, dark blue dagger sleeved bodice, and white shirt in which she normally dressed. A look of concentration was upon her face, and she had not yet explained her odd behavior. She noticed the blush on Scarlet's pretty cheek, and realized it must have seemed odd for her to be so calm about changing before others. She smiled a little. "Forgive me. We Elwain are less... self conscious about such things than Humans. I apologies if I have made you uncomfortable.”

The Captain of the Guard, Xarou Vannemeyre, had returned. He had held a secret conference with all of the guards, and their orders were clear.

Captain Vannemeyre marched down the hallway, followed by a full dozen of his men. They all knew their duty, and what was to be done. A traitor was in their midst… Two of the men within the group also had another emblem upon their armor, that of the dedicated. Xarou had prepared this team specifically for this task...

To Saeth's mind she said, "There is a fellness there... Beware, I feel it close."

Saeth shook his head. Through the bond, "Is it not just a human? They are fallible, milady, and I have felt this for almost two days now,"

"No... there is something more... Something I have felt before... though only at a great distance. Keep close to the Princess... she is in grave danger I think."

"What's going on?" Fear began to grip Scarlet's heart, squeezing it tight.

Saeth moved to Scarlet's side. He had known that for some time, she had not been wearing her weapon. It was 'unsuitable' for a princess to act in such a manner. Scarlet sensed the exchange between the White Lady and her warder. She furrowed her brow in concentration, but she was unable to determine what they were discussing. Til'Sylvanna strapped to her back her two, paired elven Long Daggers, elegant fighting weapons long used by the Elwain. "I am not sure... Something fell this way comes. Have no fear, I could simply be over sensitive. It may be nothing." She smiled to reassure the woman, but to Saeth she communicated, "Be ready. We must keep her safe."

"Where is the Dolensirion?" The Lady feared also for him. While the Champions were not yet all Summoned, they were vulnerable to attack. If but one fell....

Saeth shifted uncomfortably from foot to foot. Slowly he escorted Scarlet and Til'Sylvanna away from the only door to the room. Tossing a glance to the window, he knew that jumping would likely mean a broken leg.

"Sir...please tell me, what's going on? Why are you both so afraid?"

Til'Sylvanna cursed herself for leaving her bow with her steed, but knew that it was too late now. She prepared in the only way she had left. She called upon the light within and wound a glamour about herself and the others. They would move faster than normal, and seem bright and terrible in the eyes of their foes. They were bathed in a silver glow that was the fire of the Elwain.

"A shadow stalks these halls... I was before too grieved to notice it. You are in danger."

"Huh?? From what? Who?"

She looked to Saeth. His fighting style was very much like that of Valerian, who was her teacher of old. They would fight in unison, like a dance of elven death if need be.

Scarlet's eyes widened in realization. Indy!!

"Indy!! He's all by himself!" Scarlet began to run forward away from the protection of the Elwain.

"NO." She said in a word of Command. "He must make his own way, we cannot help him now! We are in far more danger than he at the moment."

The 13 guards, men and women, stopped outside of the White Lady's chamber. Taking on a distinct formation, Xarou smiled. He felt the magic being worked within, and gave a nod to the dedicated, who wove their spell over half of the guard. Now only 7 men appeared in the hall, the women cloaked by the bending of light.

Xarou grinned once again, and stepped foreword to the door. Three sharp knocks followed.

Scarlet recoiled from the door, a sense of dread and malice descending over her like a flood.

Three more knocks followed.

Til'Sylvanna called upon all the grace and power of her ancient kind. "Mother grant me strength," she prayed.

"I say to thee... be gone fell spirit, for thou cannot come into the abode of the Elwain!"

Scarlet stood frozen in place...hypnotized by the knocks.

Saeth slowly drew El'desh'ketai from its scabbard and leveled it towards the door.

The elf maid drew the two long daggers, her movements catlike and graceful. She threw up a Ward of Light, but knew that it would not hold long.

Xarou twisted the knob of the room, sensing its lock in place, he drew his key ring. The key slid easily into the lock, and with a nod, he clicked open the door. Pushing against it, he felt that the door had been sealed. Focusing his own inner power, he picked at the weaves of the ward, cutting carefully with his own dark magics.

Til'Sylvanna came to stand beside the Princess.

"Be ready men, she will not likely come willingly. Kill her only if you must," Xarou clipped the last integral part of the ward, and the weave fell to pieces, the magical energy sputtering out in a dim flare of light. The door flew open, and Saeth stood defiantly in the center of the room, the women off to his side. Xarou calmly walked in.

Scarlet's heart nearly stopped at the site of the man who had held her captive so many months ago.

"No.....not you.." Scarlet screamed, "NO!!! YOU'RE DEAD!!!"

Til'Sylvanna, White Lady of the Elves stood calm and collected. She would protect her Star Sister, and she was not afraid.

"Hello Scarlet. How have the last few months treated you?" Xarou's voice was complacent, even pleasant.

She began to shake uncontrollably, her mind nearing shock.

Til’Sylvanna could feel the near panic ripping through her friend. She lent her what strength she could. " This shade cannot have you, I shall not let him. That I vow." Came the words of the elf in Scarlet's mind.

The White Lady's words reached her heart... but were unable to lessen her fear.

"Your priestly friend was kind enough to keep me alive. I do so love those that heal. Life is such a gift, it is not to be thrown away,"

Scarlet shouted, "That's not true!! You were killed by Caliph!"

"I believe his name was... Alex? Yes, that's right..." Xarou's finger rose to his lips.

The elven maid looked the Shadow creature in the eyes, silver glinting. 'Be gone, fell spirit. Thou hast no place here. This soul does not belong to thee."

Alex... the White One?

Saeth looked positively confused, but kept his blade held in position.

"Moon maid, please do not make this harder than it has to be," Xarou motioned with his left hand, and the six men advanced to his flanks.

"What do you want?!" Scarlet feared the answer.

Til’Sylvanna stood firm, blades raised. "I say; thou shalt not have her."

"Scarlet, you have been charged with the following: Accessory to attempted murder, Treason, and High Treason," Xarou's voice was mockingly uncaring.

Scarlet was speechless, her mind numbed by the confusion swirling within it.

"The King has ordered this be done. I conferenced with him no more than 15 minutes ago, so please, do not make this harder than it has to be,"

"That's a lie!!! He knows you're dead!!"

To Xarou the Lady said, " You lie."

A power deep within Scarlet began to rise in fearsome waves. Unbeknownst to her, her eyes flashed with a hellish light.

"He thought I was dead, just like you did, Perhaps your friend betrayed you. Perhaps he did what he thought was right,"

"I will not go with you. If need be I myself will kill you again!! Alex would not betray me!"

Xarou shook his head, "Why must you make this so hard?" It was then that a female soldier walked into the room.

To all but Scarlet, she appeared completely normal, but to the Princess...

"Reika...." Whatever resistance Scarlet had built against this attack was immediately felled by sight of her elder sister...

Saeth looked positively irritated by this beauacracy. He did not know what was going on, but he mumbled under his breath.

The Black Star... the foil of Scarlet. That shadow Til’Sylvanna had felt before. And it was dangerous to her.

"Scarlet. Listen to me. You must fight. Or we shall die. Please."

I can't fight her....I can't..... Scarlet's voice was in near despair.

The female soldier spoke, "Please, Princess Rosenblade, your father wished to see you. This is not a matter to be taken lightly, but I'm sure there's a perfectly good explanation,"

"If you come for her, you must take me first, servant of Shadow. I am not so easily quailed." There was a fire in the Lady, a desire for release. She longed to purge herself of her sorrow in the felling of these evil creatures who threatened her friend.

"Reika! Why are you acting like this! Why are you with, HIM!" She pointed to Xarou.

The dedicated male knight stepped foreword slowly, his blonde hair wavering slightly.

"He is my captain and lord. Why do you address me as the princess? I am of common blood..."

"Fight, Scarlet, or die. We have little other recourse."

"REIKA!!!!" Scarlet screamed as pain lit through her. She crumbled to the floor, clutching her head, desperately trying not to remember... NO!! It didn't happen! Reika would never hurt me!!!!

Xarou smiled, and gave the signal to attack.

Til’Sylvanna could not see what it was Scarlet saw... and knew it to be illusion, for the Elwain feel such magics keenly. However, she fell to her Star Sister’s side in a defensive stance, lending her what strength she could. "An'neia ken Dar leman! Deamma Ton'liel det! Eona" A sphere of protection surrounded the princess… but the Maid was nearly spent. She could cast no more without breaking her vow to Ezra... for in the dream she had greater power...

Saeth was first to act, stepping foreword and driving the hilt of his blade onto the head of one of the soldiers, barely being able to parry the following blows from three other soldiers.

It was then that the other six guards uncloaked themselves, spread throughout the room, blades drawn. Saeth now faced five opponents, and was already bleeding from several wounds.

Scarlet saw Saeth's peril and felt the Evenstar's strength...but she couldn't, she just couldn't…

The room grew darker, a seeming palpable darkness emanating from the dedicated male, who simply made an open palmed gesture towards Saeth, who was thrown from his feet and slammed into the adjacent wall at breakneck speed.

Til'Sylvanna took on the first man to reach her, blades buried deep in his chest. She parried a strike, and rolled under the next man's blade. He clipped her shoulder, but she carried through enough to wing him and with a kick to his nether regions, fell him.

Without warning a blazing heat began to pulsate within Scarlet and a new feeling, a greater power welled within her. The ring of Modros, the sacred heirloom shone like fire in her hand.

The male shifted his hand, and Saeth slid across the wall, slamming into a wooden curio, splintering the wood, and then sending him across the room again, slamming him into the corner.

'Champion of Air, I awaken thee!!!!!" Til called, as she fell below the weight of another man, and Saeth’s pain through the Bond. He was too far away for her to help… She thrust her dagger up into the soft of his unprotected belly and gutted him, throwing his weight off of her. She was tiring quickly...

Without a sound Scarlet drew in the air all around the enemy soldiers so that they were left to suffocate in a vacuum. None but three were left alive.

Saeth slumped to the floor, completely unconscious, and as the male laughed, he twisted his wrist, and Saeth's limp form was tossed from the floor, and out the third floor window, sending his unconscious body plummeting to the garden. The only indication of his landing was a dull thump.

”NNNNOOOOOOOOooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” Came The elf’s cry as she felt her Guardian hit the ground. Her body was racked with pain… her mind reeling under the impact of his fall.

Scarlet’s voice took on a dull roar, like approaching thunder. "STOP IT NOW!!!! I SCARLET ROSENBLADE COMMAND THEE!!!!"

Reika made her way towards Scarlet, as Xarou stood and laughed. The male dedicated grinned as his form shifted, and his true darkness was revealed. The man was not just a Vex.

"Andea... conmarna'sol... Endarseth keo shalin meath." Light struck Xarou from her scarred palm, and she fell to one knee. She had lost her daggers, and there was little left of her. Saeth’s pain continued to burn in her body, bringing tears to her eyes. Despair at the sight of the fell creature almost overwhelmed her. Til'Sylvanna had learned much of the darkness in her years of study, but had never wished to see a Vex, much less the darkest of the dark creatures. He was a Veri.

Scarlet grit her teeth as the smiling face of Xarou. "Go to hell..." With that she released the mass of air she had withdrawn directly at his head. Xarou was knocked backwards, off of his feet. Landing on his backside, he continued laughing as he got back to his feet.

" Seola! Anse dona!." She had slipped back into use of Elven and cursed the most vile of curses... She was also fading. She had to Dream... there was no other way... She had no strength left in the Waking World, the Dreaming was her only hope to help save her friends. In the Dream , The Lady stood bathed in White before Shadow. She stood behind Scarlet and placed her hands on the Princess' shoulders, bequeathing unto her all the power of the Dreaming, and the majesty thereof. They could see Scarlet bathed in radiant white, a power beyond mortality upon her.

The Veri reached into a belt pouch and produced a cigarette, lighting it with his finger, he puffed on it, "Miss Rosenblade, please, stop," His voice was cruel and magnificent all at once.

Scarlet felt she recognized the man...but from where?

'Who are you?"

"I am not here for you. Your pain is simply an added bonus. Xarou wished it, as did Reika. Yes, your sister does serve the shadow. Does that come as a shock to you, daughter heir? She was pushed aside because of you. You have caused her all of her pain. But you were happy, deluded by that, you allowed her to suffer,"

Scarlet felt the pain rip through her heart...

"I-"

Til fought it. "You have the strength..." Scarlet felt a guilt like her own in the light of the Lady... and the blood tears.

Reika smiled, a glint of happiness flashing across her face. "I hate you!"

"Reika..I-"

"Don't even start! You have no right!"

Reika's words stung her heart, crippling her.

"I just want you to suffer…Suffer like I did!"

"Please..."

Wading through the siblings, the Veri touched the limp form of Til'Sylvanna for but a moment, and his weave was complete.

"Don't touch her!!!!" Scarlet now ignored the voice of her sister and turned to protect the White Lady.

Til’Sylvanna’s Dreaming shattered in his horrible touch, and she came back to herself in a scream of agony.

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!" Her voice was raw with the pain of his Dark touch. It felt as if all the light of her soul were being ripped from her, rent asunder and consumed by the darkness.

She tried to sit up... and only managed an elbow. She took the Veri in her eyes and held him. Something... familiar? Something she knew.... but what? "Tell your Master... " The elf whispered in a broken voice as the blood fell to the Veri. "Tell him the Champions come, and the Light of the Dream will see his fall. Tell him I come."

Reika intervened between the Veri and Scarlet, "Scarlet, I cared for you! And looked how you treated me!" Reika said.

"REIKA! SHUT UP!!!!!!!! YOU HAVE NOONE TO BLAME BUT YOURSELF!!!" Scarlet was filled with rage. "You betrayed me Reika... And you betrayed our family!"

Reika looked at Scarlet with eyes filled with a burning hatred...and deep sorrow. "You will never know my pain Scarlet. You had it easier than I could ever hope for. I never told you what happened to me in Noit, did I?"

Scarlet only stared in silence.

"I was attacked by a group of men there just before I could reach the temple. They all took their turn, using me to satisfy them, then threw me into the temple. That's why I was cursed as a ...CAST!!!" Her voice trembled in rage and remorse. "Consider yourself lucky Scarlet... You've had an easier time than I had... for now," she added with a cruel smile. "Keep one eye open for me."

Scarlet was dumbstruck by Reika's confession... she had hidden it for all these years..

The Veri withdrew slowly, smoking his cigarette casually. Xarou walked to his side, as did Reika.

The Cigarette holding creature spoke once again, "The master's will is done. I do hope to see you all again, and Scarlet, you have to stop trying so hard. Justifying your actions for the rest of your life is going to be quite a task."

Tossing his cigarette to the floor, he laughed, "He knows what you plan, and henceforth I was sent. You shalln't have to worry about such things for much longer, Moon Maiden," Waving his hand at the cigarette upon the floor, the room burst into flame, carpet, bed and furniture all catching flame. They were gone.

Til could not rise. She was spent, and had no strength left. She could feel, ever so faintly, Saeth's heartbeat fading. She knew he would not last without assistance.. She looked to where Saeth had been cast out the window, and thought of how she would have liked to have died in his arms instead of across the room. She was sorry this was going to be the end... she had hoped for so much better for the world. She thought how she would have liked to have seen him smile... and tell him he was loved... she would have liked to see the Evisis once more... and her father... But, dying was not so bad… at least she would finally find peace. She had spent too much, and Saeth too. They had kept to their Vow, and this was their fate, she thought. The flames crept closer…

The air in the room quickly had become unbearable, and sweat glistened on all of its occupants. The flames licked at the moon maiden and Scarlet, but both were beyond the physical world.

"Til'Sylvanna...." Scarlet reached for her fallen friend

No! You can't die!!!

A last blood tear fell...

Through the mists of the dreamscape a blazing ruby ring came to rest in the White Lady’s hand

Take my power White Lady of the Elwain! LIVE!!!!

She could feel Scarlet pulling on her, but that was little to her fading mind. She would finally have peace... and see her brother. See him for real.

Please Til'Sylvanna!!!!

The red light glared in her dying mind like the sun. She shied away from it... she did not want to come back... but... but...

I won't let you die!!!! Came Scarlet’s frantic cry. Tears fell onto the Evenstar's face.

"Til..."

In her mind she heard the Red Star call her name... she had never used the shortened form of her name before...

A shock ran through Saeth's body, and he convulsed briefly. Railed back to consciousness by pain coming through the bond, he attempted to rise, falling back to the ground in unbearable pain as his knee folded backwards, broken under his own weight.

The ruby light held her, would not let her go... became a part of her...

Gritting his teeth, Saeth realized it had been broken before he even had tried to rise, and he began sending his last reserves of energy to Til'Sylvanna. It was his duty to die for her.

She felt... love? Love. Scarlet, Saeth. They loved her... she still had work to do... they loved her...

Making haste, Scarlet picked up the frail form of Til'Sylvanna and ran to the window. Flames leapt hungrily all about them, craving the flesh of the woman and the elf.

Til felt her warder's life fall to a flicker.. a spark.. nowhere near the bright flame that usually burned. And then though he was still there, he was but a candlelight compared to a campfire. Her warder was either dying or unconscious.

Then her awakening mind flared. Noooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Saeth!!!" Smoke began to billow through the broken window. Til opened her eyes to find Scarlet above her, sooty and bloody.

Seeing no movement from below, Scarlet gathered her courage and remaining strength and leapt out the window leaving the raging inferno behind. Concentrating harder than she ever had in her life she landed gently on the ground below, to safety, and collapsed in exhaustion.

"Saeth?" She croaked. "Saeth?" Til’Sylvanna closed her eyes again. Please... Creator please....

Saeth lay in the courtyard, is left leg bent at an impossible angle, blood creating a pool about his lifeless form.

The elf felt the impact of the woman's landing, which jarred her fully into waking. With what little strength she had, she crawled over to the Guardian. Castle folk came running as they saw the smoke and the figures lying in blood.

Scarlet looked up for a moment to see a few men running towards them across the courtyard, one of them was Master Tribune. She knew, if something could be done, he would do it… If there was hope, he was it.. Before losing consciousness altogether Scarlet looked toward Til'Sylvanna and smiled. "I won't let you die...so long as I live..." Then she fainted.

Til reached out and took Saeth's hand in her own. "You promised me you wouldn't leave me..." she called into his mind.

"You can't leave me... I love you." Her own words shocked her, but he did not care. He would die and it was her fault.

There was no reply from Saeth in Til'Sylvanna's eyes, but in the back of her mind, he faded back into existence, his heart weak, his breathing nearly nonexistent. He was alive, but as good as dead, and he had killed himself giving his life to her.

"I can't do this alone. You promised me you would not leave me! I... I... I love you, you damn fool. You and Nelcar both. Damn you for making me say it. I love you too..." Her tears fell onto his pale blood streaked face. She could not feel him... and could not find the strength to do any more than laid her head upon his chest and cry.

For love, a blood tear was shed... for love. And love alone could heal.

__________________

"When one forgets to put the emotions that overflow in her heart to rest, they burn the color of passion."

Posted by Indigo Grei on 04-16-2002 08:23 PM:

It awoke Indigo from a midday nap. He had finally accepted his destiny, and was about to seek Til's council when the commotion began.

Screams racked his mind, the screams of Scarlet, the screams of Til'Sylvanna. He attempted to reach out as he darted out the room and down the hall. He could feel the heat, and he was vaguely aware of flames, but not his own.

He rounded a corner and saw the flames leaping from the open doorframe. Without a thought for safety, he lunged into the room, dispelling flames, his mind reeling. Here and there, the flames pushed up from various parts of the room, and he extinguished them. The room was empty, but it smelled of smoke, and something fouler.

He saw the broken window and gasped, fearing the worst. He choked on the fire's foul exhaust and stumbled towards the window. He saw the commotion in the courtyard below and wrapped his jacket around his arm, clearing the wooden frame of the window. It was still dangerously jagged, but his fear for Scarlet and Til took over, and he leapt from the ledge, fire trailing behind him, almost as if the flames were drawn out the window after him.

He landed nimbly, scorching the grass around him (a side effect of the power?), and darted to Scarlet's side next to Saeth.

"Scarlet? Are you alright?"

She wrapped her arms around him, but did not respond...

Cue: Scarlet, or Til?

__________________
Is this a curse, or destiny? This fire could consume us all...

Posted by Tygan deParte on 04-16-2002 09:40 PM:

Tygan and Carla ran from the mansion, the whole time Tygan prayed Jyfe would be ok, but he knew better. They stopped when they came to a reasonable looking inn and walked inside, trying to compose themselves.

“Hello,” Tygan nodded to the innkeeper.

“Hel….by the creator, what the hell happened to you boy?” This caused a few people to glance their way, noticing that Tygan’s clothing was stained with blood in multiple places.

“Oh…ummm….heh.”

“We had a small run in with some thieves,” Carla chipped in.

“I can see that, looked like more than a run in.”

“You could say that,” not fully fond of the attention they were getting Tygan decided to get things moving, “We would like a room please.”

“Sure, anything else?”

“Actually yes, could you have some water and a tub brought up? Would like to get myself cleaned up when I get back from the market, going to get myself some new clothes.”

“Good plan,” the innkeeper laughed. He handed them a key, “First room on the right.”

“Thanks,” Tygan smiled then turned to Carla.

“I’m going to get washed up now, I’ll be here when you get back from the market,” she smiled then took the key and went upstairs.

“You two together?” The innkeeper asked.

“Ummm…..yes, yes we are,” Tygan smiled, it was the first time he had told anyone they were together, it felt great.

**********************************************
Tygan walked through the market glancing at the different stands; Fine clothes, jewelry, fish, fruits, maps, and clothing. He stopped at the clothing stand.

“Greetings sir!” The lady smiled, she was an elderly lady, and you could tell her smile was genuine and not the type most merchants give to look pleasing, “I take it you need new clothing?”

“Ah, you could see that too?”

“Haha yes I could and I think I have just the thing, mind taking off your hat?” She reached back into some baskets, searching for some clothing.

“Sure thing,” he took his hat off, he was going to miss it, it had been like a distinguishing feature to him.

“Ah yes, I have just the thing,” she pulled out some black leather pants, black leather boots, and a long-sleeve white shirt, “They are even the right size!”

Tygan looked the items over, surprisingly she walked up to him and held the clothes in front of him, as if viewing what he would look like in them.

“They are perfect!” Tygan liked it as well, even if he hadn’t he’d have bought them, she was so happy just by the thought of finding the right clothes, he would never want to ruin her joy.

“Yes they are, I like it,” he handed her a few coins, probably three times what the clothes were worth.

“You are too kind young man, thank you.”

“No, thank you, you saved me much time and now I won’t go around looking like hell,” they both gave a short chuckle, then he went on his way.

Now there was only one more problem, he looked to his weapons. The blue handles would no longer match his clothing and he was picky like that. In just one day he would be changing his entire look, his entire feel.

He walked over to the weapon store, and began to view the different blades. He stuck to looking at rapiers and daggers, since those were his weapons of choice.

“Can I help ya lad?” asked the smithy.

“Actually you can, I’m looking for a dagger and a rapier, preferably ones that match and that match this new clothing I got,” he held up the clothing.

“Ah, so black handles and steel blades?”

“That would be perfect!”

“Then it’s your lucky day,” he grinned. He walked to the back wall where weapons were lined up, and picked up two. They were in black sheaths, which made it even more attractive. The blades were much like Tygan’s current ones, except their handles were black and the rapier had a silver basket rather than a gold one, “These do lad?”

“They will do fine,” Tygan handed the man some money. He was almost out of cash, a fact that he was not too fond of. He was about to leave but the man stopped him.

“Boy!”

“Ya?”

“What will you name them?”

“Name them? What do you mean?”

“All great warriors name their weapons, if they have no name they have no spirit.”

Tygan thought for a moment, he had never considered naming his weapons, it seemed like a fairly good idea though, “I think I shall call the rapier Lun’delneth and the dagger……E’vnshaldar.”

“Lun’delneth and E’vnshaldar eh? Don’t think I could have done better myself,” he gave Tygan a strong pat to the shoulder, “You have fire kid, real fire.”

Posted by Til'Sylvanna Evenstar on 04-17-2002 11:54 AM:

Fallen Comrads...

Finrandel had been sitting in the Royal Library when he felt, more than actually heard, the cries of his kindred. He had felt for most of the day an odd sense of dread creeping upon him, but imagined that it was only his concern for his friends. The Lady was feeling better, or so Saeth said, but he had not seen Nelcar since the day before when he had left the room brooding.

When he felt the cries, he quickly sprang up from his seat and made his way to Til’Sylvanna’s room. There was nowhere else they could be. He remembered that Saeth had told him that they were meeting with some of the humans there to discuss what to do next. Something must have gone horribly awry.

He made his swift and silent elven way to the room of Til’Sylvanna, only to find it a wreck of chard wood and burnt stone walls. Guardsmen stood all about, and some near the window surveying some scene below.

“Get out, please,” he said quietly, though the power of the Elwain is such that all took note of him. “This is the room of the Evenstar and you are not permitted here. Please leave until you are called upon to attend here.” They did as asked, though not without odd looks at him. He did not notice, for he went immediately to the broken window. His heard tightened for he knew that he would not like what it was that he would find there.

All the folk of the castle, it seemed, milled about looking upon the fallen figures. The boy Indigo was there, holding his love Scarlet in his arms. She appeared to be unconscious. But that was not what worried him most. Lying in a dark pool of blood was Saeth Shen, the Lady unmoving at his side. She was alive, for Finrandel could feel her light, albeit dimly, but of the Esiai’desh’mirain… Finrandel did as Indigo had and jumped. Such is the grace of the elves that the jump was not very difficult for him, and he landed softly near Til’Sylvanna.

Indigo looked up at him from where he held the Princess. He looked over at Til’Sylvanna and back at Finrandel. “She will not let me near her, let alone Saeth. She won’t let anyone near him.” The look in the lad’s eyes told the elvenman all he needed to know. The boy thought Saeth was dead.

Finrandel walked softly to the maid’s side. At his approach she glanced up, a look of hopeless ferocity upon her dirty and bloody face. Her long silver hair was soot streaked and dark with Saeth’s blood. A deep gash scored her left shoulder, and that arm was scorched with a dark black welt of some kind. He sensed a fell magic at work there. Blood also stained her gray pants where she had taken some other wound.

Saeth did not move. His leg was bent at an impossible angle, and blood fell from a deep wound at his side. A livid black bruise marred his left temple, and he bled also from several smaller sword wounds. It took the Nish’talle A’diran a moment to realize that the Guardian was indeed alive, though he had but moments.

Acting quickly, he bent at the fallen elf’s side, and placed his hands upon Saeth’s side. He drew upon the light from within him and bestowed it upon his fallen friend. Long and tiring was his labor of healing there upon the cold stone of the courtyard. He forgot all those about him, save the Lady and Saeth. At one point he felt the Moon Maiden try to lend him some of her light, but she had none to spare. He felt her loose consciousness, but knew that she, at least, would live.

The humans did not dare to get too near. It was obvious that the elves did not want their aid, and indeed there was little that they could have done anyway. The onlookers could only shake their heads and wonder how something like this could have happened. Another thought crept also into their minds. What now? Someone had tried to kill the Princess and the Elven Ambassadors. What did it all mean?

Finally, Finrandel tied off his spell weave. He had painstakingly mended the shattered fragments of Saeth’s leg, but there were still shards of bone that could not be mended. Though the Warder would have full use of his leg, he would not ever likely be rid of the limp that could not be helped. Finrandel of the Evening Sky rose, and lifting the still motionless Saeth in his strong arms, turning to Til’Sylvanna where the once more awake elven woman sat at his side. She was dazed, hardly even aware of what was going on it seemed. Or perhaps she was in that place she so often went to escape the world. He did not know.

“My Lady,” he said softly. She looked up at him and struggled to rise. The Princess had long ago been taken to a place within the castle to rest, and the lad Indigo with her. Master Tribune, however, had remained in case the elves had need of him. He went to Til’Sylvanna’s side and assisted her, though she glared at him and shrugged him off the moment she was on her feet. Adamas shook his head sadly. This did not bode well. The last thing they needed right now was for the Niece of the Elven King to hate them.

To Adamas Finrandel said, “Please, I need to take them someplace safe to rest. She will not last long either if I do not tend to her, and I am already weary beyond compare. I have done all that is in my power to aid this one, though I do not have much hope for him.” Til’Sylvanna heard his words and a look of anguish washed over her face. She began to faint, but Master Tribune caught her before she fell.

He, carrying the nearly weightless Lady, and Finrandel with Saeth made their way back into the castle once more.

The sun was now setting… dark red in a bloody sky.

__________________

Darkness- a heart that knows not love.
Despair- a soul that knows love, and still dwells in Darkness.

Posted by Kaileigh Laeory on 04-17-2002 02:58 PM:

Northbound

Kai gazed north, where Reed was pointing. The sun, although low on the horizon, caused the sand to burn as though it was midday. The flimsy sandals that adorned her feet wouldn't last very long withthis kind of treatment.

By midday, Kai and Reed had made great time, able to reach the distant dunes near the edge of the desert. She had to give the pirates some credit, they did know how to hide. She couldn't help but wonder why they picked the Niklew Desert...They were pirates, not desert nomads. The sea was still far off.

Why on earth? This is too far out for full-blown pirates to hang out...

She shrugged this off as they reached the towering dunes. The massive forms of wind blown sand cast small shadows over the surrounding landscape. The shadows, unfortunatly, provided little escape from the burning sun, still high in the sky. Crawling under the escarpment, they managed to remain cooler beneath the tiny shadows.

"This isn't what I expected to encounter when I accepted your offer."

Reed offered no supply, he just nodded and took a sip from his dwindling water supply. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, the shadows stretched out farther, allowing Kai and Reed to stretch out, enjoying the cool stretch of no sun. By late afternoon they took up whatever they had with them and made off towards the north, nibbling on what they had left of the bread and cheese, avoiding drinking the water.

"Hey look. There is something other than a sand dune out there. Is it just me or do they look like a small army of people?"

"Its not just you. I think we have discovered the main camp of pirates. These are most likely not as dehidrated as the others. It'll be more of a challenge. You up?"

"Sure. But if any of us get killed, its all your fault."

Reed grinned and nodded as they moved silently through the shifting sands, ducking behind whatever large object they could. Stubby trees dotted the landscape and provided more protection as they moved towards the pirates, walking north as well.

"Why are we hiding if they are actually facing north?"

"Cause we didn't know they were heading in that direction." Replied Reed

"I guess that works."

They ceased their darting from tree to dune to rock and followed the pirates in open sand...

Posted by Bara Chinder on 04-17-2002 03:41 PM:

Heading north

Bara rode a distance ahead of the other three companions. Enda and Aodhna were in an indepth conversation about The tribe at war and conchuir was listening quietly.

Bara said little enough at the best of times but at the moment he was saying nothing. Conchuir decided to see if he could help. He spurred his horse forward to catch up.

“I don’t want to talk.” Bara snapped.

“I think you have to, really. We have to discuss strategy. You’re the one who knows the Laimh, I would be lost.” Replied Conchuir.

“ I cant talk to them. They will not listen to me.”

“They will listen to a warrior. They should.” Conchuir added somewhat optimistically.

Bara brought him down to earth. “They will not listen to a crois bui. Never. I cant be seen.”

“You keep your face hidden. As long as you can. If we go to rysend you can stay out we will try ourselves. You can tell us what to say.”

Rysend, the word echoed through his mind. If he were to go back? If he saw it again. Then What? He would never be redeemed to his father. Not now. Not with this on his face.

Bara just rode his mind lost in torment. This was going to be a hard few days.

By sundown they were already in the kinlands of the Laimh Dearag.

__________________
Were gonna break ya, its gone on for too long.

Gonna punish you for the things that youve done- Capdown

Posted by Til'Sylvanna Evenstar on 04-17-2002 06:59 PM:

A Prayer... A Plea...

She drifted in and out of the dark sleep… sometimes hearing voices… sometimes almost aware of what was going on. Who was that crying…? Then she realized that it was her own voice that she heard for so far away from herself.

What is happening to me? Her whole body felt as if it were on fire… she was on fire! No wait… she was cold… so cold.

So cold… so cold… so cold…

And alone.

Help me!!!!!!!!!!! How is that no one can hear me? Am I dead?

No… but I almost was…

How is it that I am not dead?

Scarlet… that’s right. She felt the warm ruby light that would always be a part of her as long as the Red Star lived.

And…

Saeth!!

That thought jolted her fully awake. She came to her senses all at once, screaming in pain. Her whole body cried out in agony from the pain of her burns… her battle taken wounds… and most the black brand where the Veri had touched her.

Oh merciful Creator! It hurts!!!! She cried to herself as she clutched at her left arm. It was so cold to the touch… cold… cold…

And then a wave of nausea hit her. Her head… she was burning up…. Burning… burning…

In the dark of the morning, in that still and silent hour before the dawn, Til’Sylvanna’s fever broke. She opened her red bloodshot eyes and stared up at a strange ceiling. She could feel nothing. Nothing at all.

“My Lady,” came the soft voice of Finrandel. He had been at her side as she slept, keeping watch over her in Saeth’s place.

“Go away.”

“My lady?” He sounded very hurt. “I cannot do that. You are hurt grievously, and the Esiai’desh’mirain too. I cannot do as you ask.”

“Go… away.” She continued to look up at the ceiling.

He withdrew silently, taking a seat near the far side of the room at a window.

Til’Sylvanna sighed. She painfully turned her head to her right, and saw the still form of Saeth Shen in a bed next to hers. Immediately the tears welled up in her eyes… she remembered.

She carefully pushed herself up into one elbow. Her left arm, it seemed, was useless, and the right one wounded badly by a foeman’s sword. Still, she boar the pain, for nothing could keep her from the side of her Warder.

She slid off the bed, wincing as her bare feet touched the cold floor. All physical sensation hurt… and a wave of nausea almost laid her low. Still she fought it and remained upright. She pulled Finrandel’s chair over to Saeth’s bedside and sat down. Even that small effort had made her horribly dizzy and she had to take several deep breaths to get her bearings back.

The elf woman took his cold hand in her own, though not the left. That one burned her with a cold fire that was slowly making its way to her heart.

He yet lived… but only his body it seemed. She could not feel the spark of his fire. Her tears began once more and she laid her head on his chest weeping.

She wept long… and her hatred for those that had caused this fell thing grew until she could take it no more.

“Bring me the King. Now.” She said to Finrandel. He left and did as she bid, in fear of her dark mood.

The White Lady sat at the side of her Guardian. She still had not changed her burnt and bloodstained clothing. As the King entered she made no movement at first.

She let him stand there for a long time before she said anything. At long last she looked up. Silver hair framed her deathly pale face, and her eyes were red from lack of sleep and crying... or was it something more? For a long time she simply held him in those odd pale eyes, a look of furry and despair on her face.

"How many of our brightest soul will you take, human King? How many of the Salurion must fall to save your pathetic kingdom ere it is enough?" She whispered the words, but they were like knives. If she was beautiful in her kindness, she was terrible in her quiet anger.

"Long ago did my Queen Aunt fall coming home for this City... she was here for the sake of her human friend. Brave Valerian fell to get me here... here to deliver a warning you IGNORED!!!! And now Saeth Shen, bright soul of Honor lies here still. I count his breaths, for greatly do I fear that a time soon shall come when they cease. Tell me, when shall it be enough? Even your own daughter?" She spit the words at him. "You are lucky I love her as I do, or I would call upon the armies of the Dawn to raze this city into the dust. It is love of her that you still live." The elf was cold in her bitterness. For the first time in her life, she knew hatred.

Eremon's eyes flashed. "Enough! I have not ignored your warning!"

"YOUHAVE!!!!" She screamed. "You disbelieved the words of your own daughter! And warning of mine that the agents of Shadow would come! They stalked your very halls... AND WITH YOUR CONCENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"I would not sacrifice my own daughter, nor those she holds dear! Your warning has caused a great duress amongst my people. What sort of man would I be if I believed every tale of doom from passing vagabonds?!"

His brow knitted in momentary confusion and his voice softened. "With my consent?... Pray explain this to me."

She smiled coldly and recoiled like a viper. "Vagabonds? I am the Heir of Prince Linfell... to the very kingdom of the Elwain. And you would call me... vagabond?" She was boiling with cold furry. “It has been a thousand years since we have come to the lands of thine... and you would have the nerve to... to dispute my word!?!?!"

"What would you do in my place? What if it were I who came to you with tales of woe? What would you do?'

"I would have the wisdom to see the truth!" She said coldly and with great haughtiness.

"It was your dark Knight Xarou who came to take the Princess... he and his even fouler companions. They almost killed me, but for the great grace and love of your bright daughter."

"What are you saying? Scarlet herself told me he was dead!"

"HE IS!!!! Yet he came with your command to take her captive. Why is that?" The Lady was more angry than she had ever been. This human was more than she had the desire to deal with. He was a fool... and was lucky she loved Scarlet as a sister; else he would not have remained long standing.

"You tell me. I have no knowledge or recollection of him ever addressing me. I don't expect your belief in this, but I swear it is true. Why would I send him of all people after my own daughter?"

She paused for a moment regarding him. "Come here." She said flatly.

"What is it you want?"

"Come here." She held him in her eyes and did not elaborate.

Though anger still poured off of her in powerful waves, Eremon did not fear it. He came to stand by the White Lady's side.

She put her hands on either side of his head, wincing at the pain in her newly stitched shoulder wound. He noticed a livid black brand on her left arm... and the grayness of the pale skin around it. She looked him in the eyes. For a long time she said nothing, then at last let fall her arms. "I am sorry. You are right, for I feel no falsehood in you. Forgive me."

"He must have used Shadow magics to fool you... and thus you were an unwitting tool. I am sorry for my harsh words."

"Forgive me, Lady of the Elwain. Though I did not ignore your warning, I did not readily accept it, and I've caused you and Scarlet great pain."

As she had found the truth, the anger with which she had been sustaining herself melted. She was small, and tired, and void of hope once more.

He sighed, his eyes clouded with pain for his daughter. "I feel as though I've failed her, for her entire life."

"All fathers feel so for their daughters, even mine." She had lost all of her passion and was speaking very softly once more.

"Your daughter saved my life. I owe her a great debt... and so do you."

He nodded. "She's unreachable now. Lady, what happened? I've not been informed of any details."

Til'Sylvanna shook her head, despair threatening to overwhelm her once more. "I... I cannot. Not now. You must go to her... Tell her that you love her. Accept the boy Indigo, for in him is the fate of your Kingdom and your beloved daughter vested. You must tell them...” her last words were little more than a whisper, "for you may never get another chance. Dark is fate, which takes the ones that we love."

She turned from him, her only attention now for the still elven warrior lying on the bed before her.

Not wishing to press her any further, Eremon bowed and left her chambers. He would seek Indigo later. But for now he would see to taking every precaution that his daughter and the Elwain would be safe.

She wept long for Saeth Shen… and for herself. She felt no hope within herself. No reason to go on. All that she had fought for was in ruin, and all that she loved lost.

“You said that you would not leave me… you gave me your word. I did not give you leave to die. Not yet. Oh Saeth!” Her voice was broken by her sobs. “Please… please come back to me. I need you… I… I…”

“I love you.”

Finally she prayed…prayed for the life of Saeth Shen… prayed for his safe return… for his life… her life.

“Great Light, mover of all that is moving and at rest, please hear the plea of your most wretched servant. I beg you for the life of Saeth Shen, noble soul who doth here lay still. He who is most true and loyal, brave and kind, honorable and steadfast. All the days of his life he hath served you, and your first children. He has not loved for himself, but always for others. He has not thought for his own life, but for those he protects. He has given of himself and asked nothing in return. I now ask for him… and for myself.

“I love this elf. He has shed his blood for me, and given of his light that I might live. Please, Mother who gives life to all things, great Light of Mercy, please spare him. Please. He is my strength… he is my hope… he is my soul. I cannot live if I have not him beside me, and no more can I take the burden of your great quest if he were not with me. I beg you to return him to me, that he might live to see love. He, who has forsaken it for the service of others. He has given everything; let him receive just this once. Let his long millennia of sacrifice be not in vain. Let him live… please.

“Great Light, mover of all that is moving and at rest, let him be my journey, and my far destination. Be my want and my fulfilling. My sowing and my reaping. My glad song and my stark silence. Let him be my sword and my strong shield, my lantern and my darkest night. Let him be my strength and my weakness, my greeting and my parting prayer. My Vision, and my blindness, my Joy and my sharp grief. Please… let him be my sad death… or my sure resurrection.”

__________________

Darkness- a heart that knows not love.
Despair- a soul that knows love, and still dwells in Darkness.

The time now is 03:58 AM.

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# posted by Staab : 3:06 PM

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Asheri Rising

Tuesday, January 11, 2005

Rune Aeterna 14

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