[PDQ] The Grand Mythos Game Thread

Floris2123 · Feb 9, 2013

Melanthios 27 AP, 1 MP

Melanthios felt the hindrance in his shield stop, he even felt M'endar helping him. He was fairly certain the shield would be made, unless someone else interfered. "Ah, there you are! Heh, was wondering where you had run off to."He stood up from his sitting position and looked at him. He took off his robe and revealed a new appearance, along with a new face. "Greetings Nivix, I hadn't fled or anything. I was just busy preparing everything for our fight, now if you will join me I have found an excellent spot for us to fight."

Melanthios teleported himself to the uninhabited and smallest continent on Salustutis. It was a giant desert, only used to test the newest weapons of the Dues Filli on. He looked at the two giants, which had been prepared for him and Nivix. "Children, I am back and happy to hear that all of you are fine. I however have a favor to ask... Nivix wants to fight alone.. But he has killed our people, and desecrated the throne without a reason. It is time we show him, just why family always wins. I ask you all to come to me, completely invisible when I call. I will call soon, until then prepare yourself." Melanthios turned to Nivix. "As promised, something to spice up our fight. What do you think?" He smiled, he had became much better in faking emotions.

Sending a message to Valerie, Maeglin, Akladai.
Difficulty=effortless.

Maeglin 8 AP

"And this is why we hate these gods! This is why our books tell of awful different gods, because these people abuse their power! They use it to oppress and kill us whenever they want, this is why we reject so many gods! Father Melanthios was the one who made us, and the one who had been protecting us for so long!" The crowd in front of Maeglin were all shouting and yelling for more. He grinned to himself, that dumb Nivix had no idea how much he had actually helped them. He turned around and walked back inside, he grabbed Amour and sat down on the throne. He began playing music, the beautiful melodies began to fill the room.

"Children, I am back and happy to hear that all of you are fine...I will call soon, until then prepare yourself." Maeglin stood up smiling, he was getting his revenge on Nivix without him knowing? He laughed loudly, and headed towards his private studies. He practiced his special tune one more time. He turned invisible and waited while practicing, Nivix would fall and he would be one of the people responsible. His father sure did make things more interesting, it had been a bit boring without him.

Akladai 8 AP
Akladai was walking in the library, he noticed a few new books. It appeared that even in his weakened state, Melanthios had not stopped writing his books. He glanced through a few, there were about quite interesting things. He placed the books back and took a eat on one of the chairs... I wonder where she is... Did I make the right decision in not helping her?...Then again nothing I can do now. "Children, I am back and happy to hear that all of you are fine...I will call soon, until then prepare yourself." Fighting Nivix? Well that would be fun, he had wanted to give that fool a beating for a while now.

Valerie 8 AP
Valerie was judging another soul, it had been one of the duties which she now shared with Akladai. A mental message suddenly entered her mind. "Children, I am back and happy to hear that all of you are fine...I will call soon, until then prepare yourself." He was alive? Her uncle was still alive! Tears began running down her face, she had been living in tension for the last 1000 years. "Uncle..." Her tears of joy began to stain the book she was holding about the newest souls. She placed the book on the table and stood up, she was smiling brightly. "I will not fail you uncle, and defeating Nivix will be fun."

Dogmatic99 · Feb 9, 2013

Zareth 30 , 2

Minas Kei seemed to be doing well, Zareth thought to himself as he lounged on one of the palace spires. Granted it had taken the cleaners a while to remove all the lightning scorches but the city got back to its old colorful self.

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Zareth grimaced and blinked hard, driving the noise out. He took on one of his usual bird forms and fluttered down to street level. Pentar had done a good job, the Ekiruru inhabitants seemed to be thriving under this new way of life, now that they were off Eldarwen's leash.

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"Oh shut up." Bird Zareth grumbled. He scanned the bustling market streets, street side churches and shrines had started springing up all over the place. He wondered if the Stryfe would ever make organised religion, the story stones were nice and they showed a good knack for masonry. The carvings were always charming. True a group of mortals had made him a villain (AGAIN!) but at least he was an interesting one this time.

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He ruffled his feathers in irritation. No, he wouldn't do it, not this time. He wouldn't rise to it. He flew down the street, taking in the sights and indulging in his architecture hobby. All the others had such nice temples and buildings of worship, why didn't he have that? The best Zareth ever got on Evalon was a wayside shrine or a token charm in an undertakers. He really had let his presence slip and after so much hard work. And he'd come a long way since being portrayed as a spider under a leaf. Then he remembered the mosaics in the temple of life and death on Eld. Now that was fancy, he really had to go back there at some point.

But Minas Kei was a city of trade, full of countless cultures.

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"Oh damn stupid-" Then he noticed the Rowan child staring at the grumbling, cussing crow. "What?" He squawked, before flying off.

There were people of almost every race and creed in this city. He could find people to inspire and 'guide' into making him an official church. Maybe he'd get priests. "Maybe Mel can help me find them some fancy robes!" He flapped his little wings excitedly.

It took a few days but he found the right candidates. After some ethereal whispers and a few 'dream transplants' the seeds of inspiration. After practicing on a few locals he went about finding a few traveling merchants who would take their god given mission to their home countries. Dwarfs, Lanir, Rowan and even a few Verr he found performing on the street.

"I hope someone puts stained glass in one of them."

OooOOooh spirit bring fourth-

"Oh that is it! They've been at this off and on for nearly a week!"

And in a howling whirl of dark mist and fury Zareth flung himself towards the source of this nuisance. He appeared in a dimly lit cave, in front of a scraggly dressed Stryfe. In his anger he led out a burst of power and the the wind flicked up and the cave walls cracked... and the unfortunate Stryfe withered and aged to death within a second, leaving only a pile of dust and a terrified looking spirit behind.

It stared at Zareth in fear and after a brief moment of confusion Zareth calmed down and took a deep breath. He looked back at the quivering ghost. "I regret nothing." he said flatly. The spirit's ethereal knees phased through each other. "Go on! Off with you!" He shouted, waving it off.

The cave was filled with charms and twisted writings. Along with bits of corpses. "Brilliant." Zareth sighed. "Death Callers, I thought they wiped you lot out."

Unfortunately it seemed that the necromancers in the ice had survived their persecution and were looking to make a comeback. "The Kalds had better watch out." He said to the cave in general. "And I better get Erik back on the project, I didn't put up with this background noise when the Filli got into it, I wont do it now."

Inspire a small group of mortals (less than 50) for life: Inspire a collection of people from all the major races on Evalon to go to their home cities and begin preaching/building an organised church of Zareth.

AP2 DC7

+6 Death (Cus...y'know... it's a death church.... for the death god.)

Pappytech · Feb 9, 2013

Nivix- 30, 2

"Greetings Nivix, I hadn't fled or anything. I was just busy preparing everything for our fight, now if you will join me I have found an excellent spot for us to fight."

"You found a spot?" the madman asked. "Wait a... I spent the past thousand years building an entire world so we could fight!"

Grumbling, Nivix followed Melanthios through the aether. There was no way in hell this new spot could possibly compare to his new planet.

"As promised, something to spice up our fight. What do you think?"

Still, he had to give the bastard points for style. No doubt about that.

"Eh, not bad, I suppose." Nivix idly examined the titanic machines, noting their impressive stature and strength, as well as few flaws in their design. "Could've built better ones myself, naturally.

"But anyway," he continued, tearing open a rift between Salustutis and his latest project, "come on, let's go. I'm not letting all of my hard work go to waste just because you want to fight here at home; bring along your toys if you want, but let's get going, alright?"

As he began to walk into the portal, the chemister paused, a half-forgotten thought striking him. "Oh, and I guess we should also discuss rules of engagement, shouldn't we? How do you want to do this; one on one, or with back-up? Items or no? Tap-outs allowed?"

Arrogancy · Feb 10, 2013

Vantric and Aen

The Grand Ascension had countless spires thrusting toward the heavens, or rather, the mortal realm. Upward, at any rate, whether that distinction meant much in the Hallowed Court. They had been designed to be imposing as well as practical, practicality being foremost on the mind of the architect. Some of the towers held secret laboratories, others arcane lore that could help unravel the mysteries of being, and some, darker things that none have seen and survived. One, in particular, held something much more mundane. Two figures hunched over a small table in a comfortable, well-lit room.

"Queen Rook to C3!" Aen said a little louder than necessary. Vantric might be a god skilled at strategy, but chess was battle, and they had enchanted the pieces to make it a bit more interesting to play. He watched as his rook marched over to the place he had called out. If things went his way, he'd have it charging into his opponent's back lines to cause some havoc.

Vantric looked down at the board, watching the piece move to its new position on the board, then looked at his opponent. Aen had managed this game well enough, so far, better than he had expected, but the game was already nearing its end, even if his opponent couldn't see that. "A bold move." He commented, "Though a bit blunt. Pawn to B5." The tiny soldier marched forward. Aen could fight all he wanted, he'd win the game in the end. "I love pawns. Efficient, dependable, and expendable."

Aen scowled. "It's tough to use pawns. What's the point of a victory if you lost everything to claim it." He thought for only a moment before charging in. "Rook to C7! Rooks are much more to my liking. Mobile and strong, and hard to kill."

The rook steadily advanced down the board, a gliding citadel. It came to a halt right before Vantric's bishop. Even Aen wasn't foolish enough to take his bishop when he would only lose his rook the following turn. Or maybe he just wasn't smart enough to. He smirked. "They are powerful pieces, but too direct for my liking. You always see the attack from a rook. Always. Pawn to A4. Attack." Vantric's pawn jumped up and charged Aen's pawn, shield thrust forward. The two pieces engaged in a brief duel before the white pawn was knocked off the board, lifelessly standing on the sidelines.

Aen sighed. Now he had to make a move he would likely regret, especially after having just lost one. Still, Vantric was right. Loss was necessary for victory. "Pawn to B3." Then he whispered "Brace yourself."

Vantric raised an eyebrow. Interesting, he hadn't thought Aen would use his pawns much after getting out some of his more powerful pieces. This was surprising, but not unmanageable. "Pawn to B3. Attack." Another brief duel ensued, and again, Vantric's pawn was the winner, pushing the loser to the side before claiming the square. "The pawn is the deadliest piece on the board if used properly."

Aen reconsidered for a moment. Perhaps he should focus on removing the enemies forces while Vantric was busy playing with pawns. "Rook to C6." The Rook slid back into place quickly, lining itself up with the enemy on Knight and Queen.

Vantric smirked. Aen was fishing for moves, and he wouldn't give him any to work with. The plan was perfect, he only needed on more move to bait it. "You'll find that trying to savage my defenses won't end well. I'm prepared. Pawn to B2." The obsidian soldier marched forward once more. Perfect. "I'm surprised you haven't relied on your knights more, Aen. A great warrior like you, and a unique piece like that." Vantric commented, tapping Aen's captured warrior, "But then, that didn't work out so well for you last time, did it?"

Aen took the bait. "Knight to G6!" The horsemen charged forth, unhorsing his rival and claiming his space as his own. The horse whinnied happily, stamping in place before finally settling down. He smiled at Vantric. "Your move."

Vantric tried to hide his smirk. Aen had assured his victory. "Bishop to A6." The robed piece made a quick, dignified stride toward its space opposite Aen's own bishop. Were he playing against anyone else, Vantric would have been worried that the move was too obvious, but Aen was focused on the kill, not the game. "Now, that is a piece for me." Vantric said as the bishop settled. "A very subtle mode of attack, and perfect under the right circumstances."

"Bishops are too indirect. Your opponent should know that you are coming." He barely took a moment before barking out new orders. "Knight to H8!" Still full of battle-lust from it's last fight, the piece charged right in and trampled the Rook underneath it.

Game, Set... "Queen to H8." Vantric ordered. The Queen turned about and marched, beating the knight aside with her sceptre. "This game is nearing its end."

Aen grinned. "You're right. Queen to H8." The queen moved slowly but surely, and brutally removed Vantric's queen from the board.

Match. "A poor move, Aen. Pawn to C1." The soldier made one last advance, forcing back Aen's bishop. As he took the square, a strange light enveloped the piece. "In the right position, the pawn is the deadliest piece on the board." There was a flash, and in its aftermath, Vantric's queen was back on the board in the position his pawn had occupied a moment before. It turned and faced Aen's king, thrusting its sceptre forward. "Checkmate."

While at first shocked, Aen's face broke out into a grin and a laugh. "Ah, I suppose this game is most definitely where you shine. I'd be better off as a piece on a board than controlling it all like a king."

Vantric smiled, then began a laugh himself. "We all have our strengths. Good match." He offered Aen his hand. It was strange that Aen took defeat so affably, but then, a lot of Aen's actions caught him off-guard. "Perhaps next time you can pick the game."

"I hear the mortals have developed a lovely game based around the shoes of a horse, though I'm not entirely sure how it is played."

"Horse shoes? People make shoes for horses?" Vantric shook his head. Mortals can't exist with them, and can't enlighten them without serious amounts of brainwashing, and where was the fun in that? "Anyway, I'll talk with you again later. I have some business to attend to."

Aen nodded. "Right. Feels like we've been cooped up in here for a couple of ages, though I seriously hope it hasn't been that long." Aen showed himself out, laughing at his own joke under his breath the whole way.

Vantric got up and exited the tower. Just outside the door, leaning against the wall, was his apprentice Isond. The god nodded to him.

"You know, I play chess roughly 10 times better than he does." Isond remarked, following Vantric down the winding staircase, "Why do you still play with him?"

"Because he's a more interesting opponent." Vantric replied, "Is there anything else you wanted? Other than asking my choice of gaming partners, that is?"

"I thought you'd want to know that things are still on schedule. Events should be moving along quickly from here."

"Good. I'll take over from here." Vantric told his apprentice, "I'll keep you updated as need dictates, though you should be the first to know when events unfold."

For the first time, Isond smiled at Vantric's orders. "Well then, I'll take my leave sir." He said, disappearing down one of the various side-corridors.

At that moment, Melanthios's voice echoed through Vantric's mind. "Greetings friends and allies, it has been a while and I apologize for vanishing so suddenly. I am afraid I had underestimated my wounds, and spend the last 1000 years recovering. I know I have no right to ask this off you, but I humbly request your help with creating a shield around Salustutis. I simply wish to defend my planet from outside attacks, and ensure that my race is safe."

He smiled, I can help with that. Vantric summoned his powers, shielding Salustutis, not only from attack, but also from the prying eyes of others, though there would also be a bit of self-serving going on. It wouldn't do for his services to be completely without benefit.

Assist Melanthios: +4 Secrets (Shielding Salustutis from the eyes of others [leaving an ability to see through to the plane properly for Vantric, though])

drmigit2 · Feb 10, 2013

Roe/Cassiel 30,2

Cassiel was floating in the darkest reaches of space, he had been for quite some time now, almost 1000 years. The visions he had seen were haunting him still. The future apparently was bleak to say the least. He shook his head, he would have to fight it. The other gods would have to unite against...whatever it was. The first one to come in his mind was Roe. Perhaps the child knew more about the portal. Anything would be helpful. Cassiel flew towards Evalon at breakneck speed. Roe naturally would be there and he could feel the presense of his fellow god. The angel stopped just in front of the god of childhood, bringing a hurricane with him. "Roe! Stop! This is urgent, we need to talk immediately!"

"Huh?" Roe was standing on a high building, staring down at tiny shapes moving across the courtyard below. He turned with surprise to see Cassiel behind him. "What is it?" he asked in alarm.

Cassiel was out of breath now, he was speaking between deep sighs. "I...looked in the portal. Scanned the whole thing...what I saw...You need to tell me everything I know about it right now. The fate of the universe is at stake here."

Roe looked quizzicality at Cassiel and wracked his brains for all that he knew about the portal.

"Eh... there's one in the garden in Hallowed Court and one in a tall mountain on Evalon," the young god recounted, "They are quite big and sometimes monsters come out of them. Ailish was a monster too and that made me sad."

"Roe. I think something is controlling it, I don't know what, but it talked to me. It might want to kill us. I don't know what that realm is, but we might need to go there at some point soon. I don't want to go alone, are you in?"

Roe gulped and unconsciously reached for the pistol stowed in his belt. He looked up at Cassiel.

"Will there be monsters in there?" he asked.

"Worse."

Cassiel put his arm on Roe's shoulder. "I won't lie, if we go in there the two of us, we would probably die. That's why I want to bring Aen and possibly Nivix. Can you think of anyone else?"

Roe thought for a moment and then suddenly nodded eagerly. "I know, I know! Melanthios and Daare are planning to go there too sometime, could they come with us?"

Cassiel thought for a moment, Melanthios wasn't trustworthy, but the portal would be a bad place to betray each other. "I don't know much about Daare, but I don't have a problem with him coming. Melanthios though...if Aen and Nivix wouldn't try to get him killed I don't see a problem with it."

"Melanthios and Aen are friends now after the meeting," Roe said happily, "it sound fun even if it might be a bit scary. When are we going?"

"Once everyone is ready. It might not be for another age but I don't want to wait too much longer than that. If we don't get the jump on whatever lives there, it might get the jump on us." It was as he said that, that Cassiel heard an ear piercing howl from Nivix.

"MELANTHIOOOOOOOOOOOOOS! COME ON, LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!"

Cassiel shook his head, Nivix was going ahead with this anyway. He sighed and figured he should watch to ensure both come out of this alive.

"I am going to watch Nivix. Mind helping?"

Cassiel used the same method as with his portal scanning ball, only this time, he wasn't hoping he was sure he wouldn't like what he would see.

"Okay," Roe replied with a sigh, "I'm going to stay here though, I've got something to do,"

"Fair enough, one of them might die though. If you need help, don't hesitate to ask."

The young god raised a hand and added his chaos to the spying orb, setting it alight. He gave Cassiel a grin.

"It's much better now!"

Cassiel looked at his giant fireball and laughed. "Crazy sprites might end up actually setting things on fire at this rate! Thanks, I will try to make sure they both come out of this in one piece."

Roe had no idea what Cassiel was talking about but he didn't have time to find out more, a carriage surrounded by guards had just pulled into the courtyard, it seemed like what he had been waiting for had arrived.

"Bye!" Roe waved to his fellow god and then placing Skye back in his belt, focused his mind on the task ahead.

Cassiel decided that he would allow a few other gods to watch it, in order to ensure he had backup if anyone did something off.

"Hey guys, in case you wanted to watch the battle, I scryed them. It should be interesting."

In front of Zareth, Aen, and Pentar appeared a glowing ball of magma. If they touched it, they would see everything the sprites saw.

Scry Nivix and Melanthios. Able to hear and see everything around them. DC13

+6 Bravery (One does not simply scry Nivix without being brave.)

+1 Fire (Fire sprites.)

+6 Chaos (They are fire sprites, might accidentally set something on fire.)

Send a message to Aen, Pentar and Zareth, they can see the scry if they wish.

Arrogancy · Feb 10, 2013

Isond and Aryx

Isond marched through the corridors of the fortress, several bottles in his arms. Vantric had given him a temporary leave, and he would take full advantage of it. The alcohol wouldn't be missed much anyway. He made it back to his room, and kicked the door shut. The bottles he stood on the desk. He took a moment to look over his small room and the changes that had come over the last age.

Most of the antiquated weapons were still on the walls, swords, spears, crossbows; however, now rivaling them were newer, more modern weapons. Rifles, pistols, machine guns; his personal collection of weaponry was growing, expanding to every nation and peoples. His old chest had been exchanged for a more modern bureau, but the greatest change was to himself. Isond stood for a moment, straightening his uniform in a nearby mirror. He had abandoned his old armor, though that had pained him. Instead, he now wore a Impath officer's uniform, dark blue with silver buttons.

"Don't you look lovely." Came a feminine voice from the door. Isond shut his eyes and silently cursed before turning. "That uniform certainly is striking Isond. It almost distracts the eye from the fact that you're the one wearing it. A big improvement." Aryx commented.

"Isn't there a body you should be eating, carrion? Or have the dead gotten tired of your company?"

"It seems age hasn't improved your wit," Aryx admonished, "But then, I might be wrong. You never were much to begin with."

"I don't understand why Vantric made you a goddess of curses, Aryx, everything else pales in comparison to being afflicted with you." Isond shot back. Spending time with Aryx did more than anything to make him question his choice to become a deity.

The angel snorted and made her way toward the table, picking up a bottle of the honey-made elixir, "That's quite a bit of alcohol. Drinking your life away, are you Isond? I'd say it was a waste, but then I'm not much one for lying."

"I only drink to deal with you." He made his way forward, taking the bottle out of her hand and setting it aside. "What do you want, Aryx?"

"Are they done yet?"

"Vantric and Aen?" He asked, the angel nodded, "Yeah, they just finished up."

"Why does he spend time with the warrior? He's a buffoon. Hardly worth the effort."

Isond shrugged, "I don't know. I doubt Vantric will tell."

"Do you suppose..." Aryx began, "You don't think they might be becoming...friends, do you?" She shuddered at the thought.

He chuckled, "Vantric? Friends? No. I've known him for centuries, and he has never had a friend. There's an angle here, some game he's playing. Aen's just a part of it. Whatever 'it' is."

Aryx made her way over to Isond's bed and slumped down on it. "I can't stand this."

"What?" Isond asked, pulling his chair away from the desk and turning it toward the bed before sitting.

"Having to be...friendly to Ren. It's intolerable." She spat, "It's draining being near her."

"I hardly have it better with Grix. Have you ever tried being nice to a dragon?"

"At least Grix talks. I'm lucky if Ren says more than a handful of words. And Vantric wants me to report everything about it and demands progress to be made on her!"

Isond opened his mouth to respond, then stopped. "Are we actually bickering over who has it worse?"

Aryx sat up, "When did we sink this low?"

"About the time Vantric started playing friends with Aen."

"We need to do something about them."

"You have any ideas?"

Aryx rested her chin on her palm, "No, but I'll work on it."

"Right, you do that." Isond got up and grabbed all the bottles, "I, however, am going."

"Meet me later in my room. We'll need to plan." Aryx said, getting up and making her way toward the door. The officer nodded. As he left, Isond wondered when he became a part of the political backstabbing he had spent his entire life trying to avoid.

DarkRawen · Feb 10, 2013

Dåre 30,2

"MELANTHIOOOOOOOOOOOOOS! COME ON, LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!"

It was this that suddenly woke Dåre up, startling him enough to fall off the blanket, and into the ocean. He remembered falling asleep on the mountain, why was he suddenly in over the ocean? The warm sea water woke him up, just in time for him to avoid being eaten by some sort of sea-creature, dark red in color, and with a horn on it's nose. He simply smiled to it, and it suddenly acted tame. It knew it's creator when it recognized him, it seemed. The blanket got down so he could ride it, and he jumped on top of it.

He then remembered the message he had heard, no doubt it was Nivix. Dåre wasn't sure what to do, Melanthios had agreed to the battle, right? However, Melanthios suddenly sent out a message himself.

"Greetings friends and allies, it has been a while and I apologize for vanishing so suddenly. I am afraid I had underestimated my wounds, and spend the last 1000 years recovering. I know I have no right to ask this off you, but I humbly request your help with creating a shield around Salustutis. I simply wish to defend my planet from outside attacks, and ensure that my race is safe. "

Dåre wasn't sure what to do, matters like honor and the likes didn't matter much to him, but he wanted to aid Melanthios. However, he didn't think there was anything he could do. He knew he could strengthen the shield with madness, but it was risky, and not worth it if Melanthios would get help from his allies. Hopefully Melanthios wouldn't be mad at him for not helping. Especially not since Melanthios had aided him several times already.

He decided not to think about it, although the thought would just join all the other ones, creating a numbing feeling in his mind.

Dåre went up with the carpet, and beheld all the small islands. The sound, sight, and smell of all the different creatures made him want to explore what he had created even more, what would he find? He might have been the creator of them, but that didn't mean he knew what they were. Every single island was filled with life and adventure.

It was at one of these isles he started his journey, a journey by ship, the young god being accompanied by nothing but his magic carpet. His They were many, but none was large enough to be referred to as mainland. On these islands, there would be all kinds of creations, trees filled with delicious but fairly deadly fruits, capable of stunning a mortal with a single mouthful, and small plants with flowers dancing around like small fairies. There were large, rabbit like creatures with wool instead of fur, and smaller, imp-like creatures that preferred the black and blue fishes that swam close to shores in the south of the planet.

On each island he stopped, eating and resting, before continuing. It was one of the warmer planets, but there were still some isles that had tall mountains, and snow. On every of them, one could see both the signs of madness and beauty, hand in hand, woven into the planet of isles. However, even if he could see all this, interact with all these different creatures, drink from the orange fruits on the trees, grab himself a brand new hat... something lacked.

It took more than a month, every day an exciting adventure, till he was done. "Is there nothing more I can explore?" He looked at the ocean, something still bugged him. This wasn't all, no, not at all. Was there something more? There had to be, he could sense it. Dåre grabbed the carpet, and went out, looking over the ocean.

He had ignored one area, as there were no islands around it. There, in what seemed to be the middle of no where, a hole, not too large, nor to small was. From high above, it wasn't noticeable because of angle, but he could see it now. "What is this?" he asked himself. "Has to be something amazing and intriguing," he answered to this question, and used the carpet to dive into it.

Obviously supposed to be longer, but 1. I suck at writing long posts, as I don't really like writing fluff. And 2. There is a second part, but I'm not feeling all that well at the moment, and this was a good place to stop, as I don't want to go too long without posting.

Belmarc · Feb 10, 2013

Aen left Vantric's fortress, stretching. It was nice to hang out with Vantric, but he suddenly felt a longing to talk to another friend, who he had grown too distant from in the past age. Luckily, there were only two places that guy could be. He figured he'd check on the Stryfe first, to see how they were doing, and if he wasn't there, he could always check Evermoor. Besides, he wanted to test out his new avatar. He flew off to the icy end of Salustis and donned it, the armor and swords settling into place, and the fire licking out at the falling snow. He laughed, then stifled it. If a Stryfe saw him doing that, what strange rumors might they spread? He scanned for his friend's presence and took off after what he hoped was him.

The ground rumbled and shook as the cave mouth collapsed in on itself. That should slow down this cult for a while. The death god wiped his hands of the matter and headed off into the woods. For a little while Zareth even let himself feel the brisk cold gathering around him, the winds always seemed to pick up around him in these lands. He reached into a pocket and took out a small orb of orange light. I've spent too long as birds, I'm starting to like shiny things too much. He placed the ball of fire in his palms and rubbed them together. Sometimes he still wondered what things would have been like if Venator had lived.

There was a familiar presence in the distance and a warm glow. "Looks like I'm not the only one looking for a fire." He said, letting his voice travel across the wind.

The snow hissed under Aen's footsteps as he ran through the storm. A few Stryfe caught sight of him, and their reactions were priceless. Some bowed, some ran, and some simply stood in awe, looking behind him expecting something, probably his army. It was actually quite fun, and he felt a few extra prayers follow him. Well,that wasn't really his purpose, but it didn't hurt. Soon he heard a rumbling sound, and picked up the pace. As he cleared the trees, he saw his friend waiting for him. He waved to him, not caring for a moment if it confused any watching Stryfe, and jogged up to Zareth. "Well met! It's good to see you again, Zareth."

"And you, Aen. Loving the new look by the way, very mature, very commanding. No wonder the Stryfe think this is the god that rammed my own scythe through my chest and bound me to the core of the world in chains."

With his palms warmed up, Zareth flipped the ball of flame like a coin and put it away. He suppressed a twitch as a flurry of thought and speech from the other gods invaded his senses. "Aaaaaand the fun times are over." He sighed

"Your own scythe? Wasn't aware you owned one, but if I ever need to give you a time out, I'll know what to do." Aen laughed. "Might I ask you what that flame you were using was? I didn't think a regular fire would warm a god, not that I'd think we need that til we came to this damned place." Aen stopped and cocked his head, looking out across the universe. "Nivix... Cassiel too... is the fight starting?"

"Probably soon and I hoped I wouldn't have to clean up another one of our number's remains for at least ten thousand years." He sighed. Then his mind sharply turned back to their first topic. "Never touched one in my life! But everyone just thinks that when they meet me that'll saunter up with a scythe and just 'Reap' everything. And that's not even the weirdest thing they say we've done. Did you know you and I carved this planet from our father's head?"

Aen laughed. "So we're brothers then? That doesn't sound too bad. Too bad about our father."

"Don't worry I think he was an abusive parent. I don't know what Mother ever saw in him!" Zareth cried in mock sorrow. "Oh! oh, and the flame is an echoe of Venator." He said, patting his pocket.

"I fear to know who they thought our parents might be. I can't think of anyone who could handle raising a couple of kids like us." Aen laughed, but it quickly faded. "O-Oh. Right." Aen dropped his avatar's guise and looked more like himself, then blew out a stream of hot air into the cold sky, watching the steam float up and away. "I'd almost forgotten... I should try to forget. Melanthios gave you Amour, so it should be in the past."

"The instrument sword?" It was a good thing the devil had given him the minutes of that meeting, although it did just conpound Zareth's dislike for large meetings involving other gods. "No I haven't seen Melanthios in over a thousand years, even Valerie didn't know where he went. This fuss with the fight is the first I've heard from him in a long time."

The news caused Aen to scowl. "He agreed to hand over Amour as payment for what he'd done. That he hasn't done it yet... well I suppose we can only assume he forgot and ask nicely, right?" Aen grinned mischeviously.

"We're always nice! And besides Mel and I are spiritul family. True, a family who haven't seen each other in nearly a millenium... and are probably keeping a few dark secrets from each other but if there's one thing I've learned from mortals it's that every family is like that in some way." How complicated things had gotten since the beginning.

"True enough. Still, he gave his word before everyone, and at the very least he should have offered it to you." Aen sighed. "And... I think I'd like to request something selfish of you."

Call it force of habit but Zareth's mind instantly went to one place. And besides it was Aen! The warrior had helped him in so many ways in the past and never made any demands in return.

"I trust your judgment Aen. Who am I bringing back?"

The warrior god shook his head. "No, no, it's best the dead stay dead, I think. Instead I'd... I'd like a bit of their personality. And you're the one holding onto it, I think."

"You mean this?" He held up Venator's ember. He had to admit that Aen made a reasonable choice when it came to keeping it. He was hardly doing Venator's memory any justice by keeping what remained of her power as a portable hand warmer that he didn't even need.

"Consider it yours, besides, I think I'll be making some selfish requests of you in the near future." He flicked the flame into the air and let it hover in front of Aen.

Aen grasped it and held it close to him. It was warm,and it fluttered like a heart beat. "Thank you, Zareth." Aen paused for a moment. "We've been friends for many years, and you were one of the first gods I ever spoke to. You're also the one I am closest to. I think... perhaps it is time I gave you my true name."

"What?!" And it was all so nice and emotional up until that point. "Is this about where you came from?"

Aen shrugged. "I don't know where I came from. I just know I was born knowing this one absolute truth of who I am, and that it should be hidden from all but those I truly trust."

"You wouldn't be the only one." Zareth had so much talk among the other gods about their own memories. Past lives, places that no longer existed, born knowing things that had never been. His own mind had been filled with ideas of what the world could be and the things it could be filled with... then his visions had taken a morbid twist.

The part of him he'd fought so hard against, the part he still had to fight to see some good in. But words like that are relative.

"Are you saying that I'm one of those you truly trust?" He had to handle this carfully, for Aen's sake as much as his own.

"One of them?" Aen shook his head, then stared directly into his friend's eyes. "Other than Grix, you're the only one."

The wind seemed to be whistling through the trees lowder than ever, it was the only noise passing between them until Zareth broke it. "Thank you, Aen."

Aen laughed it off. "It's nothing. I should have shown you a long time ago." He reached down and removed his glove, holding up the scar that had been made by his bond with Grix. He traced out the symbol in on his palm and pulled the rune away, holding it up for Zareth to see, careful to hide it within the storm. "I can give it to you, if you want. You'd be able to know where I was and call on me, like Grix can. It would also help you control me, should you need to."

The strange symbol seemed to pulse with pure life energy, it was as if It and Aen were breathing in tandem. But one thing Aen said seemed off. "Control you?" He couldn't mean that literally could he?

"Yes. I'm not sure how effective it would be, but having knowledge of my true name is enough to influence me, so owning it would likely amount to a fair amount of control, should you choose to use it."

This must be how people become megalomaniacs.

"If you're serious about this, then I feel it's important that we have full disclosure. You wouldn't want to give such great power over yourelf to someone then... well you may want to know the kind of person you're dealing with." Zareth raised his hand, placing it just an inch away from Aen's temple. "I can't promise you any great power from it, maybe some sleepless nights but if we're going to do this we should do it right."

Aen grinned. "Sounds like an adventure."

"If only."

Zareth flexed his hand and Aen's mind was flooded with visions of death and destruction. Of Nivix being consumed by fire. Roe, with tears flooding down his face as he swung his little sword at the encroaching darkness as it reached out to claim him.

Vantric, reduced to bones at his desk. Poisoned by his own hand. M'endar struggling as it was bound and sealed away beneath the ocean depths. Melanthios, clawing out his own eyes as his kingdom and schemes rose up around him. Aen was shown himself, scorched by magic, broken by blades and arrow. Then he was throwing himself from the heavens. He stood alone among a sea of blood, the other gods fallen and slain by his hand. Aen was on his knees as he raised his sword and drove it through his own heart. All the while screams and wails of mourning, of wailing mothers and crying children. One by one the stars died out and the cold crept i, claiming all life for itself. The visions went on and on, showing him the heavens destroyed or dying in every possible way.

Then, as quickly as they had come, they were gone. And Aen was left standing in the woods again. But the horned god was nowhere to be seen. In front of him stood the darkness personified. The end of all things. It reached out to him, drawing closer and eager to claim him for itself. And then it was gone, in its place was Zareth, holding Aen by the shoulders.

"Are you alright?" Zareth said, looking worried.

Aen panted, the visions gone but the memories burned into him. He looked at his friend in a new light, and understood what he should have before. "The god of death... and the death of all things." He shook his head and smiled, though weakly. "So be it. I'd rather a world where all things must one day die than a world without you. We are what we are, Zareth, and the darkness in you doesn't scare me. Much."

"A better reaction then most." Death smiled sadly. "Well that's all I had to show on the matter. You do what you have to."

Aen breathed in deeply. "If he wishes it... I will serve Death."

Zareth's mind raced with things he could say in response to that but all of them felt like they would have ruined the moment. He reached out clasped the rune Aen had drawn in the air.

Aen drew his sword and knelt, placing it across his knee and then lifting it up to the god of death as he bowed his head.

Zareth held up the blade, watching it reflect the stark sunlight. The runes shone like fire ad they radiated the pure power of a god. He drove it down into the snow and knelt down to the same level as Aen.

He opened his hand and stared into the rune on his palm. It took a moment before he could fully grasp what he was seeing but understanding slowly worked its way in. Years later Zareth would look back on that moment and remember the strange feeling he got when it seemed as if the rune was looking back at him.

He looked back to Aen, or the man who called himelf Aen and smiled. "It's quite poetic."

Aen snorted. "Close enough. Then I'll serve you now, I suppose. But don't think this means I'm gonna treat you special or anything."

The small ember fluttered against him again, excitedly. He'd almost forgotten his new purpose for it. He wouldn't bring Venator back, but perhaps she could fight with him. Aen sought into the earth with his power and drew some of the metals to him until it coated his left arm. Then he pressed the ember to it, and the metals melted and fused together. He felt the fire pass through the metal into his blood stream as well, and his whole body was filled with a new warmth. It covered his arm to just past the elbow, with a joint for movement. His blood pumped into newly formed tubes, which were crafted into runic shapes of power. Finally, the metal spread over his hand, covering his palm but for a slit large enough to draw a blade through, should he need his blood.

<spoiler=Action>
DC 19, Create a +4 item, costs 8 AP (paying with 4 AP and a 1 MP)
+4 Runic (the gauntlet uses runes to generate more power)
+6 Combat (makes for a harder punch, Venator's spirit was full of fighting spirit)

Zareth's Assist:
+2 Crafter (They are creating something)
+6 Death (Using the ember of a dead demi-god)

<spoiler=OOC> Just a reminder of how much AP and MP for myself (Aen 26/30, 1/2)

JoJo · Feb 10, 2013

Roe - 29, 2

The Empire of Humanity had come a long way since the unification of the Kingdom of Chama with first the smaller Rowan states and later the Changeling clans. By the beginning of the Fourth Age it's territory consisted of Olegard, middle and southern Almia, the Maroe Archipelago and the moon Oculus Pets. Rowan and Changeling lived equally side by side, ruled by a joint monarch whose family consisted of both races. Technology had leapt and bound since the last age and factories were becoming an increasingly common sight among the more traditional human blacksmiths and artisans. The swords of the Empire's guard had recently become replaced by new pistols and muskets to combat bandits with smuggled firearms from the Dues Filli and Mizzen.

Not all was well in the growing Empire though. Over the last few generations the power of the throne had increased dramatically, decisions that would have once come from the domain authorities now were reserved for ministers residing in the capital city of Manor. Work was scarce and hungry people had little sympathy for the tales of plenty and indulgence that emerged from the Royal Court. Tensions were particularly high in Lupine and Northern Chama, where a significant number of Ekiruru slaves lived. Originally refugees from the civil wars of Minas Kei, many of the richer Rowan had not missed an opportunity to gain access to cheaper workforce, despite the condemnations of many priests and Changelings. Grudgingly though the institution became widely accepted, even if a few lone dissenting voices stood up for the Ekiruru's rights. Rebel groups came and went but none had much success, not until the Fellowship that is.

~

Mocking voices hounded Golden Orchid as she was lead up the prison stairs, their venom as clear as the spit that dripped across her torn clothing.

"Radical... traitor... degenerate... plant fag..."

The young Rowan woman was thrown roughly into her cell and the door slammed behind her. She quivered in a heap on the ground, unable to think of anything-else but the judgement that had just been passed.

Tomorrow... I will be executed. At-least I will be reunited with you at last, Marina.

She reached out a hand and could almost feel Marina's smooth green skin, soft lips and full breasts against the stone walls. She supposed Ekiruru must go to Evermoor too.

"Not if I can help it!" a voice chimed from above. She looked up to see a grinning young boy standing in front of her.

"Who... are you?" she mumbled dumbly.

"Don't you recognise me?" the child exclaimed indignantly and stepped closer. She looked over him again, taking in his long messy hair, colourful clothing and the white flower pinned to his shirt.

"It's you... Lord," she breathed in amazement, "Am I dead?"

"Not yet," Roe replied cheerfully, "but you will be soon. Unless you accept my present that is,"

"You'll help me?" Orchid whispered, a tear rolling down her cheek, "Why?" The young god shrugged.

"You're a nice lady," he said, "I don't like the people who run this Empire anymore, they're too mean and they don't care about anyone-else. I think you could stop them."

"Why don't you just assassinate them or make them give up their power?" the woman asked, "You are a god after-all, Lord," she added hastily. Roe stuck out his tongue.

"It wouldn't work, someone-else bad would just take over. People need to learn how to rule themselves without me or Petal having to help all the time,"

"What are you going to do then?"

"Watch,"

A minute later, a guard's shout was heard from the isolated wing of the prison. Reinforcements barged up the stairs and into the corridor, to find themselves confronted with an empty cell. The call went out to search every nook and cranny of the area for the missing rebel but in the alarm of the moment no-one noticed a small golden cat squeeze out from the bars of a nearby cell and dash away across the courtyard to it's freedom.

"I won't fail you Lord!" Orchid muttered as she sped across the gravel on her new paws.

DC 5 - 1 AP
- Affect(Bless/Curse/Inspire) a single mortal for the term of their natural life - Roe changes Golden Orchid permanently into a cat using +6 Chaos (it's a talking cat with a grudge against the authorities, how is it not chaotic?)

Pappytech · Feb 10, 2013

Nivix - 30, 2

Melanthios looked up at the sky. "Nivix have you ever watched the sky? Just see it change?" He looked back down at Nivix, a smile on his face.

"Oh yeah, course I have," the chemister replied. "Why?"

Melanthios shrugged. "I just appreciate nature.... Nivix, why do you want to fight me? Because I locked away someone right?"

"Pretty much, yeah," came the nonchalant answer. "Not gonna lie, I don't like the way you've been acting. Like you're the only one who knows how to do things right, and everyone who disagrees with you needs to be slaughtered."

Sighing, Nivix pinched his nose between a pair of metal fingers. "Just doesn't strike me as the best way to run things, you know?"

Melanthios nodded. "I have plenty of time to reflect on my actions down there... I don't expect you to believe me. But I have no interest in hurting anyone any longer, though I understand why you would want to fight me."

"Great!" the madman said cheerfully. "Glad to hear that you've worked that out. But yeah, that doesn't really atone for past mistakes, sorry to say. So, come on, let's get going."

Melanthios kept staring at the sky. "Nivix why do you want to fight me? Is it to hurt me? To get revenge?" He looked down at Nivix.

"Hard to get revenge for something that wasn't done to me. No, the point behind this is to make sure that you don't do something like this in the future. That's it, plain and simple."

Melanthios seemed to think. "But in fighting me, we would probably became angry with one another. Making me even more likely to fight again."

Nivix shrugged. "Not if I break you."

"Well you could for a time. But then I would come back, and we would start over again. That doesn't really promotes peace in my mind." Melanthios sounded calm.

"I don't know if you were paying attention at the meeting," the chemister replied, arching an eyebrow, "but peace isn't exactly my biggest motivation here."

Melanthios shrugged. "Lets face it Nivix. We are equally strong, but I have more demigods. And I have no interest in feeling pain again... We could just call it even... or you could get a free shot... But I am not going to let you kill me. Or break me..."

Nivix was silent for a minute, before he suddenly strode forward, stopping only when he was inches from Melanthios' face. "Out of curiosity, how do you think Seith felt when you were sealing him into oblivion? How do you think Ailish felt when you were slaughtering her?"

Turning to the side, the chemister spit on the ground. "Look at you. So willing to dish out punishment, but the second it looks like it's coming back to you all you can do is lie and cheat to try to save your sorry excuse of a life. Tch. Remind me why I ever respected you?"

Melanthios looked at Nivix. "I am glad to hear you one day did, but those days are behind us. You were an interesting lab partner, but today you came to me because you want to fight... which is fine if you really want to I guess. But I have no reason to go easy on you. We have a different world view Nivix, and in my eyes everything is fair play in a fight."

"How about you, do you think everything should be allowed? Because your way of living mostly alone is fine, but I am not going to hold back just because of that. In a fight everything goes... which is why I do not want to fight again. But if you force me into one, then do not expect me to go easy or hold back." Melanthios sounded as cold as ever.

"Wait, wait, wait..." Nivix raised up a hand, his eyes shut. "So... You're saying that anything, and I do mean anything, goes?"

Melanthios seemed to think. "Well not anything I guess.... No not anything.... But quite a few things I guess."

"Specify, please."

"Well things like calling your allies for help would be allowed I guess... But well thinks like using someone's children against him wouldn't... I guess anything considered very morally wrong wouldn't be allowed." Melanthios had never really thought on the subject.

"Morals? Really?" With a melodramatic sigh, the madman shook his head. "Look, fine, I'll propose something. We leave mortals out of it. There. How does that sound?"

Melanthios nodded. "That sounds fine to me... Hey how about we make something which can reverse time? We could beat the hell out of each other, and then go back and do it all again or call it a day. I have never done anything with time control before." He sounded exited.

"Eh, no. Trust me, time manipulation gets out of hand fast. Ever try to fight a nega-version of yourself? It isn't fun.

"But," the chemister continued, "if you're really worried about healing up fast... Then I guess we could do it in the Battlegrounds... Even if it does mean that my planet's going to waste."

Melanthios seemed to think. "Well that might be a problem... Aen isn't really what you would call a fan of me. And no I have never fought a nega version of myself.. What are those like?" He sounded very interested.

"Nooooooope. Not distracting me. Stop trying to." With a wave of his hand, Nivix tore open a different rift, one that linked to the Battlegrounds. "Now come on. We're going. If Aen's going to give you crap about it, then I'll deal with him. But we. Are. Doing this."

"I am not trying to distract you, you will have your fight you want. Still after that nobody says we can't talk about things. I have found out some new things about the before time, which might interest you." He sounded very exited.

Nivix stretched his arm, far further than the limb should have been able to go, and latched onto the front of Melanthios' robes. "COME. ON."

He began walking into the rift.

Melanthios followed smiling. No matter what Nivix was otherwise, he was very interesting. "Hey Nivix, are we going to use demigods and items too?"

"Not gonna lie, I'd prefer it if we didn't."

"Kind of makes the experience less meaningful."

Mel nodded. "I can understand that. And if we are here we will heal anyway.... hmmm what if we fought with a handicap? Like not using our hands or something?" He was still smiling brightly, he looked like a young student.

Nivix paused, considering the idea. "Handicap? Well, I guess that's one way to make things interesting."

Reaching up with his right hand, the madman wrapped it around the base of his artificial limb. Then, with a grunt, he tore the iron arm off, sending a thin spray of blood hurling through the air. "There's mine.

"And if we're going to make things interesting... Why not put a friendly little wager on the line?"

Melanthios nodded. "What did you have in mind Nivix?" He threw off his robes, which then seemed to catch fire and vanished.

Opening up another portal, the chemister tossed his arm through it. Hopefully Ven wouldn't mind watching over it for a bit.

"Oh, nothing much, really. Your Magic vs my Knowledge."

Melanthios nodded. "But that doesn't really sounds like a bet to me. Though I am fine with just you vs me."

"Why, sure it is! Just like you took Seith's... his whatever. Power or something."

Melanthios seemed to think. "I don't know about you.. But I am not comfortable with betting a part of myself. Though it is an interesting proposal."

"In that case, we're going back to the original plan. Come on, still got a solid planet, totally devoid of life, just waiting to be wrecked up!"

"Or we could bet on something else, we could bet on access to each other sanctuary. There are many interesting things in my library, and I am sure they are in your lab too."

"Hmmmm... nah."

"What? Is my library not interesting enough... Or are you scared that I would get access to your lab?" Melanthios smiled mischievously.

"Nope, I just don't give a damn about your 'sanctuary'," Nivix replied as he dragged Melanthios through the (hopefully final) portal. "So, come on, let's do this."

Melanthios stopped, and dragged Nivix back. "I would prefer to have the fight here. I am not looking forward to having to heal for another 1000 years."

"Well, look. I need some way to make sure that you won't be fucking around with people ever again. So either take the deal and ante up some of your power, or get ready for me to rend you limb from limb. Two options. Pick one."

"Well no matter if I do lose or not, 'fucking around' with people is out of the question. If I was to attack anyone right now, I would be torn apart by the other gods."

"Then there's no problem. So make your damn choice."

"Fine I will agree to betting a part of myself. If I do lose I am sure you will think of something interesting to do with it."

Nivix's grin almost split his face in half. "You can bet on that."

Teleport to the Battlegrounds: Effortless

Arrogancy · Feb 10, 2013

Storyteller

"Gods are very powerful beings." The Storyteller said, setting his pipe aside and warming his hands by the fire as the wind picked up, "But that does not mean they cannot also be very foolish beings as well. Nivix began the Fourth Age with fire. He believed that Melanthios had betrayed a deal to battle that they had made in the previous age. To that end, he traveled to Salustutis in search of the god of magic. Unfortunately, he found Melanthios. The pair teleported to the Battlegrounds and the fight began, though Melanthios was not alone, and nor were they unwatched.

"Cassiel met with Roe on Evalon to tell him of fears that had festered within him since he scried the world beyond the portal. Their discussion was cut short, however, when both gods heard of Nivix's call to Melanthios for battle. Fearing the worst, Cassiel used his powers to discover what was going on." The Storyteller paused for a moment to take a puff of his pipe.

One of the younger girls stood up, taking advantage of the opportunity, "What did he find?" She asked.

"Hmm?" The Storyteller took his pipe out of his mouth.

"Cassiel. On the other side of the portal. What did he find?"

He stared at the fire for a few moments, watching the flames rise and fall in the wind. "Some things," He began in a low voice, "Are best left unsaid in this tale. It was terrible, that is all you need to know."

The Storyteller coughed a bit before he spoke once more, "Anyway, Melanthios, for his part, attempted to keep Salustutis safe from its enemies, and so created a shield around the planet, similar to the one Eldarwen had made so many years before. His allies, M'endar and Vantric also helped erect the shield, making it powerful and keeping the planet obscured to others attempting to look upon it.

"M'endar was also busy itself. The Deceiver sought to help its people, and so created the Valassi. They were an immortal strain, focused on relieving the ill emotions that those infected with their immortality possessed.

"On Evalon, Zareth sought to increase his worship. He blessed some small number of mortals to become his disciples and to spread word of his teachings. It was the beginning of the death church, though at the time it was looked on as ill by most. Daare began exploring his new world more deeply. Literally. He found a hole in the world and his sense of wonder overtook him. He delved into it, hoping to find what lay at the bottom.

"Not all actions of the age were so grand. The child-god Petal descended to Salustutis, to the Stryfe lands, after hearing a prayer one of their people sent to her. The young goddess blessed a sickly child, and provided him all the comforts that she thought the boy would need to have a happy life. Roe got up to some mischief of his own, transforming a woman into a cat.

"Zareth finally began utilizing the spirit of Venator that he collected in the last age. He gave it to Aen and they shared a very tender moment with each other, and then, to commemorate their relationship, they crafted an item. A gauntlet for Aen, one that hid his greatest secret, and his greatest weakness. Only Zareth knew what Aen hid beneath the gauntlet, it was a secret he swore to keep always. Aen trusted Zareth because he felt a special bond, a certain...connection with him that he lacked in the others."

"What do you mean 'special bond'?" One of the youngest children asked.

"They were...very close friends, little one." The Storyteller replied, quickly reaching for his pipe.

The older children snickered, "Yeah, 'close friends'." One boy remarked.

"Very close friends indeed." Another said.

"That's enough!" The Storyteller snapped, "Or do you want me to stop the story right now?"

There was a general grumbling, but the children quieted down.

"Thank you. Now then, events truly began to pick up after that..."

TheBlueShotgun0 · Feb 11, 2013

Auctor 8AP

The Lady of Minas Kei stood in the city square, her arms crossed, with an audience of Ekiruru at her back. The bright desert sunlight reflected majestically off her ornate armor and spear. It was a fine day, the sun shone bright and it was neither too hot nor too cold. It was not the type of day one associates with an execution.

In front of Auctor and the gathered crowd was a wooden gallows, on which stood a lone Ekiruru in plain black. The rabble of the crowd died out as another black garbed Ekiruru lead a cuffed and hooded figure up the stairs to the gallows. As the prisoner neared the rope, the hood was cast aside to reveal a beaten and bruised Ekiruru with a brutal scar on the side of her face. Despite the painful injuries, Auctor could still see the flaming spirit of rebellion in her eyes. It was a sight she'd seen, and vanquished, many time over the last thousand years.

Auctor's Chancellor, Ulana, stepped forward. She was dressed in blood red robes and held a scroll. She unrolled the scroll and, after clearing her throat, read it's contents. "Evantar of Gorwik." she said loudly. "You have been accused and found guilty of torture, unjust slaughter, and treason against the city of Minas Kei." The crowd shouted and booed at the prisoner as the rope was tightened around her neck. "Therefore, this city and her people have sentenced you to death by hanging. Have you any final words?"

The crowd silenced in anticipation. "I have only one thing to say." said the prisoner. "You may laugh and yell and jeer at me. You may beat and torture me. But I am the real victory here. I and my comrades have thrown off the cloak of lies that the Mourning Poet has covered us with. Today I die knowing that the One True Goddess Eldarwen will carry my spirit to salvation, and that you, the non-believers, shall be punished." The prisoner faced Auctor for the first time that day. "Soon, Eldarwen will return, and she will kill you."

And as the trap door dropped, as the rope tightened, as the prisoner choked and died from her own weight, those bloodshot eye stay locked on Auctor.

Later that same day.

Auctor, now dressed in more comfortable attire, sat down in the seat of her study with a sigh of relief. So often was she either planning or fighting that she rarely had time to simply relax. But the Reclamation was drawing to a close now, soon the city would once again be fully unified. Evantar had been one of the last leaders of the anarchists, and her death today represented yet another leap forward in the war. But yet, he final words still lingered in Auctor's mind. Was it possible that her beloved mother was still alive in some way?

Don't be stupid. she thought to herself, annoyed at her own insolence. She's gone, and she's been gone for centuries. You sound like one of those damn radicals. Auctor wished she had something to throw.

Reminding herself that she was in charge of a city, she tried to focus on more important matters. If the war was coming to a close, then the Minas would finally have the opportunity of open up diplomatic relations with the other civilizations of Evalon. For so long, trade and politics had been deterred by the conflict, but now Minas Kei would be able to open itself to the outside world once more. She had a secretary gather 30 of her courtiers, people she knew would were charismatic and wise, the perfect diplomats. "Ladies, I have a very important task you." she said, addressing the group. "This city will soon be opening it's doors to trade and diplomacy. I need you to spread the word. Seal deals, make allies, do whatever you can to increase our influence on Evalon." With that, the diplomats left to complete their mission.

Affect(Bless/Curse/Inspire) a small group of mortals (less than 50) for life: DC 7
+4 Words (She's giving them orders)

Floris2123 · Feb 11, 2013

Melanthios prepared himself, everything he had done so far...all the lies all the preparation...None of that matter now. Right now it would be him and Nivix, their most primal power was all they had now. He took a deep breath and focused, today he would fight using his head not his emotions.

He wondered if he could win, but at least Nivix had a handicap. "You can do it Melanthios. I believe in you my son." He smiled to himself, at least his father was there to watch over him. He opened his eyes again and smiled, no matter what would happen after this point. He was sure that it would be interesting, and was that not all a man could ask for? "Well come on Nivix, you wanted this fight then come at me with all you got!"

"With pleasure! [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02xyngkt5yc]"
Nivix roared. With a single leap, he cleared the distance between himself and Melanthios, his remaining fist lashing towards his foe's head.

Melanthios watched how Nivix jumped towards him, his eyes were focused on his fist. He brought up one of his hands and grabbed Nivix fist, and then aimed a punch with his free hand at the chemist face.

"What!? Is that it!?" Jerking his body to the side, the madman rolled out of the way of Melanthios' punch. "That's all you're going to hit me with!?"

Latching onto the mage's hand, Nivix leaned backwards, bracing his body and putting all of his strength into his arm. Grunting with exertion, he pulled, and sent Melanthios hurling into the air. "It's going to take more than your fist to take me down, Melthanios!"

Melanthios saw Nivix dodge his punch, he then felt the Chemist hand and the power in it. He was not able to defend, and was thrown upwards. "Don't worry Nivix, I haven't even started yet." He said smiling, he then moved both his hands creating strange runes in front of him.

"How do you like this?!" The runes turned into strange purple knives, which he shot at the chemist with incredible speed. The knives exploded into smaller knives, just before arriving at the chemist.

Dodging the first array of blades would have been difficult. Dodging the second? Downright impossible.

Summoning a titanium sphere that the knives clattered off of harmlessly? Incredibly easy. "Come on now," Nivix growled, banishing the shield with a single thought, "hit me already! Show me the power you used to seal away Seith, to kill Ailish!"

Roaring, the chemister leaped skywards, aiming to intercept Melthanios before he could touch the ground. An aura of crackling flames formed around his body, engulfing the madman in their intense heat.

Melanthios watched how Nivix created a shield and blocked his attack, he then leapt upwards flames surrounding him. You left yourself wide opened chemist. Melanthios moved his hand, and suddenly two black sword appeared inside them.

Black wings sprouted from his back, and black flames engulfed him. He flew towards Nivix, closing the small gap. He then slashed with both his sword, one aiming for Nivixs head and the other for his stomach.

SKKKT

Nivix grunted slightly as he caught the lower blade. It was a shame he didn't have his metal hand anymore; it probably could have grabbed the sword without so much as denting. As it was, he'd just have to deal with missing a few fingers and some blood.

Besides, there was still that other blade, the one whistling towards his head, to deal with. And he seemed to have run out of hands to block it with...

CHING

So naturally, he caught it in his mouth. "Heh. Nif try, bu no ood enuf!" Flashing his foe a grin, Nivix bit into the blade with all his force, shattering the metal into a dozen shards. He proceeded to spit them in Melanthios' face.

Melanthios grinned, it seemed Nivix was as crazy as ever. He activated his strongest wind spell, and instantly moved toward Nivix back. He dropped his two sword, and grabbed the back of Nivix clothes. He dropped himself, and pulled as hard as he could trying to drag Nivix down with him.Lets see if you like a little gravity!

The two gods slammed into the earth like a thunderbolt from on high, their combined mass and velocity more than enough to crack the ground into a massive crater. Nivix groaned as he stared down at his arm, blinking his eyes in a desperate attempt to clear the dust out of them.

The impact had done quite a number on the limb. It had absorbed most of the blow, protecting his neck and spine, but it was apparent that his bones had splintered into half a dozen pieces. "Tch. Useless arms..."

Rising to his feet with a spiral motion, Nivix shook Melanthios off his back. Growling, he swung his shoulder, moving his limp arm like a pendulum until he could snatch at it with his mouth. Then, he bit down.

The sound of tearing flesh and breaking bone filled the arena, and the chemister's arm fell to the ground, accompanied by another splatter of ichor. "Don't need you weighing me down..."

Melanthios braced himself for the impact, a shield forming around his body. The impact was enough to shatter the shield, and if it hadn't been for Nivix he would have broken his spine or worse. He was thrown off by Nivix, who bit his own arm off and commented on how useless it was.

He didn't hesitate for a moment. He hoped that the Chemist was unable to defend himself, as he brought up both his hands. Eight colored runes appeared, they quickly mixed and formed a larger rune. A second later an earth shattering beam was fired from the runes, it headed towards the Chemist.

Glaring through hazy eyes, Nivix stared down the energy blast that Melanthios was throwing his way. It crackled with untold power, and he could smell its heat from this far away. Getting hit by that would hurt.

So the chemister took a second to brace himself. Placing his feet against the ground, he leaned slightly forward, and took a deep breath. His lungs filled with air, and then...

He roared.

A blast of pure noise, tinged scarlet by rage and funneled into a single beam, that tore through the heart of Melanthios' blast and hurtled towards the mage's chest poured from the madman's mouth.

There was a deafening shout? And Melanthios was suddenly thrown back, hitting the ground with a lot of force. He quickly stood back up again looking surprised, still a bit wobbly after the hit. is opponent was a god like him, he had to remember that. "Time to use some real power." He summoned a knife and cut his wrist open, black goo poured out and closed the wound behind him.

The goo formed into a strange black shape, which wrapped itself around his arm. A black thing formed around his right arm, ending in a large black dragon head. He jumped up and aimed at Nivix, he shot out a series of highly concentrated purple beams. Hoping that he wasn't able to shout them all apart.

Nivix stomped against the ground, and his body was sent flying into the air. Twisting around, he lashed out with his feet, knocking aside or dispersing most of Melanthios' attacks. He couldn't block all of them, however.

The madman grunted as a trio of the violet blasts slammed into his chest, coating him in similarly hued flames. Charging downward, the god collided with the ground, rolling about in a desperate attempt to extinguish the flames. He succeeded, eventually, but not before his shirt had been scorched away.

"You bastard," he spat as he rose back to his feet, swaying back and forth. "I liked these clothes!"

Shouting out a wordless battle cry, Nivix charged towards his foe, his legs nothing but a blur, and prepared to headbutt him with every ounce of force he could muster.

Melanthios smiled, as he saw that his attack connected. The man then charged at him, with amazing speed. He briefly wondered why he didn't grow new arms, but then his mind went back to the battle at hand. he quickly landed and placed one had on the ground. The earth began to shatter around him, and large chunks of ground were blown upwards.

He jumped up, to suddenly see Nivix appear in front of him. He head butted Melanthios, throwing him back on another piece of now floating land. He was temporarily dazed, but quickly shook it off and jumped at Nivix, stretching out one leg to kick him with all his power. A black aura began to gather around it, as Mel began to focus all of his power into his leg.

Nivix stomped down with all of his force, aiming to catch the leg between his foot and one of the hovering platforms. A blow couldn't do much if it didn't connect, after all.

Nivix kicked his foot, and made him kick a piece of floating land. He was surprised by his foes ingenuity, but then again he was fighting Nivix. He moved his trapped foot, and made an impossible spin for mortals. His other foot was now heading towards Nivix's face, he hoped this one would connect.

The mage's foot slammed into Nivix's head with an earth-shaking thud. There was enough strength put into that blow to shatter a mountain, to break a hundred thousand shields in twain. The mere backdraft of the kick was enough to send up a cloud of dust, one that encompassed both of the gods.

Nivix's neck tilted a few millimeters to the side.

"Weak."

With a flex of his legs, the madman hurled himself forward, one of his knees aimed squarely at Melanthios' solar plexus.

The kick connected, but Nivix didn't seem impressed. He then jumped at him, aiming to hit him with his knee. Melanthios however wouldn't be hit by such an obvious attack.

He moved his now free leg and placed it on Nivix knee. He threw himself backwards, and focused lightning into his free hands. He aimed at the chemist, and released his lightning.

The crackling electricity struck Nivix head on. Merciless lighting tore through his body, searing his nerves and scorching his skin. It was only thanks to his insane will the Nivix was even able to remain standing, and even then his stance was wobbly and uncertain.

Of greater concern, however, was the fact that he couldn't see.

"Damn you, Melanthios!" he growled, shaking his head about in an attempt to regain his vision. To no avail, sadly; his eyes were stained a milky white, and no amount of jostling or determination seemed capable of repairing them.

Off balance and disoriented, the god simply took a moment to steady himself. He couldn't afford to lose, not here, not now!

Melanthios landed on one of the flying pieces of land. He looked at his opponent, who had no arms and his eyes seemed to have been destroyed. He almost felt bad for the scientist, until his head warned him about the damaged he had sustained earlier. He focused and stretched out his hand, it was time to finish this.

A strange scythe appeared within his hands, the power radiating from it showing it was from 'the before time'. It had served him well in his previous fights, and so it would serve him again. He moved his hand creating three air clones, he then teleported behind the chemist. The air clones split up, and then they all jumped at the same time. He brought his scythe back, and aimed to take off Nivix head with one fell sweep. He hoped that the chemist wouldn't be able to block his attack.

The sound of rushing wind... Three, no, four bodies moving around, leaping from platform to platform. One sounded heavier than the rest, if the impacts were anything to go by. Then there was the smell of metal. Not anything of mortal make, but a material from an ancient, bygone era. He could feel the air currents changing as the new substance solidified into a shape, hear the sound of Melanthios wrapping his hands around it...

Behind him!

With a grunt, Nivix hurled himself backwards, flipping over the scythe and dodging the blow by a hairsbreadth, quite literally; the blade clipped through a few of his hairs as he twirled through the air.

Although he couldn't see the effects the attack had left on him, Nivix knew that he hadn't exactly escaped unscathed. His hair felt as though it was cold as ice, as though all the life and energy had been sucked from it. And if that was just what a glancing blow could do... He didn't want to know what would happen if the scythe actually managed to hit him.

Landing behind Melanthios, the madman slammed his shoulder towards the mage's back, hoping to throw him off balance and gain some time to recover.

Melanthios was unhappy to see that Nivix had figured out which one he was, and even managed to dodge his attack. Before he could respond however, he was slammed in the back and was thrown off the small piece of land. He flew forwards but managed to recover by placing one his hand, on one of the flying rocks and throwing himself upon another.

He looked at Nivix, he wondered for a brief moment if he was even able to die. But without his ability to see, he should be able to defeat him? If he could be defeated that was. He summoned one of his pistols, and aimed at the scientist. A smirk spread across his face, he was sure he couldn't dodge this time. A very concentrated blue beam shot from the gun, heading towards Nivix's heart.

The blast tore through Nivix's chest and out the other side, leaving a gaping hole in his breast and sending streams of golden ichor pouring down his body. Gasping, the madman staggered backwards a few steps, his chest heaving in an attempt to refill emptied lungs. The pain that coursed through his body was excruciating, as though his blood had been replaced with oil and set alight. His knees bent, and he almost collapsed, spread eagle (minus his arms, of course) to the ground.

Almost. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJo_3B5-1uk]

"Found... you..."

With one last hot-blooded roar, Nivix dashed towards his foe, his feet pounding into the shattered ground again and again and again. In his mind's eye, he could see the path the blast must have taken. And at its point of origin...

This was it! All of his remaining might and power, put into a single attack! Enough raw energy to split a star in two, all of it focused solely on Melanthios! He would not lose, not to him! He was going to... going to win!

"You bastard... Die!"

Only a fool relies on one attack to win his battles. The wings on his back flapped, he quickly flew upwards and looked at Nivix. He was just about to aim at him, when he suddenly saw him jump up. His speed was unpredictable, and he managed to catch up to him.

He cursed under his breath, he wouldn't lose to someone who was blind and had no arms! Nivix gave him another head but, this time however it was much stronger. He was blown away once more, flying through the flying pieces of rock. He eventually smashed into the ground, making a large crater.

His head felt as if he had just been hit with an giant hammer, and his vision was hazy. But he wasn't done just yet! He aimed his right arm at Nivix, all of his power and the energy around him gathering into his hand. Suddenly a huge cannoned formed around his arm, "Take this!" Melanthios screamed as an massive black beam flew towards Nivix, disintegrating anything that came in the way.

Terratina. · Feb 11, 2013

The Eva'li Collective

The Verr were thriving in these conditions. With the age of industry, pollution has become rampant and soon the ruined lands were abandoned, only to be taken up by the few Verr that remain on Evalon. These became their birthing grounds. In slime and smoke, they replicated at an astonishing rate. Nearly all born took up the Path of the Phalanx. They had always been here, ever since the First Makings and even when offered a new land of their own, they had refused. This was their land. But now, and over thousands of years they had been pushed to the edges, near the dreaded waters of the planet. But now was the time for change. Newly formed Phantoms arose and took the forms of other races and spread out, some even going across the sea in trade boats to the lands in the south. Prayers when up to the Deceiver and the Lady. They would not share the terrible fate of the Ekiruru.

"Soon, soon..."

Zs'Wua'Itzala - 7/8 AP

She had fun with the Shadowshrieks, but now was time for a different target. She had heard the prayer and smiled. The Humans will know of her, no, they would remember her for centuries. She swapped the wilds for the City of Manor. The so-called Holy City of the Rowan. Through the crowd of Changeling and Rowan people, she wandered towards the palace, but the guards at the gate barred the way. She then shifted into ethereal form and entered the palace freely. There was the throne, the seat of government for this race. She would teach them about giving meaning to simple unliving, unfeeling objects. And there was the king, in his majesty, surely such a crowd rested uneasily on his head. Well, it soon would be. She began chanting a spell, out of sight and out of mind of the palace guards in the room. The chanting was almost complete, all Zs'Wua had to do was say the final words.

"Let all reigns thereafter be but a shadow of this one."

Listen in on mortal prayers. - DC = Effortless

Enchant/Scry an area the size of a large room. - DC = 5

- Enchant the throne room so that all rulers after the current ones will be poor rulers.

Bonus(es):

- Shadows [+4] (

Code:

Manipulating people from the shadows with shadow magic.

)

- Hatred [+4] (

Code:

The action is borne out of hatred for Humans.

)

???

They had taken his name from him! And not only that! They had taken all his rights, right to a name, right to bear arms, right to a spouse and more. He looked at the scar, the only thing that remained of his Guildmark. They had taken that from him as well. Well, they had goaded him into attacking another after the Guildhouse had faded away. It was clearly a plot against him. What was his name again? Not like it mattered in the wilderness. 'Tumultus'? No, that was not him now. Now he was a traitor, somebody possessed by an evil spirit or whatever they cooked up back there. At least he now was free from them. Free to wander around, but everywhere he just saw more of the order that consumed the land. Ekiruru bound by low wages and hate, Verr pushed to the edge by the neglect of the other races, including his own. He grabbed a small rock and decided to take his frustration on a nearby stray young Sharluk.

"It's all so... GODDAMN USELESS."

M'endaxius - 23/30 AP, 1/2 MP

A voice screamed through the cosmos, and it reached the ears of the Deceiver, it smiled again. How wrong he was. With a simple sweep of the arms, it teleported itself to Evalon, to where the call came from. From the looks of it, the cave had been used as a base for something or someone and track marks of a small animal could be seen. It walked around, puzzled that it couldn't find the source of the call. Then it all became clear, the young Changeling was sulking behind a rock, his hand clutching another small rock. No, he wasn't sulking, he was seething with rage. M'endar could easily see his woes, as it had gone through a period of powerlessness in the last Age. The Changeling looked up to see a hooded figure blocking out the sun. Thoughts of the other gods ran through his head. He looked at his elongated arms and understood. So, this was the one that created the Versipellis Clan...

"Another agent is about to be born, please lead me your strength, brothers..."

Teleport to Evalon. - DC = Effortless

Send a message to Roe, Zareth, Melanthios and Vantric. - DC = Effortless

Turn a mortal or creature into a demigod [+4 Anarchy, -2 Extremist(?)] - DC = 15

Bonus(es):

- Deception [+4] (

Code:

The demigod will be a master of revolutionary propaganda, which is a form of deception.

)

- Corruption [+4] (

Code:

Twisting a mortal into an immortal.

)

- Chaos [+4] (

Code:

A key part of anarchy is chaos.

)

Pappytech · Feb 11, 2013

Nivix - 30, 2

The madman fell back to the ground with a thunderous crash, his feet digging a pair of craters into the already ruined Battlegrounds. Gasping for air, the god staggered back a few steps, barely managing to stay upright. It was hard enough to keep his balance when he was missing his arms, but the blood pouring from the gaping hole in his chest certainly wasn't making things any easier. Add in the fact that he couldn't see worth a damn, and that that last exchange had left his ears ringing... Damn, he had to finish this fight now.

Panting, Nivix forced himself to stand tall. Melanthios had to be hurting as well; if he could just get one last good shot in on the mage, then maybe he could bring everything to an end.

"Take this!"

Melanthios' warcry cut through the madman's thoughts. There, at the opposite end of the Arena! That was where he was lurking! All Nivix had to do was cross the battlefield, and he could break the bastard's skull in two! All he had to do was-

The pitch-black blast fully engulfed Nivix, swallowing the god and everything around him. The ground beneath his feet, the wall behind him, the clouds of dust that filled the air, nothing could escape the attack. It was an all consuming shred of oblivion, a hint at the darkness that always lurked on the edges of the light. It was destruction and erasure, pure and simple.

Had they been fighting anywhere else, Nivix would have had his life suddenly cut short.

As it was, when the energy finally dissipated, the madman was still standing there. Though his mouth hung open, as though it were stuck in some howl of pain, no words escaped his lips. His unseeing eyes were wide open, staring at a section of wall just to Melanthios' right. His chest, stained golden by his divine blood, had stopped moving. If not for the ichor, sweat, and tears that gently pattered to the ground, one could have mistaken Nivix's body for a simple statue, albeit an expertly carved one.

Then he started screaming.

[HEADING=2]"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!!!"[/HEADING]

There were no words that could describe the agony flooding through his ruined form, no way to summarize the absolute suffering that his body was going through. A sane being, whether mortal or divine, would have instinctively sealed off their higher thought processes in an attempt to escape the pain; Nivix had no such luxury. He fell to his knees, his spine bending back at an impossible angle, his face shouting towards the heavens overhead.

As suddenly as it had begun, Nivix's roar stopped, and his head flopped forward lifelessly. Only the shuddering motions of his chest and the tears running down his cheeks indicated that the god was still alive. "I... No. No. Not again.

"Why did it happen again?"

It wasn't clear if the madman's mutterings were directed at Melanthios or were simply inane ramblings. "Why can't I do anything? Why am I so... so... weak?"

Nivix shivered. Three streams of golden energy began to pour from the back of his head, twisting and spiraling together into a single glowing orb. The glimmering sphere, pulsing and shining with all kinds of bizarre, unstable, chaotic energies, floated into the air, stopping only when it reached the center of the Battlegrounds.

There was nothing else keeping him here. With one last, mournful wail, the madman summoned an array of power, and vanished into the aether.

Surrendering his Knowledge [+6] domain: Effortless
Teleporting to Salustutis' northernmost region: Effortless

Arrogancy · Feb 11, 2013

The cruiser lowered the ramp and immediately a platoon of soldiers ran forth, rifles ready. Their dark uniforms and stealthy nature helped them blend into the shadow of the ship and the darkness of the night. They weren't here on exercise, every one of them understood that tonight's operations were vital for things to come. Not one of them, however, knew what 'things' were.

Eventually, the signal was given and an old lainir walked down the ramp, leaning as lightly on his cane as he dared. Another pair of soldiers followed him onto the island. When he touched down, the platoon formed up and began advancing out, keeping an eye in every direction, scanning the distance for sudden movements and strange shapes.

"You two, ahead, investigate the meeting point." Their captain said in a harsh whisper, walking up to his commanding officer as two soldiers dashed off to the distance, "I don't like this, sir. Not one bit. We should have brought more soldiers."

The commander waved him off, "We need to take certain risks. We cannot afford to scare away potential allies. I have trust in you and your soldiers, captain."

"General Halon, you'll forgive me if I think you should return to the ship."

"I'm fine." Halon replied, sharply, "I was making assassins' meetings well before you were born."

"That's what worries me, sir." The two soldiers returned, nodding briefly to the captain and saluting the general.

"It seems things are set to go. Cover me, captain." The captain gave a crisp salute, then called a halt for his soldiers, watching as Halon made his way to the meeting site.

It was a plain venue, at the heart of the desolated island of the Maroe Archipelago. It gave an excellent view of who might be coming, and who might be watching in the darkness. Now, all Halon had to do was wait for his ally to show up.

Sven could barely contain himself. Sure, he'd have to suffer through working with the The Kin and The Pack, but for what he was going to earn for setting up this meeting was well worth it. Vespis rubbed against his mind, warning him. Right. He had to keep himself calm, and not count his coins until he'd hidden them away. Things could still go badly if he wasn't careful.

It wasn't long before his boat hit ground. The changeling climbed out and carefully pulled it all the way up to shore before removing the tarp and undoing the latches to box where his precious partner hid. It wouldn't do to have her harmed by a little water. Who knew how much he'd have to rely on her tonight. She climbed out, testing the ground warily before scuttling out. He could sense her disdain for the structure, but he reminded her that it was the only thing that'd kept her dry through the whole trip. She didn't cease grumbling but allowed him onto her back. They moved quickly across the broken ground, not bothering to hide in the shadows. He'd have to forgo that this time, best to let his allies know he was coming so they didn't get trigger happy. As it was, the sight of his wonderful spider scared them, no need to give them a reason to fire.

Only when he'd dismounted off of his partner did he speak, and even then in it was in a half whisper. "Greetingss, General. I hope I did not keep you waiting. The otherss should be here shortly." The slight hiss in his speech wasn't necessary, but Sven felt that it added a nice touch. Appearances were important, after all.

"Sven, good to see you, as always." Halon tried to make it sound genuine, but failed. He'd known Sven for years, both through reputation and through personal contact. The Faredor wasn't the most trustworthy of business partners, but he was reliable and discreet, and that would do. Generally, he didn't mind seeing the changeling, but recent events had put him on edge, and the giant spider Sven used as a mount wasn't helping his mood much.

Halon pulled out his pocket watch, flipping the cover open, "You're late." He said. The lateness was minute at worst. Well within acceptable limits for most military plans, but it was important to assert that he might not be willing to go through with the deal if things kept annoying him like this. It ran the risk of driving the Changeling away if he felt offended, but the possible benefits that could be reaped from Sven trying to salvage the deal over supposed difficulties was worth it. "We're on a tight schedule Sven. Things will soon be put into motion. The Impath want the first move made before winter and I need an army ready for the spring offensive."

Sven smiled. "But General Halon, they are already here. Lissten carefully. Unlike a sspider, a dragon can't move ssilently." With that said, he motioned off to the sky as dragons, all dark colored, flew into range and began to descend. Before they touched the ground, they released what they had clutched in their claws, which moved quickly away, growling at nearby Lainir. Only when the dragons descended and a few changelings moved up to calm them did they quiet down, clearly still a bit shaken up from their method of travel. One walked up to them, dressed in skins and furs, her direwolf never leaving her side. "Sven, you've better have a damn good reason for making us go by dragon rather than ship. Who gives a damn if we get spotted, we'll tear their throats out."

A laugh came from the back of one of the dragons, and a young Kin leapt from his back. He removed his goggles as he spoke. "Calm down Kiara. If Sven was telling the truth, there will be plenty of throats to rip out later. And better, we'll be paid well for it." The young man extended his hand to the Lainir general. "Gareth, leader of the Storm Beasts, the finest mercenary group on all of Evalon." He winked at Sven, the slight obviously meant in good humor, though he knew the Faredor clansmen would take it personally. "This is Kiara, my second in command." The Pack clanswoman made no gesture of welcome, only rubbed the coat of her dire-wolf and glared at Sven through her head piece

If he were even ten years younger, Halon would have fallen back with his mouth open like a green recruit. Fortunately, years of working with certain members of the Changelings and a few trips out to the dragon-rider lands, had helped him overcome his fears of the beasts somewhat. Still, the sight of the giant beast swooping down from overhead was a shocking sight, which was exactly why he needed them.

Halon forced his hand forward, offering a handshake to the dragon-rider-Gareth. It was time to play diplomat. "General Halon Tenair...Commander of the combined Impath forces." He hesitated on that last part, wondering whether to give his full status. Still, if Sven trusted them, then they probably already knew enough about him that it didn't matter whether they knew what rank was. "I will take personal responsibility for your discomfort, but rest assured, it will be well worth it. I'll hazard a guess that these were the elite mercenaries that you promised me, Sven? Have you two been briefed on what I'm asking of you?"

"They've been informed of the bassic nature of the reason for thiss meeting, but not the finer detailss. I thought it besst to leave that up to you, General." Sven's spider backed away as the dragon drew close. It was well known that spiders caught younger dragons in their webs, and so the Kin and their beasts did share much love for her kind. The dragon only scoffed and laid down behind his partner, flicking his tail lazily with closed eyes.

"And it better be good." Kiara wasn't watching the conversation, but she made it clear she was paying attention. She gave her direwolf one finally scratch behind the ears before she lept away, growling orders at the others to leave the Lainir soldiers alone.

Gareth smiled apologetically and waited for the General to speak.

Halon nodded, it was good to confirm that his trust in Sven's discretion hadn't been misplaced. He was somewhat apprehensive about working with people as barbarous as the Kiara-woman, but war loomed on the horizon, and victory was worth any cost.

"Within the next year, war will be coming." He began, tapping his cane against the blacked soil, "A war unlike any since the Revolt of Humanity will begin. The Impath is going to war with the dwarves, and we intend to win. I have been given full command of the military for this operation, and am authorized to begin making preparations. I asked Sven to gather some mercenaries to help my people win the war, and he said you came highly recommended. For accepting our contract and fighting for us, you will be paid handsomely, and if your skills are as good as Sven makes them out to be, you may receive a share of the spoils of war when we win. And we will win, Commander Gareth."

"Interesting." Gareth began pacing, and Kiara watched him. Whatever her commander chose, she would follow. "I don't know if you know this, Commander, but my Clan lives very close to the dwarves. In fact, we do a bit of business, and many of the armor for our dragons come from them." He paused before turning towards Halon. "However, that's all it is. Business." He smiled. "Now let's talk about that handsome payment, shall we?"

Pappytech · Feb 11, 2013

Ven - 5

The Mizzen stared down at the unexpected gift laying on the table before him. He hadn't expected Nivix to ever abandon his arm, at least not willingly. Still, there was no accounting for the bizarre ways the chemister's mind worked; he probably had his own reasons for giving up the limb just before his little fight.

And besides, the synthetic mused, this gave him a golden opportunity.

It had been just over a thousand years since he'd ascended from an immortal to a god, and he'd spent his time well. Studying, experimenting, testing, discovering the limits and boundaries of his new abilities. On the surface, his work had an innocent enough appearance; no one would question a Mizzen, especially one with as many responsibilities as Ven, working on various nonsensical projects.

However, those close to Ven, and smart/sane enough to keep track of his many activities and rulings, might have noticed a somewhat... sinister pattern to his activities. His new interest in plants and biological and mechanical hybrids. The increase in time he spent conversing with crazed Mizzen. The way he had vehemently refused to have any dealings with Minas Kai.

But if anyone had ever seen anything, they didn't bring it up. And now, with a bit more power on his side, Ven was finally ready to act.

[hr]

It was rare to see a Mizzen in Minas Kai. It was even rarer to see a live one. So when rumors of several of the mechanical beings, all with startling similar appearances, popping up around the city began to circulate, of course the populace was confused.

However, talk of a mystery Mizzen was soon overshadowed by something else: a plague had fallen over the city. A plague that only seemed to affect the synthetic Ekiruru, regardless of their mortality.

Curse a large group of mortals (500) for life: DC 9, 3AP
Ven is creating a plague that infects synthetic Ekiruru and drives them insane. Though it starts with 500 original victims, it travels through their shared hivemind and infects more and more of them with each passing day. Each victim is affected differently: some merely suffer from a minor bipolar disorder, while others are reduced to gibbering idiots. Split personalities, schizophrenia, irrational paranoia, anything is possible, so long as it's debilitating.
+4 Transmutation (Changing the way their mind processes thoughts and stimuli), +2 Destruction (Destroying their sanity/grip on reality), +1 Chemistry (Changing the chemical reactions in their brains so that they do not function correctly)

Dogmatic99 · Feb 12, 2013

Zareth 28 , 2

Melanthios simple watched Nivix, he listened to his ramblings as his own wounds began to slowly heal. He finally walked forward, every step made it clear just how much punishment he had received. He reached forward, and grabbed the three small golden orbs.

They almsost seemed to be alive, he teleported them. They were his prize, he wouldn't share them with anyone. He then finally sat down, he still felt very sore. But now at least Nivix was less of a threat and he had gained new materials.

A rush of feeling came over Aen. Someone was fighting, and it was intense. So intense that he could pick up who it was. "Nivix... and Melanthios. They're fighting. Or were. I can't tell from here. But I can tell that it is or was one hell of a battle." The combat god grinned. Drinking that draught Vantric's devils had created was one thing, but this... it was certainly elevating. He turned to Zareth. "Perhaps we should go find out what happened, and it wouldn't hurt to ask Melanthios about Amour while we are there."

Aen's battle lust was nigh on contagious but Zareth had to reign himself in. Everytime he let himself get emotional some one died or he created an icey race of killers. And there was only so many times that could work out.

"Sounds like a plan." Said Zareth as he scooped himself and the arrior up in a pool of darkness and swept the two of them to the Battlegrounds and the scene of the battle. "Why is it every time any of us get together something gets destroyed or someone gets mutilated." He turned to Melanthios and gave a casual wave. "Mel, I assume someone has been mutilated."

Mel looked up to see Zareth, a smile spread across his face. He then saw Aen, if he had been less of an actor his smile would have vanished instantly. He summoned a staff, and managed to push himself up. "Greetings Zareth, Aen. Yes someone did indeed get.. mutilated. Me and Nivix fought, we betted on the outcome of the match and I won."

Melanthios felt himself slowly getting stronger, he took a stronger stance and then continued. "I must say though, Nivix is one hell of a tenacious fighter. I mean he kept fighting, even after having lost both his arms, his eyes, and his heart. Anyway how have the years been treating you Zareth?" He asked sounding casual.

"Aaaaw he needs those." Zareth sighed like a child who had just seen a three legged puppy. "I've been well though, thank you brother. Rushed off my feet but well. Have you seen my latest creation yet?"

Aen spoke up. "Well, Melanthios, I'm glad to see that you used my Arena, but sending me an invitation to watch would have been nice."

Melanthios nodded. "Sorry about that Aen... Nivix was in a bit of an hurry, to say the very least... I will be sure to ask for permission, and send you an invitation next time."

He then turned to Zareth. "Zareth I have not yet seen your creation, what kind of an creation is it? And where is it?" He sounded curious and exited.

"Oh, and another thing, Melanthios. Could you be so kind to tell me where I may find Amour, so that I can give it to Zareth? It seems that you've been very busy this past 1000 years, so I thought I'd help you out with that." Aen sent a message to Ren to check on Nivix. The Arena should fix him up, but with that one, he wasn't sure of anything.

"Oh hey're a funny story, I was using this glasier as a punching bag when - no I'll, I'll tell you later, give you the tour. You'll love them and the filli will finally have neighbors."

Melanthios nodded to Zareth. "I am happy to hear that... And now you have made me very curious."

He then turned to Aen. "I am afraid I do not know where Amour is right now. I have been locked away in a room for the last 1000 years you see. Though I have sent people to look for it, I am sure I will get a message from them soon."

He then looked back at Zareth. "Want to show your creation to me now brother? I am sure Amour will be here shortly." He was still smiling.

Zareth could have cut the polite tension between his two friends with a scythe (if he had one!). He had to act fast. "Of course!" He cheered, putting a hand on each of their shoulders. "Let's all go, there's so much to see. Just follow me."

Zareth left for the Stryfe lands, leaving a trail behind him for the other two to follow. He stood on one of the higher mountain tops that separated a pair of holds. He was about to perch on a rocky outcrop before stopping himself. No, no I've been birds too often. And he took the form of a shaggy gray wolf. Not sure about this one.

Aen followed after Zareth, adopting the form of a white wolf upon seeing his friend's form. Better to fit in this time around, he supposed.

Melanthios followed his friend, curious as to what he might find. He changed into a completely black wolf, who was slightly bigger then Aen's form. He wouldn't outright say it, but he hated that little smug god.

"Meet the Stryfe!" Zareth barked victoriusly. "Their choice of name not mine."

Melanthios smiled, it seemed like a strange race. He then ran down the mountain, he wanted to meet this new race up close. He sent a mental message to Zareth "The last one down is an Ekiruru" He turned his head and smiled at Zareth, before speeding up.

"There's no shame in being a lesbian plant woman!" Zareth called back. "That said." He said turning to Aen "I'm sure if we just- BYE." He sprang off down the mountainside, his paws seemingly unbothered by the sheer vertical slope.

Startled at first, Aen quickly regained his composure and leapt after his friend. Maybe he couldn't win by a landslide, but if he wrestled his friend and rolled past the finish line first...

Melanthios ran as fast as he could, he however saw that Zareth was slowly catching up to him. "Well for someone who doesn't mind being a lesbian plant woman, you sure are running fast my friend. " He then turned his head slighty, seeing Aen.

He didn't want to talk in front of him, but it seemed he didn't have a choice. "Anyway I have been meaning to ask you something, how is Valerie doing?" He seemed worried, though he didn't slow down.

Dog Zareth bounded into a snow drift and skidded to a halt, snow coating his paws. "She's good." He panted. "She's proving to be very talented medium. It's great, medium's are only my second least favourite death sorcerer." He padded over to the smaller of the two holds. A ragged, cloaked figure was making its way through the gates. Something about it smelled wrong.

Aen finally caught up to Zareth and pounced on him anyways. Best to teach him a lesson with a friendly brawl. The way his friend was distracted caught him off guard mid-jump, and he collided with the death god rather than pinning him.

Melanthios joined his friend, he saw Aen pouncing on him. he ignored the showing and then looked at the hold. "Is there something wrong Zareth?" Melanthios asked Zareth mentally.

"That one -" Zareth yelped as a mass of fur colided into him and he was sent sprawling into the snow. He barked and scrabbled to his feet. His hackles were raised and his senses were on edge. "There was something wrong with that one... it smelt off."

He sent out a call through the ether, telling Flight to keep an eye on it. "Never mind, I'll take care of it later." He picked up the pace again and ran to another part of the hold, letting his form fade just enough to go unseen by the guards. He arrived in the hold square, the Stryfe were busy today. A large group had gathered to watch a pair of hulking fighters beat each other senseless.

Aen raced after his friend. Better to stick with Zareth than be left alone with Melanthios. He melted into the snow to pass the guards, and stopped short behind Zareth. He grinned. More fighting. He listened carefully to see if either was praying to him.

Melanthios followed Zareth, he had no reason to interfere in how he handled his race. He let his form fade as well, taking in the strange architecture. These beings were very strong.. but they didn't seem very smart.

Seems they have a proving today. Zareth said to the two of them, silently. These two are vying for a position of some kind. Probably who gets to lead a raiding party or a sword band.

The god watched as the two combatants were thrown large staves and set about fighting with renewed vigour. Outside of the fighting circle a little Stryfling was cautiously approaching the trio of canine gods, offering out their hand to sniff.

Melanthios ignored the little one. This was a barbaric race... He needed to treat this carefully. There could be peace between the Dues Filli, and this race. But they would need rules and such, because these things didn't seem very peaceful. What the hell had Zareth been thinking when he made them?

Aen sniffed at the child's hand and then bowed his head and allowing the child to pet him. The fight seemed like it was about to start, and Aen continued to watch through the child's attention. He had already decided who to give aid to, but the real battle would be up to him.

The two Stryfe clashed their weapons against each other, their wooden weapons clashing loudly and blurring with movement. One of them gotr in a quick swipe and struck his opponent round the face, causing them to spit up a streak of blood. the crowd cheered their approval.

"You should see the sesonal provings. All the young Stryfe that come of age step forward to prove themselves worthy to join the hold's warriors. It's a full on battle royal. I never knew what Eldrwen saw in the whole arena thing but I get it now. There's something intoxicating about it all."

Melanthios watched the fight, he however took no pleasure in it. He liked seeing minds crash, strategies build, plans executed. But this was just pure violence for violence's sake. He could understand what others saw in it, but he didn't enjoy it himself. He did smile though, it would be rude to comment on his friends race.

Aen could tell Melanthios didn't enjoy this. It was the same with Vantric, really. They didn't understand that there was a mental aspect to battle. Not just your body strained against the other, but your will, and your reactions. You had to outthink your opponent just as much as you had to beat his punches. He rubbed his head against the Stryfling and curled around the child. It seemed the Stryfe he favored wasn't doing as well as he hoped, but he held himself back from giving aid. He had to wait for the right moment.

"They've done quite well for themselves." Zareth mused. "I've tried to leave them to it mostly, just give them the raw materials and an odd nudge. Like the animals you sensed all those years ago." He said to Melanthios. That was so long ago now. "I even tried to tell them the stories about us... but you know what word of mout his like. By the time they started writing things down they'd changed us almost all of it. Though I have to say they wrote good stories, I often find myself wishing most of them happened."

Melanthios nodded. These beings did seem interesting, and in their own way they were a fine race. He was glad his friend had found a race that suited him, still it would be a problem later. "Have these creatures of yours and the Dues Filli interacted yet?" He asked Zareth, he looked worried.

"Once or twice. Most meetings ended badly." Zareth said plainly in the interest of full disclosure. "The fact that they live on seperate continents seems to have slowed things down and I can't speak for each of the Kalds. Some may be interested in trade if approached properly. Has your king lad not mentioned them?"

The bloody Stryfe swept his opponents feet out from under him and stabbed his staff into the prone fighter's stomach.

"I am afraid Nivix cut our meeting short. I have not yet had the time to visit my children... Wait." He closed his eyes, Maeglin was sending him a message. "Zareth... they killed Perses." Melanthios opened his eyes, he seemed very stressed. "They killed Kains second son." He stared at Zareth, he hoped that he knew what that meant.

Zareth wracked his brain trying to remember the name. It was times like this he was glad he took the time to learn ALL the names and stories of the people who passed through. And the Kami called me mad. He laughed to himelf.

"If I remember right... His patrol managed to kill and wound a few themselves and Perses... reincarnated! If it's any consilation the ones he faught didn't mean to kill him, and they actually got along alright after they were all dead. Most people do."

Melanthios walked towards Zareth, he stopped right in front of him. He stared him right in the eye, and then said. "You don't seem to understand. Mortals don't see it that way, a father wants revenge for the death of his son. And Kain is the number two in the empire, Maeglin won't be able to stop him. There is no possibility for peace or trade, if we don't stop this right now."

Well there was a reason to be skeptical. Zareth had watched the Filli Empire grow enough to know there was nothing that Melanthios or his 'children' couldn't stop. He had no doubt that if Maeglin wanted to he could stop this but he wasn't about to start a fight here and now.

"Then it seems we have to seperate them."

Melanthios nodded. "Or we have to make the leaders talk with one another. Those are the two best options we have right now."

Aen only somewhat listened to their talk. He was focused on the Stryfe who had won and pondered if he had made the right choice after all. That final blow had been... unexpected. He turned to the two gods. "You could just let them sort things out on their own."

Zareth was torn. For so long he had let his people do as they saw fit, he didn't want to be like some of his peers and keep them on a leash... but he knew if he didn't do anything then the supirior technology of the Filli would destroy them. The Stryfe would need divine intervention and he wasn't about to go to war against mortals. Control them or abandon them.

"Or nudge them." He pondered outloud. "There's an ocean separating the two of them, what if we simply made it 'harder' to cross. A buffer instead of a barrier. Make it so it would take years for them to find each other. In that time the Stryfe could grown and change and the Filli would have time to cool off, let the old wounds heal."

Melanthios seemed to think. "That sounds like a good idea....Do you want to fill the ocean with monsters or something? I mean that might distract them, or make them unable to visit each other completely."

"Sounds brilliant!" Zareth barked and wagged his tail. "The brave have a challenge, the foolish have an end and everyone has a new source of Omega three! Besides those leopard seals have been too smug for too long."

Aen flicked his tail. It certainly did sound interesting... perhaps he'd be seeing a lot more adventurers on both sides.

Melanthios nodded. "Indeed, that solves it then. Though we do have to talk, about what monsters we are going to make. We wouldn't want to accidently makes something, that will one day rise up from the sea. And crush both the Dues Filli and the Stryfe... Though it would unite them." Melanthios chuckled.

"Oh I doubt we'll need anything too complicated, seen one sea monster, seen them all." Zareth turned for the coast. "I think we've had enough experience in these matters."

DC11 AP4
Creating or altering a non-sentient species larger than an elephant. Sea Krakens (as opposed to Land Krakens)
A race of huge sea monsters that drag down and devour any large ship that crosses their path.

Zareth: +4 Age (Gotta make those eggs grow up fast!)
Aen: Assist +6 combat (They are made to fight and defend their territory)

Arrogancy · Feb 12, 2013

Vantric: 30, 2

The shield around Salustutis was complete. Good, Vantric nodded. Now then, on to more important things. Such as Nivix. Just as his game with Aen had finished, the mad scientist had shouted through the heavens about fighting Melanthios. He should probably check on his ally, make certain that Nivix hadn't completely disintegrated him.

Vantric summoned forth his powers and focused, sensing Melanthios's position in the universe. He teleported to one of the polar regions on Salustutis, emerging on a snowy landscape. To his surprise, Melanthios was not alone, Zareth and Aen were there as well. Curious. It was even more curious that they weren't trying to kill each other. "Greetings Melanthios, Zareth, Aen." Vantric said, approaching the gods. He conjured himself a thicker coat to shut out the cold, "This place is absolutely frigid. What are you doing here?"

Shortly after his arrival on Salustutis, Vantric heard a voice in his mind. "Another agent is about to be born, please lead me your strength, brothers..." M'endar. Another new agent? Perhaps something useful. Well, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Of course, M'endar. Vantric sent a message in reply, along with some of his power, I never forget my allies.

Conjure a small amount of anything (coat): Effortless

Assist M'endar: +4 Secrets (If The Deceiver's reputation is anything to go by, it's going to involve a LOT of secrecy and obfuscation)

TheBlueShotgun0 · Feb 12, 2013

Bil Makk, Thargol Memorial Naval Base.

"And thus I christian this mighty band of ships, The Hammer Fleet." King Necarten IV announced, and shattered the glass bottle against the bow of the iron clan ship behind him. He turned and shook hands with Admiral Felnuc, commander of the new fleet, as the audience applauded and journalists took pictures. With the ceremony over, they walking off the stage and descended the short stairs. A group of reporters all but tackled them, but a party of soldiers kept them at bay.

"I'm grateful for your appearance, my liege." said the Admiral. "It means a lot to the men, especially in such troubling times."

The King shrugged. "Like you said, it's important." He adjusted his crown. It was a warm day for mid-Autumn, and he could fell the sweat gather on his forehead.

"Still, it can't be easy to just get away these days, sir."

Necarten knew what he was taking about. "Gulvek can handle the rebellion for a week, I'm sure." he said gruffly. He had hoped to get away from talk about the resistance on this trip, but it seemed that it followed him were ever he went. The King waited until they were safely within their tent before continuing. "Besides, there may soon be more pressing matters from beyond the sea."

The Admiral raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean, my King?"

Necarten took a seat at the center table and beckoned for Felnuc to do likewise. "My agents tell me that the Lainir Empire is preparing for war. Apparently, their production of weapons and ammunition has spiked considerably, as has the amount of propaganda. All my advisers tell me it can mean only one thing."

"But sir." said the Admiral. "Not to question your wisdom, but how do we know that we are the target? Perhaps they plan to attack the Humans, or invade Minas Kei. Surly they wouldn't be so brave as to attack us on our own soil."

"I've simply given you the facts, Admiral." the King said. "It is entirely possible that the Empire will attack some other nation, but we must prepare for the worst. This is why I commissioned this fleet in the first place. We must be ready to defend against their air and sea navies."

"If I may say, sir, I think you're just being paranoid."

King Necarten smiled. "I certainly hope you're right."

Val Gren, Hemi District.

"INSURGENT SNIPER!!! GET IN THE BUILDING!!!"

Knight Stevik dove through the window and took cover against the wall. Looking around, he could see that the rest of his squad had also make it into the small store, except... "Where's Rien?" he asked out loud, but got no response. Dissatisfied with the silence, Stevik peered through to broken window and saw a Dwarf in Knight robes dead on the street outside.

"Down!" he heard, and was tackled to the floor. Sure enough, a bullet clanged off the window sill a half-moment later. "What the hell were you thinkin'?" whispered Stevik's commander, the one who had saved him.

"S-sorry, sir." stammered Stevik as he rightened himself, this time careful to stay out of the sniper's line of sight.

"Don't apologize ta me." the elder Knight grumbled, and rallied the squad. "Alright, men. That sniper's got this whole street locked down, which means we ain't goin' no where 'til he's outa the picture. Knights Stev, Otto, and Dek, I need you three to sneak through these buildings and take 'im out. Understood?"

"Yes, sir!" the three Knights replied, though Stevik was less confident then he sounded. Outside, he could hear the screams and shouts of the other squads, and feared winding up like those unfortunate few.

"Then get to it. Head out that door there, and keep yer heads down."

Without further ado, the trio crept out of the little store and through the door into an alleyway. A fire escape lead to another building two stories up, so they shouldered their rifles and climbed. That building connected to another one, and that one to another, so Knight Dek took point and they proceeded towards the sniper's nest, ever mindful of his watching eye.

Their cautious trek went without incident, until they heard voices from the next room over. By Stevik's judgement, they were only a few room from the sniper. As soon as they heard them, the Knights ducked behind cover. Stevik hide behind a sofa, while Otto and Dek took an overturned table and the doorway, respectively. Dek briefly peered through the open door and signaled back 'four'. But one of them must have seen him, because the door frame was promptly poked with four neat bullet holes. Otto and Stevik returned fire while Dek moved to better cover. An enemy bullet impacted the sofa just as Stevik empties his weapon, and he ducked under cover again to reload. He heard Otto's gun click, and assumed he was doing likewise. He jammed the last round into the chamber and worked the lever action; the gun was ready again, but so were the insurgents. He looked over at Dek, who he had almost forgotten about, and saw he was holding a grenade. Stevik went back behind cover and plugged his ears, readying himself for the...

BANG!!!!!

A plume of dust and fire erupted from the other room. "Move, move, move!" Otto shouted, and the three of them ran into the demolished room. Three of the hostiles were no more, but the fourth still clung to life. He had apparently dove behind a coffee table and was now bleeding out from a wound in his leg.

"Hey Fal! Is everything ok over there?!" Stevik heard from the next room over.

"G-g-get in here!" the survivor stammered out, and then saw the approaching Knights. "Come quick! Hurry." He went for a revolver beside him, but the Knights were faster. In a single move, Dek drew his sword, jumped on the rebel, and plunged his blade into his heart. He shuttered and died, the carpet drenched in his blood.

"Guys?" they heard from the next room. "Guys, answer me." The trio took positions on either side of the door, with Stevik closest to it. He readied his dagger. After a moment, the barrel of a sniper rifle poked through the door, followed by the sniper himself. He was looking strait ahead, and so did not see the Knights. In one swift motion, Stevik pivoted to face the insurgent, pushed the rifle out of the way, and stabbed the sniped in the throat. He looked him in the eye as the life left him, and with a final gasp, he died. Stev pulled out the dagger and let the body fall to the floor.

Looking at the dead Dwarf made Stevik think. Just what had prevented him from suffering that same fate? Was it destiny, or simply luck? Was there some sort of divine purpose to all this, or was it all just arbitrary and random? Stevik didn't think he'd like either answer.

"Hey, you alright?" Otto's voice shook Stevik out of his thoughts.

"Umm, nothing. Just thinking, I guess." he replied absentmindedly.

Otto looked down at the body. "Right..." and looked back at Stev. "Well pull it together. We gotta let Sarg. know that the way is clear."

"Right, right." Stev said, and tried to shake his thoughts. But his eyes still lingered on the dead as he walked away.

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