[PDQ] The Grand Mythos Game Thread

[Pappytech]

Northern Continent of Salustutis: Outside of Askeladd's Hold

Thorfinn shivered in the frigid night air, his furs unable to fully keep the stinging cold at bay. His hand, wrapped around the shaft of his spear, was all but numb, and it was only thanks to his impressive willpower that he was able to keep his teeth from chattering up a storm. He would've done almost anything to have a brazier, or even just a torch, at his post, but the Kald had forbidden such luxuries. Something about how light cut down their field of vision or something.

By Kaviken, he hated getting stuck with the night watch! Besides himself and a few other unlucky grunts, everyone else was safely tucked away in their homesteads, warm beneath their blankets and (for the older ones) sleeping off a night's worth of mead and ale. And it wasn't like anything even happened at night anyways... Still, Askeladd was the damn Kald. Until someone managed to take the bastard down a few notches, his orders stood.

Stamping his feet, the irate Stryfe did his best to get his blood pumping again. Spirits take him, this wasn't even fair! He'd had sentry duty three times this week, while that smug Bjorn'd only done it once! He should be the one out here freezing his ass off!

[small]"Dam... ou, da... damn you..."[/small]

What the... Shaking his head, Thorfinn peered out into the darkness, his sharp eyes looking for any irregularities among the snow. He could've sworn he had heard something, something other than the wind, anyways, but it was hard to tell. Could very well just been his head imagining something. And he didn't think he could see anything out ther-

[small]"Damn you, damn you, damn you, damn you, damn you..."[/small]

No, wait, he was definitely hearing someone's voice! But who the hell would be dumb enough to be wandering around this late at night? Looking in the approximate direction the voice was coming from, the sentry squinted, trying to pierce the veil of night. There, clambering over that snowdrift...

"Damn you, damn you, damn you, damn you..."

For a minute, Thorfinn could only gape at the bizarre figure walking towards him. Though it had a similar build, there was no way the stranger was any type of Stryfe he'd ever seen; its body was far too small, and was mostly hairless. And that wasn't even the strangest part! Aside from a pair of ragged leggings, it looked like the creature was entirely naked, and... it didn't have any arms?

"The hell are you?" Thorfinn muttered, taking a few steps towards the strange figure. He'd heard rumors about another race from the far South, short ones that came carrying bizarre weapons. Could this maybe be one of them? But how had it gotten this far north? There were at least a dozen other prominent Holds between here and the ocean; there was no way it could have just sneaked by them.

"Damn you, damn you, damn you, damn you..."

Nevertheless, the creature was here, and it was stumbling closer and closer. Growling, the Stryfe braced himself, leveling his spear in the stranger's direction. "Stop right there, you bastard!" he roared out. "Or prepare to face the spear of Thorfinn Bonesplinter!" (No one actually called him Bonesplinter, but hey, a guy can dream)

If the bizarre figure heard the boast, it didn't seem to react in any noticeable way. Its stumbling pace continued unabated, and it didn't even bother to glance in Thorfinn's direction. All the while, it continued to mumble, though the Stryfe couldn't tell if it was talking to itself or to someone else. Still, one thing was clear: it was going to take a show of force to make this thing stop.

Grinning, Thorfinn cocked his arm back, his spear clutched tightly in his hand. The chilly air, once the only thing he could focus on, began to fade away as he focused on his target, a solid thirty yards away. He may not have been as strong or as fast as some of the other warriors, but if there was one thing Thorfinn took pride in, it was his accuracy. Arrows, axes, spears, so long as he could throw or shoot it, he was a master with the weapon.

With a grunt, the Stfye chucked his weapon, watching its arc with satisfaction. He had adjusted for the slight breeze perfectly, and it looked like he had put just enough strength into the throw.

Sure enough, the spear thudded into the stranger's chest with lethal accuracy. There was a burst of golden (weird color, Thorfinn though) blood as the metal tip tore through the figure's left breast and jutted out of its back. The solid half foot of wood driven through the creature was able to do what the earlier challenge could not, and the creature stumbled to a halt.

Even from this distance, the sentry's sharp eyes could make out the way the figure turned its head, staring blankly at the lance buried in its chest. Thorfinn's lips curled up in a slight grin as he imagined the emotions running through his victim's head. Shock, disbelief, pain, terror, everything that it should feel after being slain by a warrior of his caliber! Heh, he wouldn't be surprised if it just keeled over and died without so much as a peep.

He did not expect it to grab the spear in its mouth, rip it out of its chest, and bite said spear in half.

Thorfinn's already pale complexion whitened even further as the stranger continued to walk forward, apparently not even phased by the hole in its chest. A hole, the Stryfe noted with a growing sense of anxiety, that seemed to be healing at quite the prodigious rate.

...Maybe it would be a good idea to see if Askeladd was awake.

 

[Dogmatic99]

Damn you double post!

 

[Dogmatic99]

Other happenings on Salustutis

Spoiler: Post Petal

Arya plucked something off her head, it was a strange little white thing. She'd never seen anything like it, but then the house had just burst with gifts so that wasn't her biggest concern. It proved it though, she didn't know which but this was the sign of a spirit. A kind one, a rarity among the spirits she knew. "Thank you." She whispered to it, hoping the spirit was listening.

It took them a few days but the little Stryfe family managed to clear and store their new possessions properly. With the last of the hams stored away, Arya was on top of the world.

"We should have enough to last us through storm season and then some." She beamed at Rouf.

"Aye." He grunted.

"Babe should grow up well fed and strong now." she said, trying to break his off putting quietness.

Rouf just sighed. "You heard the older... even with that he wont be like the other Stryfelings."

She couldn't believe it, Arya fought to keep her jaw from going slack. "But... but the food and the things?! He'll be fine, we'll be fine. We can make him strong. He needs us!" He voice cracked a little, she was so close, What did she have to do.

"Even if we do, he'll be a runt, who'll want him?"

"I will!" Arya screamed. That was it she wouldn't lose him, not another one. Rouf was too stubborn and too stupid to see any other way. Just because she was a woman he thought her word meant nothing. Well she'd show him, all that food and rest had gotten her back to good health and she'd seen enough of the world to know how to get a man's respect.

"Take him from me then." She growled.

"What?" Rouf sputtered.

"You heard me." Arya clenched her fists and broadened her stance. "I'll fight you for him."

A woodsman was trudging through the snow when he heard a blazing ruckus from the nearby house. He was about to try and peer in through the window to see what happened when the door flung open and Rouf was sent sprawling onto the ground in front of him. He looked up to see a fierce looking woman looming out of the doorway.

"And stay out!" She roared and slammed the door behind her.

Arya scooped her baby up into her arms and took a seat by the fire. He was sleeping soundly. It had been a few days now, it was about time to get to naming him. He grasped at he hand in his sleep. Her father had only had daughters, she remembered how the Stryfe in his sword band had laughed and said he was cursed. Arya was the only one of her sisters left now, for so long she thought people were right, that her family were cursed. Well his name could live on at least and maybe her boy would do better. She reached into her clothes and pulled out the little white charm.

"This is yours now Grim, it'll keep you safe and well." she whispered to him.

12 years later​

Grim was breathing heavy as he lifted his knees to step through the snow. He had to keep his back straight so he could keep the stick balanced across his shoulders steady. At each end of it hung a bucket full of fish. He'd spent all day at the river and five of the fish had bit him but he'd gotten his best catch yet. Who would have thought that charger treats would have made for such good bait?

The hold was within sight when he felt a sharp stinging sensation on the side of his face. He shook the snow off and tried to see where the laughter was coming from. Suddenly a hail of snowballs were hitting him and something shoved him to the ground. A group of older stryfelings had surrounded him, some of them were grabbing up his catches.

"Those are mine!" Grim yelped and scrambled after them.

They shoved him back down and laughed all the louder. "Little Grim thinks he's a fighter!" One of them managed to kick his leg and the others pelted him with more snow. "Look he's going to cry!" They jeered.

Grim's cheeks were burning and his eyes welling up. "No I'm not!" He yelled back, trying to hold back the tears and failing. They were all so much bigger than him, well this wouldn't be like the other times. He was sick of the bigger lads always beating him up. He grabbed the stick he used to carry his things and swung out at them. They all laughed more and goaded him all the more. Grim held his stick out in front of him defiantly.

With their attention focused on each other, none of the strylings noticed a white fox slinking around the trees on the edge of the clearing, gazing on the scene with his deep black eyes.

Grim let out a mighty battle cry - for something as small as him anyway - and charged them head on, his weapon raised high above his head. His bullies were a little suprised and he managed to get in a few hits. They crowded round him but Grim fought like a wild animal, flailing everywhere. He hit them round the shoulders and face. He even managed to bloody one of their lips but in the end he was overpowered and sent sprawling on the ground. The other stryfelings were angry now, one of them planted a foot on the back of Grim's head and shoved his face into the snow. They gave him a few kicks and gathered up the rest of his fish.

Suddenly the white fox leapt from edges of the forest and bounded up to Grim, standing defiantly over the fallen boy. He growled angrily at the bullies, his dark eyes flashing with rage.

The older boys were taken aback by the sudden arrival of the snarling animal. The largest of them, who wanted to seem brave, tried to scoff at it. "Stupid fox." He said, throwing a fish at its head before turning to leave.

The fox nimbly dodged the fish and then leapt into action, diving after the boy with a savage growl. He sunk his teeth firmly into the styfeling's backside and bit down hard into the soft flesh.

"Yoooowww!" Cried out the Stryfeling. The others, seeing their leader beaten, ran off. The bitten one stumbled and bled everywhere. He looked into the fox's eyes for a moment, longer than was comfortable. He clutched the one fish he had left to his heart and ran off, tears streaming down his face.

A few paces away, Grim righted himself. He saw the beast biting the boy and clutched his stick, trying to make himself look big. His other hand reached for the white charm his ma had hung round his neck as if it could protect him.

The fox watched the bullies flee with a satisfied grunt and then slowly turned around and began to pad towards Grim, studying him closely.

"Wasn't it funny when I got to bite his butt?" the beast suddenly said happily, a grin appearing across his canine face.

Grim's jaw nearly hit the floor. He opened and closed his mouth wordlessly like a fish gasping for air until finally he said "Guh...wah?"

He shook his head and blinked hard, trying to wake himself up from what must have been a dream. "What are you?" He trembled.

"I'm the fox that just saved you, what do I look like?" the creature replied cockily and strode up to the boy, "What are you?"

"Um Um... I'm Grimnir sir, Mr Fox, sir. Everyone calls me Grim though." It didn't seem like it wanted to eat him. "Are... are you a spirit?"

"I'm not just a boring spirit, I'm Roe!" the fox exclaimed, deciding it was time to drop the mysterious attitude.

"Who?" Blurted Grim and he instantly regretted it. Only an idiot offended a spirit, especially one that saved you.
Roe looked disappointed and sighed, "Some people call me Kaviken but it's really not fair because I always tell them that my name is Roe and they never listen!"

"You're whaaaaat?!" Grim lay down on all fours trying his best to bow. "I'm sorry for not realising sooner Sir! Kaviken! Roe! IT's just... well you don't look like you normally do on the story stones." He grabbed one of the fish and held it out to the fox. "Please accept my humble offering!"

Roe patted the fish away with a slight smirk, amused by the boy's panic. "It's okay, I don't mind," he reassured him before adding, "What do I look like in the stories then?"

"Oh... well normally you have bigger fangs and there are these swirly marks on your fur and... well stuff. There are a few story stones over the ridge." Grim pointed into the nearby woods. "Here I'll show you!" The little Stryfe had regained some of his courage, he may not have been able to beat the others but he could at least impress a grand spirit.

He lead the fox to a nearby hill. At the top there was a circle of standing stones covered in intricate carvings. "This is you, see?" Grim pointed to the carving of a fox standing proudly among a bizzare mixture of beings and creatures.

"Huh, there's no way my tail is that big!" Roe exclaimed when he saw the carvings but otherwise he was impressed by their lifelikeness. "I liked it when you were fighting those mean bullies," he added, "Bad people make me very angry,"
"
Thanks!" Grim grinned proudly. "It's nothing I'm not used to, I'm kinda small for my age so everyone thinks they can take me easy. I try not to let them though, you have to prove you're worth something. My ma says the spirits took a liking to me." He showed the white charm like it was his greatest trophy. "She said they helped me when I was little, and you have to prove you're worth the spirit's time. You'll see Ka - I mean Roe - I'll lead a sword band one day and then I'll be Kald of the whole hold!"

"Oh..." Roe replied in surprise when he saw the white charm, recognising it as one of Petal's flowers. Was it that which brought me here? he thought. He put a paw on Grim's shoulder. "I bet you'd make a really a good Kald, but don't be like one of those people who when they become powerful they forget why they wanted to be a leader in the first place and then do bad things,"
Grim nodded solemnly as he listened to the fox's words. His ma always told him to listen to olders and a spirit like this must be ancient.

"I promise Roe, every other Kald gets killed because someone hates them because they're mean and all they want to do is break and kill things. I figure if you're nice then people won?t want to kill you, that they'll want me in charge but to do that I have to prove I'm strong. So I'll train and I'll fight and if people want to be mean like those other lads when I'm Kald then I'll fight them too!"

He pointed at one of the carvings of the fox that was Roe. It was leading an armoured figure, holding a sword up high and covered in runes like the ones Aen wore. "It's like when you and Yorvengand saved the Kalds daughter from the charger king! And you only asked for a steak in return!"

"Oh yeah, only a steak..." Roe replied with a sly grin and then looked up again with a more serious expression. "I promised Petal that I would be back by now so I have to go, maybe we'll meet again some day though when you're Kald. Just remember, power can make you badder and lots of power can make you lots of badder!" With that the fox leaped down the hill and within a few moments disappeared into the trees.

Grim stared in amazement as the fox spirit. He stood there looking into the forest trying to see where it went. His young mind whirring with excitement and awe. He promised he would remember what the fox had told him, that he'd work harder and prove to everyone that he was someone of great note. He looked on the world with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
Then he remembered the fish he'd lost.

"Aaaaw, Ma's gunna kill me!"

Spoiler: A Stranger calls at the hold

Flight shot out of the webway that separated the living realm and Evermoor, leaving a sporadic trail of light tipped feathers in her wake. On her master's command she swooped in on the hold, her eyes honing in on the strange thing moving through the grounds. Even to her it smelt wrong.

The long hall doors swung open and the robed Stryfe was ushered in. They almost seemed to glide across the rough cobbled floor. All their features hidden, their entire body hidden under their stinking rags. They polity asked for an audience with the Kald, they whispered something in the guards ears... no one heard it but they seemed very persuasive. They were let in immediately and strolled casually into the bustling main room. Kald Kromstern was sitting in his hair, surrounded by armoured stryfe all trying to out talk each other. The newcomer cleared their throat with surprising volume, drawing all their attention to them.
All the while a dark winged bird watched from the rafters.

"Can a weary traveler ask for a helping of bread and milk as the ways of guesthood do say so say." The stranger said with a voice like blades on glass.

"How did you get in?" Grumbled one of the larger stryfe. "Get out beggar!" They motioned for a pair of guards with spears to remove them.

"Oh but dearest sir I have so much to say." Sneered the traveler. They pulled back their hood, revealing a pair of bloodshot eyes and a tapestry of scars. But the most striking feature was the rot. The left side of their jaw was withered... as if it was decomposing. That wicked face smiled with malicious courage, staring down the entire room.

"Death caller!" Came the cry and in a heartbeat every blade in the room was pointed at the smiling caller.

"Ah ah ah..." Chided the the rotting stryfe as if they were speaking to a group of rowdy children. "You will not want to do that dear Kald. I come with great tidings and a once in a lifetime offer." They spoke like a theatre mummer from Evalon.

"What the hell are you rambling about?" The Kald asked accusingly, not bothering to leave his chair.

"Why dear Kald Kromstern, great power is within your reach. Surely you have seen how their are young blades nipping at your heels? Surely you must see how larger holds, brutal Kalds, are baying for your blood? Surely you have seen how the nights close in, how the sun grows ever more bitter? The time of ill tidings is upon us but the great spirits of beyond and fallen have lead me here! They have lead me to you! You may become Kald of Kalds if only you reach out and take it! If only you hear this weary sage speak and offer him his bread and milk as a great Kald would." The last part was ended with a smug grin and the Caller bowed to their gawping audience.

The Kald was at least intrigued. "Fetch him his food, I'll hear what he has to say."

"But Kald you can't be-" But the protests were cut short.

"Now I say!" Roared the Kald and the caller smiled so widely a piece of their skin cracked.

Later that night.​

"Come my brothers and sister!" cried the caller. The depths of the cave rang out with his voice. "We must prepare, we shall have a Kald joining us tonight!" The cheer went up from his fellows. "We must prepare!" They roared, taking a place on crop of rocks.

The others began to light fires and chant, they raised their heads and disrobed, revealing their ravaged bodies, covered in scars, brands and rotting flesh. They called out to the dead. Some chanted, some sang, others howled and moaned like mad wolves. The air became ripe with dark power and shuddered as if nature itself was repulsed.

"They thought to burn us out! They thought to kill us off like dogs! They thought to drive us into the storms and leave us to die in the ice lands! But we are born from stronger things! We are made from the nightmares they try to hide! Hear us now, unspoken spirits, hear your children!" The chanting had gotten louder and louder, building to a horrific peak!

"Hear us and answer our call!"

Spoiler: Action:

Prayers are given to summon a spirit of the dead and darkness. Unknown to the callers their prayers go out to Aryx.

 

[Belmarc]

Ren 8/8

The beaten god had fled without acknowledging her presence. Not that she minded. It was much simpler to ignore others and continue on without them. Ren checked that the Arena was fixing itself nicely. Every time that god battled here, he caused a mess. No control whatsoever. She walked on the edge of the area, checking for cracks. Satisfied that she found none, the spirit turned to leave. Then she got a message from Aen. Sighing internally (not that she could sigh externally anymore), she began to prepare for his second request. He wasn't a bad god to serve, but she couldn't get past how she felt about him. There was something about him that frightened her, made her feel she couldn't trust him completely. It made her feel guilty, because he'd never shown her anything but kindness, yet he invaded her nightmares.

Ren held up her hand and a small container of glass appeared. Ren let the tendrils of her spirit reach out across the Arena, gathering droplets of blood filled with residual fighting spirit and willpower. She funneled the substance into the container, conjuring a stop and capping it when she had enough. Then she teleported it away.

Aen 20/30 1/2

Once they got far enough away from the mortals, Aen took on his usual form, inspecting the arm piece he'd recently created. He sent a message to Ren, and it didn't take long for the blood filled glass to appear in his hand. He'd stop expecting Ren to answer him, but had come to rely on her help. It wasn't ideal, but he didn't mind. The fact that she listened at all was better than he'd ever expected. Perhaps she'd never trust him, but he could still rely on her. Now for what he'd wanted it for.

The small glass fit in perfectly, as Ren had made it exactly the way he'd wanted her to. The blood inside began to glow as it connected with the gauntlet. Gold, purple, red, blue, green, and plenty of colors in between. He invoked the power Venator had left behind to bring her personality back, and the tubes shaped in runic symbols filled with his own blood began to glow in tune with that within the phial. Hopefully the will inside the blood he'd gathered would be enough.

<spoiler=Actions>
Raise a demi-god, DC 15, cost 6 AP
+4 Runic (using the runic symbols on the gauntlet) +4 Fire Within (Using Venator's old domain to bring back her personality, using the survivor's instinct in the blood shed from battle)

 

[Floris2123]

Melanthios 23 AP, 0 MP

Melanthios teleported himself to his library, he was glad to be done with that conversation. And he was glad he didn't have to fight Aen.. Though it would have been amusing. But he needed some peace right now, his next project required his full attention."Another agent is about to be born, please lead me your strength, brothers..." It seemed M'endar needed his help first. Well that was no problem, helping his allies was something he enjoyed doing. He started a spell, and combined that with the power of his orb. It began to take on a strange black liquid form, but under M'endar's guidance it would shape into a new demigod. He send it to him, and then grabbed one of his robes from the closet.

He placed it on the table and smiled, this robe would soon be filled with a new power. He summoned one of the pieces of Nivix power, and placed it on top of the robe. But even with all his power focused on this project, it would still be very hard.. he had to ask someone for help, yes the help of one god should be enough.... Like his brother M'endar. He grinned as he send him an message. "I hope my assist will aid you, to create yet another powerful apprentice. I hope that in return, you will lend your help to me. I am planning to make an item, unlike any the universe has seen before. And I would very much appreciate your help with this project, M'endar."

And with that out of the way, it was finally time for the merger. He began conjuring up a spell, which would bind the two items together. He looked at his orb, which was helping him with creating his new item. He wondered how much stronger his new item would be than the orb. He then focused back on the spell, and began pumping even more magic into it. He was happy that he knew a few things about the subject, and he also knew that without M'endar's help he would have a big problem. But he was sure his brother would help him, after all he was probably his most trusted friend.

Spoiler: Actions

Teleporting to the library
Difficulty: Effortless

Assisting M'endar with his demigod creation
Domains: + 6 Arcane magic (the power which will fuel its creation) + 2 Creation (The creation of his core)

Send a message to M'endar
Difficulty: Effortless

Creating a + 4 science item:
The Robe of Science
Difficulty: 19
Cost: 4 AP, 1 MP
Domains: + 6 Arcane magic (The magic which binds the robe and the power) + 4 Wisdom (The wisdom of how to bind things together) + 2 Creation (Combing two things, to create one new thing. )

Spoiler: Robe

http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/the-dar...onnor-post-apocalyptic-assassin-photo?ir=true

 

[Terratina.]

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

M'endar was puzzled. Its plea for help was only answered with silence. But then a orb of power flew over the horizon to meet the Deceiver. M'endar smiled, help had come at last. It knew what to do. It grabbed the orb and thrust it into the chaotic vortex of power. The soon-to-be demigod was now in a state of flux. His mortality was now being stripped away, the body now but a discarded shell. But what was this? It was being reabsorbed into the essence. The long arms and face were stained with the black ooze from the birth fluid and the scars were still there, but apart from that the body was in good condition. Suddenly it was knocked back by a scream from the soon-to-be demigod. The mouth and eyes just holes from which you could see the divine essence within. M'endar took this opportunity to answer Melanthios's message.

"I hope my assist will aid you, to create yet another powerful apprentice. I hope that in return, you will lend your help to me. I am planning to make an item, unlike any the universe has seen before. And I would very much appreciate your help with this project, M'endar."

"A favour for a favour then? Why, of course. As that is how this alliance of ours works."​

It conjured up an orb of energy of its own. Black and ever shifting in a chaotic pattern, pretty to the eyes. But if any mortal dared to stick their hand in it, they would soon see their flesh became corrupted before their very eyes. With a flick of the wrist, it sent the orb to Melanthios. A little later, a surge of Vantric's power engulfed the body of the demigod. As usual it sent a reply. The parts were in place now... All the demigod needed was time. Time to rise up and...

"Thank you. We must meet soon, friend. Many wheels are beginning to turn..."​

Spoiler: Actions/OOC

Send a message to Melanthios - DC = Effortless

Send a message to Vantric - DC = Effortless

Assist Melanthios with his item creation

Bonus(es):

- Corruption [+4] (

Corrupting Nivix's power into serving Melanthios.

)

- Chaos [+4] (

Manipulating the chaotic raw power so it is stored within the robe.

)

 

[Dogmatic99]

Zareth: 24 , 2

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

Agents... of course.

But M'endar had been so long away and the bridges that bonded Zareth and his brothers had started falling into disrepair. He made note to check on his shadow brother as soon as his business was concluded. Melanthios had already left but his actions could be felt across void of space. How far apart they seemed to have grown...so many secrets. well that would change as well, provided Zareth's plans went as he hoped.

All the while he felt an ethereal energy gathering around Aen. Part of it felt familiar, like a presence he had not felt for thousands of years. And here was Zareth, thinking he had a monopoly on things like that.

I see what you're doing there.

Spoiler: Action

Assist Aen: +6 death (After all we're bringing back an echo of someone long dead.)

Assist M'endar: +4 age (Immortal Demigods can't be seen going gray can we?)

Assist Melanthios: +2 Crafter (Let's give that robe some trim! Though Zareth probably wont win best tailor in heaven any time soon)

 

[JoJo]

Golden Orchid - Somewhere in Almia

Aside from a small grimy window embedded in the ceiling of the attic, only a few candles provided the dim light for the four figures sat around a table, all rapt in debate. None noticed a pair of glowing eyes watching them from the darkness of a corner. Above the group hung a framed pamphlet, it's edges yellowing with age.

By the Grace of Aen and Roe, His Imperial Majesty Emperor Valor IV of Humanity, King of Chama, Chief of the Changeling Clans, Head of the Rowan and Heir of the Mandate of the Bride, hereby declares by decree that belonging to, aiding or abetting the rebellious organisation known as the Fellowship is to be from the 15th of M'endari in the year one thousand nine hundred and ninety six of the White Flower onwards considered treason against the Imperial Crown, for which the penalty is death.​

"The Eldarwen option is too risky!" the middle-aged Rowan exclaimed, his beard streaked with grey. He was Golden Bear, founder of the Fellowship. "Even if it is possible, we would have to find a Changeling of the Kin clan willing to sacrifice himself."

The Kinderven boy known as Shrew, simultaneously the oldest and youngest of the group, shook his head. Despite his apparent eleven years of age he was at-least five centuries old and an experienced military tactician.

"There are lots of angry young men out there who would die for the Revolution and the greater good. Besides, people like a martyr."

"We already have more than enough martyrs!" the Rowan replied gruffly and an awkward silence fell over the group. After a moment it was broken by the thirty year old Changeling to his left, slender and well-dressed. He went by the name of Laren of the Grey Tide and was one of the Fellowship's primary sources of income.

"Damn, why did we even send Orchid to that place? I wonder if it's happened yet..."

"You know she was the best infiltrator we had," the Ekiruru to the right replied coldly. She was Freed Ayakin, one of the rare lucky Minas who had been bought and then released from bondage. "She knew the risk and took the mission regardless. Besides, we all know how much she wanted to be reunited with her wife, now she has that."

"How can you say that?" Laren replied, "We took advantage of her grief and sent her to her death, we're hardly anyway better than them..."

"It was a risk," Bear interrupted, "It didn't pay off, that's all there is to it." Silence descended once again over the gathering, each individual hoarding their own thoughts. The figure hiding in the shadows decided now was the time to make an entrance.

"I wouldn't be so sure about that," Golden Orchid said as she hopped out from the corner and padded up to the table. Within moments stunned silence quickly changed into screams and shouts.

 

[DarkRawen]

Dåre 30,2


It went several hundred meters underneath the sea, this hole. It looked like a small glass tube, albeit it was magic and not glass that kept it in that round shape. Suddenly, the water-walls around him stopped, as did all the ocean. Underneath him was a world of strange colors. Everything had a color unlike the normal ones, the grass was a strange turquoise color, and the small lakes, positioned exactly where the islands were above the ocean, reflected the sky of water and sea-creatures.

Water reflecting water, how strange. Some of the mountains in the distance seemed to be almost tall enough to touch the ocean sky, but only almost. The lighting was strange, but calming. Colors like yellow and red seemed gone from the world, or extremely muted. Around this strange little world inside another, there was not a lot of weather, yet one part was filled with soft snow that didn't melt nor was it frozen, yet it was definitely snow. If only because it was snow. It looked like crystal powder in the wind, but it never went outside one particular area, as if stopped by someone. Then there was the strange lights in the sky above the largest lake, violet and a strange color which seemed to be one between red and blue, yet not a known color.

Beautiful sunsets could be seen through the water, as it if was a one way window to the outside world. Somehow, this was a dark world, yet a light one, being rather warm even so. Hidden caves and strangely shaped forests, colorful and as mad as madness itself. The lakes themselves were a source of madness, as anyone who drank from them became delirious, and saw the strange world as even stranger. Even gods themselves, Dåre found out, could be affected by it, should they want to. Yet another world, beautiful, but filled with eyes and the strange presence of madness herself, as if she was right behind you. She never was, yet the emotion Dåre felt was a warm, happy, yet sad one. Longing after what could never be.

There was weather there, like the never-ending droplets of water that fell from the sky at every waking hour, slowly, barely noticeable apart from the soft, wonderful sound of them hitting the ground. Then there was the warm winds, strong enough to lift a creature up from the ground, yet never doing so, as if it didn't dare to. One particular kind, only found on the northern part of the continent, glowed in the dark and shone in the day. This wind had a color, never the same one, yet always a soft one, painting the air with a soft green, then a subtle blue.

Then there was the trees and animals. Large, yellow flowers, bigger than a house grew close to some of the lakes, smaller animals, like loud, raptor-like creatures with a lot of hair, and different birds. Some of them resembled the cage of doves, only with a slight pink or blue color. There were trees with hats, growing on fleshy limbs, and small cat-like creatures, only with the lower part of a bird. Small, long creatures with the face of a puppy, and the skin and body of a lizard. And countless more.

One particular creature that Dåre happened upon in his travels, a strange, medium sized baby-bird with a white feathers, blue beak and legs the same color, followed him, running where he flew with his carpet. As he got closer to see it, it jumped on his carpet. What a strange creature indeed, it couldn't speak to him either, apart from happily chirping as he fed it the fruits of a tree found nearby, which only had the effect of being so delicious that all you'd want to do was eating them. The bird seemed not to mind at all. "Do you want to be my friend?" he asked it, it seemed to want this, as it was very friendly. He wanted to take it along, but it would perhaps not survive outside this strange part of the planet. "I know." Dåre laid his hand on the creature, hopefully this would work. He then tried to make it into a demigod.

Spoiler: Actions

Turn a mortal or creature into a demigod: DC 15 AP 6

Domains: +6 Madness (This is a creature of madness, in form rather than in mind. This is also a spur of the moment thing, not thought out at all or planned, simply an act by a friendly, crazy god )

+6 Charming (This creature will be loved by those who come across it.)

Demigod: +4 Dearly Beloved (Loved by those it meets, this demigod will always have a place in people's hearts and memories)

-2 Just a Bird (Even if it is a demigod, this doesn't mean it can communicate with mortals through speech, nor is it as intelligent as other demigods.)

 

[Floris2123]

Melanthios 23 AP, 0 MP

Melanthios was busy with his spell, when he suddenly felt something familiar. He focused to feel it was Daare, creating a demigod. A smile spread across his face, it had been too long since he had seen him. "Hello Daare, it is me Melanthios. I am sorry about having been away for so long, I was healing from my wounds. I hope this will help you with creating your first demigod, and I hope to see you again soon." Melanthios grabbed the orb and focused, a small flicker of pure creation was send to Daare. He looked up at the sky, wondering where Daare was and how he had been. He then looked back at the spell, he wasn't done just yet.

Spoiler: Actions

Sending a message to Daare
Difficulty: Effortless

Assisting Daare with his demigod creation.
Domains: + 2 Creation (The flicker of creation will be the core, from which the demigod is made)

 

[Belmarc]

Aen 20/20, 1/2

Aen smiled sheepishly at Zareth. He hadn't considered that this would be a way of cheating death, but perhaps his friend wouldn't think so. Still, he felt his aid, and nodded his thanks. Across the universe, he felt others igniting with power. Melanthios, M'endar, even Dåre. I didn't even notice the slimy devil slink off. Next time, he'd have to watch the Magic God more carefully. Still, there was no reason to withhold his aid because he was making something himself.

It took a moment before he even noticed the new arrival. "Ah! Hello Vantric! Welcome to this icy-waste wonderland!"

<spoiler=Action>
Assist Daare
+2 Chivalry (Giving the demi-god the nature to want to protect it's new friend) +6 Combat (Giving it the capability of doing so, should it need to)

 

[JoJo]

The Storyteller

The Storyteller continued his tale, gesturing his hands wildly as he recounted the many events of the early Fourth Age.

"Auctor inspired a small group of Minas Ekiruru to spread across Evalon and open diplomatic channels with the other civilisations of the planet. Meanwhile in the city, Ven created a terrible plague which struck at the minds of the synthetic Ekiruru, turning the vast majority of their kind dangerously insane. A few hundred miles south, Zs'Wua enchanted the throne room of the Emperor of Humanity to make subsequent rulers even poorer than the already notoriously ineffective one who sat on the throne then.

Not only that but three new demigods were to emerge in this epoch, M'endar raised an angry Changeling into a new agent to serve it, Daare granted divinity upon a small bird of Ilea and Aen converted his gauntlet into a demigod that would be permanently bound to his arm for all time.

Meanwhile upon Salustutis Zareth created a new race of giant sea monsters who were designed to drag down and devour any large ship that crosses their path, they would be known as the Sea Kraken. Melanthios used one of the domains claimed from Nivix to summon up the Robe of Science, a powerful magic garment that would help further knowledge."

 

[Dogmatic99]

They grow up so fast...

Grim never told anyone about meeting the great fox, but still, after that day everyone who met him say a difference. there was a drive behind everything he did, a fire in his eyes. He threw himself into everything with all of his energy. It wasn't enough for him to stand his ground against the boys that bullied him, he threw himself into countless fights on behalf of those that were treated like he was. This earned him some close friends over the years and even the begrudging respect of his olders but mostly it earned him a lot of bruises.

But thanks to his mother's care and the exercise from his various brawls Grim grew strong. He became the grown stryfe that people said he'd never be. He even grew to a whopping average height (for a stryfe that is). He never forgot the words Kaviken said to him, or the promise he made on the story stones. When the time came, and he was old enough, Grimnir joined his peers in the hold provings and took his chance to become a part of his Kald's sword bands.

It was the largest proving battle in over twenty years but when it ended Grim stood among the victors. He had shown great spirit, endurance and ability and received the honour of earning a place in the Kald's vanguard. It was the proudest day of his life.

Spoiler: We didn't know it then but this is when everything changed.

"AAAARRRGGHHHH!" Grimnir screamed as he slammed his axe into the other stryfe's skull, splitting it like firewood.

The battering ram crew had shattered the opposing gate and the main force was swarming in behind him, Grimnir pressed on to join up with the small cluster of Vanguard he came in with. When he caught up with them they were clashing with a few brutes outside what looked like a smiths. Grim came in from the side and swung his weapon into the lower back of one while his comrade had them distracted. They quickly finished the skirmish.

"How you finding your first time with the grappling crews, Grimnir?" One of them called out with a grin.

"Liked it better on the walls better view!" They all laughed.

He'd been placed with the grappling hook teams when he earned his place in the van. They were made and trained to fight in cramped conditions and fighting against greater numbers. They were probably tougher than even the Kald guard... only nicer. They had welcomed Grim into the fold with open arms and it was a rare crew that could shout banter back and fourth in the middle of battle.

"Come on, don't want the rabble to grab all the glory do we?" One of them yelled and the team scrambled on, ready for more.

As he main force flooded through the streets all semblance of strategy crumbled. The defenders of the hold clashed with the invading forces and small fights within fights broke out all over the streets and in every building. They held on to the best of their ability but the numbers were against them and as sure as the sun rises the defenders fell. bit by bit.

Grim's crew received a runner message that more hands were needed at the long hall, someone had barricaded it shut and the occupants had some bows and spears that were keeping the steps to it clear. As they got to the crossroads at the base of the Kald's steps they were greeted by a scene of sheer chaos. Arrows and spears were raining down everywhere, there was fighting in the buildings and a second wave of guards were rushing down to clash against the shield wall on the eastern road. From there they were split up.

Grimnir was sent to finish the fights in the houses, along with the others he mopped up the remaining resistance. Orders were flying all around him. People were shouting about how their flank was being battered, how they needed to get the high ground, how they couldn't get past the archers on the hill. A point that was quickly reinforced when an arrow whizzed past Grim's face, leaving a red streak across his cheek.

"Found some shields!" He heard someone shouted and he looked to see a group of screaming people being dragged from one of the burning buildings. None of them were fighters, they were stryfelings, olders, by the way some of them clutched at the little ones there were mothers among them.

"Get them out of here, they'll only get in the way!" Grim barked, barging in on the scene.

"We can use them. Damn archers wont fire on their own, we can get up there and burn that door down!"

They had a point they were getting penned in on all sides and it wouldn't be long before the second wave broke through and they lost most of their number. But they weren't fighters, they weren't threats.

"You can't do that." He said, no, he stated.

"You got any better ideas?"

"Everything's a better idea compared to that."

"Well we aint got much choice! If you want one for yourself then feel free but we need to act!" The stryfe grabbed one of the women from the pack of prisoners and hauled her to her feet like an offering. She looked so scared.

Grim felt an itching on his chest, he reached to scratch it absentmindedly and his hand found the white charm he hung around his neck. A spirit had taken pity on him once, shown him kindness when he couldn't defend himself, when he couldn't stand on his own. The words of the fox were ringing in his ears.

Grimnir leveled his axe at the other stryfe. "Put her down." He growled.

The warrior just laughed in disbelief. Boy, you can't be serious?"

The cold stare Grim gave him said he wasn't. The air between them was even more tense than before as the other stryfe shoved the woman to the ground and stepped forward. "Just got your axe and you think you can stand with the battle proven?"

"You walk away from here and you leave them alone..."

"And who's going to make me?"

"I will!" roared Grimnir.

All through the hold, battle was raging. But at its heart was a fight between two stryfe supposed to be on the same side. One fighting for what they thought was right, another for glory and gain. their axes clashed and the metal sang out in harmony with their battle cries. Other stryfe were drawn to the conflict. Some were confused, a few called for it to stop. Most cheered on the spectacle. But they were not the only ones who were drawn to this conflict, the sounds of battle carried further than any mortal in that hold would have thought.

Spoiler: Action

A 'prayer' is given to Aen.

Why he might be interested: A duel breaks out in the middle of a battlefield between to warriors that started on the same side(Combat). For what might be the first time in their people's history, a stryfe is committing an act of pure, selfless, chivalry, defending a group of people who cannot defend themselves even though they are on opposite sides.

 

[Belmarc]

<spoiler=Vantric, Aen, and Zareth>
"Ah! Hello Vantric! Welcome to this icy-waste wonderland!"

"I like my water icy, Aen." Vantric replied, pulling his cloak tighter about him. Such inconveniences he had to suffer, he was a GOD damnit! "This is blizzardous. What are you doing here, anyway?" He had hoped to check up on Melanthios, but if he was well enough to teleport away from the god who hated him, then he was probably well enough to not die too terribly soon.

"I'm surprised to see both of you here, actually. It's been a while, Zareth." Vantric nodded to the death god.

Zareth returned the gesture. "Recent events have called for me to spend more time in the living world." He looked down into the raging waves. The eggs he had planted were already hatching. It was funny to think that in only a few years this planet had gone from being barren of extra life to swarming with giant predators.

"That doesn't exactly explain what you two are doing here." Vantric said, following Zareth's gaze. The dark waves lapped the beaches. Overhead, some birds flew cawing aimlessly. Life teemed in nearby forests. It might have been a good scene were it in a better climate. "I don't suppose you've come to bury the hatchet with Melanthios?" Unlikely, but the fact that Melanthios was still walking and seemingly intact said that things could have gone infinetly worse.

"He hasn't handed Amour over yet." Aen kept glancing down at his arm, to make sure everything was working smoothly, though he tried to focus on Vantric while talking to him. "You can imagine that I'd be very interested in seeing that done, now that it has been, oh, a thousand years."

"To be fair, I don't think anyone has much seen Melanthios this millenium." Vantric replied, turning back to the pair. Melanthios...That was a problem for another day. Though 'another day' might soon be fast approaching. "In any case, the return of the item is something that would be...contentious at best. Especially with the bad blood between you two." That was putting the situation very, very mildly, but keeping hte peace between his two assests was something worth working on.

"I'm inclined to agree Aen." Zareth chimed in. "He's only just resurfaced and already people are shooting daggers at each other. If the minutes I was given are anything to go buy then this peace was hard won."

rytnnnnrezuiphghgujjj!

Damned necromancers were at it again. Zareth tensed up and drove the noise out. "Excuse me." He said, twinging.

Aen shook his head. "He claims to not even know where it is, though whether he truly expects me to believe that or not, I don't know. He could have sent it to Zareth with one of his many demi-gods. No, he's putting it off, and I agreed to stop seeking his punishment him on this condition. What he is doing is dishonorable and insulting, and I am only putting up with it because I don't wish to see war." The battle god gave his friend a worried look, but said nothing.

Zareth buried the bile like sensation building behind his eyes and gave the pair a casual smile. He'd see to that cult in time. "All things in their time." He said, trying to sound sagely.

Vantric kicked some of the snow. This was not good. "I will attempt to deal with him. Perhaps he will be more...amenable to a request from me." If Aen moved against Melanthios, who would move with him? Melanthios was playing a dangerous game, if he didn't learn soon, then alternative solutions might need to come into effect. "Things will happen in their own time, yes." Zareth was right. How right, only time would tell.

Aen paused, but nodded his head in approval. "Thank you, Vantric. I do not want things to come to blows, but he is proving to be testing to deal with on this matter."

"I am a paragon of peace." He said, spreading his arms, "I truly hope that we don't once more devolve into the destructive state of war." That wasn't strictly true, but, it was true enough. He wanted to keep war down, it made dealing with his opponents easier.

The battle god laughed. "Peace? Coming from the one who brought Isond and Aryx together? There has been more bickering between those two in the last thousand years than I've ever seen."

"Immortals can be so stubborn." Zareth said absent mindedly. "I remember what Car was like when we first got Flight. Classic only child syndrome"

Vantric rolled his eyes, "Trust me, you have no idea. Sometimes I feel more like a celestial babysitter with those two around. It's a miracle that they haven't tried to kill each other yet...Well, kill each other with any success. Still, I stand by the principle, in time of peace, prepare for war. I can only imagine what those two get up to in their spare time."

"Times of peace inevitably lead to war in my experience. But war can lead to peace. If the Stryfe have taught me anything it's give war a chance."

Beneath his feet the sea creatures were taking shape and developing a hunger. Zareth tapped into it, anything to distract him from the buzzing in his ears. He looked at Vantric... and saw the bickering Isond and Aryx united, standing over Vantrics corpse. I may need to meditate... or kill something.

"For all the war we've had over the last age, this peace should last us a while longer yet." Hopefully, the need for war would be obsolete soon. Once the more...radical elements had been removed. "Still, all things considered, this peace has been fairly quiet. Until recently we haven't had any problems with enforcing it."

"That's because most of us were asleep." Zareth remembered the bed he made for himself in Evermoor. He still hadn't slept in it yet.

"Regardless, a thousand years of peace is no mean feat. Not least when you consider who agreed to it." Given some of the others in the pantheon, Vantric wouldn't be surprised if they found a way to keep fighting in their sleep.

"Nivix..." Aen whispered. "I don't think he'll be fighting any time soon, if that is what you are worried about." He couldn't help but sound sad. The state Melanthios had left him in... and as weakened as the god was, he couldn't seem to figure out where he had gone.

"Yes, I heard. Terrible what happened. A battle of some sort with Melanthios, yes?" He tsked, "Shame." Not really, Nivix was far from the most stable of the gods. He'd likely destroy himself and/or someone/everyone else if he weren't kept in check.

"Hopefully things wont be any less... interesting now." That was what Nivix was fond of saying wasn't it?

"Interesting..." Vantric said, "No...In fact things should be getting more interesting in fact."

"What do you mean?" He was able to focus. If Vantric thought things were about to get interesting... well, that was worth listening carefully to.

Vantric shrugged, "It's just a feeling. Pay me no mind. I've been studying the mortals recently, they're preparing for something. Possibly worth watching, at least I will be."

 

[Terratina.]

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

A final burst of energy engulfed the scene. It seems that Zareth had responded to the plea as well. It looked down as it realised that it had been more than an Age since that chat in the Hallowed Court. Maybe a little chat could help repair that derelict bridge. But that would be for later. A final thank you was sent as the demigod began to emerge...

Spoiler: Action(s)/OOC

Send a message to Zareth. - DC - Effortless

??? - 8/8 AP


Swirling, seething, searching. One moment you are throwing stones at helpless animals and the next you are plunged into darkness. Just what was happening now!? Pain, more pain. Whatever this was, it was more painful than his Changing. He grunted at the memory of the sudden growth spurts and aches. His eyes widened as he realised what in fact was happening. He was being torn apart. Immediately he began to fight against the tide of dark power, but the tendrils were too quick. He was captured. The grunt turned into a roar as he yelled protests to this treatment. With a quick bit of thinking, he came to the conclusion that this might be some sort of divine punishment. This fueled the growing flame of rage,'Yeah I get it Aen, YOU ARE PISSED AT ME. Well guess what? I AM PISSED AT YOU. I had to fight back, I had to... Hypocrite.' He was only answered by silence.

'Stupid gods.', he said to the silence. But the darkest suddenly ceased to be and there was that hooded figure again. In a brief moment of calm, the newly made demigod inspected himself. His arms were stained but he could still see the scar on his chest and the one that covered his Bondmark. However, the one on the palm on the was disappearing and the rune was changed as well. It was now a strange series of characters. It read something like, "...one with ... skillful hand." He frowned, he couldn't make out the other character. And just who or what had the power to change who he was!? How dare they do that! The hand tightened into a fist. He lunged at the hooded figure. There was not doubt about it now. It was not Aen, it was the Deceiver! It retaliated by knocking him back and sending some sort of message. At least it explained the situation. 'Serve?' No bloody way!

He was out of there in a shot. With power and a new name - Lleu. He could have sworn it was a little joke of the Deceiver. On his way out, he threw another stone at the Sharluk. This time it was fatal.

Spoiler: Action(s)/OOC

Teleport to Olegard. - DC - Effortless

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

This was a reckless one. Well, that was expected. The prayers of the Verr not did go unheard. They wanted some upheaval, well, here's a champion of that. Seeing as nothing interesting was occurring, it teleported back to Umbraculum. But along the way, it noticed a new planet along the others. M'endar had felt the strange energies involved in its creation, none other that the god of madness himself. If one thing could be said about him, at least he had made the meeting a little bit more interesting. A little mental nudge should do the trick...

Spoiler: Action(s)/OCC

Mentally nudge Daare's mind. - DC - Effortless

 

[JoJo]

Roe and Petal

Roe flew back up from the mortal realms to the Hallowed Court, satisfied that his plan had finally been set in motion. Outside his house Petal was sitting cross-legged on the grass, stroking a great shaggy white dog and holding out a chunk of meat.

"You're still fussing over that dog?" Roe asked.

"He's nice, his name is Woof," Petal replied, "I can't give him back to his old owner, not after she tried to turn him into food. We can keep him can't we?"

"I guess," Roe sighed, "what can he do?"

"He can catch sticks, watch," Petal conjured a stick out of thin air and then using her mind powers hurled it far into the Mourning Garden. Without a moment's hesitation the dog bounded after it, disappearing among the trees. Roe nodded approvingly.

"He does seem fun," the young god admitted with a smile, "he can stay here for now,"

Golden Orchid

It took several minutes before the four revolutionaries were calm enough to speak again.

"It's a miracle..." Bear breathed, "How did this happen Orchid?"

"It was the work of the Lord, Uncle," the cat replied quietly, "He came before me in my cell and... well,"

"Changed you into a cat?"

"Yes,"

"Huh. Did he say why?"

"Not exactly... he said he didn't like the nobles and that the people needed to learn how to rule themselves."

"This... this is great!" Laren interrupted, "Our movement has divine blessing, as we knew all along of course!"

"What was he like?" Shrew interjected.

"Young, happy, pale... not that unlike how the Book describes him really. More importantly though, look at this," Orchid picked up a pen between her teeth and began to draw on a nearby piece of parchment. The rebels gathered around in interest.

"Wait, I recognise that," Ayakin exclaimed, finally breaking her silence, "You got the plans?!"

"Indeed," Orchid replied, allowing herself a quick feline grin, "There's someone we need to speak to first though... his name is Heron."

 

[Dogmatic99]

Spoiler: Brothers and politics

Melanthios sent a message to Zareth, hoping he would come soon. "Greetings brother. It has been to long since we have spoken man to man, I wish to correct this error. It would be very much appreciated, if you joined me soon." Having send his message to his brother, he then looked back up back up. The sea sure was vast, and the new krakens made it look even more mysterious.

"Excuse me gentlemen." Zareth said, taking his leave and strolling off across the sea. He ket the wind whip his cloak and hair around him and relished the icy blast blowing the cobwebs out. The waves didn't even slow him down as he sauntered over the water as if it were path in the park. Eventually he came across Melanthios, his robes billowing dramatically in the wind.

"I was thinking exactly the same thing." Zareth called over the surf. Ground apeared beneath his feet as a Kraken rose up, baring its back to the sky. "Alright calm down." He chided the beast.

Melanthios squinted his eyes, he saw his friend walking over to him. His cloak flying behind him, it looked very dramatic. He smiled, he then made his own kraken appear. "I am happy to see you brother. It has been too long, since we had some time to talk." The kraken seemed a bit stressed, he placed his hand on it and softly petted the creature.

"Well work has been tough on both of us recently I'm sure." Zareth smirked. "That and ripping people's organs out. Everyday's an adventure."

Melanthios smiled. "I have you know, he asked me to fight. I can't help it if I am the stronger one." He smirked. "So you wanted Amour right?" Melanthios asked Zareth.

"Well acorrding to sub paragraph 6 section C of the peace treaty of blah blah blah- bleh blah." Even remembering the stack of papers the devil gave him was tedious. "You. Owe me one present. I have to say I've still seen stranger diplomatic meetings... it's not far off but that's mortals for you."

Melanthios nodded, he then chuckled to himself. "Well I don't mind giving you a present Zareth. And besides Valerie is addicted to the violin. And if she is even a bit around you, like she is around me. You won't last two days without 'lending' it to her." He said thinking about his niece.

He teleported Amour to him, and then jumped over to Zareth. He then handed him Amour. "Anyway... I have to ask. Have you found someone new yet? A female I mean? I mean you don't really make the best choices on the things." Melanthios tried to look serious, but it was quite obvious that he was teasing Zareth.

"I can beleieve that." He chuckled.
Zareth tucked the violin under his chin and held the bow at the ready, giving it a few test strokes. Still he had a lot to learn when it came to music. Perhaps I should alter the form again. Or it could make a good present for Val. "Thank you brother."

But it was as if Melanthios was reading his mind when he mentioned... female company...Does he know? Should I tell him?

"With a population like Evermoor's? Not to mention our chilly blue forends back there." The Kraken rumbled under his feet. "And you." Zareth cooed to it. "No I'm married to my work." He smiled brightly. "And I'm looking to gain a foothold on Evalon, just a few churches and cathedrals, maybe the Rowan will get me a high priest. No, no rest for the wicked."

No. We'll tell him together, it's the right thing to do. Besides... who knows how much longer it will last?

Melanthios nodded. "That sounds like a good plan brother." He then teasingly hit Zareth on the back. "I was just worried you were sleeping around with a new Ekiruru. Anyway how have you been? I mean I understand you have been busy, but has anything interesting happened lately?" Melanthios took a seat on the kraken, it was strangely comfortable.

Zareth leant back against one of the arched ridges along the creature's back. He gave a sigh as he looked out over the throffing white waters.

"What more to say? No enemies to conquer, other people are making my great monuments as we speak, though I have had a large project in the works for a while. The greatest minds in Evermoor haven't been able to crack it, even Valerie was stumped. I was about to call in the big scientific guns... and then you went and shattered him." Zareth raised his voice in mock rage. "Couldn't have just bobbed Nivix on the nose with a rolled up scroll or something could you?"

"But he just didn't give up! The more I hit him, the more he wanted to fight...And I couldn't let him take my magic?Though I have to admit, it was the best and hardest fight I have ever had." He said looking at Zareth. "And besides, I am quite good in science related things myself. I wouldn't mind helping you, I mean it is my fault that Nivix can't help."

"No, no, no think nothing of it. The ground work still needs to be laid for it. I'll bare it in mind though." Zareth waved his hand as if he could wave away the words.

He closed his eyes and breathed in deep. This wasn't the static blur of the necromancers, these were prayers. Evermoor would be getting busier before the sun went down. "Things are picking up in the mortal world..."

Melanthios nodded. "It is indeed. Even The Empire is undergoing heavy changes..." He looked up, and seemed to get nervous. "Zareth I have a secret... Can I trust you to keep it to yourself? Please?" He seemed a bit desperate.

That was something new. He couldn't remember ever seeing Melanthios in such a state, even when he was wounded. "I'll take it to my grave." Zareth said solemly.

He nodded, seeming to calm down a bit. "Zareth.. I am hearing voices.. and not just voices.. All kinds of people that I know.. My father, my brother... They keep talking to me...." He glanced around looking a bit panicked.

Anyone else might have backed away, they might have called him mad. But Zareth was in no position to judge. The image of Melanthios burning himself alive and scratching his own eyes out came to mind. Was this what caused it? The black hand reaching from his chest, crushing his heart like dirt. Hanged from the tallest spire of the palace. So many ways for him to die, what side was the dice going to land on?

"I doubt any of our minds are truly our own." He said. "I think it comes with what we are. I spoke to Valrie while you were away... she told me of the times before... of the life you once lived. I have to say I'm envious." He stepped closer, placing (what he hoped was) a comforting hand on his 'brother's' shoulder.

"We may have gotten here in very different ways, but the end results aren't far off. So if your voices start to give you trouble then send them my way, my voices are a bunch of twisted bastards."

Melanthios laughed. "I can always count on you to make me smile Zareth... But right now they are calm.. I just hope it stays this way.. And the live before this one was... different. It was a good live, though an lonely one. I think that Val helped me survive, just as much as I helped her survive." He smiled looking at the horizon. He then sighed and looked back at Zareth. "Thank you for listening. And I apologize for my behavior. I haven't been the best friend lately.."

"Who among us has?" The death god shrugged. "Now that's enough getting emotional!" He guffawed, slapping Melanthios on the back in an overly many fashion. "No doubt two terrible creatures like us have better things to do!" He hopped to the edge of the kraken. "I think it's time I check on the new residents."

He turned back and smiled at Melanthios. "Remember, we're none of us alone." And with that, he was gone. vanished beneath the waves.

Spoiler: But change doesn't come easy.

Aen felt a pull, and it was close. It wasn't unusual for a Stryfe to offer him some kind of recognition, but this was different. More... like himself. He grinned. Well now, perhaps Vantric was right. Things do seem to be getting interesting. He raced across the snow, taking on the form of a young adult Stryfe. The spirit inside his gauntlet seemed to growing, as it changed form to fit his new avatar all on it's own. Interesting indeed.

Before long, he found himself at the outskirts of a fight between two Stryfe. He might not know much about Stryfe, but it seemed clear that group was made up of different holds. Aen pushed his way to the front. It was clear which one had drawn his eye, and he studied him carefully. Yes... this could be worth aiding. Just as he prepared to give the warrior a bit of an edge, a Stryfe broken into the circle, his axe raised. Without hesitation, Aen stepped in. With one motion, he shattered the axe's blade with his gauntlet, and in the next he laid the renegade out flat. It seemed his help might be a bit more direct this time.

Grimnir was sent reeling from a hit to his face, sending him skidding across the slippery ground.

"You need to be put in your place, runt." The stryfe who's name he never learned pressed on, unleashing a flurry of attacks. It took all Grim had to hold his own and keep from getting his gut split open by an axe blade. Still the blunt attacks got through, forcing him back into the edge of the circle and knocking him into the arms of his crew.

"Put your blade down Grimnir!" His commander roared over the din of the assembled stryfe. "Yield and take your cut, we don't have time for this!"

Grim spat the blood from his mouth and righted himself. "I.. wont... let him.. hurt them!" He wheezed through ragged breaths.

"Their prizes for the blades that take them, Grim. This is how things are done. You know that."

"Then it's time things change!" Grimnir roared, charging back into the fight and swinging his axe straight at his opponent's neck.


Aen glanced back at the young Stryfe. He was impressed. Willing to fight what he believed in, defending the weak and innocent... yeah, this was certainly someone to look after. He growled his challenge at anyone thinking about trying to step in again, then turned to watch the fight.

"Son of a!" The other stryfe took his hand away from his side, soaked in blood. He charged back in screaming his rage. The two warriors seemed to exist in their own world for a time. Every move countered, every stance perfectly held. There was no brutal grunting or childish shouts. Each one was absorbed in the heat of battle, both of them fighting with their all and showing what their kind were truly capable of. The sound of their blades crashing against each other almost sounded musical.

The circle around them broke up as one of the seige leaders burst in. What the hell is this?" One of the nearby warriors gave him an explanation. "You do this while the enemy slaughters your fellows?! Back to your posts!" He barked and the spectators quickly remembered themselves and set back to their tasks. He grabbed a spear from off the ground, ready to impose some discipline. He leveled the weapon and threw it at the fighting pair.

Aen reached out and caught the spear in his uncovered hand, shaking his head at the leader.

"Who the hell are you?" The stryfe stared in disbelief.

In front of him the fight carried on, sparks flying as the two blades chipped away at each other. The two went on and on, neither one giving ground. Until Grimnir fought his way into an opening. With a thunderous roar he swung his weapon, cleaving his enemy's jaw from his head, sending it flying.

The two seemed to stare at each other, their eyes blank and dull as if neither of them quite realised what had happened. A fountain of red quietly poured down the nameless stryfe's chest and he fell to the ground like morning snow.

Grimnir dragged the prisoners to their feet and shoved them on their way. "Go! get out of here! Get somewhere safe and hide!" They looked at him in disbelief but surely enough they did as they were ordered. Grim was left alone, to turn to face the glare of a warrior higher ranking than he was and stranger.

What have you gotten yourself into, Grim?

Aen considered what he had gotten himself into. This wasn't like him, to interfere so directly. And yet... he had to. And now he had to come up with a name. He thought back to what these people called him... it would have to do. "You may call me Yorv."

"I'll call you whatever I damn well please!" Said the commander indignantly. He pointed his sword at the two. "Get back in there!" He ordered them.

"Yes sir!" Grim took the chance and ran back towards the thick of the fighting. Or at least he would have if the commander hadn't grabbed him by the arm first.

"You'll answer for this." The larger stryfe growled in his ear. "I know your name Grimnir Iron-Frost" He almost spat the name. Grim gulped back the shiver that ran down his spine and ran to rejoin his crew.

Aen followed after Grimnir. War might not be his strength, but he knew he could damn well keep this soldier alive.

Grim found his crew in no time. Their forces had resorted to tearing doors from houses and using them as shields to storm up the steps to the long hall. The largest in their nember se about chopping the doors and down and soon they were in. Grimnir and his crew were among the first wave in through the door.

The defenders faught with the bloody abandon of cornered animals. The fighting was cramped, brutal and bloody. Stryfe were climbing over the dead and dying to get to each other and Grimnir was soaked in red before the end. But it did end and he was left standing, bathed in blood, breathing deep and clutching his stange white charm as if his life depended on it. During the fight someone had knocked it off him and he'd pummeled his way through the ranks to get it back.

"You mad bastard!" His crew laughed, still drunk on the high of battle. The day was their and their Kald could add another seat to his hall.

Aen shook his head at all of the corpses. None had been made by him, of course, but some of their deaths may have been at his fault. He'd simply made sure the one they called Grimnir didn't die, which was much easier than he'd thought. The warrior was skilled in battle. Very skilled. Still, he had something in him he had not seen in the Stryfe before. He wanted to see this one share it with the others, and even the greatest warrior could fall to bad luck.

The victors cheered and helped themselves to the spoils from the Kald's pantry, while the ones that got their last were left to clear up the bodies. Grimnir found the chance to clean himself up and enjoy his victory. The festivities were short lived though when the sword bearers - the three commanders of the siege effort - came through the door.

"There he is" One of them said, pointing at Grim. It was the commander from before. The hall went quiet.

"Grimnir Iron-Frost! You are accused of breaking rank and risking the battle lines of your hold. You have spilled the blood of one of your holdsman and disobeyed the orders of a superior. What do you have to say?"

Grim stood forward and held himself tall, looking the three in the eye. "There's plenty here that saw what happened sir. I wont deny it, he was out of line and I did whaI though proper."

"Your actions almost cost us this battle!" One of the sword bearers spoke up but he was quickly silenced by the one in the centre.

"You spread discord in your ranks, your actions cost us a lot of men." They said calmly. "You know the price for such actions."

"I do, sir." Grminir nodded solemnly.

"I will speak in his defense!" "And me!" His crew were speaking up. They told the hall how hard he had fought, how he had helped take the walls and clear the way. Even a few strangers spoke up, saying how they had seen him help take the long hall. The sword bearers listened in tense silence.

"Very well." One of them said. The three of them talked among themselves for a moment before reaching a decision. hey decided to be lenient. "You will be spared the death penalty but it cannot be said that we allowed someone to rise a hand against our hold and get away with it." That was when they grabbed him.

Grimnir thrashed and struggled but the piled on and held him in place, laying his arm out on the table. He struggled and yelled, begging them to stop, threatening them to let him go and clutching the charm in his hand all the tighter. Deep down he knew he couldn't stop it, part of him was ashamed with the way he acted but who wouldn't struggle in that position? The axe came down, severing his arm half way up his forearm. Grimnir screamed his lungs out, only getting louder as the hot iron was pressed against his open wound, sealing it shut. The smell of his own burning flesh filled his nose and he vomited over the table, not long afterwards he passed out from the pain.

The ones who cut him picked picked his arm up, its hand still clenched shut and threw it onto one of the fires. The pale blue flesh began to blacken and crack, the hand slowly opening. The white charm in its palm was exposed to the flame and the first flower of the Stryfe lands burned and shriveled.

When Grimnir woke up he was alone i the burnt out long hall. He was light headed and his eyes were burning. He stumbled to his feet and into the empty streets. There a few survivors trying to scrape up what they could but they were all broken. For the first time in his life Grim felt cold, well and truly, down to his bones, cold. He found a blooded cloak on the ground and moved to pick it up, then he saw his right arm was gone. It still tried to clutch at the cloak though. His ghost hand tried for a minute to pick something up before Grim just used his left arm. He wrapped himself up and stared at the warped looking stump, was he crying? At the base of the stump was a rune carved into his flesh... the mark of the hated. he was banished now, where could he go?

"Caaaaw!"

He looked up to see a great black bird perched on a smoking ruin. It was staring right at him. Grimnir didn't understand at the time but deep down in the core of his being, part of him knew it was calling him. The bird took off and headed north. He gathered up some food and furs - after making a makeshift backpack - and set off to follow it. The bird was leading him towards the never ending storm in the Mountains of Chains. A sacred place to his kind and one that no one dared go to, everyone knew it was the resting place of Ormangand. To hell with it, he thought, what did he have left to lose?

Thus began what historians and storytellers would come to call "The Trials of Grimnir"

 

[Arrogancy]

Spoiler: ...It was a lightning bolt on a clear day...

The Impath Embassy in Loth Ringard was abuzz with activity. The last few weeks, furious preparations and diplomatic negotiations had been underway between Ambassador Varen and the dwarven King Necarten. The normally introverted and secretive Impath had, apparently, begun something serious with the Dwarves, something big. All throughout the city, and even somewhat beyond, speculation was rampant. Some brushed it off as unimportant political business, unlikely to affect anything beyond the government. Others suspected that the Impath offering the dwarven monarchy support in their campaign agasint the revolutionaries. Some claimed wilder theories; that the lainir were being destroyed by dragons and sought asylum in Eva Lothi, that the lainir were cursed and that the dead walked in their lands. Still, some few whispered something more sinister, that the Impath threatened war, but they were dismissed by most and ignored. It was widely known that the lainir were famously introverted and had no stomach for fighting. None were right, and everyone was taken off-guard when the Impath embassy announced an intention to strengthen bonds of peace and alliance with the dwarves.

The lainir and the dwarves were hardly friends. They had never gotten along in any significant manner. The most that could be said of their relationship was that they generally tolerated each other and that neither much wanted war. Various disputes had broken out between the nations over their long history as trading partners, perpetual rivals, and occasional allies; but never had events ever made it to the scale of full blown war. To say that a proposal of permanent alliance surprised the dwarven people was akin to saying that a flood was a tad wet. Still, the Impath had extended the olive branch, and were hosting celebrations for the dwarven elite at the embassy. An era of prosperity seemed close at hand...

***

"And we would like to once more extend our thanks, and heartfelt gratitude to our gracious hosts, the dwarves, and to their great leader: King Necarten." There was a long applause at that line and Ambassador Varen waited for it to die down. The Impath Embassy was brighter than any could remember it being before. Electrical lights illuminated the grand embassy, electrical chandeliers, even, had been bought to make an even greater impression on their hosts. The middle-aged ambassador looked out across a wide sea of faces, both dwarven and lainir. It was more people than the embassy had seen, possibly ever in its history. Slowly, the applause died down and the ambassador brushed his deep brown hair aside, noting the few grey strands within it before continuing.

"It is all too common to assume that the lainir and dwarves are enemies, and those who assert this position often point to our ardently differing ideals and our supposedly clashing history. I am here to set the record straight: the lainir and dwarves have never been enemies and, by the grace of the gods, hopefully will never be enemies. We might have our differences, but it is because of them, not in spite of them, that our nations grow closer together through discussion and debate. Long have the Impath and Eva Lothi existed as friends, as trading partners, we hope now that they will thrive as allies." Another loud applause, this one louder than any of the previous ones in the hour-long speech. Varen smiled, the evening was almost over.

"Now then, I am pleased to give the stage to a good friend and now ally, King Necarten." The lainir ambassador took a step to the side of the podium and lead the applause as a dwarf in a rich red cloak marched up the stairs, waving to the crowd as he ascended, and flanked closely by guards. It had taken a lot to convince Necarten to come to the celebrations, almost as much as it had taken to convince him that their offer of alliance was genuine. If he had any sense, Varen considered, Necarten suspected that the whole affair was a ruse, and Varen knew the king long enough to say, with authority, that Necarten was sensible, sometimes he was even wise. That was why he needed to be removed.

A step was quickly and discreetly pulled out from behind the podium allowing Necarten to look over it and into the crowd. As he began his speech, Varen flicked his eyes toward the window at the front of the building.

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

Aleis quietly crept across the rooftop. The Faredor's mission was almost complete. The dwarves had guards spread out along the streets covering all approaches to the king. With the recent revolutionary activity, they weren't taking any chances with the king, especially not when an international message was involved. Fortunately, Aleis was adept at sneaking, and had considerable help. She felt her bond-mate skittering on the side of the building, keeping an eye out for her. If anyone took notice of her, she'd know it and be out, fast.

She peered over the side of the building. The Impath Embassy stood right across, a platoon of royal guards watched the entrance, however the roof across the street gave access to one small circular window that gave a good view of the entire hall of the embassy. Aleis slung down her bag and took out her binoculars, confirming that the dwarven king had begun his speech. The lainir Impath and the dwarven kingdom were finally burying the hatchet, it was a touching moment. Too bad the dwarven king was about to be assassinated by the revolutionaries.

Aleis opened the rest of the bag, quickly assembling the dwarven sniper rifle. It was well-made, as all dwarven machines were, durable, and ruthlessly effective; but that was where her appreciation for the device ended. It was also clumsy, inelegant, loud and heavy. The thing barely qualified as a sniper rifle. She shook her head. The dwarves had no appreciation for the art of assassination. They thought that all a sniper needed was a scope. A faredor or lainir knew implicitly that this wasn't true. A true sniper needed subtlety, refinement, quiet. The needed to be able to kill their target without leaving a trace that they were ever there, even when firing a gun. But then, that was why the dwarven rifle was necessary, they needed a trail.

Bringing the scope to her eye, Aleis adjusted her stance, then her hands on the gun. It was difficult, this rifle had been made for someone much shorter than she was, but that didn't matter. She had practiced on dwarven sniper rifles in preparation for this mission. King Necarten filled her sight as the scope rested on him, standing just off to the side, she knew, would be the ambassador, ready to take full advantage of the scene. Pictures would be taken of the Impath ambassador, covered in the blood of his friend King Necarten after his violent assassination at the hands of the revolutionaries. The papers were going to love it.

Aleis took the safety off the rifle, "Long live the king." She muttered, then pulled the trigger.

 

[Pappytech]

Northern Continent of Salustutis: Askeladd's Hold

There were several reasons Askeladd, even when he was a few years past his prime, had managed to remain Kald for so long, even if he wasn't the biggest or strongest warrior around. Practicing his own personal, decidedly unorthodox fighting style, recognizing the strengths and, more importantly, the weaknesses of any potential allies or foes, and relying just as much on mental warfare as much as he did on physical were just a few of them.

Allowing unidentified vagabonds, especially ones of an unknown species, into his village without the slightest bit of opposition was not one.

The Stryfe grunted as he eyed the stranger, appraising him carefully. Thorfinn hadn't been lying when he said the guy looked weird; a good foot shorter than the average Stryfe, hair only on his head (though at least it was white), clothed only in a pair of burnt and ragged leggings, and missing both of his arms. His eyes were odd as well, little more than twin pools of white stuck in a constantly scowling face. He looked like trouble, pure and simple.

And that was something Askeladd couldn't afford to tolerate.

"Oi, Thorfinn."

The younger Stryfe, unable to keep the anxiety from his face, stepped to the front of the crowd of curious onlookers. "Yeah?"

Askeladd pointed a finger towards the stranger, now standing motionless in the center of the hold. "You said you hit him with a spear?"

"Y-yeah," came the uneasy reply, "right where his heart should've been! But he tore it out with just his mouth, and then bit it in half, and then the wound just healed up! It was like magic or something; never seen anything like it!"

The Kald took a moment to consider his course of action. The sentry was barely more than a Stryfeling; didn't exactly make for the most reliable source of information. Thorfinn claimed that the vagabond had some magical healing ability, but it was more likely it was just the lad's overactive imagination. Still... It never hurt to be cautious, now did it?

"Ah, come off it, ya dolt," Askeladd replied, smacking the sentry upside the head. "Don't go around telling stories and making stuff up; you're too old for that now."

"B-b-but Aske-"

"Now listen here," the Kald interjected, grabbing Thorfinn by the scruff of his neck. With a single, fluid motion, he threw the youth forward, sending him stumbling out into the snow. "Go and tell the bastard that he's got ten seconds to get out of my hold, else I'll rip his head off. And if he gives you any lip, take off one of his legs, why don't you?"

"B-but I-"

"I said go!" he roared, his hand going to the sword slung about his waist. "Now get going, or I'll take off one of your legs instead!"

Askeladd could almost here the lad whimper as he rose to his feet and started half-jogging towards the stranger. Snorting, the Stryfe released his sword and rested his arms across his chest, keeping a careful eye on Thorfinn's back. He wanted to see how the youth handled the newcomer, and, more importantly, how the newcomer would react to such a direct threat. If he was smart, he'd just run away, and prove to be an easy target for hunting down. If he was stupid, odds were that Thorfinn'd be able to take him down without too much trouble. If he actually did have some kind of magical power... Well, he'd just have to wait and see.

The Kald barely paid attention to the muttering of the crowd behind him; all of his attention were focused on the youngster and the stranger before him. Thorfinn had done as instructed, and had drawn his dirk in an attempt to intimidate the wanderer. However, if the stranger's lack of a reaction was anything to go by, he was utterly failing at it.

"You b-bastard!" Tch, even at this distance he could still hear Thorfinn's voice cracking. "Ju-just die already!"

The lad swung his blade at the stranger's legs, letting out what was probably supposed to be a battle cry, and Askeladd raised his eyebrows. Time to see exactly what the bizarre arrival was capable off.

SKKKKT

...Apparently he wasn't quite capable of dodging. Thorfinn's blade had managed to inflict a pretty nasty gash, starting from just above the stranger's knee and running down the length of his leg. Curiously golden blood began to pour from the wound and splattered onto the snow, but the injury itself showed no sign of miraculously healing. Still, it had managed to do what the lad's earlier taunts couldn't; the newcomer's otherwise stoic visage actually twitched a bit, and he tilted his head to... get a better look at the wound, maybe? Wasn't he blind though?

Eh, whatever, the Kald mused. He'd seen stranger sights in his time.

"Oi, brat," he called out as he began to walk forward, one of his hands idly resting on his sword, "you call that a cut? Jeez, who taught you how to fight?"

Ignoring Thorfinn's stuttered protests, Askeladd continued his advance, stopping only when he was directly in front of the stranger. "Whoever they were, they must've been better aquainted with kitchen knives then... with... swords..."

The Stryfe trailed off as he finally noticed what Thorfinn was fearfully pointing at. Though he managed to repress most of his response, the Kald was unable to prevent one of his eyebrows shooting up in surprise. "Well. You don't see that everyday."

The gash that had been pouring blood not seconds ago was starting to close up, with nary a hint of bandages or medicine. The wound healed itself before Askeladd's very eyes and, if the stranger's utter lack of surprise was anything to go by, this wasn't that odd of an occurance.

So... How do I react?

For once, the Kald wasn't sure how to handle the situation. Anything involving battle or political machinations he could deal with easily, but bizarre wanderers who could heal grevious injuries without the slightest hint of effort? That fell well outside his expertise. Sure, he'd heard stories about death-callers and their supposed works, but it was one thing just hearing about it and quite another to see it in his own village. And then there was the matter of the stranger's appearence...

Suddenly, old tales and legends flocked to the Stryfe's mind. The stories of Yorvengand, Kaviken, Garenbound, Ormangand, and all the other Spirits of old. He'd never put much stock in the myths, but considering the situation...

It was time to probe for some more information.

"Are... Are you one of them? A Spirit?"

Nearly a minute passed by in silence, with neither Askeladd, Thorfinn, or the stranger moving a muscle. The quiet hung in the air like a blanket, stifling the Kald and young sentry, but neither of them could find the will to break the silence. Finally, just when it seemed like they would be standing there until morning-

"Spirit?" the newcomer replied, his voice tainted by the barest hint of a growl. "No. I'm... I'm nothing."

Askeladd hid his half smile. It wasn't much, but at least he was finally getting a response. "Then, if I might be so bold, why did you come to my hold?"

Though there was still a pause before the wanderer replied, it was far shorter than the last. "To... to forget."

"Forget what?"

"That," the stranger almost snarled, "is none of your concern."

"My apologies." The Kald bent forward in a bow, looking for a way to change the subject. "If you don't mind my asking, what are you called?"

"...Nyx." came the grunted reply. "My name is Nyx."

 

[JoJo]

Eastern Almia - the Fellowship meets the Dues Filli


Heron flew through space once again. He had been invited to visit the humans again, he had to admit he was looking forward to it. But Kallen was sitting right behind him, making sure he would stay on objective. The space whales flew toward the planet, and they would arrive soon. He activated his magic, and the space whales turned invisible. The decent went quite well, and three space whales landed within a thick forest. Their mouths opened, and within seconds 50 Dues Filli stood ready to fight.

The space whales could carry more soldiers now, they had started to selective breed them a while ago now. Heron jumped out too, followed by Kallen. He had to admit it was rather strange seeing his companion in a military suit, but then again armors had changed quite a back from 1000 years ago. "Alright everyone you know the mission. You all stay here, and be ready to retreat when called upon!"

Heron then turned around, and walked away followed by Kallen. They both changed their appearance, they took on human forms and walked towards the village. "Now let's find what whoever invited us wants. I wonder what they really want.... Maeglin could have been a bit clearer on that." As usual Kallen kept quiet. Both the Dues Filli wandered into the village. After a bit of searching, they found the house they were looking for. Heron knocked on the door and then waited.

The door opened a crack and a pair of eyes peered out from the darkness from about the waist-level of the Dues Filli. Some murmuring came from behind the door and then it swung open, a Kinderven standing in front of the pair with a serious expression on his face.

"Come in misters, if you aren't spies," Shrew said and beckoned for the Dues Filli to follow him.

Heron looked surprised, though he had learned not to offend his hosts. He followed the young kindereven... young? Well maybe? It was hard to tell. Kallen followed, staying as silent as ever.

Shrew lead the two Dues Filli into the darkened house, the corridor barely lit by flickering candles. They reached a bare room with a number of figures round a table: one elder Rowan man in rough clothing, a younger Changeling male in finer dress and a relaxed Ekiruru woman who stared coldly at the visitors as they entered. A golden cat sat lazily on the table.

"Greetings, you can call me Bear," the elder Rowan said and spread his arms warmly. "Here is my niece Orchid and my comrades Laren, Ayakin and Shrew."

Heron made a small bow, and then said with a smile. "It is nice meeting you bear, and your companions. My name is Heron, and this is my bodyguard Kallen. So what did you want to discuss with us today?" He asked looking around the room. Kallen remained unmoving, he didn't even blink.

Orchid stretched herself and stood up, padding up to the edge of the table to be closer to the pair. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you Heron, I have heard much about you. Our movement is low on supplies, we need arms and equipment desperately,"

Heron smiled, he blushed slightly. "I didn't know I was that famous.." Kallen gave him a stern look, which seemed to annoy Heron. "Well I am sure we can figure something out. The empire has enough of any resource really. Magic, food, materials, tools, armors and so on." He seemed quite proud. "And this movement of yours. Do you mean the Fellowship?" He had been reading up on their recent history, it paid to be prepared.

"Yes, the Fellowship," the cat replied, "We have chapters across the Empire who are ready and willing but lack steel and lead to back them up, the authorities keep a tight lid on such things. As you can clearly see with yours truly, we also have the backing of the Lord Roe himself,"

Heron nodded. "I see." He took a seat on a chair and seemed to think. "Also you said steel. Don't you people use guns?" He looked around the room, he wondered just how they were planning to win.

"Guns are expensive and many of the Empire loyalists do not use them," Orchid said, licking a paw, "We'll accept as many as we can get but we accept we may have to rely on more traditional weaponry, many of our supporters are ordinary folk who have never even taken up a weapon before,"

Heron smiled. "Then guns are an even better choice. Its a lot easier teaching some to shoot a gun, then to fight with a sword. And we could give you quite a lot of guns, we have tons of older models. Though those are still quite good, and only a few years old. We could even give you some of these suits." He said standing up, showing off his own suit.

Kallen suddenly grabbed a dagger, and stabbed Heron. But surprisingly he was deflected, and had to do his best to keep his balance. "See? These armors are protected by a thin layer of magic, which can deflect a few blows." He loved talking about how far they had come in recent years, mostly since he was one of the lead designers for armors.

The five revolutionaries stared in surprise at Kallen's demonstration, such magic was very rare in the Empire, even the Changelings rarely used it so blatantly. "That could be really helpful," Shrew added aloud, "I have some ideas for formations we could use if lots of us had guns,"

"I agree," Orchid said, "this could give us a real edge. What is your price?"

Heron looked very exited, he loved it when people liked his creations. He then seemed to calm down a little, he had to think about the price. "Well that depends. How many guns, and armors are you looking for? A thousand? A Million? More?" He looked around the room.

"Ten thousand," Beat interjected, "We need to strike fast and take the important population centers when the time comes and then the people will back us,"

"Wait Uncle," Orchid said, "there's also something else we need," she turned back to the pair, "Do you have magical explosives?" she asked.

Heron seemed to think. Ten thousand was easily do able... but the explosives. He glanced at Kallen, who gave him a stern look. "how strong do you want them to be? Strong enough to destroy a building?" He looked up at Bear and Orchid.

"Enough for a very large building, but also as light as possible so they can transported quickly," Orchid replied, "Is that possible? We have crude explosives but they are unreliable,"

He nodded, such a small amount would be no problem. "Yes I think that shouldn't be a problem. Though it takes a certain method to set up, but I will show you how to use it. But yeah those things are all tradable, anything else you would like?" He glanced at the other people in the room.

The Changeling shook his head and the Ekiruru shrugged, "As long as my people are freed, I don't care what is used," the green woman said. "Yes, that is everything," Orchid added.

Heron looked at the Erikruru, he still didn't like their kind. But then again they weren't all bad. "Well alright then. I guess it is time for me to reveal what we want. Its quite simple really." He said taking out a contract, and placing it on the table. "We want two things. One we want an alliance between your races, and ours. "He quickly wrote down what they wanted on the contract.

He then looked back up at Bear. "We want this deal to be made in front of the gods, so that whoever breaks it will anger them. Two we want a small bit of land, to create a university on. So we can study this planet, and well the races too. We want this university to be left alone obviously, and in turn they won't bother you. I hope neither of those things is too much to ask"?" He asked smiling, as he pushed the contract to Bear.

Bear raised an eyebrow as he read over the terms of the contract and fixed his gaze on the pair. "A couple of questions. Firstly, which races exactly? We have three or four races between us, depending on what you count young Shrew as. Secondly, where would this university be?"

Heron didn't mind a few questions. "Well we would want an alliance with this country, so really anyone who calls himself an citizen of this country. And the university can be build wherever you want it to be. Far away from cities or close by, we don't mind much."

"We are but a few people," Bear replied, "I will consent to the idea of an alliance but ultimately the decision lies with the whole people of our future state, not me. I can't promise that they will accept but your help won't be forgotten. Secondly, I can't sign anyway of our nation's sovereign territory but I can promise a place for your university, as long as it remains part of our country,"

Heron shrugged. "Both those things are fine with me, I just don't want the university to be in danger. and I can understand your unwillingness to sign anything. I will take your word for it, as you will have to take mine for it until we deliver our weapons. By the way, do you need any help with those weapons? We could send a few people along to teach you how to use them." Heron offered taking back the contract.

"Help would be much appreciated," Orchid said with a flick of her tail, "it's rare for the common people here to use guns,"

Heron caught himself staring at her tail it was a curious thing, he wondered just how much she could do with it. "Sure no problem, we can send quite a few. We only use guns now, ever since the factories started running we have so many. Though a few groups still use spears, a few guilds to be more precise."

"Excellent," Orchid replied, "I'm glad we could reach an agreement, now I think it may be time to part, it's not safe to stay in one place for too long. May the Lord Roe be with you on your return journey,"

Heron nodded. "May Melanthios bring you victory friends." He stood up and looked at Kallen, who seemed less then pleased. Great... this means I will get another lecture. He headed out the door, now to find a way to convince Maeglin to agree to these terms. Kallen followed him closely, as they both headed back to forest and then home.

"Do you really think they can be trusted?" Bear said once the Dues Filli left. "I think so," Orchid replied, "they know what they want, as long as we bring the goods they will respond in kind. We need this support if we are to have a chance of taking Manor and the other major cities,"