A Dark Side Rises

[QueenTeleperien]

At long last the wounds on Teleperien's back had healed. The wizard Alatar found a respectable spell that closed them within a few days. Which was fortuitous. The dwarves from the north had renewed their demands for a lighter tax burden. This demand was written to her the eve when Xenograg appeared in her courtyard with a serious war wound. The demand was repeated a fortnight later when Teleperien did not answer the first missive. This time accompanied by a small score of dwarves. The mayor amongst them. They were politely escorted to the Great Hall where they were rewarded with a good meal for their troubles.

Sitting in her study she reads the second missive, for a strange reason she doesn't feel irritated or pressured. A cold thought appealed to her. If the dwarves are desirous of less taxation, they will not receive the full protection afforded to them by her rangers and elves. A cold smile crossed her face.

Suddenly.. she receives a sense someone was about to visit her courtyard. Tele stands and glides from the study toward the courtyard. At the courtyard doorway when she sees of all people.. Artemus. She smiles, though it is touched with cold. She owed Artemus her life. His dark green robes ruffle in the wind as he walks across the courtyard, staff thudding the cobblestones as he walks. She is aware she is slightly glimmering in the growing dark. He looks her in the eye then bows.

"Mae govannen, mellon Queen Teleperien."

"Mae govannen" Tele's voice is low and musical. "To what do I owe the honor of your visit?"

Artemus pushes back a hood, a slender smile on his thin lips. "I just thought I'd see how you were faring. I realize I should have sent a messenger ahead, but I thought you'd prefer a less formal audience." He shrugs.
"It is of small matter. The castle is quiet this eve." She feels her mouth twist into a strange smile.

He seems surprised, a blonde brow rises at the smile and her words. "I can scarcely believe a castle would be quiet....even an Elvish one."

Tele gives a low laugh. It hadn't been quiet, but the conflicts seemed quieter that eve. "Perhaps it is relative. Can I offer you refreshment?" She stands away from the door to allow him entrance. He nods and regards her as if unsure. He then walks past her.

"Why thank you."

Teleperien walks with him, her steps silent. Within she feels the growing sense of a calculating and cold attitude toward Art. This disturbs her but the feeling is suddenly gone. As they reach the study door the guards spring to attention with hands to their chest. With curioius glances they look at Art, but venture no comment. Tele looks at Art.

"We can speak in my study."

"As you wish, your Majesty."

Once inside the study, the door closed, Tele rings the bell. Almost at once a young chambermaid appears. Her eyes are round and blue, curly blonde hair and a wide mouth quick to smile. Tele turns to Artemus. Her gaze is strangely piercing. "What would you care to drink?"
His emerald green eyes glow slightly as the room holds a low light. He holds the maid with his gaze.

"Water, please."

"My usual tea please Rosie." The girl bobs a curtsey and disappears. Tele gestures to a nearby chair. "Please sit Artemus."

Tele watches as he moves to the chair and sits laying his staff on the floor. Again she asks. "What brings you to Eldicor?" She can't explain it, she feels distrust. There was no real reason for it. But she feels it non-the-less. She sits with equal grace as she continues;

"How may I be of service?"

His glance is curious. "As I mentioned in the courtyard, it has been a while since I last visited. I thought I would see how you have been fairing. And perhaps catch up on the local events here in your realm."

This strikes Tele as unusual. The only person who has consistently asked of her realm is Xenograg. But she keeps this suspicions to herself. Rosie now appears with the tray with the cold water in a handsome acid-etched glass and Teleperien's usual hot tea in an elegant pot with delicate cups. The tray is set between them and Artemus thanks the lass. Rosie, blushing furiously bobs a curtsy and is gone. Tele pours her tea before she continues.
" Dwarves are causing unrest in the north.

She watches as Artemus studies the glass and a lemon slice appears at the bottom of the glass. This amuses Tele. Artemus glances around to be sure they are alone and says "When aren't dwarves causing unrest?"

Tele knew his mind. She looks at Art with a low voice that holds an edge.

"Borin is loyal. These dwarves in the north are not of the same clan."

Artemus replied; "You mistook my meaning Your Highness. I did not wish for him to take offense if he happened to be nearby." Tele noticed he looked to her in response to his words. She merely nodded and continued in explanation.

"These dwarves are clamoring for less taxes yet the same protections."

His eyebrows raised with surprise. "Now that's just not logical." Tele nodded and Artemus continued. " As is a rule I used growing up...you get what you pay for."

Tele felt in her a stir of cold anger. She felt that the smile on her face mirrored her emotion. "I will accommodate them."

Artemus pauses and looks at Tele with curious alarm. "Are you feeling all right your Majesty?"

Tele takes a sip of her tea. "I feel very well, the wounds inflicted by Vanion's torture have finally healed and I feel stronger than ever."
All Artemus did was take a sip of his water and nods as he sets the glass down.

"That is good to hear Tele."

Tele sits back crossing her long legs, " I owe you much as well as the others much for my life."

Though she tried to disguise this, conflict within her made her uneasy and disturbed. Quickly she subdued this emotion.

"You owe me nothing, your Majesty. I did as I had to do, nothing more."
Tele didn't answer at once, takes a sip of her tea then fixes her gaze on Artemus. "Tell me how you are."

"There is not much to tell. I have been keeping myself locked within my tower. There have been rumors circulating that Vanion intends to challenge for my Title when my grace period is up." His face showed resolve. "My key is one he shall not have. Even if it kills me."

Tele felt a flood of anger at the name of Vanion. She feels her jaw setting and her fingers gripping the cup, her knuckles white. Artemus continues. "He has no respect for me...and belittles my skills. That will be his undoing."

Tele listens without comment but is pleased to see the feral grin of a wild creature. "He once told me it is sad and pathetic that a non-mage be Keeper." The grin grows positively wicked. "I merely replied..."Is it sad that a non-mage is Keeper...or that a non-mage beat a mage for the job? "
To this Tele had to laugh. It was low and held an edge to it.

"Well said Artemus."

He merely nods in response then takes another long drink of water.

"Vanion will be dealt with. When he is least expecting it Mayhaps not by me, but it will happen But.. as his hostage.. I learned much."

Tele noticed Artemus studied her. He replies, "I see." She stands. It is time to end this interview. She had work to do. The dwarves were awaiting her in the Great Hall. It pleased her that they waited on her.

"I must attend to the dwarves this eve. However, you are welcome to stay in the castle if you wish."
"Thank you Teleperien. That sounds quite lovely." He pulled his hood back up. Teleperien rings a bell and Rose appears again.

"Please lead our guest to the apartments." Tele orders. The small maid curtsies and leads
Artemus out of the study. She calls after them. "Ask for what you need, it will be supplied."
Artemus seemed to study her face once more. It doesn't bother Teleperien. At this point, nothing bothered her. Artemus left the room. The door closing on it's own as he leaves.

[QueenTeleperien]

It had grown fully dark by the time Teleperien decided to give her decision to the dwarves. She swept into the great hall and the dwarves leapt to their feet as she was announced. Stepping up the stairs to her dais, she turned, faced the dwarves and sat.

“Please, sit.” Tele said with an unusual air of cool regard. She had made up her mind and she was going to deal with these dwarves once and for all. “I have contemplated your request and I have come to my decision. Master Thargon, as mayor you bear full responsibility in regard to how this is received. I will reduce my taxes.”

The dwarves smiled and the mayor, Thargon stood and bowed. “I thank you …..”

“However.” Teleperien cut him off. Tom the Hobbit stood at the bottom of the stairs at his little desk scribbling away as he recorded this. He glanced up at the queen and then at the dwarf, knowing what was next quickly bent over his parchment. The queen continued. “However, Master Thargon, I withdraw my protection of your mines save the protection of your villages. Your grasping toward riches has created rift within the realm. Further, the harassment of my daughter by leveling a steep fee to cross the mountains thus required her to travel around your mines highly insulting.”

A ringing silence to this pronouncement followed. Teleperien looked at the dwarf with growing anger her words staccato. “If you again allow this type of behavior toward *any* of my household, I will remove you from office. I still hold this power, and I will use it.”

Thargon, face glowing red bowed low. The elven queen stood and swept out of the hall, Tom the hobbit staying behind. She chuckled to herself as she went.

[QueenTeleperien]

“Lady, may I speak with you?”

Teleperien looked up at the figure of Gwindor in front of her. She nodded and gestured to a chair close by. The elf shook his head and remained standing. Tele’s eyebrows rose slightly at this but did not remark.

“I have come to understand a stranger came to the castle and stayed in your apartments.”

“What of it?” Tele replied. Her mind made a quick rerun of the night a few nights earlier. Jack Grey… her lips burned at the thought of him.

“If I am to protect you and this castle, I must know who comes and goes.” Said Gwindor. Tele didn’t answer, merely looked at him. Jack's hands as he undressed her.. as they flowed over her smooth skin. “Lady…”

“Gwindor, who I bring to my apartments is my concern.” She answered not harshly for even as she recalled that night, she knew deep down he was right. Jack's lips on her breasts, her hands moving up and down Jack's back, tracing over his backside.

“Majesty, it is my concern. I have been given this task to protect you…” Gwindor began but Tele interrupted him.

“Gwindor. In this case it was not. Please, I have much to do.”

For a full moment he stared at Tele and she did not turn his gaze, though she did not think of Gwindor, but of Jack’s hands on her waist as they slowly moved down her naked body. Gwindor gave her one last look of alarm that was lost on Tele. He left the room.

Jack stroking her till she went mad. Their frantic love making till they were both sated and exhausted. In his arms she fell asleep.

When she awoke the next morning, he was gone. But a single rose lay on the pillow next to her. She smiled, picked it up and smelled it. As intense as the love making was last night, a sharp and deep pang of guilt reminded her she was still married.

To a man who deserted her three years ago. Philippe. She closed her eyes for a moment as she felt tears burning, threatening to spill out. Quickly she shook her head and got up. She was still naked.. going to a window that over looked the harbor and the empty place where the Lady Venture would have been moored. Early morning light from the east cast a rosy hue on the docks, betraying the sense of loss.

“Philippe...” She whispered. “Why have you left me?”

[Artemus Kurgen]

" I don't remember where I was, I realized life was a game. The more seriously I took things, the harder the rules became. I had no idea, what it cost, my life passed before my eyes. I've found out the little I'd accomplish my plans tonight..." - Megadeth


Fruition. By definition it is the attainment or realization of something desired.
After so long in searching, I am within grasping distance of the sweet sweet fruit I desire. So many years of searching, deals made and broken, honor, pride, so many things cast to the winds in search of one goal. All the weeks spent in this city, having to swallow my pride and allow the citizenry to believe me an incompetent fool. Soon....so very soon all of that would come to an end.

An end to putting up with Vanion's rediculous mockery, the fool won't know what hit him. An end to offering comforting words to those who truly don't deserve it. An end to letting Vincent feel safe with his multiple clones and his small plots. He may be smart, but he is not nearly as smart as he allows himself to believe.

There will be an end to pretending to mourn those I made appear dear to me. I was choking back tears of laughter when I wrote that sappy letter after "Cheyenne" left. Though Chey's return has presented some possibilities that I could use to my advantage, only time will tell where that is concerned..
Then there was the letter I recieved from Alais, nearly had me rolling. So gullible. Her soft heart makes her weak. I was pleased when Alia Anor became MORE suspicious of Sylus and Alais. When I offered her help and friendship I was sure that she would connect my actions with something brewing between my brother and that so called "Archmage". Allowing her to believe that I was spying on her for my dim-witted brother is something I take a small amount of pride in.

An end to doing good things without asking for any form of reward. I hate charity work. Watching Anne's brats for her was an exercise in self control. "We need the practice with children" I suprised myself by not vomiting after I said it.

Finally an end to making arguments, then stating a fact that supports my opposition. Playing the fool has it's uses, but I can only stand it for so long. When people believe you an idiot they do not look at you twice, therefore do not consider you any time of threat. Through her word of honor, I too will find a use for Rhaine. Though she serves her god quite devoutly, if presented the right way..she too will help me find what I seek. I just need to wait for the opportune moment.

Soon there will be an end to suppressing my instincts and pretending to play one of the "good guys". It makes my stomach churn whenever I think back to saving Teleperien from the Vanion's Temple. I should have left her to rot...but upon reflection, it has presented some very interesting gifts for me; and I know exactly what to do with them.

I sensed it within her almost immediately, I sensed something dark stirring within Queen Teleperien after her wounds from the temple had healed. I was not entirely suprised by this, but I was intrigued by it. All I had to do was wait...wait and watch for her to give me something of use. And so she has..through her infidelity. Through this act, I will find a hold on the darkness within her, and through her..I will find what I seek.

It is only a matter of time before I find you, Yggdrasil. Only a matter of time before I find you...find you and make all of your knowledge and power my own. For a Druid...the search for the Tree of Life is never ending.

I thought that by becoming a creature of pure shadow, I would finally have you in my hands. How I truly was the fool for believing that. I'm a fool for not realizing just how much all of that dark power would conflict with my base druidic nature. Such things happen to the best of us, as the saying goes.

It began when I had a feeling that by joining with the shadows I would find you. After all, there are shadows almost everywhere, which could include the shadows beneath your mighty boughs. I should have forseen the problem that nearly destroyed me. Magic of shadow and dark energy cannot remain long as part of a being who started out learning magic of the light and positive energies. There would be nothing but conflict. It was only a matter of weeks before even casting the simplest of spells became a challenge. Feeling the shadow and light clash within my very flesh nearly brought me to my knees. These spells would hit me at the most inopportune moments, nearly costing me my life in many incidents.

I am fortunate in the fact that these spells did not hit me during any of my challenges. If they had, my plans would have been ruined. It had taken me so long to gain enough skill on the Isle of Twilight to challenge for the Tower of Earth. After so much work, I was not going to let go of my key easily. To find Yggdrasil, the Tree of Life; I knew that I needed to find a way to gain influence over the earth or at least the animals. After all, it is they who guard the great tree.

Even after I won the Key from Gork, with the new boost in power, you still eluded me. Your power far outstripping my own. How you love your privacy, Yggdrasil; and how I long to find you. You have hidden from the world for far too long, I will be the one to bring you out of hiding. Bring you back into the world of men, restore the world to how it should be. Those that cultivate life will become the kings of the world, and those that live upon the destruction of the natural order of the world...they will become the destitute, the impoverished. Though my soul may end up burning in the eternal fires for what I strive to do, and what I have already accomplished I will not stop now. I am too far along to call it quits. In all I have done, it has been with the best of intentions for the final result. Like the saying goes...the road to hell is paved with good intentions.

How I long to behold you, great Yggdrasil...So much to do.

So much to do.....so little time.:: With a tired sigh, the Keeper of Earth closed his journal and placed it back within the safe. Muttering soft words he restored the protective wards upon it and summoned the guardian demon to watch over the safe:: I think I'll go and see how the Isle looks tonight....



( Cross-posted in Kurgen Keep> So much to do...so little time)

[Artemus Kurgen]

" God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
and the wisdom..to know the difference" - Serenity Prayer

How does one measure the frailty of mortal man's nature? I do not believe there is a way. Men have fought against themselves on an internal level since time immemorial;and for the most part, some have won this fight, but more often than not...man has lost.
Given this truth..it can be said...that when something of unusual fortune is given to man; he should just be thankful for the opportunity. However, not all men learn this lesson. For some, it can save their life.

Unfortunately for Jack Grey, he learned this lesson too late.....all because he couldn't be satisfied with one moment of good fortune. When for some..that is all that they get.
..........................................................................................................

It had been an uneventful evening as I sat in a dark corner of the Black Rose Inn. There was not an overly large crowd within the establishment, I noted, gazing around the room in thoughtful silence. By the door stood the "Crowd Control"; a lumbering hulk of a man whom appeared to have what looked like either troll or ogre in his blood. Easily standing well over eight feet tall, his frame was bulky but none of it seemed to jiggle. That said the "man" was all muscle, however I was far from unimpressed. "The more muscle build a man has, the small his brain and other muscles are" Shaking my head, I just leaned back in my chair and looked around the room for something of more substance. The gods must have been in my favor becuase I didn't need to look for long....

Just as I was readying myself to head home for the remainder of the evening, a small group of fellows walked into the room. The most boisterous of the men, a fellow named Jack had just finished telling some kind of crude joke. This man appeared to be young, around my own age it seemed. The lad was tall for his age, probably having just hit his growth spurt, with skin that looked too pale to be healthy; and hair black as pitch. " Kids today seem to take less and less care of themselves" I muttered as I refilled my glass of wine. With something new to keep my interest in the place, I watched the group move to a far corner of the room, most likely for privacy as well as distance from the door. There seemed to be a cold wind creeping through the bottom of the door. This is one of the evenings I was glad I'd been born a shapeshifter. Two cheers for Preternaturally shark hearing!! Focusing my attention on the group, but keeping my head low; I found myself listening to a most curious tale...and one that I could not help but smile at.

"Yea guys....let me tell you. I met this woman the other night..." Started the one called Jack, not even trying to be quiet about it. "Man was she beautiful...Tall too!! " The lad added with a cocky smile. I was quickly getting bored. Then he said it...

"Yea..she was like a queen or something..." To his fellows, who were just shaking their heads, telling him to shut up all ready. They weren't falling for it and other more...colorful phrases. However...I knew exactly whom he was talking about. Now things were getting interesting....at least for me. Jack's friends however had another notion....get the boy drunk. Smiling to myself I just sat back and watched the drama unfold. The groups plan backfired. The drunker Jack became, it seemed the more he wanted his friends to share in the experience.

I had heard enough to know that if this got out too much, Teleperience reputation would take a blow. Because of this fact....I had my foothold on her. First...I needed to deal with this boy...as well as his friends. This boy would be my key to gaining that foothold....all I needed to do was devise a way to get him to stop talking.....and then stop his friends. It almost saddened me to do what I was going to do. Then I remembered...all I do...I do in the hopes of making a better world. No amount of sentiment or guilt will get in the way of that.

As the night wore on, I watched the group drink themselves into a drunken frenzy. It suprised me that they didn't get alcohol poisoning, but that was a small matter. I just could not believe the luck I was having tonight. This was all too easy..but being one to never question good fortune, I just smiled to myself and finished my glass of wine. Slowly humming a dirge under my breath, I watched the group rise, if on unsteady legs, but rise they did and stumble to the door. Still humming that tune under my breath I waited a moment before following the group out into the street. I could not help but think to myself..."This boy should have counted his blessings and have been thankful for the brief moment of joy he had been given."
Humming softly to myself, I shadowed the group down the street, thankful I was not one of them. They were all about to have a very...very..bad...night......
.........................................................................................................

::Humming the same tune from that night, the Keeper of Earth closed his journal and returned the tome to it's proper place. Smiling soflty, he headed out for the night:: "I wonder if the luck is still with me?"

( Cross-posted in Kurgen Keep> So much to do ..so little time..)

[QueenTeleperien]

After making certain the girls had settled down for the evening, Teleperien decided to visit the arena and perhaps pick up a duel. She had returned to the sport not for gaining rank but to keep her sword play honed.

When she arrived she found several faces she recognized. Settled on a table near the rings she stopped Hubie as he hurried about with mugs of ale and ordered a scotch. She was glad her trip wasn’t wasted, she managed to get someone duel her.. In the middle of the duel Xenograg arrived in the arena. She nodded a greeting and quickly returned her attention to the duel. When she finished she exited the ring and headed to the bar for her scotch as well as tea for Xenograg, they both sat at a table near the wall, away from all the traffic in the arena. It afforded an excellent view to see who arrived or left. Once settled and the usual pleasantries exchanged Xenograg said to Tele; “I just learned of the trouble Amanda and Erwyn got into.”

She surveyed him serenely and simply replied, “Aye.”

“A pattern is apparent.” Xenograg said. This puzzled Tele.

“Indeed?” She asks with genuine curiosity. She sips her scotch and sets the glass down.

“Perhaps I should remove Amanda from Eldicor.”

“I see little need for that.” Tele replied. He had not threatened to remove her other two charges even after they had a bad habit of going to Rhydin without notice.

“Perhaps from the palace, then. I can rent a house. I do not wish to disturb your household.”

Tendrils of anger surrounded her heart and she felt her face harden.

“What are you implying?”

“That this started with Amanda’s arrival.” He replied.

For a moment Tele sat stunned at this. She gathered her wits and replied, her voice hard and cold. “Do you believe Erwyn has been a bad influence?”

“I am thinking the reverse, Tele. And I fully concur with Borin's punishments. It may even be too lenient.”

Tele studied him for a moment before she answered him. “Never have I objected offering my castle as a hostel for you and your family. When I was a girl, I was just as mischievous. Amanda has been little trouble. Also Mystic has been calmed and is doing well.” Her tone of voice was nonchalant. Xenograg however was not satisfied for a reason Tele didn’t understand.

“I do not want to abuse your hospitality. Since you are not concerned, I will let the matter drop. I have the additional one of Amanda and Mystic which I will deal with privately.”

Nettled, Tele replied; “Under my roof, I would know what is being done.” Her mouth set in a line.

“Amanda needs to understand she has a sister now.” He went on in spite of the anger on her face. “I am thinking of restricting Amanda's time with Erwyn, both as a punishment and simply in favor of Mystic.”

Now, he had touched a nerve. Never had he made this kind of statement to her before. She answers him in clipped voice, thumping her glass on the table.

“Mystic has been a difficult charge. She leaves when she wishes and leaves our household in uproar.”

“I did not see Mystic as more troublesome. I will see about minimizing that.”
“Mystic is a dear child, but that. A child. She has taken advantage of the hospitality. I have taken her back because of our friendship.” She almost snaps. The tension in Xenograg’s jaw was not wasted on Teleperien, but to her own surprise she did not care.

“I wish you had spoken of this soon, Tele. I had no idea of your displeasure.” He replies.

“It is not displeasure Xenograg, but she must learn as well that she cannot just leave. When I am given charge to protect her and Alias Anor, I cannot protect them if they disregard our limitations.” She presses onward, not caring if he was offended or not. “Now you are concerned? Now I have Amanda, you speak of lack of care?”

“Tele, I have never criticized your hospitality.” Xeno seemed confused, but it didn’t faze her he goes on; “Yes, I see. Forgive me for not seeing it immediately.”

Tele was now desirous of just leaving and had a mind to pack Amanda and Mystic back to the care of their father. She stood, the chair scrapping on the floor, Xeno stood with her. She grabbed her cloak and slung it on.

“Allow me to accompany you, my friend.”

Tele didn’t answer at once, but then nodded stiffly. Xenograg offered his arm, reluctantly she takes it. He attempts a smile, but Tele does not return it. She was too angry. He continues in a soft voice, “Let us clear the air away from this, I will reassure you.”

She studies him with steely grey eyes and nods and replies; “Very well.”

[QueenTeleperien]

Silence lay between Xenograg and Teleperien during their trip to Dojo Darelir and then through the magic mirror into Sawrey. She turns to Xenograg and says stiffly, “Will you be staying or returning right away?”

Xenograg answers carefully, “We should not leave this.. situation unresolved.”

Tele studies him for a moment. “Very well, my study.” She sweeps past him, pushing the door open to the castle. It was dark and quiet with only a few lamps on the walls lit casting long deep shadows. Tele kept her focus straight ahead not even acknowledging the guards. When they reached the study, the elves on either side of the door straightened and opened the study door. “Thank you.” She murmurs. Almost at once a chambermaid appears to light the candles. “Please bring tea.” The girl exits and closes the door. She hears Xenograg take a deep breath.

“Tele…”

Now the chambermaid had left Tele turned to look at Xenograg, her face hardened with anger. Xenograg appears confused and even frustrated. Knowing Xenograg well, she knows he does not understand what she is angry with.

”What do you find so hard to believe?” She says. She sits and gestures to another chair. Xenograg sits, confusion etched on his face.

“That I am angry?”

“But at what? Whom?” Xenograg asks then suddenly stops speaking. Tele huffs in impatience.

“I am angry with you.” She finally replies. He blinks.

“Well, it is an answer.”

Tea had arrived, Tele waits until the maid left the room and the door closed.

“You have never been angry with me before, Tele.” He moves to the tray and pours tea in the cups. He hands one cup to Tele, who accepts it but sets it immediately on the table. She was too angry to enjoy the tea.

“Nay, I have had little reason to be angry. I have always felt I could trust you.

Xenograg looks up at her in surprise. “Felt; Why the past tense?”

Tele went on as if he didn’t ask a question. “I have played host to you and your family more than once. I have been roused more than once to tend to your wounds even when I was weak from Vanion's torture.” She takes a deep breath. “I have played host to your children, and you know has been treated as one of my own. I understand that you would speak to your daughters after their escapade to the village, to remove them is an insult to this castle and to me, when more than once I have had to worry about Mystic leaving, Alia Anor when she left for that Temple.

Again he answer with his usual politeness; “I...have misunderstood your mood, it seems.”

Teleperien goes on without acknowledging his reply. “Is this how you treat your family? Favoring one over the others?”

He seems stunned.

“My mood? My moods has little to do with this.” She says with a cold look. A wave of cold now flows through the room.

“I meant no slight to your guardianship, Tele. My girls are making that duty harder than it should be for you. I wish to make that right.” He stammers.

“You have been away on your wars, tracking lost dragons and fawning over everyone else except those who are loyal to you” She now is sounding hurt and in her heart she feels she knows she’s wrong, but her hurt was deep.

“Tele, how can you say such a thing?”

A smirk plays on her face. He is still without understanding.

“You have been first in loyalty to me, and I to you.” Xenograg replies. These continual polite comebacks made Tele impatient. She wanted him to defend himself. She presses further.

“You may take your daughters from this castle. I have little to say
in the matter.”

She could see he was taking another deep breath. “Little to say? You are the mistress of this house. I accepted that when I brought my family under its roof.”

Tele steeples her fingers as she answer coldly, “I am not ward of a prison.”

“No one said you were.” He replied, eyebrows knitting together. Tele wanted to cry. She wanted to cry out.. “You never asked how I was aside from the polite inquiries, how badly Vanion hurt me.” It was the elven stamina that saved her life. Yes, Xenograg headed the rescue party but it was Gwindor who remained at her side. It hurt to know he took little interest. Or so it appeared. She continued to lash out.

“You and your family may come... and go as they wish. I have never denied you that freedom. Yet, I am not without limits Xenograg”

“You have been a peerless host, Teleperien. No one could ask for better. It is I who should be accommodating you, not the reverse.”

Silence

“If I may return to the beginning?” He asked. Tele nods, her face emotionless.

“If Borin's pronouncements are sufficient for you, they are sufficient
for me. And I will speak to both girls about their responsibilities to their hostess, such as not teleporting to the City without a word. That is courtesy, if nothing else.”

“Going to the village without escort was not a serious transgression.
It was a simple childish act. If you feel you must speak to your daughters, you are right to do so. I am more concerned with their safety.”

“There is no one I trust more in that, my friend.” He replied.
“I feel Xenograg, that though I have acted in as best manner I could, the decision to remove Amanda and as you said yourself, in favor of Mystic before you even spoke to me about this I found insulting.”

She stands and goes to the window, a habit she had when she was troubled. Xenograg says to her. “Tele, there is something you may not be aware of. A reason I appear to treat the girls differently.”

She puts her hands behind her back..then answers “What is that?”

“Amanda can travel to Barsi and return. I cannot take Mystic there.
She must remain in Rhydin. I am more constrained in her care. Especially now with the Dojo...haunted.”

“How does this make it different? I have accepted your daughters travel with you, Mystic not as often.”

“Different in that I could punish Amanda by sending her back to Barsi. That is not an option with Mystic. I have not thought of constraining Amanda to Mystic's circumstances. I need your hospitality, Tele, for Mystic at the least. It is a great comfort to me.”

“I am queen, but not without feeling or limit. Take care Xenograg that
you do not take my patience for license.”

“When have I ever? Tele, we had a misunderstanding.”

“No, you made an assumption.” She snaps as she turns to look at Xenograg. An eyebrow raised in surprise.

“I was trying to show you I take my parental responsibilities seriously.”

“I have not seen you take an active interest before.” Came her cold reply.

“That is unkind.” Came his shocked response. Tele did not care. She only turned back to look out the window.

“Do you have any suggestions, my friend?” Oh, that maddening differential tone. Why does he not strike out?

“Nay, I leave the decision to you Xenograg. I will not interfere in what you think best.” This time her voice was gentler. It was less cold.

“Best is not changing anything. You are still willing, and I am grateful to leave it so.”

“I know Erwyn is fond of Amanda and they have a close bond.” She says.

“Yes.”

“I am glad they will stay.” She replies quietly. She was not mollified but she was tired. Xenograg turns and meets her eyes.

“So am I.” He says as he smiles. He pauses and glances around her face and blinks. Tele does not return the smile, her hands held tightly together. He asks, “Is there something else bothering you, Tele? You look as though something is still on your mind.”

“Only the entire realm of Eldicor.” She replies. This time she does have a small smile. But it was not the smile.. but the eyes. Her eyes no longer held the light of the Eldar.

to be continued

[Gwindor]

Gwindor decided it was time to seek out Borin. Borin, a dwarf, is one of Teleperien most trusted member of her staff. He stood by her all through out the difficulties and triumphs during her reign. He could share his deep concerns with Teleperien without being brushed off. He finds Borin in the library where he was in deep conversation with Tom the hobbit who is the realm’s seneschal.

“Borin, I need to..” But he stops mid sentence. Borin had held up a hand.

“This is in regard to the Lady, is it not?” Borin’s deep baritone voice rumbles. Gwindor nods. Borin continues, “Tom here has the same concerns.”

“What is your opinion?” Gwindor asks. Borin looked thoughtful and answers after a pause.

“I have been too close to her not to notice. I do not understand why she is so.”

Gwindor sighs. “It is a hard thing to understand when she has the ability to discern evil, seeing her grow cold and indifferent. Take the visit to her chambers by a stranger to this castle. It is not that I desire the Lady remain alone since her husband’s disappearance, I have to know who visits her to keep her protected!”

“I do not disagree Gwindor.” Borin replies, “It is unlike her. Tom has also told me of his worry.”

“Aye.” Tom says his voice low.. “She has disregarded the matters that she had seen to afore, almost dismissing them without thought. However it is not her actions that I find so alarming as her attitude.”

A silence drops over the trio. Finally Gwindor breaks the silence. “I will go seek out Xenograg. He may have noticed and the queen listens to his counsel.”

“I can only hope.” Borin replies. With that, they left the library.

[Xenograg]

Xenograg is a busy man despite rising before dawn every day in Barsi. He performs his daily sorcerous rituals before waking Amaltea at mid-morning. Then he is off to Eldicor to apprentice his daughters, Amanda and Mystic, which lasts until noon. He returns to Barsi for lunch with Amaltea and his sons, followed by a short siesta of meditation or an actual nap. The afternoons are given to his duties in Barsi, with the occasional inclusion of Xenodar or Eldicor. Evenings are Xenograg's flexible time. They run the gamut from court socializing (Barsi and Eldicor), to dueling, to a private evening with family (one of the halves) or friends. Whenever possible, Xenograg returns to Eldicor to bid goodnight to Amanda and Mystic. Finally, back to Barsi to do the same for his sons (if not too late) and to bed with Amaltea.

( Cross-posted to Legendazona, Murdered in Life. )

[QueenTeleperien]

Dreams were getting worse. More than once Teleperien woke with start, sometimes sitting bolt upright gasping for breath. Again and again she would see the leering face of Vanion and his creepy sidekick. She would feel the hooks that suspended her from the floor as her breath would come in gasps. She pondered contacting Alatar. He may or may not come at her summons. He has not denied her.. yet.

In the late afternoon sun she watched as an unknown ship sailed from the harbor. The ship held no interest for her; it was not the Lady Venture. Probably a trade ship of some sort. Unexpectedly sadness welled in her. Not the self-pity of neglect but of loneliness. Xenograg was busy with his own problems; she even looked for the unexpected visits by Artemus. Not that she was overly fond of his arrogance; at least he was someone to talk to. Borin haunted her steps when he thought she didn’t hear him. A small smile came to her face. ‘Silly dwarf.’ She said to herself.

A knock came to the study door. Tele didn’t answer. The knock came louder and the baritone voice of Borin called through the key hole. “Lady? Are you well?”

With a sigh Tele left her window and opened the door herself, the sturdy dwarf gave her a quizzical look. “Yes Borin, I am well enough. Are the girls pestering you again?”

“Nay Lady.” He answered. “But you are needed in the garden. I hear the faeries through the door, I believe a cat got in there, and I do not go in there.”

“Oh dear, let’s go take a look.” Tele replied.

“Lady, forgive me, but I have another matter in the kitchen to see to.”

“Of course, it would not have much to do with the new cooks would it?” Tele asked with a grin as they walked down the hall. Borin hemmed and hawed and said;

“I just wish to make certain they are comfortable.”

“Of course you do!” Tele exclaimed. “I will see to the cat myself.”

The pair broke off into different directions, Borin to the kitchen and Tele toward her garden. She slid the key from her pocket and she started to unlock it when the door slowly opened.

“Those girls left the door ajar, no wonder a cat got in.” She muttered to herself. Entering the garden she sensed more than the presence of a cat. Slowly she made her way down the path. It was totally silent. Usually there was some sort of bird piping in the branches of the mallorn.

“Is someone there? You are in the queen’s private garden. Come forward!”

She held her hand out and in it appeared her ancient blade Illuvator.
“Again I say, show yourself!” (also posted in "Return of a Pirate Husband)

[Artemus Kurgen]

The new day found the druid and former keeper of earth moving through a valley to the east of Rhydin City. Staff thudding on the dirt covered ground, he slowly made his way to a large impression in the floor of the valley.

"The one mistake I need to correct before I can move forward with my plans. Restoring the Keep to it's proper place in this world." Nodding to himself, Artemus reviewed his ideas on how to return his family home to the world of the living. Alone he couldn't possibly restore it fully, but with some help, with the proper help he could do it. "But where do I turn?" Rhaine he could not go to about this, she'd just laugh at him and tell him to solve it on his own, or maybe try to bargain. No, she was out on this one.

"What about my team Captain, Esper?" Would he be willing to aid him in this endeavor? Possibly, but Artemus was not all the way sure he wanted him to become connected to the Keep on the level that would be required.

"Could possibly ask Xenograg, but the General had far too much on his plate already" so that pushed him out of the running.

"Who can I choose? I have only a handful of friends, but I do not feel it they are strong enough to help in this task. So where do I turn?" Kicking the ground with a sandaled foot, he began to walk a slow circuit around the impression. " I cast it to that other plan on my own, of course I was in a heightened emotional state, but it would take something large to push me that far again...so what do I do?"

Boughing his head in thought, Artemus circled the only evidence of what rested within that large valley. "What to do, what to do, what to do? I wonder if Teleperien's court mage would have any advice to offer? This Alatar, least I think that was his name, maybe he'll have something to offer. Put him on the list for later."

Artemus seemed to brighten at this aspect, another tie and good light to place him in good spirits with Eldicor. "Why did my ideas continually draw me to that place?"

Pushing the thought away, he once more began to reflect on who else could aid him. "I feel it will take three people, myself and two others, linked together to cast the right spell to restore my families home to the corporeal realm. I think this should be a family affair, but Sylus is off doing gods know what, and I bound Amaris's powers...so where do I turn?"

Mystic

The thought hit him almost out of nowhere. Glancing around, he focused on his surroundings, trying to see what would like to remain hidden. "Was that my thought...or someone elses?" Not sure how to answer that questions, Artemus added Mystic to the list.

With some avenues to search through, the druid focused and pulled the image of an eagle to the forefront of his mind. Within seconds, he was flying through the air, heading for the Dojo Derelir, he had a question for Xenograg. Then it was off to Eldicor, Artemus needed to scheduel an audience with the court mage.


( Cross posted in Kurgen Keep)

[Artemus Kurgen]

A small golem with a cherubic face, the size of a small child slowly materailized out of the flooring outside of the queen's study and handed a missive to the guard standing watch.

"To Queen Teleperien" it was simply addressed.

The guard acceptted it with a direct stare at the golem, turning to knock at the door of the study. Its little hands fold behind it's back, waiting patiently, one foot tipped on toe in a cute manner, turning back and forth. Several moments pass, till finally the door opens, a hobbit answering. "Aye?" The little golem waved vigorously at the hobbit, it's cherubic face smiling broadly as it dipped a curtsy.

Standing behind the hobbit, Teleperien gave the small golem a curious look. "Yes?" The hobbit then handed her the missive."Who is this from?"

" From my master, High Druid of the Godess Meilikkei." It replied in a voice that matched it's size. Sounding as that of a child around 8 or 9. Slowly she opened the missive,breaking the seal and unfolding the paper. the missive is written in a flowing script, elegant yet simple:

"Your Majesty,
I humbly request an audience with you, at your leisure of course."

At the bottom of the page is the name:

"Artemus Kurgen,
High Druid of Meilikkei,"

The Queen looked up at the child-golem, finding that one foot is still up on tip-toe, turning from side to side anxiously, in a very childlike manner, hands behind it's back once more.

"Bide a moment" Dropping into a deep curtsy, head lowering respectfully. "As your Majesty wishes.." Teleperien then turned back into the room and picking up the quill on Tom's desk. Sliding a piece of parchment toward the golem, feminine script writing thus:

"Artemus,
I will have time this eve. Do not appear in the court yard, but outside the gate and allow the guard give you enterance. You will be escorted to my study."

She folded the paper and sealed it. On the front writing:

"Artemus Kurgen,
High Druid of Meilikkei "

Then she was walking to the door, handing the letter to the child-golem. Smiling sweetly it took the letter from her and placed it into a small pouch at her waist. "Thank you your Majesty." It dropped into another low curtsly, the dress about it's rocky frame seeming to be the same as what made up it's body.

"My name is Moira, should have stated that at first, sorry for being so rude, master would be ashamed if he knew. He says to always be polite and couteous.." She seemed to babble a little bit as children tend to do.

Offering her a calming smile the queen bade her to stop. "Thank you Moira." The child-golem stopped speaking almost immediately and smiled in embarassment. Then curtsied again, nodding vigorously before slowly sinking into the floor, still babbling apologies for the rudeness till she vanished completely.

Bewildered, the queen, hobbit and guard could only stare as the child sunk into the floor . " That was ... unusual." Shaking her head, Teleperien turned back into the room, the door closing behind her.

Moira's head popped back out of the floor at those words "It's how we golems travel when we need to be somewhere quickly doncha know?" Then she is gone for good, leaving the elven guard blinking repeatedly in confusion.

[Artemus Kurgen]

(( OOC: This is an old post, from the 2nd page of the thread Kurgen Keep, to help explain the incident that is forthcoming))

His plans were slowly coming to fruition, what he had been waiting on had arrived. Moving through the dark streets of Rhydin, the young once druid made his way to a dark shop in Badside. Keeping to the shadows he knocked on the door thrice as was the signal to gain entrance this late at night.

The shop keeper was a diminutive block of flab and bones. His hair even this late at night was lice ridden and his clothing was vastly rumpled appearing to be his sleepwear as well as his work clothes. Grumbling about the hour he eyed the young man warily taking note of his dark robes and the staff in his hands.

“Fine....bring yon carcass inside 'fore sum’ on sees ye.” With a less than discreet emission of flatulence he waited till the lad was standing by a nearby counter before shutting the door. "Now...” The merchant finally spoke after a moment’s pause to make sure no one had followed his after-hours customer. “What business brings ye hence to me shop? Speak quick else I'll toss ye out" The youth with the dark robes only offered an amused smile trying to imagine this overconfident milksop trying to manhandle him.

Deciding it best to get down to business the youth with the staff cleared his throat, and uttered a single word. Before the shopkeeper could react he was launched across the room into a large high-backed chair. Flipping backwards with the furniture piece, the man groaned once before falling into unconsciousness. A small trickle of blood coming from the back of his head where it struck the corner of a bookshelf.

Humming a comforting dirge, the Artemus walked toward a large chest hidden in a corner. With cold efficiency he undid the meager warding and pathetic poison dart trap. He was vastly unimpressed thus far. Spotting his quarry instantly, the young mage grabbed a large black book that seemed to absorb the light of the room. Turning around he looked at the still form of the shop owner and frowned. “I am many things. But a thief is something I am not." With a curt nod a large bag appeared on the counter filled with more than enough gold to pay for the book and the shopkeeper's now wounded pride. Putting the book into a sack, he strode through the back entrance shutting the door behind him, the multiple locks and booby traps sliding back into place as if they had never been disturbed.

******
(( Hours later ))

The book safely put away in a safe place, Artemus decided it might be nice to watch the Arch mage Tourney. Arriving in his usual fashion of simply materializing from the shadows; he headed for his table near in the more shadowed part of the Isle. Spotting him, Rhaine made her way over to his table. She seemed to be spending quite a bit of time with him lately; despite her distance and his trifling attempts to appear indifferent he had a feeling of attachment outside of the direct link she had created.

They spoke idly for a time of the events unfolding within Rhydin, and among their allies and acquaintances. Then Vanion bragged about his abduction of the Elvin Queen Teleperien. For all his magical gifts...Vanion Shadowcast was a fool in Art's eyes. Whenever things do not go his way…he abducts someone like a child throwing a temper tantrum. This thought he spoke aloud for all to hear, knowing it was true in many folk’s minds. He mainly spoke it out loud because Vanion had called HIM a fool, for speaking of a universal truth. That those whom we tend to walk upon and consider beneath of us are always those that end up defeating us. The tournament went swiftly with the final match being between Brigath and Vanion. The Keeper of Air had disappointed Art by losing. At some point the current Arch mage, Vincent Smith, had left. With the Arch mage not around, the final match was postponed and the rings opened for the masses to duel at long last. It was a slow night for duels and saw Artemus even out with a single win and a loss. Sighing heavily he walked back to his table that appeared at any venue he decided to attend. Lounging wearily in his seat he watched the last duel of the evening as the caller had announced the closing of the Queue. Out of nowhere, without a warning, the same book he had 'acquired' only hours before appeared in front of him on the table. "What are you doing here?" he asked himself more than anyone else at the sudden appearance of the book unbidden. Not understanding what had called it to him, Artemus reached out with a cautious hand to grab the book. Just as his fingers were about to fall onto the book, silver runes embedded on the cover flared to life, the book slid away from his hand. “By Shar's grace... “He swore softly, frowning at the books behavior. Muttering a few soft Umbrian words the book levitated into the air. ~Least I can still control it......but...why did it flee....and more importantly.....why did it com here? ~ He thought to himself. Reaching out to touch the book again he felt the subtle vibrations as it fought his spell to get away from him. Letting the book float back down to the table he noticed Rhaine had walked over to his table.

"Perhaps the book wishes you to go somewhere" With a shrug he looked at the book in regards to the comment issued by Rhaine. "What is its' intent? " he asked rhetorically. Stretching slightly Rhaine shrugged. “There’s only one way to find out - to test" With a sigh he reached out to touch the book for the third and final time. As he did so its pages opened to a place he had not seen before. “What in the Nine...” he muttered softly as he leaned closer to look at the strange but familiar glowing script on the page before him.”Why...this looks like..." before he could finish the thought the book flared to life pulling him inside of its enspelled pages. With a flutter of aged parchment the book closed, the runes flashing one last time.

Coughing several times he walked out of the haze that had greeted him upon being pulled into the book. Blinking his eyes repeatedly he adjusted them to the darkness he found beyond the haze. He appeared to be in a large chamber that looked several centuries old, the tiles on the floor were cracked and broken, bones littered the floor. The only source of light to be found came from six large bronze braziers scattered throughout the room. The closest to his current position was approximately three hundred feet to his right. Heading towards it, he started to rub his arms with his hands trying to dispel the chill that had swept into the room from out of nowhere.

Just when he began to feel the warmth coming from the glowing fire in the brazier it went out right before his eyes, preceded by a raspy whisper. “Shadows do not need heat…” Spinning around his gray eyes scanned the darkness calmly trying to figure out the direction the voice had come from. “Why’d you bring me here?” He suppressed the urge to ask the stupidly overused ~who’s there?!~ He looked into the deeper shadows trying to identify his ‘friend’ in hiding.

Artemus was half way to the next closest brazier when that same raspy voice spoke in his ear. “To complete your training…acolyte…” Whirling around to face the owner of that whisper he just about tripped on a small pile of bones he failed to notice at his feet. Just barely catching his balance he looked around wildly, a series of curses coming to his tongue but none of them finding a voice.

“My training…What do you mean…‘complete my training?’. I have the final book…..my ‘training’ is complete.” Before he was even done speaking the owner of that increasingly annoying raspy voice was laughing wildly, the sound like nails on glass.

“Your final lesson is not done….you have one task left to complete.” As if his words had been a cue or trigger all of the braziers around the room abruptly extinguished themselves, plunging the room into an impregnable darkness. Artemus soon found that even his infrared vision was useless in this shadowed place.

“What do I have to do….Umbrian? “ He asked trying and failing to bring a ball of light to his hand. “Magic from the school of light will not work in this place…acolyte. To succeed here…you must use your true power…your…dark…power.”

“My…dark…power…” He repeated aloud, understanding dawning on him. This was a test to see how far along the path to becoming an Umbramancer he was. Focusing his thoughts to make them attuned to the shadows he summoned to mind the first spell he had learned. Speaking the trigger phrase, six bolts of red lightning shot out of his outstretched hands to fill the braziers with black fire, filling the room with an eerie light. Clapping resounded in the room as the lit braziers that immediately went out and were re-lit with normal fire. Blue electricity crackled along the walls of the room. Out of nowhere he was assailed by great agony, his whole body racked with pain making him fall to the floor, he could feel himself changing. The torture went on for several minutes before subsiding, leaving him lying on the floor gasping for breath. “The change has begun…” Came the voice of his ‘teacher’. “Your body is becoming shadow….for the most part anyway…” Even without being told, Artemus could feel his body changing, becoming lighter losing physical substance.

Looking around again he finally found his voice after several tries at speaking, his voice was slightly raspy, not quite like the being testing him. “Show yourself…” He called out trying to cough away the rasp in his tone. “As you wish” came the increasingly amused sounding reply.

Like a black tornado the Umbamancer made himself known, his tall wiry frame covered by tattered and torn black robes. The cowl pulled up over his head hid his face completely from view except for two icy blue dots glowing faintly in the recessed darkness of the hood. His robes looked to be made of dark smoke, swirling in upon themselves as if there was no physical body beneath them.

“Here I am….are you ready for the last part of your training?” He asked calmly, his voice emotionless. With a sigh Artemus nodded to the old being and rotated his neck causing it to issue several satisfying cracks. Stepping away from Artemus by several feet, a black staff appeared in the Umbrian’s hand. “You must best me in combat…using all of the Umbrae magic you have learned thus far.” Steeling himself, Artemus readied for the fight of his life.

Not even waiting for the old Umbrian to begin muttering the slightest incantation he sent bolts of searing dark fire coursing towards the Shadow Mage. To his disappointment he only got the satisfaction of watching the bolts be absorbed into the beings tattered robes. Before the last ball of black fire even struck he had his next spell up and ready a line of white light flashing towards the Mage destroying shadows that got into it’s path. The beam never got anywhere near his adversary before it the old one’s image wavered like a disturbed image in the water.
Sensing movement off to the left, he dove into a roll and was rewarded with a whoosh of air as something sliced overhead. Pivoting to the side and rolling again he left a cloud of black mist in his wake, hoping to cloud his movements from the skilled caster.

Out of nowhere large hands made of pure shadow enveloped his lean frame. Holding him by the ankles the hands set about treating him like a rug that needed cleaning. Crashing into one pillar after another he felt rib after rib crack and break, something punctured his lung. The side of his head made fast friends with yet another pillar as he spit up what seemed like several pints of blood. Then the hands let go. Flying through the air he had the vague feeling of an approaching wall but wasn’t coherent enough to cast a spell to soften the blow. He met the wall in a painful embrace, his form indenting the stone a few inches. As he fell to the floor with a pained groan he managed to release one final spell and was rewarded with an agonized scream as his spell flared to life when the Umbramancer came in close to finish him off.

“Eat that you fv<k!” Watching the ancient Umbrian writhe in pain was satisfying but he knew it wasn’t over yet. Muttering soft shadowed incantations a blade made of pure darkness appeared in his outstretched hand. “Guess…I…passed.” He said before he brought the dark sword down in an arc aiming to pierce his opponents’ heart. Laughing maniacally the Umbramancer at Artemus’s feet began fading.
The weeks had passed monotonously after Artemus had bested the Umbrian to finish his training, he was still unsure how he had beaten the ancient master...something told he had not truly killed the creature...only changed it. And himself. That monotony was only broken by his meeting Shandren and then rescuing Queen Teleperien of Eldicor from Vanion Shadowcast's Myr'khulian Temple.

Again, his plans were coming to fruition...he had redeemed himself to Teleperien, and...More importantly of all...He was not a Keeper on the Twilight Isle. The duel in itself was somewhat a blur...as if he was not truly dueling. It felt like someone else had been in the driver's seat that was his mind. Try as he might to shake off the feeling...he couldn't....whenever he looked in the mirror...his image seemed distorted...altered. It felt like a part of that millennia old Umbrian had joined with him...their power mixed and mingled to make him something more. But what more could he be? To that question....there were no answers as of yet and still life was moving on. But there was a change in the shadows he felt more keenly, now that he was practically a shadow himself. Traveling through the shadows was no longer a spell or an ability he had mastered.....he could move through them at will now. He didn't need to ask any sub layer creature to let him in...Didn’t need to avoid those dark beings that lived in the shadows. They avoided him...they asked him to travel amongst them...they...now feared and respected him. That in itself was rare and unnerving because...the only beings the shadow demons and spirits respected or feared....were beings like themselves. He had mastered one of the hardest schools of magic....but what was the price for doing so? Still, life for the younger Kurgen was moving on, even if it was moving onto something that would test him more than anything before. But would he be able to pass the test...or would it destroy him utterly? Destroy him...and all those he knew and cared.