Saltera wouldn't leave, and what I had in mind was not something pleasant. The deaths I would have tonight would be ugly.
Malchor had his old cronies with him. The same monstrosities that had been there in Annara at the 'feast' to celebrate their victories. These were souls I would see wiped out forever rather than returned to Riverbend.
I looked across the space that would have been my courtyard long minutes before looking Saltera in the eyes. "Dae ye d'sire tae coome wi' me, Ah cannae stop ye. Yer trackin' o' me usin' mine oon transportation spell was unexpected."
With that, I vanished from sight and re-formed inside the crumbling ruins of my creation. Malchor was not present, but his support leaders were seated around a table in deep discussion.
I coalesced, my staff in hand before addressing them in Annaran. Their shocked expressions told me they'd thought themselves safe, but they were not.'
The spell was one of the cruelest I could devise. They were frozen in their positions, as though a photograph in three dimensions. They could see and hear everything around them, but not interact. They also knew, because I told them, that their suspended animation would end when they were touched. They would disintegrate into dust the moment they were touched by another living thing. Whether it was an insect, or one of their own, it would not matter. They would be reduced to fine debris to blow away on the winds.
I walked among them as I described the effects of this spell. I couldn't look at Saltera. What I was doing was cruel. It wasn't a clean kill.
It was however, better than they deserved. My only sorrow, Malchor was not here to share their fate.
There were 36 monsters lounging in my former home. I reached out and touched Lord Targorrin. There was a shattering of his image before minute particles of him drifted into a pile of dust at my feet.
Without another word, I turned toward Saltera, and as I walked toward him, faded from sight. I did not wish to see his expression.
The War of Ages...
Moderator: Tasslehofl Momus
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Alais d Nitesong
- Expert Adventurer
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- Joined: Sat May 15, 2004 11:52 am
- Location: Matlal, Riverbend, I' Taurn or Nitesong, depending on time of year
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Saltera watched as Alais described the spell she had cast, it was merciful in his mind but she acted as if she was ashamed by her actions. She strode past him and disappeared into the night.
Saltera looked around at the creatures that had invaded this world. They were abominations that made his kin look angelic by comparison. He smiled grimly, he wouldn't have to tell Alais about what he was about to do. The spell was interesting but his study of Annaran magic had taught him a few things.
He unsheathed his dagger and cut his palm feeling the stab of pain fill his mind. His voice rang out in a deep timbre that mimicked Alais' earlier spell but near the end his voice dropped and became harsh mixing the Annaran magic and that of his native tongue. His blood misted and floated through the air soaking into the frozen beings. He could feel the pain emanating from the beings. His alteration had put them all in a state of everlasting pain and terror as they experienced all of the terrors and tortures that they had inflicted on their victims through out the millenia. They would long for the peace of obliteration in every instant of their remaining time. He started to turn away but instead quickly erected wards around them. He didn't want them to find release too quickly.
With an ugly smile Saltera turned and followed Alais, "Pleasant dreams," he whispered as he faded away.
Saltera looked around at the creatures that had invaded this world. They were abominations that made his kin look angelic by comparison. He smiled grimly, he wouldn't have to tell Alais about what he was about to do. The spell was interesting but his study of Annaran magic had taught him a few things.
He unsheathed his dagger and cut his palm feeling the stab of pain fill his mind. His voice rang out in a deep timbre that mimicked Alais' earlier spell but near the end his voice dropped and became harsh mixing the Annaran magic and that of his native tongue. His blood misted and floated through the air soaking into the frozen beings. He could feel the pain emanating from the beings. His alteration had put them all in a state of everlasting pain and terror as they experienced all of the terrors and tortures that they had inflicted on their victims through out the millenia. They would long for the peace of obliteration in every instant of their remaining time. He started to turn away but instead quickly erected wards around them. He didn't want them to find release too quickly.
With an ugly smile Saltera turned and followed Alais, "Pleasant dreams," he whispered as he faded away.
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Alais d Nitesong
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 861
- Joined: Sat May 15, 2004 11:52 am
- Location: Matlal, Riverbend, I' Taurn or Nitesong, depending on time of year
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I left behind the shells of Malchor's cronies, knowing that what I had done was wrong. I should have killed them outright, not tormented them and left them to consider their fates. Daemonbane stirred against my back, "for what they had done, they had not suffered enough," the blade whispered insidiously.
I had toyed with them! Only the Goddess could forgive me for that transgression.
I solidified once again on the beach near a series of deep caverns created when molten rock had run out and left hollow tubes behind. I would spend the night here. Surely Saltera did not expect me to return to Odhran after Tass' clear orders for me to leave. I would ward one of the tunnels, it would suffice.
I heard movement inside the cavern, and I listened, going motionless.
Then a smile lit my features. Garl and 2 other silvers appeared at the tube entrance. I dropped my cloak of darkness and greeted them. Garl had drawn a wicked looking blade, but sheathed it just as quickly. I found myself enveloped in a hug that might have crushed bones. The great dragon was genuinely happy to see me, and we entered the cavern they had been using.
As he reset his wards, Saltera appeared a step behind where I had coalesced. Garl gave very little outward sign of surprise, but Saltera's manner of arrival looked very, very Annaran.
They let him into the cavern, and we sat to discuss what the morrow would bring. Saltera and I would send the Annaran's from the battle field tomorrow at sunrise. We would have to be in place before then. Timing was everything, our words and casting must be in sync, despite the distances being too great to hear or clearly see one another. We had one last run through, without words to make certain we were in concert.
The black sand was warm, and as I curled up in my cloak, I let exhaustion take me into the realm of dreams.
Dark dreams.
Pain and torment.
Memories relived.
Suffering.
Something had touched Annarans, bringing forth the agony of millenia of destruction and havoc.
I woke abruptly, to find Garl had curled up at my back. My friend and protector once more.
Resting my head upon my arm, he shifted to wrap one around my shoulders before sleep came once again.
I stood amidst carnage and destruction. In my hands, I held Daemonbane before me, soaked in blood and ichor. Smoke clouded my vision as a horseman rode at a hard gallop toward me. A great black destrier, with a man dressed in unrelieved black rode the beast hard. Foam dropped from the horses mouth and bit as they halted. The man slid from the war horse, familiar eyes swept over me, coming to rest upon the blade in my hand. He took a step toward me, his hand outstretched....
Garl shook me awake, "we must be going."
I had toyed with them! Only the Goddess could forgive me for that transgression.
I solidified once again on the beach near a series of deep caverns created when molten rock had run out and left hollow tubes behind. I would spend the night here. Surely Saltera did not expect me to return to Odhran after Tass' clear orders for me to leave. I would ward one of the tunnels, it would suffice.
I heard movement inside the cavern, and I listened, going motionless.
Then a smile lit my features. Garl and 2 other silvers appeared at the tube entrance. I dropped my cloak of darkness and greeted them. Garl had drawn a wicked looking blade, but sheathed it just as quickly. I found myself enveloped in a hug that might have crushed bones. The great dragon was genuinely happy to see me, and we entered the cavern they had been using.
As he reset his wards, Saltera appeared a step behind where I had coalesced. Garl gave very little outward sign of surprise, but Saltera's manner of arrival looked very, very Annaran.
They let him into the cavern, and we sat to discuss what the morrow would bring. Saltera and I would send the Annaran's from the battle field tomorrow at sunrise. We would have to be in place before then. Timing was everything, our words and casting must be in sync, despite the distances being too great to hear or clearly see one another. We had one last run through, without words to make certain we were in concert.
The black sand was warm, and as I curled up in my cloak, I let exhaustion take me into the realm of dreams.
Dark dreams.
Pain and torment.
Memories relived.
Suffering.
Something had touched Annarans, bringing forth the agony of millenia of destruction and havoc.
I woke abruptly, to find Garl had curled up at my back. My friend and protector once more.
Resting my head upon my arm, he shifted to wrap one around my shoulders before sleep came once again.
I stood amidst carnage and destruction. In my hands, I held Daemonbane before me, soaked in blood and ichor. Smoke clouded my vision as a horseman rode at a hard gallop toward me. A great black destrier, with a man dressed in unrelieved black rode the beast hard. Foam dropped from the horses mouth and bit as they halted. The man slid from the war horse, familiar eyes swept over me, coming to rest upon the blade in my hand. He took a step toward me, his hand outstretched....
Garl shook me awake, "we must be going."
Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe
Saltera watched as Alais settled down to sleep. The silvers set a guard and Garl settled down next to her. He watched her sleeping and wondered about what the next day would bring. She'd been giving him strange looks ever since he'd agreed to participate in the ritual to remove the Annarans permanently. She was expecting them both to die in the morning and she hadn't found a way to tell him yet.
He grinned. The elf had grown on him in the time he'd spent with her. She was alot like his brother, wrapped up in the past and crimes that seemed unforgivable. Both of them trying so hard to make up for something they couldn't control that they threw themselves into danger again and again. Both of them trying to save the world. He shook his head and leaned back against the wall of the cave.
He openned the third book and began to absorb the magic within. It took only minutes and the spells were his. He understood their purpose and it scared him but he couldn't turn back now.
His mind wandered to all of the beings he'd met here. All the good innocent people that the demons had hurt or killed. He looked down at Alais and the dragons as they slept waiting for the coming day and he sighed deeply. Somethings were worth dying for.
He grinned. The elf had grown on him in the time he'd spent with her. She was alot like his brother, wrapped up in the past and crimes that seemed unforgivable. Both of them trying so hard to make up for something they couldn't control that they threw themselves into danger again and again. Both of them trying to save the world. He shook his head and leaned back against the wall of the cave.
He openned the third book and began to absorb the magic within. It took only minutes and the spells were his. He understood their purpose and it scared him but he couldn't turn back now.
His mind wandered to all of the beings he'd met here. All the good innocent people that the demons had hurt or killed. He looked down at Alais and the dragons as they slept waiting for the coming day and he sighed deeply. Somethings were worth dying for.
They were engaged in discussion regarding why I had come to this place. I might inquire the same of them given the situation in their home islands. Pausing before the image of the one I recognized as the entity that had come to remove Alais from Riverbend, I stated simply that it was his home where my people now resided.
He gave me a stiff bow of acknowledgement. I do suspect it is not something he regularly does. Thus, he knew as well who I was. Good. This would make things more direct and reduce the need for explanations.
There was no point in opening with inane chat, and I told him that his guest did not know of my release. Neither did my people. The fact that my bonds had been broken as well needed to remain unknown until my appearance upon the ridge where Alais would attempt to send them back, and where she expects to join me in my place among the dead in a world she is not fated to join.
The other stood beside the ruler of the invaded lands. His smile was a thin parody of humor as he listened. This one I knew had held my books, I could feel the touch in his presence. This one had taken them to places they never should have gone. This one had made matters worse.
The Lord of the Islands asked me what about Alais. He seemed to understand the meaning of my presence. I would send my people back, and Alais would once more be the anchor to hold what would remain of his land in this place while my entities would be removed. However, she did not need to know this yet. The morning would be soon enough for her to learn that. And, the reason I have come to Rhydin must be seen to conclusion before the morning. My answer was somewhat quixotic, but I did tell him that anchors for my art would not ever be removed. In short, Alais would remain in his world when I was gone.
The other spoke up, informing me that my items were not his to give me, he misunderstood. I was not asking. I was informing. It was courtesy that they know that after tomorrow, the books and the demon blade would be gone if there is any way I can manage it. He was affronted at my announcement, telling me that they were in his care for a time. He knew the books, he knew the contents, and more, but the other did not. At which point he informed me that were it not for his care, they would have done more damage. The reality is that had he not opened the hidden workings of them, the real damage would be lessened. But, he has opened Pandora’s box. Time alone will answer how severe that impact will be.
The other persisted about what brought me to Rhydin. What article of Alais’ did I seek. The article is of greater importance than I care for any to know. Even the recipient has no idea how important this medallion is for both of us. I told him it was a very special medallion, which he had no knowledge and had not ever seen. This is not a surprise. Alais will have stored the medallion as she was told, and now I must only need to retrieve it from her home. There are threads that bind us, and the wards to her home are no hinderance.
The lord of the islands informed me that I could not reach his lands due to the wards I already know are in place. Most entitities could not reach his world, but he forgets, I have no problem arriving through the tear that remains open to Riverbend. Should he close it, he cannot remove the invaders from his land, and so my entrance is not an issue.
The quiet one is wearing black gems that could come from only one place, and as I discussed how I would get the medallion to Alais, I also commented about the danger of the black gems he wears with such recklessness. He courts a danger not even he completely understands.
I left them to retrieve the medallion. Glum’s time at I’ Taurn would serve me well.
I found the house easily. Glum’s influence was at once recognizable, and the medallion formed in my hand at my summons. The wards around the house were good. Designed to keep out anyone, but they did not cover the exodus of any, I will leave Alais with that reminder tomorrow.
The medallion sat warm in my hand. Our blending was now required. Sadly required.
He gave me a stiff bow of acknowledgement. I do suspect it is not something he regularly does. Thus, he knew as well who I was. Good. This would make things more direct and reduce the need for explanations.
There was no point in opening with inane chat, and I told him that his guest did not know of my release. Neither did my people. The fact that my bonds had been broken as well needed to remain unknown until my appearance upon the ridge where Alais would attempt to send them back, and where she expects to join me in my place among the dead in a world she is not fated to join.
The other stood beside the ruler of the invaded lands. His smile was a thin parody of humor as he listened. This one I knew had held my books, I could feel the touch in his presence. This one had taken them to places they never should have gone. This one had made matters worse.
The Lord of the Islands asked me what about Alais. He seemed to understand the meaning of my presence. I would send my people back, and Alais would once more be the anchor to hold what would remain of his land in this place while my entities would be removed. However, she did not need to know this yet. The morning would be soon enough for her to learn that. And, the reason I have come to Rhydin must be seen to conclusion before the morning. My answer was somewhat quixotic, but I did tell him that anchors for my art would not ever be removed. In short, Alais would remain in his world when I was gone.
The other spoke up, informing me that my items were not his to give me, he misunderstood. I was not asking. I was informing. It was courtesy that they know that after tomorrow, the books and the demon blade would be gone if there is any way I can manage it. He was affronted at my announcement, telling me that they were in his care for a time. He knew the books, he knew the contents, and more, but the other did not. At which point he informed me that were it not for his care, they would have done more damage. The reality is that had he not opened the hidden workings of them, the real damage would be lessened. But, he has opened Pandora’s box. Time alone will answer how severe that impact will be.
The other persisted about what brought me to Rhydin. What article of Alais’ did I seek. The article is of greater importance than I care for any to know. Even the recipient has no idea how important this medallion is for both of us. I told him it was a very special medallion, which he had no knowledge and had not ever seen. This is not a surprise. Alais will have stored the medallion as she was told, and now I must only need to retrieve it from her home. There are threads that bind us, and the wards to her home are no hinderance.
The lord of the islands informed me that I could not reach his lands due to the wards I already know are in place. Most entitities could not reach his world, but he forgets, I have no problem arriving through the tear that remains open to Riverbend. Should he close it, he cannot remove the invaders from his land, and so my entrance is not an issue.
The quiet one is wearing black gems that could come from only one place, and as I discussed how I would get the medallion to Alais, I also commented about the danger of the black gems he wears with such recklessness. He courts a danger not even he completely understands.
I left them to retrieve the medallion. Glum’s time at I’ Taurn would serve me well.
I found the house easily. Glum’s influence was at once recognizable, and the medallion formed in my hand at my summons. The wards around the house were good. Designed to keep out anyone, but they did not cover the exodus of any, I will leave Alais with that reminder tomorrow.
The medallion sat warm in my hand. Our blending was now required. Sadly required.
Saltera was still awake and watching when Garl shook Alais awake. It was time. Saltera stood and stretched, his wings unfurling until they touched the sides of the cavern. He turned towards Alais and approached her slowly, he hated final farewells.
He knelt in front of her but before she could speak he raised his taloned hand to stop her. "I think I know and I'd rather not speak of it." He pulled a pendant out of his armor and held it out for her. He dropped it into her hand gently, it was a tiny silver crucifix. "This belonged to my mother...the woman who raised Jon and I. You will be going somewhere very dark before the day is over and this has always reminded me of the light. May it do the same for you." He stood slowly and left the cave without looking back.
As he reached his position he stared out at the rising sun which rolled orange and pink over the sky, at least it looked to be a pretty day. He really would have hated to die cold and wet.
He knelt in front of her but before she could speak he raised his taloned hand to stop her. "I think I know and I'd rather not speak of it." He pulled a pendant out of his armor and held it out for her. He dropped it into her hand gently, it was a tiny silver crucifix. "This belonged to my mother...the woman who raised Jon and I. You will be going somewhere very dark before the day is over and this has always reminded me of the light. May it do the same for you." He stood slowly and left the cave without looking back.
As he reached his position he stared out at the rising sun which rolled orange and pink over the sky, at least it looked to be a pretty day. He really would have hated to die cold and wet.
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Alais d Nitesong
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- Posts: 861
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I was pulled from the dream/vision by Garl as I had requested, but his timing to the dream was undesireable. As I prepared for the ritual and casting, I cast a look at Saltera. I needed to tell him. I believe he knows, but I have yet to tell him personally. Those spells will leave him too weak to escape.
I approached him, resolved to tell him not only that he will not likely survive the day, but how much he had come to mean to me.
He knelt at my approach and would not permit me to put into words what must surely have been written upon my face. He handed me a silver cross that he said his mother had carried. It was a touching gesture from a Tharkoldu and friend. I slipped it around my throat before reaching out to touch his face, whispering an elven blessing upon him before laying one of the staurolite crosses into his hand. I gently closed his taloned fingers around it, "'t ist a soul stone Saltera, 'n a part o' ye ist wi'in 't."
It would keep his soul safe from whatever outcome this war would have.
Garl summoned us. We needed to go. I slid onto my old friend's back, just before his wings, and gave a last look at Saltera before we lifted into the crystal clear pre-dawn sky winging toward the far ridge.
I approached him, resolved to tell him not only that he will not likely survive the day, but how much he had come to mean to me.
He knelt at my approach and would not permit me to put into words what must surely have been written upon my face. He handed me a silver cross that he said his mother had carried. It was a touching gesture from a Tharkoldu and friend. I slipped it around my throat before reaching out to touch his face, whispering an elven blessing upon him before laying one of the staurolite crosses into his hand. I gently closed his taloned fingers around it, "'t ist a soul stone Saltera, 'n a part o' ye ist wi'in 't."
It would keep his soul safe from whatever outcome this war would have.
Garl summoned us. We needed to go. I slid onto my old friend's back, just before his wings, and gave a last look at Saltera before we lifted into the crystal clear pre-dawn sky winging toward the far ridge.
Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe
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Alais d Nitesong
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 861
- Joined: Sat May 15, 2004 11:52 am
- Location: Matlal, Riverbend, I' Taurn or Nitesong, depending on time of year
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The ridge overlooked a huge contingent of the invaders. The dawn revealed an army larger even than Ozymandias' numbers suggested. Revulsion slithered through my blood, at least by sunset, the Annaran's would be gone.
Garl and a couple of silvers stood beside me when Ozymandias flew into sight. I had thought him safely on Odhran, but he hovered in front of me, carrying a very old memory.
The medallion was the first gift Morrin had ever given me. It was made of a flattened disk of moonsilver, taken from my homeland, and embedded into it was the bold, black sigil of Morrin on one side, upon the back etched in Annaran and Elven the following:
"But thou and I are one in kind,
As moulded like in nature's mint;
And hill and wood and field did print
The same sweet forms in either mind."
Below that:
"If thou wert with me, and the grave
Divide us not, be with me now
And enter in at breast and brow,
Till all my blood, a fuller flow
Be quickened with a livelier breath
And like an inconsiderate boy,
As in the former flash of joy
I slip the thoughts of life and death."
Why had Ozy brought me this? Morrin had once bade me keep it safe, yet, here it was, held in Ozy's taloned feet.
I could see Saltera standing atop the far ridge. Not by features did I know it was he, but by his presence.
It was time, and I slid the medallion over my head to begin.
Garl and a couple of silvers stood beside me when Ozymandias flew into sight. I had thought him safely on Odhran, but he hovered in front of me, carrying a very old memory.
The medallion was the first gift Morrin had ever given me. It was made of a flattened disk of moonsilver, taken from my homeland, and embedded into it was the bold, black sigil of Morrin on one side, upon the back etched in Annaran and Elven the following:
"But thou and I are one in kind,
As moulded like in nature's mint;
And hill and wood and field did print
The same sweet forms in either mind."
Below that:
"If thou wert with me, and the grave
Divide us not, be with me now
And enter in at breast and brow,
Till all my blood, a fuller flow
Be quickened with a livelier breath
And like an inconsiderate boy,
As in the former flash of joy
I slip the thoughts of life and death."
Why had Ozy brought me this? Morrin had once bade me keep it safe, yet, here it was, held in Ozy's taloned feet.
I could see Saltera standing atop the far ridge. Not by features did I know it was he, but by his presence.
It was time, and I slid the medallion over my head to begin.
Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe
Jacob was hiding. Outside on the plain some of the dragons were forming up into flights and others would act as ground forces. Across the valley Malchor had assembled his monstrosity of an army and in mere hours the two forces would crash together. And many of them would die. Jacob hated the hours before battle. They always seemed to both take forever and end far too soon. He was hiding from the moment that he'd have to go out and watch his friends die. Adventures were fun, war sucked.
He'd strapped the bombs to his chest over his bandoliers of shells, he laughed to himself that he was a walking bomb himself. If something got to him before he could drop his charges there wouldn't be enough of him to pick up with a sponge. He wondered if they had sponges on this world, and if they did were they natural sponges or like the green and pink ones Giles used to make him use to clean up the kitchen after midnight snacks. He hoped they were the green and pink ones, the natural ones were always so itchy.
He was pulled out of his reverie as Sai Jon burst through the door, "You ready to go?"
Jacob put on his best 'ready for anything' smile and reveled in the slightly green tinge that came to Jon's face at the sight, "Of course. I am a bit worried about what type of sponges they have on this world though." Sai Jon stared at him as if he'd grown another head. He felt the urge to check his neck quickly just in case but the expression was familiar enough that he figured it would have happened long ago if it was going to. "Never mind. Yeah I'm good to go."
"Ok." Sai Jon drew the word out as he struggled to push the sponge comment from his mind. He just knew that one would be waking him up in a cold sweat for days. "Giles is going with you as escort to make sure nothing stops you from dropping the charges at the right time."
Jacob grinned even wider, defying several laws of nature in the process, "Good deal. He'll know about the sponges for sure."
Sai Jon shook his head. Forget cold sweats, it would be screams. "Go on then. And take care of yourself."
"Hey Jon, look at it this way. I survived your brain, I can survive anything." He slipped past Sai Jon and out of the tent before the comment had even sunk in.
Sai Jon smiled ruefully, "The crazy lizard may have a point."
He'd strapped the bombs to his chest over his bandoliers of shells, he laughed to himself that he was a walking bomb himself. If something got to him before he could drop his charges there wouldn't be enough of him to pick up with a sponge. He wondered if they had sponges on this world, and if they did were they natural sponges or like the green and pink ones Giles used to make him use to clean up the kitchen after midnight snacks. He hoped they were the green and pink ones, the natural ones were always so itchy.
He was pulled out of his reverie as Sai Jon burst through the door, "You ready to go?"
Jacob put on his best 'ready for anything' smile and reveled in the slightly green tinge that came to Jon's face at the sight, "Of course. I am a bit worried about what type of sponges they have on this world though." Sai Jon stared at him as if he'd grown another head. He felt the urge to check his neck quickly just in case but the expression was familiar enough that he figured it would have happened long ago if it was going to. "Never mind. Yeah I'm good to go."
"Ok." Sai Jon drew the word out as he struggled to push the sponge comment from his mind. He just knew that one would be waking him up in a cold sweat for days. "Giles is going with you as escort to make sure nothing stops you from dropping the charges at the right time."
Jacob grinned even wider, defying several laws of nature in the process, "Good deal. He'll know about the sponges for sure."
Sai Jon shook his head. Forget cold sweats, it would be screams. "Go on then. And take care of yourself."
"Hey Jon, look at it this way. I survived your brain, I can survive anything." He slipped past Sai Jon and out of the tent before the comment had even sunk in.
Sai Jon smiled ruefully, "The crazy lizard may have a point."
Jacob found Giles waiting at the edge of the camp staring across the valley at the gathering horde, "Morning Giles," he said in a cheery voice.
Giles turned to face the lizardman with a strained sad smile, "Are you ready sir?"
"You know how I love it when you call me sir. Before we go can I ask you a question?" Giles could feel the headache coming over the horizon but against his better judgement he nodded slowly. "Well I was wondering about what kind of sponges you guys kept in the castle, natural or those green and pink ones?"
Giles didn't miss a beat, "Actually sir we use rags, is there anything else or shall we go face the coming storm?"
"Rags...do they soak up blood and guts as well as sponges? I mean I used to use the green and pink ones, and they did really good in cleaning up so I was wondering because if I go splode I really would like to get all picked up for the funeral. Hopefully there will be a funeral because hopefully I'll be the only one that went splode. Besides the natural sponges always smell like fish and they itch and I really wouldn't want to itch and smell bad for all eternity, which when you think about it really is quite a long time really."
Giles smiled at him, "My friend, it's been an honor knowing you...and I assure you the rags will get all of the pieces should it be necessary."
"Oh good," Jacob said simply.
"Shall we go then sir?"
"Let's."
Jacob took to the air as Giles transformed into his dragon form and followed. The demon armies were advancing. The battle had begun.
Giles turned to face the lizardman with a strained sad smile, "Are you ready sir?"
"You know how I love it when you call me sir. Before we go can I ask you a question?" Giles could feel the headache coming over the horizon but against his better judgement he nodded slowly. "Well I was wondering about what kind of sponges you guys kept in the castle, natural or those green and pink ones?"
Giles didn't miss a beat, "Actually sir we use rags, is there anything else or shall we go face the coming storm?"
"Rags...do they soak up blood and guts as well as sponges? I mean I used to use the green and pink ones, and they did really good in cleaning up so I was wondering because if I go splode I really would like to get all picked up for the funeral. Hopefully there will be a funeral because hopefully I'll be the only one that went splode. Besides the natural sponges always smell like fish and they itch and I really wouldn't want to itch and smell bad for all eternity, which when you think about it really is quite a long time really."
Giles smiled at him, "My friend, it's been an honor knowing you...and I assure you the rags will get all of the pieces should it be necessary."
"Oh good," Jacob said simply.
"Shall we go then sir?"
"Let's."
Jacob took to the air as Giles transformed into his dragon form and followed. The demon armies were advancing. The battle had begun.
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Alais d Nitesong
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 861
- Joined: Sat May 15, 2004 11:52 am
- Location: Matlal, Riverbend, I' Taurn or Nitesong, depending on time of year
- Contact:
The medallion was warm as I slipped it over my head, and it lay against my skin as though it belonged there, as if it were a part of me. A calm descended over my thoughts as I turned away from Garl and looked out over the horde of invaders. I did not need to look at where Saltera stood. I knew he was there, I knew he was prepared.
I drove the point of my staff deeply into the ground at my feet as I began the first incantation. The first spell. The one that would slay the dead. The voice of conscience that would have risen in my elven self was silent. There was no remorse this time. Cold purpose drove the casting of the first book’s spells, and there was no doubt, no reluctance, no reservation as the words sang out across the ether to settle into the masses below.
Daemonbane whispered to me from the place it occupied against my back. Coaxing, luring, hoping, it’s voice joined with me as the first book’s spells began to take effect. But I could not watch, there was too much yet to do, and concentration was everything as the power flowed from the ley lines of the island into the staff and was shaped and formed by me before being released into the Annaran’s who had come here with the promise of freedom Rael had given them.
I drove the point of my staff deeply into the ground at my feet as I began the first incantation. The first spell. The one that would slay the dead. The voice of conscience that would have risen in my elven self was silent. There was no remorse this time. Cold purpose drove the casting of the first book’s spells, and there was no doubt, no reluctance, no reservation as the words sang out across the ether to settle into the masses below.
Daemonbane whispered to me from the place it occupied against my back. Coaxing, luring, hoping, it’s voice joined with me as the first book’s spells began to take effect. But I could not watch, there was too much yet to do, and concentration was everything as the power flowed from the ley lines of the island into the staff and was shaped and formed by me before being released into the Annaran’s who had come here with the promise of freedom Rael had given them.
Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe
-
Alais d Nitesong
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 861
- Joined: Sat May 15, 2004 11:52 am
- Location: Matlal, Riverbend, I' Taurn or Nitesong, depending on time of year
- Contact:
The Annarans began to feel the effects of the first book. Some fell where they stood in the ranks of Malchor's army, others staggered away, trying to escape the inescapable. They were doomed, once more to suffer the fate of Morrin's spells. Once more to be ripped from their place in the world of the living, to be cast back into the Hells, and hopefully this time to remain there for all eternity.
It took several hours for all of the Annarans to die, and yet Malchor remained at the lead. Unfortunately, the sorceress did not know that the spell intended to send him into hell had not affected him as it had the rest of the contingent.
She began the second book, knowing, feeling Saltera's timing with her own. But there was something new. A warmth spread through her as though a part of her sensed a familiar loved one. The sensation started at her brow, and warmed even her heart. Something that had been cool for a very long, long time. The power flowing through the staff grew in intensity as she prepared to execute the second book. The destruction of the animals, insects, the water, the land that the Annarans had brought with them, or had corrupted and turned. It all had to go. Every molecule of it.
She spared a glance across the valley toward where Saltera stood, and the image there had changed, Saltera was all in black. Black robe snapped in the wind at the edge of the bluff. She blinked, nearly faltering, but resolved it was memory playing tricks upon her sight.
As afternoon progressed, the results of the second book became evident throughout the valley.
It took several hours for all of the Annarans to die, and yet Malchor remained at the lead. Unfortunately, the sorceress did not know that the spell intended to send him into hell had not affected him as it had the rest of the contingent.
She began the second book, knowing, feeling Saltera's timing with her own. But there was something new. A warmth spread through her as though a part of her sensed a familiar loved one. The sensation started at her brow, and warmed even her heart. Something that had been cool for a very long, long time. The power flowing through the staff grew in intensity as she prepared to execute the second book. The destruction of the animals, insects, the water, the land that the Annarans had brought with them, or had corrupted and turned. It all had to go. Every molecule of it.
She spared a glance across the valley toward where Saltera stood, and the image there had changed, Saltera was all in black. Black robe snapped in the wind at the edge of the bluff. She blinked, nearly faltering, but resolved it was memory playing tricks upon her sight.
As afternoon progressed, the results of the second book became evident throughout the valley.
Lady Alais d' Arma Graham d' Nitesong Sidhe
Jake and Giles watched as the advancing army began to falter. It looked like the spells were beginning to work. Jacob scanned the forces and almost fell out of the sky when he saw Malchor's chariot out front of the formation. Tobias was tied down to the front of the chariot with large bone spikes impaling his shoulders. "GILES!" Jacob screamed over the rushing wind, "WE HAVE A PROBLEM." He pointed down towards Malchor.
Giles roared, attracting the attention of several of the low flying demons.
"Don't worry old boy, I've got a plan." Jacob said with a crazy laugh. Giles shot Jacob a look that was so filled with disbelief that it was almost comical. "Come on, I always have great plans. Besides the jello incident was not my fault! Who knew that dread wolves wouldn't like cherry, and besides they were out of the orange flavor. Oh, you might want to watch out." Jacob dropped like a stone towards Malchor as Giles twisted out of the way of an onconing fireball. The demons had come up to meet them.
Giles lashed out with his claws crumpling one of the nearest demons wings and his breath engulfed a second one. He hoped this plan was better than...well every other plan the lizardman had ever come up with. Somehow he had his doubts though.
Giles roared, attracting the attention of several of the low flying demons.
"Don't worry old boy, I've got a plan." Jacob said with a crazy laugh. Giles shot Jacob a look that was so filled with disbelief that it was almost comical. "Come on, I always have great plans. Besides the jello incident was not my fault! Who knew that dread wolves wouldn't like cherry, and besides they were out of the orange flavor. Oh, you might want to watch out." Jacob dropped like a stone towards Malchor as Giles twisted out of the way of an onconing fireball. The demons had come up to meet them.
Giles lashed out with his claws crumpling one of the nearest demons wings and his breath engulfed a second one. He hoped this plan was better than...well every other plan the lizardman had ever come up with. Somehow he had his doubts though.
Out of the Abyss and Back Again
Riverbend. I had not seen my old home in too many years to recall. But now it has an empty and neglected feeling to it. The broad loop of the river rolls past and through the curtain walls, Glum's forge still stands, but is empty. No dwarven muttering is coming from the heat of his forge. No ringing of his heavy hammers upon fine dwarven steel as he fashions some weapon of exceptional form and function. I miss the old dwarf. I hope he found his place in his Hall beneath the mountains. The only thing that kept him so long at the surface had been his friendship to me. A friendship I never deserved.
Martia's shop was beside the smithy. It too was empty. The smell of herbs and possets had always seemed inviting. She had a gift for brightening even my days. Today if I close my eyes and stand very still, I can still detect the faintest aroma of cloves and orange if I stand in front of the doorway. She too has gone, lured away from here and back into a world no longer meant for her.
Each building I pass brings back memories of people I have known. Some I liked. Some I had not liked, but all were my people. I am the annointed King of Annara. Undisputed ruler of a people who had become so corrupted and vile as to require their eternal damnation away from the rest of humanity.
The stable beckoned, even though I know Hadrian will not be there. The great horse carried me through wars, skirmishes, and adventures across the realm and into lands most will never see with their own eyes. Lands full of dreams, and horrors too unimaginable to describe. The scent of the building still holds that faint aroma of horses and leather, even after so many years. His saddle sits now upon the saddle rack, and the bridle hangs beside his stall as if awaiting his return from the pastures beyond the walls.
I felt it the moment she put the medallion around her neck. The moonsilver chain warmed instantly, with a corresponding warmth radiating from my own obverse version and mate to the one she'd donned at last. My black sigil was held within the moonsilver disk, cradled as a lover might hold his woman, and as she slipped the medallion around her neck, she completed a connection she had no idea I'd created.
My medallion was the obverse. It was her sigil in moonsilver cradled within the ebony tanzanite. Both had held a thread of both of us, and bound us together, each to the mate, which her faithful machine had delivered to her. I could not help but lightly trace the elegant elven sigil with my fingers as warmth radiates from it. A warmth I never thought to feel again: a connection to a living being. But that connection has come at an unacceptable price, and while I relish this gift, I must end it for eternity.
A sound behind me had me reaching for Daemonbane as a reflex. A velvet soft muzzle stretched over the stall where moments before there had been nothing but emptiness. Great brown eyes stared back at me as the black warhorse flicked his ears forward in expectation. I reached for the soft muzzle as a man caught in a dream. "Hadrian."
It was time. Alais wore the medallion, our connection was completed, and now, once more, I would ride Hadrian into battle. In minutes we were walking toward the rift that would lead us to the battleground. Once more I would see my student work magic that no elf should work. I still remember her tears as I faded from her sight. I will bring this special elf to tears once more; I still feel the pain that day caused her as though it were yesterday. I told her then I was no proper teacher. I will put her through that ordeal a second time with no more remorse than I had the first time. I am no better than the people I rule.
Hadrian bounded through the rift at the light touch of my heel into the biting, bitter cold of the mountain top, and it took my breath away to protect us both from the cold that living things would never survive. But Hadrian and I are not living, and not dead. We are in between, and by the end of this day, would be locked once more in that nothingness to anchor my people once again into the hells.
From the base of the mountain I could see the island where Alais was facing the Annaran and demon hordes. Hadrian's hooves race across the water surface toward what had once been a green gem set in the azure seas, but was now a smoldering, blackened ruin. Iron shod hooves ripped into the black sand and dug great gouts into the ground as Hadrian climbed the slope toward where I could feel Alais to be. I was whole once again. As whole as I could ever be given my fate and the realm that is mine to rule. I will miss this feeling, but the reminder will help me in the ages ahead.
The valley stretched before me, filled with every abomination imaginable. The numbers were staggering, but they were well condensed for this event. Alais and her allies had done a good job luring them into one area for the task at hand. Their plans for dealing with the others I do not know, and I can feel the strain on my student. She believes she will not be here to help her friends. Now, she is completing the second book. Annarans were dropping in the field. Their blood soaking into the ground where they fall. She is not sparing them. None of them are having an easy death. None of them are dying quickly nor painlessly. She is angry.
I reached a high ridge, seeking the one she had for an anchor, for she cannot accomplish this alone. She's grown in power and commands my sorceries with a skill unmatched by 99% of Annaran sorcerers of history, but even so, this is not something even I could do alone. The power demanded for casting these spells cannot be shaped by one alone; not even I could do that.
I found her anchor atop the opposite ridge. It was there I would go, to replace her anchor, and in the end, wrest the leadership from her. From there I can take control of the casting, and deny her the thing she has resigned herself to doing. I will not allow her to take my place in between. Elves cannot spend eternity in such a place. My friend cannot spend eternity in that place. I would not permit such an abomination, no matter what else I have brought upon her.
In minutes I reached the ridge where her anchor stood, in rapt casting. He'd learned the spells well, this demon Alais has for an ally. War makes strange bedfellows indeed.
Across the valley, I can see a great silver dragon standing beside my student. It is her protection against the others of this invading army. Her sorceries are not divided between protecting herself and sending my people back where they belong. Her focus must be absolute, and as I felt the magic in the air, I know it is complete and well focused.
As the last spell of the Second flowed from the demon's mouth, I cast a hold spell intended to stop him from continuing, and I took my place beside the creature. "You will not complete the third casting demon, it is my place to finish this. Those are my people. Alais is my anchor. Go, join your friends."
I gave the demon a last look, though I doubt he will know the depths of my appreciation to him for standing with Alais. What she asked of him was everything. I wonder if he knows that. I wonder if he comprehends what he'd agreed to give this woman.
Turning to look toward my student and only friend in this world, I began the first spell of the Third. The song thrummed in my veins. I could feel even though I could not hear Alais in the ether. Our spell blended, combined, grew in power as I added my power to hers once more. The very air around me crackled with power. These islands were made by magic, and I can feel the responding chord from the land itself. As the last words were spoken, I took away from Alais the leadership of the casting. I took the onus of the casting for myself, and in that instant, I felt her shock of realization.
The wind lifted my cloak as Hadrian's mane and tail flowed with the zephyrs rising from the valley. Memories flashed before my eyes, and overlaid what we were doing now. The sun was nearly in the same place in the sky when it happened… and I looked one last time across the valley toward the woman who had once been my student… but is now a power to be reckoned with in her own right. A woman of strength with a destiny of her own, and the knowledge of a world no one will comprehend.
The land where the Annarans had fallen vanished. It took with it the land, the blood, the bodies. The essence of everything Annaran vanished from the field of battle, leaving mayhem in the ranks of the invaders as over a third of their numbers faded from existence in this world. The tear between Riverbend and that mountain sealed, and as I watched the far ridge, Daemonbane formed once again in my hands.
The world around me misted, as though a fog were rolling in from the sea. Closing my left hand around the medallion as Alais' world faded from my sight, I gave her a formal salute with Daemonbane as my farewell to her. We would not meet again.
Martia's shop was beside the smithy. It too was empty. The smell of herbs and possets had always seemed inviting. She had a gift for brightening even my days. Today if I close my eyes and stand very still, I can still detect the faintest aroma of cloves and orange if I stand in front of the doorway. She too has gone, lured away from here and back into a world no longer meant for her.
Each building I pass brings back memories of people I have known. Some I liked. Some I had not liked, but all were my people. I am the annointed King of Annara. Undisputed ruler of a people who had become so corrupted and vile as to require their eternal damnation away from the rest of humanity.
The stable beckoned, even though I know Hadrian will not be there. The great horse carried me through wars, skirmishes, and adventures across the realm and into lands most will never see with their own eyes. Lands full of dreams, and horrors too unimaginable to describe. The scent of the building still holds that faint aroma of horses and leather, even after so many years. His saddle sits now upon the saddle rack, and the bridle hangs beside his stall as if awaiting his return from the pastures beyond the walls.
I felt it the moment she put the medallion around her neck. The moonsilver chain warmed instantly, with a corresponding warmth radiating from my own obverse version and mate to the one she'd donned at last. My black sigil was held within the moonsilver disk, cradled as a lover might hold his woman, and as she slipped the medallion around her neck, she completed a connection she had no idea I'd created.
My medallion was the obverse. It was her sigil in moonsilver cradled within the ebony tanzanite. Both had held a thread of both of us, and bound us together, each to the mate, which her faithful machine had delivered to her. I could not help but lightly trace the elegant elven sigil with my fingers as warmth radiates from it. A warmth I never thought to feel again: a connection to a living being. But that connection has come at an unacceptable price, and while I relish this gift, I must end it for eternity.
A sound behind me had me reaching for Daemonbane as a reflex. A velvet soft muzzle stretched over the stall where moments before there had been nothing but emptiness. Great brown eyes stared back at me as the black warhorse flicked his ears forward in expectation. I reached for the soft muzzle as a man caught in a dream. "Hadrian."
It was time. Alais wore the medallion, our connection was completed, and now, once more, I would ride Hadrian into battle. In minutes we were walking toward the rift that would lead us to the battleground. Once more I would see my student work magic that no elf should work. I still remember her tears as I faded from her sight. I will bring this special elf to tears once more; I still feel the pain that day caused her as though it were yesterday. I told her then I was no proper teacher. I will put her through that ordeal a second time with no more remorse than I had the first time. I am no better than the people I rule.
Hadrian bounded through the rift at the light touch of my heel into the biting, bitter cold of the mountain top, and it took my breath away to protect us both from the cold that living things would never survive. But Hadrian and I are not living, and not dead. We are in between, and by the end of this day, would be locked once more in that nothingness to anchor my people once again into the hells.
From the base of the mountain I could see the island where Alais was facing the Annaran and demon hordes. Hadrian's hooves race across the water surface toward what had once been a green gem set in the azure seas, but was now a smoldering, blackened ruin. Iron shod hooves ripped into the black sand and dug great gouts into the ground as Hadrian climbed the slope toward where I could feel Alais to be. I was whole once again. As whole as I could ever be given my fate and the realm that is mine to rule. I will miss this feeling, but the reminder will help me in the ages ahead.
The valley stretched before me, filled with every abomination imaginable. The numbers were staggering, but they were well condensed for this event. Alais and her allies had done a good job luring them into one area for the task at hand. Their plans for dealing with the others I do not know, and I can feel the strain on my student. She believes she will not be here to help her friends. Now, she is completing the second book. Annarans were dropping in the field. Their blood soaking into the ground where they fall. She is not sparing them. None of them are having an easy death. None of them are dying quickly nor painlessly. She is angry.
I reached a high ridge, seeking the one she had for an anchor, for she cannot accomplish this alone. She's grown in power and commands my sorceries with a skill unmatched by 99% of Annaran sorcerers of history, but even so, this is not something even I could do alone. The power demanded for casting these spells cannot be shaped by one alone; not even I could do that.
I found her anchor atop the opposite ridge. It was there I would go, to replace her anchor, and in the end, wrest the leadership from her. From there I can take control of the casting, and deny her the thing she has resigned herself to doing. I will not allow her to take my place in between. Elves cannot spend eternity in such a place. My friend cannot spend eternity in that place. I would not permit such an abomination, no matter what else I have brought upon her.
In minutes I reached the ridge where her anchor stood, in rapt casting. He'd learned the spells well, this demon Alais has for an ally. War makes strange bedfellows indeed.
Across the valley, I can see a great silver dragon standing beside my student. It is her protection against the others of this invading army. Her sorceries are not divided between protecting herself and sending my people back where they belong. Her focus must be absolute, and as I felt the magic in the air, I know it is complete and well focused.
As the last spell of the Second flowed from the demon's mouth, I cast a hold spell intended to stop him from continuing, and I took my place beside the creature. "You will not complete the third casting demon, it is my place to finish this. Those are my people. Alais is my anchor. Go, join your friends."
I gave the demon a last look, though I doubt he will know the depths of my appreciation to him for standing with Alais. What she asked of him was everything. I wonder if he knows that. I wonder if he comprehends what he'd agreed to give this woman.
Turning to look toward my student and only friend in this world, I began the first spell of the Third. The song thrummed in my veins. I could feel even though I could not hear Alais in the ether. Our spell blended, combined, grew in power as I added my power to hers once more. The very air around me crackled with power. These islands were made by magic, and I can feel the responding chord from the land itself. As the last words were spoken, I took away from Alais the leadership of the casting. I took the onus of the casting for myself, and in that instant, I felt her shock of realization.
The wind lifted my cloak as Hadrian's mane and tail flowed with the zephyrs rising from the valley. Memories flashed before my eyes, and overlaid what we were doing now. The sun was nearly in the same place in the sky when it happened… and I looked one last time across the valley toward the woman who had once been my student… but is now a power to be reckoned with in her own right. A woman of strength with a destiny of her own, and the knowledge of a world no one will comprehend.
The land where the Annarans had fallen vanished. It took with it the land, the blood, the bodies. The essence of everything Annaran vanished from the field of battle, leaving mayhem in the ranks of the invaders as over a third of their numbers faded from existence in this world. The tear between Riverbend and that mountain sealed, and as I watched the far ridge, Daemonbane formed once again in my hands.
The world around me misted, as though a fog were rolling in from the sea. Closing my left hand around the medallion as Alais' world faded from my sight, I gave her a formal salute with Daemonbane as my farewell to her. We would not meet again.
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Tasslehofl Momus
- Expert Adventurer
- Posts: 729
- Joined: Thu Apr 01, 2004 2:33 pm
- Location: Momus Estates
He felt the shift in the winds as the man stepped through the tear. He knew the time was fast approaching, but the unfamiliar feel of the man’s presence screamed that the time had already come and began.
He shook his head, clearing it from the feeling of time lost. He had spent too long lost within the sights of the ether. He had found his daughter, and had sheltered her signature more than it already was. She was safe.. for now.
He turned his attention once more to Sai Jon. “Tobias has been located.” He had felt the cry as it ripped through the winds from the lizard. He knew that the Guardian would know this as well. “We have another issue to face, if there were not enough to deal with already. To this question I give you…” His voice trailed off as he watched his brother. He knew the answer already. “Go to Tobias, brother. Face the one who took him. I shall return Saltera to you. One has returned who should not be, and he will take with him the hoards of the Annarans.”
He stood, and his body both grew and shrunk. He took on his true form, a form he did not often take. The silver scales crawled through his skin, and the great golden wings speared from his back.
He turned his gaze to his brother, his Younger. It was good to have Blood around again, though it was still not his opposite. “Come, brother. Let us safe our friends and family, and destroy our enemies.”
He shook his head, clearing it from the feeling of time lost. He had spent too long lost within the sights of the ether. He had found his daughter, and had sheltered her signature more than it already was. She was safe.. for now.
He turned his attention once more to Sai Jon. “Tobias has been located.” He had felt the cry as it ripped through the winds from the lizard. He knew that the Guardian would know this as well. “We have another issue to face, if there were not enough to deal with already. To this question I give you…” His voice trailed off as he watched his brother. He knew the answer already. “Go to Tobias, brother. Face the one who took him. I shall return Saltera to you. One has returned who should not be, and he will take with him the hoards of the Annarans.”
He stood, and his body both grew and shrunk. He took on his true form, a form he did not often take. The silver scales crawled through his skin, and the great golden wings speared from his back.
He turned his gaze to his brother, his Younger. It was good to have Blood around again, though it was still not his opposite. “Come, brother. Let us safe our friends and family, and destroy our enemies.”
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