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Shadowdance
This is the official storyline for the Blood Tria Syndicate. Our characters form the membership of a criminal organization. This is a roleplay focused guild, and as such, will continuously and consistently create roleplay in-game. Feel free to post your experiences with members of the Syndicate as you please. But remember, such posts should be from your character's perspective.
Blood Tria Syndicate
http://www.hydlaaplaza.com/smf/index.php?topic=41432.0 (http://www.hydlaaplaza.com/smf/index.php?topic=41432.0)
Nightmares And Aspirations
As Kull drifted into sleep, a familiar dream crept into his consciousness...
An Akkaio youth, sinewy in his prime, lay slain on the ground. Blood pooled around the corpse. The next instant Kull awoke in the Death Realm. Eyes widening in surprise; he grasped at his wound, but only a scar remained. Normally soft and combed fur was disheveled. Torn to pieces, the leather armor he had worn for so long was now scrap. An old tower stood behind him, crumbling from abandonment. Beyond all of this lay a darkness so black he felt swallowed whole. Kull experienced terror, a familiar feeling in one hunted for so long; with this came a strange comfort. Staring into the black, he brooded. Hubris caused the battle , mistakes ended it, and sins accompanied its aftermath.
Walking onward to a narrow stone bridge, its breadth spanning a city block; he resolved to not look down. Halfway across, Kull gave in to the temptation. He saw nothingness, and terror nearly overcame him. The Enkidukai gulped, and looked up again. Finally crossing the bridge, he came upon a staircase so tall and winding it strained even his sharp eyes. Licking his parched lips, the menki carried on. What seemed to be hours later, Kull reached the top of the staircase. He gasped at a terrifying and majestic sight: miles beyond, an imposing and massive stone citadel protruded forth from the darkness. Lights spread across its form. They seemed to invite the young Akkaio. He quickened his pace, desperate to reach safe haven...
Kull awoke, sweating all over, to the sounds of a city about its business. Merchants and buyers haggled over prices and wares. Crowds gossiped over the latest news. Children let loose happy cries. Taking a moment to catch himself, Kull stood groggily. The dream had come every night. A reminder, then. To keep the Oath.
He cleaned up, dressed, ate and went out into the busy streets from his modest home. He strode toward his destination, giving thought to recent events. Since his return to Hydlaa some months ago, Kull had become busy. From old contacts, other criminals were contracted to form a Syndicate. With hard work, he managed to acquire associates, soldiers and a right-hand man known as the 'Scribe'. Even an insane mercenary who earned the nickname 'Berserker' had joined up.
Moon Silver was monopolized in Hydlaa. A deal was struck with its brewer; the Clamod many knew as 'Silversmith'. The drug was a strong alcoholic and magical drink. Highly addictive and energizing, it even magnified the power of spells. Robberies increased in number and profits flowed into Syndicate coffers. Kull payed his soldiers and underboss well. Still, the Oath gnawed at him.
He had come to love wealth. Sacrificing these pleasures for the Dark Lady was obligatory, but it was difficult to take the righteous path; a narrow one by definition. The blurrier the lines, the more fun to be had.
After visiting a soldier and giving him more Moon Silver to sell, Kull laid plans to make a deal with the owner of the Poisoned Blood tavern. It was a haunt in the Banished Camp, a haven for rogues of all kinds. Still, they followed the rules laid down by Guile. It was her way or the highway. Kull had access to the Camp, but not to the tavern. It would be another source of contacts and contracts. He sought that advantage as it would surely bring him greater wealth.
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A Bloody Rage
Fresh from a partially successful deal with the Snitch and her allies at Camp Banished, Kull made his way to the Stonehead tavern. In the fast approaching night, the place was empty except for Stashka and Roled, who shared conversation and tea. To his pleasure, the latter Dermorian was injured with two freshly broken legs. Stashka, however, had become an annoyance as of late. Perhaps even a problem. His presence at the Banished meeting halted talks. Bearing this in mind, Kull leaned on a nearby pillar to listen cautiously. It became clear the two were former lovers, and Roled was in trouble. He noted both points for later opportunities.
Kull walked to the bar, with Hemmel coming later on, for drinks. He knew Roled was a threat, and always had been. The fool's word carried weight, and therefore discrediting him was a priority.
Friends of Roled, including the physician Evirea, came to drink and sympathize with the injured Dermorian. Pressing his position, Kull sympathized but also accused Roled of an addiction to Moon Silver. He argued back and forth with Roled, continuing to speak lies, while others listened. They did not believe him, that much was clear. Nevertheless, Kull knew that to state something enough would have an effect. People were weak, and eventually could believe even the most obvious of untruths. In this way he had come to be a cynic.
Out of nowhere Stashka burst into the tavern, having left before in a bad mood. The fool went on to claim Kull lied; that Stashka had put Moon Silver in Roled's tea. He revealed Kull's criminal identity. Then, Stashka stormed out, with Sarras in tow.
Enraged, Kull followed the pair with Hemmel at his side. Stashka must die, he thought. He had no idea why a well-paid mercenary would act so irrationally. However, the situation called for a swift and brutal response. No one in the Syndicate could compromise their activities, and everyone else had to know threats would be dealt with severely.
They came upon Stashka and Sarras on one of Gugrontid's overlooks. Scribe took up post on a parallel precipice, while Kull watched from the side of a nearby building. All of a sudden Sarras lashed out and hit her friend. In her anger, she reduced his defenses. Opportunity had struck, and seizing the moment, Hemmel attacked with a bolt of Dark Way energy. Kull drew his daggers and rushed forward. He exclaimed, "You have betrayed the Syndicate. Now you will die Stashka."
(http://s10.postimg.org/fxjlf93rd/shot48.jpg)
Stashka pushed Sarras away and yelled, "Get away, now!" But it was too late. Kull let loose a barrage of dagger strikes all over the Dermorian's face, neck, arms and torso. Flesh was sliced off and blood ran freely. Hemmel knocked the woman back with another spell, giving her no time to react. Once again Stashka acted strangely when he embraced Kull, almost lovingly, despite the hate. Letting loose a cry of rage and disgust, Kull slashed a final time; and Stashka fell dead, before his attacker kicked the body over with a gleeful cry. The body disappeared into the Realm of Death as it tumbled through the air, past the precipices and levels of the Kran city.
Kull was overcome with bloodlust, and turned around to hack at Sarras. His face contorted; his yellow, slitted eyes roving about to find her. Once he locked on, the Akkaio attacked. He slashed and stabbed, only to meet a poor defense of arms upraised. Still, she could not stand for long. Yet again, one of his men acted strangely. Out of nowhere Hemmel shouted at the top of his lungs, "Enough!" and captured Kull in a bubble of Dark Way magic. Sarras tried to get away, hampered by her wounds. Nevertheless, Hemmel was yet to achieve expertise in the Way, and Kull had long developed some modest measure of magical resistance. He eventually wore the bubble down, and burst forth to reach Sarras as she nearly came to a main street. He put his left paw over her mouth and drove a dagger deep into her back. She died quickly and slumped in his arms. Quietly, Kull dragged the corpse behind a nearby building. After a few moments it disappeared like Stashka's.
Kull wheeled around to find Hemmel; the Ynwwn had to pay for his treachery. However, the underboss was nowhere to be seen. After disposing of some bloody leathers, and wiping clean his daggers, Kull searched nearby streets and bridges. He came upon the body of Hemmel, who had clearly tumbled over the side from the aftereffect of such magic. Scribe was unconscious and a broken, huddled mess. The bloodlust had dissapeared, and Kull no longer desired vengeance. He felt loyalty to Scribe, no matter what the Ynwwn had done. Purely by an act of good fortune, Evirea came along and treated Hemmel. After some time, the Ynwwn stabilized, much to Kull's relief.
Sitting inside the tavern, Kull recited a poem he had written, long ago. Perhaps he said it to offer comfort. Perhaps he said it to justify his actions; whether Hemmel understood was another matter.
On blood-stained ground, the Deathly Queen
the Lady Dakkru, taker of life, cries fiery
with foul tongue. "Give me your wicked, incarnate hate
Your armed wayward of hearts dreary
The exiled demons forever banished from happy fate
Send them forth, the unsung seekers, fire-bathed to me,
I raise my sword aside Death's Black Gate!"
Deep into the night, Kull departed, his thoughts occupied by recent events. Most of all, he was concerned with the bloodlust. He knew it blurred judgment and could do irrevocable damage to his mission.
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[oooo! A statue of the Bloodlust Libertine Kull! great story! RR]
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Return To A Dark Chapter
Part One
Since his return to Hydlaa several months ago, Kull searched for Sarren: a Dermorian of seventeen cycles with a bright face and a merry attitude. Within a week, he found the young man among the friends of Roled. Kull spied on Sarren, and sent soldiers to gather more information. It was confirmed: Sarren was well and living in Hydlaa. He seemed normal, nothing like Sarren of the past. For all this good news, Kull knew Roled posed a problem. The friendship was poison to Kull's plans. Therefore, the Akkaio resolved to remove Roled from the situation.
One night, after a heated confrontation between the two, Kull followed a drunken Roled through the Arena tunnel. He cut the mage with a poisoned blade. Roled soon fell into a deep sleep, much to the worry of his friends. Despite a miscalculation, the plan seemed to be going well. But then Roled's allies harried Kull's soldiers and connections across the level. Sarren was constantly surrounded and protected. Kull was only able to keep his own identity separate from their investigations. He was still unable to achieve to capture Sarren.
Part Two
Kull resolved again to achieve his goals, no matter any mishap. Weeks passed without an opportunity. However, Kull was not idle in the meantime. He made moves to improve his reputation among Roled's friends and destroy the Dermorian's own credibility. Then, fortune struck. He heard Sarren was in Hydlaa, and found the young man talking to Roled beside the city bank. Ironically, Roled played into Kull's hands when he attempted to secure himself against the Akkaio. He sent Sarren to draw Kull away, unaware of the Akkaio's true goals. Soon Roled would know vengeance, but not by the means he may have expected.
Sarren confronted Kull, and made threats in defense of Roled. Playing into their familial relationship, Kull told Sarren he could only protect Roled by striking a deal. Then, Kull led Sarren to the sewers behind Kada-el's. As Sarren moved up a ladder, the Akkaio pushed with all his might. Sarren fell down to the stony ground below. Seizing the moment, Kull leaped below. Sarren struck out blindly with a dagger in his right hand. Dodging to the left, the Akkaio missed the attack. He rushed forward, grasped Sarren's right arm to keep it away, and attempted to smash the Dermorian's head against the ground.
(http://s18.postimg.org/gzlov7rft/shot86.jpg)
Sarren's eventually stopped lashing out with his left leg. The usually merry light in his eyes started to drain away. His motions were more instinctual. He said desperately, "If you kill me, say I tripped and fell!"
Kull's mouth turned a wry smile. He continued to force Sarren's arm away with his right paw. In a low growl he said, "I have greater plans for you than your own death." As the Akkaio smashed Sarren's head into the cold stone, Kull yelled "You will be my death-dealer!"
Sarren turned pale and started writhing as Kull smashed his head against the ground. His hair matted with the crimson wet of blood, Sarren yelled out, "Nooooo!". He attempted to kick the Menki in the groin.
Kull grunted when Sarren kicked him in the groin. The blow was hampered by chain mail under his dark leathers, however, that extended from his chest. Kull continued to try and bash Sarren's head into the ground. He yelled, "Succumb, Sarren! You will comply!"
In an instant, Sarren's face became expressionless, his body motionless; except, the Dermorian twirled a dagger in his right hand. His voice became almost robotic.
After an exchange of information, Kull felt elated. His plans were now in motion. The hour would soon be his.
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The Faithful
Years ago...
(http://s12.postimg.org/edf871ikt/shot82.jpg)
Kull descended into the chamber, its halls combed with torches. They were lit with reddish flames. A lone Ylian, garbed in dark gray furs, passed by. Their eyes connected, and Kull inclined his head to the Fortress dweller. The man nodded in response. Further down the path of cobblestone, elongated shadows mixed in movement. The Akkaio swallowed in apprehension. Master tells me I have been here among the faithful for several living months now. How much I've changed...
As he rounded the corner, he came upon a large stone door at the far end of a well-lit room. To the left of it sat a wizened Diaboli in a simple purple robe behind a well-furnished desk. The old being scribbled and passed papers occasionally to a lanky Ynwwn assistant. As Kull made his way to the end, the Diaboli handed a final signed sheet to the assistant. The Ynwwn dashed off, glancing to Kull with a faint smile.
The Akkaio came up to the desk. He waited for several minutes without a response from the ancient Diaboli. Finally, the old man looked up and said, softly, "Kull Rhundin. Initiate of the Order."
Kull cleared his throat. "Yes, Master."
The Diaboli continued to write, this time in a ledger. After apparently finishing, the Diaboli issued a small laugh. "I am not your Master, child. You will address me as Keeper." With a bit of resentment in his voice, and humor, he went on to say, "It appears the Council would have me keeping the ledgers and books for the rest of my days." He folded his arms. "No longer capable of missions, physically that is."
"I am sorry to hear that, Keeper."
"Indeed." The Keeper waved to the door, a flicker of light appearing in his hand for a moment. It opened slowly, but without a sound.
"You may enter."
Kull fidgeted, tense and excited. "Do you...do you have any advice?"
The Diaboli looked up. He was silent for a moment. "We live to serve, Initiate. Whether to retirement or a violent end we go, it is our purpose to materialize Her wishes. Fear not, you will be put to your best use."
Kull nodded. "Thank you, Keeper." He walked through the door, as it slowly closed behind him without a sound.
An hour later, Kull walked outside. His step was confident, his heart full. He gazed down to the Keeper, who looked up at him. They traded stares for a moment. It was as if Kull intimately understood the Keeper's words. The Keeper inclined his head to Kull and said, "Well done."
He walked on through the corridors, pondering his situation. I am no longer an Initiate. Truly, I belong here. They see my talents. How could they not? I will serve with distinction. He felt elated at his success. The Akkaio was not the most powerful with magic or blades, or the most intelligent. This was true. However, Kull had cunning. From his days in the Pack as a hunter, to the narrow alleys of Ojaveda where daggers found a home, Kull could achieve from the shadows.
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Raxuss's Journal: Day 21
Today was actually productive.
Hiding from the Rolark mage proved to be rather easy; apparently the last time we met freaked them out for some reason. According to Kull, they left the city entirely. Where, I have no idea. And I honestly don't care. I'm safe from the man and I'm good with it. I can continue with my plans.
Which, interestingly enough, seem to be within reach. I made a gamble today that left my chest stabbed and my throat sore, but it was a gamble that will pay off well.
Sarren harbors spirits capable of the kind of destruction I need. I had met Her Highness (as I call her) and Kaber. Both are quite the characters, but the third I met today is the most interesting. The Executioner, he calls himself. A thousand year old beserker, shoved in the body of Sarren along with Kaber and Her Highness. He has the bloodlust to do what needs to be done and the control to keep himself in check. He will be pivotal in future.
I also got confirmation while listening in to Kull and Sarren's chat; Sarren is unaware of the spirits in him. This further confirms my suspicions that he is simply a walking prison. Kull has no freaking idea what he's doing. And if he does, I don't see any kind of motive for what he's doing.
But Kull changed the game again. Now he wants me to stick to that really loose story about the blood-ties between Sarren and I. Certainly a good way to keep regular contact with Sarren, it'll severely hamper my efforts to communicate with the spirits inside of him. If I get in good with Sarren, I'll have to be around his allies.
That includes Roled Rolark. There is no way in death that I'm going to be able to speak to Sarren in private with any of them around and that effectively cuts me off from the spirits I need to talk to. I need to put this 'half-brother' thing on hold or just completely trash the story. But I can't do that openly; Kull will get suspicious. And the last thing I need is for Kull to get suspicious. I earned the trust of his second, and Hemmel is a very kind Ynnwn who deserves better honestly (Note: Dark Mage, deserves better than Kull, but not much more than that), but he's smart, too. If I don't tread lightly, bad things will occur I'm sure.
So, To-Do List:
I need another meeting with Sarren. The sooner, the better. In the meantime, I'll be researching this old 'Order' and earn myself some more tria. I still need to earn access to that blasted Winch. And I need to complete my tasks and head back to the Bronze Eagle Fortress. Which is the longest walk since the evacuation I've had to deal with. Practice Red Way on the local wildlife as I go.
Until next I write,
R. Isturu
23rd Day since Evacuation
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Aleeane clutched several vials and bottles in her arms, most of them empty. The cave was cold, incredibly cold - how could Ceitile stand wearing such skimpy clothing in here? The girl trembled and dropped the glass containers, leaning over the bucket beside her as she felt another wave of nausea.
"What was this stuff called, anyway?" the other Ynnwn asked, picking up one of the bottles. Technically an ink bottle, though Aleeane had pulled every last drop of the pitch-black liquid out with magic when she'd flung it at Kull's face. Her cider, with the drug slipped into it, had replaced the container's intended contents.
"Moon Silver."
"Figures it'd have something to do with silver. What the [expletive] is a moon though?"
"Doesn't matter. Give it here."
"No. Drink your lacka."
"It doesn't help much. It's the magic I need. Hand it over."
"It took one sip to get you drunk. You're gonna kill yourself with this stuff."
Aleeane lunged at Ceitile, immediately shoved back with a scarred, muscular arm, the other holding her prize just out of reach. She jerked her knee up, the unexpected blow to the stomach causing the brute to drop the tainted cider. The younger Ynnwn rolled out of the way and grabbed the bottle as Ceitile lost her balance. She scrambled up and grabbed her enchanted necklace, running out of the cave.
She pulled the stopper and spat it out while running, stopping only to take a swig. She looked like Alearche again for a split second - and then there was a loud crack. At the same moment, the emerald and bottle both shattered. She was confused at the warmth she felt despite the thick snow blowing around her. Ceitile took Aleeane by the elbow and led her back to the cave, the blizzard following the pair inside.
"The Moon Silver..."
"Let it go. You said you don't want to be an addict when you told me about what happened. Did that klyros give you any more of that...whatever it was? For clearing your head?"
Aleeane didn't answer. She wanted her books. Fumbling clumsily through the snowbanks for them, she opened one to a random page and found a diagram. Barely thinking about it, she pulled the water from her surroundings to make ice, sculpting it magically into a humanoid shape. She flipped through the book, giving her little model organs, veins, bones, a pregnant belly with a fetus, just about ready to pop. It would melt before she was sober, but she didn't care. Ignoring her work of art, she moved on, finding more ink, clumsily filling blank pages, scrolls, the backs of her hands with her drunken ideas. For the ones she signed, she used her male psuedonym.
It was late in the afternoon when Aleeane woke up, skin crawling, head pounding, feeling like all the spit had been burned from her mouth and throat. There were chunks of ice everywhere. Without questioning this, she sucked on one while she looked around the cave. Ceitile's brows were furrowed in concentration, an unnatural breeze whipping through their home. The books were warped like they'd been dropped in a bathtub.
"What happened?"
"Drink your lacka."
"Where's the lacka?"
"The blue stuff next to you. I mixed it with mana potion."
Aleeane weakly took a swig. It tasted awful, but she could feel the drink working. It was no substitute for Moon Silver, but after a little more, the headache started to subside at least. The breeze stopped and her mind was forcibly invaded.
"Hey!"
"Shh. Let me work."
After a few long, painful moments of letting Ceitile explore and try to fix things, she felt her friend's presence leave her mind.
"Not much I can do, unless you want to let me control your mind entirely. I can't risk messing with a magical drug I know nothing about while it's in you - gods know what'd happen."
"Not that I want to let you in my head again, but you'd do that for me?"
"Yeah, why not." Ceitile reached for her own bottle, turning to keep an eye on th cave's entrance.
"Aww, you do care!" Aleeane cooed teasingly.
"Shut up and drink your lacka."
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Honor Among Thieves
Beside a Fetid River of Evil
The realm of death was no place to find the light, of which the task of poisoning it had daunted him. How light could be twisted and knotted into something lethal and repulsive was beyond reason. It begged further explanation, or was it merely a symbol that he had yet to decipher?
As his head spun with confusion, he watched as tough looking menki trotted up the broad, stone steps. He watched as the man went around the corner, past Jefecra and the tavern itself. Not wanting to walk in front of the guards, he made a detour around an old weathered building, and peeked around the corner as the Akkaio headed to the sewer entrance around back.
-Who is that? And why is he going in there?
He crept behind, keeping a safe distance as the menki made his way along the sides of the tunnels – clearly mindful of the stream of filth and its floating turds. The stench of the vile place was so bad, it was a wonder that the glowing torches along the walls did not turn the underground maze into a fiery inferno.
| (http://i42.tinypic.com/280kweg.jpg) |
-I wonder what he's got in his sack. Tria, glyphs? I should check.
As the menki cleared the corner he began to extinguish the torches one by one. Slowly, the warm, orange licked stone walls had turned brown, then black. It was too dark to see. He stopped to listen, but heard nothing bet the scratching and splashing of rats as they played and skipped in the bowels of Hydlaa.
-Damn! Its a trap!
He slipped off his metal clad boots and placed them on the floor, then turned and dashed away as quickly as he could. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest, and the splashing of footsteps that grew closer with each exhausting pace. Feeling the slice and burning pain of a cruel dagger as it flew through the air and slit the inside of his arm he winceed and bit his tongue hard to stifle a yelp.
Clenching a Weakness glyph in one fist, and with sword drawn, he hid around a corner. With his three fingered hand balled around the handle of the sword and a trickle of blood drizzling down his arm, he waited, poised to strike as the menki arrived.
With first sight of fur, he swing violently! The clash of blades rang though the filthy halls like a choir of hammers on blade lined anvils, echoing and returning as small orange sparks leaped where they met. The Akkaios's yellow eyes shone in the dark like small mirrors, his muzzle was wrinkled with teeth and fangs drawn.
Rigwyn shouted at the top of his lungs as he charged closer, "WHO ARE YOU!?"
With his right paw upraised, dagger in hand, The menki said in a low growl, "Rigwyn Setson, we meet again. I had thought perhaps you were an assassin. Thus I wonder, why follow me, weapons drawn? Or has your behavior lost all reason or cause since Stashka freed you?"
"How do you know that?! You were not there that day... "
With that, they lowered their weapons with measured caution and slowly, the Diaboli began to realize who this man was. He had known things that only an insider would know, and indeed, his voice was in fact quite familiar. His mind flashed back to that day when Phanterol had visited him, offering a way out in exchange for an unspecified amount of tria – apparently much more than he was willing to pay up front.
Knowing now of this menki's works in Ojaveda and Hydlaa too, he was more open to discussion about exchanging tit for tat. Perhaps he could be of use, after all, he did arrange to Rigwyn to be liberated from prison – unlike Eleese who apparently failed to get him out.
- Empty promises, Hydlaa is full of them.
Beside a fetid river of evil, a deal was struck and sealed with the shake of criminal hands. The honor and word of one thief to another. Though not a legal contract by any means, and certainly not made by men who had qualms about morals and values, it had weight and was binding in a strange sort of way. While the civil man's laws are propelled with the threat of legally enforced fines and imprisonment, the laws of the underworld were fired with consequences far more sinister and dire.
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Raxuss's
Jouarnl Jowrnrarl Stuff: Day 22?
I'm never writing anything about a day being precuducta produceulldy good ever again. Because obviously the luck reversed as soon as I stated it was good. Only amount of good luck I've kept is that they overlooked in confisskating confun taking my journal and ink. I might be here a while, so I may as well write. It might be my last time, anyway. And if you can't tell, yes, I can't write well today. My head is screwed up, I don't know what they did. Chemicals or magic. Something. But let's start from the beginning:
The day started off fine. Wandered around the city, ran some errands, helped Liera with her alcheermid potion research. I met with fellow traveler Kayjee at the tavern. I met him earlier in month, but only briefly. Good to see a famillair face, regardless. We sat down and had a mug while we watched (Note: and I shamelessly made fun of) some poor, weird family of people who really should look into figuring out who keeps setting them up for failure. I mean, every time I see them they're dealing with a new problem! Life is a clacker, but it can't (real-is-tic-ally) realistically be that bad, could it?
OHOHOHO WAIT. Yes, it can. As I write here, I'm sitting in a jail cell, my mind hardly functioning properly. I'm also really mad, but I have enough self-control to keep it down. It feels like I've been mad a while. Or was mad recently or something. I don't know, my brain is frazzled. But there is a tale to be told of my capture. A short, pathetic one, but there's a part where I feel I did something cool for half a second, so I'll retell it. Kayjee and I were sitting in the tavern watching this family. Now this family, I did recognize a few. While I was running, which I'll touch in a second, I recognized Timil, Prtrea Prtea Beratta Anysu's friend, and Anysu. The three I completely lied to my first mission with Kull. I still owe Timil for that 100 tria he gave me as a welcoming gift. One of these days when he's not carrying a potentially apo...yeah, not even trying. I'm just going to shelf my vocublary for a while. And I'm pretty sure I spelt that wrong, too.
Anyway, when Timil doesn't have a sickness capable of wiping out races, then I'll buy him a cold one. Assuming I'm still around.
Back to the tale. We (Kayjee and I) were watching these fools when someone suddenly comes down the stairs. Can you guess who? The first thing to go wrong is the first thing I said went right the last time I wrote. That's right! Rolark comes waltzing down the stairs. I got my butt out of there! I said goodbye to Kayjee and bolted. I was convinced that he didn't see me. I breathed hard and was thinking of a hiding spot for the evening when I instinktitf gut-feeling-looked back to see if he was following to see the man heading right for me.
I freaked. Honest as death I freaked. I bolted, not knowing where to turn. Eventually I ran over toward Percival. Perciviel? The winch guard. He gave me a look, but I was too scared to care. This is the same man who almost killed me earlier with fire!
I ran past the guard and found myself in the dead end where the sewer's entrance was. I was a goner, I thought. But no! This is my only moment of triumph this night; I'm going to glorify the blazes out of it.
I hid right around the corner for the man. And, sure enough, Rolark runs right past me, into the sewers; he thought I went in! I sprinted as soon as he went in, straight for the pteranodon pteronadon flying lizard behind the temple. The exchange of tria took longer than I thought, but I made it! The ten minutes of flight was the most soothing I've ever had. It was beautiful; I outsmarted Rolark. I'm grinning now just thinking about it.
But, I'm in jail. Sadly, the story must go on. Talk about truth and it hurting.
I arrive in Ojadeva and waste no time; I needed to find a hiding spot. Granted I should've picked a much better spot than I did; I didn't think I needed to. How could Rolark know I took a flying lizard when he saw me go down into the sewers? Again, I was grinning the entire time. I just went behind one of the tents in the market district and bam, wait for nighttime when I could contact Kull and my other allies.
The impossible happened. I'm sitting behind the tent and who walks up behind it to glare at me?
Rolark. Looking as if he had never lost sight of me.
By Talad, I hate writing about this. It can't get any worse, right? About to get fried or run through by the angriest person since Stashka. But it did. It DID get worse.
But that's the bad part; I don't know how. I remember it getting worse and I remember lying to myself as hard as I could, but I can't remember why. I was questioned, yes. He asked me about my involvement with Sarren and the spirits inside of him. I didn't care, at that point. I was willowing...no. Whallowing? Soaking in my own pathetic lack of ability to even escape Rolark with such an awesome slip I gave him! But then, something happened. He did something. I don't know what, but the last thing I remember is mumbling about hating guards as he had someone tie me up and lead me away.
I don't know what I said, I don't know what I didn't say, but there's definitely one thing for certain:
I screwed up. I should've called for help. I was supposed to call for Hemmel or for Baras, or even the new guys. I should have called for help. I was being tracked by an experienced, renown mage and I didn't even think about calling for help. But I didn't. I lost. Maybe made the Sindika Syndikcta my allies lose.
I failed and I won't be surprised if I never hear from them again. I probably compromised them. They'll all probably dead or hiding, now. Even if they aren't, I am now more of a liability than an asset.
Writing...the process of writing helps me think. I come to conclusions as I write out my thoughts upon this paper and I realized that I am very much doomed.
My head hurts, I'm sitting in jail, and Kull and the others are never coming for me.
Hope you enjoyed the Journal. Sorry for ending on such a low note, but criminals like me don't get happy endings. Do yourself a favor and stay away from Kull, away from Roled Rolark, and away from Sarren. I don't want any more journals like this.
And if you ever do end up like me, working for Kull?
Make sure he gives you the bloody password.
R. Isturu
Only 24 days after Evacuation
I failed my family. I'm so sorry.
-
Passing the plaza, Dr. Lesiros Forita almost stumbles into a cloaked figure. Before he can excuse, a slightly harsh voice, revealing an Enkidukai, greets him. And before he can really collect his thoughts, he is already gone. Lesiros gets slightly nervous and hopes that the days of little activity in the sanatorium are not over again...
-
An Alliance Forged
Kull traveled to the city of Admeneir with haste. Earlier, he heard Roled was living there. It appeared the foolish Dermorian sent word to at least Venorel and Evirea: presumably, he wanted aid to fight the Syndicate. They were, no doubt, attempting to understand current events. Kull would make sure it all remained a mystery.
After watching the house for several minutes, Kull quickly departed. There was no way to enter unseen. Still, at least he could keep track of their movements. The Akkaio took up a table, by the exit, at a lovely little tavern in the city. A few minutes later, Hemmel walked in, carrying a mysterious book as usual. A fog settled outside, and it affected Kull's mood. He had achieved progress, but like violence on a leash, the situation was tenuous. I must achieve my mission. Then I can deal with this mob of angry fools. If push came to shove, Kull would take no issue in spilling blood...
Then his appointment arrived: a Ynwwn, wearing full plate armor, strode in. He took a seat at Kull's table.
(http://s22.postimg.org/umx7wp1jl/shot90.jpg)
After drinks, and an exchange of pleasant conversation, Kull brought up matters of business with the leader of the Prophets of Chaos. At one point, the Akkaio had been part of the organization. But he moved on to more profitable ventures. Still, the two kept a professional relationship.
After half an hour, the deal was struck. The Blood Tria Syndicate and Prophets of Chaos would ally, sharing services and information to further each other's goals. As he left the tavern, his belly warm with food and drink, Kull felt excited and satisfied. This was his hour.
-
Roled's face has lost the boyish rosy glow of his youth and has taken on a thinner, more drawn countenance, with creases appearing between his brows and sagging lines around what used to be a perpetual grin. He looks troubled and resolute. And tired.
After seeing the Ylian, who's name seems to be Raxuss, fleeing from Kada Els, Roled pursued him to Ojaveda, captured and questioned him relentlessly. Some information, not enough. Roled's partners in defense of the Dome took the man to Guards, where he was imprisoned for kidnapping and abetting criminals. "Other charges will follow," Roled hopes.
The elf has unceasingly set about warning citizens of the scourge of the addictive drug Moon Silver, and of Kull and his henchmen. Gleaning information, as much as possible. Encouraging watchfulness.
"Too many variables" Roled ponders, followed by grateful thoughts of friends who are gathering to protect each other and the Dome. But there seems to be even deeper troubles, darker thoughts and possibilities, that lead Roled to drinking too much, and too often.
"We need a miracle of the Gods." The Dermorian sighed deeply, stretching his almost healed legs, grimacing in pain. He drinks another beer.
-
New Journal: Day 1
Well then. It's done. Time to explain some stuff.
After my dramatic ending in my last journal, I figured that Kull would come for me. Whether or not I told the guards or anyone anything, he would still do it. And he did.
We talk, he threatened, I blew him off. Told him I wasn't Syndicate material. At first, he wanted me to stay. Learn from him and the others.
No. Not while he kept me away from Sarren, I had thought. I needed room to talk to Sarren. To deal with him. So, I took the easy route; I told him I was finished. That I was done with all of that stupid nonsense. But one does simply quit a criminal organization. Quitters get hunted down. I needed to get out, though.
The method was simple enough. You have to be more of a liability than an asset. I knew that I may have needed to go this route, so I never used my Red Way in front of Kull. I never used my own adaptation of the Way in front of anyone. If they knew what I was capable of, they would have me on their side or dead. I was capable, but if I just outright destroyed Kull, I'd make more enemies than I could handle. Kind of defeats the point, doesn't it?
That's why I threw the journal, remember? So that if I was slain, they would read it. See how pathetic I was. So that one death was clearly enough.
Not this journal, though! I've decided that this journal is mine. I mean, fully mine. After a month working for the shady Syndicate, I realized how naive about stealth I really was. No worries, though; I learned enough to keep this journal safe. No need to be misleading to myself, right?
Urghgh, such a change from my town. I miss it. Everyday, I miss the simplicity of my life now destroyed.
But things have changed further. Sarren is no longer a feasible target of opportunity. Along with being hunted by Kull and protected by Rolark, I thought about it deeply. Her Highness, Kaber, the Executioner...they were trapped. Defeated and trapped.
It is not them I should pursue. It is what trapped them. The Order. Phanterol. Or, perhaps, the nameless mage that stole souls. Started with a 'T'. Kaber told me a guess, but I had forgotten. I may need to speak with him but briefly just one last time.
Anyway, my business with the Syndicate has concluded. I have washed my hands of them and of Rolark, despite his wish to assist me in my quest. I must concede, the man is much more likable on the other side of a jail cell door than in the open. Not thinking about murdering you or breaking your mind for information. He believes himself in the right, the same as Kull believes himself in right. Indeed, do we not all believe ourselves in the right?
I told him nothing of my quest. At least, I think so. He mentioned my village, which I told no one else. Perhaps I let more go in the interrogation than I remember. I'm relatively sure he wiped my memory. That is a loose end I will need to cut if it catches. fire. Who all was there? Rolark, his assistant he named as Celroc, and who else? That Klyros. And that other guy. The citizen. His name was not said, I believe.
Anyway, I go back to my original plan. My knowledge has vastly improved, but I have much to learn yet still. I go now to continue my training in the standard Red Way and Herbalism. I need to get strong enough to bring Liera the reagents she needs; Poison Grendol Blood. A tough foe, I hear.
Also, I am speaking with Vladovic at length when I visit Ojaveda. Azure Way magic was always a Way to be held on contempt and to be guarded against, but my defense was pathetic. Vladovic can teach me the way of the will; so that my mind shall better fight against the powers of the Azure Way. He said my will was naturally strong; that my mind was already shielded against most Azure Way. But it was wild and reckless. A confusing and unguided defense. He will help me hone it, so that my defense will be absolute and no Azure Magic, no matter how strong, can ever hope to overcome me again.
This is a start of a new beginning in Yliakum. I emerge from the last trial with both success and failure. I am more experienced and it's a small step toward my ultimate goal.
Let us see where the wind takes me this time, as I strive for what can only be called an impossible goal. Impossible, until the very moment I achieve it.
Until next I write,
R. Isturu
26th Day since Evacuation
-
Her Divine Will
The depths beneath the Iron Temple were littered with rogues. One of the stronger groups, known for a particular love of death by strangling, kept trust with the Order. Kull arrived at their territory and waited with Bordak, the leader. He made several crude jokes: Kull laughed at none. Within several minutes, his appointment arrived. A young, robed Lemur with red hair approached the Akkaio without expression. He silently motioned for Kull to follow. They reached a quiet corridor, and the Lemur spoke in a soft, but assertive, voice.
(http://s17.postimg.org/o8q30vhn3/shot113.jpg)
"I am pleased to see you again, Phanterol. It has been some time."
"Fayat, I am pleased to see you as well. I am told you are now a personal attendant to a Councillor."
Fayat smiled. "Indeed. I have risen as far, as you have risen far, since our time as Initiates in the Order."
"Unfortunately, I have little time for talk my friend. My mission progresses quickly, but I am stalled. I can extract from the soul-carrier, but I have no other prison for the souls."
Fayat nodded. "I relayed your message to the Council. They resolved to offer you a path. I have it with me now."
Kull nodded, relaxing. "Good." Then he shook his head. "I do not understand why the boy must live. He could simply be brought to the Council. I have him under my control."
Fayat sighed. "I don't know why we must go to so much trouble to keep him alive. Though, from what I can glean, it appears the Council has plans for the assassin-"
Kull interjected. "Former."
Fayat shrugged. "Former, yes. Still, the boy retains some of his skill. He may be useful." The Lemur paused, licking his lips. Then he spoke, "Phanterol...you are entrusted with an item of immense value. It is the a Sacred Medium of Souls." Fayat produced something from inside his robes: a black disc -- so dark it seemed to suck the light around it -- pulsating with a magic aura, caught Kull's attention. The Akkaio's eyes widened as he began to realize its power. A black crystal, tainted with purple streaks, hovered in a hole inside the middle of the disc, unconnected to the treasure, except by magic.
There was a profound silence for several minutes. Both of the Brothers stared at the treasure with reverence. Then Fayat put both his hands on Kull's shoulders. He said, as if in cadence, "Destroy the atheist..."
Kull responded, his voice rhythmic and steady, "For crimes against the Gods. Destroy the heretic..."
"For perversions of the faith. Sacrifice the worthy..."
"To empower the Death Goddess."
Both spoke in unison. The chant was ancient, and all members knew it by heart. "I follow Her divine will. I shall annihilate all who oppose it."
With one last glance, Fayat departed. In the silent and dark corridor, Kull stared at the treasure he held in his palms. I am gifted with this divine mission. It is known: soul magic is heresy. Only the Gods may practice it. I am Her harbinger. None shall oppose me, for mine is the righteous path.
-
Edge of a Day
The young Ynnwn Asmo lays back against a tree outside his camp from the night before, looking up at the crystal as he thinks over the events of the past week. So much has happened in such a short time since he showed up in Hydlaa, he'd gone from hired bodyguard, to trusted partner in what seemed almost no time at all. While it hadn't been as easy as he'd thought it would to gather everything that was requested of him, he'd followed through and even delivered and hidden the items as well as he could, it seemed the task put forth for him today would be even more difficult. Especially with this Zerxzz person getting involved. Still so little known about that one, was it a one time thing, or will there be more interference today. Resolved to see this through to the end, he stands up and goes to pick up his camp and head out for the day.
-
[News of a confrontation with Kull, a meeting of the mages, two interrogations, Moon Silver infiltrations, healings, and attacks on friends coming soon- we' re talking a rp novelization in the making here! Saving the spot for a post, if Roled can make it out alive...]
-
A Precipice. A Chance.
Roled and his allies had begun to apply pressure. Some of the Syndicate were not only distrusted and libeled for their association with Kull, but one was hunted down. That coward, Raxuss. He had fled twice from Roled, fearing a greater mage. Little did he know the Dermorian could do nothing in such public areas. In his fear, he hid in a dark corner of Ojaveda. Unfortunately, the Dermorian caught him and used Azure Way on his mind. The fool went so far as to wipe Raxuss's memory. Then the Ylian was imprisoned.
Still, Roled did not have much useful information. Kull knew the clock was ticking. He was prepared to move his plan into its final stages. However, violence between Roled's group and the Syndicate was inevitable.
As he pondered his options, Kull decided to make the wiser decision. I will seek to negotiate with Roled. Perhaps we can come to some form of an arrangement. After all, I do not wish the boy dead. I only desire the souls. They too threaten Sarren. Perhaps, then, our common interest could turn into a temporary alliance. It would be temporary to be sure, for Kull had come to hate Roled. He often reminisced on moments when he had caused the fool pain.
Kull made an effort to find Roled, and strike a deal. A day after his decision, fortune granted him an opportunity. Kull leaned on one of the Red Crystal Den's colorful pillars in the broad daylight, and waited as Roled descended the stairs with friends.
(http://s17.postimg.org/8mh76hkjj/shot115.jpg)
He called the crutch-bearing, tired-looking fool over. After some beating around the bush with the impetuous child they called Rii, and the well-meaning Klyros Gova, Roled finally met with Kull.
The Akkaio said, "I give you an opportunity to avoid further bloodshed, Roled."
Roled said, "Bloodshed? Have ye killed again without me knowing?"
"Come with me."
The Akkaio walked, while Roled hobbled, over to the stairs by the fountain, for some more privacy.
(http://s11.postimg.org/q4qx8moo3/shot116.jpg)
Now in place, Kull gazed over Roled's weakened form for a moment. The fool's condition was a pleasure to behold. But knowing the seriousness of the matter at hand, Kull went on to say, "We have one chance to be in accord, Roled. Take up my offer, or this will get worse."
Roled spoke tentatively, "What offer?"
Kull stepped forward, arms folded. "We share common interests, Roled. We need not fight each other."
The Dermorian leaned on his crutches. He spoke in a lowered voice. "I doubt we have any common interests. Speak."
The Akkaio said, "I want one thing, Roled." Kull raised a finger, "One thing." A pause. "It does not include any of the lives of you or your friends."
Roled scoffed back at him "Oh? Be there something the great Kull can not achieve on his own then?" His expression impatient, Roled said, "Spit it out!"
Kull said with scorn in his voice, "I can achieve it, fool. But I prefer to do it without more needless violence." He continued, "You have Sarren's best interests at heart. That is why I think you will accept my offer. I'm sure you are aware that the boy is a walking prison."
Roled said, "What is yer.... suggestion. My friends await me."
Kull said, "The souls imprisoned inside Sarren are terrible, powerful beings, Roled. Their continued existence outside of the normal cycle of life and death is an affront to Dakkru. They must be sent to the Realm of Death, one way or another." He continued, "Moreover, the Seal on Sarren weakens; they could overtake him. For his sake, and for my own reasons, we must make sure these souls are dealt with."
Roled repeated, flatly, "Your own reasons..."
Kull stepped forward. He pointed at Roled's face, and in a low growl uttered the words, "You are in no position to refuse this cooperation, Roled. I could drown you in blood. If I need to, I will. Dakkru demands these souls be returned to her."
Angrily the Dermorian responded, "Ye has one more minute to state why in the name of the Gods ye thinks I would wish to help ye with anything...ever!"
Kull said, "Because fool, Sarren's life is at stake. I could care less for it. But our interests are joined in this matter."
Roled kept his voice low. "I have heard yer words. If I suddenly become interested, I am sure I will find ye." With that, Roled turned on his heels, and limped up the ramp as quickly as his stiff legs allowed.
Kull spit on the ground. In a loud voice, he said "Fool. You had better tell me soon, or else I do what I will!" As Roled hobbled off on his crutches, Kull shouted angrily, "You have a day, Roled. My offer is gracious."
-
Evirea glared at the equipment in front of her, analyzing and re-analyzing her findings. The klyros slammed her fist against the table, earning herself a pop of protesting knuckles and a litany of profanities from her lips. “Damn it all,” she grated, shoving the samples away. Her findings boded ill for most parties involved, and pointed towards conclusions she wasn't in the mood to entertain.
Hissing softly as she reached over to press her fingers to her side, Evirea regretted being nearly killed by that blasted mugger in the sewers. Now was hardly the time to be wounded, not when everyone and their grandmother was coming to her for answers to questions she knew decidedly little about. She couldn't bear that much weight in two hands. They weren't even very big hands!
Slowly the woman flexed her fingers back open, kneading her palm with her thumb. It had to be borne, of course, and needless complaining was nothing but weak and bitter whining. She didn't have the time for such things, nor the energy, nor even the patience. Feet forward, as always. One step at a time. One hint and clue at a time and the whole mystery would inevitably come unraveled at its seams. All she had to do was keep working to fit the pieces of the puzzle together. Well, if Kull didn't make good on his promise to kill a number of people first, anyway.
Standing to her feet, she gathered her meager supplies, dumping her solutions back into her weathered travelsack. She felt about as worn as the stained hunk of leather looked. Swinging it over her shoulder, Evirea plodded her way towards the door, in search of Roled, with every intention of informing him of her findings.
-
Aleeane realized she'd ingested nothing but liquor, mana potion, and water for about a week now.
"I'm going downstairs."
"Be careful," Rae warned. "If you end up in jail again I'm not going to help you any more."
The Ynnwn shrugged as she reluctantly parted from the room's safety, pulling her hood over her face. She bumped into the walls a couple of times, unable to see through the folds of fabric. She hated hoods. She hated everything right now - the addiction, the sympathetic look from the man as she ordered some bread and awkwardly arranged it and the liquor bottle so she could pick away at the loaf, the fact that she couldn't keep the food down if she just stuffed her face all at once like she wanted to. She was supposed to stay indoors, but the breeze coming in through the door was irresistible. The girl stepped defiantly out, wandering between empty market stalls for a while. She barely heard the Pterosaur landing over her own thoughts.
It figured. The familiar Akkaio stepped forward slowly, glancing to the bottle, and peering into her hood. Oddly calm, Aleeane just smirked. Kull took another step.
"Take off your hood, my lady."
Aleeane exaggeratedly moved her head to indicate she was rolling her shadowed eyes.
"At least take a girl to dinner first."
"If it would please you, I would." He stepped even closer, and glanced down at the blue bottle. "Strange concoction. Why did you mix it with another liquid?"
"'Cause mana potion and lacka don't really cut it when they're apart. Or rather, didn't. I've been told the withdrawal from Moon Silver passes after a while...unfortunately my tongue's stained too blue to tell if it's still silver or not. No idea if the nausea's a hangover or something nastier."
Her grip on the bottle tightened as she suddenly felt a little less rebellious, realizing what she was doing.
The menki gave a sympathetic look - why did everyone have to pity her? - coming closer still. She could smell his breath now. He replied in a low voice.
"I can provide you with the real thing, you know. All you would ever need. Is that something you're interested in?"
"No. Never. There are worse things than ending up an addict, and they're sure to happen if I don't get clean. You should've picked another target."
Kull nodded slowly. He maintained his quiet volume, even though the girl spoke normally.
"You know, my dear..." His mouth twists to an amused smile. "I did this to you simply to see what would happen. Is that sadism, or curiosity? But now I admire you; rather strange, wouldn't you say?"
Aleeane tugged her hood back and rolled her eyes again.
"You seem like a perfectly normal no-good Crystal-blasted trepor licker to me."
"Even addicted to the most powerful drug on the level, you keep a sense of humor. Yes, I fear I admire you." Kull shook his head. "Nevertheless, I have a deal to propose to you. Considering your current..." He gazed over to the bottle. "...situation, I think you would be interested."
Aleeane folded her arms.
"And just what, pray tell, do you think I'd do for you?"
"You are in possession of two items which do not belong to you. I am in possession of a cure to your ill."
"What items are those?" she asked, genuinely confused. Most of her possessions were at her little house in town, she was relatively certain. She dared not return; the guards knew where she lived. Kull moved his right paw over to her bottle, and flicked the glass. He smiled at her.
"A pair of glyphs, my dear lady."
"Oh, those." She did know what he was talking about after all, but why would Rigwyn tell him she had them? Did he think she stole them from the jail? "The guards have them. Or maybe Mister Thawaye, I mean, they DID fire him for letting us escape I hear..."
"You have them, woman." He was still talking like someone might eavesdrop. Aleeane couldn't see anyone who looked interested in the conversation around.
"Nope. They confiscated everything when they arrested us, how would I get at the evidence locker? I wasn't in the jail when I escaped."
"If you want a cure for the addiction..." Kull patted his satchel, "...then you will reclaim those two glyphs or bring another pair of the same or better quality."
"How would I know what quality? I didn't even look what kind they were, beyond Dark Way."
"A shadow and entropy glyph. You will concoct a story to the guards that they are yours, or find new ones."
"They already know they're Rigwyn's. And besides, if you're working for him, I'm not going to do it. He probably still wants me dead. I'll get cured on my own."
Closer still. She could count his whiskers now, if she cared to. The thought of cutting them off crossed her mind; she'd heard it made Enkies lose their balance. No, she couldn't, it'd be just like blinding the Diaboli, wouldn't it?
"Fool. Working for Rigwyn? I run the Blood Tria Syndicate of Hydlaa and Ojaveda. I take orders from no man or woman."
"Then why are you looking for his glyphs?"
"What do you bloody think, woman? I could never admire such an irrational person. We are through, here. Enjoy your addiction. There is no cure except the one I have been provided by Moon Silver's maker. See me if you change your mind."
"I hope you catch your mother's lice, lowlife!"
Not her best insult, but she only had a moment as the menki walked away, and the bottled-up rage had to get out somehow. She found herself a table to lean against, grumbling a string of cusses before her stomach rumbled, reminding her what she'd stepped out for. An unusual cough caused her to glance up. She tripped on her long cloak causing the girl to fall on her backside.
"What the--"
"Aleeane, come inside please."
It was Roled. She disentangled her foot from the garment and stood up, following the Dermorian into the tavern.
"Want a beer?"
"Nonono. Do NOT offer me booze right now."
Someone was behind them; she heard the footsteps. Aleeane whipped around and shifted the position of the bottle, prepared to use it as a weapon.
"Sir Xarock! Hello! Well met!"
"Hello my freind."
Aleeane cleared her throat.
"Um, hello, sir."
The trio discussed the events for some time, before the Nolthrir departed. Much as she wanted to curl up and let her churning stomach settle, she didn't want to pass up more time with her new friend.
"Lady Aleeane, I be sorry I..."
"Mm? What for?"
"RESILDREN! Down here sire!"
Aleeane looked at Roled. "Do you know -everyone- on the Dome?"
More small talk, before the Ynnwn left the elves be. She wasn't up for it. She made only one stop, back in Rae's room, to pick up the necklace. She'd done her best, the Ylian explained, but the enchantment would have to be removed if the gem were to be fixed - it was best to simply get a new one.
The pterosaur ride made her feel worse, as always. She knew she wasn't going to make it back to the cave tonight. Kada-El's was a risk, but she found herself in one of the rooms anyway. Familiar voices filtered through the wall, but she couldn't be bothered to go say hello. She clumsily applied a thin salve to her neck, where the gold chain irritated her skin.
Someone cast Phantasmal Voices. The gem gave an irritatingly high-pitched noise and the girl watched her hands flicker between their natural appearance and Alearche's pudgy green ones. She grumbled too loudly, fumbling with the clasp. Her hands were too greasy with the salve for the first few tries, but she succeeded after a few moments. Finally ready to sleep, the girl flopped back, accidentally hitting her head on the way down.
She was starting to regret saying no to the Moon Silver.
-
[Long over due. Sorry Kull!]
Her entire life, Thidin has been trying to prove to her older siblings that she was worth something. She started as Allola’s shadow, then she followed Kull. Over there the years she grew accustomed to following her family, walking in their shadows. She felt needed, as if she was protecting something dear to her, even if they didn’t need her at all. As she heard of Kull’s disappearance to Hydlaa, she quickly followed behind, worried about what he might once again get his paws into.
She waited for his leave from the windowless tower, hiding behind the shadows in the eerie hallways of the dungeon. As she heard Kull’s footsteps becoming closer, she stood in the middle of the passage, “What are you up to?”
Kull was up to his normal devious plans. He claimed to now run the most powerful crime organization in Hydlaa. Did Thidin doubt it? No. She knew very well what her brother could accomplish, but that never meant she ever wanted a part of it. As Kull explained to her his current greatness, sadness flowed through her, “I don't need trias, or fame. I'm not here for profit. I'll help you, but only if and when you need it.” Thidin had no interest in what he was planning.
Just as she thought the conversation had dimmed, Kull’s next question caught her off-guard. “I've never heard you speak of a faith you hold. Tell me, what do you believe in?” Thidin couldn’t take a moment to pause. She knew exactly what answer he wanted, and it wasn’t hard for her to show no emotion when emitting a lie. She gave him the answer he wanted, the same faith he held.
Kull’s face shown a wry smile, “I have been a Dakkruist since I could first learn her name. Even the word -- Dakkru -- resonates with magic. Yet I find myself surrounded by heretics, atheists and apostates.” Thidin gave her brother exactly what he wanted to hear. Kull asked only one thing of Thidin, “So then, if I were to ask you for aid in strikes against heretics, atheists and apostates, would you join me?”
Thidin remained calm at the question “You’re planning on more than just a simple band of thieves. What are you up too? A war?” Sadly that seemed to be exactly what he was planning. As she turned away, walking back down the dirty halls, her mind was racing. She knew the war he was planning, but sadly he could have no idea where she stood in the matter.
When Kull was finally out of sight, she crouched again the damp wall. Anger flowed through her as she slammed her fist against the ground. She took off in a rage, her next plan unknown.
-
[Great posts everyone. I love everyone's writing! Please, continue! :sorcerer: Post coming soon!]
-
A Hitch In The Plan: Two Angry Women, One Kull
Kull waited in the Gazebo, admiring the sturdy structure. Nostalgia trickled in to alleviate the boredom; old memories of friendship, drinking and a little spying. Then, abruptly ending this moment of sweetness, one of his Underbosss, a Ynwwn by the name of Edge, strolled in. They exchanged new information, and confirmed the importance of several tasks. Lately, a few internal problems had compromised the Syndicate. Kull would make sure they would be squashed, severely.
(http://s12.postimg.org/oft37j7h9/shot132.jpg)
Kull's real reason to be at the gazebo arrived. A young Clamod, cloaked and well-dressed, walked toward the structure tentatively upon seeing her brother and the stranger. Offering up a cover, which he knew she would not believe, the Akkaio said, "We have business, my new friend. Please, would you give us a moment? I will be sure to buy those iron ingots soon." Edge coolly said, "Of course" and walked away.
(http://s22.postimg.org/5kcci5hdd/shot135.jpg)
Kull's facial expression lost hardness, and became warmer when he fully turned to meet Thidin. He smiled and said, "Such a pleasure, dear sister." He moved to embrace her, but much to his displeasure, she pushed him away and said, "Why are you here?"
They exchanged a little banter, and then argued. She claimed he knew nothing about her. Kull could barely understand why she was angry. It was not as if he had abandoned her. He dismissed the matter. He managed to turn the argument to his advantage by pressing the importance of family. Kull needed Thidin's help: she was a skilled Red Way mage, and he knew he could trust her as a fellow Dakkruist. She sighed deeply, and then said sincerely, "Of course I believe in family."
Kull believed gaining her aid would be easy. He said, "You and I hold the sacred blood-bond. But we are more: we are bound" Kull raised his right paw, and clenched it "by faith." The Akkaio's voice was intense. He truly believed what he said, unlike most words he uttered, "As such, I must ask for your aid. It is of the utmost importance, Thidin."
Thidin rolled her eyes, stepping into the Gazebo just to stand in the middle of it, facing away from Kull. "So many things have happened here. Allola was married here, not that you would know. I even fell in..." she cut off her sentence, shaking her head. It wasn't something she was willing to talk about.
Kull blinked. He stepped forward, and said softly,"Thidin, I was occupied."
Thidin twisted around to face Kull. "We are all busy. Name one person, besides family, who was important to me." Her foot tapped quickly. She looked annoyed, "Come on. Give it a try."
Kull stared at her for a moment, cleared his throat awkwardly, and then said, "Uh...your mate?" He glanced at the wedding ring on her finger. She rolled her eyes at him. "So proud of you. Just get to the point: what do you need?"
Kull said, after another awkward pause, "There are several souls imprisoned inside a person." His voice returned to its former intensity. "If we do not act soon, they will break the Seal on the soul carrier, and then all manner of horror will come forth. This cannot occur." In his heightened emotion, and confrontation with Thidin, Kull accidentally said, "I have been-" He quickly corrects himself, "I have decided to return the souls to Dakkru. For She commands us, by Her divine will, to obliterate soul magic and return wayward souls. In order to achieve this, I need you."
Thidin busted out laughing. She did not believe her brother. "Sounds like fun. Can I watch the poor sucker be tortured!?"
Kull was confused. "I..." His facial expressioned turned to anger. "This is no laughing matter. If we do not succeed, there will be severe consequences: these souls are extremely dangerous." His younger sister was shocked, "Oh...you're serious. After taking a deep breath, and standing up taller, she said, "Why do you need me?"
He explained to her the necessity of a Red Way mage to support the other magical practitioners for the ritual. It was dangerous, draining and nearly impossible. It could only be achieved with the proper items, place, Ways, skills, abilities, timing, and so on. Kull knew his task was enormous: greater now, since it was becoming clearer by day that Roled and his friends would not cooperate. Fools.
Thidin nodded in agreement. "I know how dangerous it will be. Not the first time I have seen such a thing done." Kull's eyes widened. He quickly stepped forward and grabbed her by the shoulders. Then he spoke in a low, harsh voice, "You saw soul magic practiced?! When?!" She looked angry, and tried to jerk away as she said, "A long time ago, when I first came to Hydlaa!"
"Heresy. They must all be punished. Who performed it?!" She repeatedly tried to get away. "He faced his punishment, as did I for helping him! Now let me go!"
Kull apologized for his behavior, but Thidin would not listen. Evirea, the local Klyros doctor, paused by the Gazebo and listened to a small piece of the conversation. As it grew more heated, she wisely prepared healing items.
Kull said, softly, in an unsure voice, "Thidin?"
She smiled deviously as she turned to Kull, standing tall and strong against her older brother. "Find out out the name of one person who means something to me, and I will help you." Thidin noticed Evirea, and made her way off the platform.
Kull stood on the Gazebo floor, without much of a word to say.
(http://s2.postimg.org/7iv3kovpl/shot144.jpg)
Then, Evirea finally spoke up, surprisingly in a frank, motherly, no-nonsense tone. She asked if Thidin needed any healing. The Clamod's arms were bruised from Kull's powerful hold, although her dark fur hid it. She completely ignored her brother. In a calm and stoic way, she said to Evirea. "Nothing I can't handle."
In a somewhat steady voice, Kull said, "Thidin, how can I know more about you, if I can't speak to you?"
Evirea sighed quietly again, as though she was weary in general. She fished around, and then came up with a small jar out at arm's length. It contained a smooth, green paste, labeled as Kingsfoil and Feverfew extract. "It's just plant magic, nothing flashy, but if you change your mind about handling it, rub it on and it takes away some sting." She eyed Kull, and gave him the same critical once-over. Thidin sighed, turning only enough to see Kull. "Ask your ex wife. She is the only one who could help you." She resumed her conversation with Evirea, the Klyros doctor carrying a bag of healing items.
Kull uttered a curse in disbelief. Thidin did not respond, so he stepped forward and said, "For love of the Gods, do not make me speak with her!" Thidin ignored him, continuing to speak with Evirea about matters Kull cared little for. He often zoned out of conversations on trivial matters. In this case, a buzzing sound caught in his ear, and he saw red. The Akkaio slammed his paws on the railing. Grinding his teeth, Kull growled,"I...fucking...hate...her...so...much." After a minute of gripping the railing with a few splinters and cracks coming out in the process, he turned to leave without a word.
He trusted Thidin, and needed her magic for the ritual. Moreover, she has aided in soul magic before. Still...such an act is heresy. I will watch Thidin more closely in the future. The crime of heresy spreads like the plague, infecting everything it touches. I'm sure, however, that my dear sister is strong enough to resist it.
Since he needed her, he had no other option. He would have to do the one thing in the world he hated and dreaded the most: ask his ex-wife, Teshia, for help. Gods...
-
Whisper Rising
Kull formed the Blood Tria Syndicate for two purposes: to gather wealth, and to advance the interests of the Order. He needed talented agents to achieve those purposes. His Underbosses, Scribe and Edge, were excellent choices. Scribe was a capable warlock with potential, who had even showed his brilliance with magical research. Edge was a sharp mind and blade with a knack for discretion. Then, there was Whisper. Kull favored the fenki perhaps because they shared race and culture. But she was organized and clever. Perhaps more clever than Kull himself. But, Underboss positions were filled. Instead, he required a Spymaster.
The Akkaio called for a meeting late in the day, and she came with haste. Both Enkidukai made their way to a scenic area of East Hydlaa. People walked about occasionally, and casual conversation caught Kull's ears. Beside a washing station, Kull and Whisper communicated quietly.
(http://s13.postimg.org/ia08fr8yf/shot152.jpg)
Whisper admired the scenery, while Kull washed his hands after turning on one of the spigots. Cool water ran over his paws. It felt quite good.
He asked her, "How are you, my little raven?"
She said with a smile, "Growing stronger, day by day."
They went over the latest news and information. Syndicate Ravens had increased in number, and their information network was substantial now. It needed organization, however, and a clever leader besides the Boss himself. Whisper fit the bill perfectly. So, Kull told her she was now Syndicate Spymaster.
She said in response, "I am honored. I will not disappoint you."
He felt a certain sense of satisfaction, the kind a teacher might feel, over her progress. She may surpass me. Still, the Akkaio crime lord was in his prime. If he was to be replaced, it would not be soon.
Kull handed Whisper a folded piece of parchment with written orders. She accepted these, and with farewells exchanged, left to resume her duties and adventures. Kull remained by the washing station, deep in thought.
The Ritual of Souls would be enacted soon, with or without Roled's cooperation. He had gathered most of the necessary items, excluding a few special pieces: but soon, they would be tracked down. Multiple wizards were needed to perform the Ritual in order to destroy the Seal and extract the Last Three. Former members of the Order of Golden Scales knew some of the answers that eluded Kull. Since its collapse, At least half of its Council, warlocks and assassins were still active. They would need to be tracked down and extracted for information. Kull knew the task was challenging, but he was prepared to meet it. The hour will be mine. Dakkru's will be done.
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[I'm going to clarify something here: this is the official storyline thread for Blood Tria Syndicate, Kull and some other things/matters. It has to do with the criminal underworld, thus the name 'Shadowdance'. I thought it was obvious, but some people thought differently. I also encourage anyone involved to any degree with the Syndicate to post. More coming soon!]
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[ Shadowdance? Dang it! I thought this was the Riverdance (http://cltampa.com/binary/7413/riverdance.jpg) thread! ]
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[You had to, didn't you? ;D Well done, Rigmeister, well done.]
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[Sorry this took so long to post]
Whisper looked around her in a way that would seem casual to others, just a person enjoying the view. It was far more than that though. Long practice at seeing ALL that was there told her that they were alone - at least for now. As Kull informed her of her new duties in the syndicate she couldn't help but reflect on what had put her on this path - the day her life had changed forever.
She had not taken the "vitamin" her mom handed her that evening before bed. Mom got so upset when she dropped things that when she couldn't find the pill while mom went to get her water she decided that one night without wouldn't kill her and faked taking it. Normally a very heavy sleeper and difficult to wake up she found she was having trouble sleeping that night. The voices in the next room (if you can call a square defined by hung furs a room), though at a whisper, kept her awake so she listened in. It was her parents discussing something that was said earlier that day. Food was getting short and tempers shorter as the rationing affected them all. One of the other ladies of the clan said "Maybe its time we consider our own relatives and children over outsiders". This had confused Whisper because as far as she new all were relatives and children of the clan. As she listened the whispering of her parents though she came to realize it was her and her "parents" that had been referred to! Shock started to set in and kept her paralyzed as she listened to them. She not only wasn't their child they were not of this clan either. They apparently were taken in when Whisper was merely a baby as they fled from some unknown menace. To keep them all safe, the clan included, it was decided that no outsider would ever know they were anything but another relative.
Until now. Now her "parents" were discussing what was to be done. They couldn't go to any towns because of "the problem" that sent them here in the first place. Whisper listened as they discussed how it had been before she had been dropped in their laps.The next days her mind shied away from as she reflected back. All her childhood illusions were swept aside. Seeing the world anew she started making preparations secretly. It was easy to see now the looks she had missed or misunderstood in the past, looks of jealousy and anger. It took some time but she managed to steal a good bit of the dwindling supplies and lay them aside. Hunting and gathering food was second nature to her since she had been learning how from the time she could walk. Unfortunately with first the fire then the winter rains setting in early crops rotted in the fields and the animals were not to be found without traveling far.
It turned out to be a good thing she had been preparing. A few days before she intended to set her new plan in motion the Cave was attacked. It happened at dawn. She had snuck out early before any were awake and when the watch was least attentive to stash the items she had collected the day before. An old skin, some wax, a rope that was old and frayed. She was just coming back when she heard voices she didn't recognize. She slowed her pace and then slowed again as she realized the voices were coming from in front of the cave. As she crept up slowly she saw a scene that would be forever etched in her memory. These were no bandits! These were trained soldiers - the patches they wore she would later learn were of the Bronze Door Fortress. The squadron had the entire cave lined up and as she watched they randomly selected one after another torturing each in turn for information. It fast became clear they were looking for her!
When she realised she was the target of the search she immediately dropped down and crawled under a large thornberry bush. The bush was up against a cliff face and had a small cave behind it that the children would sometimes play in. Under the intense torture it didn't take long at all for some to start telling all they knew of her. Some time during all of it something snapped in Whisper and she ceased to care about their pain. When the guards realized that she wasn't among those seized they began to search. None of this saved the people of her cave. They were herded back inside and the screams... The next few hours were a blur for her she never did recall clearly. Not finding her in the immediate area the search eventually moved on. She ran when it became safe. She ran for many years hiding, changing her appearance, her name but always they found her again. She finally found a way to get to a totally different level and came to Hydlaa but not before visiting dakkru's realm more than once. She learned many skills from her parents including smithing and fighting. She learned fast on the run how to track and to learn new territory quickly. She was fast and well able to live off the land and take care of herself. What she learned most of all though from being hunted like game was how to read people and the world around her in a way some found spooky. She could tell when others were near - a bird's alarm call, a shuffled foot or scent on the breeze. It had been many years indeed since anyone snuck up on her.
The one thing she didn't know was why she was hunted. Why anyone would care who she was and come after her was a deep mystery that she may never solve. Those that hunted her had done so practically since her birth from what she had heard that fateful night. This last time she gave them the slip though she was able to cement a cover that couldn't be pierced short of ripping her mind from her.
She was safe for the first time ever but she didn't allow her guard to slip. During all these years she also came to have a deep and abiding love for Dakkru and strove to serve her well. Meeting Phanterol was fortuitous indeed and fit well into her plans for her new life. That they shared a love of Dakkru was an added plus. Unsure at first she found she was developing a deep respect and loyalty to him that was unknown for her. She had thought she was incapable of feeling loyalty and respect like this after what she had been through - indeed since that fateful night she this was the first time. It was like she was fated to join with him in his endeavors.
Never having lost track of the thread of the conversation with him and her watch of the area she responded to him simply "I am honored. I will not disappoint you." She did not add more knowing words were empty and that actions were all that mattered.
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[You can stab if you want to, you can stab them from behind,
Shadowdance, Shadowdance. . . --sung to "Safety Dance"]
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The Loss Of Family, A Sorrowful Ache
Kull thought he was Enkidukai through and through. He felt the culture, customs and light of the Packs in each moment. Race-wide sorrow over their lost home-world burned in him. Most importantly of all, he felt the meaning of family. But, ever since the deaths of his parents, he had taken to independence. Over the course of this path, Kull lost touch with his siblings. He barely knew anything about them anymore, including his sister Thidin. Such separation caused even the Syndicate crime lord sadness.
Nevertheless, ambition was a heady brew. It led him to train the martial arts of Kehaghaar-merrah to a level of expertise. Ambidextrous and swift, daggers were to Kull as paws were to his arms. He joined the Order of Golden Scales at fifteen cycles to seek greater power, eventually rising to leadership. Evil deeds accumulated over a short period of time; Sarren was one of these victims. Although, in some ways, Kull knew the child had benefited from the training.
Kull came to enjoy the name, Phanterol. It garnered respect and fear in the criminal underworld. But the Order collapsed in the coup. The young Akkaio assassin came to an ignominious end: dead in a dark alleyway, surrounded by a pool of blood, the light gone from his eyes.
As Kull traversed through the Death Realm, experiencing its horrors and undergoing a terrible psychological toll, he came to more fully understand the meaning of family. He thought of Thidin, and how they had once been close. But the Hand of Dakkru saved him, and gave his purposeless, power-seeking life true meaning. He came to serve the divine will of the Death Goddess. In this militarized organization, far different from the Golden Scales, members were taught duty. In this righteous path, for surely service to a God could only be righteous, by its very definition, Kull once again dismissed thoughts of family. It was after all a utilitarian decision: his siblings could only serve as distractions.
Over the few years since his rise to the rank of Brother-in-Arms, Kull was contacted by Thidin several times. She sought to take care of him, that much he knew. But he put no thought to her, although he trusted her. Kull had always been selfish by nature, but the righteous path had given him all the justification he needed to forget his duties as a brother. Yet he had also forgotten the joys of such familial care. Enkidukai culture seemed farther and farther away, no matter how much he spoke of it in loving terms.
Upon his return to Hydlaa, Kull had begun to amass power and wealth once more. Now it seemed his lust for wealth and power were coupled in some strange orgy with his duties as a Dakkruist. Where this tumultuous combination might lead, he did not know. But Thidin showed up once more, her voice lined with bitterness. But she was there.
Kull came to her seeking help. The Akkaio was now thirty cycles old, and he still mainly sought to use people. Though it was, in this case, for the will of the Dark Lady. Thidin rejected the offer, much to his surprise. In a rare moment, he not only felt pain at such an emotional stab, but empathy for her sorrow. For all peoples it was difficult to lose family, but for Enkidukai, it was a loss almost unbearable. It pained him deeply to see the damage he had caused. So Kull resolved to make amends, and perhaps attempt to be the brother he had never been.
As he walked the streets of Hydlaa with the light fading over the city, Kull brooded over these feelings, thoughts and memories. The gray fur on his cloak fluttered in the light breeze. A few people played in the water, but eventually decided to return home as evening took its turn. If I am to remain a true Enkidukai, I must renew the meaning of family. How can I be the Akkaio I say am, and not fulfill my duties as a brother? This is another path I must walk. I will be a brother to Thidin.
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Once In Love: Teshia And Kull
Kull felt the warmth of Red Liquor in his belly. The evening air was cold, and all of Hydlaa seemed to be inside their homes. Without much attention to anything around him, he ventured toward the Iron Temple. Such religious monuments to the greatness of the Gods not only brought him comfort but focused his thoughts. Since Thidin's rebuke, Kull had brooded for long hours over his sins.
(http://s22.postimg.org/papx3pz1d/shot149.jpg)
I should find some respite here, from the cold, and from this regret. As he crossed into the metal beast, the Akkaio felt a certain sense of calm accompany what seemed a permanent feeling of disquietude.
Kull had a hard look on his face as he entered the main Temple area. Priests in expensive robes quietly attended to cleaning, the reddish flames, books and devotees. He gazed around the magnificent structure, admiring the architecture for a moment. After accepting a small flame from a gracious acolyte, Kull puffed on his favored pipe, a long, ornamented piece. Smoke drifted out of the bowl and his mouth, giving a sweet scent to the air.
As he looked down again, his mouth dropped a little. Across the way stood Teshia, his former mate. She had been staring at him. She looked healthy and wore simple but expensive clothing. Still pretty, despite the scars we share.
(http://s8.postimg.org/43ww3xsmd/shot151.jpg)
Teshia sauntered over, her eyes cataloging what she saw, both the expected and unexpected. For Kull had changed over the years. Now an Akkaio of thirty cycles, he was in his physical, mental, spiritual and emotional prime. He wore a well-made gray, fur cloak. Beneath this Kull wore a hauberk of chain mail, tied snugly by a stiff, leather belt around his middle. Otherwise, black boots and dark leathers attended him. Quality linens kept the rest of his body from overheating in the hauberk.
Outside of Kull's knowledge, a young Dermorian girl by the name of Sarras had followed him inside the Temple. She ducked behind one of the pews, watching the Syndicate crime Boss and Teshia.
Teshia suddenly brought up the topic of their observer as they began a conversation. Prepared for a sudden battle with his former mate, and deep in distracting thought over recent events, Kull did not realize that he had been followed. The Akkaio's brow furrowed, and he turned around to see Sarras.
The elf walked out from behind a pew and raised her hands to signal peaceful intent. Uncaring, Kull harshly told her to leave. She eventually walked out. He made a note of her deception. Kull turned to speak again with Teshia. Her demeanor was peaceful, and her words courteous. Soon he relaxed. Perhaps the Temple calmed them both down. If this was the case, Kull was grateful. He did not desire more fights with the woman.
They shared his pipe, enjoying the sweet taste and smell. It certainly gave Kull a warm, lifted feeling.
Teshia asked, "What kind is this?"
Kull responded, "A local black-and-brown pipeweed favorite from Ojaveda. It is called Clamod Earth."
Teshia returned the pipe, licking her lips afterward to let the flavoring refresh periodically.
Kull decided to keep the conversation away from shared history. He asked, "Do you know my sister, Thidin, well?"
Cryptically she responded with, "As well as some, better than most, but certainly not best of all. Why do you ask?"
Kull cleared his throat, and continued to speak. "She feels that I do not know her well enough. Or care for her enough." He stopped, considering the words. Then he resumed, saying, "Thidin sent me to you, so that I may know her better."
Teshia, amicable though she seemed, was wary of Kull. Her eyes searched the shadows and corners of the main area. She shifted her stance, with her ear turned to the Akkaio. She said, "I see...What sorts of things do you wish to know?"
Kull spoke softly. "Tell me who she loves, or once loved...or anything. Anything at all that a brother should know of a sister."
Teshia arched her brow, and then took a few steps over to lean against th bench, "She loves her cub, most of all. She loves her crazy sister about as much as I love mine. I'm not sure if her sister is still around, though."
They continued to converse over Thidin's past. He learned of some of those his sister loved dearly, especially her child, and her sister. Kull found out that she had been part of the Adani Order, an organization of chaotic and conflicting individuals.
Near the end of the exchange, Kull grew even more somber, and the sadness grew. He could have aided his sister, and kept her from harm. He said softly, "How little I knew about the people in my life."
But then Teshia gave a surprising response. She wrinkled her nose, and shook her head to toss back a few loose strands of hair from her face. "You've always known people, Kull. But knowing people is not the same as knowing the pathetic minutia of their existence."
Kull continued to smoke from the pipe, letting the sweet smell pour into the air. He responded solemnly. "You are a cynic now, Teshia."
"No more than I have always been. It may be cynical to try and categorize and compartmentalize people into nice little facets, but it rarely works." Teshia enjoyed the smell immensely, stretching her legs out and laying back on the stones. She resumed speaking to say, "So that is all you wish to know?"
Kull paused for a moment, and then pulled the pipe out of his mouth. He said, without thought, "I have a difficult time explaining why I hate you. Perhaps there is no good reason."
Once again she gave a surprising answer. "You have your reasons."
He pulled the ornamented, long pipe out of his mouth, and gazed at her for a moment. He thought, A strange woman Teshia has always been. She must hate herself now. Though I doubt she ever loved herself in the first place.
He turned to leave in silence, leaving Teshia alone to her own thoughts. We were once so close. Memories of our relationship are...bittersweet.
As he left the Iron Temple, casting behind the warmth of the torches, and the comfort of such godliness, Kull turned to his own thoughts. Memories of love, of hands held by a lake, of time spent together, were at the front of his mind. But the air was cold, and he yearned for his own home. Wrapping his fur cloak closer, the Syndicate Boss dispatched such nostalgia for the reality of his situation. But even then, his treatment of Thidin, and his siblings, and his desire to rebuild his family, distracted him from planning his mission. If I choose to follow the crooked path of the conscience, then I may stray from the righteous path. Such is the divine will of Dakkru, that I must sacrifice all for Divine Order. But still, I am only an Akkaio.
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Shakar must craft, it is time. He just spent a week gathering bits and bots of metal and leather around Hydlaa's crafters warehouse. People don't realise how usefull are those small spare parts they throw in garbadge.
With a selection of those, sorted out carefully and reserved in is worn leather bag, Shakar climbed the sewers ladder up to Hydlaa plaza.
He always lived down there. Oh they don't know how it was before. A curious gathering of tents and small houses made of wooden board and metal patches, a city under the city. Well that was before the octarchy raid, the disaster. Shakar shook his head to chase the memory but he saw her face.
He remembered his mother standing above an anvil. She became a good blacksmith, able to craft sharp, deadly daggers out of nothing. That's what he do now, all days.
Shakar placed some steel ingots in the furnace and started to focus on the gestures he learned by heart. He liked to work in the forge in the early morning. No one to tell him what to do, or to look at him suspiciously.
Harnquist barely gave him a crafting book, but Shakar don't know how to read ! " Idiot" he said out loud. No one could craft daggers like him anyways. Small daggers that fit in boots, sleeves or any place in a perfect discretion. Yes, that's something Shakar was particulary proud of... Even thought, this doesn't make a living. Shakar is poor and most of the time he struggle to find food. Steal, lie, plot, Shakar never learned any other manner to get what he needed to survive. That's his life.
" Shape the molten fteel that way... and a bit on the other fide..." he mumbled to himself while hammering. With pliers he carefully carried an heated blade back in the forge, picturing the next step.
When he was about to finish the shape of a new knife, Shakar felt a presence in the empty working place.
At the entry of the forge, there was standing another enkidukai of a self-assured and wealthy allure. He was looking at him with a discerning eye. Shakar, still hammering, was very certain he already met that menki somewhere, he seemed familiar. He looked at him in the corner of his eyes and saluted hesitantly : " Haaay."
The enkidukai approached, determined, and said : " My brother, tell me your name."
Shakar, took by surprise, didn't really knew what to do. He was still hammering but slowler and was doing a mess of the molten metal : " Brother... errr..." he stammered, trying to control himself : " I be Shakar Clupea, an enkidukai..."
" My name is Kull Rhundin, Shakar. It is a pleasure to meet you."
Shakar stoped his work for good this time and turned to frankly face Kull that appeared so sympathetic. What he want from me personnaly ? Shakar was extremely cautious with everyone, extremely doubtful with "free kindness" but this enkidukai inspired him confidence, he had some strong charisma.
A vague smiles appeared on Shakar's face as he nodded to Kull, his right paw playing nervously with his lifeless ear.
Kull looked at Shakar for a moment and said : " Tell me Shakar, do you have sufficient work ?"
The shabby menki's heart beated faster, he unwillingly emited a sort of painfull moan, his eyes nailed on the floor, he was embarassed. Work ! Can he have work for Shakar ? : " Uhmm... Shakar works for himself, he does not win money... Why ?" he dared.
Kull aimed to put his right paw on Shakar's shoulder and said in a quiet voice : " My brother, it distresses me to see one of my own without sufficient work. I am an employer of several people. Work with me, and you will be paid well".
Shakar jumped when he felt Kull's paw on his shoulder. He was so close that he could feel Kull's breath on his face. He was scared somehow but the words he said ringed in his mind like loud hammers blows. "Work"... "Paid well"... Shakar didn't wanted to doubt anymore, he was thanksfull and Kull was familiar : "Aaaah err... I saw you in the fewers, do you live there aswell ?"
Kull peered at Shakar. The Akkaio's tail whiped a little at the mention of the sewers. But he continued to smile : "Ah, sometimes i venture there for a visit. But no my friend, i do not live there. If you work with me, you will afford a room at Kada-el's Tavern. It is warm there, and food and drink are plentiful."
Kull seemed so sure of himself, powerfull even. Shakar completly forgot his doubt. He didn't really pictured a warm bed but food... hearing Kull talking of "plentiful food and drink" made his ears twiching and his shoulders falling down : " What Shakar muft do for Kull Rhundin ?"
Kull smiled " For now, you will take this gift and buy yourself drink and food... and be merry my friend." He pulled out a pouch of coin from his satchel, opened it up and handed Shakar two golden circles.
Shakar was stuned, circles on his open paw, his jaws down, his eyes nailed onto Kull's. The Akkaio smiled and took his paw off Shakar : " Restore your strenght".
Shakar nodded, a large smiles forming on his face as he watched Kull walking down the Forge's stairs : " Rrho." Kull bowed : " Farewell until i see you tomorow my dear Shakar."
Kull left Shakar with money, a situation and a goal. A new start. Shakar shouted joyfully, careless of the world around : " Praised he beeee !" .
He gave him a name aswell, he shall be now know as : Mantho, the eye in enkidukai language. Shakar learned that per heart too.
The one that sees everything and that none notice.
[ This text to introduce the new recruit of the Syndicate. I am not really used to write in such narrative way so i am very open to any criticism. Just know tho that i am not a native english which should explain the eventual english "massacre".]
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Building The Ring
Kull made his way to Kada-el's, yearning for a quick drink from some of Allelia's best beer. The tavern was a local treasure. As he walked the streets of Hydlaa, the crime lord was deep in thought.
Syndicate operations in Hydlaa needed to expand, and Kull had several visible options on the table. First, he could saturate the market with Moon Silver, and therefore create demand by addicting the populace. Second, he could order robberies and create a short-term flow of profits into Syndicate coffers. Another option, the most attractive by far, was to create a venue for gambling and violence. The citizenry had an appetite for both as entertainment, no matter how the Octarchy tried to sterilize the city. As a means of novelty and a symbol of danger, all brawls would occur in a ring of daggers. The event would occur in the Arena. If any trouble arose, he knew that Gregori would cover it for a stake in the gambling outcomes. Alcohol would be sold for low prices, to assure higher bets and greater excitement.
Kull felt hopeful from the quality of these thoughts as he entered the tavern, its warmth and smell washing over him. The building contained an internal glow how well-tended it was by the owner and servers. Enjoying the respite, he walked over to the bar and ordered a mug of beer.
After purchasing and receiving a beer, Kull looked around to see a lone, young and bookish Dermorian man sitting at a table nearby. The stranger had a friendly demeanor and he raised his mug in friendship.
The bookish Dermorian said, "You look weary in battle garment. Would you care to sit?" He pointed to his seat, eyes upon the Akkaio. The table and chairs were stout, but worn with use. Allelia kept them clean, however. On the table a large candle was lit.
With a grin, Kull raised his glass in response. With a quick drink of the beer, he said, "I fear you are mistaken, for my hauberk is comfortable. But I will join you for a drink." He sat down, and said, "Tell me your name."
(http://s18.postimg.org/v62wtr2rt/shot175.jpg)
The young Dermorian said, "My apologies." They exchanged names and more information. As it turned out, the Dermorian was excellent with numbers, and through subtleties of discussion, revealed to Kull that he had worked as a criminal tradesman in exports and imports in the black market in the past. In an attempt to increase his network, the bookie said, "I admit, I am newly arrived in Hydlaa. Would you know of anything available for someone with experience in acquisitions and holdings, perhaps?"
Kull leaned on the table, and the bookie did likewise in response. The Akkio spoke softly. "The next time you speak about such a topic, I suggest you do so with subtlety."Indeed, friend. My voice rarely carries and I sometimes forget myself."
"Such a misstep can have terrible consequences. Do not forget it."
They continued speaking on business, eventually reaching an agreement. The bookie would work with bets and winnings on the Ring of Daggers. Kull had little knowledge of this man, however, and so did not fully introduce him to other Syndicate members. He would keep an eye on the bookish fellow, always wary of the quiet ones. Ready to depart with negotiation complete, Kull stood up and said, "Rrho, my new friend. Remember discretion, and leave no overt trace of a connection to us."
The Bookie responded. "Where I am from, there is saying. Until we meet again, 'shadows hide you'." He smiled confidently.
With an impressed look, Kull said, "And may they keep you safe." He left the tavern, satisfied at this progress.
As Kull left Kada-el's Tavern later into the evening, a cold wind whipped through the street. The Akkaio wrapped his gray, fur cloak closer. A bright young elf. He will make an excellent bookie. Rrho. His yellow, slitted eyes combed over the area, but were beaten to the catch by his ears, when he heard the voice of Mantho. The scrappy Enkidukai stood on a rug by the tavern begging for tria. The sight of a fellow Enkidukai in such straits gave Kull sadness, which was part of why he made efforts to improve the fortunes of Mantho in the first place.
Mantho was pleased to see Kull. After handing his friend a couple coins, he motioned for the beggar to follow. They made their way to the rear of Kada-el's, and there, spoke quietly. "Vejhape, I have a task for you."
(http://s12.postimg.org/gqxax53rh/shot176.jpg)
With a humble attitude, the scruffy Enkidukai said, "Mantho is at your orders Kull Rhundin..."
Kull smiled at the receptivity. The Akkaio continued to speak quietly. "Spread word that a nighttime event will begin in the Arena every other week. It will consist of gambling and brawling. Alcohol will be sold as well. Two individuals enter a ring and fight until submission or one leaves the confines of the ring. No armor will be allowed, and no magic as well. Tell no one it was I who told you this."
Shakar looked at Kull in a serious manner. "Yef, okay! I will spread the rumor all over Hydlaa!"
Kull nodded. "Be discreet, Mantho." He produced another hexa and gave it to the menki.
Shakar's jaw dropped. "No! You not have to do that for Shakar! He is okay! Shakar works for you because you helped Shakar! I will be your eyes!"
Kull smiled, happy with his employee. "Vejhape, you are my favored one. Now go forth, and be well."
Shakar walked away, transforming into a poor beggar once more. He began to shout, "An octa for a beggar! Please, need to feed me cubs!"
-
A Taste of Deadly Nightshade
The Blood Tria Syndicate continued to grow and expand, with new members coming in. One of which is known as Nightshade. Little is known about him, except that he is a male, and has unquestionable loyalty to Phanterol and the Syndicate. He has been given access to certain items, glyphs, contacts, etc. in exchange for his loyalty. Word is getting out underground about his services. He moves swift, with discretion, almost like a ghost to some. With this unofficial acquisition of access to these things, he serves the Syndicate wholeheartedly. His access to these items is a means to achieve his goal, his ultimate obsession: Amberretta.
-
A pleasant evening, talking with a dear friend, beautiful day yet, almost like clockwork, her crazed brother was walking up, about to ruin her pleasant evening.
“Hello Kull.”
An elf sat next the Thidin, but Kull made a specific act to ignore him. He wanted to only talk to Thidin. Kull blocked the elf from his view as he stood to look at Thidin, “I assume this is Shangshi, the one you spoke of.” Thidin’s mind was racing. This moment was hilarious to her. The brother who knew nothing about her pitted again the ‘stranger’ who knew everything. Kull had no idea of who Shangshi really was, and didn’t seem to care for him. It was made clear that he was here to talk to her only.
“Okay, then talk. I’m here.”
Kull waves in the direction of Shangshi. "With this fool rogue to hear it?"
She wasn’t about to dismiss her friend just so she could talk to her destructive brother. Thidin wasn’t quite sure what was the point of Kull trying to speak in private with her, but then again I doubt her brother had any idea that anything he told her would soon but told to the elf either way. “Yes, with this ‘fool’ listening.”
To the surprise of Thidin, Kull went to speak with his dear ex-wife, Teshia. Her brother, went to speak to his ex-wife about her. This day just became so much better. She couldn’t help but laugh, shaking in excitement to know how the conversation went. The information was next to nothing. Some not even true. Good thing too, she didn’t want her brother to know everything. Kull made sure to tell Thidin about the agony he went through just to receive a few bits of information from his ex-wife. Regardless, the effort did not go unnoticed.
The whole scenario was all but humorous to Thidin. Her brother, who knew next to nothing about her life, talking to Teshia, once a friend to her, all in front of Shangshi, their sister’s ex-husband or in better terms Kull’s once brother in law. Oh how funny this city can be.
Even so, Thidin grew annoyed with her brother, causing such a fuss just to learn about his sister, but not even Thidin understood why Kull was trying to rekindle their relationship.
"You resent me Thidin. I accept that I did not partake in your life as a brother should. I will from now on." He kept up with this ‘act’, atleast that’s all it was to Thidin. He wanted to know more about his sister, and possibly this person listening on the conversation. The one she put so much trust into.
Thidin gave in, “I’ll tell you more in time. I'll help you with what you need Kull. Talking to Teshia showed me enough.” With her agreement to help, her brother walked off.
She was curious to what he wanted, and why. For now, Thidin would play along with his games for she had other intentions for getting so close to her ‘dear’ brother…
-
A Contract For Information
Sacho approached Kull in the plaza for information. It appeared that he wanted to know more about a fenki named Nabilia. She was causing trouble and the older Enkidukai desired to know her motives. But Kull never gave freely unless the person was of special importance. Thus, a deal was struck. For information, Sacho would provide discreet services to the Akkaio crime lord. As he departed the meeting, Kull thought, Sacho offers me more with his talents and quiet virtues than any amount of tria he could put together. Moreover, this should be a simple and profitable transaction.
Later in the day Kull met with Nabilia. He presented himself as a gentleman. A woman of seemingly upper class status among the Blikau, she had a snobbish voice but spoke well. The fenki sought one of the Amaul brothers, who Kull knew to be Celroc and Celrau. Nabilia claimed that ten cycles ago one of the pair permanently murdered five people, two of which included their parents.
But Kull knew the brothers to be young and impetuous Enkidukai, not killers. But his thoughts swerved to Sarren, the young assassin who was drugged, enchanted and trained to murder, but who now lived an honest life.
He ordered Whisper and Edge to gather information on Nabilia. On a trip to Ojaveda, his birthplace, Kull spoke to Brado about the matter.
(http://s23.postimg.org/hxortk2pn/shot166.jpg)
The Clamod bartender told Kull that there were five True Deaths ten cycles ago. The Amaul parents died in a fire on their farm with two neighbors. Then the oldest brother perished by the use of poison a little later. Afterward the other two Amaul brothers were gone. Apparently, a fifth person survived the fire. He thanked Brado, had a drink, and went on his way. But Kull knew that Red Way could not issue True Death. The same poison that killed the oldest Amaul brother probably killed the other four on the farm, and the fire was probably used to cover it up. Moreover, the fifth person either committed the deed, or knew more than he or she let on. As the day grew long, and evening drew near, Kull made his way to lodging at a local, favored inn. He would continue his efforts to gather more information for Sacho. In part he sought out more information because the story grew more interesting the more he learned.
Upon Kull's return to Hydlaa, Whisper and Edge reported in individually on the matter. He learned that Nabilia had spread multiple stories with strange variations. She enlisted the help of numerous people and incited action against the Amaul brothers. Their name was destroyed, and she spread word that they were murderers. Kull more than suspect these were lies. He also found her upper class attitude and clothing more than a little contrived. Even the wealthiest of Enkidukai were not so snobbish. She claimed to want the brothers captured, and that she would hand them over to the Hydlaa Guard.
This and more was reported to Sacho when they met by Kada-el's Tavern.
(http://s23.postimg.org/secgxi7tn/shot177.jpg)
The older Enkidukai male appeared healthy and attentive. With due diligence, Kull reported in on all the information the Syndicate had gathered. After nearly an hour of question and answer, Sacho was satisfied. The Akkaio crime lord proposed another contract, if Sacho wished to take it up. The price would be a modest sum of tria. It was dangerous and complex, but could bring the whole truth out in the open. They departed amicably, Sacho once more reminding Kull that he could not harm others when he provided Kull discreet services. We'll see.
-
Apostasy
"Apostasy is a disease. Execute the source with impunity." - Council of the Hand, Edict on Apostasy
Kull strode over to Harnquist's Smithy, yearning to worship Dakkru with a sacrifice. He considered slaying a trepor or a tefusang, but found these options less thrilling than a heretic, atheist or an apostate. Such glory in ritual execution. I pray that I find one soon.
He saw a young, simply garbed, Akkaio huntress. She had a coarse demeanor, but was still quite young, perhaps around twenty five cycles.
(http://s14.postimg.org/67g85n6s1/shot189.jpg)
He asked her to find several pounds of choice meat from a Tefusang. Over the course of a casual conversation, he learned that she had renounced religion and belief in the Gods long ago. A harsh look crossed his face upon hearing this information. But he covered it up, and pried further. Kull asked her to reconsider, but she did not. I gave the apostate a chance to reform. This is all I can be asked to do.
Jilata soon grew angry with Kull over how he spoke about the Gods. She was certainly a bitter apostate, but soon, he would cleanse her. There was no going back now, for she would soon know the price of apostasy. Belief and worship of the Gods was a requirement, responsibility and a privilege, not a free choice. For her sins, Jilata would suffer the consequences, and feed the Dark Crystal. As Kull walked away, a warmth grew from within. He would use this opportunity to build Dakkruism within the Blood Tria Syndicate. All glory to the Death Goddess.
-
Ripped Apart
Kull walked through shadowy corridors in the Arena. He had heard Sarren was training here daily through the Syndicate information network. The Akkaio wore a Clamod bone-mask and a near black, fur cloak. Only his yellow, slitted eyes were visible on his face. Often he had worn it during missions, those seemingly distant cycles ago, with Sarren. He hoped it might rejuvenate the fool's memory. Eventually, Kull reached the center of the Arena. Sarren rested on a ledge, not making a sound.
After reaching a point not more than a few feet from Sarren, he said, "Hello, my student."
Sarren paused mid-stretch. The Dermorian reached for his mace as he turned around. But when he saw Kull, Sarren stepped off the ledge, landing on the floor below. He said, "What do you mean, 'student'?" He went on, "Nice persona. Are you partaking in the Ring in this-" Sarren gestured to the clothing "merchant of death costume?"
Kull's Clamod bone-mask betrayed no expression when he reached the ledge. He remained motionless as he said, "Do you recall so little?"
(http://oi41.tinypic.com/67jj8j.jpg)
Sarren's hands snapped to the shortsword on his hip. He rolled his eyes dramatically. "Nothing, thank you, apart from muscle memory."
Kull said nothing and remained motionless for a minute. Suddenly, he jumped down on top of Sarren! An iron club rose forth from his cloak, and the Akkaio aimed to strike at Sarren's head!
With all the speed of his former years as an assassin, Sarren dipped to the side and brought the mace in his right hand around, aiming to hit Kull's leading left knee! Out of nowhere, Sulaika walked inside the area. Upon seeing the fight, she was shocked, and clearly concerned for Sarren. She wore a flowery festival dress and an elaborate headdress.
Kull touched the ground with the grace only an Enkidukai could possess. He quickly swerved around on the ground, and brought his club to meet Sarren's mace mid-strike! Kull aimed a sharp upper kick with his right leg to meet Sarren's face.
Upon recognizing Sulaika, Sarren shouted, "Run Sulaika!" But the kick grazed his cheek as he instinctively moved his head to the right to avoid full damage. With his free left hand, Sarren seized Kull's right wrist that carried the iron cub. Sulaika roared at Kull to "Stay away from him!"
The masked Akkaio smiled when Sarren used both free hands. It left his defenses open, so Kull rushed in to smash his bone-mask onto Sarren's nose and forehead!
The young Dermorian took the hit hard, causing him to falter into a daze. His nose streamed blood. But with muscle memory, he drove his knee into Kull's stomach. But the chain mail hauberk stopped most of the blow.
Kull lost wind from the attack. He was about to smash his club against Sarren's head as the Dermorian reeled, but Sulaika launched a Crystal Way attack. The ball of white magic smacked Kull in the chest, and sent him several feet backwards. He stumbled back to the stone wall. After regaining his wind and composure, Kull arched his back and prepared to strike again.
Sarren drew his short-sword with is left hand. He planted his left foot forward and held the blade horizontally in front. The mace was in his right hand and to the side. He placed himself squarely between Sulaika and Kull.
Kull spoke in a low growl. "Afraid, Sarren? It has been some time since we last fought. Back then you were my student. Now you choose to be my enemy."
Sulaika ran bravely up to Kull. She lifted her gown as she tried to kick Kull with her right foot. "Sarren, don't protect me! I'd rather get hit than you!"
Kull dropped his club, drew a dagger and rushed up to Sulaika. He grabbed her left arm, and aimed to stab her through the neck.
Sarren roared as he sped forward. The Dermorian aimed with frightening speed to smash Kull's head in with his mace. But he still had a chance to save her, because she managed to struggle and throw a punch at Kull's right arm.
Nevertheless Kull's dagger breached her throat. He received a bruise on the unarmored part of his arm. But in the midst of battle, he didn't feel the pain. Right before the blade stabbed right through Sulaika's soft neck, and blood poured out, her lips formed to say to Sarren: "I love you." The young woman fell to her knees, her eyes wide open.
But at that same moment, Sarren's mace came crashing down on Kull's head. Sheer shock overwhelmed the Enkidukai, who slumped to the ground beside Sarren's slain lover. His head was partially caved in and blood matted the once beautiful fur. As he lay dying, Kull said, "In the Realm...of Death, she will be my prisoner. There you will meet me, unarmed and alone." Kull's eyes began to close, "In exchange for her...you will submit yourself. In one...day, a man will meet with you." Then, drawing his other favored dagger, Kull slit his own throat. Blood poured onto the stone. He softly said, "Dakkru take me." The light left his eyes. As Sulaika's body began to disappear, Kull once more journeyed to the Death Realm to finish his divine mission.
-
[ Nice :) Hey wait... if Kull's prayer is answered, then he would be perma dead! Take him Dakkru, Take him! :devil: ]
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[ Nice :) Hey wait... if Kull's prayer is answered, then he would be perma dead! Take him Dakkru, Take him! :devil: ]
[Kull would willingly go to to Dakkru. But his time is not yet! Beware, Rigwyn! ;D]
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[I haven't done this ever before. It shows Sulaika's perspective on the things. Kull was asking if I could write it. So I am no native english speaker sadly, what makes it even more harder for me often. Sorry about grammar mistakes and all :D I am really open to any criticism. Thanks to Kull and Sarren that I am allowed to take part in this rp :) I will reach back a little more, so someone might understand Sulaika's concern a bit better hopefully, but it might open also some things that Kull doesn't know yet maybe ;) ]
Sulaika was sickly worried. She hadn't heard from Sarren, since some time. She was wondering, if he was travelling or already kidnapped. After she received that letter from Roled, she got even more worried about the whole situation. She needed to protect Sarren, by bringing him away from public. She made a plan to hide with him somewhere and speak with the people that Roled wrote she could trust in.
But the first one she spoke to was her soulmate Yenida. She knew she could trust her with her life, telling her that she needed to talk to Evirea as fast as she could about Sarren, cause Evirea was the one that would know the way to save her beloved Sarren. Sulaika even trusted Sarras with that, since she seen that Hemmel was Sarras enemy too. At least two people that knew some little inormation.
She looked around for Gova and some other healers that Roled mentioned in his letter, but only found one important healer, that comitted to help her. She was told by the healer that someone was watching her. Sulaika got concerned about that, sending another groffel to Yenida with this information, written her she should be careful, they might both be watched.
Sulaika still looked around for Sarren, then decided to send him as well a groffel with a drawing showing a female elf seeming to be obviously Sulaika looking around worried for a male elf seeming to be Sarren. She was hoping it would reach him this time. She had luck, a little groffel returned to her with a drawing showing Sarren working in the arena. Sulaika stared at the picture scared. She needed to act now. Sulaika was fearing for Sarren. He was alone in the arena, training like nothing going on. She didnt had the chance to tell him about Roled's letter, about Kull's spies and that the groffel carrying a letter she was sending to Roled, returned without any sign of him.
On her way to arena she met Madalynn. Sulaika didnt see her for some time, so Sulaika stopped, being friendly getting into a little Smalltalk. Though she was completely restless inside of her heart, only thinking that Sarren might be in danger. With some apologizes and some promises, they could meet in Kada El later for a drink she rode off in haste.
Sulaika run through the arena. She was dressed up with a new gown. She wanted to show it to Sarren and spend time with him and talk about all urgent news. She was now mad about herself, how she could wear such a gown in the arena, talking to herself, „Stupid Sulaika. You always do such mistakes in such important moments.“ As she entered the platform, where Gregori usually stands, she suddenly heard a shout from Sarren, „Sulaika watch out!“ Her heart almost stopped, it was too late already, she was in the middle of a fight. She couldn't protect him enough.
She tried to get the situation, seeing the masked man, that touched the ground with the grace of an Enkidukai could only posses. His speed and agility was also that of an Enkidukai she guessed. Sulaika stared stunned at the two, thinking what to do, as she seen the masked man kicking Sarren's cheek hard. Several thoughts were running through her mind, thinking to get rid of her gown, but then she thought she wouldnt have enough time to do this. This masked man, shouldn't get Sarren, that was all she could think on. She roared at Kull and shouted as a warning to stay away from Sarren.
She was scared all over, that this masked man, would take Sarren with him and she just watching it. With the next hit that Sarren got in his face of the masked man, she seen blood streaming down his nose and forehead. She couldn't take that anymore. She wasn't weak at all, she reminded herself being a master in the crystal way, having strucked down people with her sword abilities in the past. She was cursing herself inside, „How could she forget her swords, when going to arena.“ Sulaika started to gather her crystal magic. She needed to concentrate hard on it, forming a ray of positive energy in her hand. If by chance this masked man was training in the dark way, she would obviously give him a hard time with that. She focused on Kull hitting him hard with her crystal energy. Sulaika heard an „oomph“. Sulaika relieved as her magic seemed to help at least for a moment.
As being able to look at Sarren and Kull again, she seen Sarren placing himself between the masked man and her. Sulaika desperate inside of her heart, as she known he shouldn't protect her, to not get in danger. The masked man sayed in a low growl, „Are you afraid Sarren? It has been some time, since we fought, you and I. Then you were my student, and now you choose to be my enemy. I suggest you tell her to leave. That will keep her safe.“ His yellow, slitted eyes that peered through the mask appeared to have a little red in them now. Sulaika was now only thinking to hit the masked man, as he seemed distracted by talking to Sarren. She lifted her gown up and tried to run to Kull's side, trying to kick him with her feet in his right side, not seeing Sarren's scared look at her.
Sulaika heard a noise like something was dropped, turning her head, gasping, her eyes widen, seeing Kull drawing a dagger, rushing to her. Surprised by the movement of Kull, she made a fist with her left hand, trying to punch him in his right arm. Between that, Sarren roared in rage. Sulaika seen how his mace Armed arm now droped with fightening speed trying and connect with the crown of his head. But too late, the dagger reached her throat, stabbing right in it. She screamed under pain.
Sulaika glanced at Sarren a last moment, her lips formed, „I love you.“ Blood was squirting out of her throat. She fell down on her knees, then forward, facing the ground, surrounded by blood. Sulaika faded away, finding herself back in the death realm.
-
Worship
Kull knelt on the other side of the abandoned room where he kept Sulaika prisoner. Before the Dakkruist stood a three foot stone statue of a beautiful, armored woman. It was surrounded by dark-wax candles, lit with purple flame. He was weak from the Death Price, but happy with the knowledge that he empowered Dakkru. Though weak in body, Kull was strong of mind and heart. As he spoke with strength and passion, a warmth erupted from within his battered form. Soon the throbbing pain in his skull dissipated.
With a full heart unmasked, I worship you Dakkru, Goddess of Death, Harbinger of Darkness, Ruler of the Death Realm.
Day or night, darkness or light
We who follow the righteous path, the chosen few
Dead or alive, wounded or whole
We who swear fealty to you, the tried and true
Joined, the eternal war!
Between order and chaos, the anti-God
No quarter shall be given!
Between truth and falsehood, the heretic
No quarter shall be given!
Between strength and weakness, the apostate
No quarter shall be given!
Between sanity and insanity, the atheist
No quarter shall be given!
We owe an eternal debt to you
With willing souls
We forsake all we knew
With willing souls
We rise, champions of Dakkru!
-
Clash between Light and Darkness
Two mages, one of the Dark way, the other of Crystal, stand opposite each other on a flat, stone roof in Gugrontid. Rain pours down, the roof is slippery. The air is chilly. They stare each other down. The Dark mage tosses his apple core away, tightening some of the straps on his ever-present leather armor. He reaches behind himself with his right hand and un-clips the longsword rising past his left shoulder. He allows the blade to slide into his hand, and he draws it the rest of the way back-handed, swinging the blade around in his hand to stand ready. The Crystal mage, dressed in a robe with leather armor underneath, channels his power and will inward. He has incredible focus, so much that he starts to glow with Crystal energy. He readies his wand-staff, a little under 6 feet long, holding it with both hands, his right foot slightly back. He assumes a steady, defensive stance.
The Crystal mage feels the rain running down his hood and welcomes the sight. He feels connected to the elements, remains calm and steady. The Dark mage steadies his footing and raises his left arm, clutching the staff in his hand. Winds begin to stir above him, and he moves the sword to a defensive position, holding it at an angle between himself and the Crystal mage. "What beautiful weather," he says, grinning. The Crystal mage appears unmoved. He smiles back, closes his eyes, and emits a light from the end of his staff. The light is not hot or strong, but incredibly bright. He angles the tip of the staff into the Dark mage's eyes, shining the bright light in his face. The Dark mage raises his longsword, holding it in front of his eyes to block the light and gathering Dark energy about him. The winds above him increase in speed. The Crystal mage opens his eyes and sees the longsword raised above the Dark mage's eyes and his left hand on the staff. Seeing opportunity to strike, the Crystal mage runs within distance and thrusts his foot towards the Dark mage's chest. Seeing the light shifting from the movement, the Dark mage begins to move carefully. He takes a small leap to the side as the kick draws close, making a three point landing, leaning on the fist carrying his longsword. His other hand holds the staff in the air, still causing the winds to grow. The Crystal mage pulls the staff downwards and inwards, attempting to rotate the staff with both of his hands against the grip of the Dark mage's left hand to break his grip. He fails, and decides to thrust the staff towards the Dark mage. The Dark mage drops his left knee, turning quickly right and up to parry the thrust. Rain pours down his face, which is bent into one of intense concentration. He moves to stand, pulling the longsword back to its defensive position.
The weather begins to grow colder. The Crystal mage feels the sharp drop in temperature and embraces it. As any normal Crystal way mage, he has affinity for blue way as well. The Dark mage refuses to let go of the staff. "If you don't want to let go, I will give you a reason to," the Crystal mage thinks. Using the change in weather to his advantage, the Crystal mage's hands, both gripped on his staff, start to grow icy cold. The coldness slithers and crawls to the other end, almost turning the Dark mage's left hand into a block of ice. The Dark mage immediately reacts. He quickly stuffs the end of his staff down his boot, raising his hand again. A clever move, but unfortunate for him a sharp, white slash cuts the air above him as a lightening bolt strikes his hand. The Dark mage screams in pain, dropping to one knee, but retaining his grip on his sword, albeit shakily. His hair stands crackling on end despite being wet, and white sparks leap on his left arm spastically. The Crystal mage sees the opportunity and gathers white energy in his left hand while holding onto the staff in his right. The Dark mage stands slowly, eyes on his opponent, left hand held in a grasping, but motionless claw, electricity sparking around it. As he stands he turns his body to raise his left hand at the Crystal mage, holding the longsword ready again, still grimacing.
The Crystal mage fires the ball of light from his left hand. The Dark mage anticipates it, but then unexpectedly the ball splits into two smaller balls of light, one that heads for his upper body, the other to his legs. This was an unusual attack the Dark mage had not seen before, one which utilized the light and energy glyphs. The balls of light were weaker, however, due to being split into two. The Dark mage steps sideways, leaning away from the upper sphere and testing the lower with his sword blade, once again gathering Dark energy toward the sword. The Dark mage still holds the crackling energy in his left hand. The lower ball of light is of course weaker than the original ball and splits into several harmless but bright pieces after coming into contact with the blade. Rather than blinding the Dark mage, whose eyes are squinting from the pain delivered from the lightning bolt, it instead catches the Crystal mage off guard. Unexpectedly blinded by his own attack, the Crystal mage becomes disoriented. The upper ball of light hits a stone in the background and erupts. The explosion is in the distance and does not affect either of them.
The Dark mage takes a few steps toward the disoriented Crystal mage and raises his hand, releasing all the energy from the bolt in his left arm. He shouts as he releases the flash, aiming for his chest. Still feeling blinded, the Crystal mage panics and drops the staff. He flinches, crosses his arms and shields his face and upper body instinctively, hoping that he doesn't get blown into a million pieces by this attack. "How could I be so careless?" He thought. "Subdued by my own move. How foolish of me."
The Dark mage allows his released bolt to strike the Crystal mage, but forces some of the energy to dissipate into the air around them. The bolt still carries a very hefty punch, on the scale of a weak Ulbernaut's punch. The Crystal mage gets knocked down, realizing for the first time just how powerful the Dark mage truly was.
"You could have killed me. I know when I am outmatched," the Crystal mage said, as he humbly got down on one knee. "I admit defeat." The Crystal mage opened his eyes, awaiting the Dark mage's reaction and ultimately his fate.
The Dark mage drops to one knee, breathing heavily and leaning on his longsword for support. "I will help ... you grow ... stronger." His face slowly turns to a calculated smile.
The Crystal mage smiles back, humbly bowing to this superior mage. "And I am willing to learn, Scribe."
Scribe responds, "As am I."
-
[Woaa ! Excellent Nightshade and Scribe ! Beautifull fight... Makes me wonder how in the DR i will be able to type that in 2 mins :o eheh ]
-
[ Nicely done! :thumbup: ]
-
Sulaika, Imprisoned
I. Violence
Kull awoke inside a cave with slimy walls. Several yards away, near what was possibly the entrance, a dim light protruded from some unknown source. The putrid stench of rotted flesh overcame him and so the Akkaio's vision blurred and swam. Kull heard the sound of soft and wet ripping coming from somewhere deeper inside the cave. After what seemed to be a couple minutes, his vision cleared and focused on the source of the noise. He managed to see the outline of a hunchbacked being eating from what was likely a carcass. With no interest in finding out what the being might be -- as the Death Realm had a wealth of terrors -- and no interest in risking his own life for curiosity's sake, Kull left quietly and quickly. He made his way through rocky corridors, caverns and small outposts in a several hour-long trek. Finally, he found a cold but helpful wanderer who directed the Akkaio to the Fortress. With haste, Kull made his way there. He searched desperately for Sulaika, and managed to find her running along a commonly used pathway.
Kull was weakened from the Death Price, his body aching and tired. Perhaps more importantly, his mind felt thin, as if he were violence on a leash. As he pursued Sarren's lady, he knew exhaustion would overtake him soon. On that same point, she could not last much longer bearing the very same costs of the Death Price. With this in mind, Kull managed to close the gap, until he tackled her to the ground. Sulaika struggled to free herself, but Kull smashed her head repeatedly into the ground. It went by in a blur, although a small voice in Kull's head told him he was going to far. Finally, she fell unconscious. Kull carried her to an abandoned room he had sometimes used for solitary prayer, study, practice and clandestine meetings. There she would be a prisoner for some time.
II. Prison
Kull wore the same dark, fur cloak from before. Though his mask had shattered in the pursuit, a hood mostly covered his face. The Akkaio felt a glimpse of discomfort over the lack of luxury: with amenities of oil, scents, quality food and liquor gone in this area of the Death Realm. Though the Fortress held a number of these items, he would not have time to stay there.
After he tended to her wounds, Kull spoke with Sulaika. She kept asking why he was doing this, and where was Sarren, and that he would not succeed, and on and on she went.
(http://s21.postimg.org/9rljmallz/shot201.jpg)
The long-time Death Realm occupant who Kull sometimes used as a messenger came by, as agreed ahead of time. He was given several letters in Sulaika's presence, and off he went after payment. Soon Kull's Syndicate leaders would know the situation. After securing food and water for her, the Akkaio had to knock her out because the girl wouldn't stop shouting. His head throbbed from the Death Price, and he simply couldn't stand loud noises.
Kull knew Sulaika had no information to offer him, and thus had no reason to interrogate her. A small part of him felt regret for the pain he had caused her. But the virtue of his mission left no doubt in his mind that his actions were justified and necessary.
The next day she continued to ask these questions. But it appeared that Sulaika had begun to lose some her sanity, because she repeatedly tried to kill herself by smashing her head into the cold, stone floor. Again, Kull had to disable her. He managed to make her drink a sleeping potion, an item he had prepared ahead of time. She fell asleep, and then after checking her bindings, Kull left to report to his superior.
-
Master And Student
As Kull approached the Fortress, he felt a sweet sense of calm. This was his heart, his home. One day his soul would return here for good, and furnish the Death Goddess. In every way, then, Kull would serve Her. With this joyful thought, he entered the great citadel of Dakkru. Through busy passageways, past guard towers and libraries, he found his superior's room. It had a simple, rounded wooden door with a pair of magically lit torches a few feet apart on other side. He knocked twice, and waited. After several minutes, an elderly Akkaio opened the door. Master Aroro was well-groomed and fit as always. He wore dark purple robes with a cleaver falchion sheathed at his right hip. They embraced one another after Master Aroro closed the door.
After some time, Brother Kull and Master Aroro were comfortable, enjoying the fruits of pipeweed and mead. They spoke in earnest, not having seen each other in many cycles. Brother Kull had trained under Master Aroro, gaining expertise in stealth and Kehaghaar-merrah. But more importantly, Master Aroro taught Brother Kull what it meant to serve a greater purpose. Brother Kull felt nothing but admiration, respect and fidelity toward this great Akkaio. This bond went beyond a shared Race, Clan, or even the powerful relationship between teacher and student. They were bound in blood and soul to serve the Goddess of Death, and in this, nothing could break them. All Kull's worries and fears were gone with this in mind.
Kull leaned forward, and then shifted his cloak aside. He said, "Master Aroro, I come close to finishing my mission."
In his slow, deep voice, the aging Enkidukai said, "Does the boy still hold the Last Three?"
"Dajiil."
"How will you bring these souls into the Sacred Medium?"
"I have his lover imprisoned here in the Realm. She will be exchanged for the boy, and then some of my employees will begin testing. Then we will commit the Ritual of Souls."
Master Aroro nodded slowly, smoking his stout pipe slowly, letting the air take on the sweet aroma. "Be careful, he still has some of his skills."
"I will, Master." Kull paused, then spoke again, this time hesitantly. "But I...fear that my resolve has weakened. I have slain so many, waded in much blood, over all these cycles since my Initation. Here in the Realm, I am resolute. But..."
"But the World of the Living weakens you."
"Dajiil, Master Aroro."
"Kull, heed my words. Ours is a solemn duty to preserve order against chaos, meaning against cruelty, and truth against the void. On these axioms of religion and philosophy, we seek a higher purpose. For without death, forms of life would have no purpose. In this state, life would turn to chaos, and seek cruelty in the lapse of meaning. There could be no morality, and no order. We know death to be necessary, and thus, our duty is necessary. We are the Dark Sentinels, feared by those we aid, and hated by those who would seek the void."
Kull looked into the aging Enkidukai's eyes with fervor.
"To preserve order and truth, we are bound by a code. But we must wade in a river of blood to achieve these righteous ends. Thus, all our actions, if bound to this path mandated by the divine, are justified."
With a pure sense of peace and joy, Kull said, "I understand, Master Aroro. Thank you."
"This is rrho, Brother Kull. Now, shall we recite a prayer?"
Kull smiled appreciatively. "Nothing would please me more, Master Aroro."
-
[reserved]
-
A quiet and unassuming, grey-haired Ynnwn stood in a dark room, staring at the curious, glowing device in front of himself. Kull would not be pleased to hear it didn't do what he wanted, but the Ynnwn was grinning wildly, manically. He breathed deep, inhaling the metallic scent of the echoed spell. It didn't do what Kull wanted...but it worked to perfection.
Now, all he needed was a soul.
-
[Note, for those who don't know, to understand better (hopefully) : Shakar has a lisp. The "sss" sound is replaced by an " f ", example : " Steel" will be type " fteel" ]
" Praised She Be "
The Kore menki was extremly worried. Weeks now that he didn't saw Kull. It all started when the Akkaio didn't showed up at their weekly meeting place. Shakar thought that he had business and couldn't send a messenger at first, but days after days, nothing but silence. Shakar asked chosen people all over Hydlaa about Phanterol but none of them were able to tell him where he could be found. They even complained to him, saying that they couldn't spot the Akkaio since quite some time. When Kull didn't showed up at their second meeting, despite the kore's craziest hopes, Shakar's worries growed into fear.
Standing in his usual sewers' quarters in front of a copper pipe Shakar was preparing for a begging session in Hydlaa's streets. He has to fullfill the mission Kull left him before disappearing, the least he could do. She will send him back maybe, he thought, refering to an entity that he never could understand nor picture.
Shakar saw Mantho when the pipe reflected his face, half hidden behind an old white dirty capeline bandage. A worn blanket around his shoulders, his boots off and an ackward limp was doing the trick finely. The Kore was "repeating" his part, testing his "poor beggar" faces. It was a mean like another to get a free meal at the tavern, atleast once a week... That's when Kull surprised him. Not only he didn't judged Shakar upon his activities but even he recognised talent in him for those. Shakar was begging ? Fine ! It was a perfect way to listen or observe without beeing noticed, to spread rumors innocently. Shakar has been lucky to meet Kull Rhundin... His thought opened the door to his fears once more. Shakar shaked the head, it wasn't the good time to think of it, he has a rumor to spread, a dinner to earn.
"An octa for a beggar ! Please i need to feed me cubs !"
Sitting cross-legged in an old carpet, Shakar was showing an open paw to the passer-by. Many was just ignoring him like he was invisible, some others throwed an octa, barely aiming his paw.
At once, Mantho spoted a dermorian walking down the street : " Hey ! Hey ! Sir, my lord ! Dermorian! " He leaned his paw expectantly toward Izumii : "Please an octa for a poor enkidukai.... I am hungry, please! "
Izumii, careless, spited : " Why should i have give you ? I don't even own a carpet like yours."
Since the time he used the beggar disguise to earn his dinner, Shakar could recognise all the kind of personnalities and adapt to them. No one could ever surprise him... No one exept Kull. Shakar sighed, angry at his worried thought constanly coming back and answered limply to Izumii : " That ?? It is an old carpet full of holes that ftinckf as much as Mantho! "
Rat eyes. A slimy grap of rat eyes, that's what he earned. Shakar growled quietly but did his job. He carefully putted his paw on the dermorian wrist and whispered to him : " You feems like a ftrong little dermorian.... You helped Mantho, therefor Mantho will give you a gift... He heard people talking... they plane a night brawl in Hydlaa arena, next week... money to earn, gamble to do... food, alchohol, fun... You are welcome. Say you come from Mantho the beggar. "
Bad day nevertheless, only 2 octa. But he could spread the rumor of the ring of daggers a bit more largely. Shakar wasn't so in need of tria this days but he liked to stack money for his trade. I am Shakar the dagger crafter and Mantho the beggar. Two in One, he repeated not to confuse himself.
After installing his beggar carpet in a new place, not far from the plaza, Shakar saw a clamod walking toward him. His way to walk, his allure, he knew it was the one. The kore focused on his "part" and asked in a desesperate tone : " Who would help a poor beggar ? Please Sir Enkidukai, i need to feed me cubs !"
Sacho spoke softly : " You don't have a trade, Sir ?"
Purposidly ignoring the question Shakar insisted : " Please My lord, an octa for a poor beggar, i need to feed my family.."
Sacho nodded his head and said "Alright. Lets go get some food and then we can bring it to them."
Yes, it was the one. Shakar knew his part per heart. Calling him "His majesty", he explained to Sacho that he refused to drive him where he lived, in shame. Despite the Clamod clear care and kindness for his so called situation, Shakar aimed right to the goal. After a couple of minute of discussion, professionaly drived by Shakar, Sacho finaly proposed the poor beggar to follow him. There they were. Shakar limpsing, they walked right in the tavern direction.
At the top of the stairs nevertheless, Sacho stoped and faced the kore : " I'm going to get you some food shortly, but first I do have one last question for you if you are willing."
In a perfect innocent glance Shakar answered : " Yef a question... what that could be ?"
Sacho spoke gently. "I don't think you have cubs. Though I would like to welcome you to join me for a meal at Kada-El's. Will you accept?"
Shakar has won again. Of course most of them didn't beleived his story about the cubs, of course he knew it : " Mantho is vaary found, vaaaaary found of your majesty's generosity. Oh yef he accept and he will make a feaft."
Sacho added: "I am Sacho. I am no one's majesty. Come, let go eat as equals."
Somehow the manners of this clamod pleased Shakar, he certainly was a clever enkidukai. He didn't seemed jugdemental, just nice and caring. It wasn't so current in Hydlaa and Shakar felt like he was about to have a good moment. And he did. Sacho has been friendly to him, in a gentle manner. Shakar wasn't ready to forget it even thought he tricked him at the first place. Sacho was to be kept in his "liked" list.
< * >
Days passed, Shakar delivred daggers to two more customers, he was starting to make a living out of his talent at crafting small blades. On purpose, his "beauties" were more expensive for people that weren't members of the Syndicate, but so lightly. " So lighthy ! " Left Shakar out loud in the middle of the smith, careless of the people working around.
"Heloo Mister. Saw you workin earlier. You make small blades? "
Shakar jumped a bit, giving an unwished hammer's blow, as he didn't saw the dwarf standing in front of him at first sight. He frowned : " Errrrrrr... Haaay fir ftornahmmer.... Yef it is. I personnaly do fmall blades ! How can Shakar may help you ? "
Arri made a grin and continued : " Well, me and the lads could do with a small blade each. Nothin fancy, but easy to keep out of sight like."
Shakar tried to take a very serious and professional face, like he saw Harnquist do several time : " Hummmm, Yef okaaay, small discret... Where do you plane to hide it ? Fleeve, Bootf ? Different modelf toward the plafe."
Arri glanced toward his boot : " Thats the job, a sticker down low. Easy to get if your in a tight spot, or under a table. "
Shakar was amused, he felt always so at ease when the topic was about the small blades : " Right. Shakar fee what the ftonehammer with green eyes meanf ! Shakar will perfonnaly get on it, as foon as now." The Kore started to prepare his spot at the anvil and said to himself : " Three daggers, Three Obbs daggers. " trying to remember the last name the dwarf gave him.
Arri Obbs looked Shakar up and down, "Now me and the lads aren't minted right now. So what do you say to a little trade?" He dropped a large sack onto the ground.
Shakar leaned a bit toward the stonehammer to hear him better, his foot avoiding the bag at the last second : " Aaah... Ah Oh. Shakar does not errrr... Shakkar cannot... " He looked up to the celling, seemingly pondering : " Three daggers for a stack of ore... Shakar fell the ore then he buy... yef.. uhmm... okaay... " He looked down to the dwarf and smiled : " Deal fir ftonehammer. "
Arri softened his voice : " So, three Obbs daggers. If someone comes askin, you ain't seen me.....and the ore fell off the back of a dwarf. " He chuckled.
Shakar nodded as if Arri just spoke of the weather and opened the bag of ores : " Shakar does not know you perfonnaly. " Watching over the raw metal, the menki added : " Shakar will find you when it is ready for use."
Arri proposed then : " Now, lets be shakin on it. " and holded out his hand.
Shakar holded out his paw and taped Arri's.
The dwarf looked at his hand and gave it a quick wipe on his trews : " That's the ticket. Good to see ya"
Shakar, that didn't even noticed Arri's gesture, made a large smile out of nowhere before walking to the Smith, ready to work : " Shakar has an order... yef he has... he muft focuf..." He commanded to himself, trying to chase what was eating into his mind since weeks now.
At the end of that very day, after hours and hours of smithing and blabbering, Shakar putted his hammer away and walked back to the sewers, exhausted. As he passed discretly behind the guards chatting in front of Kada-El's Tavern, a vision striked him.
There, not far from the sewers entry, was standing Kull.
< * >
Exceptionally excited and happy, Shakar stammered, his tail wiping fastly : " Shak.. Shakar... Ku... Haaay.. ! "
Kull looked at Shakar with a warm smile that filled Shakar of a great joy. Careless of the customers of the tavern going in and out, Shakar, clapped in his paws, making a feast to his "boss" : " You are fafe, you are in front of Shakar !! Praised She bee !! Praised... Shakar was worried !"
In a casual tone, Kull asked about Shakar whom summarised for him the results of his mission. Kull smiled, he was happy with him. Shakar was in an uncontrolable jubilation and Kull has to remind him silently : " Speak quietly when we discuss the tasks i give you, vejhape"
Smiling brightly Shakar nodded, ready to do anything that would please Kull. Therefor on an order, he followed him down in the sewers.
Once down, Kull noted : " We will not need a torch, vejhape, for we are gifted..." He continued, "Come."
Shakar was just full of his joy to feel Kull's strong presence again : " Shakar knew Kull Rhundin went in fewers, he does like that aswell... Happy he is !"
The menkis walked down the steps, through the sewers, and stoped at the bottom. The air smelled of feces, piss and rotting flesh. Kull sniffed, and looked to the left. "I know my way through these sewers, vejhape, for they serve me well."
Shakar didn't seemed to notice the strong odor or to be embrassed by it : " Yeff, they serve Shakar well to.." He pointed behind him : " The rat there are for Shakar's dinner eheh"
Kull stoped at a dead end and glanced to the left, where a small but stout tefusang sat sleeping, tied to the sewer pipe bars by a strong rope.
Shakar followed Kull's look and showed a surprised face : " What is this doing there ?! It does not belong."
Determined, Kull turned to Shakar and said, softly, "Tell me, Shakar, do you follow a God?"
Surprised by such a question, Shakar scratched his neck, then started to play with his lifeless ear inbetween two fingers : " Err... Uhm... Shakar like the Gods yef.. He doesn't know much about them but praised they be for they didn't let Shakar all the time in despair... For they send Kull Rhundin to Shakar... " The poor Kore seemed satisfied of his answer but he made a pause and admited, as it was a secret : " Mother faid once to praise She, for "She is our Life and Death Mother"... But Shakar doesn't know who she is perfonnaly"
Kull stated then : " Your mother is wise. She spoke of Dakkru, Goddess of Death. She brought me to you, Shakar."
Shakar's eyes were round of astonishment, he looked at Kull as if he was having a vision : " Kull Rhundin, is Her agent ? Kull Rhundin is a god gift for real ? They really faw Shakar and fend him Kull Rhundin?"
Kull inclined his head to the Kore "I am a devotee of Dakkru, sworn to Her service. Tell me, who do you think gives you the strength to hide in the shadows, to keep thy daggers close to your heart, to survive in the sewers? The beauty of death, and the Will of Dakkru."
Shakar's jaws dropped slowly as Kull explained : " Errrr... She is Dak... Dakkru ? She is Dakkru !!! Mother was praying Dakkru and today Kull Rhundin is send by She ! " Shakar imagined further, speaking very fast : " Dakkru muft protect Shakkar when he begg aswell as, furthermore, protect Shakar when he create daggers that fit everywhere in difcretion..." Shakar felt like he could understand better a couple of things now Kull revealed Her name and Her power. The Kore peered at a wall, tooking time to digest the information, then glanced at Kull again : " Shakar didn't knew that... He wonder what he can do, for She."
Kull pulled a sharp, balanced dagger from beneath his cloak. He safely offered it to Shakar in silence.
Without the ounce of a fear, Shakar watched each of Kull's gestures and catched precisouly the offered ritual dagger : " What is that beauty you give to Shakar made for ?"
Kull started to speak with passion. "The Goddess of Death rules over death, and mandates us to preserve the divine order of Yliakum. This means many things, and soon you will learn more of them, but for now, you must do one thing: slay this tefusang in worship to Her. It is the Ritual of Beast Death, and is both literal and symbolic in worship to our Goddess."
Struggling to understand all, Shakar frowned. He tried all he could to follow and decipher properly each of the words Kull was spelling. Two fingers on his forehead, pondering, Shakar admited seriously : " Errr Shakar cannot understand all the words that Kull Rhundin faid just now because : one, he's not as wise as Her agent and two, he will do what Kull ask for he is bleffed by She."
As Kull commanded, Shakar placed himself in front of the Tefusang, now awaken. The beast was moaning of fear, in despair, pulling the rope endlessly, tryna escape.
Kull said: "Speak these words before you strike..."
Extremly serious, Shakar repeated the words Kull has announced. Raising the ritual dagger above the nervous tefusang he recited : " Dakkru.. Godeff of Death, Ruler of the Death Realm, Guardian of Order, I worship you..." The Kore looked at Kull in the corner of his eyes to see if he said all, well enough.
And Kull continued, apparently satisfied : " ...I am small and weak, but I serve you. I commend this meager gift, the soul of a beast..."
Shakar felt a warmth, as suddent as a lightning, a burning joy. He was unusually focused. The force that was infusing him came from Kull he was sure of it. From She by Kull Rhundin. There was no temple, no one in the background strinking up prayers to enhance the spirits to the divine. Nothing but two menkis in the middle of the sewers. But it was all alike for Shakar. No more world around, No more hard life and tortured thoughts, just him, Kull and She, watching, waiting on her offering. The tefusang trembled, pushing long scared moans but Shakar was blindly concentrate : " ... I am fmall and weak, but i ferve you. I commend this meager gift, the foul of a beaft..."
Kull spoke louder now, his eyes opened wider, his voice harsher, "I offer you this gift, to furnish your power! Dakkru, I serve you with my life!"
Shakar, as in a trance, could feel Kull's passion, his tail wiping, his valid ear titled down, his dagger firmly tightened in his paw, he backed up a bit in an attack position and said, almost screaming : " I offer you this gift, to furnish your power ! Dakkru, i ferve you with my life ! " In a blink of an eye, Shakar throwed his arm, cutting the tefusang throat all the way long, the last scream of the beast resounding in the sewers, its blood spattering all over Shakar's face, imbibing his fur. The Kore passed his tongue around his mouth as in a blood thirst.
Kull ears perked up to the tefusang's dying scream. He watched its blood pour down past the wooden boards, deeper into the sewers below. He smiled at Shakar. "You are now a devotee of Dakkru, Shakar. You have begun a new stage in your life: you serve a greater purpose."
Eyes shining, look stuned onto Kull's, his arm trembling along his body, dagger still stuck his in paw, Shakar said in a neutral tone : " Dakkru... Dakkru took Shakar ?"
Kull says: "Dakkru has taken you into Her embrace, Shakar. Now you must love Her, and defend Her. For there are forces in the World of the Living that threaten Her."
Shakar yissed still wrapped in that burning embrace he felt earlier and now anchored in the link he always had with Her : " Shakar could felt the force when he did the offering. Shakar doesn't know how to thanks Kull Rhundin for he showed Shakar the true things of Her... Praised She be."
Kull asked: "Kneel, vejhape."
Shakar kneeled in front of Kull, smiling to him. He was feeling emptied of his strenght, as if he just gave all away, but it was good, felt like he fulfilled a mission started years ago.
Kull walked up to Shakar and stood before the Kore menki. He aimed to put his right paw on Shakar's head. Shakar closed his eyes, his loyatly devoted to Kull, he didn't had any fears anymore. He was ready for the ritual.
"Shakar known as Mantho. You are now an Acolyte of Dakkru. Have no fear, for you now follow a righteous path. Dakkru commands us to follow Her, and follow Her we shall." Kull paused to stare down at Shakar with pride then continued, "Acolyte Mantho. Dead or alive, wounded or whole, will you serve?"
Shakar trembled, eyes wet, for the first time he felt part of a greatest thing then the world around, the people of everyday day or himself. She was now in his life : " Yef he will.. for She is my home, my goal. "
Kull continued : "Do you swear to fight all those who oppose Dakkru?"
Shakar set the dagger he holded horizontaly in front of him and pledged : " Shakar fwear to be hers and to defend Her at all the time for She protect Shakar and Kull Rhundin."
"You are Shakar, simple smith to the world. You are Mantho, Raven and beggar to the Syndicate. Now, you are Acolyte to Dakkru. Vejhape, you are gifted with three roles in the world. Use them well to serve Her." Kull paused, and then resumed to say : "Rise, Acolyte Mantho."
Shakar was a bit disoriented, some tears falled from his eyes but he wasn't crying, he looked at Kull visibly tired but thankfull. Shakar cannot take Kull in his personal arms, He will not like it !. He smiled largely and articulated : " You are personnaly, Shakar's true vejhape that no one was before... for he never knew who he was praying and who She was... Shakar thanks you. "
Kull stared at Shakar, looking straight into the Kore's eyes. His voice was firm and passionate. "We are vejhape by Race, by the Syndicate, by our friendship, and by Dakkru. Never forget this, for I will never forget you."
Shakar felt Kull's look until inside his body, right in his heart, he stammered : " Yef. Yef.. I personally will never forget Kull Rhundin either for he is the crafter of Shakar's new life." Curious, the Kore menki leaned over the Akkaio and asked : " Does she have a temple where Shakar can pray to her and live an offering ?"
Kull explained : "In the Realm of Death, Dakkru has a great citadel. Otherwise, we use meeting places for our fellow devotees, and rituals. There is no permanent shrine for us, for we yearn to one day return to Her embrace in the Realm of Death. Until then, we serve Her in the World of the Living."
Shakar nodded firmly : " Shakar already went down there.. He stayed there atleaft a week because fome warriors left weaponf and Shakar took them... She welcomed Shakar and left him rejoin the livings at onfe... " Shakar placed his fist on his heart " Shakar will think of her in there..." Casualy, and more or less out of nowhere, he asked " Can Shakar do fomething for Kull Rhundin life ? "
" Mantho, look to the world for information on those who no longer believe in the Gods, reject them, or oppose them. We must find them and reform them, or else, punish them. They are threats to Her."
Shakar listened Kull as always with passion and agreed : " Yef Shakar understand Vejhape.... he will tell when he fee one that does not do what he is fupposed to do... Yef he will. Okaaay. " Shakar's right ear twiched a bit, his attention catched, he sniffed around : " Rats are living.... They might makes the waters flows soon on this fide of the fewers, you need to watch out."
" Thank you, Mantho. Now go, and consider what has happened. You have begun a new life. Such a change requires deep thought." Kull steped back, and folded his arms beneath his gray, fur cloak.
Shakar nodded slowly, very conscious of it, even tho he didn't really knew how to handle it... he waved : " Kull Rhundin can count on Shakar for he will be there"
" Vejhape, you may rely on your brother... May the shadows hide you." Kull said before disappearing behind the corner of a sewer's corridor.
That was it. Shakar was sure of it now. Kull was away all this days because he was with Her. She was in him and has leaded Kull to take Shakar to Her. Kull Rhundin is the guide.
-
Madness
There was a man standing in the corner. He was smiling at her, but not in the amiable, inviting fashion. It was a satisfied smirk, a gratified grin. Victory was written on that face, victory and revelry in death dealt. No matter how much she told herself he wasn't really there, she couldn't keep the chill from running down her spine.
The candle sputtered beside her, and she leaned closer to the parchment, quill moving rapidly across its pages. The scratching and the occasional crackle from the tiny flame were her only companions. Well, that and the occasional jab from the unwelcome phantom.
“You'll fail this too, you know,” he said, examining his nails with express boredom. “Just like you failed to stop me. I mean, come on. You can't even protect your own husband. Your incompetence is disgusting. I'll never understand why people go to you to fix their woes. Tell me, how many corpses have been laid to rest because of wrong choices you've made, Evirea? How many? Ten? Twenty? Hundreds?”
The klyros pressed down harder, leaving a dent in the paper, gritting her teeth. “He's not there,” she whispered to herself, etching out another line painstakingly slow. Her jaw ached from the grinding, her muscles burned from the tension. She did not look up, and repeated quietly to herself, “He's not there.”
The ruffle of clothing passing close to her table. The feeling of someone breathing against her neck, warm, damp, unpleasant. A hand smoothed its way over her shoulder and cleared the wrinkles from her tunic, and she shuddered. His lips pressed close to her cheek, and he whispered quietly, “You're going to fail. That little girl you made your promise to? All the friends relying on you to free Sarren and get Sulaika back again? They're going to look at you with loathing. They're going to realize how utterly useless you are, and then they'll leave you alone. All alone. And you deserve no better, isn't that right?”
She lurched, chair flipping over as she moved away from him, snarling. “Shut up!” She snapped. “Just shut up! I bloody figured out how to cure him, didn't I? I bloody figured out that much. He's whole now thanks to the rest of them. Thanks to the rest of them. They'll get her back too, you wait and see. Just wait and see!”
He crept closer. Long-legged. Silver hair. Pretty face. The lemur chuckled quietly, reaching out to tuck his hand beneath her chin. His nails bit in harshly as he gripped and she winced, feeling every nerve respond as if it were all completely real. “You did nothing. Next to nothing. Nothing at all. You're useless, Evirea, and you have them all fooled into thinking you have some purpose. But your purpose died along with him. You know it. I know it. Your purpose died when you watched him crumble at your feet.” With a twitch of his wrist, he jerked her head around. Her eyes widened and she struggled to pull away, but he slipped a hand around her waist and throat, holding her there and forcing her to stare at the figure now standing on the other side of the table, looking at her with sorrowful eyes.
“Fuusan,” she whispered. Her voice cracked. He smiled at her, white pointed teeth, gray scales crinkling. Dressed in the robes she'd gifted him with. He held his arm out towards her, the one etched in klyran letters. Friend. Protector. Love. “None of which you were to him, really,” the lemur hissed into her ear. “Not in the end. Countless times, countless times he protected you, over and over again. And when he needed you most, you let him die. You let him die.”
It started at the top of his headfin, skin flaking off. Like he was rotting in front of her eyes. She shrieked in horror, kicked, flailed, but she was paralyzed to move, to look away. His face melted away, his shoulders, his chest, so fast yet somehow slow enough that she saw every detail, every piece. Eventually nothing was left but so much dust, and the lemur dropped her, letting her crawl forward and trail shaking fingers through the filth that was once her lover. Her eyes were drawn to her own hand, to the lines softly throbbing along her palm as she turned it over, black like ink beneath her skin.
“You'll fail them like you failed him,” he was saying, certainty in every word. “You can't win against any of this, you know what you're up against is too much, too strong, and you know too little, even with people flinging the obvious at you at every time. Worthless, Evirea. You're worthless.”
She stood slowly, her knees shaking. Slowly, she drew her claws along the lines, turning to stare at the phantom behind her. “You're not real,” she murmured. And she plunged one of her claws into her skin.
The lemur flickered, scowled. “Real or not, you know I'm right,” he shouted, stepping closer. She grinned, feeling warm blood trickle down her wrist as she plunged the claw in again. He grew fainter, and angrier. “I'm right! You're going to fail, and everything you love will be nothing but ASH!”
Evirea's lips twitched upwards into a smirk, and she dug in deeper, letting the claw tear soft flesh and twisting. “Fuck you,” she rasped.
The image burst into nothingness, and she stumbled back, tripping and holding her aching hand. Tears stung her eyes, but she banished them, drawing in a hissing breath through her teeth. She didn't have much more time. She knew that. But she had to keep her promise to a child, before the madness consumed her entirely.
Tripping her way back to the table, she tipped the chair up again, and once more, continued to write.
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[Keeping this place for a post regarding what happened with the exchange of suilaika, got some stuff to clear up first though]
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[space reserved for whisper]