[RP] Behind Sealed Doors...

[Kieve]

Whispered rumors pass through the halls of the Eagle Bronze Doors fortress. Tales of misery and death - whole settlements in the Labyrinth destroyed, every living thing turned to ash. And worst of all, that the darkness itself is responsible.

The rumors are dismissed - a military fortification cannot abide such idle chatter. And whoever heard of a shadow that consumes all?

That was, until the screams could be heard through the doors. The nameless horror draws closer.

(17:45:02) Sadenease nods to Anumesa, looking worried.
(17:45:58) Anumesa smiles "Whats wrong?"
(17:46:35) Sadenease tries to calm her breathing, "...heard screams.."
(17:46:47) Anumesa's eyes widen "Where?"
(17:49:01) Sadenease takes a few deep breaths. "...eagle...fort...fortress..."
(17:49:29) Zwenze says: "You heard eagle screams at the fortress?"
(17:49:38) Anumesa sighs and shakes her head "I really shouldnt be doing this....if there are people in trouble then lets go"
(17:50:00) Sadenease shakes her head, "...no no....not eagles...people and guards shouting..."
(17:50:36) Anumesa opens her pack and pulls out a platemail shirt, tugging it over her torso with a bit of difficulty
(17:50:48) Zwenze says: "And they guards there need the reinformenct from the guards here"?
(17:51:17) Sadenease looks worridly at Anumesa. "...ran back to get help..."
(17:51:37) Anumesa says: Ill come
(17:51:53) Anumesa laughs "Just dont tell my husband im fighting, eh?"
(17:52:23) Zwenze eyes Sadenease : "Tell us all you know" and check his armor
(17:53:13) Sadenease nods slowly, "...will go with..." she looks around the crowd "...had dropped off deliverry....was leaving and heard screaming.." her ears lower "....lots of screaming...guards yelling...ran straight here...."
(17:54:36) Zwenze says: "That sounds serious. Unfortunatly the guards had an celebration at Kada els last night. They wont help much today. I can offer myy help. "
(17:55:19) Sadenease nods and looks around "....will need all help can get...."
(17:55:36) Anumesa says: Zwenze, will your guildies help?
(17:55:56) Knipart says: I will do
(17:56:08) Zwenze looks at Thoraro and Knipart : "Can you get all hammers you can find here?"
(17:56:17) Akashani says: do you need my help?
(17:56:22) Thoraro says: yes Zwenze
(17:56:36) Knipart says: At your command.
(17:56:39) >Akashani stands up.
(17:56:39) Anumesa grins "Akashani, your help would be wonderful"
(17:56:56) Yanlora says: I'll come too..
(17:57:05) Anumesa nods "Great...anyone else?"
(17:57:10) Yanlora says: Unless you mind?
(17:57:14) Akashani grins "okay then i'll help you"
(17:57:16) Anumesa says: Of course not!
(17:57:34) Yanlora says: I need a little moment though..
(17:58:27) Sadenease glances worridly at Anumesa.
(17:59:16) Zwenze looks at Sadenease : "My name is Zwenze and if you can wait a few moments, more dwarfs will arrive."
(17:59:24) Anumesa looks at everyone and gives Sadenease a quick smile
(17:59:52) Sadenease nods and returns Anumesa's smile, "...be careful..."
(17:59:56) Yanlora says: Ready to go..
(18:00:32) Anumesa gives a short humorless laugh "Ill use magic..alright? Wont even get close enough to get hit...they will be fine"
(18:01:17) >Akashani grabs hold of Anumesa Cyre and begins to dance.
(18:01:19) Zwenze makes execises to prepare for an eventual battle
(18:02:38) Anumesa winces and passes a hand across her torso "It would help if they didnt kick while im wearing platemail however.."
(18:03:09) Yanlora looks at Anumesa
(18:03:19) Sadenease fidgets and looks around.
(18:03:56) Zwenze says: Brodrs, do you know where the reinforcment is?
(18:04:06) >Yanlora Kithbeth pokes Anumesa Cyre.
(18:04:12) Knipart says: Brought some Backup
(18:04:18) Anumesa says: hmmm?
(18:04:19) >Rheos salutes Zwenze Whitebearded with respect.
(18:04:24) >Zwenze Whitebearded makes a bow to Rheos.
(18:04:25) >Akashani laughs heartily at Didle Sisisix.
(18:04:32) >Raoni Naneipa waves at Zwenze Whitebearded
(18:05:12) Sadenease looks at crowd.
(18:05:12) >Akashani takes a seat.
(18:05:13) >Akashani stands up.
(18:05:14) >Akashani takes a seat.
(18:05:16) Sadenease says: the*
(18:05:42) Myl says: Howedy
(18:05:43) >Knipart Thorsdir greets Myl Toph.
(18:05:43) >Thoraro Vuhilos greets Myl Toph.
(18:05:47) Zwenze says: The hammers are ready.
(18:05:51) >Zwenze Whitebearded greets Myl Toph.
(18:06:03) Akashani chuckles "now i can see the same as i would be a dwarf"
(18:06:10) >Myl Toph greets everyone.
(18:06:16) >Myl Toph raises a drink to the air before gulping it down. Cheers!
(18:06:18) Anumesa giggles
(18:06:21) Sadenease looks to Zwenze and Anumesa, "...go now?"
(18:06:30) Rheos nudges Akashani with his boot
(18:06:40) Akashani says: ouch
(18:06:41) Anumesa says: lets go then
(18:06:47) >Akashani stands up.
(18:06:53) >Akashani makes a bow to Rheos.
(18:07:05) Zwenze says: We are ready
(18:07:54) Sadenease waves.
(18:08:48) Pheoniceous says: hmm... what is going on over here?
(18:09:30) Anumesa nods to Sadenease "Are we going?"
(18:09:36) Sadenease nods.
(18:18:12) Fesek pokes Raoni
(18:20:24) >Akashani stands up.
(18:20:30) Raoni points Fesek "YOU !"
(18:22:29) Fesek manhugs Raoni
(18:27:56) Sadenease chuckles.

[After a great deal of running and OOC chatter, the group reaches the Eagle Bronze Doors...]

(18:36:44) Unidentified shouts: BLESSED LAANX! HELP ME! HELP!!!!
(18:38:03) Unidentified shouts: Run! Don't let it touch you!
(18:39:13) Unidentified shouts: GET IT OFF ME!!!
(18:40:31) Unidentified shouts: AAAGGGHHH!!!!
(18:40:38) >Anumesa Cyre greets Grunn.
(18:40:46) Sadenease sniffs.
(18:40:49) >Yanlora Kithbeth greets Grunn.
(18:40:57) >Akashani greets Grunn.
(18:40:58) Grunn says: Someone needs aid, and I can not fine him.
(18:41:09) Unidentified shouts: KEEP BACK! DON'T LET IT NEAR YOU!
(18:41:15) Zwenze says: SOmeone?
(18:41:20) Grunn says: There are too many echos in here.
(18:41:25) Anumesa's eyes widen
(18:41:51) Grunn shouts: Where are you, sir?
(18:41:54) Sadenease tilts her head, listening. "...voice from earlier...shouting..."
(18:42:16) Unidentified shouts: THE DOORS! KEEP THE DOORS SEALED! DON'T LET IT OUT!
(18:42:30) Grunn says: The voice is closer on this side.
(18:42:33) Anumesa gives a half smile "Well if they are still shouting...then they are still alive"
(18:42:58) Zwenze shouts: Help is coming
(18:43:30) Grunn says: My skills are weak, but I will aid where I can.
(18:43:43) Unidentified shouts: NO! GET BACK! SAVE YOURSELF!
(18:44:18) Grunn shouts: Honor will not let me fall back.
(18:44:40) Sadenease looks around.
(18:44:54) Mirkov says: my swords at your service
(18:44:57) Knipart claspes his axes nervouslxy
(18:45:03) Knipart says: *nervously
(18:45:07) Unidentified shouts: IT'S....
(18:45:17) Zwenze's swords are ready and I am prepared
(18:45:27) Grunn shouts: Where are you?
(18:45:41) Rheos says: What are your orders guildmaster?
(18:46:02) Mirkov says: tis be the fiight worth a song
(18:46:07) Zwenze says: The group needs to agree on how to proceed
(18:46:13) Grunn shouts: He is up there!
(18:46:27) Unidentified shouts: KEEP THE DOORS SEALED! ALL OF YOU, IT'LL KILL EVERYTHING!
(18:46:37) Grunn shouts: Stay there! We will aid you!
(18:46:58) Yanlora says: Maybe we should listen to that brave pal..
(18:47:01) Anumesa frowns "How on earth did he get up there?"
(18:47:09) Zwenze shouts: What do you propose? We cant wait here like cowards.
(18:47:14) Yanlora says: On the other hand..

[The body of an unidentified Ylian falls from above]

(18:47:20) Grunn looks shocked.
(18:47:27) Grunn says: Something pushed him!
(18:47:33) Anumesa tugs a glyph from the pack at her side and runs toward the speaker
(18:47:42) Yanlora says: Not going there is delaying the trouble..
(18:48:09) Mirkov says: we should not hesitate
(18:48:28) >Yanlora Kithbeth greets Unidentified Speaker.
(18:48:40) Anumesa says: Should we climb up there??
(18:48:42) Knipart says: This does not look good.
(18:48:44) Zwenze says: "ARe you allright Sir?"
(18:48:49) Grunn says: Is he.... alive?
(18:48:50) Anumesa looks up and swallows hard
(18:49:06) Yanlora says: I doubt he'll still answer..
(18:49:08) Unidentified's hand twitches slightly, revealing a small note clutched in its grasph
(18:49:19) Mirkov frowns
(18:49:28) Yanlora grabs the note
(18:49:37) Knipart says: What does is say?
(18:50:25) Zwenze says: Yan, what does the note say?
(18:50:26) Thoraro looks up "Rheos how did you get up there?"
(18:51:55) Unidentified's note reads simply "Beware - the shadows are alive. And they feed upon you."

(18:52:05) Thoraro says: Nice climb Rheos
(18:52:15) Yanlora hands around the note..
(18:52:21) Anumesa frowns and runs a hand across her stomach "Feeds?"
(18:52:27) Mirkov grips his sabres firmly
(18:52:48) Unidentified's body appears dessicated - drained of life, skin brittle and cold as ice.
(18:52:51) Rheos starts peering into the shadows
(18:52:57) Anumesa says: erm...id rather not be fed upon, if you know what i mean
(18:52:58) Mirkov says: we shall not fear the shadows
(18:53:02) Yanlora says: You should go home Anumesa
(18:53:03) Zwenze shouts: "Feed me you cursed shadows and i light a torch and kill you, you lightless shadows"
(18:53:06) Sadenease shivers.
(18:53:17) Anumesa says: I should.
(18:53:23) Anumesa says: What about all of you though?
(18:53:36) Sadenease moves to stand near Anumesa, watching around them.
(18:53:38) Unidentified's body crumbles to ash.
(18:53:22) Yanlora says: You got a kid to take care eh?
(18:53:51) Rheos says: Dwarves do not fear the darkness!
(18:53:55) Thoraro bits his lip
(18:53:56) Knipart says: What does the Note say?
(18:54:29) Mirkov says: and we shall stand to fight the shadows
(18:54:30) Anumesa frowns but says nothing
(18:54:36) Grunn says: Who pushed him?
(18:55:02) Sadenease looks up the hill.
(18:55:06) Yanlora says: I don't know if I want to know..
(18:55:06) Zwenze says: The note says: "Beware - the shadoes are alive. And the feed upon you."
(18:55:17) Knipart says: Oh.
(18:56:01) Knipart says: And now what?
(18:56:05) Thoraro looks up " are we going up there?"
(18:56:09) Anumesa says: We climb?
(18:57:07) Anumesa says: Sade?
(18:57:16) Anumesa says: Do you have anything to defend yourself with?
(18:57:50) Sadenease nods eyeing Thoryte.
(18:57:52) Mirkov says: we should seek the threat
(18:58:05) Thoryte looks cautiously at the ashes.... "I was under the assumption that a corpse passed on whole to Dakkru's realm?"
(18:59:56) Sadenease approaches Thoryte slowly.
(19:00:22) Yanlora looks at Thoryte a little bored "And you might be?"
(19:00:47) Thoryte looks up. "Thoryte. I heard screaming, and was curious about its nature."
(19:00:55) Yanlora sheathes her Sabres
(19:01:23) Mirkov says: we should not believe so easily
(19:01:25) Yanlora says: Well.. obviously someone died?
(19:01:45) Grunn shouts: I do not see anyone.
(19:01:59) Thoryte eyes the ashes again. "So I see... and yet they did not pass on whole. True death, perhaps...?"
(19:03:48) Thoryte says: Did they say anything...? Pass on a message? Or simply die?
(19:04:14) Yanlora says: Who got that paper?
(19:04:22) Yanlora looks around..
(19:04:22) Thoryte says: Paper?
(19:05:13) Yanlora says: Thanks..
(19:27:43) Thoryte looks to Yanlora. "There was a paper...? What did it say?"
(19:27:49) Yanlora says: the darn thing reads: 'Beware- the shadows are aliv. And they feed upon you'
(19:27:58) Yanlora says: *alive
(19:28:33) Anumesa shivers and looks around
(19:29:22) >Myl Toph takes a seat.
(19:30:01) Thoryte arches a thick brow in wonderment. "A shadow... feeding?" He shakes his head. "It makes no sense - but that fellow's body did appear drained."
(19:30:04) Zwenze says: "Gah. Shadows, Give me a torch and I will light out those shadows."
(19:30:46) Yanlora says: Torch eh?
(19:31:01) Thoryte nods to Zwenze. "Torches - and perhaps crystal lights - these might be useful."
(19:31:02) Mirkov says: my sabre will give them some light
(19:31:05) Yanlora loosend the shield on her back
(19:31:20) Myl says: by now my breathe might be flammable
(19:31:21) Zwenze says: "Or my wand. Come here shadows, and I teach you what light is"
(19:32:26) Yanlora looks at Thoryte "Anyways.. he came from up there *points up the approperiate hill*
(19:32:35) >Myl Toph stands up.
(19:33:12) Mirkov kneels and prays"my fair swords be blessed wit the light of crystal to send the shadows to where they belong"
(19:33:36) Thoryte looks upwards. "Odd..." He turns his gaze to the near fortress tower. "Perhaps the guards here know more. I will speak with them, and see if anything further can be learned."
(19:34:06) Zwenze looks at his dwarven brodrs: LEts follow this Kran
(19:34:34) Mirkov says: where did he go Master?
(19:34:41) Thoryte says: ...until we know more, there is little else to be done.
(19:34:55) >Zwenze Whitebearded raises an arm and points towards Thoryte Urion.
(19:35:12) Knipart mumbles to Zwenze: Dare we trust this fellow?
(19:35:40) Thoraro says: i think we have no choice
(19:35:45) Zwenze eyes Knipart : "No. But it cannot hurt following him"
(19:35:48) Mirkov turns to master "we should not believe so easily"
(19:36:04) Myl says: I did not come all this way do not beat something/body up
(19:36:22) Zwenze eyes Mirkov : "After all this is the fortress. If this isn't a save place Hydlaa and Kada els are doomed"
(19:36:37) Knipart says: And with it the Beer.
(19:36:45) Rheos trembles at the thought of the beer being doomed
(19:36:48) Myl says: ah yes, the beer
(19:36:58) Myl says: will no one save the beer?
(19:37:00) Thoryte looks to Zwenze again. "Then you must carry word back. Torches, crystals - light. Warn Hydlaa of the danger.
(19:37:04) Mirkov hides his face in his hands "not the beer"
(19:37:41) Zwenze looks at Thoryte : "And then? Hydlla is habitated with lazy guards and arrogant octarchs. I can better serve here"
(19:37:42) Thoryte nods solemnly to those gathered. "And all of you, be wary of the darnkess. I sense this is only the beginning of things to come."

[Duraza]

[Hmmm......I already have an idea of where this is going]

[Suno_Regin]

[Can't way to get in on this. ]

[Kieve]

[This is still going on - culminates Saturday in Ojaveda]

(22:55:07) Hangyira says: Sorry... has been rough lately. Guards always questioning... asking things...
(22:55:08) Anumesa nods to Perlan "She will take my ale" she raises her mug and laughs "I am quite happy with my cider"
(22:55:20) Kenzel says: Here...you can have one of mine as well
(22:55:28) Hangyira shudders. "Too many questions about things best forgot."
(22:55:47) >Perlan gave Hangyira 2 Beer Mugs.
(22:55:53) Anumesa looks sharply at Hangyira "What about guards?"
(22:56:20) Hangyira smiles slightly, and thanks Perlan, Kenzel, and Anumesa.
(22:56:28) Hangyira says: Guards... at Eagle fortress.
(22:56:40) Perlan says: cheers, friends
(22:56:58) Hangyira says: T-they kept me there, asking. Wanted to know about...
(22:57:06) Hangyira shivvers again, and takes a long swig of ale.
(22:57:11) >Kenzel Cyre raises a drink to the air before gulping it down. Cheers!
(22:58:26) Kenzel says: Wanted to know about what?
(22:58:36) Hangyira gulps.
(22:58:39) Anumesa looks down at Hangyira and smiles gently, trying to hide the worry in her eyes "What about the Bronze Doors"
(22:59:04) Hangyira says: Wanted to know about a dead Ylian.
(22:59:11) Hangyira says: Well...
(22:59:16) Hangyira shuffles anxiously.
(22:59:18) Perlan says: hey masoj.. have a beer
(22:59:30) Kenzel says: Go on...
(22:59:31) Hangyira says: They wanted to know about a lot of dead folk, not just the Ylian.
(22:59:52) Anumesa says: There were MORE?
(23:00:04) Hangyira says: Lots. All dead, now.
(23:00:07) Masoj says: Thank you!
(23:00:11) >Masoj Foret smiles at Perlan Cernun
(23:00:24) Kenzel looks concerned "Lots of dead?"
(23:00:25) Perlan says: sure thing, ,masoj
(23:00:37) Perlan says: was it during the invasion?
(23:00:44) Hangyira says: Me and Dranesh - that was his name, Dranesh - were the only ones who made it out of the settlement.
(23:00:59) Hangyira shudders again, closing her eyes.
(23:01:01) Hangyira says: The rest...
(23:01:09) Hangyira says: IT killed them.
(23:01:17) Perlan says: IT ?
(23:01:18) Kenzel says: Dead? What killed them?
(23:01:26) Hangyira sobs.
(23:01:29) Anumesa shakes her head silently and tucks a piece of hair behind her ear "I was just there...and i think i met the Ylian..well the dead Ylian that is"
(23:01:29) Hangyira says: I don't know!
(23:01:49) Anumesa says: We couldnt find anything
(23:01:50) Hangyira says: Raithen, Polyuntri, all of them - they all wanted to know the same thing.
(23:01:52) Kenzel says: You were where, Anumesa?
(23:02:10) Hangyira says: "WHAT killed them?" they ask... I-I don't know...
(23:02:14) Anumesa swallows "Erm...Eagle Bronze Doors...Sade was there and heard screams so she came for help and i went..."
(23:02:38) Perlan listens with ears pointed
(23:02:51) Kenzel says: You went...where?
(23:03:10) Anumesa says: To BD
(23:03:24) Hangyira looks from Kenzel to Anumesa, and back.
(23:03:26) Anumesa says: Sade came up to me in Hydlaa and led me and some others there
(23:03:39) Kenzel says: When was this?
(23:03:40) Hangyira says: Best to stay away from the place. Bad things happening up there now.
(23:03:55) Anumesa says: Only a few nights ago
(23:04:08) Kenzel looks very concerned "What kinds of bad things?"
(23:04:21) Hangyira says: IT wants out...
(23:04:35) Perlan says: i feel anothe eclpise coming
(23:04:42) Perlan says: i just feel it
(23:04:44) Kenzel says: Out of the Bronze Doors?
(23:04:46) Hangyira says: I don't know what it is... I don't. But it LOOKED like a Klyros. Kind of.
(23:05:12) Hangyira says: Yes. In the Stone Labyrinth. That was our settlement - the one closest to the Eagle doors.
(23:05:15) Anumesa says: Well..Hopefully the guards there can handle it
(23:05:35) Hangyira shakes her head, and the rest of her trembles as well.
(23:05:43) Hangyira says: They can't. Blades don't hurt it - we tried.
(23:06:07) Hangyira says: Magic works. A bit.
(23:06:15) Hangyira says: It hates the Crystal Way.
(23:06:15) Kenzel says: And magic? Did you try magic as well?
(23:38:46) Hangyira looks at her mug. "...what was I saying...?"
(23:39:04) Anumesa sets her mug on the bar "About being questioned?"
(23:39:32) Hangyira looks up.
(23:39:56) Hangyira says: Yes. Raithen, Polyuntri... others.
(23:40:29) Hangyira says: I tried to tell them - looked like a Klyros. But black - all black, with thin shards of blue for eyes.
(23:40:51) Hangyira says: But that's not right either.
(23:41:13) Anumesa says: You said magic can hit it?
(23:41:14) Hangyira sighs, staring at the mug and swishing her ale around.
(23:41:51) Hangyira says: Oh! Crystal. It HATES Crystal way - made the most awful noise when it took an energy arrow
(23:43:07) Anumesa frowns and twists the handle of her mug indecisively "So you need crystal way mages?"
(23:43:46) Hangyira says: ...Maybe. They didn't exactly slow it down, any. And since swords can't hurt it, nothing to slow it down and keep it away from the mages.
(23:44:25) Hangyira says: It just...flowed from one to the next, draining them dry.
(23:44:39) Anumesa says: wait, more then one?
(23:44:43) Kozr says: Hello
(23:44:55) Anumesa nods curtly "Hello"
(23:45:00) Hangyira shakes her head, and looks up fearfully at the Klyros.
(23:45:09) Hangyira says: No, only the one.
(23:47:28) Anumesa frowns and rubs her chin with a hand "What should we do?"
(23:49:24) Hangyira finishes the ale and shrugs, looking spent. "What can anyone do? It's... monstrous. And hungry. Maybe, it will feed and go back."
(23:50:02) Hangyira says: ...I don't really believe that. But I can hope.
(23:50:16) Anumesa says: Have the guard had ANY success at all?
(23:50:41) Hangyira says: The doors are still shut. And as far as anyone knows, it's still on the other side.
(23:51:16) Hangyira says: Is that success? If it stays there, until the crystal fades and shatters?
(23:51:42) Anumesa says: If its not able to hurt anyone then why not?
(23:53:12) Hangyira sets her mug aside.
(23:54:17) Hangyira says: Why not? No... if it DOES stay sealed away, if the Eagle Bronze Doors never open...
(23:54:26) Hangyira says: No cause for worry, right?
(23:54:44) Hangyira shivvers. "But I don't believe it will stay sealed."
(23:56:31) Anumesa runs a hand through her hair and sighs "Very well then, what shall we do?"
(23:56:46) Hangyira cusses in a most un-ladylike fashion.
(23:57:12) Anumesa blinks and takes a sip of cider
(23:57:15) Hangyira says: I-I don't know. I'm jumping at shadows all the time - everything that moves spooks me. This is no way to live.
(23:57:49) Anumesa says: I know several people that might be able to help
(23:58:29) Hangyira looks at Anumesa with interest
(23:58:33) Hangyira says: Tell me of them?
(23:59:29) Anumesa says: Well there is another dwarf named Zwenze who is very skiled in Crystal Way
(00:01:20) Hangyira says: ...a start, at least.
(00:01:27) Anumesa says: If i can find Sade maybe she can help too
(00:02:29) Hangyira says: Sade? Who is Sade?
(00:02:46) >Zwenze Whitebearded greets Anumesa Cyre.
(00:02:49) Hangyira glances nervously at the dwarf behind her.
(00:02:54) >Anumesa Cyre greets Zwenze Whitebearded.
(00:03:06) Zwenze says: Dovoy
(00:03:09) Anumesa grins "This is the dwarf i was talking about, meet Zwenze"
(00:03:21) Hangyira says: Oh!
(00:03:26) Hangyira smiles.
(00:03:39) Sadenease waves polietly to Anumesa as she passes by.
(00:03:47) Hangyira says: Pleased to meet you Zwenze. This lady here says you know the Crystal way?
(00:03:52) Anumesa giggles and waves to Sadenease "Heya"
(00:04:02) Anumesa says: This dwarf needs our help
(00:04:09) Zwenze nows: "Zwenze Whotebearded is my name. And I know the crystal way"
(00:04:22) Sadenease heads closer to listen.
(00:04:25) Hangyira claps. "Perfect!"
(00:04:55) Zwenze eyes Hangyira : "May I know your name?"
(00:05:55) Hangyira says: Oh! Forgive me, sir Zwenze. Call me Nira - all my friends..." her face falls. "...well, they did..."
(00:06:11) Hangyira looks to Sadenease, then at Anumesa
(00:06:25) Hangyira says: Is this... that other one you said? The Sade?
(00:06:25) Zwenze says: "They did? What happened? "
(00:06:29) Anumesa nods "Well Nira could you explain to them what you told me?"
(00:07:29) Sadenease looks curiously between Anumesa and Hangyira.
(00:07:47) Hangyira briefly recalls her story - a pitch-black figure resembling a Klyros, that slaughtered the Stone Labyrinth settlement that was her home.
(00:08:20) Hangyira says: ...and the Eagle Bronze Doors guards have been questioning me about it for days on end.
(00:08:25) Hangyira hangs her head.
(00:08:32) Anumesa smiles at Sade "Do you perhaps know any crystal way magic?"
(00:08:33) Hangyira says: They let me go when I had no more left to tell them.
(00:08:56) Sadenease shakes her head, "Kieve magic."
(00:09:29) Hangyira looks interested again. "Kieve? Who is that? Can they help too?"
(00:09:54) >Zwenze Whitebearded greets Firarn Brimmstone.
(00:10:00) Sadenease glances worridly at Hangyira, "..maybe.."
(00:10:37) Anumesa frowns and shakes her head "Im not sure where Kieve is though"
(00:10:52) Zwenze bows deeply to Firarn: Thank you
(00:11:12) Firarn says: Take your time with the book. Use it at your leisure
(00:11:20) Sadenease frowns, her ears lowering, "...not seen in days..."
(00:11:37) >Firarn Brimmstone greets everyone.
(00:11:39) Zwenze says: I will, Firarn , thank you
(00:13:05) Hangyira looks around.
(00:13:17) Zwenze says: Nira, this dark Klyros, where did it came from?
(00:13:55) Hangyira says: From...? Don't know. Out of the darkness, I suppose.
(00:14:16) Hangyira says: It's still in the Labyrinth, I think.
(00:14:19) Hangyira says: Behind the doors.
(00:14:20) Anumesa says: Last i heard, Kieve left Hydlaa....
(00:14:34) Anumesa says: I had to leave suddenly, i never got to ask where he was going
(00:14:52) Hangyira looks at Anumesa. "Is it not safe here?"
(00:14:56) Sadenease glances briefly at Anumesa but settles her gaze on Hangyira, "How get away?"
(00:15:06) Zwenze says: "Hmm, maybe we should go for a hunt then?"
(00:16:01) Hangyira looks upset. "I ran. So did the Ylian I was with."
(00:16:05) Hangyira says: He didn't make it.
(00:16:16) Anumesa nods slowly "We found him.."
(00:17:12) Hangyira repeats her question.
(00:17:18) Hangyira says: Isn't it safe here? In the city?
(00:17:32) Hangyira says: I saw the notice. Why would anyone leave?
(00:17:48) Anumesa says: Its safe here
(00:17:51) Anumesa says: He had other problems
(00:17:59) Zwenze says: "Safe is relative. You are relative safe here"
(00:18:15) Hangyira nods slowly.
(00:18:15) Sadenease nods to Zwenze.
(00:18:41) Hangyira says: I suppose... it would be best to stay then. While it's safe.
(00:18:58) Hangyira looks at Zwenze.
(00:19:23) Hangyira says: I heard you mention a book to... that other fellow. Is there a place nearby where one can buy books?
(00:19:54) Zwenze nods: "You had to go through a lot the past days. I dont want you to handle more. Stay here in tavern and take a room. I will speak with Allelia and pay the bill"
(00:20:20) Zwenze says: "And for books, ask Jayose. He has lot of books"
(00:20:34) Hangyira beams. "How kind of you, sir Zwenze!"
(00:20:57) Hangyira moves as if to hug him, and stops herself.
(00:21:08) Anumesa giggles
(00:21:10) Hangyira says: Well... thank you. Thank you very much.
(00:21:10) Zwenze says a bit louder "Hey Allelia" and makes gestures that he will pay Hangyira's bill
(00:21:53) Hangyira says: Jayose... Is he nearby? I should find him.
(00:22:03) Hangyira says: I have a lot to write down.
(00:22:19) Zwenze says: "He can be found in Hydlaa east. You know where that is?"
(00:22:27) Hangyira shakes her head.
(00:22:36) Hangyira says: I only just arrived in the city a little while ago.
(00:23:01) Hangyira says: The guards said "follow the road and run fast" and I did. Didn't stop until I reached the gates.
(00:23:05) Zwenze looks at Anumesa and Sadenease : "Would you mind if I show her the way?"
(00:23:16) Anumesa shrugs and sips her cider "Go ahead"
(00:23:22) Sadenease shakes her head.
(00:23:24) >Liadan greets everyone.
(00:23:33) Zwenze says: "Nira, follow me."
(00:23:42) Sadenease nods to Liadan.
(00:23:47) >Zwenze Whitebearded motions to Hangyira Peirse to follow.
(00:24:01) Hangyira nods to Sadenease and Anumesa. "Pleasure meeting you both. Farewell!"

[Kieve]

[In deferrence to the recent trend of posting in story-form, these are the final chapters of this RP event rewritten - some small liberties have been taken for continuity, but are more or less true to the logs, which are available on request.]

...after residing at Kada-El's for several days, the Hammerweilder dwarf Hangyira Peirse - the last survivor of the Stone Labyrinth settlement closest to the Eagle Bronze Doors - makes he way cautiously down the steps...

Hangyira looks around, appearing jumpy and frightened. "They're moving," she whispers, then louder - "Can you see them moving?" She holds her head in her hands and cries out, "Make them stop!" In her vision, the small shadows from the candle light become twisted, writhing monstrosities. She shrinks back against the stairwell railing, while below Anumesa Cyre hears her outcry and recognizes the voice.

"Hangyira?" The Dermorian runs upstairs, accompanied by others Hangyira does not recognize. She kneels beside the cringing dwarf. "What's wrong?"

Hangyira looks up, terrified. "No, keep away... they move," she whimpers. "They're alive. Hungry."

Anumesa frowns. "Who moves?"

"Shadows," Hangyira babbles, almost incoherrent. "...Was right to fear..." She seems to shrink into herself, overcome with terror. "It came through. Maybe that very night. Should never..." she trails off, staring at the doorway. "Should never have stayed here." Her unease only increases as she draws attention. Around her, others look on in concern, or curiosity.

"At the fortress?" Anumesa asks, though she already knows the answer. Beside her, Meredee looks almost as confused and frightened. She whispers to Anumesa.

"Do you know her?" The Dermorian woman simply nods, her eyes not straying from the  huddled dwarf. On the far railing, Anarkia looks on at the display with derision.

"Dwarf, if you're gonna keep on bein' mysterious like this, then leave; otherwise, we don't need to hear this [stuff]."

In answer, Hangyira draws out a small book and tosses it on a nearby table - Meredee opens it and quickly scans the pages. The first entries are pleasant, hopeful, but as Hangyira's record of her days continues it swiftly becomes apparent that she's lost her mind. The final entry is mostly scribbles, with the most notable words being "Shadow," "Blue Way," and "pl....... metal." Hangyira glares at Anarkia, but has no stomach for confrontation and the fire leaves her eyes. "IT. I don't know - I've never known. Been over this. Call it a shadow, that's all it is, but for the murder."

Anumesa tries to reassure Hangyira. "Look outside! Nothing has changed. It's fine, perhaps only a nightmare?"

"Maybe you should have some sleep?" Meredee adds shyly.

Hangyira looks even more troubled, if at all possible. "No...sleep lets the darkness come. It followed me - I know it did. Followed here... or worse?"

Meredee asks, "What's 'IT'?" But as before, Hangyira has no solid answer to the question.

"A thing without a name, that feeds on life. I don't know what else to call it." She looks up at Anumesa, on the verge of tears. "You can't see them moving? Feel it waiting?" She sighs, trembling, and eyes the door again. "I will leave - maybe to Ojaveda, maybe further. If it follows me, so be it."

Meredee finishes her examination of the book. "Oh, this one... the black Klyros-like creature?"

Hangyira says nothing for a long moment, just looking at those around her. At last, she stands. "I won't trouble you with my insanity. Find me in Akkaio if you ever need a mad dwarf to converse with." Before anyone can stop her, she runs from the tavern, and makes her way rapidly through Hydlaa to the gates. Her short legs hamper her speed, however, and a Nolthrir catches up with her just outside the city. He dodges swiftly in front of her, blocking the Hammerweilder's path, while behind Anumesa, Salona, and Meredee catch up.

"Hangyira?" Anumesa says, panting slightly, "Running won't solve anything."

"D...don't stop me... must go!" the dwarf answers, near panic. She looks from one side of Fesek to the other, seeking an escape route. The Nolthrir opens his mouth as if to say something, but closes it again.

"Why don't you explain what's going on?" Anumesa insists.

Meredee adds, "Just stop, don't run away. You're safe here with us."

A tremor takes over Hangyira and she falls to her knees, blood mixing with bile as she vomits. "No... no, no no no no," she shudders, staring at the ground. "It... it was always...?" She drags herself to her feet and runs again, but Anumesa and Meredee catch her easily, placing their hands on her shoulders. "No! ....shouldn't.... dangerous..." The dwarf cringes away from their contact.

"Look, you're safe with us!" Meredee insists. Silently, Fesek nods his emphasis. "We're all good warriors, when this bad shadow would come here we would kill it easily!"

Anumesa's tone becomes suspicious, however, and a frown creases her face. "Hangyira, did you come in contact with IT when you fled?"

"Did I...? I can't..." Another tremor takes hold of the dwarf's body and she kneels again. A black cloud seems to pass over her face, her eyes going deep black. "Stupid woman. I had her from the very beginning."

"What woman?!" Meredee exclaims.

Beside Meredee, Fesek murmurs, "Posession?" Meredee slowly nods in agreement.

Anumesa meets Hangyira's eyes, demanding to know who speaks, but the fit passes rapidly and the Hammerweilder looks up once more consumed by mortal terror. "Must keep away from me... Please... just let me..."

"What about everyone else?" Anumesa insists. "Clearly something is wrong, why let it get worse?"

Hangyira's voice takes on an otherworldly tone, seeming to echo in the mind as well as the hills around - impossibly deep. "There is no hope for you. For anyone. I will have her, and when I am through the rest of you will perish."

Meredee clings to hope, asking Hangyira, "Could you calm down, look around and think clear for a minute? So that you could explain everything to us?" Next to her, Anumesa puts a hand to her pack, while Fesek crosses his arms. The darkness leaves Hangyira's face again.

"Explain... don't know. No Crystal - Crystal was a lie."

"Crystal is not a lie!" Meredee states plainly. "Look up!" Instead, the dwarf twists as if struck and falls limply to the ground.

But Anumesa recalls a previous talk with Hangyira and thumbs open the dwarf's journal to its last scrawled entry. "Blue Way, then?"

Hangyira slowly lifts her head, eyes black as coal, and glares up at Anumesa. Small ice-blue pinpricks glow in her pupils. "You will be first, elf." Another tremor runs through her as Hangyira fights off the dark presence and pulls herself to her feet. "...no... will not harm her," she mumbles firmly. "Not harm anyone!" The others react predictably, gripping weapons, or in Anumesa's case, a glyphstone.

Salona speaks at last, glaring at Hangyira in frustration. "Stop speaking in riddles. What is it you are trying to tell us?"

Hangyira looks from Fesek to Meredee to Salona, resting an obsidian gaze on the Enkidukai woman. "So she can tell you more? Fine. I shall humor you, kitten." The dwarf twitches slightly, but Hangyira barely has strength to fight down the other within her and it shows.

"Two inhabit that body methinks," Fesek says quietly to Meredee.

"Your energy is delicious Far more so than this dwarf who was raised in the darkness of the Stone Labyrinth." Hangyira turns her posessed gaze to Fesek. "Astute, fish-elf," the presence adds, complimenting and deriding him in the same breath. "Very astute." The dwarf coughs up more blood, and the fit passes once more. She turns, fleeing again for Ojaveda, and is again stopped. Fesek stands with blades drawn, and she eyes them desperately. "Yes... do... better to die... that way..."

Meredee whispers something in Fesek's ear, but he does not yet lower his blades and Hangyira loses control. She takes a few steps forward, placing herself directly in front of the Nolthrir and stares up at him, imposing despite her small stature. "Perhaps I was wrong. Perhaps YOU should be the first. But I am not yet done with Hangyira." She throws her head back, laughing, and booms out, "You will all know my true name soon enough. It will hiss coldly between your lips as you die."

Hangyira shudders, looks in terror at them all, and bolts for the gates of Akkaio, not stopping until she stands before Brado's establishment. Outside, Farren, Anarkia, and Saiix stand - behind her, Fesek, Anumesa, Meredee, and Salona arrive hot on her heels. She looks up, meeting Meredee's eyes, and looks confused. "He... we... ran all the way here?" Before anyone can answer, she gives a wet cough, a black inky fluid mixing with the blood that leaks from the corner of her mouth.

"Anarkia?" Farren asks, "What is going on here?" The Clamod simply shrugs.

Meredee leans close to Fesek and whispers something else inaudible - apparently giving him permission to speak, as he finally says aloud, "Okay." The dark presence in Hangyira speaks again, its deep voice chilling the air.

"This wretch's energy is all but spent. Perhaps it is time you saw me for what I truly am."

"What are you telling us?" Meredee blinks in surprise. The dwarf gives a horrid, gurgling laugh, more inky fluid bubbling from her lips.

"That this shell is worthless to me now." She strides boldly through the doorway into The Broken Door and enters the small kitchen at the back. "Ah, darkness," she says, revelling in the shade, "Much better." The others follow, and Meredee takes Hangyira's hand, but the dwarf shakes her off. "Step away, fool. You cannot help her now. There IS nothing left of her."

"Meredee, come away," Fesek asks - whe she doesn't move he says more firmly, "Get over here." Still, she refuses to step back.

"Somebody help me!" she cries out, gripping the dwarf's hand tightly. Hangyira falls to the floor like a marionette with her strings cut.

"...kill... please..." she gasps out.

Those nearby watch with apprehension.
"I think she wants to kill herself!"
"What's wrong with her?"
"And everyone else."
"I'd say she wants death."
"A'ight." Anarkia draws forth her claymore.

Hangyira shudders and lies still. Black smoke begins pooling around her body, writhing across the floor like a thing alive.

"She isn't in control, is it not obvious?" Fesek states, while Anumesa and Meredee back away from the dwarf. "And I think we should have listened." The smoke thickens around the prone figure, and he adds, "It's... too late."

Saiix blinks, a slight grin on his face, muttering lowly "...maybe coming here was a good idea after all..."

"What's this smoke?!" Meredee exclaims. "Fesek! Use your water glyph on her now."

An ethereal, echoing laugh fills the room, seeming to speak from inside the bystanders' heds. "You wished to know what was happening?" it booms. "What awaits you in the Stone Labyrinths the guards watch so closely?" Hangyira's body trembles and the blackness oozes away from it, puddling on the floor a short distance away.

"I don't know if I should," Fesek shivers, replying to Meredee, and begins donning his armor. Nearby, Anumesa has already put on her platemail.

Meredee looks at everyone and shouts, "Why is nobody doing anything to help her?!"

Farren answers calmly, "There is nothing you can do to help her, I think."

"You read the book," Anumesa adds. "We can't use Crystal way."

"Ignore her words," the dark voice booms out again. "Crystal energy is perfect," it laughs. Hangyira's body turns to ash as the last of the black sludge leaves it...

[Kieve]

...con't...

...From the writhing puddle, a humanoid figure rises up. Its arms are unnaturally long, ending in three-fingered claws, and large black spikes twist from its shoulderblades, vaguely resembling folded wings. Its surface is utterly black, making it impossible to tell if the creature is covered with skin, scales, fur, chitin, or something else entirely. The only true features on its body are the narrow ice-blue slits one might call eyes, and a series of odd glowing blue shapes on its largest back-spines that seem reminiscent of runes or sigils - albeit of unknown origin. The figure twists, seeing Fesek's blades drawn at its back, and faces him boldly. "Go ahead, fish-elf," it taunts him. "Try what so many others have. See where it gets you."

Saiix stares curiously at Xathen, a slight grin on his face "I suppose things only get better." He kneels on the ground, rubbing his chin "Now its time to see how this all works out.."

"Fesek! Don't!" Meredee cries out - the Nolthrir puts his blades away and steps back, slipping a hand into his glyph sack. She is close to panic, seeing Fesek isolated on the far side of the kitchen, but he braces himself on a nearby counter and leaps over the black figure.

Anumesa scowls at Saiix. "If you aren't going to help, then beat it... just standing there running a commentary isnt the most brilliant thing you could be doing."

Saiix glances at Anumesa "I'm sorry but I was taught to fight like a mage. I don't just jump at a foe without knowing what I'm up against." Anumesa gives a dry laugh and turns her gaze back to the strange black figure. "Still," Saiix says thoughtfully, "I suppose if no one else is going to do anything..." He pulls a death glyph out of his sack slowly "Let's see how well this will do.."

Xathen eyes Saiix, then looks at the pile of ashes on the floor where Hangyira's body was. "You can join her too, if you wish. But first..."

Saiix frowns, gripping his glyph "Wait a second! I don't care what you are, no one insults me." Xathen ignores him, extending a hand towards Meredee and Fesek. A malicious grin on his face reveals crystaline teeth, needle-sharp.

"Stay away," Fesek advises, then adds with a forced grin, "That's a general statement to everyone about everyone else."

"Why won't we just attack it?!?" Meredee cries out, bordering on hysteria.

The black fog writhing at Xathen's feet curls foward, following his hand towards Fesek. "Oh I shan't need to touch you," he assures them. "No fear of that." The air around him ripples and the fog shrinks back as Saiix raises his glyph, uttering a spell.

"Taste of Death!"

Xathen grunts slightly as the magic stings him. The fog around his feet boils rapidly. "Hrm. No, that energy tastes foul." He flicks his wrist, sending the stream of black smoke across the floor at Saiix. Nearby, Meredee concentrates, casting a spell of Crystal Way magic on Xathen, but it seems only to invigorate him. "Now that," he says, blinking, "is much-" he breaks off, snarling in pain as Fesek aims a Blue Way glyph at the dark figure and fires a blast of ice into his shoulder.

Saiix jumps up to the side near the barrels behind Fesek "So weak agaisnt dark magic?" the mage says of his own work. "How perfect. This can be a real test."

Xathen shakes off the ice spell, and growls at Fesek, "Bah! Enough games. I did not destroy whole towns to be batted about like an enki's plaything." His body melts into a pool of inky black shadow, and flows swiftly over the floor to the dusty road outside. Dark and Blue Way magics ripple through the air behind him as Anumesa and Saiix hurl more spells. He oozes back upwards, taking physical form again and drinking in the daylight. "Ah... the Crystal's light. Delicious." The others rush outside behind him.

"Pfft, people and crystal energy," Saiix grumbles. "Here even the shadows feed on it.."

Xathen lets out an echoing laugh. "You've no idea how good this energy feels, after being caged in darkness for so long."

"Well how about I fix that?" Saiix replies. He and Fesek both level glyphstones at the shadow, uttering "Darkness!" in unison. Meredee reaches to her pouch, also drawing out a glyphstone with the Darkness sigil upon it. But Xathen lifts his long arms to the sky, raising a sheet of blackness skyward that devours the spells.

Anumesa follows the advice of Hangyira's journal. An icy wind lashes out at Xathen, and the shadow trembles. "Now THAT is just uncomfortable," he hisses. The hiss becomes a snarl of pain as Fesek mutters a curse and swaps his glyph for the previous Ice glyphstone, casting the spell directly at Xathen's center. Seeing the effect, Anumesa levels another frozen gust at the shadow-creature.

Growling, Xathen gestures upwards and a wall of black smoke rises, shaking like a bedsheet as it absorbs the Dermorian's spell. Saiix places his glyphs in his sack "Hmm, seems my dark way isn't any real good here," he mutters.

"No," the shadow agrees, glaring, "but it tastes foul." He is caught by surprise as a blast of water energy from Fesek tears through his curtain, obliterating it, and he barely dodges - the jet flowing past him just above his left shoulder. "Fish-elf," he snarls, "you are REALLY beginning to annoy me." He levels his hand towards the Nolthrir, sending out a black tendril of smoke from the pool at his feet, but is forced to divert it as Saiix hurls Darkness at him again. The Dark Way magic is absorbed, and Xathen's eyes narrow further, barely-visible slits on his face as he glares at Saiix.

The dark mage sighs. "If this is how he likes to play..." Beside Saiix, Anumesa hurls glowing red fire upon the shadow.

Xathen gives a relieved sigh as the heat and flame strengthens him, and he throws Anumesa a toothy grin, but once again Fesek's magic catches him by surprise. He howls in anguish as an orb of water strikes his chest and knocks the black figure off his feet. Anumesa lets out a stream of curses and switches back to her Ice glyph.

Saiix holds his Darkness glyph in his left hand, and Taste of Death in his right "How about double the fun," he ponders, then launches both spells toward Xathen, but the shadow merely flows upright - unaffected save for the angry look he gives Saiix.

"We need Blue Way," Fesek shouts. He shivers a little, looking at Xathen.

"You have it, don't you?" Meredee looks at him. "You're a Nolthrir." Fesek lets out a heavy sigh.

"We need more." The conversation cuts short as Xathen rushes Fesek, swiping at him with a massive clawed hand. The Nolthrir falls back, throwing his arm up reflexively into Xathen's chest and pressing the Blue Way glyph into his foe's chest. Meredee brings her sword to Fesek's aid, slashing at his hand with her broadsword, but the blade passes through the shadow without any effect.

Saiix glares back at Xathen "I'm not done with you yet." He clenches his fists, focusing the last of his mana "I'll hit you with my best glyph..." Then he holds the fear glyph around his neck. Before him, the dark figure is hurled backwards, snarling in agony at the touch of Fesek's glyph. "Taste of Fear, shadow," he declares, hurling his spell forth.

"Anyone!" Fesek calls out. "With any sort of Blue Way magic! Use it!"

Meredee looks put-out. "I don't have any Blue Way..."

Xathen tastes Fear, and bares his crystaline teeth at Saiix. "It's disgusting," he growls, lunging forward at the mage's throat. Saiix falls back beneath the onslaught, and drops to the ground on one knee.

"Well, I'm wasted..." Behind him, Anumesa hurls one last water spell towards Xathen and retreats, taking Salona with her. Fesek fires a jet of freezing water at the shadow, employing Saiix's two-glyph trick to combine spells. Seeing an approaching dwarf, Xathen glides swiftly around him, dodging the spells and using the passerby as cover.

Fesek drops back, clearly exhausted. Saiix glances at him and then back at Xathen "This is not good...." Meredee rushes to Fesek's side, looking concerned.

"Are you alright?"

The Nolthrir grips his Energy glyph, trying to restore himself, and sighs. He looks up to Meredee and nods. "Just fine, never better. Now go into that tavern and buy me some cooled water." He tries to chuckle, but the attempt falls short on seeing Xathen glide up before Saiix.

"You insist on feeding me [stuff]" the shadow snarls. "Allow me to return the favor." He swings both claws at the mage's face - Saiix raises his arm to block the blow and is knocked backwards. As Xathen begins to move forward again, Fesek intervenes, blocking the shadow's path. He takes an offered pouch from Meredee and sips the water, laughing boldly in Xathen's face as he struggles to find humor in their desperate situation. His other hand grips a Dark Way glyph, cloaking himself and Saiix in blackness.

Xathen glares impassively, engulfing them both in his own dark smoke, absorbing the foul magic and crushing downwards. From beneath the black veil, hundreds of ice shards rip out, tearing apart the shadows enveloping them as the Nolthrir's Blue Way magic flares again. Despite having them almost in his grip, the shadow whirls to face Meredee, who stands to the side blasting Weakness at him with all her might. "Won't you fools EVER learn?" he hisses.

Saiix glances at Fesek, a sudden anger in his eyes as he tries to stand up "I never have been able to take lessons from he who calls me a fool."

Meredee grows angry, shouting "What do you want from us? Where do you come from?" Xathen flows like mercury towards her, trailing black smoke behind him as he leaves Fesek and Saiix on the ground. "What are you?! Go away!!!" she screams. Fesek looks to Meredee, then Xathen, and pushes himself from the ground.

Saiix grips his fist tight, black flames covering hist fist "Don't turn away from me!" he growls.

Xathen stops just in front of Meredee, glaring hungrily down at her. "I am Xathen Ut'Phaere, last known Etherwight of the Stone Labyrinth. And you-" he breaks off, hissing as black flames strike his back. He half-turns just as Fesek charges him, pressing two Blue Way glyphs firmly against the Etherwight's surface. The shadow roars in pain, backing rapidly away from Meredee.

"Fesek! Do it again!" Meredee encourages him, and the Nolthrir obligingly punishes Xathen with the two glyphs. Farren, waiting his moment to strike, rushes forward and sweeps his staff toward the Etherwight's head.

Xathen screams in anguish, backhanding Fesek away from him. Through the pain, his narrow eyes take on a confused tilt as Farren's staff passes through his head. Seeing his chance, Fesek leaps to his feet and rushes Xathen again, aiming both his glyphstones at Xathen's head - the shadow's long arms dart up, gripping Fesek's wrists and tossing the Nolthrir away like a toy. "Enough out of you," he snarls at Meredee, lunging at her like a black comet.

"No!" Fesek shouts, hurling a freezing orb of water at Xathen with desperate force. It freezes halfway through its travel, striking Xathen hard and solid with an odd crunching sound. The shadow is blasted aside, and lays on the ground wheezing under the crystal's azure light.

"This... will not continue..." he groans, shuddering in pain as another ice spell gnaws on his ethereal flesh. Surrendering his physical form, the Etherwight becomes a puddle of darkness, flowing into the protective shade of Brado's tavern. His pool of blackness thins out, merging with the shade and becoming indistinguishable as more travellers and citizens draw near to the sounds of conflict.

Saiix glances at the shadow one last time "No point for me to stay here.....I would guess I'm no longer needed..."

 The Etherwight's voice growls from the shade. "You are all pointless - all food. And in time, I will hunt you all, and devour you as I did those in the Labyrinth."

[Kieve]

[In coming through the doors and into Yliakum proper, Xathen knew he would need an ally. He laid his plans carefully, setting the grounds for an alliance that would aid him. And after his initial defeat, the necessity of it was made crystal-clear.]

...through shade and shadow, cloaked in darkness, Xathen passes through the foothills of Yliakum - a barely perceptible shadow flowing through the night. At last, he reaches Hydlaa's gates, pooling himself down the drains and into the sewers beneath the city. Downwards, into the depths, to find the aid his only other servant had promised...

In an alcove deep in Hydlaa's sewer system, Xathen pools out from the shadows, resuming his natural form. Anarkia, Farren, and Nalkorash are present - upon sighting Farren, he gives the elf a needle-toothe grin. It is the demonic Nalkorash that he has come to see, however, and the twisted Diaboli's first words are encouraging to the shadow's purpose.

"If you're who I think you are, I suppose I owe you an apology...I was distracted along the way to the specified location your messenger gave me..."

The Etherwight gives a slow nod. "I was also delayed," he replies blackly. "There are some here beneath the Azure Crystal more powerful than I expected." He holds up a hand to Farren as the elf's eyes begin to shimmer blue, the icy glow concentrating heavily in his eyes. "Ease, elf. I did not come here to feed on you," he assures the blind Dermorian.

Anarkia scoots behind Farren, who answers Xathen evenly. "You'd find me hard to feed on." Xathen studies the three carefully, silently puzzling over the odd alliance.

"I hold no feelings for them," Nalkorash says, smiling as he looks over his shoulder. "If you wish to dispose of them, go ahead." The shadow answers with a hollow laugh.

"In time, if it proves necessary... not now. Not here."

Nalkorash returns his gaze to Xathen and nods. "Very well." An expectant look crosses his face. "Sending messengers to death is an impressive length to go...I hope you have an equally impressive reason for wanting to see me."

"Indeed," the Etherwight agrees, his gaze drifting between Nalkorash and the pair behind him. "This is a new land for me, with new rules. Hunting requires a type of discipline and cunning I have not yet adapted."

Nalkorash grins, "You even look similar in your own way...we are going through the same situation."

Behind them, Farren turns to Anarkia and whispers, "Are you alright?" Xathen turns his focus to the pair.

"...Then it is to our benefit to aid each other. And these," he says, motioning to Anarkia and Farren," -can they be trusted?"

 Nalkorash looks back at them once again, "Probably not...for now they are just leeches to me."

Xathen gives Farren a particularly interested gaze. "Truly...? An interesting test, perhaps, to rid you of them then." The demon smiles.

"As I said before... do what you wish."

"Nalkorash," Anarkia hisses from behind Farren. "I thought you were dead."

Xathen waves a hand dismissively. "Another time. Tell me, half-demon... what powers does that corrupt blood of yours grant you?" The corrupted Diaboli ignores Anarkia's statement and recites a brief but impressive list of demonic abilities. Then, noting Xathen's choice of words, he adds a correction.

"Despite my appearance, I am not a half-demon," he says with a grim smile, "I am an unawakened demon. The last time these powers fully awoke, I fell into a deep slumber and lost them." He scowls. "They are returning now, but I'm afraid past events will repeat themselves." He clenches a fist, growling, "It is because of this place."

Xathen looks to the ceiling, nodding slowly. "The Crystal affects your demon so? Perhaps I might aid you in that, as well..."

Nalkorash's face lightens up, "That would be a dream come true...the only place I can fully release these powers is," and looks over at Anarkia, "the Death Realm..."

"You have a fine array of arts, but they seem terribly defensive," the shadow ponders aloud, a touch of sympathy in his voice. He fixes Nalkorash with a fearsome grin. "What would you say to making the shadows your own? To move unseen, undetected, in the presence of your enemies, and strike them down before the shock leaves their cold, dead eyes?"

Nalkorash laughs wickedly, looking at his own palms, "No one could stop me..." He looks up at Xathen, "I crave for a power such as that..."

The Etherwight blends into the shadows, moving as a barely perceptible ripple along the wall, and reforms behind Nalkorash. "A bargain I can make easily, demon," he declares. "My price - your aid in hunting this realm."

"As you wish," the demon agrees readily.

Anarkia shifts uneasily and nudges Farren. "Can we go now?" she whispers into his ear.

Xathen eyes Farren and Anarkia again. "You will not breathe a word of this... or every shadow will become your most horrible nightmare. Am I clear?"

"Yes Anarkia," Farren mutters, then to Nalkorash and Xathen he says, "We shall leave you." They stride from the sewer alcove, every step watched by the two monstrosities behind them.

"Hey!" Anarkia's shout echoes down the sewer tunnels. "A rat bit meh!" A brief snarl and scuffle follows, then her reverberating outburst - "DIE!" An anguished squeal follows, cut short as the rat meets its end. Nalkorash sighs, shaking his head.

"I really wish I knew why I haven't killed her yet."

Xathen scowls, his eyes narrowing to slits. "She is filthy - unsuitable as food. And that elf, though blind, has 'seen' far too much." He looks to Nalkorash. "That is why I would not devour either of them."

The demon nods. "As I said..." he reminds Xathen, "I would do anything to attain these powers."

The Etherwight grins. "Your task is not an easy one, demon. Every life that walks beneath the Crystal has its own energy - its own flavor. Youth and innocence are best. Perhaps you would know this taste as a thick and juicy meat? ...Find me ones such as this to feed upon and you will be well-compensated." He moves forward. "And to seal this bargain..." His arm lifts, gouging his own wrist open on one of his back spikes. Viscous dark fluid leaks down his hand. "This will mark you, and grant you small power over the darkness. The shadows will not obey you fully, but they will cloak you from prying eyes. Where," he finishes, eyeing Nalkorash, "would you bear this mark?"

Nalkorash grins, putting his ight hand on the top of his chest. "Here." Xathen nods and reaches out, his claws gouging the demon's flesh. His own oily black blood leaks into the wounds, forming an inverted triad of three dots. They glow a light, icy blue, and fade dormant. The demon flinches, then leans forward, taking deep breaths. "A-amazing..."

"There. The deed is done," Xathen states, willing his wound closed. "Focus on the darkness, and it will be yours to call upon when needed."

Nalkorash looks back at his hand after fixing his posture, "I can manipulate the shadows in any possible way...?"

Xathen laughs coldly. "Of course not. Do you think I would share all of my powers with you so easily? No, but they will cloak you when you have need, if there is any shadow around."

Nalkorash smirks, "Very well then. I know a few who may be good candidates for this task you've offered me..."

"Prove yourself to me - find me someone youthful and vigorous to feed on - and much more will be yours."

Nalkorash clenches his fist, "Consider it done...I will have your powers for sure." He laughs, "This is the best offering I have ever been given...I thank you for this." His footsteps echo down the tunnels, and Xathen gives a hollow laugh, melting into the darkness again.

[Kieve]

[The following events occur just after, as Nalkorash goes hunting. Since they are rather horrible, I wish to state clearly I am not Xathen. These are In-Character events, and I am not my character. Do not flame me or hate me for what is to follow, as it is only within Xathen's nature and not mine. I do not endorse any sort of violence against children and would never harm one in real life.

I don't know how much clearer I can make that, so without further ado...]

...at the entrance to the sewers, Xathen meets again with Nalkorash - impressed with his swift hunting...

The demon drags a young diaboli boy into view, releasing his scythe from the boy's neck. The boy, Mahesh, looks around with wide eyes. Xathen examines him closely.

"Hm..." the shadow mutters aloud, looking him over.

Oblivious to the shadow's intent, Mahesh gives a friendly wave. "Hi!"

Nalkorash laughs as he looks straight at Xathen, "It was so easy...I hope this is what you were looking for."

Xathen gazes down at him, a slow smile revealing his needle-sharp crystaline teeth. "Hello, boy..."

Mahesh eyes the Etherwight's teeth, and 'ooo's quietly. His attention drifts, looking bored, and Xathen raises a hand as if to pat him on the head.

To the boy's surprise, black smoke boils upwards around his feet, engulfing him to the waist and holding him in place. "This one will do splendidly, demon," he says to Nalkorash. Mahesh grows frightened, squirming.

Nalkorash laughs wickedly, unable to contain himself. "This will do it!"

"Do for what?" Mahesh wonders, trying to shoo the smoke away. Xathen does not answer, instead tightening his fog's hold on the boy - it thickens like mud, then concrete, crushing slowly as the Etherwight drains him of his life's energies.

"Help!" the young diaboli screams, struggling. Xathen casts a nervous glance at the corner, knowing the guard Percival stands guard at the Winch gates just around it. He glides closer, covering the child's mouth with one hand.

"Yes..." he gives a chilling laugh, "Those under the Crystal are far more sustaining." He glares down at the boy. "Silence, brat. You have an important duty to those in the under-realms... But first..."

"Wait!" Mahesh cries out, voice muffled beneath Xathen's claws. He struggles fiercely.

Xathen reaches to his face, placing the claws of his other hand at the boy's eye. Mahesh starts to shake as Xathen speaks again. "In some cultures, the people believed that consuming a foe's eyes bestowed wisdom." His hand closes, cruelly plucking out the eye in question, ignoring the boy's agonized scream. "For my part, I simply find them sweeter." With a final gesture, he crushes the last of the life from the boy and drops his crumpled body to the pavement.

"Demon... I am VERY impressed," Xathen states, grinning wickedly as he devours the boy's eye. Nalkorash covers his mouth with his hand, then removes it, still unable to contain his laughter of anticipation.

Responding to the boy's last wail, Anumesa rounds the corner. "Still lurking about?" the Dermorian woman states accusingly.

"My first victim," Nalkorash glares back at her, "unless you remove yourself from my sight."

Xathen eyes her coldly. "Begone, elf, or you will share the boy's fate."

"What are you talking about?" Anumesa demands, refusing to move. Behind her, Izzabella appears, looking desperate. Nalkorash turns to Xathen.

"Do it... quickly!" he insists.

"Mahesh!" Izzabella cries out, looking around. Anumesa looks shocked.

"YOU KILLED MAHESH?!" she shouts at the monstrous pair.

"They what?!?" Izzabella cries out.

Xathen wastes no more time. "Very well," he hisses, darting forward and digging his claws into Nalkorash's chest with gusto. Blue lights flare from his hands, sparking as they come in contact with the demon energy. Behind him, Izzabella grills Anumesa rapidly, panicked and unwilling to believe it was her son that just met his end at the shadow's hand. He turns, dodging a sheet of ice as Anumesa takes action. "I have no more time for your games," he snarls, and pools into the cracks of the pavement - a black ripple that flows down into the sewer shadows and disappears.

Nalkorash lingers a moment longer, laughing as the Etherwight's powers join his own. He sinks into the shadows, following suit and leaving the angry women behind...

[Post-script: And so concludes this portion of the story. My thanks to everyone who participated, and an additonal thanks and special apology to 'Mahesh' for going along with that last bit. I would also like to add that you've all given me some valuable insight into roleplaying, and I hope to make any future events (involving Xathen or otherwise) even more inclusive and engaging.]

Since the IC/In-Game portion of this Event has ended, you are welcome and encouraged to post your comments without [brackets] - hereafter, for the purpose of this thread, they are unnecessary.

[Suno_Regin]

[I had a lot of fun with this event.
Nalkorash crossed a boundary that I wasn't even planning him to cross in the beginning, can't wait to see how things are in the future. ]

[Duraza]

[I had fun battling Xathen as Saiix. Gave me the chance to finally use him in an rp instead of sitting around trying to talk to people who usually ignore me    ]

[Raa]

[

 

Baby-eater!

 

That was much easier reading than in normal log form. Goojob.]

[Izzabella]

That was so not cool...when asked ooc if I'd participate in an abduction..there was NO mention being eaten or killed..as soon as I get there I get this [you know your gonna die, right?] tell..was not cool and you just wait..revenge will be served.

[Anumesa]

I am SO in on the revenge party. 

[Suno_Regin]

[Your baby's next anumesa ]

[Farren Kutter]

[I love how you added in the whole rat killing thing xD]