[RP] Shadowdance

[Roled]

[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...]

[bloodedIrishman]

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.

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.

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."

[Mariana Xiechai]

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.

[Candy]

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.

[Thidin]

[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.

[bloodedIrishman]

[Great posts everyone. I love everyone's writing! Please, continue!  Post coming soon!]

[bloodedIrishman]

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.

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.

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.

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...

[bloodedIrishman]

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.

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.

[bloodedIrishman]

[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!]

[Rigwyn]

[ Shadowdance?  Dang it! I thought this was the Riverdance thread! ]

[bloodedIrishman]

[You had to, didn't you?  Well done, Rigmeister, well done.]

[JustaKitten]

[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.

[Irelander]

[You can stab if you want to, you can stab them from behind,
Shadowdance, Shadowdance. . . --sung to "Safety Dance"]

[bloodedIrishman]

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.

[bloodedIrishman]

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.

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.

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.