[RP] Shadowdance

[Mantho]

Shakar must craft, it is time. He just spent a week gathering bits and bots of metal and leather around Hydlaa's crafters warehouse. People don't realise how usefull are those small spare parts they throw in garbadge.
With a selection of those, sorted out carefully and reserved in is worn leather bag, Shakar climbed the sewers ladder up to Hydlaa plaza.

He always lived down there. Oh they don't know how it was before. A curious gathering of tents and small houses made of wooden board and metal patches, a city under the city. Well that was before the octarchy raid, the disaster. Shakar shook his head to chase the memory but he saw her face.
He remembered his mother standing above an anvil. She became a good blacksmith, able to craft sharp, deadly daggers out of nothing. That's what he do now, all days.

Shakar placed some steel ingots in the furnace and started to focus on the gestures he learned by heart. He liked to work in the forge in the early morning. No one to tell him what to do, or to look at him suspiciously.
Harnquist barely gave him a crafting book, but Shakar don't know how to read !  " Idiot" he said out loud. No one could craft daggers like him anyways. Small daggers that fit in boots, sleeves or any place in a perfect discretion. Yes, that's something Shakar was particulary proud of... Even thought, this doesn't make a living. Shakar is poor and most of the time he struggle to find food. Steal, lie, plot, Shakar never learned any other manner to get what he needed to survive. That's his life.

" Shape the molten fteel that way... and a bit on the other fide..." he mumbled to himself while hammering. With pliers he carefully carried an heated blade back in the forge, picturing the next step.
When he was about to finish the shape of a new knife, Shakar felt a presence in the empty working place.

At the entry of the forge, there was standing another enkidukai of a self-assured and wealthy allure. He was looking at him with a discerning eye. Shakar, still hammering, was very certain he already met that menki somewhere, he seemed familiar.  He looked at him in the corner of his eyes and saluted hesitantly : " Haaay."

The enkidukai approached, determined, and said : " My brother, tell me your name."

Shakar, took by surprise, didn't really knew what to do. He was still hammering but slowler and was doing a mess of the molten metal : " Brother... errr..."  he stammered, trying to control himself :  " I  be Shakar Clupea, an enkidukai..."

" My name is Kull Rhundin, Shakar. It is a pleasure to meet you."

Shakar stoped his work for good this time and turned to frankly face Kull that appeared so sympathetic.  What he want from me personnaly ? Shakar was extremely cautious with everyone, extremely doubtful with "free kindness" but this enkidukai inspired him confidence, he had some strong charisma.
A vague smiles appeared on Shakar's face as he nodded to Kull, his right paw playing nervously with his lifeless ear.

Kull looked at Shakar for a moment and said : " Tell me Shakar, do you have sufficient work ?"

The shabby menki's heart beated faster, he unwillingly emited a sort of painfull moan, his eyes nailed on the floor, he was embarassed. Work ! Can he have work for Shakar ? : " Uhmm... Shakar works for himself, he does not win money... Why ?" he dared.

Kull aimed to put his right paw on Shakar's shoulder and said in a quiet voice : " My brother, it distresses me to see one of my own without sufficient work. I am an employer of several people. Work with me, and you will be paid well".

Shakar jumped when he felt Kull's paw on his shoulder. He was so close that he could feel Kull's breath on his face. He was scared somehow but the words he said ringed in his mind like loud hammers blows. "Work"... "Paid well"... Shakar didn't wanted to doubt anymore, he was thanksfull and Kull was familiar : "Aaaah err... I saw you in the fewers, do you live there aswell ?"

Kull peered at Shakar. The Akkaio's tail whiped a little at the mention of the sewers. But he continued to smile : "Ah, sometimes i venture there for a visit. But no my friend, i do not live there. If you work with me, you will afford a room at Kada-el's Tavern. It is warm there, and food and drink are plentiful."

Kull seemed so sure of himself, powerfull even. Shakar completly forgot his doubt. He didn't really pictured a warm bed but food... hearing Kull talking of "plentiful food and drink" made his ears twiching and his shoulders falling down : " What Shakar muft do for Kull Rhundin ?"

Kull smiled " For now, you will take this gift and buy yourself drink and food... and be merry my friend." He pulled out a pouch of coin from his satchel, opened it up and handed Shakar two golden circles.

Shakar was stuned, circles on his open paw, his jaws down, his eyes nailed onto Kull's. The Akkaio smiled and took his paw off Shakar : " Restore your strenght".

Shakar nodded, a large smiles forming on his face as he watched Kull walking down the Forge's stairs : " Rrho." Kull bowed : " Farewell until i see you tomorow my dear Shakar."

Kull left Shakar with money, a situation and a goal. A new start. Shakar shouted joyfully, careless of the world around : " Praised he beeee !" .
He gave him a name aswell, he shall be now know as : Mantho, the eye in enkidukai language. Shakar learned that per heart too.
The one that sees everything and that none notice.


[ This text to introduce the new recruit of the Syndicate. I am not really used to write in such narrative way so i am very open to any criticism. Just know tho that i am not a native english which should explain the eventual english "massacre".]

[bloodedIrishman]

Building The Ring

Kull made his way to Kada-el's, yearning for a quick drink from some of Allelia's best beer. The tavern was a local treasure. As he walked the streets of Hydlaa, the crime lord was deep in thought.

Syndicate operations in Hydlaa needed to expand, and Kull had several visible options on the table. First, he could saturate the market with Moon Silver, and therefore create demand by addicting the populace. Second, he could order robberies and create a short-term flow of profits into Syndicate coffers. Another option, the most attractive by far, was to create a venue for gambling and violence. The citizenry had an appetite for both as entertainment, no matter how the Octarchy tried to sterilize the city. As a means of novelty and a symbol of danger, all brawls would occur in a ring of daggers. The event would occur in the Arena. If any trouble arose, he knew that Gregori would cover it for a stake in the gambling outcomes. Alcohol would be sold for low prices, to assure higher bets and greater excitement.

Kull felt hopeful from the quality of these thoughts as he entered the tavern, its warmth and smell washing over him. The building contained an internal glow how well-tended it was by the owner and servers. Enjoying the respite, he walked over to the bar and ordered a mug of beer.

After purchasing and receiving a beer, Kull looked around to see a lone, young and bookish Dermorian man sitting at a table nearby. The stranger had a friendly demeanor and he raised his mug in friendship.

The bookish Dermorian said, "You look weary in battle garment. Would you care to sit?" He pointed to his seat, eyes upon the Akkaio. The table and chairs were stout, but worn with use. Allelia kept them clean, however. On the table a large candle was lit.

With a grin, Kull raised his glass in response. With a quick drink of the beer, he said, "I fear you are mistaken, for my hauberk is comfortable. But I will join you for a drink." He sat down, and said, "Tell me your name."

The young Dermorian said, "My apologies." They exchanged names and more information. As it turned out, the Dermorian was excellent with numbers, and through subtleties of discussion, revealed to Kull that he had worked as a criminal tradesman in exports and imports in the black market in the past. In an attempt to increase his network, the bookie said, "I admit, I am newly arrived in Hydlaa. Would you know of anything available for someone with experience in acquisitions and holdings, perhaps?"

Kull leaned on the table, and the bookie did likewise in response. The Akkio spoke softly. "The next time you speak about such a topic, I suggest you do so with subtlety."Indeed, friend. My voice rarely carries and I sometimes forget myself."

"Such a misstep can have terrible consequences. Do not forget it."

They continued speaking on business, eventually reaching an agreement. The bookie would work with bets and winnings on the Ring of Daggers. Kull had little knowledge of this man, however, and so did not fully introduce him to other Syndicate members. He would keep an eye on the bookish fellow, always wary of the quiet ones. Ready to depart with negotiation complete, Kull stood up and said, "Rrho, my new friend. Remember discretion, and leave no overt trace of a connection to us."

The Bookie responded. "Where I am from, there is saying. Until we meet again, 'shadows hide you'." He smiled confidently.

With an impressed look, Kull said, "And may they keep you safe." He left the tavern, satisfied at this progress.
As Kull left Kada-el's Tavern later into the evening, a cold wind whipped through the street. The Akkaio wrapped his gray, fur cloak closer. A bright young elf. He will make an excellent bookie. Rrho. His yellow, slitted eyes combed over the area, but were beaten to the catch by his ears, when he heard the voice of Mantho. The scrappy Enkidukai stood on a rug by the tavern begging for tria. The sight of a fellow Enkidukai in such straits gave Kull sadness, which was part of why he made efforts to improve the fortunes of Mantho in the first place.

Mantho was pleased to see Kull. After handing his friend a couple coins, he motioned for the beggar to follow. They made their way to the rear of Kada-el's, and there, spoke quietly. "Vejhape, I have a task for you."

With a humble attitude, the scruffy Enkidukai said, "Mantho is at your orders Kull Rhundin..."

Kull smiled at the receptivity. The Akkaio continued to speak quietly. "Spread word that a nighttime event will begin in the Arena every other week. It will consist of gambling and brawling. Alcohol will be sold as well. Two individuals enter a ring and fight until submission or one leaves the confines of the ring. No armor will be allowed, and no magic as well. Tell no one it was I who told you this."

Shakar looked at Kull in a serious manner. "Yef, okay! I will spread the rumor all over Hydlaa!"

Kull nodded. "Be discreet, Mantho." He produced another hexa and gave it to the menki.

Shakar's jaw dropped. "No! You not have to do that for Shakar! He is okay! Shakar works for you because you helped Shakar! I will be your eyes!"

Kull smiled, happy with his employee. "Vejhape, you are my favored one. Now go forth, and be well."

Shakar walked away, transforming into a poor beggar once more. He began to shout, "An octa for a beggar! Please, need to feed me cubs!"

[Nightshade]

A Taste of Deadly Nightshade

The Blood Tria Syndicate continued to grow and expand, with new members coming in. One of which is known as Nightshade. Little is known about him, except that he is a male, and has unquestionable loyalty to Phanterol and the Syndicate. He has been given access to certain items, glyphs, contacts, etc. in exchange for his loyalty. Word is getting out underground about his services. He moves swift, with discretion, almost like a ghost to some. With this unofficial acquisition of access to these things, he serves the Syndicate wholeheartedly. His access to these items is a means to achieve his goal, his ultimate obsession: Amberretta.

[Thidin]

A pleasant evening, talking with a dear friend, beautiful day yet, almost like clockwork, her crazed brother was walking up, about to ruin her pleasant evening.

“Hello Kull.”

An elf sat next the Thidin, but Kull made a specific act to ignore him. He wanted to only talk to Thidin. Kull blocked the elf from his view as he stood to look at Thidin, “I assume this is Shangshi, the one you spoke of.” Thidin’s mind was racing. This moment was hilarious to her. The brother who knew nothing about her pitted again the ‘stranger’ who knew everything. Kull had no idea of who Shangshi really was, and didn’t seem to care for him. It was made clear that he was here to talk to her only.
“Okay, then talk. I’m here.”

Kull waves in the direction of Shangshi. "With this fool rogue to hear it?"
She wasn’t about to dismiss her friend just so she could talk to her destructive brother. Thidin wasn’t quite sure what was the point of Kull trying to speak in private with her, but then again I doubt her brother had any idea that anything he told her would soon but told to the elf either way. “Yes, with this ‘fool’ listening.”

To the surprise of Thidin, Kull went to speak with his dear ex-wife, Teshia. Her brother, went to speak to his ex-wife about her. This day just became so much better. She couldn’t help but laugh, shaking in excitement to know how the conversation went. The information was next to nothing. Some not even true. Good thing too, she didn’t want her brother to know everything. Kull made sure to tell Thidin about the agony he went through just to receive a few bits of information from his ex-wife. Regardless, the effort did not go unnoticed.

The whole scenario was all but humorous to Thidin. Her brother, who knew next to nothing about her life, talking to Teshia, once a friend to her, all in front of Shangshi, their sister’s ex-husband or in better terms Kull’s once brother in law. Oh how funny this city can be.

Even so, Thidin grew annoyed with her brother, causing such a fuss just to learn about his sister, but not even Thidin understood why Kull was trying to rekindle their relationship.

 "You resent me Thidin. I accept that I did not partake in your life as a brother should. I will from now on." He kept up with this ‘act’, atleast that’s all it was to Thidin. He wanted to know more about his sister, and possibly this person listening on the conversation. The one she put so much trust into.

Thidin gave in, “I’ll tell you more in time. I'll help you with what you need Kull. Talking to Teshia showed me enough.” With her agreement to help, her brother walked off.

She was curious to what he wanted, and why. For now, Thidin would play along with his games for she had other intentions for getting so close to her ‘dear’ brother…

[bloodedIrishman]

A Contract For Information

Sacho approached Kull in the plaza for information. It appeared that he wanted to know more about a fenki named Nabilia. She was causing trouble and the older Enkidukai desired to know her motives. But Kull never gave freely unless the person was of special importance. Thus, a deal was struck. For information, Sacho would provide discreet services to the Akkaio crime lord. As he departed the meeting, Kull thought, Sacho offers me more with his talents and quiet virtues than any amount of  tria he could put together. Moreover, this should be a simple and profitable transaction.

Later in the day Kull met with Nabilia. He presented himself as a gentleman. A woman of seemingly upper class status among the Blikau, she had a snobbish voice but spoke well. The fenki sought one of the Amaul brothers, who Kull knew to be Celroc and Celrau. Nabilia claimed that ten cycles ago one of the pair permanently murdered five people, two of which included their parents.

But Kull knew the brothers to be young and impetuous Enkidukai, not killers. But his thoughts swerved to Sarren, the young assassin who was drugged, enchanted and trained to murder, but who now lived an honest life.

He ordered Whisper and Edge to gather information on Nabilia. On a trip to Ojaveda, his birthplace, Kull spoke to Brado about the matter.

The Clamod bartender told Kull that there were five True Deaths ten cycles ago. The Amaul parents died in a fire on their farm with two neighbors. Then the oldest brother perished by the use of poison a little later. Afterward the other two Amaul brothers were gone. Apparently, a fifth person survived the fire. He thanked Brado, had a drink, and went on his way. But Kull knew that Red Way could not issue True Death. The same poison that killed the oldest Amaul brother probably killed the other four on the farm, and the fire was probably used to cover it up. Moreover, the fifth person either committed the deed, or knew more than he or she let on. As the day grew long, and evening drew near, Kull made his way to lodging at a local, favored inn. He would continue his efforts to gather more information for Sacho. In part he sought out more information because the story grew more interesting the more he learned.

Upon Kull's return to Hydlaa, Whisper and Edge reported in individually on the matter. He learned that Nabilia had spread multiple stories with strange variations. She enlisted the help of numerous people and incited action against the Amaul brothers. Their name was destroyed, and she spread word that they were murderers. Kull more than suspect these were lies. He also found her upper class attitude and clothing more than a little contrived. Even the wealthiest of Enkidukai were not so snobbish. She claimed to want the brothers captured, and that she would hand them over to the Hydlaa Guard.

This and more was reported to Sacho when they met by Kada-el's Tavern.

The older Enkidukai male appeared healthy and attentive. With due diligence, Kull reported in on all the information the Syndicate had gathered. After nearly an hour of question and answer, Sacho was satisfied. The Akkaio crime lord proposed another contract, if Sacho wished to take it up. The price would be a modest sum of tria. It was dangerous and complex, but could bring the whole truth out in the open. They departed amicably, Sacho once more reminding Kull that he could not harm others when he provided Kull discreet services. We'll see.

[bloodedIrishman]

Apostasy

"Apostasy is a disease. Execute the source with impunity." - Council of the Hand, Edict on Apostasy

Kull strode over to Harnquist's Smithy, yearning to worship Dakkru with a sacrifice. He considered slaying a trepor or a tefusang, but found these options less thrilling than a heretic, atheist or an apostate. Such glory in ritual execution. I pray that I find one soon.

He saw a young, simply garbed, Akkaio huntress. She had a coarse demeanor, but was still quite young, perhaps around twenty five cycles.

He asked her to find several pounds of choice meat from a Tefusang. Over the course of a casual conversation, he learned that she had renounced religion and belief in the Gods long ago. A harsh look crossed his face upon hearing this information. But he covered it up, and pried further. Kull asked her to reconsider, but she did not. I gave the apostate a chance to reform. This is all I can be asked to do.

Jilata soon grew angry with Kull over how he spoke about the Gods. She was certainly a bitter apostate, but soon, he would cleanse her. There was no going back now, for she would soon know the price of apostasy. Belief and worship of the Gods was a requirement, responsibility and a privilege, not a free choice. For her sins, Jilata would suffer the consequences, and feed the Dark Crystal. As Kull walked away, a warmth grew from within. He would use this opportunity to build Dakkruism within the Blood Tria Syndicate. All glory to the Death Goddess.

[bloodedIrishman]

Ripped Apart

Kull walked through shadowy corridors in the Arena. He had heard Sarren was training here daily through the Syndicate information network. The Akkaio wore a Clamod bone-mask and a near black, fur cloak. Only his yellow, slitted eyes were visible on his face. Often he had worn it during missions, those seemingly distant cycles ago, with Sarren. He hoped it might rejuvenate the fool's memory. Eventually, Kull reached the center of the Arena. Sarren rested on a ledge, not making a sound.

After reaching a point not more than a few feet from Sarren, he said, "Hello, my student."

Sarren paused mid-stretch. The Dermorian reached for his mace as he turned around. But when he saw Kull, Sarren stepped off the ledge, landing on the floor below. He said, "What do you mean, 'student'?" He went on, "Nice persona. Are you partaking in the Ring in this-" Sarren gestured to the clothing "merchant of death costume?"

Kull's Clamod bone-mask betrayed no expression when he reached the ledge. He remained motionless as he said, "Do you recall so little?"

Sarren's hands snapped to the shortsword on his hip. He rolled his eyes dramatically. "Nothing, thank you, apart from muscle memory."

Kull said nothing and remained motionless for a minute. Suddenly, he jumped down on top of Sarren! An iron club rose forth from his cloak, and the Akkaio aimed to strike at Sarren's head!

With all the speed of his former years as an assassin, Sarren dipped to the side and brought the mace in his right hand around, aiming to hit Kull's leading left knee! Out of nowhere, Sulaika walked inside the area. Upon seeing the fight, she was shocked, and clearly concerned for Sarren. She wore a flowery festival dress and an elaborate headdress.

Kull touched the ground with the grace only an Enkidukai could possess. He quickly swerved around on the ground, and brought his club to meet Sarren's mace mid-strike! Kull aimed a sharp upper kick with his right leg to meet Sarren's face.

Upon recognizing Sulaika, Sarren shouted, "Run Sulaika!" But the kick grazed his cheek as he instinctively moved his head to the right to avoid full damage. With his free left hand, Sarren seized Kull's right wrist that carried the iron cub. Sulaika roared at Kull to "Stay away from him!"

The masked Akkaio smiled when Sarren used both free hands. It left his defenses open, so Kull rushed in to smash his bone-mask onto Sarren's nose and forehead!

The young Dermorian took the hit hard, causing him to falter into a daze. His nose streamed blood. But with muscle memory, he drove his knee into Kull's stomach. But the chain mail hauberk stopped most of the blow.

Kull lost wind from the attack. He was about to smash his club against Sarren's head as the Dermorian reeled, but Sulaika launched a Crystal Way attack. The ball of white magic smacked Kull in the chest, and sent him several feet backwards. He stumbled back to the stone wall. After regaining his wind and composure, Kull arched his back and prepared to strike again.

Sarren drew his short-sword with is left hand. He planted his left foot forward and held the blade horizontally in front. The mace was in his right hand and to the side. He placed himself squarely between Sulaika and Kull.

Kull spoke in a low growl. "Afraid, Sarren? It has been some time since we last fought. Back then you were my student. Now you choose to be my enemy."

Sulaika ran bravely up to Kull. She lifted her gown as she tried to kick Kull with her right foot. "Sarren, don't protect me! I'd rather get hit than you!"

Kull dropped his club, drew a dagger and rushed up to Sulaika. He grabbed her left arm, and aimed to stab her through the neck.

Sarren roared as he sped forward. The Dermorian aimed with frightening speed to smash Kull's head in with his mace. But he still had a chance to save her, because she managed to struggle and throw a punch at Kull's right arm.

Nevertheless Kull's dagger breached her throat. He received a bruise on the unarmored part of his arm. But in the midst of battle, he didn't feel the pain. Right before the blade stabbed right through Sulaika's soft neck, and blood poured out, her lips formed to say to Sarren: "I love you." The young woman fell to her knees, her eyes wide open.

But at that same moment, Sarren's mace came crashing down on Kull's head. Sheer shock overwhelmed the Enkidukai, who slumped to the ground beside Sarren's slain lover. His head was partially caved in and blood matted the once beautiful fur. As he lay dying, Kull said, "In the Realm...of Death, she will be my prisoner. There you will meet me, unarmed and alone." Kull's eyes began to close, "In exchange for her...you will submit yourself. In one...day, a man will meet with you." Then, drawing his other favored dagger, Kull slit his own throat. Blood poured onto the stone. He softly said, "Dakkru take me." The light left his eyes. As Sulaika's body began to disappear, Kull once more journeyed to the Death Realm to finish his divine mission.

[Rigwyn]

[ Nice     Hey wait... if Kull's prayer is answered, then he would be perma dead!  Take him Dakkru, Take him!    ]

[bloodedIrishman]

[ Nice     Hey wait... if Kull's prayer is answered, then he would be perma dead!  Take him Dakkru, Take him!    ]

[Kull would willingly go to to Dakkru. But his time is not yet! Beware, Rigwyn!  ]

[Sulaika]

[I haven't done this ever before. It shows Sulaika's perspective on the things. Kull was asking if I could write it. So I am no native english speaker sadly, what makes it even more harder for me often.  Sorry about grammar mistakes and all I am really open to any criticism. Thanks to Kull and Sarren that I am allowed to take part in this rp I will reach back a little more, so someone might understand Sulaika's concern a bit better hopefully, but it might open also some things that Kull doesn't know yet maybe  ]


Sulaika was sickly worried. She hadn't heard from Sarren, since some time. She was wondering, if he was travelling or already kidnapped. After she received that letter from Roled, she got even more worried about the whole situation. She needed to protect Sarren, by bringing him away from public. She made a plan to hide with him somewhere and speak with the people that Roled wrote she could trust in.

But the first one she spoke to was her soulmate Yenida. She knew she could trust her with her life, telling her that she needed to talk to Evirea as fast as she could about Sarren, cause Evirea was the one that would know the way to save her beloved Sarren. Sulaika even trusted Sarras with that, since she seen that Hemmel was Sarras enemy too. At least two people that knew some little inormation.

She looked around for Gova and some other healers that Roled mentioned in his letter, but only found one important healer, that comitted to help her. She was told by the healer that someone was watching her. Sulaika got concerned about that, sending another groffel to Yenida with this information, written her she should be careful, they might both be watched.

Sulaika still looked around for Sarren, then decided to send him as well a groffel with a drawing showing a female elf seeming to be obviously Sulaika looking around worried for a male elf seeming to be Sarren. She was hoping it would reach him this time. She had luck, a little groffel returned to her with a drawing showing Sarren working in the arena. Sulaika stared at the picture scared. She needed to act now. Sulaika was fearing for Sarren. He was alone in the arena, training like nothing going on. She didnt had the chance to tell him about Roled's letter, about Kull's spies and that the groffel carrying a letter she was sending to Roled, returned without any sign of him.

On her way to arena she met Madalynn. Sulaika didnt see her for some time, so Sulaika stopped, being friendly getting into a little Smalltalk. Though she was completely restless inside of her heart, only thinking that Sarren might be in danger. With some apologizes and some promises, they could meet in Kada El later for a drink she rode off in haste.

Sulaika run through the arena. She was dressed up with a new gown. She wanted to show it to Sarren and spend time with him and talk about all urgent news. She was now mad about herself, how she could wear such a gown in the arena, talking to herself, „Stupid Sulaika. You always do such mistakes in such important moments.“ As she entered the platform, where Gregori usually stands, she suddenly heard a shout from Sarren, „Sulaika watch out!“ Her heart almost stopped, it was too late already, she was in the middle of a fight. She couldn't protect him enough.

She tried to get the situation, seeing the masked man, that touched the ground with the grace of an Enkidukai could only posses. His speed and agility was also that of an Enkidukai she guessed. Sulaika stared stunned at the two, thinking what to do, as she seen the masked man kicking Sarren's cheek hard. Several thoughts were running through her mind, thinking to get rid of her gown, but then she thought she wouldnt have enough time to do this. This masked man, shouldn't get Sarren, that was all she could think on. She roared at Kull and shouted as a warning to stay away from Sarren.

She was scared all over, that this masked man, would take Sarren with him and she just watching it. With the next hit that Sarren got in his face of the masked man, she seen blood streaming down his nose and forehead. She couldn't take that anymore. She wasn't weak at all, she reminded herself being a master in the crystal way, having strucked down people with her sword abilities in the past. She was cursing herself inside, „How could she forget her swords, when going to arena.“ Sulaika started to gather her crystal magic. She needed to concentrate hard on it, forming a ray of positive energy in her hand. If by chance this masked man was training in the dark way, she would obviously give him a hard time with that. She focused on Kull hitting him hard with her crystal energy. Sulaika heard an „oomph“. Sulaika relieved as her magic seemed to help at least for a moment.

As being able to look at Sarren and Kull again, she seen Sarren placing himself between the masked man and her. Sulaika desperate inside of her heart, as she known he shouldn't protect her, to not get in danger. The masked man sayed in a low growl, „Are you afraid Sarren? It has been some time, since we fought, you and I. Then you were my student, and now you choose to be my enemy. I suggest you tell her to leave. That will keep her safe.“ His yellow, slitted eyes that peered through the mask appeared to have a little red in them now. Sulaika was now only thinking to hit the masked man, as he seemed distracted by talking to Sarren. She lifted her gown up and tried to run to Kull's side, trying to kick him with her feet in his right side, not seeing Sarren's scared look at her.

Sulaika heard a noise like something was dropped, turning her head, gasping, her eyes widen, seeing Kull drawing a dagger, rushing to her. Surprised by the movement of Kull, she made a fist with her left hand, trying to punch him in his right arm. Between that, Sarren roared in rage. Sulaika seen how his mace Armed arm now droped with fightening speed trying and connect with the crown of his head. But too late, the dagger reached her throat, stabbing right in it. She screamed under pain.

Sulaika glanced at Sarren a last moment, her lips formed, „I love you.“ Blood was squirting out of her throat. She fell down on her knees, then forward, facing the ground, surrounded by blood. Sulaika faded away, finding herself back in the death realm.

[bloodedIrishman]

Worship

Kull knelt on the other side of the abandoned room where he kept Sulaika prisoner. Before the Dakkruist stood a three foot stone statue of a beautiful, armored woman. It was surrounded by dark-wax candles, lit with purple flame. He was weak from the Death Price, but happy with the knowledge that he empowered Dakkru. Though weak in body, Kull was strong of mind and heart. As he spoke with strength and passion, a warmth erupted from within his battered form. Soon the throbbing pain in his skull dissipated.

With a full heart unmasked, I worship you Dakkru, Goddess of Death, Harbinger of Darkness, Ruler of the Death Realm.

Day or night, darkness or light
We who follow the righteous path, the chosen few
Dead or alive, wounded or whole
We who swear fealty to you, the tried and true
Joined, the eternal war!

Between order and chaos, the anti-God
No quarter shall be given!
Between truth and falsehood, the heretic
No quarter shall be given!
Between strength and weakness, the apostate
No quarter shall be given!
Between sanity and insanity, the atheist
No quarter shall be given!

We owe an eternal debt to you
With willing souls
We forsake all we knew
With willing souls
We rise, champions of Dakkru!

[Nightshade]

Clash between Light and Darkness

Two mages, one of the Dark way, the other of Crystal, stand opposite each other on a flat, stone roof in Gugrontid. Rain pours down, the roof is slippery. The air is chilly. They stare each other down. The Dark mage tosses his apple core away, tightening some of the straps on his ever-present leather armor. He reaches behind himself with his right hand and un-clips the longsword rising past his left shoulder. He allows the blade to slide into his hand, and he draws it the rest of the way back-handed, swinging the blade around in his hand to stand ready. The Crystal mage, dressed in a robe with leather armor underneath, channels his power and will inward. He has incredible focus, so much that he starts to glow with Crystal energy. He readies his wand-staff, a little under 6 feet long, holding it with both hands, his right foot slightly back. He assumes a steady, defensive stance.

The Crystal mage feels the rain running down his hood and welcomes the sight. He feels connected to the elements, remains calm and steady. The Dark mage steadies his footing and raises his left arm, clutching the staff in his hand. Winds begin to stir above him, and he moves the sword to a defensive position, holding it at an angle between himself and the Crystal mage. "What beautiful weather," he says, grinning. The Crystal mage appears unmoved. He smiles back, closes his eyes, and emits a light from the end of his staff. The light is not hot or strong, but incredibly bright. He angles the tip of the staff into the Dark mage's eyes, shining the bright light in his face. The Dark mage raises his longsword, holding it in front of his eyes to block the light and gathering Dark energy about him. The winds above him increase in speed. The Crystal mage opens his eyes and sees the longsword raised above the Dark mage's eyes and his left hand on the staff. Seeing opportunity to strike, the Crystal mage runs within distance and thrusts his foot towards the Dark mage's chest. Seeing the light shifting from the movement, the Dark mage begins to move carefully. He takes a small leap to the side as the kick draws close, making a three point landing, leaning on the fist carrying his longsword. His other hand holds the staff in the air, still causing the winds to grow. The Crystal mage pulls the staff downwards and inwards, attempting to rotate the staff with both of his hands against the grip of the Dark mage's left hand to break his grip. He fails, and decides to thrust the staff towards the Dark mage. The Dark mage drops his left knee, turning quickly right and up to parry the thrust. Rain pours down his face, which is bent into one of intense concentration. He moves to stand, pulling the longsword back to its defensive position.

The weather begins to grow colder. The Crystal mage feels the sharp drop in temperature and embraces it. As any normal Crystal way mage, he has affinity for blue way as well. The Dark mage refuses to let go of the staff. "If you don't want to let go, I will give you a reason to," the Crystal mage thinks. Using the change in weather to his advantage, the Crystal mage's hands, both gripped on his staff, start to grow icy cold. The coldness slithers and crawls to the other end, almost turning the Dark mage's left hand into a block of ice. The Dark mage immediately reacts. He quickly stuffs the end of his staff down his boot, raising his hand again. A clever move, but unfortunate for him a sharp, white slash cuts the air above him as a lightening bolt strikes his hand. The Dark mage screams in pain, dropping to one knee, but retaining his grip on his sword, albeit shakily. His hair stands crackling on end despite being wet, and white sparks leap on his left arm spastically. The Crystal mage sees the opportunity and gathers white energy in his left hand while holding onto the staff in his right. The Dark mage stands slowly, eyes on his opponent, left hand held in a grasping, but motionless claw, electricity sparking around it. As he stands he turns his body to raise his left hand at the Crystal mage, holding the longsword ready again, still grimacing.

The Crystal mage fires the ball of light from his left hand. The Dark mage anticipates it, but then unexpectedly the ball splits into two smaller balls of light, one that heads for his upper body, the other to his legs. This was an unusual attack the Dark mage had not seen before, one which utilized the light and energy glyphs. The balls of light were weaker, however, due to being split into two. The Dark mage steps sideways, leaning away from the upper sphere and testing the lower with his sword blade, once again gathering Dark energy toward the sword. The Dark mage still holds the crackling energy in his left hand. The lower ball of light is of course weaker than the original ball and splits into several harmless but bright pieces after coming into contact with the blade. Rather than blinding the Dark mage, whose eyes are squinting from the pain delivered from the lightning bolt, it instead catches the Crystal mage off guard. Unexpectedly blinded by his own attack, the Crystal mage becomes disoriented. The upper ball of light hits a stone in the background and erupts. The explosion is in the distance and does not affect either of them.

The Dark mage takes a few steps toward the disoriented Crystal mage and raises his hand, releasing all the energy from the bolt in his left arm. He shouts as he releases the flash, aiming for his chest. Still feeling blinded, the Crystal mage panics and drops the staff. He flinches, crosses his arms and shields his face and upper body instinctively, hoping that he doesn't get blown into a million pieces by this attack. "How could I be so careless?" He thought. "Subdued by my own move. How foolish of me."

The Dark mage allows his released bolt to strike the Crystal mage, but forces some of the energy to dissipate into the air around them. The bolt still carries a very hefty punch, on the scale of a weak Ulbernaut's punch. The Crystal mage gets knocked down, realizing for the first time just how powerful the Dark mage truly was.

"You could have killed me. I know when I am outmatched," the Crystal mage said, as he humbly got down on one knee. "I admit defeat." The Crystal mage opened his eyes, awaiting the Dark mage's reaction and ultimately his fate.

The Dark mage drops to one knee, breathing heavily and leaning on his longsword for support. "I will help ... you grow ... stronger." His face slowly turns to a calculated smile.

The Crystal mage smiles back, humbly bowing to this superior mage. "And I am willing to learn, Scribe."

Scribe responds, "As am I."

[Mantho]

[Woaa ! Excellent Nightshade and Scribe ! Beautifull fight... Makes me wonder how in the DR i will be able to type that in 2 mins  eheh ]

[Rigwyn]

[ Nicely done!    ]

[bloodedIrishman]

Sulaika, Imprisoned

I. Violence

Kull awoke inside a cave with slimy walls. Several yards away, near what was possibly the entrance, a dim light protruded from some unknown source. The putrid stench of rotted flesh overcame him and so the Akkaio's vision blurred and swam. Kull heard the sound of soft and wet ripping coming from somewhere deeper inside the cave. After what seemed to be a couple minutes, his vision cleared and focused on the source of the noise. He managed to see the outline of a hunchbacked being eating from what was likely a carcass. With no interest in finding out what the being might be -- as the Death Realm had a wealth of terrors -- and no interest in risking his own life for curiosity's sake, Kull left quietly and quickly. He made his way through rocky corridors, caverns and small outposts in a several hour-long trek. Finally, he found a cold but helpful wanderer who directed the Akkaio to the Fortress. With haste, Kull made his way there. He searched desperately for Sulaika, and managed to find her running along a commonly used pathway.

Kull was weakened from the Death Price, his body aching and tired. Perhaps more importantly, his mind felt thin, as if he were violence on a leash. As he pursued Sarren's lady, he knew exhaustion would overtake him soon. On that same point, she could not last much longer bearing the very same costs of the Death Price. With this in mind, Kull managed to close the gap, until he tackled her to the ground. Sulaika struggled to free herself, but Kull smashed her head repeatedly into the ground. It went by in a blur, although a small voice in Kull's head told him he was going to far. Finally, she fell unconscious. Kull carried her to an abandoned room he had sometimes used for solitary prayer, study, practice and clandestine meetings. There she would be a prisoner for some time.

II. Prison

Kull wore the same dark, fur cloak from before. Though his mask had shattered in the pursuit, a hood mostly covered his face. The Akkaio felt a glimpse of discomfort over the lack of luxury: with amenities of oil, scents, quality food and liquor gone in this area of the Death Realm. Though the Fortress held a number of these items, he would not have time to stay there.

After he tended to her wounds, Kull spoke with Sulaika. She kept asking why he was doing this, and where was Sarren, and that he would not succeed, and on and on she went.

The long-time Death Realm occupant who Kull sometimes used as a messenger came by, as agreed ahead of time. He was given several letters in Sulaika's presence, and off he went after payment. Soon Kull's Syndicate leaders would know the situation. After securing food and water for her, the Akkaio had to knock her out because the girl wouldn't stop shouting. His head throbbed from the Death Price, and he simply couldn't stand loud noises.

Kull knew Sulaika had no information to offer him, and thus had no reason to interrogate her. A small part of him felt regret for the pain he had caused her. But the virtue of his mission left no doubt in his mind that his actions were justified and necessary. 

The next day she continued to ask these questions. But it appeared that Sulaika had begun to lose some her sanity, because she repeatedly tried to kill herself by smashing her head into the cold, stone floor. Again, Kull had to disable her. He managed to make her drink a sleeping potion, an item he had prepared ahead of time. She fell asleep, and then after checking her bindings, Kull left to report to his superior.