[Guen]
As the fire died down to glowing coals the exhausted girl slept. In her dreams, tho, the strands of the Companions life lines were stirring. Unconsciously she wove, creating a pattern, seeking to strengthen bonds and form a durable cloth from which to act against Jarg's evil. The background of pure black - then the brilliant colors each brought - laying one across another - doubling the strand where it was weak, allowing first one to dominate the pattern, then the next.
Even in her dreaming Guen felt an evil gathering, feeling its way ever closer. She stirred, then her weariness overcame the sense of peril.
[Jarg's Camp]
The night had fallen on the camp, and a lone fire showed itself to a few that could see it. One lone figure stood over the fire, and watched it burn. Anyone that came upon the fire would wonder how it was fueled, for there was nothing to show that it was burning anything, be it wood, coal, or cloth. It seemed to be coming from the ground itself.
"Is all in readiness Ma`taul? The night is growing darker and they are becoming stronger. Their bond is becoming as one, and I do not want them to be any stronger." Ma`taul turned when he heard the voice and started to raise his hands in fright. Looking upon Jarg, he slowly dropped them, but still left his hands fisted up.
"Yes, My lord, everything is working to your plan," Ma`taul said, in a shaking voice, and he bowed. "The fog has been called, and their sights are growing dim. They will not notice that anything is wrong until it is to late."
Ma`taul turned and threw something into the fire, causing it to flame up and change colors. "Have you heard what the prophets are saying about the one called Guen? That she will be your downfall if she is not killed." Ma`taul didn't have time to scream when Jarg walked up on him and reached out and grabbed for his throat.
"If you were not the only mage around for a hundred miles," Jard said while squeezing the very breath out of the mage, "I would kill you where you stand. You will never speak to me about what the stars, or what the Prophets have to say about me or anyone else in my house. Is that understood?" And he threw the mage to the ground.
"Y..Yes..yes My lord Jarg. It will be done this night." Ma`taul watched as the Lord Jarg smiled and then turning, and walked away. The mage stood up and rubbed his throat. "By all that is black, I hope to see his heart stuck on the end of a spear before I die." It was a whispered voice, and he made sure no one else heard him speak it. Turning back to the hell fire, he dropped down to his knees and started chanting. His voice carried out into the night to fall on one set of ears. The fog swirled and parted around the group, and made the dog and the wolf lose their sight of the camp. Even the smoke from the now dead fire failed to rise up though the fog's breath.
[Rolf]
**Get some rest little one. I will protect you and your friends tonight** Rolf stood and watched the fog starting to rise up from the ground. There was a stir in the fog but Rolf did not see it. He watched as the fog became harder to see through. He walked away from the camp to check on Raza, to be sure that all was well with her, and found that he could barely see anything in front of him. Even the scent of the fire was gone. All that was left was the scent of the fog, and it brought with it the scent of death.
**Raza, Can you hear me, Something is deadly wrong. Raza?" Rolf started to run back to the camp, but the fog grew dense and he became disoriented,not knowing witch way to turn, not being able to see anything but the fog. There were no sound, no sight of the trees, or any bush. Only the fog. For the first time, he felt helpless, and this made him even madder than before the incident with the boy.
**Kara, Kara can you hear me** There was no response, so Rolf sent out feelers to the others, and found resistance from the fog. **Anyone, can anyone hear me?** Rolf strained to hear a response and all he heard was laughter, coming from the fog. **Damn...**
[Jarg's Camp]
Ma`taul heard Rolf, and laughed, carrying his voice into the fog."Foolish creature, you can not save your friends now!! Soon you will be alone, and afraid." Ma`taul smiled and went back to chanting. He knew now that he had the wolf and the dog where he wanted them. He sent out his mind and found who he was looking for.
[Kara]
After Rolf licked her on the face, she felt like she was safe from any harm. That feeling did not last long. She fell into a deep troubled sleep. She did not dream of her home, nor her family.
She only saw blackness with a bit of fog rising up through the blackness. She shivered when the fog touched her. She watched as the fog reached for her, and she tried to push it away. The fog backed away, but became denser, and stronger. She tried to move away, but her feet were planted deep into the darkness. She called out for Rolf, but only meet with laughter. The fog circled around her, it would reach out and touch her here and there. Each time the fog touched her, she felt colder, and weaker. She tried to wake herself, but the fog seemed to hold her fast.
Without warning, the fog fell in on her, and she felt her body stiffen. She was no longer in control of her body but not her thoughts. She watched as the darkness became light, and could see the others lying around the now dead fire. She watched herself rise up and stand.
The fog was now gone, and she could see in the darkness like it was morning. She could feel herself smile, but she could not stop it. Someone or something was controlling her body, but not her mind. She bent down and reached for her staff. It glowed and pushed itself away from her, and she heard her body's voice curse. She walked around the camp, and saw with her own eyes picking up a very large stick. It was about three inches around and about four feet long. She watched as she gripped the stick and drawing it over her head, she brought it down on the ground with all her strength. The stick did not break, and she felt herself smile once more.
She saw herself standing over Guen and rubbing her hands on the stick to get a better grip. She screamed but coming from her voice was only laughter. She felt herself draw the large stick back over her head, felt every muscle tighten up, waiting for the swing to bring the large stick down. She heard a sickening laughter come from her lips, and saw the stick come down, heading fast towards Guen's head. She tried to scream a warning, to say something, anything. She tried to stop the stick from falling, but her body was not willing to stop. She felt the stick meet something solid and heard a muffled cry......
[Guen]
Even in her sleep Guen felt a cold bone chilling lethargy creep over her. Sounds became distant - unreal. Through the wall of cold she could hear a voice cursing, and then measured steps. The next thing she heard was the sound of a staff thudding against the ground. *Ensorcelled! This has the taste of Jarg or one of his minions.* Though her body would not respond,the woman's mind was alert and trying to find a solution. Sending probesout she realized that Raza was behind a wall of cold as was Rolf - she could still hear Raza and Rolf's fear but could not reach them.
Even as she tried to move her recalcitrant limbs, she heard the laughter bubble up, then suddenly Kara screamed a warning in her mind. The pain from Kara's mind freed her sluggish responses. Rolling away as the huge stick came down, she felt an additional wave of pain. Kara's blow had caught her shoulder, tearing that arm. Guen wavered to her feet, avoiding the spell bound girl as best she could. Moving unsteadily around the remains of the fire, she tried to break the spell holding the others. The wall of cold was too strong. Racking her brain, she finally grasped at one last plan.
Picking up a brand that still had fire on it, she struck at Kara. Hoping against hope that pain would break the bonds, as it had for her. *Kara! Battle this! You can break free.*
Guen, in anguish over giving pain to her friend, sent a defiant probe at Jarg. *Jarg! I am free! You have failed again Oh Mighty One. I spit at Thee and Thy Minions. Yet will I destroy Thee and thy evil works!*
Even as she taunted the evil Lord to distract his control over Kara and the others, despair washed over her. Her body was failing. One armed and half-paralyzed, she was near overwhelmed by the blows coming her way from the controlled Kara.
[Kirjath]
"By the gods, I can't move!!!" Thought Kirjath as he helplessly watched Guen and Kara circle each other. The fog felt like a huge weight on him, pinning him down to the ground. A rough grunt escaped his lips as he tried to rise up from the prostate position. Beads of sweat began to form on his forehead from the sheer effort of fighting the enchantment. "AAARGH!!!" But Kirjath was still on the ground unable to stand up.
[Kara]
Kara watched as her body took the stick and kept swinging at Guen, sometimes hitting her, sometimes missing her. She could here her voice laugh, and say " You are getting tired Guen. Soon I will have you where I want you".
Her mind heard Guen telling her to fight back, to take control of her body, but she was week, from the touch of the fog. All she could do was watch Guen try to battle her, without much luck. "You are all fools to think that Lord Jarg would let you come and destroy all that he has done".
She saw Guen stab her with the burning stick, but did not feel any pain. Kara saw the stick hit Guen in the leg , and saw her drop. She tried to fight the fog that was controlling her body, and for a moment , she was able to stop herself. "Guen, The staff, use the staff", and then her body went stiff and she was no longer in control again.
Kara cursed and felt her face smile and look around. She saw Kirjath, laying by the now dead fire, and sweat was poring from his body. He was trying to get up, to help Guen, but was held down by the fogs' powers. She walked up and stabbed the stick next to his head , again and again. "You will be next after I take care of your little friend here, and then the boy". She smiled down at him , and then walked over to where Guen was. She was bleeding, and trying to catch her breath that she knocked out of her. The staff was about five feet to her left and it was still glowing. Kara remembered that it moved away from her when she tried to grab for it. It knew she was not in her own mind, but would it let Guen pick it up?
Kara had to do something. Her mind worked, but her body did not. Try as she might, the fog grew stronger, as if it was feeding off of her. She thought about what her mother had taught her a long time ago. She was taught to use her mind to move small things. She never could get the hang of holding on to the object but she was able to move it.
She thought of the staff, letting her mind think of nothing else but the staff. She knew it was dangerous, fearing the fog would reach her mind as well as her body, but she had to take that chance. To save Guen , at any cost.Even if it meant her life, she would die for the cause. She pictured the staff moving closer to Guen. She had to do it, she just had to................
[Jarg Camp]
Ma`taul felt the pain from the stick and cursed. He had lost the control of Kara due to the pain, but was able to get back control. He was able to keep the others still with the fog. He laughed and stood by the fire, chanting, and controlling Kara's every move. There were a few time he had missed with the stick, while still trying to control her body. He was not use to controlling someone so young and inexperienced. He thought that he should have tried to control Kirjath , but his mind was to strong for that.
Through Kara's eyes he could see Kirjath trying to get up. He laughed and walked over to the downed warrior. Taking the stick,he tried to see how close he could come to his face without hitting him. Dirt flew and he watched the anger in the young mans eyes. " You will be next after I take care of your little friend here, and then the boy". He watched as Kirjath tried to struggle even harder, and he laughed. " The fool , not even he can fight the bonds that hold him".
His eyes looked over to where guen was , watching her trying to breathe, and holding her one arm where he had hit her the first time. " I should have split her head with that blow. How was she able to move"? He cursed and made Kara's body walk over to her. As he got closer, he felt a little weak , and could see Guen smiling, and that frightened him. "Why do you smile woman, when you know that I am about to kill you where you stand". Out of the corner of his eye, he saw something move. Something that was glowing. Something that was making Guen smile, and then laugh................
[Guen]
Guen felt Kara's supreme effort and realized the focus of her draw. She melded her will with the girls force and felt the Staff fly to her hand . Pulling her last reserve, she stuck Kara in the center of her chest with a backhand swing. It connected with a solid thud, then a red glow spread over the girl's form. With out waitng for the result's, Guen rolled to Kirjath's side-reaching out for his will, she touched the Warrior with Kara's Staff-praying that the magic would free them both. Stuggling to her feet once more she waited-terrified that Jarg's Mage was stronger than they were.
Suddenly, she thought of Bran -gazing around she caught sight of his still form curled under his threadbare blanket. She staggered to him -using the power of the Staff in his defense also. The Staff warmed in her hands-a warning or pleasure? Seeing Bran move slightly, she turned back to warily watch the others.
[Bran]
Bran was cold. Bone chilling , paralyzingly cold. He couldn't move. He heard, dreamlike, the sounds of struggle. Then somethimg struck him. Red fire spread through his bady-pain, a withdrawl of powerful cold, then warmth. Finally he was warm. His eyes opened and he stretched waking from his sleep. The sounds abruptly became real. He jumped to his feet only to have Guen collapse against him. There were rivulets of blood streaming from a deep ragged wound on her shoulder, and her breath was labored beneath her silver torque.
The boy's only thought was to help his friend. Pulling off his tunic hetried desperately to stauch the blood-in only a moment the tunic filled with red. "RAZA!" he screamed. The scream cut through the air like knife.
[Guen]
As vision faded, Guen's thoughts sought Montfort and Tal'ar, the elf child she had left in Sara's care at the Inn. The waif had touched a chord in herheart and she feared for his future, should she die.. There had to have been a reason for the pack of undead that they fought. but grayness overwhelmed her, as the blood filled young Bran's tunic and oozed through his fingers.
[Xan]
Enter Xan and Tal'ar
The young elven noble walked alone in the forest, scurrying amidst the towering trees and abundant fae. Usually he took his time to be entertained by the wondrous peoples, but today his games would have to wait, for he'd come out to think. Dodgin Perlinion, his usual playmate, he scrambled through the forest's depths towards the crystalline rivers.
Coming upon those rushing waters, his legs crossed under him and he sunk down to take that seat beside the rapid liquids, the mist rising from the sharp bend in the course of the river to pelt what of his flesh was bared. He was dressed informally, light breeches flaring off of his hips, to which they were bound by a coil of rope, and they remained quite baggy until they were tucked into his boots, giving the image of his legs being larger than they were. Rising out of the tightly bound cloth was his pale and slightly muscular chest, lean appendages moving forward to allow nimble digits their quick entrance below the surface of the water, rising to run through his hair, adding a dark sheen to the already black strands.
He breathed deeply and pulled out his thin pipe, an old piece of woodwork crafted by his uncle. It was made of pinewood, the inside lined with old cured wormwood, it's hallucigenic effects were neutralized, but it added a strong scent to the weed stuffed within.
He lit it, letting the heat spread through the still-moist weed, setting it's tapering end to his lips, closing his mouth tightly about it as he inhaled deeply, holding his breath before a few coughs overtook him and he let the smoke out.
With the relaxation flowing through his veins, soothing his muscles, he let his thoughts wander, taking in the beauty of it all. The pitiful humans warring against the elves, delving deeper into their hostilities until they would reach their downfall, facing off against the Elves, Necrom, The Outerplanars, and possibly Shou Lung... they would soon find their end. Very well, they seek the death of the teiflings and demons, but angels? Would they bring down the wrath of the very gods that bring them healing and protection?
Another inhalation of the pipe.
The persecutions? Would the humans truly think to track down every elf ?
Would they possibly think to go up against the great elven magicks? Even the sylvan elves would see the problems of a sprawling human nation, and the greys would undoubtedly step in, if for no other reason than to keep the elven magicks out of the hands of humanity. Another inhalation of the pipe.
Were the humans that stupid?
Pipe.
Were they really that violent?
Pipe.
Were they that bloody?
Pipe.
Why is there a small purple man doing his happy dance on my leg?
Pipe.
-------------------- Surprise was minimal, yet involuntarily an arched brow claimed a higher perch upon cream-hued visage.
"Hello...."
The purple man continued his erratic (and possibly erotic, depending on your tastes....-not here to judge-) dance, tiny purple limbs flaying about. A staccato beat formed, hardened heels raising small welt's in Xan's leg, yet he watched with what may have been a morbid curiousity of the small fellow.
"Ahoi, Ahoi, Hoidy-Hoidy-Hoi" was the purple man's response, the strange sound blending perfectly with the dance. Twin jade orbs suddenly froze on Xan, the purple man's dance halting as he gazed upon the elf.
"Oi, Oshi sorry, not see you"
"You're... forgiven, really"
"Wants dance with Oshi?!!" The purple thing suddenly began hopping
about
with an overabundance of joy, tiny palms clapping together."DANCE WITH
OSHI!"
Xan was not quite used to this, and so he decided to do what any rational, sane person could possibly do in his position. He raised the pipe, set it to his lips, and inhaled as deeply as those young elven lungs would allow.
Gaze darted about for an instant, before setting upon Oshi. He let a hand descend into the pouch at his side, and withdrew some multi colored dust, which he cradled in his hand. "Oshi, want to see a trick?"
Once more, the creature's pleasure bubbled forth, though his hopping only brought more pain to Xan's already-sore leg. "YUPYUPYUP! OSHI WANT SEE TRICK!"
"Alright...watch carefully...." Nimble fingers pushed the sand into the
palm of his hand, and he raised it to his lips, blowing hard. Having forgot
he was still holding the pipe betwixt pink tiers, he managed only to spill
some sand, as well as cause a large explosion in which his pipe erupted
with
the mass of weed that was within, spraying all over him and the ....thing.
Damn.
"Oshi in-pressed! Good Trickers!"
The pleasureful look upon Oshi's face disappeared, features going slack
as he was yelled at. With a suddenly limp stature, the six-inch tall man
climbed off of Xan, walking away with a brooding pout.
------------------
The elven prince rose with a start, chasing the ... well, he wasn't
sure
just what the creature was, but for now he'd think of the thing as an imp,
merely because it was as good a name as any other.
"I'm sorry! Wait! Come Back!"
With shoulders slumped, Oshi ignored the suddenly repenting elf, tiny
strides languidly carrying him forth amidst the towering roots of the
greenery about him. As he was quickly disheartened the imp was about to set
upon the foul-mouthed elf with a viscious curse before his god once more
gave him a nudge in his pampered purple patootie and reminded him of his
mission.
The imp turned to face Xan, the elf standing at a 'massive' five feet
and seven inches, looking rather frail before the impending anger of the
six
inch tall imp.
The words immediately followed by a sudden bending of the imp's knees,
squatting before jumping up like a spring suddenly uncoiled, crashing
bodily
into Xan's face.
There are those that liken living to an eternal darkness, a void in
which all is naught but shadowed mists crossing a landscape of lives and
deaths. Love, the light of all, bringing sight to those souls blinded in
the depths of eternal light, bringing joy, and pain, true life at last, to
lose
love would be to once more plunged into that eternal darkness, all the more
lonely for the knowledge of what was left behind in the light. If those
that believed such philosphies were correct, Xan was suddenly wallowing in
an
infinite cacophony of colors, madness sweeping over him like a crashing
surf.
A spew of gibberish spewed forth from his lips, vision faded, flesh
went numb, and Xan was lost inside himself, seeing all that one should never
see
within their own soul.
Days later the darkness receded. Xan was laying outside the Dragon's
Inn, half supported by the wall, half supported by another bum that lay
beneath him. His jaw set, and his hand darted down to smack the other bum's
hand, it surely didn't belong there!
Coming to a reluctant stand, aplantic digits coursed over his garb,
straightening the wizard's robes he wore, which looked far more like royal
vestments. He wore breeches and a tunic of as dark a blue as could be
created without it being black, over which was worn a sleeved cloak, of a
purple whose hue was only slightly differing from that of the tunic and
breeches, decorated with golden trim on it's sleeves and neckline.
Across his chest, not at all like his fine garb, was a worn leather
strap, leading down to a large pouch hanging on his left hip, containing
the gods-know-what within.On his other hip was a miniature scabbard,
containing
an exquisitely carved dagger.
A shake of his head and an absent minded mutter, a hand descending into
the pouch to pull forth his pipe once more, his magicks immediately
lighting it and the now-drier weed that resided in it's wooden depths.
Setting it to
his lips, he coughed and strode through the door into the Dragon's Inn. Enter Bittea
"Um.. It's 'impressed'"
"Urlfus says Oshi's gots ta boggle da doo. So's Oshi's gone ta boggle
yer doo"
Sara had been caring for the elf-child since Guen had left. He had remained silent,save for the tears he hid in his pillow each night. As customers passed through the Inn , he would gaze upon the face of each, looking for who knows what , then sadly turn away. *Poor little creature!* the soft hearted lady thought. *Just like Guen to pick up another stray* She smiled to herself.
Hugh had compained at first -thought the boy would unsettle the customers. But they grew used to it, as all he did was take one look, then go back to what he was doing. Actually he was a lot of help to her, what with the cleaning up and then helping to open in the morning. She came to depend on him, and at night would sit quietly by the kitchen hearth , singing while the boy stared into the ashes. He was given to sudden , quick hugs in passing when no one else was looking. Then running for the yard as if demons were after him. Sara remembered with a start that the boy had every right-Guen had saved him from a pack of Undead. She wished that she was able to pry words out of the grim mouth-perhaps it would begin to ease his heartbreak - it spoke from every bone in his body, tho he said not a word. Shaking her head , she turned back to her work as the child swept up , then withdrew to his corner as the night's mottley crew began to appear.
One, an Elvan lord, looked somewhat vague-he had almost staggered in-claiming a corner table he had ordered a light meal of bread, cream, butter and honey. He seemed very confused. *Handsome bloke, and his garments are really elegant!* she thought as she bustled about waiting on customers. *Aw, Well. Such are not for the likes of me.* she grinned broadly to herself as three more gully dwarves yelled for more ale.
[Tal]
Each face he searched was not the One. How would he ever achieve his goal? Then-he was there. No other had even come close . A mage -an ELVEN mage was there. *This is the One!*
Approaching the Mage with trepidation, but not allowing it to show, the slender elf-child cleared his throat. Then speaking out, he asked "Sire, I am in need of help. would you consider coming to my aid? the Lady who saved my life is in great peril , and I must bring one who can help her. I do not ask for myself ,Milord, but in name of her who showed me kindness and love." His small , slender form was tense-every boneand muscle in his fine face taut and drawn.
[Sara]
Running to stop the child from bothering the great Lord, Sara screeched to a halt. He was talking! Not just talking, but asking the Lord to take him to Guen! Sara stood there , mouth ready to catch flies for a week.
[Xan]
His gaze fell to settle on the small boy that had run up to him, a cream
hued hand extended to brush the boy away. Yet instantly he caught sight of
the cuspidated ears standing amidst the child's mane and the hand that was
near smacking him against the head instead came to alight upon his shoulder
in reassuring manner.
"Thine request 'tis naut for thee? Tell me of thine name firstly"
[Tal]
Pride stiffened the child's back and squared his shoulders. With a low grave little voice, he answered "I hight be Tal'ar Lorathnon, from The White Wood. My family , I am sure thou knowest, Oh Lord. My lady mother was traveling to visit in the Southwood, when- - - " here the jaw trembled, and tears welled but did not fall " when the Undead set up us at the Inn Stable.My friend Guen, saved me, my-my-my mother.....But Guen is in trouble, deep trouble. I can feel it! I must help her! She cannot be hurt like my mother. I WILL not loose another mother!" Steadying, the child looked hard into the Lord's eyes. "I need your help , Sir. It is your duty, and I call on you to do as you must."
[Bittea]
The crusty old Trail Master sat in one of the comfortable chairs by the fire. Having gathered a new Caaravan together, she planned on leaving on the North trek at daylight. Tonight , tho, she would enjoy the luxury of bath and a hearty, well cooked meal. *Hugh never fails.* she thought , as her gaze glinted around the room. Little missed the eye of the wiry old woman.
Later as Sara brought her meal, she quietly asked the serving maid " How far being the Lady Guen am I? I heard that there was a ruckus here and later at the gate? Guen has aided me many times,and if she has need, I want to help."
[Sara]
Sara thought a moment. She knew of the longstanding friendship between the old character and Guen. "M'aam, Guen is in real trouble. They left on the run, with Jarg's men hot on her trail. If you could do something, I know it is sore needed. you see that elf and the boy over there?" nodding her head toward Tal and the elf lord, she continued "The boy was left in my care by guen. Hasn't spoke a word since the undead killed his mother and her guards. But , out of the clear blue sky , he up and starts talking to the lord there. I never-well, mark my words, something will come of it!" And Sara hurried away to care for other customers.
[Xan/Tal/Bittea]
Tal stood stiffly waiting for the lord's answer
The elf examined the elven boy before him for a moment. "Thou hast
forgotten thine manners, child. Have thy elders abandoned
our fashions ?"
"My elders Sir, are dead" jaw grim, the child stood his ground. "My
friend is great need and I WILL ask for what is owed."
" Nothing is owed to thee, young one" A flare instantly of anger within
the depths of bright orbs, an instant detestment for those that could not
abide by the Ways, a child Demanding something from their liege lord, in
rude defiance when all they need is to follow the elder rituals to achieve
what they desire without enmity.
Fear resided in the boy, yet he knew the law. the Lord was required the help one who had saved a life. the glare from the Eyes of the Lord shook him.
"Very well, then My Liege. I acceed to thy rebuke" Bowing on one knee
before him, he began the ritual of exchange
The lord's hands each came to his hips, bowing perfectly at the waist,
descending but a few inches from his straight-bcked pose, and then awaited
the young one to proceed with the next step of the ceremony:
"I, Tal'ar Lorathanon, do come before thee, a lord of our people, with a
request of Honor Debt. one who brought succor to Me and Mine in an hour of
dire need, is in deadly Peril. This I know through the Gift that is of
My familie's line. I pray that , in thy graceful will, thou wouldst find it
in thine heart to aid this great Elf Friend"
Boy waited, with bated
breath-he was too young to remember all the ceremony. Would the Lord accept his quest.?
Proceeding with the graceful gesture that held a far more imposing
presence when Xan was seated upon throne, his hand fell into the pack at his
side, pulling forth a small pouch. A pair of fingers slipped within,
exiting once more with a pinch of diamond dust, sprinkled on the boys
forehead and accompanied by a long chant in the archaic rhythms of the lost
sylvan elvish language, the dust disappearing in accordance with the simple
spell, leaving an invisible mark upon the boys head, yet Tal could feel the
everpresent surge of energy evoked by the magi "Thine request was weighed
upon thine honors, and hast been granted as life times wish. Thou shalt
embark on trip immediately, with aid of thine
kinsman."
Watching under his lashes with a childs curiosity, Tal followed all that
Xan did. The chant wrapped itself around around and through him. he felt
deeply the weight of Xan's committment."Kinsmen.Lord? I am half a world
from home, and all those with me are dead.-Who will go with me?"
"Thine lord shalt accompany thee"
[Bittea]
Pondering it all, Bittea made a sudden decision. Pushing her old bones
up, she walked over to the table where the child was talking to the elf
lord.
*Lord, indeed! This youngster looks like he just woke up from a 10 day
drunk! hmrumf!*
Politely, she introduced herself, then ventured. "I am a friend of the
Lady
Guen WaReen. It seems this child is her charge. She is in deep trouble, and
I wondered what your interest is in all this?"
Shock coursed through the boy, when he realized that Xan would go with
him. Standing, he gave a grave little bow "Sir I am forever in thy debt"
"Thine debt is paid upon completion of this task. Let us depar-" finding
himself interrupted by Bittea, his gaze shifted from the boy, setting upon
the rude human.
Looking the young elf lord up and down, the old woman grinned. *I can
handle this one*
"My Lord,-" She switched into dipolmatic mode.
"Yes, Madam? Is there any specific reason you saw fit to interrupt a
conversation you had no part in?" Oh, yeah, he was a sexy bitch, but
still... now he was angry... he couldn't decide which spell to muster first,
the Charming which would muddle her mind, cause her to think of him as a
close and trusted friend, or a Spook, which would leave her in the corner
peeing over herself. He had a thoughtfl expression on his face, one often
worn by nobility, though this one was painted upon his handsome visage
because he was not sure which spell to start with.
"I beg your forgiveness. In my concern for the Lady, I forgot my
manners. Would you and the boy be in need of assistance? I leave in the
morning with my Caravan and would be honored to have Thee accompany us?"
"Thine caravan would consist of what?" needing to calm down, he pulled
out his pipe and took a deep puff from the instantly heated wood.
"15 outriders, well armed and 12 travelers- we offer protection and my
knowledge of the trail-" taking a deep breath she went on "-I am extremely
worried . Guen's company is pursued by Jarg's creatures.I have a vison of
her in great Peril. "
Xan kept his silent pose intact, watching and listening.
"Lord, I am a rough old woman. It has been many years since I have
graced the Elvan Courts under the Hill. Do not allow my rough manners to
block thy help from the Lady"
"My help hast already been vowed upon the blood wish of this child. Your
lack of manners shalt not deter me."
"Let us go "
[Raza]
Both Raz and Rolf were bound by the fog. Unable to hear their people, the wolf and dog were isolated. Raz quit trying to break the physical part of the ensorcelment, and began to gather her powers. *Dog indeed! That fool Ma'taul had absolutely no idea who and what he is dealing with.*
Seeking for the inner ways, the sighthound reached the hidden part of her mind. Calling on the door to open, she entered into that part of herself she seldom touched-her w'yer counterpart, the human side of her Spirit. Calling up the change, she felt waves of power wash through her-A different mist formed , swirling and eddying around her shape. The woman , transformed, set her spell to break the trance upon herself and Rolf. Within an instant all hold on them both was gone. Her heavy silver hair tousled by the wind, white skin glinting in the moonlight, Fara stood listening.She heard Bran's cry in her mind. "Rolf! Are you able to move? Come , we have work to do. " Changing back, before thought would prevent it, she set out in full lope for the campsite.
[Bran]
His bare thin chest heaving with grief Bran prayed to the Gods for help. He held pressure on the wound, and tried to will strength in his precious friend. Of all the people in the world , it was she who had guided and befriended him, found him a home, and helped him train for this quest. He watched as a red glow worked on both Kirjath and Kara. But where was Tigra?
[Kara / Ma'taul]
Kara saw something move from the corner of her eye, something glowing red. She saw Guen smile and that made the one controling her nervous. She felt a part of her body relaxe and she thought she was gaining control back. It was until she felt Guen hitting her in the chest, did she know how much control she realy had. The staff took her breath away, and she could feel the pain from the glow of the staff. She fell back, and her body started shaking , like she was having a fit. Her eyes rolled back in her head, and ever cell screamed . She felt like she was on fire.
Back at Jargs camp Ma'taul felt like his own skin was on fire. He tried to take in a breath and all he felt was the pain, drawing everything out of him. He fell to his knees and held out his hands, and forcing the words out, he chanted a counter spell . Sweet fresh air flowed into his lungs and he sucked in all he could , before coughing out rich red blood, from his lungs.
He cursed at himself for not taking a better look at the staff that Kara was carrying. It was powerful, but how powerful? That was the question that Ma'taul was going to find out. " Damn it, I almost lost complete control over the girl". Sweat pored over his body, and he wiped blood from the corner of his mouth. Standing, he walked back to the fire, and dropped to his knees once more. Pulling his eyes up in his head, he started chanting again, and felt the control he had on Kara once again.
[Tigra]
Tigra could not sleep on the cold hard ground . Something was not right, and she felt that the tree tops would be better. After the thing with the boy and Rolf, she decided to watch from above. She saw the fog starting to get thicker, but did not feel anything was wrong, yet. Something in her soul told her that it was coming, but from where she did'nt know. The hairs on the back of her neck stood out, and she felt a chill in the air. Checking on everyone, she bounded up the tallest tree she could find, and finding a good place to rest in the V of the tree, she took a deep breath and looked up at the stars. " Well at least its not a bad night. I do not feel any rain near, though we could use some". She looked down and saw the fog thicken and then there was no one to be seen. The night air took on a strange scent to it, like something bitter. " Must be the water", Tigra thought to herself.
Tigra closed her eyes and started to think about her home. She was startled when she heard two thumps of a stick beating against the ground. " Now why would any one do that? Did they see a snake and was trying to kill it. Tigra looked down and tried to see who was beating the stick. The fog was thicker than before, but she was able to make out a form in the mist. "Its Kara. Why is'nt she useing the staff? She could see a soft red glow behind Kara, and watched as the stick was drawn above the fog, and then was brought down with a deadly force. Tigra heard a loud thud, and then Guens voice screaming out, like she was hurt. " They must be playing. Guen is teaching Kara a few moves". Its good that those two get along so well. I would hate to see them against each other". Just as soon as she thought that, she heard Kara's voice.She heard a sickening laughter come from Kara's lips, and the laughter chilled Tigra to the bone. " You are getting tired Guen. Soon I will have you where I want you".
Tigra knew then that this was not a test, but something far worse. Something or some one has control of Kara, and is useing her to kill the rest. "Bastards" Tigra yelled and jumped down from her tree. She hit the fog, and was thrown thirty feet back. She spun in mid air and landed on her feet. Curseing, she tried again and was thrown against a tree. The impact almost took her breath away, and she heard Kara laughing once more. The fog had moved over to where she was standing, keeping her from getting any closer. Kara was standing over Kirjath and slamming the stick by his face. She could see that he could not move, no matter how hard he tried. She watched while Kara hit Guen , time and time again. Guen was bleeding bad and getting weeker by the minute. She was puzzled when she saw Guen smile, and from out of no where, she saw Kara's staff fly up and land into Guens hand.
" Hit her with it", Tigra yelled, but was not sure if the fog would allow her voice to be heard. She watched Guen take the now glowing staff, and hit Kara right in the chest. Kara fell after the glow from the staff over took her body, and she watched Kara's body shake. Tigra tried once more to reach Guen, but the fog was still holding her back. "Lets try this then"! Reaching in her pouch, she felt around until she found the glass marble she needed. "It worked on that damn plant at the cross road, lets see if it will work on this damn fog".
Reaching ba ck, she threw the small glass orb at the fog, hoping that it would not send it back to her. She was relieved to see it pass threw the fog and hit the ground. At first , nothing happen, then like a vacuum the fog started to fall in on it's self . It was as if the earth started sucking the fog in where the glass orb hit. Tigra started running over to where Guen was laying. She saw that Guen was able to help Kirjath and Bran up from the fog. Bran had his tunic pressed on Guens shoulder, but it was filling with red blood .
Be fore she was able to help, she heard a sound like a whistle, and felt the stick that Kara was holding, hit her between the shoulder blades. She fell , cursing, and rolled away as the stick came down once more, bearly missing her head. It landed within inches of Tigra's head with a loud THUD! Tigra swung her feet around, and caught Kara behind her heels. Kara fell back on the ground and Tigra was on top of her in a second. " Kirjath , try and help Bran stop the bleeding. I will try to reach Kara, and get who ever is controling her from doing any more harm". Tigra could feel the strenght that Kara was possesing, and it almost matched hers. She had her pinned down with the stick over Kara's chest, and was trying to keep her feet from kicking her in the back and the head. " Damn it Kara , Fight it! You can not let who or what ever win". Tigra -felt- Kara say * I am trying, but its so hard, and so cold*. Then Tigra heard Karas voice say, " She is to weak to fight, and when this is all said and done, I will have a nice fur to lay in my den , Or I might hang your head as a trophy on my wall", and then she laughed, a deep blood chilling laugh.
[ Rolf]
Rolf tried to reach Kara and the rest of the group, but the fog held him back. He tried bitting it, but only recieved a bad taste in his mouth. Turning, he heard Raz and went over to her. She was standing still, as if in a trance. All at once a different mist formed , swirling and eddying around her shape. The woman , transformed, set her spell to break the trance upon herself and Rolf. Within an instant all hold on them both was gone. Her heavy silver hair tousled by the wind, white skin glinting in the moonlight, Fara stood listening.She heard Bran's cry in her mind. "Rolf! Are you able to move? Come , we have work to do. " Changing back, before thought would prevent it, she set out in full lope for the campsite.
Rolf stood there with his mouth open, unable to move, by the site of Raza's transformation . He did not know what to say or do. She was more beautiful than anything he had ever seen. He heard Brans cry for help, and heard Raza say "Rolf! Are you able to move? Come , we have work to do".
Rolf snaped out of his trance after Raz changed back. The fog had lifted, and he followed her back to camp. He could smell blood in the air, and this made him mad. "Raz, something is wrong. I smell blood, and I hear a fight. Jargs men are in the camp. We must hurry".
Rolf followed Raza to the camp, and saw Guen slumped over Bran, with him holding a now wet tunic, now soaked with Guens blood. Rolf turned to see Tigra sitting over Kara, and he saw red. Not knowing that Kara was spellbound, He leeped over Bran and knocked Tigra off of Kara`s chest. Tigra spun and landed on her feet, with The widow in her hand. " Stupid beast, what the hell do you think you are doing?
** I will kill you where you stand Tigress. I will tear your heart out of your chest and eat it this night**. Rolfs eyes turned a deep red, and he beared his white teeth. ** You will pay this night for hurting my Kara, and for the pain that you have caused**. Slowly he stocked her, all the while standing between Kara and Tigra. He heard Tigra say "Rolf, Look out"!! It was not until he felt the stick break over his back did he know that he was trying to save the wrong person. Everything started to go black, and he heard Kara's voice say " Foolish Wolf, I told you that you will be alone this night. After I kill everyone, I will come back and skin you alive". He heard Raza growl,and then the blackness over took him.
[Tigra]
Tigra had a good grip on Kara, and was not letting her up. She did not see Rolf, and was to late to give him a warning. She felt the large Wolf hit her and knocked her off of Kara. She was able to roll with the hit, and on instince, she drew The Widow, and held it out. She saw Kara jump up and drew the stick back. "Rolf. look out" she warned, but it was to late. Kara broke the stick over the big Wolf back, and saw him go down. Kara bent down and said something to him before he passed out, was to far away to here her. She looked over and saw Raza, with her eyes flaming white and growling.......
[Raza/Fara]
Raza heard Kara threaten Rolf and knew her intent toward Guen.The huge hound both saw the life 's blood streaming out of her friend ,and felt the gray welling up to take her Spirit. Fury over took all thought as she crouched to spring for the evil-filled form. Fara reached just when the hound's body was tensing to leap for the girl's throat. Calling the change once more, The wyer woman stepped forth from the mist like an avenging angel.
Grabbing power from mid air, from the coals of the fire, up through the souls of her feet,and from the sweat of her brow she wove a sword of energy to deal with this puny Mage of Jarg's! Red, blue, green and gold coalesced in a thing of intense , overwhelming beauty.,Both here on this plane and even more on the others. seizing Kara's body from the Mage, she summoned a shaft a will and punched a hole thought the fabric of his shield. Laughing as the shields crumpled at the shock and terror on the being's features,Fara gave him just enough time to send a message to his Master Jarg before striking.
Turning to watch as the head rolled away from the still standing body, she felt her sword gather in all the Mage's power-absorbing it as a thirsty beast sucking up water. The sword cried, and keened for true blood, and Fara drew it across her palm before allowing it to vanish. Inhaling to gain the calm needed to change back, she gazed around the camp--good-none had seen her! She changed.
Raza dropped by her mistress, exhausted. Her front paw was bloodied, for some reason. Laying there, anxiously watching over Guen and the boy, she licked the paw clean .
[Kara]
Kara watched as Rolf fell from the blow. She thought " This mage will d..... But before she was able to finish her thought, she felt a chill over come her mind. She felt a new precence over take her , and the fog started to fade from her mind. She fell and found that she was in control of her body once more. Every part of her screamed freedom , but she also felt the pain. It was getting hard to breath, and her right shoulder was hurting bad. She felt like everything was going in slow motion. She glanced over to where Guen was and saw a strange looking girl standing near her,looking around. The girl had silver hair and white skin . " Who is she? Is she here to help, or finish us off. She watched as a multi-colored fog fall over her and then she changed back to Raza. " It cant be. It must be a trick of the Mage. Raza can't be a W'yer. It was'nt possable. Guen would have said someting to her if she was.
She rolled over, the pain making her see red, and looked at Rolf. He was breathing, but he was knocked out. Blood could be seen in his fur, and Kara drug herself over to him. " Rolf....Oh Rolf..Please be alright...Please. You can not leave me..I would'nt know what to do with out you...Please.. It was not my fault...Please be alright".. Tears fell on Rolfs fur, and rolled down to the ground. "Someone help..Please......
[Tigra] Tigra saw Raza change, and destroy the mage that was controling Kara. What she could'nt understand was why she cut her own hand. Could the blade that she carried needed the fresh taste of blood? She had heard of a few mysticl weapons that did that , but she had never seen one. Running over to where Rolf and Kara was laying , she dropped down and started checking on Rolf. " I think he will be ok , Kara , but I want you to lay still. You are hurt worse than he is right now". Tigra saw Kara look up and then she took her hand. " Help him first".. and then she coughed and spit up blood. "You need help mo"...." NO!!" Kara spit out.. "Help him..Help him first...Now".
Tigra shook her head and taking her hands, she closed her eyes and started to chant something in her own speech..She had only done this chant a few times, and each time she did, it took longer for her to regain her strength . But it had to be done. She felt her soul mix with Rolfs and then the healing began . It did not take long and Rolf started to move. Kara smiled, then coughed up a lot of blood. " Your next , and I do not want to hear another "No" out of you". She made sure that Rolf was alright and then she started to place her hands on Kara. "I better check you out first". Rolling kara over on her side, Tigra began to see how bad she was. "Damn , two broken ribs, and a dislocated shoulder. You are in deep trouble. I think between you and Guen , it would be a toss up". She got a small smile out of that, and then Kara coughed again and then Passed out. ' Do something Tigra , please' , She heard Rolf say. He was awake and looking better by the minute. ' I will try my friend, I will try.
Tigra knew that it was going to be trying on her soul, but no one else was around to help. Guen was down, with Bran helping her. Raza was by her side and Tigra knew that she would not leave her side. That left Kirjath , and he was no where to be found. She thought she saw him head to the water. "He might be looking for herbs or plants to help Guen.
Tigra `s attention turned back to Kara. She was not sure if she would be able to help her. She had only helped other creatures that had an animals soul , and not a human, or that of a half elf. It was dangerous, but she had no choice . She had to try. Reaching out, she started chanting , and sending her soul to Kara`s soul. She felt them touch , and felt her strength and her being start to flow through Kara , mending broken bones, healing tore muscles , and replacing the shoulder that was out of joint. Kara breathing became stronger nd her skin started to get back its color. What Tigra could not see what the fine hair that was growing all over Kara's body. A soft white fur was changing her from a half elf into a tigress as well. Kara's teeth started to grow sharper, and her hands grew longer and larger. She was becoming a white clone of Tigra. The only thing missing was the tail.
Tigra grew tired, but she didnt open her eyes. She chanted on , until she collapsed. Her body shut down and she went into a deep sleep........
~[Jarg]~
Situated in the depths of hell spawned shade, crimson hued tiers parted slowly, before quivering as they allowed spidery arcana to leave their tenebrious depths, subtle aura of confined energies evoked about silken garbed form. Finely garbed frame was ensconced upon marble throne, one leather encased hand held palm-upwards before him, a crystal globe cradled within the grasp of nimble digits.
Cold azures were focused on the sight within, beholding the battle that raged and the slaughter of his Mage. Quiet curses left him before a second hand passed over the globe, accompanying a vicious whisper. Within the forest, the group was suddenly besieged. The fog thickened, no longer a choking mist, rather a darkening mist that settled in the sky, desecrating sight of moon and stars. Before the group stood a trio of lithe warriors. Three pallid faced men, expressionless countenances on display for those awaiting attack. Garbed in blackened chain mail, over it well kept silks, in hand each carried ornately carved longswords, twinkling with a light of their own.
With the hold broken, Kirjath easily got up and hurried to Guen and Bran's side. With urgency, he told Bran, "Lay down Guen on the ground gently. Put your palms on the wound and press. Hurry!"
Kirjath went back to his sleeping place and quickly grabbed the pouch where he kept his salve. Taking off his cloth-hide vest, he took it in both hands and ripped it into long strips. He dumped the contents of the pouch, red colored medicinal powder, unto the strip. He spit to wet the powder and make it stick to the cloth strip. This done, he quickly but gently began to dress Guen's wound.
"Here, cover her with the blanket and keep her as warm as possible, Bran. The wound will close and the bleeding stop but Guen's lost much blood."Kirjath shook Guen firmly. "Guen! Stay with us! Open your eyes! You can't faint!"
[Guen]
Fire in the wound brought her back to conciousness. "Gods-I am already dying! " The woman cursed. Weak as a kitten the gold skinned body was healing-she felt rather than saw Kirjath's hadn s as he dressed the salve in . With the return to awaareness, Guen could Reach again. She "saw" the power threads within her body and began to weakly weave them back into whole pattern. Something in the salve Kirhath used was aiding her efforts. She could remember no exchange of body fluids between them, but it was as if he had gifted her with something of his blood, for strength.
Why had a mere physical wound damaged her so badly ? Then it struck her. Kara had been controlled by that blasted Mage of Jarg's. But Guen had no sense of his presence now. Many things must have happened while she was out. Now, with the strands of life force woven into a strong rope , she set healing spell. A dull glow surrounded her form, then gradually brightened. Tremors racked the girl, but she held-continuing on. The glow increased , til it abruptly vanished. She stood , searching for her sword and evaluating the scene of struggle around her.
Three warriors in camp-Vampires by their black aura, and Tigra on the ground. Kara-She couldn't reach Kara- Bran she felt as he helped her stand while Kirjath was on the other side of the fire.
Raza lay on the ground , licking her paw-wounded somehow and Rolf hackling at all and sundry. Ha'in-screamed in her mind! *I could not find you! Where have you been ? I cannot get past this Fog to reach you*
"What a disaster." she muttered under her breath, as she picked up her great sword from behind her. It's enchanted blade was probably their only protection , unless Kirjath had some thing up his sleeve.
Drawing the shining blade she stepped forward to meet the nightlords. With a wave of her hand, she rekindled the fire. It's flames leapt upwards lighting the campsite well enough for battle. The gleam of the fire glanced off the blade-highlighting the steel length , and causing the silver center line of the engraved runes to glow with a gentle sheen. The hilt , wrapped in worn leathers, fit well in the WaReen's hand.
"Kirjath!" she called softly-"These nightlords must be stopped or we fail!"
Sending to Raza Guen was worried- *We need to leave this place-put as much physical distance between us and them as possible. If the others can get mounted and head out, I can delay these minions of His.*
The plan jelled. Speaking to boy behind her, she said "Bran-get the horses, and bring them in reach! Kirjath-can you carry Tigra and ride, too? We have got to get as far away from these by daylight as possible.There is a pass through the hills about 5 leagues from here, if we make that we are in the desert country and THAT I know well!"
[Kara/ Tigra/Rolf ]
Kara woke with a powerful headache. She felt that something was wrong, but could not tell what. All of her senses were heightened. She could hear the wind blowing through the trees, feel the slightest touch of the grass that was stuck to her fur. " Fur? By the gods, I am covered with fur ", She yelled. This made her head pound even more. She stood up and started getting dizzy. Everything was spinning around the camp, until she saw the dead fire flare up, showing three strangers standing near the edge of camp. With a whiff of the air, Kara hissed "Bloody Vampires. Now thats all we need. She stepped back and almost tripped over Tigra.
Tigra was down, but not all the way out. She could hear kara say something about fur and Vampires. She felt Karas foot when she almost tripped over her. In a weak voice, Tigra said "Help me up to where Guen and Kirjath are. We must get away and regroup. Take 'The Widow '. Concentrate on its powers, and you will be fine", then she slumped into a deep sleep.
Kara did not know what to do. Her whole body screamed for blood, and she was not sure if she could fight the urge. She could see in the dark, like it was day, before the flames light up the camp site. Everything was strange to her. She bend down and picked up Tigra still form , and found that she was stronger than before. "Hold on Tigra , and pray I can do this". Tigra just moaned , and she felt like dead weight. With all the strength that she could find , She bend down and jumped. Kara felt the wind whip around her and Tigra , and found that she had jumped over Guen and Kirjath by ten feet. " By the gods, what did Tigra do to me?" She ran up and dropped Tigra by Bran. "Bran. Watch over Tigra until we have the chance to get out of here. Take Tigras sword and wait. If there is any trouble, try and gather the horses . We might have to make a run for it". Rolf was close behind her, and he keep looking at her strangely. ' Kara? Is that you? By the Forest Spirits, what have you done to yourself? You look like Tigra, but your White furred and with out a tail . I must say it is an improvment though' , and he ducked as Kara tried to swat him with her hand. That when she noticed her hands. The finger nails retracted like a cats. She was a clone of Tigra. She even -felt- like a tigeress. She knew she had to talk to Tigra when this was all said and done. She felt that there was something wrong, and reached near the back of her pants. With one finger nail , she split the back of her pants and out poped a silver tail. "Oh this is just great", and she shook her head. Reaching down, she picked up the staff and felt the powers that it possesed. Turning back , she looked at Guen.
" Guen "... She started to say something to her , but it caught in her throat. Tears started to fall, and she turned away from the group. She was sorry about everything, even though she knew it was not her fault. " Who knew that one of Jarg`s mages would try something like that", she thought . " What can I say to Her? To Kirjath? Even to Tigra and bran. Will they trust me again? What can I do to prove myself to them"? The questions haunted her, and she started to cry more. She could feel the tears flow down her cheeks, and she tasted the salt from them.
"Damn you Jarg , you black hearted bastard. If it takes a life time, I will kill you with my bare hands", her thoughts screamed up at the nights stars. She felt the staffs powers grow with her anger and she could taste her own blood, boiling up in side her. She was not sure what Tigra had done to her, but she was glad. A smile crossed her cat like lips, and she gripped the staff tighter, and the sound of it digging into the ground made an eerie sound.
Kara did not know that Rolf was sending all her thoughts to the others. All but the Vampires. He looked over at Raza . ' Raz , are you hurt ? Is there anything I can do? Can you fight? I am here to protect you with my life and soul . No one will harm you this night , and by the forest spirits I will die, making sure that it will not happen'. He knew she was a W`yer , but he still felt he needed to protect her. He had strange feelings about her, but was not sure what the feeling meant. They were the same feeling he had for Kara and her family, but much stronger. He was mad at her for not helping him when he was almost drowned by the devil fish , but felt she was hidding something. Something he will need to ask her when they are alone again. If that time ever came to past........
[Guen]
Glancing at Kara, Guen wasn't sure if the mimic was to their advantage or not. Was the girl still controlled? Unsure, she could only watch and wait, keeping herself between the down Tigra and the Nightlord's.
[Raza]
Raz heard Rolf 's concern and it warmed her to no end. Despite the wolfish tendencies, the sighthound had come to truly value the brave creature. *If only..* She thought to herself. Then she sent* Rolf , I'm fine. We must get away from here. Guen can handle herself, even with Vampires, but she is weaker than she thinks, and these are full fledged Nightlords-tough as nails!* She Sent tothe War stallion-*Ha'in-move it! Gather up the mares and mules and come hot foot.Bran was coming but he is needed here with Kara right now.*
[Bran]
Moving Tigra carefully to the pile of packs, Bran watched as Kara's tears rolled - Guen was standing on here own-strength returned, so he moved to Kara's side. Tentatively, he reached out and wiped a tear from her silken fur. "Kara?" he murmered. "This will pass. No one blames you. Jarg uses that type of fear and insecurity to tear friends apart. That's probably one of the reasons he did it, you know?" Putting an arm around her, he drew her behind Kirjath and Guen's protective stand. Speaking words to ease her spirit , he gathered up their precious belonging , packing as fast as he was able. Nervously he looked beyond Guen and Kirjath, wondering what the trio of vampires would try.
[Ha'in]
Nipping and snaking his head at the mares , the great stallion got them moving into camp, now that the Fog had dissolved. Fury held his muscles tense-and anger at Jarg for another attack on his companion the WaReen. The sheen of the fire reddened his blood bay coat even more deeply as he worked the mares around to Bran. He stepped up to stand beside Guen-towering over her. She simply nodded and waited-sword shifting slowly-always on target,, while Bran loaded the mares.
[Raza]
Raz moved over to stand next to Rolf. For a moment she laid her muzzle on his shoulder, then focused on her Lady and Kirjath-ready if the situation erupted. *Guen? What now?*
[Guen]
Bran was loaded. He had Tigra across his saddle bow and Kara was up and moving. Changed , *More than a little! * but moving. She signed for all to leave, then slowly backed until she was ready to mount. Shifting the long sword from hand to hand, muscled wrists flexing each time, the WaReen thought desperately as she maintained a distance from the trio of creatures.
> [Kirjath]
The nightlords had not moved yet. Mounting up on one of the mares,Kirjath turned to Guen and whispered, "Will they follow us? Are they sent from Jarg?"
He gripped tightly the shaft of the spear ready to throw it at a word from the desert girl.
[Guen]
Guen swung up on Hai'nn -eyes always on Jarg's Nightlords. "Kirjath-they are Jarg's. The strands of darkness leached on them prove it. Why they aren't attacking I have no idea-all I know to do is to move, as far North as we can. If we become separated, meet at the Abbey."
She hissed at the group. "Now, Ride!" and clapping heels to the great war steed, she led the way out of the woods and through the vales toward the high desert. She and the Warrior shifted to the rear-guarding against the Nightlords. Their lack of action worried Guen*-What a strategy-wear me down with worry* she grinned to herself.
"Kirjath," she spoke quietly, not wanting the others to hear- "I fear an ambush ahead and we are all so weary. Have you any thoughts on the matter?"
She rode even with Kirjath as she watched young Bran try to care for the sick girl as they rode ahead.
[Bran]
Bran struggled to keep the sick girl on her mount-then he finally gave up and swung her in front on his saddle bow. She felt good in his arms, but he was afraid for her-she had been through so much.
[Kirjath]
Looking behind him, he saw that they were already putting a great distance between the night-lords and themselves yet the pervasiveness of the darkness still clung to the group. Kirjath realized that wherever they were, they would not be alone.
"I don't think that we should separate our group," Kirjath whispered back to Guen. "After this last encounter if one thing is certain is that we will always be followed and watched. We are stronger together than we are apart."
"I hope that the abbey provides some kind of solace for us. Hopefully, the darkness will not be able to penetrate its walls..." he let his voice trail off.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Links)
Herbhome Farm and Hostel
Chapter Three: The Camp
Chapter One: The Gathering
Chapter Two: Seeking Revenge
Chapter Five: The Abbey
Stay with us as the Journey continues!
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