Illusion Vale: A Spirit's Cry

[ultimate_nerdslut]

Fay had been sure that she had hear something and her worst fear was that it was Korin but then L'elal showed up and she was immediately smiling at him. "I am a little lost," she admitted with a soft blush, sure, she felt silly sneaking off and freaking herself out only to be rescued from her own paranoia by a handsome... whatever he was. She had to feel a lot safer with him there... she didn't know what it was but she was comfortable.

"If you wouldn't mind," she said offering him her hand. She tucked her wings back so that she could walk closer to him, could she help that she wanted to be closer to the handsome...

"I'm sorry to seem so rude... but... I don't remember too much from before Faelin found me," she explained. "What are you?" She asked as he led the way. He seemed to know what he was doing and while he was far from anything she had ever really imagined herself with he was exactly what she had always been looking for.

She smiled at Alelia when she was in eyesight.

"I'm sorry... I saw Korin in here so I decided to go back to my tent," she explained to the woman... "But I got lost and was sure that there was something following me but... L'elal showed up and all the bad feelings left," she explained.

"I think I am ready to go back to my tent," she said though her hand was still holding L'elal's. It wasn't like she wanted to take him back but she wanted to keep close to him.

 

[Wolfsister]

Michael/Sila/Durbin

Durbin nodded thoughtfully, rubbing his bearded chin as he looked around the forge. "Blade?" he shook his head, "Not fer one yer size," he looked around some more and then his eyes lit up and he grinned, "But I do 'ave somethin that'd make do before yer had a chance ta forge yer own," he walked over and reached up onto a shelf, feeling around a bit.

Durbin produced a fine looking axe, similar in style to his own hand axes at his waist but with a much longer handle. The blade was double edged and curved in a half moon shape, the handle thick and made of some kind of metal.

"Twas made fer chopping wee trees, but I'm sure yer could find another use fer it?" he chuckled and handed the axe to Michael.

It was just an ordinary axe, still sharp after months on the shelf, but ordinary none the less. Good enough for goblin hacking....

Sila clapped in delight as Michael accepted the axe and she grinned as well, "Now you look like a proper Dwarf!!" she laughed and twirled, Shela smiling at her antics. Then she frowned, "Ummm... can you carry that axe with your... umm... claws?" Sila bit her lip as she asked the most useless question of all. But then she brightened, "Doesn't matter... wait. What?"

The dwarves all laughed at Sila's prettily confused expression and Durbin patted the little fairy on the head, "Best yer stay here lass, we'll get 'im back safely,"

Sila just pouted and crossed her tiny little arms.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Michael hefted the axe, it felt good in his hands. He then concentrated like he had before and felt himself change again, back to werewolf form. The axe felt lighter now, no doubt he was physically stronger as a werewolf. He placed his pipe on a shelf in durbins house and put the axe on his shoulder, baring his fangs. "Lets go kill us some goblins."

 

[EHawkins]

Becca/Kail/Tenesa

Becca felt the imprint of Tenesa’s phantom hand on her shoulder. The sprite’s rosy, loving glow was comforting to her, as they idly chatted. Kail still poured over the map in front of her, oblivious to everything around him.

“Well, I think I’d like to get some sleep.” Becca said. “It looks like Kail and I have a long trip ahead of us.”

“Certainly, my dear.” Tenesa said as she led her to her room.

Becca stepped inside and Tenesa cast her rosy glow across the room. It was quaint and well-kept and reminded her of a cottage.

“Sleep well, Becca. If you need anything don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll be just downstairs.”

The wisp’s soft light faded as the bedroom door closed. The bed looked somewhat small but Becca wasn’t about to complain. She made herself comfortable and pulled the soft, woolen throw around her. She wanted so much to drift off to sleep, but instead of the bustle of New York streets and the 3 a.m. blare of sirens, there was the soft clap of horse’s hooves on cobbles and the gentle ree of crickets at her window.

It was quiet—too damned quiet.

Christ… Becca thought as she stared up at the ceiling. First chance I get to actually sleep, I can’t!

She uttered a wry chuckle at, and laid in bed until quiet darkness finally lulled her into an uneasy sleep.

*****​

Becca woke abruptly to sunlight streaming in from the window and the smell of breakfast. The woolen blanket slid off her smooth, wood-grained skin, as she stretched from what was probably the most decent sleep she’d had in months. She searched around, bleary-eyed, for cigarettes and mumbled something about coffee. When she realized she was still in Tenesa’s house, she gave a harsh sigh. Her body craved its usual breakfast of caffeine and nicotine, and it wasn’t going to get it …

She wandered out to the table where the map was still laid out. Kail hovered over it just as intently as he had last night, and telekinetically slid a plate of food towards her. Downstairs, she heard Tenesa’s cheery voice greet the first few customers of the day.

Becca picked at her food for a moment. The eggs, biscuits, and gravy with generous chunks of meat smelled really good, but it was almost surreal. She wasn’t used to sitting down to breakfast, much less good breakfast.

She took a bite of her eggs, and was thoughtful for a moment as she looked at the map.

I’m off to see the Wizard, I guess…

“So,” Becca said as she took another bite. “Are we good to go?”

 

[Wolfsister]

Eeth/Van/Rolyn/Ilandria

Van stretched, licking lazily at a paw and scratching behind his ear. He looked over at Eeth and recieved a shock when he saw that the elf wasn't in his bed. He mewed in alarm and looked around frantically. The sunlight streaming though the curtains to his left and Eeth's long shadow caught the neko's eye.

He mewed quietly and slid along the floor towards the large open doors and onto the balcony. Sitting on his hind quarters, he licked his paw and watched Eeth come out of his trance.

"Mew? How Eeth do that?" he asked quietly, avoiding the subject of last night's feast.

There was a light knock on the door and Van scampered towards it, opening it with a little mew. Rolyn entered, bowed to them both and told them to get ready. They were late for morning court, but the Queen in her ever patient nature, has held up the court for their arrival. Rolyn pointed towards a chest with clothing and walked out, saying nothing more, waiting outside for them.

Van mewed and cocked his head, ran to the chest and opened it with a puzzled look on his face. Then he suddenly brightened and took out a soft looking white tunic with wide billowing pants. He put them on, proud with the way it made him look. He almost looked noble, almost.

He pulled out some more flashy court clothing and waved it at Eeth, "Queen like white. Van not like queen, Van not make queen angry. She scary...nya?" his wide eyes pleaded with Eeth to change clothing.

 

[blaster8]

Eeth eased out of his trance as Van approached. Eeth looked done at the feline and simply smiled when Van asked how he did that.

Then a knock came at the door. As Van moved to open the door, Eeth walked back into the room from the balcony, closing the doors behind him. Eeth greeted Rolyn, and simply looked amused as Rolyn explained that they were late for court. How was Eeth supposed to know exactly what time he needed to be present? Someone could have come and gotten Eeth and Van earlier, so that would have been on time. Rolyn pointed to a chest then walked out. Inside the chest, as Van discovered, was clothing. Eeth moved over to the chest and examined the various garments, most of which were white. The other garments were not fit for day time use.

Eeth, not particularly interested in wearing white just to please the queen, looked down at his own clothes, and determined that, while slept in, they were quite decent. At least, decent enough for the court of that psychotic queen.

"No, Van, she's not scary. She's what we call back where I come from 'certifiably crazy'. She's lost her mind somewhere back in the past, and due to that, she tends to be unpredictable and thus scary," said Eeth in response to Van's question. "Let us go see what sort of unpredictable things she might do this morning."

Eeth walked outside to the waiting Rolyn. He indictated to Rolyn that he should go ahead and lead on. Moving close to Rolyn, in a quiet voice so that only Rolyn could hear, he said "When we get the chance, Rolyn, I would like to have a few words with you in private." Eeth then moved back a pace or two, allowing Rolyn to lead.

 

[Wolfsister]

Largos/Len/Lizard Men

Len was startled, more than startled when Largos began to scream out in pain. She squawked with panic, flapping her wings as she rested on the branch above him, helplessly watching as Largos was wrapped in torment. She stood watching, her eyes wide with fear as he ripped shreds from the tree she was on. She screeched and wanted nothing than to fly down and hold him, to comfort him in the one way that she couldn't.

"It is alright. There is no need to worry. I will not hurt you."

Len shook her head and her gentle voice entered Largos's tormented mind, "I do not fear for myself. I fear for you," she said softly, concern clear in her voice, as well as a sense of hopeless fear.

"Please no. I do not want this, I never asked to be a vampire."

Her large red eyes looked on sadly as he changed into his night form. She suddenly understood Largos's future and she feared for his sanity. He would be this creature during the night, an elf by day, for whatever was left of his life here in Illusion Vale. Len blinked, a tear forming in the corner of one eye. Then suddenly, he was gone from her vision.

She screeched and called out for him, but where ever he was, he was not listening. She shook her head, banging her beak against the branch she was perched on and lifted up her wings. She took off into the night, searching for her lost charge.

*********​

Razor's armour gleamed in the weak moonlight, the tip of his arrow never wavering as he tracked the beast before him. Razor was an extremely patient man, and it payed being an archer. Some of his kind were more rash than others and he was glad that he had filled his own hunting party with Lizardmen similar in patience to his.

It was then that the vampire stopped, close to him, but thankfully not close enough to smell his tangy scent. He paused, not knowing of Razor's arrow head pointed to his chest. Razor paused also, not wanting to miss the shot. A sudden impatient hiss behind him caught him off guard and he loosed, missing the vampire's heart and striking him in the shoulder instead.

He growled behind him. Similar in patience only. Oh well, now they had to do it the hard way. Or... for some, the fun way. But that didn't mean he couldn't get another shot off. He calmly drew another arrow from his back and began to nock it, drawing attention away from his brethren surrounding the vampire.

He sighted, drew back, aimed and loosed in one fluid movement. Then was yanked off his sturdy tree branch and fell to the ground with a resounding thud. He shook off his hood and glared with pure hatred towards the vampire. This was his territory and the vampire was not welcome to it! Razor got to his feet and in a blink had his sword out. He preferred the long range kill, but that didn't mean he wasn't skilled enough to take out this infant with a blade.

He was soon joined by his pack brothers and the hunting party came out of the bushes around the vampire. They all had similar curved blades to Razor's and he felt sure that though the vampire had speed, they had numbers.

He was ripped from his gloating thoughts as the vampire moved towards him, he calmly brought his sword up, but was surprised to feel the cold bite of death as Largos's blade ripped through his spine. He screamed in agony, half ashamed to admit defeat and half ashamed that he had died so soon. He had always thought archery was better for him. The light in his eyes had not yet even faded before more of his brothers fell around him.

Claron felt sick satisfaction as he avenged his blood brother's death with a swipe at the vampire's back. But his victory was short lived as the vampire whirled around and he felt his claws sink into his scaly skin. He had only a moment to wonder if this was what his brother had felt when he died before his brain ceased functioning and his own heart stopped beating.

The others had no chance and they all realised it just before they too joined their pack brothers in death. One last Lizardman glimpsed black feathers before his eyes ceased to see.

*********​

Len screeched at the top of her voice as she surveyed the scene below. She had only found Largos by following the deathly screams from the Lizardmen. As she had flown frantically towards the battle field, she had had a sinking, sick feeling in the pit of her stomach. She didn't know what was worse, the fact that Largos would win, or that the Lizardmen would.

When she did reach them, what greeted her eyes gave her heart renewed fear. Not for herself, but for Largos. Though he was winning the fight against the others, she could tell that he was losing the fight against himself. She blinked, hot tears flowing from her large red eyes as she screamed inside his head, her voice pleading for him to stop.

When he did, her fear did not lessen, and she watched with sadness as he fed from his fallen foes. She realised that he would need to do this every night for the rest of his natural life... and she would always be there to witness it.

"I have become a monster!"

She shook her head, "No Largos. I will never let you become that, I promise." she whispered gently into his head and led him back slowly to their campsite. She knew the law of this land and she knew that Largos would be attacked again this night, but that did not stop her from having a sleepless night. "You'll feel better tomorrow," she said softly as she flew down into his hands and snuggled against his chest, giving him the only comfort a simple raven could give.

*********​

Talon smiled, his fangs gleaming white in an errant shaft of moonlight. He watched with interest as Largos fought off his latest opponents and he laughed softly to himself. This was good, this was very good. Perhaps he didn't have to finish off the elf at all.

A raven flew in, halting the chaos and he watched with a frown as Largos began to feed. That bird was getting on his nerves. He licked at corner of his mouth where a small hole was slowly healing. He could still feel the sharp claws and beak pecking away at his face. He smiled, his fangs showing maliciously. He laughed softly to himself and disappeared into the night, leaving the newly turned vampire for now.

"Delicious, simply delicious..."

 

[Wolfsister]

Than and Varic

Varic laughed, "You may not be used to the type of women we have around her, friend."

He took a look at the road mark and shook his head, "Sorry Than. Not even the Spirit knows what these marking mean. They're just used these days as a land mark. To the east lies The Tears of the Spirit, to the west lies Spirit Forest. Down towards the south, we'll find South Haven. As to the marker's original purpose, I haven't a clue," he shrugged, "I'm glad I've got a long life, maybe I'll live long enough to figure this thing out too,"

They soon came to South Haven. A great bustling city made predominantly of logs. It was a trading down, one of the major stop overs between Guarden Hall and the rest of the Vale. It made a killing from the wood trade from Neferin, the Dwarves not being able to wood cut themselves. It was just too far way from the mines. The river system running down from the Suvin Lake and into the Tears provided a trading highway for the elvin commodity and what better conservation plan what the elves could implement.

There were many different looking men and women, though they seemed predominantly of the feathery kind. There were some that even had beaks. All different colours and shapes, sizes and ages. It was more like a colourful port town, though the water was about two miles away from the edge of their encampment.

There was a large wooden gate, guarded by two eagle men. They gave Varic a nod and they were let through with out a fuss.

"Now my friend, off we go to a tavern. You must be starving," then he leaned close so that only Than could hear, "Oh and forgot to mention, Giants aren't the brightest of the lot around here, so act the part, will you?"

 

[Wolfsister]

Danae and Sishota

Sishota frowned, "Bilbo? Who is this Bilbo that you speak of? I don't think I know him," she let the selkie have her space and flowed up to a standing position. "I am an Air Elemental and it is true that I cannot be hurt by most physical attacks, I can still be hurt by many other means,"

She shook her head, her voice soft and calming, "It is not just me that needs help, it is all of Illusion Vale. And yes, there are others, but they have been sent on missions of their own," her airy lips smiled, "Divide and conquer, so to speak. Maybe when we travel further on our quest together, we will meet them,"

She smiled gently at Danae again and offered her a wispy hand, "Come, you must be hungry. I have a camp nearby in preparation for you,"

She led Danae to a little camp with a single tent. "You can rest in there if you wish, I prefer the open air." A few dead rabbits were hanging from a horizontal stick. "Do you eat meat?"

 

[Wolfsister]

Janelle and Hiran

Hiran listened impatiently to her rambling on. The sexual pull he felt for her became stronger the more she used her voice and it was starting to really irk him. He was stronger than this, she hadn't been a siren for more than five minutes and he was already being sucked under her spell.

Luckily she didn't seem to notice the affect she had on him, his frown masking the pull of desire he had for her. He shook his head let go of her grip, "I don't really care if I'm your kind or not," though his sculpted body shifted slightly to become more toned and masculine looking, it seemed unconsciously done, "You are far from my kind,"

A violent flash went through his head, an image of her lips on his and he had to physically stop himself from shuddering with pleasure at the thought. Damn siren was using her powers without even realising it! It wasn't his fault he was a male. It wasn't his fault that she could possibly have been the most beautiful creature he had ever seen.

"Gah, Janelle. Seems like a silly enough name to me," It was beautiful, adding to her already alluring state. He straightened up, "Doesn't mean I'm not going to call you fish,"

He gave her a hard look, his eyes getting angrier and angrier as he tried to battle the rising heat in his loins. "Let's walk," he suddenly grated out of gritted teeth. Maybe if he got some food into her, it'd make her stop that infernal chatting. Make her stop heating his blood. Make her stop being so damn sexy!

 

[Wolfsister]

Fay/Faelin/L'elal/Alelia

L'elal blushed slightly in the darkness, luckily the night hid his heated cheeks from Fay as he walked hand in hand with her. He was well aware of Fay's attempt to get closer to him by shifting her wings slightly. She asked what he was and he blinked, never really realising that he would have to explain his race to her. Guess he forgot about the amnesia bit. He kept quiet for a moment and inclined his head, hesitating, "Its a little hard to explain. Even for the Vale, my kind are rare and I prefer not to tell others of my existence," he turned and smiled, "For everybody else, I am Arginian. A race of beings that belong to the forests with sharp teeth and even sharper eyes. But for you, I will not lie," he left it at that and hoped that they would have more time together, alone, for him to better explain.

They soon came in sight of Alelia. He bowed to her and Alelia smiled, secretly pleased that L'elal had come out of his shell for the lovely young Avian. She turned to the Arginian, "Fay is staying in Rinna's old tent. With the old woman gone, I thought to give it good use," she grinned at the two, still hand in hand, "Perhaps you would like to take her there? You know the way,"

L'elal thanked her from the bottom of his heart, but he did it silently and Alelia winked at them both. He fought another blush and led Fay the rest of the way to her tent.

When they were there, he took both of her hands and kissed the tips of her fingertips, "I thank you for your company and your kindness," he paused and looked deeply into her eyes, "Please, tell me when you plan to leave tomorrow, I wish to see you off," he smiled at her, his toothy grin, though slightly scary, was sincere.

Faelin suddenly came out of the dark and yipped a small greeting towards them. Her muzzle was clean of the blood and bone from her feast of the garrot. She bowed her head in greeting towards L'elal and gave them both a suspicious look, then entered the tent and waited for Fay to join her.

L'elal shook his head and laughed at the antics of the wolf, even had he wanted to stay the night, the wolf had robbed him of that opportunity. "She's really sweet when you get to know her," he whispered to Fay. "You're in good hands, trust her judgment. She'll steer you right,"

Then he bowed his head and took his leave. Tomorrow, he would have a surprise for the young woman that took his breath away.

 

[Wolfsister]

Michael/Sila/Durbin

Sila eeked again and Durbin laughed as Michael changed. His little dwarven clothes shredding to make way for his much larger werewolf frame. Sila pouted, "Now we have to find more clothes!"

Durbin chuckled and shook his head, "Ah lass, tis be all good," but it did give him an idea for the werewolf. He'd wait until they returned before speaking of it though. He still needed to work out a few kinks.

Michael bared his fangs and Sila giggled, "You look mean!" she said inconsequentially. Of course he did, he was a werewolf, not a fluffy lapdog! But Sila didn't really seem to see Michael as a threat far removed to that of a mouse.

"Lets go kill us some goblins"

Durbin nodded, carressing the handles of his hand axes. He led the way through the winding city of Guarden Hall, various dwarves joining his ever growing war party as he made his way towards the lower passes.

It took them less then half an hour, using the tunnels underground to surface on a grassy meadow. Several dwarves were there already, dug in deep with crossbows going off every few minutes.

"We've managed ta hold therm off fer some time, but they be pushing mighty hard!" yelled one just before he took a spear between the eyes. Durbin closed his own briefly and ducked to place a strange red dot of ochre at the centre of the fallen dwarf's head.

He said a brief prayer and loosed his hand axes. "What re we doin, hidin 'ere?" he bellowed to his fellows and raised an axe high. The others cheered and followed suit, charging towards the advancing goblin line. Durbin grinned over to Michael, "What re ye waitin fer?" then he was over the trench and hollering in Dwarven tongue various curses on his enemies as he lopped off a goblins head in midstride.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Michael smiled a wolfish smile and felt an overwhelming urge to howl, so howl he did. A long drawn out, bloodcurdling howl. He lowered the axe into a fighting position and charged the goblin line, easily outpacing the dwarves to launch himself into the fight. He swung the axe, sending a goblin flying and howling again. He struck again and again sustaining a few wounds but not bothered by them. He felt a thrill, unlike anything he had felt before. A bestial fury growing with every kill. He embraced it, letting his conscious mind slip as he killed another after a brief flurry of blows. One thought formed before he abandoned his thought processes. I feel the wolf overtaking me, it is a good thing.

 

[Wolfsister]

Becca/Kail/Tenesa

“So. Are we good to go?”

Kail looked up and finally seemed to fully notice Becca. She looked fresh and well rested and she seemed even more beautiful than the day before. She really had grown into this Dryad thing. And he was proud of her.

He 'hmmmed' a little bit and bobbed in the air. "Yes, Becca. We're going to take the Spirit's Road all the way to Vale City. There are little villages and hamlets we can stop at along the way and I'm sure we'll be safe enough on the road," he seemed to dim slightly in embarrassment, "Sorry, it didn't really take all night to figure that out, I just really like looking at maps,"

His voice was cheerful though as he began to gather their things together. "We can buy a horse for you if you'd like," he paused and went to a window, soaking up the morning sun, "Ahhh... delicious as always," he murmured to himself.

"All right... lets see where we can find you a horse if you want one, and then we can be off,"

Tenesa's cheery voice floated up towards them, "I don't know what you're talking about, Captain. I never hold fugitives here,"

Kail seemed to blink, his light rapidly turning on and off as he thought, "What is going on? They can't know that you're a guardian..." he began to mutter to himself and soon heavy footballs pounded on the stairs, Tenesa's rosy glow coming up with them.

The Captain of the Red Guard was a large man, his race unknown for all the armor he held on his tall frame. Two bored looking guardsmen trailed him and his eyes swept the room dramatically. His voice was gravelly and had a tone of impatience as he demanded of the Dryad before him, "What do we have here?"

Tenesa stuttered, trying to draw him away, "Captain, she is a guest of mine. From Abark, a cousin is sick and she brings me news,"

Kail just shone his light over the entire company and tried to calm the Captain down. He didn't know quite what was going on, but he could tell that Becca could get in a lot of trouble if she managed to say something wrong.

"She's mute!" he suddenly shouted, flashing in embarrassment. He floated towards Becca, "I'm sorry darling, I didn't mean to make such a big deal. I find that sometimes people don't hear my voice," he spoke with a delicate tone, as if trying not to offend the Dryad, "Its okay my dear, I'll speak for you. You just tell me what to say with those hand signals I taught you, okay," he spoke softly, as if to a child. A sense of caution flowed over Becca and he hoped fervently that she played along.

Perhaps he should have told her some of the Vale's more recent history....

 

[thanatos64]

Than and Varis

As they approached the town, Than couldn’t help but compare it to a large trading post or rendezvous, as the trappers called them in the days of open prairies and mountain men. He had to admit to his self that he was somewhat impressed.

Varic was right about one thing, he was not used to women folk of this type. In time, he told him self, you will get used to the sight of large birds walking about. Than tried hard not to be caught by the locals ogling at them, relying on his old Navy days in different ports to help him adjust to the different sights and residents of this land.

They approached a gate and he noticed the sentries nod to Varic, eagles, makes sense, he thought, they probably saw us miles away.

He heard Varic say

"Now my friend, off we go to a tavern. You must be starving," then he leaned close so that only Than could hear, "Oh and forgot to mention, Giants aren't the brightest of the lot around here, so act the part, will you?"

He patted his stomach and nod to signal that all was understood. he thought, That shouldn’t be to hard giving the situation.

He slowed his pace, allowing Varic to walk a little in front of him, this would give the towns folk the impression that they were not companions, rather Varic was in command of this big oaf, as well he would be able take in land marks and try to get the lay of the town.

 

[Optimas]

The wolf and day

Dinnie placed the loincloth over himself, he sat down by the fire, and he felt strange. The sun was just about to come up the sky was slowly turning blue, he was just about to talk to Goreab to ask him more questions when he being to itch all over. He began tearing at himself, clumps of his skin started to fall away from his increasing scratching, Dinnie began to scream, but a pain exploded in his stomach. The pain so intense he buckled onto the floor he felt his ribs break, heard them snap in fact, and yet they moved inside him he began to feel different.

His jaw snapped and he looked at Goreab the imp, who looked at him nervously, hopping from one foot to the other. Dinnie looked at his hand his fingers were shrinking, and as he watched claws stretched out of the skin of his fingertips. He tried to scream and a howl echoed across the morning he looked like something out of a horror movie, And the last remnants of Dinnie were gone all that was left was a giant white wolf, with a golden stretch of fur across one eye.

The beast moved onto its feet, unsteady at first then in moments looked unmovable, it sniffed the air the freshness moving deep into the lungs. It let out a sigh and looked around, its eyes locked with Goreab, the white wolf growled a deep menacing sound that seemed to rumble through the ground.

The wolf hunched down and showed its teeth and moved towards the imp, but then it stopped and smelt the air again, it turned on itself and looked down at the loincloth.
With a startling speed the wolf snapped at the cloth and tried to rip it from itself, it twisted and tumbled trying to gain purchase on the cloth. Within a couple of moments the cloth had tangled one of the creatures front paws, and the wolf began the yelp, it was still very confused and tumbled to the ground with a thud.

The wolf growled at the imp but still tried to bite off the cloth, which was biting into the leg now.

 

[ultimate_nerdslut]

She was confused as he spoke of his kind. Rare? Why wouldn't he want people to know, obviously he could take care of himself and he seemed nice enough that people wouldn't want harm to befall him or something... This was going to drive her crazy and of course the more she thought of it the more her mind wandered to what other kinds of things/creatures were living in this land that she had never been in before. "I'm glad you feel like you can trust me," she said sounding genuinely pleased as she gave his hand a little squeeze.

Fay smiled at that wink and when she looked up at L'elal he was... was he? Yes, he was blushing and for some reason, well it was kind of obvious why, it made her blush too. Wow... to think just... well it seemed like years ago in a long lost world, that she had lived with such a man that had betrayed her like that.

She enjoyed their almost silent walk together... simply because it wasn't awkward. she began to compare her 'ex' to this man and knew right away that L'elal was much better and even if nothing ever came of it... and she returned to her world... she would think of him after how nice he had been to her and how he had treated her just like a beautiful woman should be treated. She sighed softly as they arrived and was blushing in pure awe as he kissed her fingertips.

"I should thank you," she said with a smile. "Because... I'm pretty sure that I have you to thank for my safe return to my tent," Fay said with a chuckle. It was right then that Faelin appeared out of nowhere. She laughed at the look that they received and knew that she should join her in the tent. "I will ask my friend when we'll leave tomorrow," she said as if she was in no hurry to leave him.

"I don't doubt it," she agreed as she watched him bow his head and leave. She stood there watching him for a while and finally turned and entered her tent. She let out a long loud sigh as she collapsed on the soft cushioned area that would make up her bed. She smiled before giggling a little as if very very amused by something.

She then looked to Faelin...

"What do you think of L'elal?" She asked sincerely curious. Fay smirked. "I have never met anyone like him...." She insisted before running her fingers through her hair....

"How was your hunt?" She asked as she got back up to remove the clothes that Alelia had given her.

"Of course she said she would give me something more travelworthy," she insisted with a laugh. "She is not a stupid.... whatever she is..." She argued as she laid back on the cushions naked. Fay was sure to cover her body with a light blanket as she laid there.

 

[EHawkins]

Becca/Kail/Tenesa

"Yes, Becca. We're going to take the Spirit's Road all the way to Vale City. There are little villages and hamlets we can stop at along the way and I'm sure we'll be safe enough on the road," he seemed to dim slightly in embarrassment, "Sorry, it didn't really take all night to figure that out, I just really like looking at maps,"

Becca chuckled slightly at that.

He’s a map geek. Cute. she thought, as she brushed back thick cords of dark blonde hair.

Becca watched Kail soak up the sun for a moment. As he did, an orange corona, similar to what she had seen around the children, suddenly flared and grew vibrant amid his bluish glow

Becca marveled at it for a moment. She felt the pulse of Kail’s life as the sun nourished him. Her new instincts told her that the wisp was hale and healthy. There was no sickness or injury to him that she could see with this new sight of hers.

"I don't know what you're talking about, Captain. I never hold fugitives here,"

Becca’s concentration broke at Tenesa’s voice and the sound of heavy footfalls. Kail’s corona suddenly vanished from her view, and her attention snapped to the stairs.

Fugitives? Becca thought. The hell?

Becca stood abruptly as Vakare’s Red Guard entered the upstairs. The lead man was clad in heavy armor, while two others followed behind. She didn’t like the look of them at all.

"What do we have here?"

She was about to say something when Kail zipped in front of her.

"She's mute!" he suddenly shouted, flashing in embarrassment. He floated towards Becca, "I'm sorry darling, I didn't mean to make such a big deal. I find that sometimes people don't hear my voice," he spoke with a delicate tone, as if trying not to offend the Dryad, "Its okay my dear, I'll speak for you. You just tell me what to say with those hand signals I taught you, okay," he spoke softly.

What are you doing, Kail! Becca wanted to snap at the wisp.

He had suddenly rendered her mute to the Captain, and she felt a strong sense of caution washing over her from Kail. The game was set and she had no choice but to play along.

Becca gave the Captain a cool look. She wasn’t going to let the likes of him intimidate her. She crossed her arms, and sighed annoyed as she looked over at Kail who hovered near her shoulder. She hooked her index finger and drew it down her jaw line in a sharp, angry motion towards Kail for mentioning to the Captain that she was mute.

Whatever you have planned, Kail Becca thought as her hands started to work in a flurry of signs that mimicked clips and bits of sign language she’d seen before. It better work.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw two guards who casually blocked the stairs. If she had to run, she was pretty sure she wasn’t getting around them.

They think I’m a fugitive or something? What the hell is going on? I just got here! Maybe they’ve mistaken me for someone else?

Becca had no choice but to put herself in her guide’s hands, as she continued to sign nonsense. Occasionally, she paused so Kail could translate to the Captain …

 

[Dracona]

A walk along the shore....

Janelle watched Hiran walk away over the sand and for a moment thought to just let him go. After all, this was her whatever it was, she didn’t need a grumpy old…..

“Hiran, wait!” She jumped up and hurried after him, catching his hand in both of hers. She smiled sweetly and skipped along beside him. “Don’t be angry. I’m sure there’s a reason you’re here, some psychological whatcha’macallit I don’t understand. I like this place though, it’s really pretty. When I was a kid we used to go camping by the lake back home every chance we got. I spent more time in the water during the summer than I did on land.”

“I miss those times, back before things got complicated.” She slowed her pace but held fast to Hiran’s hand slowing him as well. Her smile faded a bit and her dark blue eyes took on a more liquid shine. She blinked several times and took a deep shuddery breath, then she smiled brightly up at Hiran again.

“I didn’t really mean it, you know….about you not being my type.” It puzzled Janelle that the nicer she acted toward him, the angrier Hiran seemed to get. But for some reason she just couldn’t help herself. She slid her hands up Hiran’s arm and hugged it as they continued walking. “How can I say that when I’m not really sure who or what you are?? So tell me all about yourself and then we can at least be friends…can’t we?”

 

[Wolfsister]

Eeth/Van/Ilandria/Rolyn

"When we get the chance, Rolyn, I would like to have a few words with you in private."

Rolyn just barely inclined his head in acknowledgment. He had been planning such a conversation with the young elf himself and was pleased inwardly that the other had shown such initiative.

He led them quietly through the maze of tree walks and soon they were on an open platform, much like the one last night for the feast, but wider, more formal looking. It had various banners ribboning in the wind on either side, with a long seated area cut out of the side of a huge oak tree to the left. It could have easily fitted 50 or more elves, but today it only seemed half full. Rolyn eyed the council seats uneasily, with half missing he wasn't sure how the Queen would react, but then again she had tolerated their minor mutiny for the moment.

As always, Ilandria's sycophantic 'friends' were hovering near the wooden throne on all sides of the queen herself. He took Eeth forwards and stopped a few feet from the raised dais. He bowed stiffly and intoned, "Eeth Odok and Van Carsa from the Mellows," he gestured to them and Van took a sort of cat like bowed position, but his furious scratching made it impossible for it to look the least bit regal.

Rolyn's mouth twisted into a half smile at that, but he was careful not to let it show.

Ilandria surprised Rolyn by standing and inclining her own head towards their little group. He hid his shock well by bowing his head in turn once again. His mind furiously working, trying to predict Ilandria's next move.

Ilandria seated herself once again and one of her ladies in waiting started fanning her casually with a large leaf. Today she had opted to wear, in the same shredded style, a gown of blue. In fact, it was a rare day that she didn't wear blue. Some had commented that she looked like the Spirit incarnate the way that she dressed. She would just get a strange look on her face and pass on without saying a word.

"Eeth Odok," her voice soft and sweet as always, "I trust you are well rested?" She did not wait for an answer and instead when on, "Today's main agenda, my darling, is you," her strangely vacant eyes centered on him and Van whimpered. It was passing strange that Van was so quiet... and so still, except for some occasional scratching.

Ilandria raised one hand as if for silence, though none had spoken. Rolyn stood tensely at Eeth's side, having not been dismissed. Ilandria's eyes seemed to just slide over him as they had over Van the night before. It seemed that the Queen of Neferin chose to see what she wanted to see, and for now, Rolyn was all but invisible to her.

A deep sadness and a long suffered grief fought to overtake the proud Elf, but he pushed his feelings down like he always had and continued to stand where he was. He would not leave, she would have to order him to and even then, he wasn't sure he would.

Rolyn had an urge to laugh harshly. To be in love with a madwoman was to be mad yourself. But damn it, he was mad and he didn't give a damn. He looked out of the corner of his eye towards Eeth and once again had to push his feelings down hard as petty jealousy reared up inside him. If this elf could help his love, he would not stop it. But he didn't have to like the fact that he couldn't do it himself.

Ilandria spoke again, her voice softly hushed, almost ethereal, "Eeth Odok, you are a Guardian, yes? And you were sent here to help Illusion Vale back into the Eternal Peace, yes?" she didn't require an answer and would just override anything Eeth said at this point, "I must tell you that this is not the first time a Guardian was sent to us to 'help' us," her eyes deepened with sorrow and her voice changed, becoming lower, "Sadly, he failed miserably and only served to bring more evil into this world."

She stood looking down onto Eeth, "I never want that to happen ever again. We do not need a Guardian in this place," all of a sudden, her demeanor changed and her shoulders hunched slightly, her smile of benevolence changed to a sneer and her voice became higher pitched, "You, Eeth Odok, are sentenced to death by beheading. The charge being a disturbance to the peace of Neferin and a threat to Illusion Vale!" Her shouted proclomation echoed across the trees in utter silence. Not even the wind stirred.

Van whimpered, breaking the momentary spell and Ilandria whirled around, stepping down from the dais and finally noticing Rolyn. "Take him away and deal with it," she muttered darkly to him, "Don't fail me again, love," then she was gone once again, even her loyal servants cowering in fear as they rushed after her.

Rolyn bowed his head and turned to the startled Eeth, "Don't struggle," he said low under his breath, "I can't explain now, but you must let me do this," he took Eeth's arms and muttered, a string of tough vines curled around Eeth's wrists. They resembled wood but felt like metal. Another elf also tied Van's hands with the same method.

"Trust me," Rolyn whispered to Eeth as he led him away.

 

[Wolfsister]

Michael/Durbin/Sila

Durbin fought furiously. He handled a pair of spear wielding goblins with ease, laughing harshly with battle lust shining in his eyes. This was what Durbin was made for. True, he was handy in the forge, one of the best. But when it came to battle, Durbin was home. His twin hand axes flashed bright in the sunlight, streaked with blue grey blood. He shouted various battle cries and the sight of him taking down his foes was enough of a boost for his fellow dwarves as they battled the ferocious and never ending onslaught. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he wondered just why there were so many goblins around. They usually only raided in small parties of twenty or so, but this was getting to be in the hundreds.

Pretty soon, even though the battle lust pumped in his veins, Durbin felt fatigue pull at his over extended muscles. He felt he heavy blades in his hands and it was an effort to keep moving. He reverted from picking his targets to just hacking away at anything faintly blue grey in front of him, whether it be limbs, heads, or bodies. He was battle numbed and he knew that even he wouldn't be able to last much longer.

He turned his head as a flash of red appeared by his side and took care of a few goblins that he hadn't been aware of. He nodded his thanks as the red flash moved on. Dimly, he had just enough time to admire the sheer brutality of the werewolf and to thank the gods that he had shown up when he did. This task would have far more of his brothers it it hadn't been for the muscle power of the wolf.

All of a sudden Durbin was standing in the middle of the field, his harsh breath the only sound immediately near him. Groans of both friend and foe reached his ears and he blinked through a haze of blood to see that the battle was over. Many were not standing, but those that were looked as he imagined himself looking. Dazed and confused.

One strange thing struck him... none of the livestock were touched.

But his mind was too numb to fully register the fact and he turned to face his brothers. Raising his two axes, he summoned just enough voice to roar in triumph. The surviving dwarves answered the cry with their own.

***********​

Cloaked figures slipped through the small hole drilled into the wall. It was a tight squeeze but they knew better than to complain. Their faces were covered with thick cloth and their feet slippered to make less noise. They slipped through Guarden Hall with a stealth that was unnatural to their race. Their usual garbled chatter muted to a bare minimum of hasty whispers as they searched for their objective.

Her jovial singing was the first sign that they were on the right track. They paused, letting a pair of rowdy dwarves pass, stuck to the shadows and slinked into a large forge.

Sila floated above another female dwarf. Their backs turned to the cloaked strangers as they both bent over a bubbling pot of lamb stew. The fairy giggled as the dwarf said something and the group behind them crept up to grab the pair.

Two struggled with Shela as she kicked and attempted to scream and fight off the goblins with their hands clamped over her mouth. She was much stronger than she looked and a third had to come over and help.

Sila managed a confused 'oh' before she was quickly bound by chains on her ankles and her wrists. A thick silver dust was sprinkled over her wings, rendering them useless for the time being. Then she was tumbled into a sack filled with an orange dust. The dust worked like chloroform and the little fairy was soon out like a light.

The three still struggling with Shela recieved a shock as she suddenly drove a little dagger into the heart of one of their group. The goblin didn't make a noise as he crumpled to the ground. Shela soon joined him, a nasty blow to the head knocking her out.

The goblin hefted the heavy club once again, but the others shook their heads. Their mission was too important to allow time for petty revenge. They would find the dwarven woman again and avenge their brother at a later time. For now, they had to leave. Unfortunately, the dead goblin did not make the return journey with them.

***********​

Shela shook her head groggily and found herself in the weary arms of her husband. Durbin looked down at her with fear and concern in his eyes, an anger blazing deep in the depths of his soul.

Shela quickly looked around and she paled visibly, "They took Sila!"

 

[Wolfsister]

Than and Varic

Varic was silently impressed at just how fast Than seemed to adapt to his surroundings. He supposed that his life before coming here helped him to mellow out a little. He knew that most of what Than was seeing now would be very different from what he was used to. Especially since there were so many different races around. He knew that nothing resembling what the Guardians looked like before hand was around, they simply would not be able to survive in the Vale. So everything and everyone around here would be so very new to the giant.

He nodded back at Than, impressed again when he took a few paces back and let Varic lead. He had been about to suggest the move himself, but unlike his Illusion Vale brothers, Than was rather intelligent.

Perfect, thought the elf to himself.

He led Than towards a brightly coloured Inn named the Fish Tail. He opened the door and let Than pass before going in himself. It looked much like any other Inn, though it would probably be new to Than. In fact, though it catered occasionally to the more wealthy patrons of the city, the Fish Tail was more suited to those that did not want to draw much attention.

Kind of hard with a giant buffoon behind me, Varic thought to himself, grinning at the possibly that Than could be even slightly dimwitted. It seemed like he had gotten a very suitable partner in this endeavor to save this precious land. His mother's life did depend on their success, after all.

He gestured to a near by bench and sat opposite, ordering two rooms, one fit for a giant, and one for himself. An elf would never openly share a room with one of Than's kind. Then he ordered a large meal and didn't bother about the cost. He had money... but right now he was more interested in his new friend.

"Here we can get more supplies and buy some horses for our journey," he spoke softly. Louder, for the benefit of fellow patrons, he said, "For the Spirit's sake, chew your food!"

 

[blaster8]

Eeth was absolutely stunned. He had expected something crazy from the elf queen, but he sure as hell didn't expect a death sentence. He just stared with a blank expression on his face as his hands were bound. He was too stunned to resist or do anything other than be led away by Rolyn.

It was a few minutes before his brain began to function properly once again, and he registered what was happening and what had been said. It finally got through to his stunned mind that Rolyn seemed to have some sort of plan that could be beneficial to Eeth.

In a stunned voice, too low to be heard beyond Rolyn, who was leading Eeth, he said "What ever you have in mind, it better not get me killed."

 

[Wolfsister]

Dinnie and Goreab

Goreab was waiting for the feel of fangs biting into his exposed neck the entire way back to camp. He cringed with ghostly pain as he kept touching the side of his neck, checking that there was no blood there from an attack. Of course it was all in his mind whenever Dinnie did attack him and he would just shake himself out of his walking nightmare and check his neck again.

He chattered nonsense to himself the entire way back and built a small fire. The cold didn't really bother him, though his teeth chattered constantly, but seeing the small blaze comforted him somewhat.

He took another scraggy loin cloth from a pack buried in the ground, Goreab loved burying things, and put it on, not bothering to shake out the dirt. He sat opposite Dinnie and soon had himself in a Spirit loving trance.

He quickly shook out of it when Dinnie begain tearing at his own skin, pulling large clumps of his own flesh off. White fur showed beneath and Goreab began chattering in his own little nonsense language again. His voice gradually getting louder and louder with his mounting fear.

The Dinnie/wolf began growling at him and suddenly snapped at the old loincloth wrapped around its leg. Goreab blinked and suddenly laughed out loud, his previous fear gone. The wolf looked funny! Rolling around in the dawn light, struggling to get the cloth off, it only served to tangle itself even more.

Goreab moved with surprising speed and plucked the cloth from the struggling wolf. He chuckled to himself and waved a finger infront of the wolf's golden eyes, "Bad wolfy wear Goreab's clothes!" he cackled even louder and shook his head, tears coming from his eyes.

What a strange, strange imp.

 

[Wolfsister]

Fay/Faelin/L'elal

Faelin considered the question carefully. Being able to distinguish between races very well due to her animal senses, she knew what Lee really was. But he had chosen to show himself in a particular form and unknowing about his promise to tell Fay what he really was, she decided to give him the lie.

"He is nice enough. A dependable man, not sure what he would be like as a mate," she said bluntly, eyeing the young woman as she took her dress off and settled down for sleep. Faelin lay on her belly near Fay and gave her another curious look, "What mate would you like? If I know, I can tell you if he would make you happy,"

The wolf had no sense of shame.

**********​

L'elal, Lee for short, walked to his own tent in the dark. Smiling and chuckling to himself, he was unusually less alert than he would have been. But luckily Korin lost his courage at the last moment and turned away, leaving Lee in peace.

Lee ducked inside his tent and blinked slowly, getting accustomed to the dim light from the single lantern on the bedside table. He looked around his home away from home and once again said silent thanks to Alelia for her generosity in allowing him to stay for such long periods of time. She was truly Spirit Sent.

He went to a small chest and began rummaging around, searching for a gift for Fay. Something that was both perfect for her beautiful personality and also would be useful for her trip to Abark. His voidal eyes suddenly lit up white as he lucked onto an object.

He took it out and laid it across his knees, smiling with guenine pleasure. This was perfect. But, there were some touches to be made. He took the knife he had taken from Korin earlier out and began carving the smooth wood to his liking.