Ruins of Innocence

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis: ...The thugs laughed at me as I stepped from the shadows letting the young woman they hard started to abuse drop to the dirt and refuse that littered the alleyway.
"A young pup barking at his betters, eh?" remarked the largest of them, standing just over seven feet tall, his scarred minotaur features drawing back in a sneer of superiority.  The others were a mix of humans who had few talents aside from bullying and even fewer wits, and other less than reputable races that dealt in blood and pain, all for the highest bidder, or in fear of those even more dangerous than themselves.  There were always such gangs and gatherings, from the slums of the larger cities to the outskirts of trade towns where those less fortunate inevitably gathered.

"Leave her alone," I repeated quietly, standing my ground even as the first three thugs moved closer, two with crude bludgeons, the last with a rust pitted short sword that looked more like an over sized knife in the ham sized fist carrying it.
"What're ya gonna do if we don't jus leave 'er alone?" the apparent leader snorted, eyes narrowing with a wicked gleam as the promise of further bloodshed brightened his mood.

"You will find out sooner than you might like if you don't listen," I told him, keeping a blank expression on my face, even as I felt the excitement stir in my companions mind.
"They're getting ready to rush you," Nyxis sent to me, the sultry tones of her thoughts like an excited caress along my back.  I didn't reply, keeping focused on those before me, yet knowing after five years, she was far from wrong when it came to assessing combat situations.
"Last warning-"
The smaller of the three brutes leaped at that moment, his cudgel whistling through the air in a backhand swing, face a hideous mockery of manic glee.  Ducking, I let myself fall forward past him, one hand touching his shadow as I felt the silent surge of power flow from Nyxis.
"Devour!"
The human's curse at missing me changed to a scream of panic as his shadow suddenly gained substance and lashed out with inch thick tendrils to grapple with him.  Directly beneath him, a split formed, ringed by wicked pointed teeth that gleamed blue in the light emanating from the void maw.  The screams redoubled as he was yanked down towards it, joined by the sound of breaking bone and torn flesh before cutting off abruptly.

Getting back to my feet, I turned to the thugs, my expression grim even as I noted their expressions were a mixture of stark terror, surprise, and rage.
"Bastards a fucking warlock!" Shouted one of the men near the back, falling on his ass in shock, eyes wide and staring.
"Attack him together!  He can't cast spells on all of us at the same time!" The minotaur shouted, taking a cat-o-nine-tails from his belt and whipping the others into action around him.  They moved slowly to obey, but eventually they worked up enough courage to rush me.

"Now?" Nyxis whispered, even though she had already gathered herself for an attack.
"Yes," I replied with a mental sigh, bracing myself for what was to come.
The area darkened, plunged into unnatural night even in the middle of the day.  The shadows thickened and congealed, slowing the progress of my would be attackers as my companion acted.  Time seemed to slow and I felt the beginings of the strain start along my right arm, a tingling numbness that slowly started to spread.

There was no sympathy for them, not pity, but we would at least grant them a quick death.  One by one, arms made from patches of starry night appeared from behind them, the many fingered and taloned hands taking careful hold of the heads, necks, and throats of those who were now victims, almost tenderly.
The numbing sensation was now traveling down the right side of my body and across the back, feeling more like pins and needles.  I nodded once and and the hands acted.  Throats were ripped out, necks snapped, and on the minotaur who had so carelessly threatened the woman and myself; the horns were ripped off and driven through his eye sockets, the tips emerging from the back of his head.

The bodies were allowed to fall, and eventually faded away with the darkness, the only traces of any conflict having happened being the spatters of blood on the ground and stray bits of flesh.  Staggering, I reached out for the wall and felt someone take hold of my arm.
"Sethis?"
"I'll be fine.  Check on her," I replied to Nyxis, looking up at her and glad that she thought to assume her humanoid form. Dark skinned almost to the point of being obsidian, her hair was platinum blond and tightly braided against he scalp, the braids meeting and being rewoven into further designs once past her shoulders.  Black silk dress hung loosely over her body, barely concealing any of her feminine attributes.
"Always the charitable one," she remarked, her smile hinting at the true pride despite the sardonic tone of her words.

The woman was clutching at the remains of her clothing, badly torn and covered with filth.  Her eyes were wide with disbelief, and though her mouth worked to say something, no words came out.  Aside from a few bruises starting and a thin trickle of blood, I couldn't see any other injuries, nor did I sense any as Nyxis helped her up.  They shared a quiet conversation while I caught my breath, slowly flexing my right arm to regain feeling which was a slow process in and of itself.

After a few moments, the woman shook her head and ran towards the opposite end of the alley and out of sight.
"Well?"
"She won't talk, and even if she did, there's no one who would believe her," Nyxis replied, approaching me and placing a steadying hand on my shoulder.
"Did you-"
"Yes, I made sure that she couldn't see or hear anything after the first one," she told me, nodding a little.  "And a couple silver sovereigns to aid her."  I had to smile at how well she knew me, and for all the viciousness that Nyxis could do to others, she had a sense of gentleness that still took some getting used to.

I still didn't understand how an entity such as she had come to me, or how we had become bonded, but it wasn't something I spent a great deal of time questioning.  As traveling companions went, she was better than the few I had encountered while serving in trade caravans in order to get from one place to another.  Speaking of which...

"Shall we head back onto the road?" She asked, reading my mind and grinning with an impish gleam in her eyes.
"We'll have to in order to avoid the guards," I told her, turning back the way we had come and heading out of the small trade town.  "Besides...after that mess you made-"
"Mess?!  MESS?!" she nearly screamed, her face a look of mock horror and indignation.  I grinned and the banter began as we trailed behind a cart heading for the open expanses of the plains, and wherever our feet carried us...

[Cynergi]

The Northern Plains. A vast expanse of field and forest that stretches for what seems an eternity. In the distance were the Frozen Mountain. Believed to be the home of Karea the goddess of winter and mother to all. Very few roads traverse The Northern Plains and all lead to one place. The grand capital city of Penny Falls home of the Thunderhoof Tribe rulers over these lands. Penny Falls is three days ride from the southern most border of the plains and is near impossible to reach from the northern without daring the severe rigors of the Frozen Mountains.  The Frozen Mountains offer no solace to those brave enough or stupid enough to face them. 200 years ago the powerful Unagi Tribe sought to take Penny Falls and the whole of the Northern Plains for their own. An army of 20,000 wolves attempted to take the paths of the mountains to launch a surprise attack that would have taken the city in one crushing blow. That army, every soul rumored, never arrived nor returned. No one went to search and so those wolves remain buried in their tombs of ice and snow somewhere along the paths no soul dares to tread.  Beyond those mountains lies the Far Northlands home to the Unagi Wolf tribe along with many others. Three weeks journey around the mountain range merely to set foot in lands contested constantly by the savage wolf tribes that make their homes there. To the south of the Frozen Mountains is the Forest Of Green Glade. A dense and lush forest it is the largest in the Northern Plains and home to many creatures both good and evil. Further south are the wide open fields of Rolling Knolls with it's panoramic view of the forest and the mountains. It is here that one would also find the city of Penny Falls built over and in the Great Rain Falls. The falls, themselves, a creation of an ancient, now dormant, volcano. Penny Falls is actually built within the falls themselves and cresting over the very top of them. Those who make the long journey to reach the city are treated to a wondrous splendor like no other. The Temple Of The Four Winds stands proudly high above the sheer banks of the falls overlooking the expanse of the Rolling Knoll below with a breath taking view of the land. The Temple sits on a great stone archway the reaches more than two miles from one bank to the other and is high enough that any manner of tall ship would be able to slip under it though no ship ever would try as they would be victim to the falls for such an attempt.

The warm wind blows calmly over the fields of green grass and various colors of flowers. Unusual for the season, but welcomed none the less. Perfect for a long day's travel heading southward. Two days so far and the longest part of the journey to the border today. I would not be able to stop for rest until nightfall. It was now important to reach one of several towns long this route in order to seek a safer haven then remaining out under the stars tonight. Many roving gangs of bandits stalked the area at night looking for easy prey. It was worse in the sense that I am alone on this journey. I chose this, but it still wasn't easy for me to go without an escort for such a long time. The two nights had been near sleepless. Jumping almost out of my own skin at every slight rustle in the trees or the chirp of all manner of bird or noise of creature. Dressed as a simple traveler I wore a heavy brown cloak with hood over lightly padded leather armor given me by the Paladin Perrine (pronounced Pear-een) for protection. How I love that Perrine. She was always at my side whenever I needed her, but she was forbidden from following me...this time. It caused her great pain to see me leave alone two nights ago. This journey was something I needed to do alone. My father, Wynstar Thunderhoof, was insistent on my venturing out into the world. As leader of our tribe it was his right to do so even against my mother's word. My Mother, Elara Primrose is the Grand Priestess of the Four Winds Temple, and very protective of her only child. She wished for me to stay in service to Karea and to the temple. How utterly dull that sounded. After much consideration I decided to venture out into the world. Visit the other temples across the land and learn the cultures of this world. I did not go unarmed though. No. Father would not have that at all. Aside from my wooden staff I had his parting gift strapped to my left hip well hidden by the cloak. His sword, Elder Edge, was now mine. This blade was as old as the City and had been the possession of it's rulers in generations past. It was mine by right of succession as father bore no male heirs. As a Priestess of the temple I would have forbidden this weapon, but I have willingly left the temple. Mother, merely as precaution, stripped me of my title and status though I still retain my power of rank and my magic abilities as a Healer of Wind.

My hooves fall silently upon the dirt road as is the ability of those of my kin. I am unicorn. All that can be seen of me under my hood is the tip of my rounded snout and that of the golden horn from my forehead. I move steadily and straightforward. I really should learn to walk without such measured steps as I could be giving myself away easily to those with eyes for details. The pack upon my back carries supplies for a three day journey. Having to walk I needed to remain light so I will be forced to rely on moving from one town to the next until I can find other means of travel. I stay tucked with the heavy cloak avoiding exposing myself too much. I cannot afford to be discovered out here. Unicorns are prized for being rare. The members of my tribe are the only ones in all the lands and we seldom, if ever, leave our own borders. This will be the first time anyone in my bloodline has left the homelands willingly in nearly 300 years. That thought kind of scares me now. My first night out I did my best to keep the City within site. Kind of hard being Penny Falls resides in the falls themselves upon a massive cliff hundreds of feet off the ground. Only the Four Winds temple was visible from a distance. I had moved slowly that first day, but had picked up my pace with some vigor the next. I feel in my heart this journey is right though I strongly wish to return to the safety of the city. That thought makes me stop dead in my tracks and ponder turning back. How pathetic that I have come this far and now I yearn to turn my head to look back. I steal my heart for a moment and resume striding forward. This time adding some slop to my step to freshen the pace. The road ahead seems welcoming and I use that to strengthen my resolve even if just a little............

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis:  Barely a day away from the trade town we had left and  there was little on the plains to hint at others traveling.  No smoke or fire lights in the night, not even the sound or sight of caravan lanterns weaving through the early dawn or settling dusk as I continued to walk.  The cart had turned off the faint road only an hour after leaving town, heading to a distant farm at a slow rolling pace.

Nyxis had abandoned her human form once both were out of sight and vanished into my shadow, a place that to her was 'between places'.  I didn't understand what she meant, but all that mattered was she was still able to help me and follow along, while giving the impression that I was alone.  The fact that I still felt her presence was reassuring, and that was all that mattered.

It was a beautiful if solitary day, the sun already high with a gentle cool spring breeze playing amongst the knee high grasses of the plains surrounding us.  My cowl was up to keep the sun out of my eyes, giving me a better chance to take note of our surroundings, not that there was much aside from the an occasional feral coyote, pheasant, and even the odd group of bison.

I took a strip of dried meat from my satchel and started chewing on it slowly, taking things in when I noticed a familiar sensation making itself known.  A slight tugging, as if a small hook in my guts were pulling me to the northwest, gently, but insistently.
"Nyxis.."
"I feel it," She replied instantly, an image of her forming in my minds eye, staring in the same direction I was being pulled.
"Danger?"
"Uncertain...but we both know we have to follow the guidance regardless," Nyxis told me, 'turning' to look at me, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder.
"I just hope its not another fight," I muttered, shaking my head and shuddering as the sensation in my guts intensified while I hesitated.
"If it is, we'll-"
"Survive or die...Just once though I wish I knew why we keep getting dragged into such situations," I told her, sighing as I put the rest of the jerky away and continued walking, changing my direction just enough to follow the 'pull'.
She said nothing, but I knew from her regretful emotions that she wanted to tell me...something.  She knew on some level but nothing that could be expressed with words.  Giving her a comforting mental embrace, I raised my head and kept an eye open...

...Two hours later I finally spotted a figure following a larger road/path through the plains ahead of us.  At the distance, I couldn't tell much aside from the brown hooded cloak worn, and the easy grace the traveler seemed to move with.  Either an exiled noble I guessed or possibly a weapon master.
"Well?"
"Not much i can tell you except...there are traces of divine magick about this one," Nyxis informed me, and rather than explaining further, allowed our visions to overlap so I could see the blue white aura of energy surrounding the figure.
"Templar?" I remarked, more to myself than my companion.  Nyxis seemed doubtful, and I had to agree.  Most Templar's traveled in groups associated with whatever sacred number or teachings their deities held dear.  The aura also seemed to be far too strong to be that of a holy warrior.
"Cleric?"
"If I had to hazard a guess, yes," I nodded, slowly moving to the road so I could meet the figure.  The 'tugging' sensation had grown stronger, and for whatever reason, seemed to indicate the traveler ahead.  "Are you sensing any unease or pain?"
"From it?"
"No...to yourself."
"...Slight....but not painful," She admitted at last.  "Be careful..."
"I'll try," I whispered, shrugging back my cloak so my arms and hands were visible, as well as the large dagger I carried.  Holding my hands at my sides with palms forward, I waited for the traveler to approach, hoping that this wasn't going to lead to another fight and again thankful that Nyxis could help if it came to that.

[Cynergi]

A figure not far ahead. Could barely make out who or what it was. Smells human even from this range, but somehow seems different. Not sure how. I refrain from making any noticeable movement. First thought is defense. What do I have and what can I use. No shortage there. Wards, shields, and even some illusion spells easily cast on the fly. The sword? No. That sword should never be drawn if it can be helped. No good will ever come of that. My stride is unchanged and unwavering. Heart races and feels like it is about to jump into my throat. Then.....a change in the wind. Shifting from being behind me to blowing ahead of me. Karea? My imagination? Always hard to tell at first. The wind no longer favors either of us right now. Is it....is it blocking me? Karea has odd ways....vague ways of guiding people. She loves to watch her "children" try and figure it out on their own. Still. I need to remain vigilant. Oh goddess please just let this one pass by. I honestly didn't need this right now. Not when I have just started. I can already hear mother "I told you that you were not ready for such foolish endeavors, Elita. You have too much of your father in you. Always prone to such foolish thoughts." ringing in my ears. Hands off the sword and swaying at my side I lower my head as much as I can to prevent myself from being seen by this person I now approach. By the gods I am almost on top of him now. Mentally I ready a spell called Karea's Barrier.

Karea's Barrier - The most potent and powerful barrier spell in Elita's arsenal. This spell, when properly cast, creates a dome of wind around the caster that prevents any and all physical attacks from penetrating through to cause the caster any harm. However, this spell drains the caster of both magic and physical energy at a slow pace and cannot stop magical attacks unless such magic causes indirect effects (I.e elemental magic using rocks to cause injury or the use of fire to try to burn the caster either by direct contact or maybe cause a burning tree to fall.). The caster must remain focused through the use of the spell and is unable to move. Breaking the concentration of the caster or causing them to move will break the spell. Prolonged use will eventually drain the caster causing the barrier to fail. Anyone trying to attack this nearly invisible barrier with be thrown back violently by a sheer and powerful gust of freezing wind usually knocking weapons and shields out of the attackers hands.

I refrain from any further action and simply stride calmly up toward this human alongside the road. Fearful of any confrontation as I do so.

(Quick note: Any Spell Elita uses will be described along with  any effect, both direct and indirect

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis: "Greetings!" I called out once the figure was about twenty feet away from my, using the common tongue since I had no idea of what other language they might speak.  "How fare you this fine day?"

I kept my posture as non threatening as possible, taking in all I could about the stranger ahead of me, noting that the clothing and hints of leather armor I could see was of good quality, and without any signs of prolonged wear and tare.  The wind shifted suddenly and before I could react, my cowl was flipped back off of my head, causing me to squint my eyes a moment until I could get used to the light.  I didn't bother to bring my hood back up, as the damage was already done so to speak, my right eye would stand out like a sore thumb once the figure was close enough to notice it.  The 'tugging' sensation stopped and I waited for some form of response...

[Cynergi]

Keeping my head low and that spell at the ready. I stopped about twenty feet away when the human, now standing, before me spoke up. The wind fading away slowly I caught the smell of him. Where had he been. That certainly was the smell of one fresh from a bath. There was blood on him. Faint, but the scent lingered around him. Maybe the sword wasn't such a bad idea after all, but it was too late now. One wrong move and we'd both regret it. I could also see the evidence of battle on his face. I curse myself lightly under my breath for being in this situation.

"Greetings" Squeaky reply.

Not used to talking to strangers. Life in the temple and around my father's estate had not done as much as I would have hoped to prepare me for this type of thing. Still....it would have happened eventually so why not now?

"I fare well, stranger. How fares thee?" Sounding more like a timid foal that time.

The breeze between us must have been meant to stop me. Either that or reveal his face. Hard to tell as both had happened nearly the same time. It had died down now and resumed it's original direction towards a town not too far off from here if I remembered the map correctly. Stealling a look at him from under my own heavy hood. Something still felt very off and I kept right on hoping it was nothing more than imagination.

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis: "As well as can be expected," I said, my voice a soft light baritone, pitched just enough to carry, noting that the stranger was actually a female, possibly equine from the small amount of her face that I could see under the hood of her cloak.  The timid nature of her speech indicated that she wasn't used to speaking with strangers, though her voice sounded as if she might be well educated.

I took a few slow steps towards her, giving a slight smile in hopes to reassure her.  "Though if I may say so...you seem a little nervous and unsettled...Traveling long?"  Slowly, I pulled my dagger from its sheath and allowed it to fall to the ground, stepping back a little as another token of safety from me.
"Sethis...." my companion whispered mentally, concern flowing through the bond we shared.
"I think she's more afraid of me than we are of her," I replied.
"Not her....someone's approaching from the west...a group of riders," Nyxis informed me, her energy coiling in worried anticipation.
"How many?"
"Twelve at least...fast...at least three kilometers away...They're riding Slaug," she finished with a hiss, anger and revulsion surging from her.  My head snapped to the west as I realized just what Nyxis has told me.

Slaug were six legged reptilian creatures, just slightly larger than feral horses, with a set of jagged horns rising up from the tip of their beaked snouts.  Vicious and unpredictable at the best of times, only the most ruthless could use them as mounts, which meant either members of a large bandit clan, or Grelisalfar (The Twisted Ones).
"We have to get off the road and hide!" I said, moving to quickly retrieve my dagger and backing away from the female, towards the east edge of the road.  "Quickly!"

[Cynergi]

I eye the dagger and remain silent. Discarding a weapon meant nothing. He could have others and there was just something....off about him. I had noticed he seemed like he was drawn away to something briefly more than once. No matter. I had little time to be concerned with this.

"I have been traveling...." Why could I not sound like I was ready to piss myself?

I was cut off by his sudden head jerking. It had happened again. Whatever kept drawing him away had happened again. This time, though, it came with warning. I pondered what he may be up too then it dawned on me. The sudden shift in the wind. It had been at my back, but now it drew to the north. It hadn't been to stop me. It had been to mask my scent. Not from the human, but something far more dangerous I froze in my tracks. Was this some ploy? Lure me to the side of the road or force me to hide feigning the dashing hero or the helpful traveler then sic his approaching friends on me? In any case I was out in the open and that didn't bode well. The wind! Being out of sight wasn't going to be enough! I needed to be upwind as well. I shift to my right hoof and dart to the edge of the road breaking into a quick sprint in the short grass following the wind. Thank Karea. A few yards away there were some tall shrubs. Not the greatest hiding place, but suitable for now. For the first time my hood falls from around my head. Little concern for that as I make the bushes and duck into them crouching down to stay as low as possible. Ears, for the first time today, stand upright and turn in the direction of the approaching beasts. Wafts of my rose colored mane fall around my face as my pink eyes narrow whilst I grit my teeth. A look of determination on my face as my right hand finds Elder Edge's handle just above the hilt. Gripping it firmly makes me wince with anticipation. I fear drawing it. Doing so means no turning back from what will happen.

"Perrine...." As if uttering her name would suddenly cause her to appear.

Wondering what she would do. First off she wouldn't be alone out here. She had insisted I go with no less than 10 of her men in tow. My father had denied that request even against my mother's added insistence. Heart pounds as the sounds of pounding feet draws nearer and nearer. They will be on us any moment now. What is going to happen? Will the see the human? Maybe they have seen me already? Or have they somehow been aware of me......or him? Where did he get too?!? A thousand curses ringing in my head for taking my eyes off him! No time to find him nor worry......here they come.

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis:  I saw her dart to the side, taking enough time to note where she seemed to be heading and wait until her eyes were off of me.  Taking a deep breath, I stepped backwards, allowing myself to 'fall' into my own shadow, Nyxis already waiting for me.
"How far are they now?"
"Just over a kilometer away," She told me, sensing what I was going to request.  "Be careful..."  I nodded and felt myself rising slowly, one hand reaching out to lightly touch her shoulder in thanks and understanding before emerging in the shadows of the shrub silently.  The female was already hunkered down, and as much as this shrub provided some cover, I wasn't about to trust it completely.  Calling on my companions aid once more, I wove a faint enchantment that would blurr our forms even more and 'encourage' any looking in our direction that there was nothing of interest to be seen in the shrub.  The air wavered slightly, but noting more was apparent and I moved up slowly beside the female, wanting to get a glimpse of the Slaug and their riders. 

Holding up a finger to my lips for silence, I didn't bother looking at the female, my concentration on the fields ahead.  Five minutes passed without the slightest movement, which meant nothing in the long run.  Then...There...I could hear the sound of something running, faintly, and not with the solid impact of hoofs on the earth, but something none the less.  A ragged group crested a distant hill, then vanished as they road down the side of it, only to reappear closer a few moments later.  Twice more they vanished and appeared, slowing as they approached the road we had recently occupied.

The slaug hissed  and screeched at each other as their riders brought them to a rough stop, their mounts tossing their heads angrily, forked tongues flicking in and out even as they sniffed the air, milling about.  Most of the group were orcs, their armor rusted and dented, bones and skins both from humanoids and ferals adorning their forms, crimson paint marking tribal runes and accomplished feats on their faces and arms.  A minotaur, couple lizard folk, some members of the wolf tribes from the north..

I scowled, a cold chill running up my spine as I spotted the leader, its slaug slightly larger than the others, the saddle more ornate and decorated with sigils of power.  As the figure sat, I guessed that it would have been roughly just over seven feet tall, build somewhat slender and athletic for the most part.  The side that it had toward us was almost elf like, darkly tanned almost to the point of being black, the head held arrogantly high and in disgust, but whether from his companions or the surrounding countryside, I couldn't tell.

There was a loud smack, as its mount turned to bash its head against another slaug and both turned to face each other, revealing the true nature of the leader.  The left arm and part of the face and chest were swollen, as if some kind of tumorous growths had taken hold, the swelling varying shades of red and purple.  The arm was massive, muscled and twisted to nearly grotesque proportions, and on the shoulder was the most telling feature of all.  At the top of the shoulder a crimson eye rolled back and forth, the pupil wide and staring above a fanged maw that seemed to open and close constantly, faint tendrils of smoke issuing from it.

A Grelisalfar.  Legend had that they were once a beautiful people, one of the first of the Elven races, and beloved by the night itself.  Then the first wars with mortals had happened, a seemingly endless plague of humans had come from across the seas and despite all their efforts, in diplomacy and combat, more and more fell to the invaders.
Desperate to try and preserve at least some of their race and sacred sites, they turned to other sources of magick, eventually forging a pact with a powerful and ancient demon.  For the power to drive the humans from their lands, each member of their race would serve as a vessel in thrall to a demonic spirit.  At first the tide seemed to have turned, but later on it became apparent that the demons had little concern for the mortal race of man.  The demonic spirits twisted their hosts, manifesting in terrible ways, and began to corrupt the minds.  Betrayals follow, the demons basking in the slaughter of their enslaved comrades as much as the mortals, soon leading to a fractious war amongst their own kind.

After the Purge, and a few hundred years, the Grelisalfar had been reduced to a couple hundred, living in remote areas of the world, sometimes enslaving bands of raiders.   Much like the one before us.  Vicious, cruel and cunning, there were a multitude of legends to warn against trusting one of their ilk, even for offered power.

[Cynergi]

I can hear father. In my head I hear him as plain as if he were right there with me. Crouched and ready. In a very real sense he was. Elder's Edge, his sword, now mine was resting in it's sheathe upon my left hip. My right hand drawn tight around it handle. His tone, as always, was soft and yet still held a note of firmness.

Wynstar Thunderhoof: "Remember, my dearest. A blade is only as sharp as that which wields it. Your mind is sharp as is your blade. Only together can they cut down your enemies. Remain calm and keep your mind clear. This is your best weapon. The blade may cut.....but only the mind can kill."

Father was always somewhat cryptic. He was always trying to make me think. Always wanting me to find the meaning in his words on my own. Of my family he was thought of as the wisest even beyond his own father. That was the key. His mind. It made him  who and  what he was and so he endeavored to teach me the same. Make my mind sharper than his. Any hand can wield a sword, but only the mind can chose how to use it and when. I tighten my grip as I see them come. These foul beasts and their foul riders. The first was a Minotaur. He was quickly followed by two lizard men. I couldn't recall what they were called as my eyes caught the site of several wolves. I grit my teeth and narrow my eyes. I know these. Crested Fangs. I could see the markings from here as plain as day on their faces. They were among the foulest of the wolf tribes. This was bad. That tribe was the same one who had attempted to take Penny Falls 200 years ago and met their fate high in the Frozen Mountains. No doubt hired on as trackers and scouts. Still the sheer sight of them was nothing for what came next. A sight I hoped never to live long enough to see.  A Grelisalfar. Horribly twisted both in body and mind. The demon already had his soul so that was all he really had left. I nearly retched upon the foul smell that accompanied him.


"This is real bad................" whisper softly under my breath.

The wind stayed in my favor. There was very little chance they would be able to make my scent where I was in relation to them though the foul stench I was now forced to endure would leave others pondering if the wind really was in my favor. I thought of a few spells, but a light thrum in my hand reminded me that would be futile if I draw this sword. Elder would feed from my own magical energies to charge it's own power. Any spells I cast would be instantly negated as would any magic they threw at me. The sudden screaming from the blade would instantly give me away the very second the blade hit open air. I am stuck fast and with a decision to make. If I am spotted I have only this blade to defend myself, but with no magic and my energies being drained I doubt I could last long enough to beat a few of them let alone all of them. Should I rely on my magic I would also be at a disadvantage. I have no offensive spells at my disposal. Either way I should remain silent and out of site. Remain hidden and draw the sword only as a last resort. For now my magic is to no avail.........

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis: They milled around, the wolf men  slowly ranging their mounts up and down the road a few meters before returning to the main group, the distance too far for me to hear what they were saying.  Their expressions were easy enough to see from how they slouched in their saddles when they approached the Grelisalfar.  Resentful, terrified and starving for blood...like whipped starved dogs.  Before one of them could pull back, the twisted one's arm shot out, stretching  grotesquely to cover the six feet that separated his hand from one of the wolves, taloned fingers gripping the head with unnatural strength.

There were exclamations of surprise and fear, followed by howls of terror from the one the Grelisalfar had caught hold of.  Lifting his arm, the cries redoubled, rising to a high pitched squeal of terror as the wolf fought desperately to try and get free.  A loud crunch sounded, and a strange rippling motion began along the arm, undulating from the hand towards the demon's maw in the twisted one's shoulder, the eye wide and staring fixedly at the prey.

My puzzlement at what was happening lasted only a moment, and even after having witnessed Nyxis's own brutality, I felt my gorge rise as I realized what was happening.  The Grelisalfar was devouring the lycan, from the inside out.  The legs were twisting and jerking in panicked awkward motions, the limbs starting to noticeably wither though the howls hadn't stopped.
"The twisted one is keeping him alive and conscious," Nyxis confirmed, revulsion and hatred tinging her thoughts and energy, her desire to try and kill the Grelisalfar almost overpowering.  I tried to sooth her, but it was hard, part of my own emotions and thoughts mirroring her own.  Such an abomination as this shouldn't be allowed to live, but it was hardly the time or place to deal with it...if we were strong enough.

The wolf was hanging limply now, the eyes bulging as the skin stretched taught over the bones, then they vanished to little more than shriveled slits, lips pulled back in a grisly snarl.  The Grelisalfar turned the body back and form a moment, the demonic eye on his shoulder having a glazed drowsy look to it.  Making a remark, the twisted one tossed the body towards the shrubs the femal and I were hiding in, having scant frightened laughter in response from the rest of its companions before yanking the slaug to one side and driving its heels into the sides.  Giving a loud shriek of protest, the slaug reared and thundered back down the road that the female had been traveling down barely an hour earlier, the rest of the raiders following close behind without further prompting.

I kept still, waiting until Nyxis reassured me that they showed no signs of doubling back, just in case.  Letting go a breath I hadn't realized I was holding, I slowly crawled out of the shrub, carefully avoiding the wolf corpse and taking a few steps before vomiting noisily in the knee high grass...

[Cynergi]

" By Karea's Mercy...."  I wasn't going to watch.

Averting my eyes away from the site I nearly beheld I chose to leave the wolf to his fate unseen. Merely staying quiet and out of the line of sight. Hand still on Elder's handle and still ready to draw it if needed. No. Best to remain silent......both of us. The sword's shriek would definitely cause them to became disoriented. All of them.....except the leader. No. Those possessed or , otherwise, under the control of a demon are not so easily overcome. The sword has the power to kill him. That much was not up for debate. What was, however, is the fact he would still be very much aware and focused. That and the simple fact that I, even with this weapon, would be open to attack. Having the sword was one thing. Knowing exactly what to do with it, in that kind of situation, was something almost entirely different. The muffled cries of pain and the sound of the wolf's struggle lasted for only a short while. All that was heard after was a few murmurs amongst the survivors along with the sounds of shushing. I refused to move. Trying to convince myself that this was best when I was really just frozen with fear and disgust. There was still the matter of that Human to deal with if I managed too.....there was movement. The slaugs! The sound of those foul lizards finally moving off into the distance. I remain hidden refusing to so much and try to peek out from my hiding spot.

[Draven Alcanis]

Sethis:  Using the back of my sleeve to wipe my mouth, I sank to a kneeling position, trying to control my breathing.  Drinking a small amount of water from the water skin at my waist, I gargled it a little before spitting it out in a futile attempt to remove the taste of bile from my mouth.
High overhead, a lone feral hawk gave voice to a hunting cry, and slowly, the other sounds of the plains came back into focus after having fallen silent at the passage of evil.

Taking one last look around, I stood and slowly made my way back to the bushes, leaning carefully as I offered a hand to the female.
"They've gone," I said softly, stating the obvious but also hoping that my voice would help to alleviate any fear she might have felt from the near encounter with the Grelisalfar.  Glancing at the body tossed before the bush, my face darkened a little but I remained quiet, sensing that Nyxis had also calmed down...a little.

"We can't just turn a blind eye to this, Sethis," she told me, her thoughts and mental voice stern and calm, barely hiding the urge to go after them and kill the leader.
"We won't, but we can't just leave her here without knowing what she herself plans to do," I responded, looking back to the female in the shrub.  "It may be a wild guess...but I doubt she's been on the road for longer than a week, or has any idea of what its like to travel for longer than a month on her own..."
"M'Lady?"  I said softly, trying to give a reassuring smile to the female, my hand still extended in offer to help her to her feet...

[Cynergi]

I look first to his hand and then to his face and then to his hand again. Unsure of what to do at this point I merely sit there and watch as he somehow appeared to be distracted again. I simply push that thought way out of my head and attempt to stand up on my own. I don't move. All at once it hits me. I hadn't let go of the sword nor had my heart stopped pounding. The wind. The direction had changed. It now blew back in  the direction of the town that had been my destination. Only now did I notice it. Looking at his hand again it was painfully apparent I was going to need some assistance. Trying to relax as I finally relinquish a firm grip on the sword I wobble to my hooves. Legs felt like jello having sat there squatting on them for so long. My head feels a tad light a blood rushes back down my legs and I get back on my hooves. My hooves......oh dear. I had just realized that my hood was down and my head fully exposed to this stranger. A stranger whose hand I was still holding....

(sorry for the short post. I had no idea where to go from here)

[Draven Alcanis]

(No worries)

Sethis:  Helping her stand, I transferred my hand to her shoulder to help steady the female, my eyes taking in her appearance more completely.  Aside from her horn and hair, there was nothing else unusual about her, except for the fact that her clothing and armor had a marked newness to them.  My own hood being down revealed my own unusual feature, namely the difference between my two eyes.

Something at the back of my mind told me I should know more about what she was, but in truth, it was little more than an irritating murmur.
"Are you feeling ok?" I asked after a few moments, noticing that her muscles still seemed to be shuddering, but whether from tension, fear, or both, I couldn't say.  "We can't stay here for long, just in case they decide to turn around...or have a scout following them..."
I didn't mention that I had a desire to follow after them and find out what was going on.  The Grelisalfar were rare enough as it was, that when one was seen traveling, it was best to take word to surrounding villages or cities.