A Land in Chaos

[Vaalic]

Four months had passed since Vaalic and the others had returned from Terra. Though they were now safe, their lives were far from easy. Freeport was unprepared for the flood of refugees that had come to find aid. The capital was destroyed and most of the survivors moved to Freeport, the largest and closest city. They came with low spirits, few possessions and rarely any silver in their pocket. The population of Freeport in the last few months had grown by several thousand people and there was no housing, and little work for those that came. Loggers worked steadily bring in new timbers as men worked to build crude houses and shacks for their families. Unfortunately the Thieves guild flourished, as many new members joined their ranks despite the efforts of the town guards. Times were hard, but they showed signs of improvement. New shops and inns were being built, and life continued on. Vaalic had been living in a small two-room house with his wife and new son. Lord Petrich, the governor of Freeport had been frequently requesting his council. Despite every attempt the governor made, conditions in the city grew worse. Vaalic had been helping him find ways to employee the new refugees as well as keeping the peace.

Lately Vaalic was spending more and more time in the governor's mansion discussing matters with Lord Petrich, and less time with his family. Dravven was often in the meetings with them along with several other advisors the governor had. They all tried to find solutions to the numerous problems Freeport now faced. Vaalic had only spoken to Trailock a few times since their return, as they were both busy, and Trailock started to spend a large amount of his time with Vindao and Nuanni. Irish had been recovering with several healers tending to him since their return and they had said he was almost back to normal. Vaalic had been in a meeting with Lord Petrich and Dravven when a messenger burst through the door.
"M'lord! Dragons! They're attacking!"
Every man in the room got to their feet; Dravven and Vaalic exchanged worried glances before the messenger continued.
"Dozens of them, M'Lord. They're on the horizon and coming this way fast!"
"Where do they come from?"
"The North... I'm not sure where."
"Leave us." Lord Petrich's voice sounded just above a whisper as he sat back down in his chair. The messenger heard him and silently left the room.
"Dragons? We cannot defend against them. We need to get everyone together. Vindao and Nuanni may know something of this."
Dravven had been thinking the same thing and together they left Lord Petrich behind as they entered the street.
"We need to get everyone together. I'll find Vindao and Nuanni. Get everyone else together and have them meet at my home."
Dravven and Vaalic split up. He knew that Vindao and Nuanni weren't staying in town. Nuanni had created a cave deep in the forest. It was a secret that none of the townspeople knew and it was best for everyone that way. If they had known a dragon was living in the area, adventurers would soon be there to try and make a name for themselves. Vaalic began his long hike in a hurry, but it was a long distance to travel and time was short, so he soon began to pace himself. Though Nuanni could change her form to that of a human she preferred her natural state. Their remote location suited her and Vindao perfectly. Trailock was their only regular visitor, and occasionally the two would come to town if Vindao needed supplies. Nuanni had created her lair on the bank of a small lake and the two didn't disturb anyone. It took Vaalic the better part of an hour to reach them.
"Vindao! Nuanni! Are you here?"
Nuanni came out of the cave's entrance. She was a beautiful blue dragon, though several scars ran along her body, evidence of the vicious battles she had been a part of. She was small for a dragon, though she was still an impressive sight. Vaalic couldn't deny that she was swift in flight, and as deadly as any dragon he had ever known.
"I am here. You have come a long way."
"Tell me, what do you know of the approaching dragons?"
"Dragons?"
"They are coming from the North and heading this way fast, they may already be upon the city!"
Vindao came was walking up from the lake, a deer carcass carried over his bare shoulders. When he saw Vaalic he put the animal down.
"How many are there?"
"Dozens of them... or so I was told."
Vindao and Nuanni exchanged uneasy glances.
"Then they're not here for us. The Flurin must be expanding their territory once again. They will negotiate the surrender of your cities and add this land to the empire. If you will not surrender they will take it by force. There is nothing you can do to stop them. With this land under their control it is only a matter of time before they find us and put an end to our lives. For now we are safe. At least safer than those in your city."
"The Flurin rule with an iron fist. To defy them is to invite death. To submit to them is to accept slavery."
Silence followed for several minutes afterwards. The reality of what was said was sinking in and Vaalic thought long and hard before he spoke. His life, and the life of his family would be forever changed. Should he stand and fight, and possibly bring harm to himself and his family, or should he sit back as his country becomes slaves to an Empire.
"You know more about the Flurin than we could ever learn. If we stand and fight... will you support us?"
Vindao and Nuanni looked at each other. No words were spoken, but both understood what was being said. Finally, Vindao looked back to Vaalic and paused a moment before he gave their answer.
"The Flurin are our family... or were our family. We have chosen our path, and we cannot turn back. The Flurin have deemed us traitors, and so they are our enemy. If you wish to fight them so be it. Come back here with any that support you."

[DemaM]

Suthron was several hundred leagues northeast of Freeport. Once a peaceful Avian Empire, now merely a remnant of what was. The Flurin Empire over the years has slowly carved slices out of its western border. All that was left of this once prosperous empire was a large crater keep, an Avani Eerie. During happier times it was called the Flerandi Eerie, (Flerand is the Avian word for Steel) but with the grim times it has been renamed to Hopelast.
The crater was so far north that the temperature is always barely above freezing during much of the year. The ridges that form the crater look like a crescent moon facing the ocean, spanning 30 leagues. In the center of the crater there is an island. A volcanic island, which rose four thousand years ago, raises a gigantic meteor. The Avian Thilar (kings) saw the strategic possibilities for a steel fortress nearly thousand years ago. In it, they burrowed and dug a huge fortress of steel, unbreakable, but because of its remoteness, unpractical until now.
Being forced abdicate from the city of Suthron, the Thilar has set up his residence there at Hopelast Eerie. The steel complex was cold compared to the warm wooden fortress of Suthron. The trays with coal burned through out the Throne room. Rugs of the purest white were hung on the walls, but the cool could not be defeated. The king wore a robe of the purest white silk, with feathers on the edges. All his advisors wore a deep red.
In front of the Thilar knelt seven avian, dressed in black silk. Each had their house seal embroidered on the right collar and a dragon on the left, in white. They all wore a cape with black feathers lining the inside. Their boots were black leather with the inner side of the shoe made of felt. The Feather Rapiers on their felt sides were all black except for the silver ring each had forged into their hilts. Even their headfeathers were black. (This is accomplished by eating of corbseed)
“Raven I see before me,” said the Thilar “prepared for a quest. Where are you to fly, my raven?”
The central avian stood, drew his sword, tapped his heart with the hilt, and placed the tip on the floor. “We come to seek our lord blessing for this quest.”
“A quest, my son, my raven? It appears to me you court death, Featheren. What sort of quest is this?”
“Everything living courts death, father, but now death dances with the lives of people. I will seek to rid this land, all lands, of the Flurin Empire.” Featheren said with a strong voice.
“Do you now? Do you not know I have sought this all my reign? How will you bring about that which your father has tried doing before you very birth? Have you an army of Raven waiting at your heel to fight the Dragon Knights? Stay here; defend your people, with perseverance we will overcome. Just as we forged this eerie out of steel, we will forge an empire out of Flurin, if we press on.”
“Father, you do not bore through steel with a ram, but you must drill through it with drills. We will drill through this empire. To the heart, and try to pierce it with a tip of steal? Of late we have done no drilling, but are being drilled. Our Falcons fall from the skies scorched, trying to preserve. I cannot stand it any longer. Allow me to fight, allow my brothers.” Featheren gesturing to the others, who all rose, tapped their rapiers to their hearts and placed the tips on the steel floor. “Seven, complete, seven whole. Yet Raven without your blessing. Father, we are married with death. Please bless us, so we may go peacefully to the unknown.”
“Son, you my only heir,” placing his hand on his heart, “and very dear to me, and the people. If I give my blessing, you cannot return to claim the throne until the task is complete. My people will be left leaderless if I die. Please, do not do this.” Featheren’s grim stair did not change. “So be it.” Raising his hands he blessed them.
With the blessings, every mage left in Hopelast warded them against fire. They oiled their falcon and clothing with luad, eternal ice. Their featherlance and boots were enchanted so that they could not be removed where placed, except by their wish. They carried little: a bow and quiver, a featherlance, rapiers, a water skin, a purse with some gold, a flint and two daggers, and tilad feathers.
Early the next morning, they all set out into the world. Each would go his separate way, each would make his own plans, never to return to their Suthron until Flurin ended.

[DemaM]

Off in the distance, Featheren saw what appeared to be a red shape moving towards him. It moved up in down in a steady rhythm, like a worm moving through the air. Ko’pan turned her head and screeched a warning Featheren had learned to understand dread.
Featheren taped the hilt of his featherlance on Ko’pan back, “higher” he whispers more to himself than to Ko’pan, but he knew she would understand. The ground beneath him shrunk as time past, but the red dot on the horizon grew. It was a medium sized red dragon, with an armed knight. “Dragon Knights do not often stop to chitchat with Raven.”
Featheren leveled off his ascension. Dragons have a hard time keeping afloat in the thin air. Featheren flew Ko’pan directly towards the dragon. Its bronze eyes lit up with fire. Behind its head rode a Dragon Knight almost as black as Featheren. They flew directly at each other. But just as Featheren was about hit to the dragon, Ko’pan flew straight up, with out any prodding. The dragon blew fire. Featheren did a flip off of Ko’pan, landing on the dragon’s back. The featherlance, cutting through the scales, was deeply embedded in the dragons back. Featheren hung to the lance, and drew his sword.
The Dragon Knight with sword in hand lunged at Featheren. Featheren holding to his lance parried the attacks. He was no match the tall Dragon Knight. Twirling around the lance, he danced on the back of the dragon barely out of the way of the Knight’s sword. Often times Ko’pan would strike at the Knight with its talons saving Featheren from almost certain death.
He heard Ko’pan screech behind him. He held the lance at its end, and ducked as the she flew over him talons first at the knight. The knight, too, ducked out of the way of the talons. When the falcon was past, he lunged closer towards Featheren. Featheren was now standing where the dragon tail began. As the knight came closer, he released his lance and plunged it into the Knights chest. Pulling it out, he jumped off the dragon. Ko’pan flew around and caught Featheren on her back.
He turned around to see the Knight falling off of the dragon. Swiftly the dragon turned towards them and began a chase. This dragon was swift; Ko’pan could not out fly it. It screamed with rage, as it closed in on them.
Featheren did another back flip of the Ko’pan, holding the lance with both hands and feet spiraling towards the dragon. The dragon threw flames at him. But it could not turn fast enough to avoid the living spear fling towards it. The lance went right into the dragon’s mouth. The impact lurched Featheren off of the lance. He hit the dragons head with his own, as he flew by it, knocking him unconscious.

[Jasmine_Eclipse]

Jasmine was walking north, trying to find a town nearby to get some more supplies since she was running low, and had enough for a couple more days. The route that she took was rough and rocky; she wiped her forehead with one of her sleeves, and looked forward, only staring into a dense forest ahead. Jasmine frowned and kept on walking towards the forest, looking around her occasionally and keeping an eye out for any animals that might be around this area. She looked behind her, and she realized that she had no idea where she was going since this area was completely new to her. Jasmine kept on walking, hoping to catch a glimpse of civilization soon. Behind her, Jasmine heard a branch snap and muffled movement. She turned around quickly, and there was only a squirrel sitting on a log, staring at Jasmine with curious eyes. Jasmine softly laughed, “I can’t be letting myself getting spooked by something as silly as that” she thought to herself. So Jasmine headed in the same direction as previously, with high hopes with reaching something soon. Jasmine rounded a corner in the forest, and came across three scruffy looking males, enclosed in a circle engaging in a serious conversation. Jasmine cautiously kept on walking, trying not to draw attention to herself. Suddenly, one of the males looked up with a surprised look on his face.
“Hey guys, look at this”
The other two guys turned around and all eyes were on Jasmine.
“Why is a pretty lady like you wondering around a spooky forest like this all by yourself?”
Jasmine scowled, she hates being talked down by people who think that she is weak and pitiful just because she’s a woman.
“I’m just on my way heading to town to get some more supplies. Going through the “spooky forest” is just a shortcut for me” she said with a hint of sarcasm in her voice.
The tall bearded fellow stepped toward with a jug of ale in his hand.
“That’s not a way you talk to your elders young lady, now show us some respect” he slurred his words.
Jasmine just stared at the men and said nothing.
“Hey, if she’s going into town, that must means she has lots of gold on her”
“You’re right! Common lady, fork your gold over”

The three men advanced on Jasmine, encircling her and trapping her in the middle of all of them. None of the guys were armed with any weapons, yet they were much bigger and stronger than Jasmine. Jasmine put her hand on her dagger just in case if she needed it.
“Wait guys, I have no gold on me. If I did, why would I have such torn up boots and no supplies?” as she tried to reason with the scruffy men.
“That doesn’t mean anything, you could have some hidden on you somewhere that you are unwilling to give to us. Now you can either do this the hard way, or the easy way.”
Jasmine looked at all the men and said nothing.
“Grab her wrists and make sure you have a good grip on her. We’ll teach her a lesson”
Jasmine had a look of terror in her eyes but she drew her dagger out of her belt and held it up, pointing in the man’s direction.
“Oooh, look guys, the lady has a dagger. I’m shaking in my boots” the third man said with a mocking tone.
Then promptly, the first thief grabbed Jasmine’s wrists roughly, making her drop her dagger and then got her hands behind her back in a tight hold. Jasmine struggled and tried to release herself from the man’s grip, but it was too strong.
“We got her now; search her for gold or anything else valuable.”
Jasmine continued to struggle and she kicked backwards with her right leg and hit the thief in the inside of his thigh, making him stagger back briefly for a second.
“Why you little..” His face was filled with anger. “Now I’m not going to be not so nice anymore.”
Jasmine was feeling helpless, and she looked around and all she saw were the thieves. All of a sudden, a shadow emerged from the trees. A rather tall figure stood within walking distance of the fight that was going on with Jasmine and the thieves. Jasmine saw a person there; he was elf-like with a medium build and dark brown hair and pointy ears. Jasmine held her breath and stared at the elf, who was watching what was going on. She didn’t know if he was an enemy, or if he would be able to help her out.
“Help!” Jasmine shouted.
The elf didn’t say a word, but he drew out an arrow and took out his bow and aimed it at the drunken thief. He released the bow and hit the man in the back, who was just about to attempt to steal Jasmine’s gold. The thief fell face forward immediately down into the dirt, just grazing Jasmine’s leg. The 2 remaining thieves looked up with a startled look on their face.
“Where did he come from? Who is that?”
“I don’t know.. But he just shot our buddy. Get him!”
The third thief turned around and picked up a large stick and dashed at the elf’s torso, missing him. He stumbled past the elf, trying to regain his balance. The elf took out his short sword and turned around and slashed the thief’s right shoulder, causing him to cry out in pain. He held his shoulder tightly with his left hand, which was getting covered in blood. Then the elf took another stab at the thief, stabbing him in his torso. The thief had a look of fear in his eyes as he looked at the elf, looked at Jasmine and the other thief fighting, and back to the elf, then he limped in pain the opposite way, cowardly.
“Hey! Get back here you coward! Don’t make me do this by myself!”
The thief disappeared from view, into the dark dense forest.
“Fine, more for me then”
The thief released his grip from Jasmine’s wrists as he pushed her on the ground. Jasmine fell roughly onto the rocky ground, cutting up her elbows and arms. Jasmine laid there for a second, trying to regain her strength. The thief advanced on Jasmine, attempting to pin her down and take her gold. Jasmine attempted to reach for her knife in her boot, but she was unsuccessful. The elf jogged over to where Jasmine laid and he moved his sword right on the thief’s throat. The thief felt the coldness of the metal against his throat and he froze.
"Leave the girl alone” the elf’s deep voice demanded.
The thief got up and faced the elf. The elf continued to hold his sword to his throat, staring coldly into his eyes.
“Get out of here now before I kill you”
Jasmine got up and picked up her dagger from off the ground, pointing it to the thief’s torso. The thief looked at the both of them and took a step back. Without a word, he turned around and sprinted away, leaving no trace behind. Jasmine looked at the elf, and gave a sigh of relief.
“Thank you so much for helping me back out there. I really appreciate it. Who are you, if you don’t mind me asking?”
The elf looked at Jasmine suspiciously.
“I’m Khellandros Amakiir.. Who are you?”
“I’m Jasmine Eclipse.. I was just on my way to find a town to pick up some supplies around here when those guys tried to rob me. Do you know of any places around here?”
“Yes, there is a town just up ahead, several miles from here called Freeport.”
“Do you think you would be able to accompany me there? I don’t know this area at all, and I just need a place to rest.”
Khellandros looked at Jasmine with disbelief.
“Okay then, I will escort you to Freeport. It might take about half a day to reach there.”
“That sounds great, thanks a lot again Khellandros.”
Jasmine quickly brushed the dirt off her arms and made sure she had everything still with her. Then she took Khellandro’s side as they started to walk through the forest.

[Khellandros]

Khell looked over at the woman walking beside him...something about her was familiar...but he couldnt put his finger on it. Somehow he had seen her before, he just didnt know when or where. She had said her name was Jasmine Eclipse, which didnt ring a bell at all. As they walked further on away from the scene of the little skirmish where they had met, Khell really began to get frusterated at how he could not remember her. He looked at her again and she turned and caught him with a stare.

What!? Why do you keep looking at me like that?

Khell looked away for a second and then turned back to her

You look familiar...somehow. I dont know why you do, or where we have met , but i am positive i have seen you before.

Jasmine looked back at Khell, starring deeply at him, as if examining him. After a few moments her eyes lit up and she smiled.

YEA! You do look familiar...I think i have seen you at...

Right then a huge axe smashed into a tree inches from Khell's face. In a split second Khell dove to one side and Jasmine dove to the other. Khell stood up behind a large tree and took his bow off his back, and nocked an arrow. Across the path Jasmine was crouched behind a large boulder with her dagger drawn and a angry look on her face. Khell smiled as he looked away...from the look her had seen on her face, he wondered who he should be more afraid of...the person out there who threw the axe or her.

Khell took the chance and made a quick glance around the tree. He couldnt see anything visible on the path, so they must be hiding in the bushes and rocks on either side of the road. Khell glanced at Jasmine once again who sat there with a strange look on her face, as if she was comtemplating somthing. He waited a moment and then disapeared into the trees and started to quietly and slowly make his way up towards where the attacker, or attackers, would be hiding, and hopefully he could get around them and catch them by surprise from behind them. Jasmine looked over just in time to see him disapear into the trees, and she decided to try to move quietly up the path and see if she could get close enough to find out where the attack had come from. Once she neared the place where the attack had come from five guys stepped outta the bushes. All the men carried swords, except for one who had an axe in each hand, and soon formed a ring around Jasmine.
What appeared to be the leader of the theives called out to her,

Give us yer bag n'gold and we might think ta let ye live...for a while anyways...HAHAHA

One of the other men, a short bald fellow, snickered,

After we have a had a little fun with you of course


Jasmine looked around and sighed. 'Not again' she thought...'what was with all these theives?' Jasmine realized there would be no running, because she reached into her boot and with a flick of her wrist she sent a knife into the bald theives throat. As she came up she had a dagger in her and and rushed at the leader. This caught the bandits off guard and it took them a second to realize what was going on. But by then it was too late, Jasmine already had one of the bandits on the groud choking in a pool of blood, and with a quick slash she had another one falling to the ground holding a large gash in his belly. As the three remaining bandits attacked Khell stepped out of the trees and let loose his arrow and hit one of the bandits in the face. The remaining two simutaniously swung at Jasmine, who managed to parry one of the swings and flip the other guy over her shoulder. The thief still standing swung again, only to be knocked to the ground by a sweeping kick from Jasmine. Jasmine plunged her dagger deep into his torso and gave it a sharp twist. She heard a sound behind her and remebered about the guy she had flip behind her. Jasmine turned around just in time to see the thief with his sword aimed at her chest, and ready to plunge in. Just as he started to bring the blade in an arrow whizzed out from behind him and caught him in the back of the head. The thief stumbled for a second and then collapsed to the ground. Jasmine had held her breath, and as the body hit the ground she let out her breath in a sigh of relief.

Jasmine stood up and thanked Khell for him help, and Khell just laughed

The way you handled your last fight made me think you didnt know how to fight...you sure did surprise me this time tho.

Jasmine smiled and winked at Khell.

I dont know why there are so many theives around here...

She just shrugged and retreived her knife and proceeded to clean them both off. Khell drug the bodies to the side of the road and tossed them into the bushes. He turned to Jasmine who was standing there straightening herself out.

The sun is beginning to go down. I dont think it would be wise to chance travelling on this path at night. I said it would only take a half a day to reach the town but i suggest we find a place to camp for the night. I saw a place that would do nice...it is about 10 min back the way we came.

Jasmine nodded is agreement and the two walked back down the path to the spot which was a little clearing a few yards off the side of the road.

[Jasmine_Eclipse]

The sun was slowly going down as Jasmine and Khell were walking down the path in the forest to a clearing just a few yards down to set up camp for the night. The whole time while they were walking, Jasmine had a lot of questions running through her head. Like “Why are there so many thieves around this area?” “Who is this Khellandros man, and why does he seem familiar?” She just frowned and looked over at Khell, who kept on looking around with his hand near his sword, ready for attacking anyone. Shortly, they reached the clearing in the forest and Khell took a quick look around the area, making sure that nobody was hiding in the bushes around them. Khell came back to the clearing where Jasmine was starting to setup camp.
“Its clear, nobody is around here, we should be safe until sunrise”
Jasmine looked up and smiled at Khell.
“Thanks a lot, do you have any flint that we would use to start a fire? It’s getting a bit cold out and I would like to cook some food.”
Khell looked through his pouch, and found a small piece that he had left over. He gathered up some twigs from around the area and piled them in a neat tepee shape. He took his flint and stuck it against a rock and sparks flew, catching on the twigs. The fire immediately started and the flames grew tall. Jasmine looked through her bag and found some dried out meat, trail mix, and bread. Jasmine picked up a small stick and stuck a piece of meat on the end of it, and placed it over the fire. After a few minutes, the meat was cooked and she took the meat off the stick and gave it to Khell. He looked surprised and accepted the food. Jasmine smiled.
“Take whatever food that you would like, it’s the least you can do after saving me two times in one day”
Khell laughed and took a bite of the meat.
“I don’t mind at all, you surprised me the last fight. I didn’t know you could fight like that.”
“If I wasn’t trapped by the thief the first time, I would have done fine. But he was just stronger than me and I couldn’t get loose. But I know how to take care of myself in the woods.”
Khell was staring at Jasmine again.
“So why do you seem so familiar to me?”
Jasmine looked at Khell over again.
“Tell me, what brings you to these woods?”
“I am a wood-elf, and my village was a few miles away from here. I lived there my whole life, and one day I went out hunting and I came back and my village was destroyed. A clan of Lizardmen destroyed it, leaving nothing or no one behind. I went out searching for my brothers or sisters, but I could not find anyone. So I travel in these woods in search of the Lizardmen, and get my vengeance.”
Jasmine looked surprised.
“I’m so sorry to hear that.. I am on my own too. Me and my family was always traveling around these areas, stopping at some occasional villages but never staying in one spot. One night when me and my family set up camp, my brother and father took off hunting, but they never returned. I was left taking care of my mother, but she died shortly after. I took off on my own, searching for a town near by to get some more supplies and I ran into you and the thieves.”
Khell had a sudden look of astonishment on his face.
“That’s why I recognized you! You came into my village one day with your family to pick up some supplies. I think we may have briefly talked, but then you guys took off quickly again. For some reason I always have remembered your face, thinking we might meet again sometime in the future.”
Jasmine looked amazed and shook her head.
“You’re right, I remember now. I never thought we would meet like this again, especially with you saving my life.”
Khell got up and started pacing around the fire, with a serious look on his face.
“You said that your father and brother went hunting and never returned right? I have this feeling that the same Lizardmen that destroyed my village may have attacked your father and brother..” His voice went faint.
Jasmine stared at the fire and was in deep thoughts.
“I think you might be right, that attack didn’t happen much longer after we left your village..”
Jasmine had an angry look on her face and she clenched her fists. Khell came next to Jasmine and put his hand on her shoulder.
“Don’t worry, we’ll find the Lizardmen and get our revenge. In the mean time, we need to rest up and find Freeport and get more supplies.”
Jasmine nodded and went through her bag and got out some water and cocoa and poured 2 cups for her and Khell to drink, after heating it over the fire. Jasmine and Khell sat and drank their cocoa, both staring in the fire, and contemplating what they both learned that night. Jasmine took out a blanket and held it up to Khell. Khell shook his head.
“No, you need it. Rest up now and we’ll be ready for traveling tomorrow.”
Jasmine curled up in a ball near the fire and fell asleep. Khell stared at Jasmine for a while, and then glanced around the camp again, and he fell asleep.

[DemaM]

Twilight game and went. It was minutes before dawn. The campfire had nearly gone out during the night. The morning star was over head. One would imagine the air to be crisp and clean at this time, but there was a strange hell-like smell to it. Sulfur gave it’s stench. Khell didn’t notice it at first, but it made its way into his dreams. He dreamed of a battle between a Raven and Dragon Knight. The he awoke when the Raven was knocked unconscious. It was still dark. He meant to have wakened up every few hours, but now noticed he slept longer than he intended. He quickly got up, and saw Jasmine. She was still asleep.
He decided to scout ahead a bit and then to return, remembering that Jasmine could take care of herself. He would return, because he had promised her that he would escort her to Freeport. He put some wood on the fire, to keep her warm, left a quick not on a piece of paper, and then set off to scout. It was then he noticed the sulfuric smell. He held his bow knocked in his hand and walked towards it.
After a few hundred yards he came upon a dragon. A lance thrust through its head. He looked at the lance. It was a featherlance of course, but he didn’t know it. He had never seen a dragon so killed, and though it curious. Walking closer to it, he was sure that it was a dragon mount. Someone had killed a Dragon Knight. He tried to pull the lance out, but it wouldn’t budge. He looked around, not many could kill a Dragon Knight. To the north, he heard a screech; eagles do not hunt this early. Not knowing why, he walked towards it… After walking a hundred yards, he saw a giant bird. It looked towards him with its furious yellow eyes and it flew away.
He walked over towards where the eagle had been and found what appeared to be a child. As he approached it, the child moaned, the voice deeper than he expected. “Ko’pan, where did you go, amooaa..” Despite the apparent injury of the small man, Khell drew his sword quietly, and approached him cautiously. The injured man seemed not to notice Khell. Khell placed the sword on his neck, then asked. “Who are you?”
The small man, moaning, looked up at Khelldros and said, “ I am Featheren. A little birdie that has lost his wings, please help me.”
“A birdie you say? Where are you from Featheren? What are you doing here, and how did you lose your wings?”
“I am an Avani, from Suthron. I don’t exactly remember how I lost my wings, but it seems to have something to do with a dragon. My face is burned. I must have been defeated by a Dragon Knight, because not much else is hot enough to burn me.
Knocked from my falcon, I seem to have disjointed my back. It doesn’t seem broken, for I can still move my toes, just dislocated. Perhaps you can help me place it.”
Khell looked at Featheren intently. He appeared to be an elf, only smaller. He wore rich cloths, and had a rapier at his belt. His face was burned, and headfeathers singed. With a grunt, Khell turned Featheren onto his stomach and ran his fingers down his back. Sure enough, there was a misplaced disk. But it seemed tight. He lifted him by putting his arms around Featheren chest. He lifting him high he let him drop, then lifted him again quickly. There was a large pop from Featheren’s back. Featheren bit his tongue trying not to scream, and made something like a moan.


Khell did that a few more time, each time Featheren back popped. Slowly he set Featheren on his feet. Featheren bowed, and stretched. He still seemed sore. He took a step slowly, then another. At first they were filled with pain. Slowly it seemed to Featheren that is pain was going. Featheren looked around for his lance. Looking at Khell, he said,” Thank you. I not sure how long I would have laid there. I tried to get my bird to carry me to a city, but it refused.” Looking up, he gave a long high whistle. Then a little song, then another high whistle; within a few moments Ko’pan landed a few feet away from Featheren.
Ko’pan stood there with its back at five feet tall. The wings must have spanned at least fifteen feet. Its long tail enabled quick maneuvering. Featheren checked the birds back, and saw that it was not there. Khell stood in quiet awe of the bird, the asked Featheren what he was searching for. “A featherlance, I need to find my featherlance.”
Khell stood there in almost disbelief. “That must have been your lance. Hmm, This way Featheren.” He led him toward the dragon. When he reached the dragon, Featheren drew his sword and crouched as if ready for an attack. Khell chuckled, “Its dead, You must have killed it.” Featheren replaced his sword and walked towards it, a bit embarrassed.
Featheren pulled out the lance and wiped it on the dragon’s gray saddle. Khell said “How did you pull it out so easily? It seemed pretty stiff when I last saw it.”
Featheren took the lance and jabbed it into the tree right next to him. Then looking at Khell said, “Pull it out, or at least try.” Khell walked up to the tree and grabbed the lance. He pulled, but it wouldn’t move. Featheren smiled and said “Only I can remove it when I place it somewhere.” He walked over and easily removed it.
Khell remembered Jasmine and said, “I have a camp somewhere that way, come with me, I have someone waiting for me.”
Featheren whistled a different song. There was a screech where they left Ko’pan. He soldiered the lance, and followed Khell. He told him of his history, and mission, and Khell told him his. When he reached the camp, it was early dawn. Jasmine was not yet awake. Featheren whistled another song, and within a few minutes Ko’pan flew down with a young deer for breakfast.

[Jasmine_Eclipse]

The night came and went, as the sun started to rise early in the morning. The sun started to peak through the trees as Jasmine got hit with a ray of sunshine. She groaned and turned around and tried to go back to sleep, but she knew that they had to go to Freeport today. She woke up, stretched and got up. Jasmine looked around the camp and saw Khell awake, along with a giant bird with yellow eyes, and a little elf with a burnt face beside him, all looking at her. At her side, she saw a dead young deer beside the fire, and the fire was still burning. Jasmine rubbed her eyes and looked again. “Who are these people?” Jasmine thought. Khell stepped forward to Jasmine.
“Morning, had a good nights sleep I hope?”
Jasmine nodded and looked at everyone again with a confused look on her face.
“Oh, this, I will explain. I usually wake up several times during the night, but last night I smelt a strange sulfur smell, so I went to investigate to see what was out there. I walked a bit and came across this huge dragon on the ground, which was killed by something. I heard a screech, and walked towards it and then I found Featheren, the little elf beside you. His bird, Ko’pan, and him were fighting that dragon that I found earlier and they were really injured, so I brought them back to our camp.”
Jasmine looked at Featheren with a look of sympathy and nodded.
“Are you okay? What happened to your face?”
“When me and Ko’pan were fighting before, I went near the dragons mouth and the flame burnt my face. I’ll live.”
Jasmine went through her bag and found some of her mother’s algae lotion which would help stop the pain and make it heal it faster. Jasmine handed him the lotion and Featheren took and smeared it across his face.
“Thank you”
“Let’s cook some breakfast, I’m starving.”
“Good idea, I’ll start cutting up the deer right now”
Jasmine looked over at Ko’pan, which was standing there, preening itself.
“How do we feed your bird?”
“Oh, he eats about his weight in food everyday. About a quarter of the deer should do him fine for now.”
Khell put the pieces of deer over the fire, waiting for it to cook. Jasmine started packing up all her belongings in her bag, and sat down on a log facing the fire. Within several minutes, the meat was done, and he handed a huge piece to Featheren to give to Ko’pan, and a piece for himself. Jasmine and Khell split what was left over. Jasmine looked over at Featheren, who was feeding Ko’pan.
“You said you killed a dragon right? Where is it? I have never seen one before.”
“Yes we did, its just north, a short while from camp. Here, let’s go.”
Featheren climbed on Ko’pan’s back and flew ahead of Jasmine and Khell who were walking behind. Within a few minutes, they came across a red medium sized dragon, which was on the ground, motionless. Jasmine walked up cautiously to the dragon with her sword out, getting closer to his head. Jasmine poked his head slightly, but there was no response.
“Wow, it’s a real dragon knight. How did you kill him?”
“I threw my lance into his mouth, after knocking his rider off his back.”
“That’s impressive; one of those things must be extremely hard to kill.”
Featheren nodded.
Jasmine replaced her sword, and turned to Khell with a smile on her face
“Should we start on our way to Freeport right now?”
“Yes, let’s leave right now. It’s just a little hike north from here.”
Jasmine and Khell took the lead as they walked through the windy paths of the forest. Featheren and Ko’pan were following behind, and seemed to be murmuring words to each other. The dense forest was starting to thin out as they started to approach town. A little while later, they arrived at Freeport. Freeport was a large town with lots of construction going on, with inns and shops being build steadily and shacks were spread throughout town. The townspeople seemed to be really busy, and didn’t pay much attention to Jasmine and the group when they arrived.
“I’ll be back in a few seconds; I just need to buy some food.”
Jasmine took off to the merchant and bought a couple of loaves of bread from him and some more dried meat. Jasmine came back to the group with a satisfied look on her face.
“Let’s explore the town for a little while, and we should check in the inn before night falls to insure a room. How does that sound?”
Everyone nodded as they started walking around the town. Jasmine caught her attention towards this old woman sitting on her stool with a worried look on her face. Jasmine approached the old woman with a smile on her face.
“Hi there, how are you doing?”
The old woman just stared at Jasmine and whispered, “We are all doomed”
Jasmine looked confused, “What do you mean?”
The old woman whispered, “Dragons…. Heading this way..”

[Noble]

The town was nearly exploding with energy. People ran here in there; some in fear looking for a place to hide, others with various items in their hands running errands for the guard.

A proud figure walked with a purpose through all the bustle. Shoulder length dark brown hair framed a noble, though youthful face. A train of guards followed him as he made his way to the north wall.

You! Get my Archers to the North wall, and I want as many men as you can gather, give them pikes and set them up behind the Archers. And get me at least one man with a great shield to cover a pair of an Archer and Pikeman. Said the man in a loud forceful voice. Not harsh, but obviously used to being obeyed.

One of the trailing guards ran to fulfill the order.

Run as if Hell itself is after you, they'll be here in moments.
He turned to another guard.

You! Take a few men and keep an eye out for thieves. The guild will think this an opportune time for picking the city clean. But just because half of the city may be otherwise engaged is no reason that the the other half should lose their possessions.

"Captain!" yelled the distressed voice of a soldier running towards the Commander. "They're almost here. Five beats at the latest!"

All right men, the time for valor is now. Get to your posts, prepare for the worst, and fight like never before! May the Warrior smile on us and strengthen our blades.

Strength and Honor! He shouted.

"Valor and Victory!" They replied, as they saluted with their blades and ran to take their places.

[DemaM]

“The Dragons,” Featheren mused, “might appreciate some feathers.” Featheren retrieved a richly embroidered purse from his coat and threw it to Khell. “Go, find me a home, a little bit away from all the people, somewhere in a better district, maybe a tall building, with trees. Give me something to fight for.” With a wink to Jasmine, he ran off into the crowd. Khell and Jasmine stood watching Featheren go, then turned towards woman and began to talk.

Featheren raced towards a stand where they sold down. The look of the merchant was something like a human duck, with all its feathers torn off. His demeanor would not very have been very much different if that were the case. His long mouth and short wide nose formed the perfect bill for that duck. His cloak was a dull gray, with feathers fringed all along the sided. Featheren was sure that if anyone who was not worried about the dragons would be laughing at that man. The man was busy stuffing the down into large burlap sack, and tying those to his mule.

“Good day sir,” Featheren said trying to suppress a smirk, “can a buy a pouch of down?” The man looked a Featheren with disbelief. Eyeing Featheren’s head, he shook his own.

“Dragons comin, I must pack me stuff up and head out before the whole place go up in ze flames.” The man said finger up towards the north with a look of certainty in his face.

Featheren reached into his coat, and brought out two plain black pouches and two gold coins and placed it on the table. “Black feathers please, and quickly. You don’t want this Raven crowing on your head.”

The featherlance felt light in his hand. Ko’pan took them up into the sky, far above the reach of any arrow that might think him a threat. The city below him looked busy. Guards stationed on the walls, and people feeing out of the southern gates. Brigades of horsemen patrolled the streets. Pikes on the wall readied their spears. Far away, Featheren could barely see some specks. He flew higher. He wanted to reach them by surprise.

Khellandros and Jasmine walked into the crow going the opposite way. Khell lead Jasmine through the press. One could almost smell the fear in the air. Guards stood on platforms watching for thieves and like. Others directing traffic out of the city.

They reached a relatively empty section of the city. The government district. A few hundred meters to the west of the district gates stood a tall, half finished building. Three stories built, and construction already begun on the fourth, but the construction obviously ended some time ago. A tall man sat in a chair by the door. His black and red robes looked like they were once great, but now were worn. On his shoulder lay a long white staff. Over the door of the decrepit building sat stone statue of a raven. “A fitting house for our own raven,” Khell said looking over his shoulder at Jasmine. She only nodded.

As they approached the man, he stood up and gave Jasmine a bow. “Francis Skylar at your service, m’ Lady”
“Good to meet you, Francis, I am Jasmine Eclipse, and this elf is Khellandros Amakiir. And we would like to buy this building.”

Oh, would you now. I’m sorry, this is a guild house, and it’s not for sale.

Guild house? Doesn’t look used, your not even done building it. And its clear building stopped a long time ago. Who is the owner?

I am, I am the keeper. The rest of the mages disappeared mid-construction. I expect them to return. Soon.

Khell looked at the old man, brought out Featheren purse. He jingled it in front of Francis’ and said “You can still keep it; only its new master is called Lord Featheren Eaglethorpe.” With a wink to Jasmine, he continued, “Bring this building into a condition worthy of him.” Jasmine laughed.

[Khellandros]

As Khell and Jasmine walked from the house they had just bought, they stopped as they saw the comotion that was going on. People were running to and fro, some screaming, some crying. Jasmine turned and looked at Khell, who just shrugged. Khell took a few steps and grabbed a man who was running by.

What is going on? What is all the comotion about?

The man looked at Khell with fear in his eyes

Let me go! There are DRAGONS COMING!!! DRAGONS! AHHHHHH!

Khell loosened his grip and the man took off down the street and was soon lost admist the petrified crowd. Jasmine turned to Khell with a worried look.

There are Dragons coming here? What do you think we should do?

Khell stood silent for a moment and then turned to her.

Personally, i do not wish to get in a fight with a dragon. This is not my fight.

But we should do somthing to help these people...what else is there to do?

Khell looked at Jasmine and shook his head.

There is nothing we can do against Dragons. You daggers are useless and it would take a many a well placed arrows to bring a dragon down. The best thing that we can do is to either find a place to wait it out, or get out ourselves. What do you think?

Khell stood there straing at Jasmine as he awaited her decision.

[Jasmine_Eclipse]

Jasmine looked at Khell, who was waiting for her response. She bit her lip and stared into the crowd. There was lots of commotion and confusion around the whole town, with people frantically running around. She looked at the town guards who were assembling their troops, ready for battle. Jasmine was deep in thought. She really wanted to help the townspeople, yet she couldn’t. She knew that she just had a dagger and a small knife on her, and it would do nothing to a huge beast. Jasmine looked back at Khell with a disappointed look on her face and sighed.
“I suppose your right. I really do want to help these people out but we are both unable to. Unless if we have access to more weapons or to someone that knows what is going on, we can’t do anything.”
Khell looked at Jasmine and nodded his head in agreement.
“Good decision, we don’t know anything about dragons or the whole battle scene with them. Only Featheren does, but he’s battling some of his own up there.”
“True, I guess the only thing we should do is leave.. How about we go towards the forest opposite to where we came in so we don’t backtrack?”
“Yeah, before when I was wondering around that area, there was a lake a fair distance from here. It’s quite a hike, but we can start in that direction and see where that leads us. Maybe we can find out some information about the Lizardmen and we can get our revenge.”
“That’s a good idea. We should sleep first in the guild house that we just bought for Featheren and head out the next morning so we don’t travel in the dark again.”

Khell and Jasmine turned around and headed back to the house, and they went inside and looked around. The first floor was just a meeting area so they traveled up another flight of stairs. There, they found several guest rooms which have been completed. Jasmine looked at Khell.
“Good, now we have a place to stay. I’ll be looking forward to sleeping on a bed for once instead of the hard ground. I’ll take this room right here, you can decide what you want to do.”
Jasmine started walking towards the room and Khell was following behind her. Jasmine turned around and looked at Khell with a curious face.
“Is there anything else you need to ask?”
Khell turned away and blushed.
“No, I was just going to ask you, what time do you want to leave?”
“Just a little bit after sunrise is fine with me. Just get me when you’re ready to leave.”
Jasmine turned around and went into her room and shut the door. Khell stared at the door and went to the room next to hers and crawled into bed and went to sleep. The next morning, the sun peeked through Khell’s window. Khell woke up and went out of his room and looked at Jasmine’s door. It was still shut, so he assumed she was still asleep. Khell quietly went down the stairs and outside to the town. It was quiet out, except for a few merchants who set up their shops early. Khell went and bought a loaf of bread for them to share and headed back to the house. He went upstairs again and found Jasmine’s door open. He looked around and found her staring out the window. Khell approached Jasmine, holding out the bread.
“I got us some bread to eat for breakfast this morning. I hope you had a good sleep.”
“Yes I did, it was actually one of the best I’ve had in a long time.”
Jasmine took the bread and broke it into 2 pieces and gave one to Khell. They quickly ate it and went outside, heading towards the new trail where they were going to explore. Jasmine looked back at Freeport, sighed, and started walking away from the town.

A couple hours later, they were rather far away from Freeport, deep in the forest. Jasmine was surprised of how well Khell knew this whole area around here. A fair distance ahead of them, they heard steady footsteps. Jasmine looked at Khell with a concern on her face and quickly put her hand on her dagger. They stopped and listened to the area around them. Sure enough, they were footsteps, and sounded like they were walking in a fast pace. Jasmine and Khell started walking towards where the sound was, and a tall figure appeared. A tanned man with black hair was walking towards Freeport, with a serious look on his face.
“Who goes there?” Khell yelled at the man, whose voice echoed through the forest.
The man stopped and turned quickly towards where Jasmine and Khell stood with a surprised look on his face.
“If you’re going to Freeport, you shouldn’t because dragons are approaching the town.”
The man frowned and took a step forward to Khell and Jasmine.
“How do you know about the dragons?”
Jasmine looked at the man with curiosity.
“We just left Freeport a couple hours ago. One of the townspeople told us about dragons heading towards the city, and now everyone knows and the whole town is in a panic. The last I heard was there were at least 5 of them, coming there soon.”
The man frowned and didn’t smile at all, and looked at the ground.
“I live in Freeport. I must return to my town and rescue my family and protect Freeport.”
“But there is no way that just us normal people could ever battle something as fierce as a dragon. Even yourself, you couldn’t stand a chance against one of them. There may be more coming too, so its suicide. What did you say your name was?”
The man looked over at Jasmine
“I am Vaalic Demonshire, and who might you be?”
“I am Jasmine Eclipse, and this elf is Khellandros Amakiir. We are travelers, but we landed upon Freeport when we needed more supplies.” She looked at Khell over at Khell and at Vaalic. “We would have stayed and helped fight, but didn’t for a few reasons. I hate to see the townspeople in the state that they were in.”
Vaalic looked over at Jasmine and Khell with a serious look on his face.
“I’m heading back to Freeport no matter what. They need help, and they would need whatever help that they could get. Would you help? I know of the situation and how to handle it.”
Jasmine looked over at Khell, who tried to hide his frown. Jasmine turned to Khell and whispered “He knows how to fight, I’m sure that he can give us more information about what is happening.” Khell whispered back “but this isn’t our fight.” “Yes, I know, but I hate to see the townspeople like that. Besides, Featheren might have returned and can help too.” Khell frowned “It’s up to you”
Jasmine walked up to Vaalic with a smile on her face.
“Alright, we’ll head back. Maybe we can help the town and help minimize damage.”
Jasmine looked at Vaalic and Khell for their approval.

[DemaM]

Featheren flew towards the direction of the dragons, not exactly sure how he was going to help. For some reason, he felt calm as he flew north. He had a strange assurance that nothing horrible could happen, despite what happened to him. Things would change soon, he knew, they already have. Life would never be the same, anywhere.

The two black pouches tied to his belt opposite of his sword. The feathers in the pouches were raven feathers fitting he thought. Featheren planned to catch them by surprise. Fail that, he could try to blind them. A large red sun began to set. “Storm tomorrow,” Featheren whispered to Ko’pan.

The green forest underneath of his began to break. He could feel the crisp air eddying around his slight body. He leaned forward on Ko’pan to let her know to look for a place to land. He would stay the night in the forest. He loosed his rapier in the scabbard; no one could be sure what lurked in the forest in the night. Ko’pan circled around a clearing in the forest. It seemed strange to Featheren, it was too circular.

He jumped off Ko’pan at about 3 meters. Doing a somersault he drew his sword. Landing on both feet, fairly lightly, he looked around. It was just dark enough that he could not see very far into the forest. Ko’pan circled around at about 5 meters over the air. The circle was about 30 meters in diameter, and the turf looked nicely mowed.

For a few moments it was completely silent. The only thing he could hear was Ko’pan’s wing’s ruffling in the air above him. The shadows were growing all around him. Off to the eastern side of the clearing he heard a crack. Featheren turning towards the side, he crouched. He lifted his sword over his right ear, he crept towards it.

All of the sudden, he heard sheep baa behind him. First it was one, the three. Before it was done, he could have guess there was at least 50 sheep all around him. In the midst of all the baying he heard a laugh. The as the laugh grew louder, the sheep became quiet. A man stepping out of the edge of the forest, clapping.

The next morning he to woke Ko’pan screeching, “The dragons! Quick, Silver Bahamut, they’ve already flown over us.”

Off towards the south, he could see five Dragon Knights heading towards Freeport. He ran towards the center of the clearing. Looking up, he gave a long whistle. Ko’pan flew right over him, gliding. He jumped on Ko’pan as she began to lift. Turning around, he saw a great dragon lifting into the air.

He leaned into Ko’pan tapping his lance on her side. The dragons flew in a large “V.” He climbed higher and higher. The Knights would not be accustomed to looking up and behind them, not here. He drew closer and closer to the. The updraft from the ground helped Ko’pan glide without losing altitude. Drawing close to the rear Knight, he notched an arrow in his bow. Praying, he traced in front the knight. He released unsure of his shot. The arrow met the Knight behind his helmet above his breastplate hitting him in the spine. The Knight jolted in his saddle, and then tumbled out of it. The rider-less dragon roared. With him turned another Knight. Putting his bow down, he took up his lance.

Just then, he saw Silver Bahamut attack the other Dragon Knight. It would be just him, and this dragon.

The dragon raged towards him and Ko’pan spewing fired. Ko’pan fell straight down. Then flew straight up curving backwards, rolled, and it was over the dragon… One large swoosh of the wing, they were ahead. Featheren jumped off, and pointed the lance straight down. He placed the featherlance in the spine of the dragon, between the wings. Pulling it out, he chopped at its wing, from the back up. He cut the thick leather. The dragon screaming with rage.

Featheren jumped off of the dragon, and landed on Ko’pan. The Dragon was losing altitude, heading towards the forest. Now it was trying to get away. Featheren flew ahead of it, and began pelting with arrows. Most bounced off. This further infuriated the dragon. Looking up, it spewed fire at Featheren. Just then Featheren threw his lance. It flew straight into its mouth. With a jerk, it fell limp towards the ground.

Looking around, he could not see any other Dragon Knights, or Silver Bahamut. He went down to retrieve his Featheren lance. When he found the dragon in a clearing, Ko’pan landed near it. The pulled out his lance and wiped it on the grass. Sitting atop a stump, Sliver clapped his now human hands.

[SilverBahamut]

The past few months had brought back alot of memories. The time I actualy had to rule a kingdom rather then save it. I had attended a few meetings with the lord of Freeport. Mostly just social understandings. But the entire time I had been haunted by the recent past. I had visions of the evil spirit. That bastard told me things, like I shall never get the rest I deserve. The odd thing is I let it get to me. It was afterall just a dream. That shouldn't happen. But when matters involved ShadowRune, they seemingly happened.

One morning I awoke in a cold sweat. Death and chaos was what graced my dreams. I slowly began to change into my clothing, trying to forget. This morning I decieded to skip breakfast. I just left the Inn without saying a word, and walked the foggy streets. The sun had just rised and I basked in its glory. This morn is unusualy beautiful. A releif from these dreams. I thought looking around.

When the fog cleared, and the sun was half way to noon, I reached the palace. I was greeted by a few of the people, and then sent off to see the lord.

"I'm telling you it can't be done!" Lord Petrish bellowed, slamming his fist down on the table. "With such a pesamistic attitude like that nothing will ever get done Petrish you fool." Another council member gestured with a snobbish tone. "Gentlemen, we are talking about human lives here. Those people need homes and jobs." I said rubbing my beared. "My lord Dravven, you must understand. It is difficult to adapt another cities culture. Sure if the people of Faith Hills had come here slowly, we could accomidate them. But a sudden downpore is..." Lord Petrish fell silent.

Like a gust of wind, the doors bursted open and a young man ran in. The most bizarre look was on his face. It was a mixture of worry and fright. "M'lord! Dragons! They're attacking!" He shouted, gasping for air!

That moment in time froze the longest I could ever believe. And in that instance, one figure appeared in my thoughts. Dreams are funny arn't they? They somtimes have a habit of telling ones future. Which reminds me. When was the last time we spoke of this? It must have been that time when everything in exsistance had gotten confuseing. Dravven and myself were quite the team...

Without hearing the rest of everyones conversations, I knew in an instance what was being said. Vaalic and myself gathered what we could. It was time again to feel war at my back. Myself and Vaalic split our efforts to gather those still willing to fight. I got into an opening and transformed into the beast.

I flew for the forest east of Freeport. Trailock was heared of to reside there. He spent most of his time learning the ways of the forest. However, he spent a good portion of that time with Vindao and Nuanni. Poor soul. Attached to somthing he knows nothing of.

In the distance I made out three large figures, and what looked like smaller specs around them. I stopped my current course and headed for that site. As I got closer, I reconized the three large shapes. Dragons. On them were familiar riders. Bearing the crest, of the Flurin Empire.

I flew at a more slow speed while I gathered some energy. By the time I got there, I released the white light from my jaws. It thrusted through both the dragon and the rider. One of the specs turned out to be a rider on a flying horse. The being threw his spear at one of the remaining dragons and it died.

Things being said and done, the rider landed on the ground and retreived there spear. I too landed and transformed into human shape. I started to applaud there effort. In such a time, we could use another able hand.

"Well done my friend. In such a time of chaos, we could use another hand to protect our way of lives. Such an attack would certainly destroy us. I am Lord Dravven Nights. Formally ruler of the kingdom Faith Hills. I wish our current situation warented time to speak to each other in cozy surroundings, but if you wish to join our plight, come, fly with me to the forest north of here. I must gather a friend." I said in a hurry to change into a dragon once more.

[Jake]

I had found him, Vaalic leaving a cave. The cave of the Dragn and her ridder. There was much to find out. But Vaalic had failed to seek me out if there was trouble in the land as I asked him to do. Why would Vaalic see them before me or the others much closer to him.

As Vaalic reached cover under the tree's I sprang. Dropping down from the branches above landing silently behind him. He had senced me and turned. I was in my transformed state. My white hair hung over my white eyes. I could not help but give a jester like smile at him before tieing back my hair.

He was shocked for a brife moment but settled knowing it was me and that I had no means of hurting him since he was my friend. But I oten wonder why he has become the way he is over this past mouths.

" Tell me Vaalic, why to you fight for so long to have you family, and once you achived this you run off to memebers of government to solve thier problems instead of being with your loved ones?? Don't they neeed you more then ever?? " My words had a coldness to their speaking but he did not answer. I was maybe to direct.

"I have seen the new treat, I have had a taste of their power. I was far in the forests up north towards the old tower, I was in the tree tops when I saw them floking over head. I was seen and attacker son after. By as you can see I mean it out. "

I pulled back the thick folds of cloth around my neck to reveal a bloodied burn up the side of my neck most to my pointed ear.

"Vaalic these dragon are now here and they dont mean to make peace with this land. Why do you see the dragon in the cave and not your friends, your allies? Is the dragon mistress connnected to this?? "

I leaned back agents the tree trunk and looked at him. He was looking back, looking over me. My was fine clothes were ripped and torn, I had been in the woods for a long time. I waited for answers to my questions.

[Vaalic]

"Who goes there?"
Vaalic froze, caught off guard by the call. Without hesitation he turned to where he knew someone must be standing. He was surprised to see anyone out here, and felt foolish for not noticing them sooner.
"If you're going to Freeport, you shouldn't because dragons are approaching the town."
Vaalic took in the sight of the two standing before him. He noticed the speaker was Elven and carried a bow. He could be a hunter, or woodsman, but at worst he was a rogue. The woman he was with carried only a dagger that Vaalic could see and looked as though she had been traveling for some time. They had told him what he already knew, and it caused his mood to darken. Vaalic took a slow step closer before he spoke.
"How do you know about the dragons?"
Vaalic had been waiting for the elf to reply, but this time it was the woman who spoke.
"We just left Freeport a couple hours ago. One of the townspeople told us about dragons heading towards the city, and now everyone knows and the whole town is in a panic. The last I heard was there were at least five of them, coming there soon."
They had heard the same news as he, but the reminder of the dragon's arrival was difficult to hear. Vaalic lowered his eyes to the ground as he though of his family, and friends that were still there, and still in danger.
"I live in Freeport. I must return to my town, rescue my family and protect Freeport."
"But there is no way that just us normal people could ever battle something as fierce as a dragon. Even yourself, you couldn't stand a chance against one of them. There may be more coming too, so its suicide. What did you say your name was?"
The woman was right, there was no chance they would defeat all the dragons. It would be difficult, if not impossible for him to defeat even one. Vaalic knew that Sil would do what he could, but in the end they would take him down. Even if Vindao and Nuanni honored their word and fought with them the chances were next to nothing. Ideas were already playing at the back of his mind on how they could handle this situation.
"I am Vaalic Demonshire, and who might you be?"
"I am Jasmine Eclipse, and this elf is Khellandros Amakiir. We are travelers, but we landed upon Freeport when we needed more supplies. We would have stayed and helped fight, but didn't for a few reasons. I hate to see the townspeople in the state that they were in."
"I'm heading back to Freeport no matter what. They need help, and they would need whatever help that they could get. Would you help? I know of the situation and how to handle it."
Vaalic didn't feel as confident as he sounded, but he knew he needed to be back in Freeport as soon as he could. He waited impatiently as they quietly conversed amongst themselves. It only took a moment before they were decided and the woman, Jasmine walked closer to him with a small smile on her lips.
"Alright, we'll head back. Maybe we can help the town and help minimize damage."
Vaalic forced a smile he didn't feel. It was hard for him to feel anything at times like these. He noticed the elf Khellendros expression was as impassive as stone. He didn't know what he was thinking about the situation, but he didn't much care.
"You're help will be appreciated. Every person we have can make a difference. We must make haste. It will not be long before the dragons are upon us."
The woman nodded and the three began walking back towards Freeport. Vaalic had picked up his pace, trying to make up for lost time. He had gotten ahead of the other two when someone came down behind him. Turning in surprise Vaalic gripped the hilt of his sword, ready to draw steel when he recognized Jake. Vaalic was glad to see him, though his approach had startled him.
"Tell me Vaalic, why to you fight for so long to have you family, and once you achieved this you run off to members of government to solve their problems instead of being with your loved ones? Don't they need you more then ever?"
Jake's words were cold and direct. Vaalic couldn't say anything. He knew Jake was right. He had fought for so long to keep his family alive and safe. He loved his wife more than anything, but their bastard son he could feel nothing for. He did not hate the child, he couldn't, but he could never love it. The child had been the reason he was becoming more distant with his family, but he could only blame himself.
"I have seen the new threat, I have had a taste of their power. I was far in the forests up north towards the old tower; I was in the treetops when I saw them flocking overhead. I was seen and attacked soon after. But as you can see I made it out. "
Vaalic looked at the bloodied burn Jake had received. It looked like it hurt terribly, but Jake was impassive, as though it was long healed.
"Vaalic these dragon are now here and they don't mean to make peace with this land. Why do you see the dragon in the cave and not your friends, your allies? Is the dragon mistress connected to this? "
Jake leaned back against a tree trunk and waited. Vaalic took a deep breath, before he began speaking. As he began Khellendros and Jasmine caught up to the two.
"Jake, this is Khellendros and Jasmine, they have agreed to come to the aid of Freeport."
Jake acknowledged their presence, but didn't move. Vaalic continued talking, not giving the chance for anyone to interrupt.
"I came here before seeking you and the others only because I needed to know if Vindao and Nuanni knew anything about these coming dragons. We are fortunate to have found each other. A time of choice has come to us once again. They told me that this could only be the Flurin Empire. They will have this land for their own. We must decide. To let them take it would bring slavery, but to fight them would mean our deaths. I have decided to stand against them, but that is a decision each should make. Dravven is out trying to find the others, and we need to bring each other together again. We will meet together at my home to discuss what we are going to do. I for one will not submit to slavery, but I know they are more powerful than we can confront directly. Our country has little or no protection against dragons. There is not much that could be done, but I will not give up. I will do anything and everything I can to work against the Dragons. Will you stand with me against the might of an Empire?"

[Jake]

Jake had seen the other two that he had ran into but they were of no concern to Jake. Jake was simply upset with Vaalic and his actions. He approched Vaalic slowly. Vaalic towered over Jake, his Elven size never give away his strength.

"Yes, yes I will stand by you Vaalic."

Jake looked away from Vaalic.
"But...", with a simple movment Jake's fist struck Vaalic gut. Vaalic stood back from the blow an held himself then dropped to one knee. Jake approched him again and sat down on one kneee before him.

"Next time please go to your friends first for aid before wondering off far from your home and protection. You know the Dragon Mistress can not be trust in this kind of situation or at least with out caution. What if you had meet up with the attackers as I did you could have been hurt and killed and no one whould have had the faithest idel as you what happened to you, not to mention you could have hidden your family at the first sign of danger well before now. You no better then that my old friend."

Jake stood and put out his hand to Vaalic and helped him to his feet. They then started off again for Freeport. Jake had been thinking, he wondered how Kitiara was doing. It now seemed so long ago that they meet. And wonders if they will ever meet again.

[Vaalic]

Vaalic knew that Jake would stand against the dragons. Jake's answer confirmed his thoughts, but there was more to it. Before Vaalic had time enough to blink Jake struck him in the stomach. The blow knocked the air from his lungs. Vaalic had been unprepared, and suddenly felt dizzy. Before he lost his balance Vaalic went down to one knee, trying to force the air back into his lungs. It had caught him off guard, and it took him several moments before he was breathing regularly again. Vaalic listened to Jake as he caught his breath and he knew Jake had a right to be angry. Vaalic probably would have felt the same way if their roles had been reversed. Jake offered his hand and Vaalic accepted the help to his feet. Vaalic couldn't help but laugh as they began walking back towards Freeport.

"I see you have found a subtle way to remind me of who my friends are."
Vaalic laughter stopped, as he suddenly became more serious.
"I understand why you're angry. I should have come to you and the others first. I know the Dragon Mistress cannot be fully trusted, but she has told me things about this new threat. From what I can gather we are up against an Empire... a force so powerful that they cannot be stopped. As we have seen: any force, no matter how powerful, has a weakness. This is an enemy that we have never faced and know nothing about. If the Dragon Mistress turns on us now we are doomed before it even begins. We need her, at least until we know more about what we face. If I would have come to you earlier you would have accompanied me, and if her intentions had been treacherous neither of us would be alive to fight against them. It was a chance I took, but it couldn't be avoided. I still do not trust her, or her rider, but they are the only ones that can help us discover a weakness of our enemies. We must find any of the others that may join with us, but it may be difficult to find them. I think that Irish has returned to health. He would be a valuable addition if he were willing to come with us. I have not seen Trailock or Kitiara for some time but we must find them. They need to be told what is going on and they too have a difficult decision to make."

[DemaM]

Featheren watched as Lord Dravven Nights flew north. For some reason he couldn't follow him. He knew he could not abandon the plight of Freeport, of Khell or Jasmine. But something drew him away from the whole mess.

He flew east.

He would return to Freeport. But the other Raven were beaconing him away.

[Vaalic]

Nobody said a word as they walked back to Freeport. In a way it make the hike easier, but at the same time it became increasingly difficult to break the silence. The silence continued until they came into view of the city. On the outside everything appeared to be calm. Not a single townsperson walked on the streets. Vaalic stopped for a brief moment to catch his breath before he turned to face the three who were accompanying him.

"Jake, we need to try and gather everyone together. Could you go to my home and see if Dravven has found anyone? If he hasn't we will need to hurry. We don't have much time before we may have to leave the town. Khellendros, Jasmine, if you still wish to help, go with him. I must speak with Somber about these matters and I will return before long."

Khellendros and Jasmine looked at each other, but didn't share any words and Jake stayed silent. Vaalic needed to speak with Somber and although Jake's silence could either have been an agreement or a sign that he had something better to do. Vaalic hoped he would listen, as they needed to know who was missing and where they could find them. Nobody agreed with what he said, but nobody argued and that was the best he would get. Turning away from them Vaalic hurried to reach where Somber had made her home. It was on the farthest side of the town, but he made it there quickly with nobody else on the roads to hold him up. The only ones on the street were small groups of guards patrolling. He could easily hear them coming and decided it may be best to avoid crossing paths. Tension was high right now, and he couldn't afford to stop and explain who he was and what he was doing. The guards were easy to avoid, and it didn't take him long to reach Somber's home. The window was closed, but candlelight filtered through the cracks. Vaalic knocked on the door lightly. No answer came, and he knocked again, but before he had finished the door was opened a crack. Upon seeing who her visitor was the door opened wider, offering him entrance. Vaalic walked inside, as the door shut quickly behind him and locked. He turned to face Somber, who was still standing with her back to the door. The room was empty but for the two.

"You are alone here? Have your servants left?"
"I sent them away. I was hoping you would come."
"Then you know what we face."

Her answer came as a nod while she walked closer to Vaalic. She took a seat on an ordinary wooden chair as Vaalic found a seat himself.

"They are powerful... Someone has to stand against them, and that is exactly what I plan to do. I have come here to tell you this, but I also ask for your help. I must admit I have missed you these past months. I rely on your advice and wisdom. We have faced danger before, but nothing like this. I don't know if I can do this without you."

Vaalic was about to say more, but stopped. The silence spoke as he watched her reaction to his words.

[Jake]

Vaalic told Jake to go to him home to see if Dravven had collected any of the others from times ago. Jake simply started walking, the other two following him from behind. He could hear no talk between them, not even a whisper.

They had reached the outer edge of the city, passing through pastures and small farming lands, most of them give to settlers from old Faith.

Jake stopped and turned on his two followers.

"I am sorry I have missed your names, what are they??"

The two looked at each other as if amazed by the fact that he spoke finally.

"Khellendros and Jasmine", Khellendros said gesturing to his company.
Jake nodded and turned once more and started to walk silently once more. It was not long before they had reached Vaalic's home. The towns people were no where to be seen, as was Dravven.

Vaalic's door handle was turned ever so slowly, and as to Jake's surprise it was not looked. He could not sence any one he knew in the house. Vaalic had always looked his door, And Jake was having trouble senceing who or what it was inside the room.

"Stay out here, I'll call if I need you but I doubt it will ever come to that." Jake said with a smurk to Khellendros and Jasmine.

And in an instant Jake burst through the door, rolling over the floor then rising to his position his open hand out at head level, turning his palm to the roof. A sudden flash, and then a bright light. A small ball of energy had formed and flaoted above his palm. It lit up the room so as he could see all. Jake's long white hair hung free about his face glisening in the light.

The front door burst open and there Khellendros and Jasmine entered.

"I told you to stay out side!"

But they looked at him with not a care in the world. Suddenly it appeared, a figure stood in the door way leading into the nextroom...

"Show your self!!"

[Vindao_Nuanni]

Vindao took his time fastening his breastplate and other armor. He was in no hurry, but neither was he trying to waste time. The Flurin had deemed them deserters... traitors, with good reason. Upon becoming a Knight of the Flurin Vindao had sworn several oaths. The first was his loyalty to the Empire, and the second was his vow he would sooner fall on his sword than be taken prisoner. He had since made another oath, which he held above all others: to remain loyal and protect Nuanni Si'injan'dre, his dragon, mount, and friend. He had no intention to ever break any oath he had ever taken, but the Empire had given him no choice. They deemed him a deserter, while he was out gathering information for them. Instead of allowing him to return to face the charges of his own free will, the knights sent after him demanded that he be taken into their custody. It may have simply been an oversight on their part, but it was a demand he could not accept. He would sooner fall on his sword than be taken prisoner, but that would also break his vow to protect Nuanni. Forcing a knight to decide between three conflicting oaths is a dangerous game. His decision was made quickly, as he decided to break his oath to his Empire and remain true to his vow to Nuanni.

These thoughts and the consequences of his actions plagued him as he buckled the straps of his armor. He had no doubt that he had made the right choice. What other option had they given him? They were now renegades. To be killed on sight by any knight of the Flurin. Considering the power of the Empire, this was in no uncertain terms a death sentence. The dishonor of becoming a renegade would be too much for most knights to handle. Vindao knew that most knights who found themselves in this situation either fell on their sword, or eventually surrendered. Vindao had no doubts of Nuanni's loyalty. She would remain with him until death. Their souls were entwined. Even after death they would find each other, or so they believed. Some dragons were selfish, or greedy, but Nuanni was different. She cared as much for him as she did for herself. It made his decision all the more difficult. He had sentenced her to his fate. He was sure that if she were to go back to the Empire, and bring him to them they would pardon her from their crimes... but she would not consider it. She was doomed, as was he. The two of them could live through this, if they laid low and did nothing to draw attention to themselves. They may have trouble blending in with the common folk at first, but they could manage. It would not be difficult to remain hidden, but their training had been for battle, and neither found a calm peaceful life appealing.

"Do you agree with my decision to leave the Empire?"
Vindao asked as he put the last touches on his armor and looked up. Nuanni had been watching him attach his armor, but wasn't surprised by his question. Vindao held an emotionless facade. For anyone to see him they would not be wrong in believing he held no emotion, but Nuanni knew better. She knew him possibly better than he knew himself, and she could see his turmoil.
"We did what was needed of us. It pains me to leave our home, but that is a small sacrifice to make to prevent our separation. You know that if we had gone back we would have been found guilty and executed."
"No... I don't know that. Not for certain. You could have told them it was my decision. I would have taken full responsibility for our actions without a word of complaint. You would be pardoned, and set free."
"I know you would have. That is why I would not have let you go."
"Then we are in this until the end."
Nuanni lowered herself to allow Vindao to pull himself up into his riding harness. As she began to rise Vindao attached the restraint belt to the side of his armor. He was preparing for battle, and it would prevent him from falling if Nuanni was forced to do any aerial acrobatics. They were not going out to die, but merely to scout. They would avoid a battle only if they were hopelessly outnumbered. Otherwise, they would make their names known and feared throughout the Empire. Nuanni slowly brought them out from inside their cave into the open daylight. It was a clear day, with no rain clouds in sight. Nuanni pushed off and rose into the air. Almost immediately she could see another figure, not far in the distance: a large silver dragon. He was not heading their way, but he was close enough to recognize that it was the Silver they had traveled here with.
"Shall we speak to the Silver?"
"We are no longer enemies. Perhaps we should remind him of that."
Nuanni began to fly. She was a beautiful dragon, flying flawlessly through the air. Her smaller size made her so much more agile than most dragons. Though most were bigger her maneuverability in battle was matched by her ferociousness to make her a sight to be seen. When one saw them in battle, there was no doubt of how they had earned the rank of Elite Dragon Knight. The Silver saw them coming, and prepared himself for battle. Nuanni let out a dragon's cry. It was a terrifying sound to any creature that couldn't understand it. The Silver understood her peaceful call, though neither let their guard down.
"We have come to scout the forces that move against us. Do you have any information?"
The Silver gave a brief recount of his recent battle, and the victory he achieved.
"So you have killed the scouts. Without their return more will be sent in the morning. Do not believe you have won. They sent only a few now, but with their deaths they will come at us with a full talon. Without an army of our own we will be helpless to stop them. Find comfort in the fact that you have bought your people another night of freedom."

[Jasmine_Eclipse]

The hike to Freeport was long and tense; nobody said a single word on the way back. Jasmine assumed it was because the dragons coming to Freeport was on everybody’s mind, and it was a difficult time for everyone. She felt an uncomfortable feeling being with the strangers she just met, so she decided to keep her mouth shut, while occasionally looking over at Khell who was staring ahead with no expression on his face. When everyone arrived at Freeport, Vaalic took off to talk to Somber while Jake, Khell and herself stood there in silence. Jake started walking towards Vaalic’s house, so Khell and Jasmine followed him in silence. Jasmine just gave this Khell a concerned look but didn’t say a single word. She hated how Jake kept on ignoring her and Khell and didn’t really seem to appreciate what they are doing for them. They are giving their help to try and help out Freeport, which was a dangerous and possibly deadly fight that would happen soon. Suddenly, Jake stopped and turned towards herself and Khell.
"I am sorry I have missed your names, what are they??"
Jasmine looked over at Khell, and they both were amazed that Jake finally spoke. Khell spoke up and introduced himself and Jasmine. Jake just nodded and started to walk again towards his destination. Jasmine felt a bit better that he finally acknowledged their presence, but still wasn’t content with how things are going. The group finally reached his home, and Jake went to the door and turned the handle.
“Stay out here, I’ll call if I need you but I doubt it would ever come to that” Jake said with a smirk on his face. Jake went through the door into the house.
Jasmine and Khell stood there for a few minutes, completely stunned. Jasmine was mad, and she looked over at Khell, who had an irritated look on his face. Jasmine motioned to Khell to go inside, so she followed him in they went in through the front door. They found Jake standing there with a light in front of him, illuminating the whole room.
“I told you to stay out side!” Jake yelled at them.
Jasmine just looked at Jake with disbelief; she didn’t care what he said anymore. Suddenly, a figure appeared in the door way leading to the next room.
“Show your self!” Jake yelled.
Jasmine looked and saw a woman appear into the light. She was shorter than Jasmine, and had long black hair. She had a surprised look on her face and walked forward cautiously. She looked at Jasmine and Khell, and then at Jake with an acknowledging smile on her face.
“Hello, I see that you have made it back to Freeport. Where is Vaalic?”
“Vaalic has gone to see Somber to speak about the difficulty that Freeport is facing right now and trying to get everyone together to make up a plan. He should be home shortly. Sorry about the intrusion, the door was unlocked.”
The woman laughed and smiled, “That sounds like him, trying to save the world like usual. I was expecting him to return shortly, that’s why I left the door unlocked.” She looked over to where Jasmine and Khell were standing. “Who might you guys be?”
Jasmine stepped forward, “I am Jasmine Eclipse, and this is Khellandros Amakiir. We met up with Jake and Vaalic in the woods just outside Freeport. We have come to help out Freeport against the dragons. Who might you be?”
“I am Angel Demonshire, Vaalic’s wife.”
“Nice to meet you, might I ask what happened to all the townspeople? Khell and myself were here earlier and it was chaos.”
“The guards told everyone to stay in their homes, they don’t want people running around and fighting when the dragons are coming, and so the guards can get organized.”
Jasmine nodded. In the next room a cry echoed throughout the house. Angel quickly went into the next room and came back holding a baby. It was a small baby boy, yet it looked half elf. Jasmine looked at Angel, who was rocking the baby in her arms, and making soothing noises trying to calm the child down.
“If you don’t mind me saying, your child appears to be half elf.. But you and Vaalic are both human….” Jasmine’s voice trailed off.
Angels face darkened and she looked down. It appeared that comment struck a nerve with her.. Jasmine immediately felt guilty and awful for making that comment.
“It was a while ago, I was raped by an evil man.. There was nothing I could do..” she said softly.
Jasmine looked sympathetically at Angel, and kept quiet. She turned towards Jake and changed the subject.
“What should we do now?”

[SomberOne]

Somber sat staring at the fire, Vaalics words tossing about in her mind. How at h ome she had felt these last months, here alone, doing for herself more and for others less, what a luxery it had been, and how wasteful. She realized then that for as long as her people had need of her, she would be there, to guide them, and to protect them from the very fire she feared would consume them.

"Vaalic...." His name rolled off her tongue, much to her liking, she had missed using it, and over passed months had only whispered it. "What will become of us..." her words trailed off lost in a moments reverie. She held up her finger as if to object to him mouthing something he did not know. "It does not matter, we will survive...we always have."

Somber moved from his sight, entranced by the thoughts, by the shear power of the creatures they were about to face. She had become a dragon once, would the need for her family's ability arise once more. She hoped not, she feared if the need arised she would be unable. "And what of Bahamut, has there been word of him?" she queried, and poured herself a hefty portal of wine, drank its full and filled it again. He remained silent, also something she would have to find out for herself, Dravven then, he would know...right?

"Then of Angel, do you have a child?" By now she was standing by his chair, silently enjoying the warmth that consumed her worries.

He let out his breath, it was long and thin, and she felt his muscles clench slightly beneath his jerkin.. "Yes we have a son..." he said it proudly, though before he could continue, Somber broke in... "Please pass my happiness to Angel, I know through everything you and her have been through this must be a blessing to you both." Her heart gripped suddenly and she turned away and passed quickly through a doorway, comming out with a box, gently wrapped with a blue ribbon. "Pass this on to Angel would you, I have been meaning to do so for months now, but hadn't the nerve." Somber smiled coyly, hiding the third-wheel feelings that kept popping up while he was around. She realized then she had strayed away from the point, there was a lot to be done, and a lot she had missed out on, but also it was time to draw this meeting to a close, it was late and he must get back to his own reality.

"What can I do for ye then, MiLord, I am at your service."

He stood immidiately hearing just that particular note in her voice. "For starters you can meet me at the Theives Den tomorrow morning."

"Aye, till then MiLord... till then." She drew her breath deeply as she closed the door behind him, and fitted herself just there, pressed against the back of the door. As she let out her breath, she straightened herself, and started tugging at her skirt, and primped her hair, as if to fix any imperfection, her cheeks were rosy with shame, but she took another chug at her wine, and fell asleep before the fire.

[Jake]

Jake being half Elven himself never liked the fact he was shorter then average, but now it anoyed him even more with this women who stood slightly taller then him, as what we are to do next??

The energy ball faded away in the palm of his hand.
Angle lit a lamp.

"Women, you dont do what I say to start with and now you ask me what we are to do?....", Jake said with a low voice as he tired back his long white hair showing his Elven ears.

His transformation was reversing to his normal state. His hair returned to it's grey and his white eyes back to the bright green and his so pale suddenly became more full of light and colour.

Jasmine was shocked at the transformation Jake undertook. She stood back. Angle had known Jake for a some time now and almost smiled at the reaction the others gave towards Jake. Jake had forgotten he was already changed when he meet with these two and could now understand the shock.

Walking up to Jasmine he pointed his finger out to her, she stepped back only to find her self cornered. His finger lifted her chin showing her face in the lamp light.

"Do not fear me girl.", Her face began to calm.

"Do I look like a girl to you?" she said leaning more towards him now.

"No, but you act like one." he said with a smile.

She turned her head away from him, he back away.

"Angle who are you these days, I have not seen you for mouths now.", Jake and angle talked and greeted ech other. While Jasmine paced the room. Jake had insulted her and Angle soon noticed it and told Jake what he must do.

Jake was not happy with this but he knew it to be for the best in future.

He approched Jasmine Khell standing between them, he was unhappy with the way Jake acted as well.

"Jasmine, I know you do not wish to listen to me now, but if you do not follow my lead in this land we could all be put in danger. Our mission here for the moment as you asked is to wait for Dravven to return here to find out who he had rounded up for out offensive."

Angle soon went to them and spoke something of Jake not being good with strangers...