Faith Hills Saga (RP)

[Trailock]

After Sartek and Thoryn had left the palace, Nuanni and Vindao blocked the entrance. During Dravvens and Vindaos conversation, I had been gazeing upon Nuanni. I started to walk towards her when Vindao bolted off towards her and they both took to the air. A few ran past me to the doorway. I finally reached the door as the conversations outside ended. Nuanni flew higher into the air and rolled to the right. She grabbed onto another dragon and started to free fall with it. Just as they were about to hit ground, she let go of it and flew up once more. "Dravven, you must help her. I don't think those dragons will fall for her tactics again." I said in a desperate tone. He slowly noded his he slipped off to the side. I turned back to the fight above. The other two dragons were circleing her. I pulled out my sword and held it high into the air. Wind picked up beneath me and pull me towards the sky. Once I reached a good height, I pointed my sword at one of the other dragons. The wind swept me off towards it. "Grarealo! Behind you!" I heared the dragons rider shout. The dragon turned around and its belly was shown. I increased the wind and stabbed Hrathnir into it. The dragon shreiked and grabbed me with his giant claw. It raised me up and threw me towards the ground. I closed my eyes and thought of my sword returning to me. In an instant, it appeared once more into my sheith. Just as I was about to pull it out, I was grabbed out of the air by a giant mouth. I was placed onto Silvers back. Together, we both flew up to be at Vindaos and Nuannis side.

"Do you two know that you interupt too much." Vindao said looking over to us. "We won't let our friends die." I said returning a smile. "Would you two bicker at a different time? Keep yourselves focused." Silver growled. "Hold on Trailock." Silver said. I grabbed onto his scales hard. "Silver Dragon! We have no qualms with you. This is a matter of the Flurin empire. Do not interfere!" A dragon rider yelled down to us. "These are our friends! If you have a qualm with them, then you have a qualm with us!" And without hesitation, Silver flew after one of the dragons. It turned around and faced Silver. The two dragons were face to face, clawing and biteing each other. Meanwhile I was stuck holding on for dear life almost upside down. I pulled out my sword and let myself drop. Once I held my blade up, I stopped my decent. Silver could handle this dragon by himself. I flew for Nuanni who was still watching what the other dragon will do. I flew up beside Vindao. "Need any help?" I asked the two. I got no answer. All I got was them flying towards the other dragon. I flew for the dragons belly again. I made it ahead of Nuanni and stabbed my sword into the dragon. But I didn't let go again. "Guardians of the air! Strike at my enemy!" I shouted this and my sword started to glow a bluish white. Electricity circled the insides of the dragon. I pulled my sword out just as Nuanni grappled onto the dragon. I watched as she began to tear chunks of flesh out and free fell with the dragon. I turned around to face Silver but he was falling to the ground just like Nuanni. The two were useing the same tactics to take out the dragons. Nuanni leveled herself just as the other dragon crashed into the ground. Silver, he grabbed onto the dragons neck and started to spin it just as they were falling. He released it and the dragon flew off the island. Our groups dragons landed on the ground. Silver transformd back into a human and rejoined our group. It took me a little while to reach the ground. We were all rather high in the air and I had some ground to cover. By the time I reached the ground, everyone had regrouped. "Who were they and why are there other dragons around. I thought I had slain the last." Silver asked Vindao and Nuanni. "As the dragon rider said, they are from the Flurin empire." Vindao answered. "Where is this Flurin empire?!" Dravven shouted, trying to restrain himself. "I might be able to answer that..." Everyone turned around to see Kala.

Kala explained that Terra and the Continant of Faith weren't the only land masses in our world. There was another land mass. The Chaosis Continant. In the center of this new land, was the Flurin empire. With their mighty dragon rider army, they ruled the continant. Dravven was rather shocked to hear this. But everyone shock was lost over time. The next day Dravven loaded everyone onto his back and flew down to the mainland. The ship had disappeared. After a bit, we flew back up to the island. We were all dropped off and Silver continued the search for the boat...

Its been almost a week since he had returned.

Vindao and Nuanni went off every once in a while to check up on him. He was doing alright. But he didn't want to return until he had seen the boat. Kala had tried her best to keep everyone happy. She went out of her way to make sure we were all well fed, well rested, and treated well in general. In the period we were here, we all helped Kala rebuild her kingdom. In turn, she had her mages read constantly of how to send people to far off lands. They predicted they would be ready in a week or two. So we were all stuck on this floating island. One day, the mornings air was thick. Something fowl as afoot.

"Trailock! Have you seen Vaalic?!" Angel cried jogging towards me. I faced her and shook my head. The two of us asked around if they had seen him. One had. He was alone and he ran off towards the edge of the island. "Angel, I want you to stay here with Kitiara. Jake, come with me." I said. Jake noded his head and together we left for the edge of the island. Sartek and Thoryn were still here! They were attacking the defensless Vaalic. "Well, at least we get to kill one of you!" Sartek growled and held his sword high above Vaalic. As he thrusted down, Jake stepped in the way, pushing Sarteks sword away, and grabbing Vaalic. When Jake recovered, we pulled out our swords and charged for Sartek and Thoryn. The two retreated to the very edge. "You two will not escape again!" I shouted. Thoryn winked and started to gyrate. In a few quick seconds, the two disappeared from the island. They were never seen again. A new thought came through my head. Will this world ever be at peace?

[Vindao_Nuanni]

The scene below them was growing less chaotic as the battle finally came to a stand still. They had chosen to remain neutral in this matter and they both were growing impatient. Nuanni circled the palace, waiting for the victor to emerge. They waited in silence until finally there was movement on the ground.
"I see something."
Sitting up Vindao looked down. He could see what she was talking about, but they were too far away to see who it was. Slowly, Nuanni began to spiral down in a graceful arc. They dropped lower and they were now able to make out who it was.
"Stay here."
Nuanni stopped her decent and circled overhead. They were still high above them. Higher than the palace stood, but they could now make out the ones that had come from the palace.
"There are only two?"
"They are escaping. Their Dark Lord has failed them.
"Shall we engage them?"
"No, we will let them escape. Land in front of the palace once they are gone."
Understanding, Nuanni circled the palace again, giving the ones on the ground enough time to escape safely. Once she was satisfied with their distance she brought herself down heavily in front of the palace. Vindao dismounted and turned to her.
"I will go in to see what has happened. Wait for me here. Do not let anyone pass unless I come out first."
Before Vindao could enter the palace the doors opened and several people came out. He recognized them as the Silver and his group. Upon seeing the blue dragon guarding their path they all stopped. Nuanni looked through the group and noticed that not all were present. Her gaze did fall on the Silver, then onto Trailock.
"Is it true that you have defeated the Dark Lord?"
The Silver was the one to step forward and answer.
"It is. Now leave us be."
"We shall. We are not here to fight. We are here to acknowledge your deeds and nothing more."
With a nod of his head Vindao turned around and walked back to Nuanni. He mounted her quickly and turned back to the group that stood before them.
"Perhaps we shall meet again."
Before they could leave Vindao saw Trailock pointing behind them and saying something to the Silver. Turning their attention away both Vindao and Nuanni looked that what was behind them. They were not pleased to see three shapes high in the sky moving quickly towards them. Three dragon riders were approaching with haste. Dragons being rare in this part of the world, there was no question who these riders were, or why they had come.
"The Fluirin has come."
"We wait for them."
Vindao and Nuanni waited with uneasy silence as the dragon riders came to circled above them. The Silver and his group had moved under the shelter of the palace roof, concealing their presence from the newcomers. The three riders were all mounted on blue dragons, though each was larger than Nuanni. One dragon landed in the street, only feet away from where Nuanni stood. The rider was dressed in similar clothing to Vindao, though he wore his battle armor. The remaining two dragons circled ahead, watching the events below them. The rider removed his helm so his words could be easily heard.
"We have come for you. You are to accompany us back to face charges of desertion."
"Desertion? We have come investigating the rumors of a Dark Lord."
"We are under orders to return you to the fortifications where you will be given an opportunity to plead your case."
"Very well. We will return with you."
"It seems not all sense has left you. Now, remove your weapons and dismount."
"Dismount? How would you have me return?"
"You are to ride with me on my mount, as my prisoner."
Vindao and Nuanni exchanged uneasy glances. Neither needed words to know what the other was thinking. In silent agreement Nuanni spoke. She was the smallest of the dragons around her, but she was well known and even feared, though none would openly admit it.
"We will accompany you back, but not as prisoners. Vindao rides none other than me."
The knight remained silent for only a moment.
"I have been ordered to take you as my prisoners. If you refuse you prove that these charges are true. You know that the penalty for desertion is execution."
"We agree to accompany you back, but not as prisoners."
"That is unfortunate. Do you understand what you are doing?"
Nuanni gave him another look, one that he knew well. She would not allow him to be taken prisoner, no matter what the reason was. She looked to him for his decision, though she knew the answer. They needed each other, and they both understood that. They would not tolerate being separated. With a subtle nod of his head he gave Nuanni her answer. Vindao looked up to the sky at the two dragons that circled overhead like vultures. They were watching everything that transpired below, but they would not be able to hear what was being said. Bringing his gaze back down, his eyes met with the knight.
"You could have handled this better. Now I fear we've made enemies out of allies. We will finish this in the skies."
Nuanni pushed off the ground, spreading her wings she quickly tried to gain altitude. The riders in the sky did not hesitate to charge. They dove down, taking advantage of their positioning. They were coming in close on both her sides, though they still seemed to keep their distance. As Nuanni tried to get to the sky Vindao worked to untie his lance from the side of the harness. The rider from the ground rose up underneath them, but was unable to get close enough to strike at Nuanni's underside. Vindao had the lance ready as the two riders from above dove for Nuanni. Each was going for one of her wings. Nuanni had her attention focused on the rider below her and was unaware of their danger.
"Down Right!"
Before Vindao had finished speaking Nuanni had folded in her right wing and turned her body to the side as she tried to roll out of the way. Holding the lance steady he aimed his tip. The dragon attacking her right was caught off guard, but was moving too fast to stop. It tired to pull up, but it was too late. It missed Nuanni's wing, and left its underside open. Using the lance Vindao pierced the dragon's hard scales and thick warm blood rained down onto him. Nuanni continued to roll, as Vindao pulled the lance free and wiped the blood from his eyes. He had wounded the dragon, but it wasn't enough. Her roll caused her to drop lower, colliding with the dragon below them. Nuanni had the advantage as she gripped with her claws and ripped into the dragon's side with her teeth. Together the two dragons were too heavy and they began to plummet. Nuanni was attacked viciously and would not release until Vindao told her, or the dragon was dead. Panicked, the other dragon tried to turn itself to sink its teeth in, but Nuanni tore large chunks from its side. The other dragon began flailing around, doing anything to turn itself. Nuanni had a firm grip, and she knew the dragon was helpless to stop her as he continued to shred the dragon's side. Shrieks of pain seemed deafening to those around. The rider drew his sword and slashed it across Nuanni's thigh. Vindao was unable to attack, but he watched as the two other riders attacked again and he could see they were falling too quickly and getting dangerously close to the ground.
"Release!"
Nuanni let her prey go, and spread her wings, stopping their swift decent. The other dragon was badly wounded, with several deep gashes, which would undoubtedly hinder its ability to continue in the battle. It continued to fall, but spread its wings, trying to slow itself down. It was too late, as the injured dragon crashed to the ground, destroying several buildings under its weight. Nuanni tried to rise with haste. She knew better than to be kept low to the ground. She needed the space to move. Her swiftness was her strength, and if she allowed herself to be trapped low to the ground they would make short work of her. The two remaining dragons attacked, this time with more caution. Vindao knew these men, as he knew all in his order. He had fought with them before as allies, but he didn't know them on a personal level. He knew that they were well trained, and although not elite, together they had a very real chance at bringing Nuanni down. The dragons drew close, but Nuanni had gotten to a safe height and they kept their distance. The dragons began circling her, trying to intimidate her. Nuanni and Vindao each watched one of the dragons circle them. Nuanni prepared to release her breath weapon when something shot up from the ground towards a dragon. She didn't see what it was, but she heard the dragon shriek. Whatever had wounded the dragon was cast away. It was then that she recognized Trailock. She couldn't explain how he managed to get up there, but he was there nonetheless. Then she saw him. The Silver had caught Trailock as he fell and they were now coming towards them.
"The Silver."
Vindao turned to look and saw the Silver flying towards them.
"We will take him down."
"No. He helped us. They attacked the other dragon."
Vindao didn't know what to say, and didn't have much time before the Silver and Trailock came close enough for them to shout.
"Do you two know that you interrupt too much?"
" We won't let our friends die."
Vindao was about to comment, but stopped himself. Trailock had a strange definition of friendship, and they would have to speak if they lived through the battle.
"Would you two bicker at a different time? Keep yourselves focused."
The odds had turned in their favor. Vindao and Nuanni were far more skilled and had more experience than both of their enemies combined. They had an excellent chance of winning as long as the Silver could distract one of them for a short time. He played his part perfectly as he attacked one of the riders. Vindao and Nuanni both turned their attention to the greatest threat. The remaining dragon still circled them slowly, and when Vindao saw movement from the corner of his eye he was about to draw his weapon. Trailock came up beside him un-expectantly. The wind seemed to be at his command, as he could fly without any explanation.
"Need any help?"
There was no time to answer, as Nuanni saw an opening. The dragon had allowed itself to drop lower than her, giving her the advantage. Without hesitation they moved, closing the space between them quickly. Somehow Trailock was faster, and struck the dragon in the belly. The dragon shrieked as its rider tried to do something, anything, to stop the man wounding his mount. The dragon and rider were both frantically trying to fend off Trailock and were left defenseless to Nuanni's attack. She began to maul the dragon as they began falling towards the streets below. Vindao watched with practiced skill as the ground came racing towards them. The enemy dragon had given up fighting and accepted its fate, so Vindao gave the order.
"Release!"
Nuanni pushed off of the dragon and spread her wings, watching the dragon fall to its death. Its wounds alone would have claimed its life, but letting it fall to the city below was a form of mercy.
Once their enemies were defeated Nuanni began to relax and they landed heavily on the ground. Followed by the Silver and Trailock. The others came out from the palace as the Silver became human again. Nuanni didn't understand how the Silver could prefer its weak human form to a dragon, but she said nothing.
"Who were they and why are there other dragons around? I thought I had slain the last."
"As the dragon rider said, they are from the Flurin Empire."
"Where is this Flurin Empire?!"
Vindao hesitated to answer. Although he was now a renegade, it had been his home for as long as he could remember and he didn't want to reveal any of their secrets. He had no wish to fight with them, but they brought it on themselves. As it was, a woman came from the palace and told that story. He didn't know where this woman had gotten her information from, but it was accurate. Vindao dismounted Nuanni, but stayed at her side. He was uncomfortable here, as he didn't know any of these people very well, but he did recognize the fact that they helped him. Slowly he walked up to Trailock and the Silver.
"You helped us, even at great risk to yourselves. I thank you for that."

[Vaalic]

Vaalic was still badly wounded as the dragons took to the sky. Everyone stayed under the cover of the Palace roof as the dragons battled. Vaalic tried to watch the battle, but his vision was becoming blurry and he was growing too weak to stand. He was light headed and thought it best if he sat down for a moment. The word still seemed a little distorted as he heard Trailock speaking. He realized too late that he was drifting asleep. The next thing he realized was Kitiara kneeling beside him, hitting him lightly to wake him up. Vaalic's eyes focused on Kit, and he could see she was concerned. Looking down he could see that his wounds had been wrapped as best they could with strips of cloth. Blood was showing through them and they were still painful, but the bleeding was slowed and nearly stopped.
"You're going to be alright. There was little I could do for your wounds besides stop the bleeding. You lost a lot of blood but I did what I could. You should take it easy and let your wounds heal."
"Thank you..."
He wanted to say more, but his head was foggy and he couldn't think of anything. Kitiara seemed happy enough with his brief thanks as she rose to her feet. Vaalic slowly got to his feet, trying not to worsen his condition. The three new dragons were now dead. Vaalic could see one of their bodies laying a fair ways away were a building once stood and the other two were nowhere in sight. They all walked out into the open as Nuanni landed, with Sil close behind and Trailock coming soon after. Vaalic listened to what they said as Kala came up from behind them. They talked about another land, the Chaosis Continent. Vaalic had never heard of it, but it was no matter. All he wanted right now was to see Angel and tell her it was over, at least for now. The others only spoke for a short time before they decided to move somewhere safer than the street. Sartek and Thoryn were still somewhere around here, though Vaalic believed they would be leaving this island with haste. The rest of the day was short as Vaalic found the fist opportunity he could to sleep. He stayed awake long enough to talk with Angel about what happened, and he knew that this had scarred her, as she refused to talk about what happened.
The next day they discovered the ship to be missing and with it their only way home. They stayed almost a week on the island. Vaalic spent most of his time resting, and letting his body heal itself. Kala had been a generous host. Vaalic was feeling better, and though not fully healed he felt well enough to walk around normally. He couldn't stand just sitting around and decided to go for a morning walk. He wandered until he reached the end of the island. If anything the view was worth the walk, but it reminded him just how trapped they were. A sparse forest covered the area, and Vaalic didn't notice anything out of place until it was too late. A flash of steel came seeming out of nowhere as he felt a blade dig deep into his thigh. Blood began running down his leg as the pain became too much to put his weight on. He fell to one knee and looked up to see Sartek standing in front of him. He had not noticed Sartek or Thoryn hiding when he approached and felt like a fool to have let his guard down so easily.
"Well, at least we get to kill one of you! "
Sartek held his sword high ready to strike as Vaalic was already drawing his weapon. With his left hand Vaalic reached for a dagger in his boot, but it looked as if he wouldn't have the chance to use either dagger or sword. As Sartek moved to strike Jake stepped in the way, pushing Sartek's sword away, and grabbing Vaalic. It was hard to tell who was more surprised to see him, Sartek or Vaalic, but as it was Jake had arrived with no time to spare. Vaalic tried to get to his feet, but the wound in his leg prevented him from putting his weight on it. Before he knew what happened Thoryn invoked some sort of magic that allowed her and Sartek to escape. Jake and Trailock put their weapons away once they were sure their enemies had escaped, but Vaalic kept his out. Jake and Trailock both walked up to him and helped him to his feet.
"Sartek came up from behind me. I didn't see him coming. Thank the gods that you two arrived when you did."
Trailock looked down at Vaalic wounded leg, but said nothing. He made a crude bandage, enough to slow the bleeding, then he put his arm around Vaalic's shoulder and helped him walk back to the town, where Kitiara had yet another wound of his to bandage.

[Vindao_Nuanni]

They had spent almost a week here since Vindao and Nuanni had turned their backs on their order. It was hard for both of them to stay, but they knew that they no longer had any choice. If they returned now they would be executed without a trial. It was not the though of execution that kept them here, it was the though of losing each other. Neither spoke of this, as they never needed to. It was an unspoken bond that both clearly understood. During the week that they spent here they rested well. They had always been reclusive, as they only needed each other for company. Nothing would have changed until Trailock began to visit them. Vindao was still cautious about him, as he was about everyone. Through the week they spent more time together, and both Vindao and Nuanni would call him a friend. The Silver made several trips out to try and find a ship, but with no success. Vindao and Nuanni also went on a few trips, but there was never anything to find. The nearest land was too far for even a dragon to fly, and it seemed as though they would be staying here for a considerable amount of time. Several more days passed and Vindao decided they would go out again. They left in the morning and flew over the open sea for hours. It was hard to tell how long they were out, but it was nearly noon. It wouldn’t be much longer before they would turn around and head back. Nuanni was the one to spot it, too far in the distance for Vindao to see clearly she spotted something white on the horizon. As they drew closer the white mark on the horizon proved to be the sails of a ship. It was a three mast merchant ship that looked a little battered but seaworthy. Nuanni flew above them, high enough so that she did not cause alarm, and they watched.
"These sailors will not be pleased to see us."
"If we ever want to leave that island we will need a ship, and this one will do."
Nuanni began to descend and as they drew closer it was obvious that the merchant vessel and its crew were preparing to defend themselves. Several sailors had found bows and were letting lose their arrows. Nuanni was higher than the arrows would reach, but she stopped herself from going any closer. The arrows would do little, if anything to her, but Vindao would not be so lucky. Readying herself, Nuanni prepared to use her devastating breath weapon.
"We need the ship intact!"
With little time to react, she changed her aim and sent the blast away from the hull of the ship. It missed her target and destroyed one of the masts instead. The ship was in chaos as many of the men began to panic. The archers continued to release arrows at the dragon, but they were not prepared for this and soon ran out of arrows. Nuanni closed in on the ship, sending the entire crew into panic. This was what she had intended and it worked perfectly.
"I will speak with them. Take me to the crow's nest, but watch them closely. If things go badly destroy the ship. I will stay in the water until you come for me."
"I do not approve. They will try and kill you."
"Not when their lives are at stake as well, but it is possible that they will act foolishly, and then they will answer to you."
Nuanni still did not agree, but the threat of a dragon was enough to force most into submission. She glided down close to the crow's nest, and slowed her speed as Vindao unhooked himself from the dragon harness. When he was ready he jumped from her back and landed in the small platform that made the crow's nest. Once he was aboard Nuanni circled around and very slowly circled the ship, watching the movement of every sailor. Vindao stood up and looked down at the men below him. They were all armed and desperate. He was not stupid enough to go down to them, so instead called to them from were he stood.
"Surrender your ship to me and no harm will come to you. I need your ship to transport several people and once that is done we may go our separate ways."

"He lies! He will kill us if we help him or not! I say take his head!"

Vindao could hear the shouts of agreement from most of the crew. Then another voice came from the deck.
"Silence! Do you think you could kill him before his pet dragon brings this ship down from under us! I will speak with him.
I am Captain Nicholas Acana, and you have boarded my ship."
"Captain. Will you accept my terms? Your lives for the use of your ship?"
There was a long pause and Vindao could see the Captain speaking with his officers, but he could not hear what was being said. Finally a reply came.
"It seems we have no choice."
"You have made the right choice Captain."

[SilverBahamut]

Trailock and myself were sitting outside of the Terra palace. His motives for me joining him were not clear at first. But once we were out here, they became as clear as glass. He wanted another to worry with him. I was laying down on the marble steps reflecting in the sun. He was at my feet paceing a grove in the stone. "She should have been back by now." He said continueing his path. "You know you should worry about them." I said closeing my eyes for a brief moment. When I opened them, his face appeared learing over me. "Trailock, you may be new to this world but you are too obsessed about her. You will find yourself alone and disliked if you keep this up. Your acting as if you were lovers but the truth is you are only friends. Her loyalties are still to her friend Vindao." I finished, closeing my eyes again. I heared what sounded like anger in him. He was breathing heavily, and stomping the ground he was paceing. "Trailock, just play it cool with her untill we reach the mainland. Once we are there, hopefully you can ask around for some pointers. You are afterall only thirty-two days into your new life. Don't try to grow up too fast." I said opening my eyes again. His face turned from anger to understanding in a couple of seconds. He layed down beside me and sighed. "Will we ever get off this island?" He asked. I didn't answer because I don't even know the answer to that. There was no boat in hundreds of miles, and the Terra sages were ages away from learning how to teleport anyone. Both myself and Trailock sat up at the same time. We obviously both heared the frantic running steps. Vindao was chargeing straight for us. Once he arrived, he stopped dead in his tracks. "We have captured a boat. Get everyone together! We are leaveing this damn place now!" He ordered us. In an instant, Trailock and myself were running into the palace. Mostly everyone was together. Except for Vaalic and Angel. They were out on the island, enjoying what peace they had. Personally, I was hopeing to reach home via the teleportation. Traveling by sea was no place for a new born child. Speaking of which, there child. It was a healthy male. But, there child was different. For two human parents to give birth to a white haired, pointy eared child was rather odd. "Dravven, everyone is ready except for Vaalic and Angel." Trailock said coming up behind me. I gave a quick nod and started out into the city.

I found the two in one of the outer forests of the island. They seemed so peacefull there. But we had to leave. I interupted them and we all joined the rest at the edge. Below we could see Nuanni flying over a ship. I turned into the beast and flew everyone down. This ships crew were not so pleased that we had forced them to sail with us to the Faith Continant. But it was needed I suppose. Two of our group had to stay awake at a time during the long trip. But was for our safty on the travel home. Who knew what would become of us if all were to fall asleep. The day one of the ships crew yelled out "Land-Ho!", was one of the most joyous occasions ever, and frankly, the crowd that was there was puzzleing. There was roughly over fifty people standing at the docks chearing for us. At the head of the group, Somber, Seth, Aramis and Killean were there. Killean, he must have let them know we were going to be back today. Unfortunatly, Killean had disappeared when everyone set foot on the ground.

That night everyone was invited to the palace of Free Port. All those of the destroyed Faith Hills, and those of Free Port were attending. It was a grand party, but I did not seem to enjoy myself. Although Sombers obvious attempts to re-intergrate myself into the party on several occasions, I just sat around watching the events. Vaalic, Angel, Somber, Aramis and Seth were all talking to the lord of Free Port. Jake and Kitiara were sitting alone at one of the tables. But I could not find Trailock, Nuanni or Vindao. They seemed to have disappeared after we left the boat. I was about to go out and search for them when Somber grabbed my arm, and led me to one of the set tables. The lord stood and gave a rather boring speach about what we had done over on Terra. After he was through, Vaalic stood and proposed a toast. "I propose a toast to the freedom of this world, and to our fallen comrades." Vaalic was interupted by the lord. "Which, just to remind everyone, we will be holding a ceremony tomorrow for the fallen friends of Vaalic." He added. Everyone drank from there cups and began to fiest. That sight of everyone else made me loose my appitite. I stood up and walked out of the palace. I found myself walking alone at the docks. I knew the people in that room; other then that of my friends, did not mean to be so rude. They did not afterall know those who had died in our mission. But just the sight of there incompitance made me ill.

Morning had finally come and I was rushed into a suit of flashy armor and sent to Free Ports central street. In the middle of this busy intersection, was a giant cloth tarp blocking the view of somthing underneith. There was a brief ceremony introducing our group who had traveled to Terra. A couple of the members gave a speach and finally the tarp was removed. A giant fountain was underneith, surrounding it was statues of ourselves. This seemed rather pointless. Personally I was not looking forward to any kind of reward. Just peace.

[Jake]

The battle was over and we had returned to our old lands. Great parties of people andfriends had gathered on our return. None of them I really knew, the young Seth was still with Somber. It was time he left, he's old enough to fend for himself. But these thing soon left my mind after day light left the sky. Inivite to a grand party in honor of what has happened and our victoy.

I listened to the speechs and all the stories that were being told. Every one knew each other in some way and form. But here I am, only joined by battle. I really did not know these people at all. It was strange, this feeling of want? I wanted to know them, I was happy here with these people.

They fought for something greater then themselves. They lost every thing and gained only what is needed. The city of Faith was destroyed so long ago know so it seems, we came so far so quickly. Finding weakness and strength in our selves we did not know we had. I morned my love's death for so long, feeling empty, and I still feel sad. But I non longer feel empty. I feel glad, happy infact.

I found a table rested my still sore body, I had not completely healed from these events. A figure suddenl;y sat down beside me across the table. Kitira, my feelings for her I knew were strong. And where they might lead I am not sure. But I am not sure I really want to know, why spoil the surprise I guess. Play it by ear.

I sat back in the chair and watched the people dance and laugh and talk. Watching glasses hit together and cheers between comrades. These are my comrades, my friends. And in a uncontrolable motion I smiled and continued to smile for the rest of the night.

[Vaalic]

Vaalic was injured, but he was well cared for. His wounds were well bandaged and slowly healing. When news reached him of his wife giving birth he was stunned for a moment. She had told him their child was lost, but this was proving to be false. He rushed to the building where she was being kept, but was refused entrance. He waited outside the door, hearing his wife cry out in pain. He wanted to be there to comfort her, but he knew that his place was not in there. He waited outside impatiently, pacing back and forth until Dravven arrived.
"I came as soon as I heard."
"She's been in there for several hours already, or so I was told. I just arrived myself."
"Do you mind company while you wait?"
"Not at all. I..." Another cry of pain interrupted his speaking, and he briefly paused. "I'm glad your here."
Dravven and Vaalic waited outside the building for what seemed like days, though it was only several hours. Vaalic and Dravven had long since taken a seat against the stone wall when finally, just before the sun crept behind the tree line, the crying of a baby was heard. Both men got to their feet, and looked at each other. His excitement returned. He would soon see his child. He was hoping for a boy, but he would be happy with whatever the gods have blessed him with. Finally the door opened, and an elderly woman came out. She looked at Vaalic with a dark face, devoid of emotion. His first thought was that something had happened to Angel. He could still hear the baby, but the cries from his wife had stopped.
"My wife?"
"She is recovering and the newborn is well."
Vaalic let out a brief laugh, as his fears escaped him though the woman's dark expression remained.
"Can I see them?"
"You may, but prepare yourself."
Again Vaalic began to feel uneasy, but he smiled and moved past the woman into the building. The room was dimly lit, making it fairly difficult to see. Angel lay on a blood soaked bed, weak and tired. He went to her side and held her hand. He could see that she was still in pain as tears continued to run down her cheek. He didn't know why, but she wouldn't look at him. Letting go of her hand, Vaalic took a few steps across the small room to where another, younger woman held the baby covered in a blanket. As Vaalic approached the woman took a step closer to him and gently handed him the baby. She didn't say a word, as she took a step back. Vaalic looked down at the baby and suddenly grew chill. It was a boy, but one with white hair and the ears to mark him part Elven. Vaalic couldn't explain what he felt in that moment. Rage, betrayal, hatred, helplessness. He knew that this child was not his. It could not be. There was only one other that could be responsible, and that thought made him sick. Seeing his reaction the young woman took a step forward and gently took the child from Vaalic's hands. He let it go willingly. He felt a hatred for the child, but at the same time he couldn't blame it. It was not the child he hated, but its father. Suddenly the air in the room seemed thicker, harder to breath. Vaalic walked out of the building, into the street. Dravven was standing there waiting for him. Dravven could tell something was wrong, but he kept silent. Vaalic began to breath in the air, as he tried to calm himself down. He wished ShadowRune was here in front of him now, but he knew he had already served his revenge. Dravven waited silently for Vaalic to calm down but it took him longer than he expected. Questions flooded Vaalic's mind, as he tried to make sense of it all. He could see Dravven's questioning look, but he was thankful his friend had never spoken the question he knew he would have to answer. Taking a deep breath Vaalic walked back into the room and back to Angel's side.
" Tell me what happened."
Once she could compose herself she told him everything that had happened.

Vaalic walked out of the room nearly an hour later, calm, but as pale as a ghost. The sun was gone from the sky and the night had set in. Dravven had left at the request of the elderly woman and Vaalic began to walk around the town. He couldn't understand how this could have happened. From what Angel had told him this had happened months ago, but not nearly long enough for a baby to be born. Vaalic walked slowly around the town, without a destination as he was trying to sort this out in his mind, but it wasn't coming easily. As he walked he was able to come to terms with what happened. It took him several hours of wandering to finally come up with a way the child could have been born so quickly. The reactor was a mystery to him, besides that it held immense power. If the reactor were to have been leaking some of its power, it could have affected the newborn child and accelerated its growth. If that was the case, he was glad it was buried; gone forever.

It took several days before Angel was well enough to walk. The labor was a difficult one, but without complication. Angel was tired of staying indoors and wanted very much to be outside. Once she was well enough, they left the child in the care of the elderly woman for a few hours as they took a peaceful walk in the forest. Vaalic had brought his sword as a precaution, and he was glad he had no need of it. They walked through the forest until they reached the far end of the island, and began heading back. Along their way Dravven came running up. He quickly told them how a ship had arrived and that it was time to leave. Vaalic wasn't about to rush Angel, and so they continued walking at their normal, slow pace. When they finally arrived, everyone was ready to leave. They said a brief farewell and took their new son with them down to the ship. Their reception on the ship was unsettling. It was several moments later that Dravven mentioned that the ship was taken by force, not free will. Once the ship was set out, Vaalic made a point to see the Captain and thank him for taking them aboard. The Captain gave the clear indication that they were not welcome here. Vaalic took the first shift of guard duty that night.

Angel took being at sea very well. She only showed slight signs of seasickness, but the child would not stop crying. It was a long journey home and once they finally arrived it was a beautiful sight. A large crowd had arrived to greet them, and Vaalic was able to meet the others that were left behind. He was overjoyed to see them again, but he was also tired. A grand party was prepared in honor of their victory, but Vaalic almost didn't go. He was happy to see his home again, but not everyone that set out had come back. He knew there was nothing he could have done to save him, but he still felt guilty over the death of Cymrych. In the end he decided to show, if only to talk with Somber and Seth.

Vaalic walked around, speaking to people he recognized, as well as some he had never met. He didn't feel much like socializing, but he thought it might improve his spirits. He found Somber, and gave her a hug. They talked for a while, as Vaalic told her what had happened. Angel had arrived late to the party, and didn't plan to stay long, but she didn't want to miss it all. She came to Vaalic's side, just as Seth approached them. They began to talk, trying to be heard above the others in attendance. They only spoke for a few moments before Somber introduced them to Lord Petrich, the governor of Freeport. He was an elderly man, with long white hair that stood no more than four feet tall. He asked to hear the story of what had happened, and Vaalic gave him a brief summary of everything that went on. He still found it difficult to talk about, but continued nonetheless. The lord stood and gave a speech, repeating everything Vaalic had just told him, but for whatever reason added a few things that he was not told. Once he was through Vaalic was asked to give a toast. All eyes fell on him, and he paused. He wasn't expecting this, but he dealt with it quickly. He said the first thing that came to mind.
" I propose a toast to the freedom of this world, and to our fallen comrades. "
He was interrupted by the lord, and was glad to have a way to cut the speech short.
"Which, just to remind everyone, we will be holding a ceremony tomorrow for the fallen friends of Vaalic."
Vaalic didn't like the way he had said that. They were more than just his friends who had fallen. They were heroes, and without them other would have died. Everyone drank and began to feast. Vaalic politely excused himself and walked out of the room. He knew that those who had died deserved more, but he didn't know what he could do for them. Angel had left during the Lord's speech, and Vaalic now stood outside, alone. After a few minutes Somber came out after him and convinced him to come back inside. The party lasted late into the night, and Vaalic spent most of it talking with Lord Petrich and Somber. He finally fell asleep just before morning and after only a couple hours of sleep he was woken up. His head hurt and he wanted to go back to sleep, but he wasn't aloud. Several people had entered his room and were giving him cloths to wear to a ceremony and telling him what was planned. Everything came so sudden, and Vaalic got ready and was then taken to Free Port's central street. They had a brief ceremony, and Vaalic was asked to say a few words. His speech was short, and not what anyone expected. Instead of praising their victory he asked the people to remember the lost. He told them who had not come back, and how they had fallen. He was not the only one to speak. Trailock also said a few words before a veil was removed. A giant fountain was underneath; surrounding it were statues honoring the ones that brought an end to the Dark Lord. The fountain seemed like a bit much, but Vaalic knew it was for the people, not them. They needed something to look at and remind them that they were protected and safe.