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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 29, 2018 14:02:42 GMT -5
War. An inevitable thing, much as the tide of the oceans rise and fall. War would come, and war would go. Nearly 100 years ago a war to end it all came to a screeching halt. The Divine, a creature so rare that humans feared the power that the creature possessed. The Divine are a race that blend in well with the humans, to an untrained eye one would never notice...
They were hunted to extinction. The Divine were the only creature capable of forming a bond with dragons. The godly power of the dragons at their fingertips, the beasts were their companions, one dragon per Divine. No matter which heart stops the other shall follow swiftly, that was the key. To kill the Divine, the dragon would die soon after. The magical essence that held them together so well was the very thing that destroyed them. The war was raving, the Divine fled from city to city trying to escape. Others stood their ground and fought, only to fall to the massive army of the Shadow Sect, a troop of mages that were commanded by the kings of the region. Many believed in killing the Divine, for fear of what they could do if they ever retaliated. Though, the king of Askabar did not follow through with this order to kill, he did not provide warriors for the cause. Only he and a few other kings felt that it was a grave mistake to kill such incredible creatures...
Though, a handful of kings was not enough to stop the horrible tragedy...some Divine were taken and experimented upon, the humans fought the harness their power...only to torture the poor souls until their final breaths...
**
Rain pelted down as lightning scattered across the sky to be followed by the deafening clap of thunder. A woman rushed through the cobblestone streets of Askabar with a cloak pulled up over her head. She held a bundle in her arms as she sprinted. She glanced over her shoulder a few men rushed after her. She skidded around a corner and dipped down a flight of stairs rushing into the shadows of a bar. She moved through the crowd quickly, her eyes glancing around from beneath the cloak, she held beautiful hazel eyes that were green with golden flecks within the iris. She slipped out the back door and took of in a sprint again she ran until she reached the gates of the castle.
“Halt!” One of the guards called, he held his hand forward.
“Please.” The woman whimpered, a small cry came from the bundle of cloth in her arms. “Please I must speak with King Leo....it is urgent, please.”
The knight looked to her a moment. “Let her in, the king would be most displeased if you turned this woman away.” A man with a red cape stepped from the guard house, the captain of the guard. “He’s told me himself if she ever comes to allow her in. Come on.” He nodded and led her onto the castle grounds.
The woman glanced over her shoulder as the gate shut behind her. The men were no where to be seen. She let out a sigh of relief as she walked up the stone stairs into the beautiful castle. She lowered her hood to reveal tasseled brown hair that fell below her mid back. “Thank you.” She spoke as she looked to the captain.
He offered a warm smile, “I am following orders. You look to be in trouble.” He nodded and led her into the throne room. “I couldn’t turn a woman that is in danger away, my first duty is to the king and queen, but next it is to our citizens.” He paused and looked to her a long moment. He glanced to the bundled up blanket in her arms that she held closely to her body. “One moment, I will get King Leo.”
The woman offered a nod. “Thank you, Captain.” She stood quietly as he stepped from the room. It was moments later that the king himself stepped into the room. He had a full dark brown beard that was neatly kept, his eyes a lovely chestnut color. His crown gleamed upon his head. “My king.” The woman bowed her head, another cry came from the bundle in her arms.
“What has happened?” The king stepped forward, his face washed with worry.
“It isn’t safe for me in the city anymore, it isn’t safe for her...” She moved the blanket to reveal an infant with beautiful blue eyes. The baby reached up toward the king. “I...I can’t keep her safe...” The woman whispered. “She must be put into hiding, like all of us. If she is kept safe she will survive.”
The king looked to the young woman before him a long moment. “You want me to keep her?” He questioned his eyes widened slightly.
“I’ve no one else to trust with my daughter’s life...” She whispered. “She’ll be safe with your protection, your father kept me safe...I...”
The king reached forward and gently took the baby into his arms. The child reached up and touched his full beard. “Curious one.” He let out a soft chuckle. He looked to the woman then. “Where will you run to that is safe?”
The woman bit her lip slightly. “That I cannot tell even you, my king. My kind would not remain safe if I did, I am afraid.”
The king looked back to the child and gave a nod. “I owe you.” He gave a gentle smile. “For what you’ve done for us, the protection you’ve offered has saved many of my men, Ira.”
The woman bowed her head. “Thank you, my king.” She took in a breath. She bit her lip slightly, her eyes tearing up. “I promise, when it is safe I will come back for you.” She brushed the short brown hair of the baby and kissed her forehead. “I promise your father and I will come for you, Eliza.” She then looked to the king whom silently nodded to her before she rushed from the throne room.
**
“Eliza.” The king stood, his beard now grey, his face older and wiser. He had a warm smile upon his lips. They stood in a ball room, many danced to the music, others drank and ate cheerfully.
Eliza stood, her eyes just as beautiful as her mother’s, though her eyes were blue with golden flakes. She wore gorgeous armor that held beautiful inscriptions. A red cape came from her right shoulder, a signal that she was the captain of the royal guard. “My king.” She bowed as she approached the man.
King Leo smiled as he looked out over the crowd. “It’s a joyous occasion, won’t you enjoy yourself?” He chuckled.
“Ah yes, the marriage of Princess Liane.” She nodded her head. “I do believe you chose the perfect prince for her, my king, she meshes with him well, and the offer upon the table would be difficult to refuse.” She smiled to him as her eyes fell upon the princess in the center of the room as she danced in a beautiful red dress with the handsome prince from Tallinn.
The king chuckled and shook his head. “You should take the night off, Eliza, have a drink, enjoy yourself.” He smiled to her.
Eliza shook her head. “No can do, my king. Protecting you is a full-time job.” She chuckled as her eyes looked over the crowd once again. “Besides, this is where I belong, I do not belong on the dance floor.” She shook her head then. Eliza looked over the smiles of the crowd. Her eyes scanning for any sign of danger. She watched as the prince and princess made their way up toward them. She gasped slightly as she felt a sharp pinch in her neck. Eliza reached up to pull a feathery dart from her neck.
“Captain?” The princess asked as she stepped forward.
The words sounded underwater to Eliza. Her chest felt heavy. She looked up, her vision blurred. “Princess...K-King Leo...” She held the dart up as she fought to breathe.
“Eliza!” King Leo rushed forward she could feel him grip onto her as she lost her balance.
Suddenly everything faded away...Eliza could hear screaming...shouting...then nothing...
Her eyes were heavy as they fluttered open, she could feel something wet upon her face. She reached up and brushed it away, she looked to her hands, blood. Blood was splattered across the front of her armor. She took in a shaken breath as her eyes fell upon the next thing, the king before her, his throat slit blood poured down the front of his attire. Eliza gasped and scattered back, her eyes wide, as her eyes fell upon the hilt of her dagger sticking from the chest of the prince.
“Eliza!!” The angry voice broke the cloud of confusion.
Eliza’s eyes lifted to her Lieutenant Theodore, his eyes were angry, though his face held confusion. “Theo...” She breathed as she took a shaken step back, she looked down to the blood on her chest. “Theo I...”
“Where is the princess?! What have you done?!” A voice shouted, “Seize her!!” It was the king’s brother Victor, he stepped across the ballroom toward her, his eyes devilish.
Eliza gasped for air. She stared to Theodore. “Theo, I didn’t...” She stepped back, she could hear the sounds of others rushing toward her.
Theodore looked to her, “You are under arrest, Eliza Ashmore, for the murder of King Leo and Prince Derek of Tallinn.”
Eliza shook her head. “No...I...” She stumbled back into the arms of a guard whom slapped shackles over her wrists. She pulled against them. “No....Theo please...please I didn’t do this.” Tears began to stream down her cheeks. “Theo!” She screamed as she was dragged roughly away. Eliza was shoved roughly through the halls of the castle. Her armor clanked as she took steps forward. “I...” Her breaths shook. She fought to remember. She remembered the feeling of the dart in her fingertips...then...everything was blank...what happened...?
Eliza was shoved forward into the cold concrete, her face slammed against the wall and her nose began to gush blood. She whimpered as she felt the knight rip her sword from her hip...the sword the king had given to her when she became the captain of the guard. It felt like years as she sat in the cell. Her mind raced. She couldn’t put anything together. The princess was gone? Where....? How did this happen? Night turned to day, and day to night. The guard would bring her bread and a cup of water. It had been a week by her guess. No one had spoken to her...what was going on? Had they found the culprit? No...she would have been released...her body trembled weakly as she tried to crack the code of the mystery...
Eliza looked up then as footsteps approached the cell, it wasn’t time for her bread, she had that down to the second, she knew exactly when they would come now. “Eliza.” Theodore spoke, his voice was hushed. The cell door opened. He held a lantern in his hand. “Come.” He hoisted her up and pushed her from the cell and down the hall. He shoved her into a room. Eliza’s heart skipped as she stared to the chair in the center of the room, a torture chamber...one she’d seen used many times to get information from a subject.
“Theo...please...you have to believe me...” She breathed.
Theo pushed her forward, he sat her in the chair and began removing plates of her armor until she was down to her black pants and tunic. He took in a deep breath. “Eliza...” His jaw tightened slightly. “You, need to scream.” He spoke.
“Wh-what...?” Eliza stammered.
Theodore took in a breath, he lifted a hammer from the table. “Scream.” He slammed the hammer down on the chair next to her arm. It clicked then. Eliza stared to Theodore, she’d flinched as he brought the hammer down toward her. She screamed though her eyes stared to him. Confusion was written all over her face. After a few more swings he set the hammer down. He leaned down, his face just inches from hers. “Eliza, I don’t think you did this...” He spoke, his voice trembled slightly. “Victor has seized control of the castle, he has taken reign, the entire city...saw you...the blood...I...” His hands gripped over hers. He took in a shaken breath, he slowly unlocked the shackles that held her to the chair. “I need you to run, Eliza.” He stared into her eyes.
“Theo...” Eliza stared to him. “I didn’t...I...”
Theodore watched her a moment, “I trust you, something doesn’t feel right, you’ve no reason to murder Leo.” He stood and took a step back. “I need you to hit me, Eliza. Don’t hold back, hit me hard and run. Don’t stop, just run. I will have to call the guard out on you...you can’t look back...don’t let me catch you...” He pushed his dagger into her hand. “Victor has set to have you hung in the gallows this evening...” He shook his head. “I...I can’t...” He swallowed.
Eliza stood slowly, she clasped the dagger to her hip. “Theo...” She stared to him, she pulled him into a tight embrace and held him for a moment. “Thank you.” She whispered. She then took a step back, she searched his eyes as he stared back to her, he was terrified. If Victor found out about him allowing her to flee...it wouldn’t end well.
Eliza took in a breath, she balled her hand into a fist and swung hard with a hook. She clocked him in the jaw and grabbed him with her other hand, her fingers wrapped into his short hair as she bought her knee into his chest. Theodore stumbled back and fell against the wall. “Shit...” He groaned. “G-Go...” He held his hand to his chest.
Eliza watched him a moment before she turned and rushed from the room. Eliza shoved a knight into the wall knocking him out easily. She grit her teeth, she hated to hurt her own people like this. She sprinted down the hall and wound through the castle. Soon enough she heard the clanking of armor. Eliza rushed from the castle and into the gardens. She slipped through the hedges, she knew the castle grounds like the back of her hand.
“Stop her!”
“Murderer!”
Eliza didn’t look back. She rushed to a gate and scaled over the fence. She stumbled slightly her body ached. “Come on.” She groaned as she sprinted off toward the forest. Eliza flinched as an arrow pierced into the tree next to her. She zig zagged through the forest until she felt an arrow pierce into her thigh. She stumbled and let out a cry as she looked down. “Damnit...” She whimpered as she limped forward. She grit her teeth as she ran deeper into the forest. Eliza gripped her leg. The shouts of the knights became silent. She made it several miles before she collapsed against the base of an old oak tree. Her hands trembled as she reached down to the arrow. She shut her eyes for a moment and took in a quick breath as she ripped it from her thigh. She let out a muffled whimper as she leaned her back against the tree and slid to the ground. Eliza grit her teeth as her chest heaved. “Where are you princess...?” Her eyes fluttered. She ripped part of her tunic and tied it tightly over her wound. “How...do I...find you...? What do I do...?” She spoke to the silent forest around her. She fought for nearly an hour before she finally gave into the clasp of unconsciousness. Her body was cold, her breathing shallow...
Thunder rumbled in the distance as lightning flickered lighting up the canopy of the forest. A curious fox came from the bushes and nudged Eliza’s hand. Her hand fell limply from her thigh. The creature tilted its head and snuggled against her leg, it cooed softly as it looked up to her though, Eliza was far from consciousness.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 29, 2018 16:09:47 GMT -5
Rey Sunfury
Hails from Genevia
Serves Kingdom Lucius - King Raymond Lucius
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To the rocky east a huge Kingdom rests on a cliff high island, jutting upwards from the sea. In the center a tall sky - scraping castle, pointing towers reaching high, almighty and powerful, a sight that could be see almost to the mountains to the west. There was only one entrance to this city, a single bridge from the bay of clovers to the Kingdom Lucius.
Lucius has been known as the impenetrable Kingdom, and home to some of the most powerful mages. It was a smaller Kingdom, independent from the Circle of Kings, which was a group of Kingdoms that formed a union together. Though, it had been an incredibly long time since Kingdom Lucious was involved in any war, simply for the fact that it’s defenses were far too strong to wage war against. It was easy for the Kingdom to become a turtle on its island about the sea...
The Lucius royal blood was an ancient string, one that had stayed true to the Kingdom, and never faltered. Though in the past there has been its fair share of poor leaders, the current were of great minds.
King Raymond Lucius is known as a very powerful wizard, and scholar - he focused deeply on growing the Mage culture, and starting up new Circles and Schools all across the lands in his name. Many sought to travel to Lucius, training there was for the high end and the smartest of mages.
In the 100 years of war, of which Lucius played little part in - it became a haven for the Divine. If they could make it past the mountains and into the Bay of Clovers they were considered safe... Though the mountain pass had become a well stalked area, hunting the Divine as they came through... The Kingdom did what they could, but refused to waste resources to a war that was not theirs.
Their doors remained open, however, to all those in retreat. However, there were strict rules in the Kingdom. Once you stepped through the gate - it was understood that no one flew under any banner than Lucius’s. Those escaping the war, or other corrupt lands, had to surrender their past and live a new one within his protection.
This was not a hard thing to do for most - he did not force any religion, any opinions or matters upon his people. All that he asked for was peace, and that was exactly the nature of the Kingdom...
Of those who were of the Refugees - was a certain female Mage. Rey Sunfury, now on the King’s Council - previously lived a life of war and blood.
She belonged to the Kingdom of Genevia. Rey had a reputation, an alias - Rey Sunfury, the Manslayer. She was raised as a young child in the art of battle magic - of which she was used as a weapon of mass destruction - murdering thousands that stood in Genevia’s way... Because of her work Genevia is easily the most powerful Kingdom, and fights everyday to become the King of Kings - a never ending war of greed and power.
It was as she stood over the dead dragons and a field of men - her entire body drenched in their blood - she broke down, having lost her soul to war. The sun shone down upon her - the blood crusting over her skin and flaking away, she ran then... Escaping to the mountains in hiding. It was almost an entire month before she was found in a cavern by Lucius scouts, near death - as her heart had gave out on life, she nearly shriveled away then.
Lucius gave her a new opportunity. Genevia placed a bounty upon her head, wishing for her return - and Lucius protected her. Five years have passed since then...
In Lucius’s care she made an oath to herself, and to him, to never kill again. She focused her magic in learning defensive spells - to which became a great asset to the Kingdom. During one stormy year - she mastered her Grand-Shield, a bubble of magic that kept the hurricane from destroying the castle. This art was of her own creation, and she was the only mage about that was the master of it, along with other spells she created.
In the 5 years she grew close to the King, they often studied together - planned together. They opened up new schools, crafted plans and such for the community, helping it grow bigger every day... The place had not seen terror in ages, this world of peace and kindness became a warm spot for her, of which now she would easily give her life for. Redemption. Her soul returned, her heart warmed, the pain and suffering dulled by the ocean sun upon her skin...
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“Rey, it has been two weeks since my son has left for Praiyarith - he should have returned by now, or at least sent word...” King Lucius sat at his desk, a string of books and parchment strolled about. He was studying Praiyarith’s history, and writing up a contract.
Prince Derek Lucius was to marry their Princess and become King in Praiyarith... The two Kingdoms saw eye to eye on much, and to grow Lucius’s influence and schools - he wanted to band the two Kingdoms together. This would open up trade with Praiyarith, which was much stronger and economical than Lucius, and in return they would offer mages and training...
Not to mention, the Prince and Princess had hit it off strong, they were almost made for each other. Seeing his son happy - was one of the better reasons of this binding....
“Hmm...” Rey was standing in his office, he had summoned her there. She had long black raven like hair, which had a slight wave to it. Her clothing consisted of a black tunic with a short jacket over it with long sleeves. About her shoulders were feathery metallic shoulder pads, which her gauntlets matched. Two belts around her waist held her flowing red side skirt, which acted more like a partial cape than anything. Short black shorts came mid thigh, and equally feathery like metallic boots came almost to meet her shorts. She had a sort of battle mage like armor, rather than long flowing scholarly robes.
In her past she looked completely different, this new identity was now her own. Previously she had ghost white long hair, red eyes, with a devastating attire to match - black robes, with white and silver accents, a long jutting cape, spiking pauldrons... Upon a glance she once looked evil as can be. Now instead she took the look of a guardian mage, which was her new role...
“I wonder what the matter could be.... Should I go see?” She questioned to him, thinking out loud, her glowing golden hues looked to him curiously.
The old wizard stroked his long beard briefly and sighed. “Are you willing to take that risk? You have not left this walls since you arrived...” He brought his brows together.
“If I am to be his Warden, then I must eventually leave for Praiyarith, am I not? This is inevitable, and I wish to guide him as best as I can when he becomes King...” She crossed her arms briefly.
The King stood and then nodded. “Very well, you should be off - the portals link as far as the Gate of Keyov, it should only be a few hours venture to the Kingdom from there...” He spoke and nodded. “Please send an update if you do not plan to return immediately, otherwise I expect you back by the end of the week...”
“Yes, my King” she bowed her head deeply and made her way from his castle. She climb down the long wide stairs to the base of the city, which was bustling with activity. Manly waved and greeted her - her name spilling from her lips - but with joy and happiness, unlike her previous which was of hatred and anger.
She made her way to one of the towers, at the top was a archway, it shimmered with a glowing portal. It lead to the beginning of the mountain pass that cut through the mountains, leading to the Bay of Clovers. This was easily cutting 3 days of travel from her.
She gripped her bag, which she packed moments before, her enchanted staff in her hand, her sword on her back...she slipped through the portal. Rey phased into the world before her, which was rolling hills of beautiful wild flowers.
She held a blowing blue stone in her hand - she glanced to it and squeezed it. A blue essence float in the air, like water mixing with oil - suddenly a bit of earth before her began to rumble. A horse of complete rock formed from the ground, cracks between each rock glowed with a beautiful blue color. From its ‘spine’ was a main of blue magic that flowed almost like fire.
She climbed onto the steeds back and gripped the reigns and slapped them forward. “Oye!” She called out to him. His earthen hooves clattered to the ground in a beautiful rhythm, leaving a small trail of blue fire like essence, that faded moments before the next gallop.
She traveled for a while until she came upon a thick forest, which sort of surrounded the Kingdom. She rode through... the great thing of her magical steed was that it never got tired, fatigue, hunger, pain - it was not a thing to her steed. This was a horse that she had had for years, a relic - The Hearthstone, summoning the Hearthsteed, belong once to a humble King of Trestle, of which she murdered him and the entire Kingdom when she was only 16. It was then after her first mission - her skin had turned pale, her eyes red - of blood, and her soul was lost, as Genevia wanted it to be.
Rey climbed from her steed to take a small break. She paced the forest slightly, eyes glancing to the beautiful trees and such. It had been a while since she had left that castle, these sights were different to her now. Her eyes were full of life - she could appreciate nature for once...
She turned her head suddenly as she heard a rustling. She pulled her sword and glanced about. Though... both sides of this sword was dulled - it was meant for defense, for hurting but not killing her attacker. If she killed again... she would revert back to her Manslayer self, her soul would be lost once again... she refused to.
Thundering clapped in the distance, she glanced through a break in the canopy to see dark clouds coming over her. Her earthen steed slowly followed her. She heard a small ‘kew’ sound. She glanced down to see a fox sitting - watching her.
Rey kneeled down and held her hand out to the fox. “Hello little one...” She smiled and then raised her brow as the fox flicked its ear and then scampered down the path way. Then it stopped and looked back to her again.
Rey slowly stepped forward “Are you... guiding me?” She questioned softly. She knew the world was flowing with magic, all things enchanted, this could be something... or a trap. She gripped her blade slightly and then continued forward. The fox rounded a large tree, where a woman lay unconscious.
“Oh gods - “ she sheathed her sword and hurried over. She looked to the wound, that was hastily tied up - blood soaking through the cloth. “She is hurt...” She rolled he woman over and glanced to her. The symbol of Kingdom Praiyarith - red cape... The captain of the guard? “You are Eliza - the Prince was telling me of you....” she whispered.
The Prince had visited the Kingdom several times during the courtship, and had mentioned a very proud and talented Captain of the Guard, a woman - Eliza, if she remembered correctly. The King was quite fond of her, and she was one of the best swordsman Derek had ever seen, so he said. She remembered laughing at him then - was he crushing on Eliza, or the Princess? She teased me, but he snapped back at her, which made her laugh more then...
Her eyes focused then on her. “Why are you hurt? And not... what... has happened?” She grit her teeth and then she lifted the woman, though she wasn’t terribly strong. She swiftly placed Eliza on the back of her steed. “Come - “ she rushed off then, her steed following.
Rain began to fall, heavy droplets landing downward through the canopy. She held her hand up and a white wisp suddenly formed. “Help me - a safety” she called out to it. The white orb suddenly shot forward, as if it knew the lands, some kind of magic fairy at her beck and call.
They made their way, until they came upon a small cottage home. She knocked on the door - to which there was a rustling. A man opened the door and raised a brow. “Can... I help you?” He questioned.
He was a blacksmith, he had a whole shed for his work - he lived a mile out from the castle, so his work did not pollute the city with noise...”
“Hello, I am Rey - I was headed to Praiyarith and I came across a wounded woman... I was hoping to seek refuge here until the storm dies out...” Rey held the red cloak behind her back, she had taken it off Eliza. For whatever reason Eliza was out here - it was clearly not good, she did not want to spook this man.
“Uh... yes. Okay, but don’t bring any trouble... You can stay in the shed, theres a cot in the loft..” He nodded and waved.
“Thank you sir - “ Rey pulled out a gold coin and placed it in his palm.
The blacksmith looked down and then nodded. “Go on” he slipped the coin away.
Rey led her horse to the large barn like shed, it opened up to reveal a large work bench. His furnace was cool, tools, weapons, armor - all strung out along tables, up on the wall.
She lowered the captain to the floor. Just as she did rain began to pour heavily. Rey held her stone up and the horse suddenly crumbled into huge rocks, then it broke down into pebbles, and eventually dust.
“What happened to you?” She questioned and knelt down. She pulled her bag out and opened it - though it appeared it be empty. She reached in and whispered a few words. Pulling from the satchel was a several medical supplies. She pulled the cloth back and began to clean the wound. She poured water over it from a pouch, powdered herbs - she rubbed it into the wound to keep infection away, and then she carefully wrapped it.
“Looks like you lost a bit of blood...” She whispered out loud... she glanced up suddenly when she heard shouting.
“We have to find her!” A soldier shouted over the rain. They approached the barn and pulled the doors open.
Rey held her hand upward - suddenly Rey and Eliza were invisible to the soldier’s eyes. The men stepped inside, glancing around. “No tracks...”
Rey glanced to what would have been their tracks - had been covered by dust, her horse’s remains. She bit her lip as they slowly walked around. They were invisible, but the soldiers could bump into them...
“We are wasting time, she probably went to the port! It’s not far, lets go” the men ushered out swiftly and the doors closed behind them.
Moments later the blacksmith entered. Rey had lowered the cloaking when he appeared. His eyes grew wide as he watched them suddenly appeared.
“I am a mage, sir blacksmith... Do not be alarmed. I will not hurt you...” She bowed her head.
“Were they searching for her?” The blacksmith questioned.
“I think so... I do not know this woman, I found her. I cannot say what has happened, but I ask that you allow us safety, it would be unfair to her, plus... we do not know the entire story...” Rey looked up to him with pleading eyes.
“Not to worry, Rey - I wish to not be apart of any of this... Once she is awake, I expect you to leave... did they see you?” He questioned.
“No..” Rey nodded.
“Very well.. here” he lifted a small bag. “I do not have much to offer, Bread and apples, if you are hungry...”
“Thank you sir” Rey stood and accepted the bag, bowing her head to him. The blacksmith turned then and left, a grunt in his voice as he did so.
Rey slowly came back to the captain and knelt back down. “Wake now...” She waved her hand over Eliza - a gentle glowing, to help wake her...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 29, 2018 18:01:42 GMT -5
“Eliza, is it?” Derek asked as he walked forward.
Eliza was standing at the balcony, overlooking the city. She glanced back to him. She immediately bowed, “Prince Lucius.” She spoke, “What may I do for you?” She questioned.
Derek stepped to the balcony and overlooked the city his eyes scanning the beautiful scenery. “It is to be announced that Liane and I will be moving forward with the marriage.” He smiled. “I will be bringing a mage from my kingdom, she will not be replacing you, but she will help me, a warden of sorts. You two will work well together, I imagine.”
Eliza watched him with a bit of a curious look she then smiled. “As captain of your guard I will be here to protect you and whomever you decide to bring from Lucious to aid you as King.”
Derek chuckled, “Maybe you can teach me a few of your techniques with the sword?” He grinned.
Eliza watched him a moment a smile split her lips. “Of course, even Liane has trained with me.” She chuckled then. “Just try and keep up.”
**
Eliza’s world was filled with darkness. She felt the warmth of the little fox curled up against her side. Though she could not open her eyes. Then, she heard a woman’s voice. It was muddy. She couldn’t make out any of the words. Eliza fought to open her eyes, but she slipped deeper into her unconscious state then as she was placed over the back of the steed. A glowing light finally brought her to. Eliza’s eyes opened and she gasped. She stared to Rey with wide eyes. She took in deep breaths as the pain of her leg washed over her body she groaned slightly. “Wh...” She glanced around to the inside of the barn. “Who...” She drew her brows together. She scrambled to her feet hastily, “Where am I?” She limped to the window. She looked down to her leg that was beautifully tended to. Eliza placed her hand over the bandaging, “Thank you...” She looked to Rey a moment, it was then that she heard shouting, the thunder of hooves. Her heart skipped a beat. She bit her lip. Running from the guard was not going to be easy. Especially so close to the city, she needed to get away.
Eliza stumbled back from the window. “I...I’m sorry, but you’ve endangered yourself...” She looked to Rey she went to speak again as the barn doors were thrown open.
“Here she is!” A knight called as he drew his sword, he looked to her with dark eyes.
The sound of armor clanking as a knight dismounted filled her ears, a familiar sound. Eliza reached to her hip, where her sword usually rest, the space was empty. She took in a shaken breath, she was in no condition to fight off a group of knights. Her knights...
In through the doorway Theodore walked his eyes fell on Eliza, a tinge of sadness. “Come willingly Eliza, you’re in no condition to fight.” He spoke as he watched her.
Eliza bit her lip slightly. “I didn’t do this, Theo...” She shook her head. “Ruger, you know I wouldn’t bring harm to our king...” She looked to the other knight. “Please...”
“Eliza Ashmore, either you come willingly or we will be forced to take you by any means.” Theodore spoke his voice strong. His eyes looked to Rey then. “You will be brought in as well for aiding a criminal.” He then looked to Ruger. “Go and get the blacksmith, we will take him in as well. Who knows what other illegal things he is up to. He must be watched closely.”
Ruger hesitated slightly. “Captain...” He glanced to Eliza then.
“I can handle her, look at her.” Theodore scoffed. He watched then as Ruger left to gather the blacksmith. Theodore took in a deep breath, he looked to Rey a moment, before his eyes fell back on Eliza. “You were supposed to run.” He whispered, his teeth grit.
Eliza took in a breath, “I did...” She muttered.
Theodore sighed softly. He drew his blade. “I cannot allow you to leave, I’m sorry...”
Eliza pulled her dagger, Theodore’s dagger. The images of the prince and the king flew through her vision then. She swallowed then and rushed forward. Eliza was swift, even in her injured state she was leagues better in combat than Theodore. She blocked his blows, though he was holding back. His eyes watched her closely. Eliza pinned him against the wall, blood leaked from her bandage. “Tell Victor I’m not coming back.” She spoke through grit teeth, “Not until I find out what happened.” She slammed her elbow into the side of his head knocking him unconscious. “I’m sorry, Theo.” She whispered. She heard the shouts of the other knights.
Eliza took in a deep breath, “I’m sorry to have gotten off like this, but you need to come with me, for your safety.” She nodded, “I owe you.” She searched Rey’s eyes. She reached down and took Theodore’s sword. A pained expression washed over her face.
“Captain!” A knight called. “Murderer!” He snarled as he rushed Eliza. Soon enough she was surrounded by three men. Eliza staggered, though her movements were calculated and swift. She struck against their armor hitting points that would depress into pressure points. She was inflicting pain, though she was not hurting them, she couldn’t bring herself to hurt her own knights. They were only following orders, and...things didn’t look good for her...even she would be confused if she were outside the situation.
Eliza took the men out one by one. She then rushed forward and brought the hilt of her dagger against the side of the head of the knight that shackled the blacksmith. She fell to her knees in the mud as rain cascaded over her. Eliza staggered to her feet weakly.
“You...murdered the king...” The blacksmith breathed, his jaw loose. “Our king...the prince...” He stared to her as she unlocked the shackles.
“I did not.” Eliza spoke, her eyes locked on his. “Please, I didn’t do anything they told you, I must find Princess Liane...I promise you I will.” She turned and limped toward one of the horses. It had saddlebags on it, more than normal for the search and capture that they were performing. Eliza glanced to Rey. “Come on.” She nodded to her as she fought to climb up on the horse. Eliza helped Rey up on the horse and then they took off. She kicked the sides and they cantered through the forest quickly.
Eliza rode until the steed was beginning to tire, she gripped her thigh, blood soaked through the bandage, her hand was covered in her blood once again. They came to an old abandoned cabin. Eliza slipped from the back of the horse and tied it off. She nearly fell as she stepped up to the door. It was locked in place. She shut her eyes a moment before she slammed her shoulder against the old door, it gave away and she fell inside. She pushed herself up shakily. “I...have to explain...” She muttered to herself.
Eliza limped and collapsed onto a sofa that sat before an old fireplace. “I...apologize for getting you wrapped up in this mess.” She spoke as she grit her teeth. Her eyes fluttered as she took in quick ragged breaths. “I did not kill anyone...” She whispered. “I was shot with a dart...that much I remember...but I did not kill King Leo or Prince Lucious...” She fought to stay awake, her skin was pale from blood loss.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 29, 2018 18:37:48 GMT -5
Rey chuckled slightly at the woman comment - you have endangered yourself. She said nothing in return, now was not the time to be snide. Though, she turned her gaze to the doors of the barn which opened up swiftly. She reached for her sword and drew it from her sheath, holding it with both arms.
Her eyes watched the interactions between the Captain and what was once her men. When they were charged - she easily maneuvered out of a blow and strike the knight on the back - her sword bashing into him and sending him forward, his head smacking on the anvil paces away.
She held her hand up and a pulse wave shot forward to stagger the knight before her, she easily brought her sword upward and cracked it down over his shoulder, sending him into the dirt.
Her eyes glanced to Eliza - even wounded she pushed through the pain, her attacks were precise and flawless. She could tell this woman truly was as good as Derek had said.
Rey’s golden hues looked to the blacksmith who came hurrying forward. “Wait - “ she held her hand upward “You said - “ suddenly she was yanked to the side. She grit her teeth then and held her stone upward as she ran forward, following after Eliza who mounted a horse.
As she ran her earthen steed emerged from the ground, running along side her. She held a hand outward and leapt upward, her leg sliding about the saddle and seating perfectly. She sheathed her sword and held her hand out. Flying from some unknown distance came her staff. It shot into her palm and she held the tip of it downward. The mud behind them smoothed over, hiding their tracks.
They veered off the path, it was evident she knew where to go. Her eyes watched the woman - who slumped slightly in the horse, growing weaker by the minute... Her thoughts peeled apart the words of the blacksmith. The Prince. Dead? Surely that is not what he meant, there had to be a mistake. Was it her prince? Another Prince? Another suitor? Could it be....?
She sniffed back a tear. Derek was one of the first people, aside from the king, to show her kindness. When she arrived wounded and shriveled - it was Derek who sat by her bedside and watched. A prince... shouldn’t ever do such a thing, but he was Kind, and couldn’t watch her suffer.... When she woke - they ate together, and talked... She told him the truth, and he accepted it. Without a bit of regret. The first thing he asked was... How was she going to be better? And what he could do to get her there... From there they both meditated together, the Prince had become like a brother to her. The idea, initially, that he was to be wed made her sad - in the fact that she would have to share his time. Though he promised there was always time for them to ‘hang out’ as he called it...
She sucked in a deep breath as she dismounted and approached the run down home. It was covered in vegetation, thick vines snaked through the window and over the roof. She wouldn’t have even noticed the home was there...
Rey stepped inside and lifted the door - with a wave of her hand It somehow mended, and closed once more. “Eliza” she turned her gaze to her. Serious eyes looked to the woman.
“I doubt you are a murderer, no. You are captain of the royal guard. Derek spoke of you... I am Rey Sunfury, his Warden.” She bowed her head. “I was heading to see him, since we had not had word. Whatever has happened - you must tell me. That blacksmith - he said that the Prince was dead? Prince Lucius?” She brought a hand up then to her lips, muffling a slight whimper.
“Please tell me that is not so...” She collapsed to her knees then and bit her lower lip...
The day before Derek left - they got into an argument. Rey wanted to come with him, but Derek insisted he could do this journey alone, just like all of the other times. He joked on how he wanted personal time with Liane, and that Rey would not let him have that. She called him an arrogant fool, and he laughed at her. Would that be the last time they would have spoken?
She had felt this pit in her stomach, which is why she wanted to go. It was a familiar feeling - the feeling she would get right before death would occur. It was some kind of Sixth sense for her. In the past she craved that feeling. But now it scared her more than anything. She begged to go with him, but the love-struck prince was stuck in his decision, not a worry across his mind...
“Obviously you do not know who killed him...” She shook her head. “Damnit! Why?” She sighed deeply and stood once more. “And Liane is gone, hm?” She crossed her arms.
“So who would take place of the King... It’s no sudden luck that the King is killed, the Princess disappears... But why... Why Derek?” She paced then and shook her head then. “We have to act fast - we have to figure out what happened. King Lucius, he is a kind man, but he will lose his mind if he learns his son is dead - with out the truth behind it. It is likely he will wage war on the Kingdom, and.... Your people will not rise from that fight...” She shook her head. “If you do not know what happened... Maybe the Princess will? We need to find her. At a minimum, if we can get her back to the Kingdom then she can take the throne properly....” She paused then and held a hand to her eyes once more, brushing a bit of tears away.
She then moved over to Eliza and knelt down to her wound. “Opened it all up...” She removed the bandages and cleaned it once more, and tended to it. Rey sighed deeply, Eliza was knocked out clean...
Rey reached into her bag and pulled out a parchment. She wrote out what she knew.
My King,
It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that Derek has been slain. It appears there has been some internal affair within the Kingdom. King Baylor and Prince Derek are both dead, Princess Liane has disappeared.
I have come across their Captain of the Royal Guard, Eliza - she is wounded, and the entire doing has been pinned on her. Derek trusted this woman, he spoke to me before. I do not believe she is the true murderer. She speaks that she was tranquilized, and woke in a scene that was clearly set, she recalls nothing. I will not trust her right away, but for now she is all I have. I intend on working with her to bring justice forward, we cannot let Derek rest until we know the truth.
We believe whoever is behind this - is the same who has kidnapped Liane. I plan to take Eliza to the seers of Highmountain, perhaps they can help scry the princess and locate her...
My King, my best advice is to wait until I can report more. I know this... is terrible news... I know you will want to seek revenge, but we need to remain civil, we need to honor your son. We need to understand who, and why, and then we can move forward....
I will keep you updated.
Much love,
Rey Sunfury.
Rey stepped outside. It was nighttime - the rain had stopped... She held her hand forward and a owl suddenly swooped down and plucked the letter and flew away...
She turned her gaze to fall back upon Eliza... to which she sat down next to her, and eventually fell asleep...
When morning came she rose. “How are you feeling?” She questioned to Eliza, who stirred. She held a bun forward, bread from the blacksmith.
“I have an idea...” She spoke. “We must travel north to Highmountain and climb the highest peak. The Highmountain seers have the ability to scry, to show us where Liane is...We will need that knowledge, and their blessing...” She sighed softly. “Often this comes with some kind of price, they will decide when we arrive...” She raised a brow.
“You should know something...” She stood then and combed her raven hair over her shoulder. “I ran to Lucius was a refuge, and have rebuilt my life. I am on his council of mages, but before that life... I was a Battle Mage of Genevia, brain washed to fight under their spell... I was able to break it and run, which means I am constantly hunted. No Genevian mage, soldier, or anyone escapes their grip. So... we will be hunted by your kingdom, and possibly Genevia... I would allow you the opportunity to go without me because of it, but I cannot. I must unravel who killed Prince Derek... We are stuck on this journey together....”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 29, 2018 23:02:02 GMT -5
Eliza lowered her eyes as she saw the sadness in this woman. The mage that she’d spoke with Derek about several times. He always spoke highly of her. “I wish I could tell you otherwise.” She whispered softly. “If I knew what happened...” She shook her head, her vision fading. “The king has a brother...Victor...a stubborn bull-headed...idiot...” She gripped her leg, her breathing trembled. “He has taken the throne...he ordered me to hang today, but Theo released me...I just didn’t make it far enough...” She whispered the last bit. “Victor is a careless mess...he and Leo fought many times...” She shook her head. “I never...saw anything like this coming...I was so...certain...it was my job to keep the royal family safe...I failed...them...” Her voice was sad, her words trailed off as she fell unconscious. As Rey worked on her leg she didn’t even flinch, she was lost in a deep slumber from her injuries and blood loss.
**
In the early hours of the morning the sun’s rays peeked through the windows of the old cabin casting its warmth upon Eliza. Her eyes fluttered open. Eliza grit her teeth almost immediately from the pain. “I wish I was feeling much less right now.” She replied as she took the bread. “Thank you.” She nodded to Rey. She nibbled on it and her time in the dungeon passed before her mind. Bread and water, the only thing she’d had in the last week. She shook the musty dungeon from her mind. “The Highmountain?” She asked, she gave a slow nod. “I’ve heard of it, I’ve never been there, I’ve spent my life at the side of King Leo, devoted to the safety of the royal family.”
It was then that Rey spoke of where she was from. Genevia. Eliza’s eyes looked over this woman before her, she searched her over for a moment and bit her lip slightly. The mages of Genevia were machines, deadly killing machines. She watched her as she spoke her story, “We will be hunted then.” She replied as she pushed herself up. She limped heavily and clenched her jaw. She let out a light whimper as she took a step forward. “Alright no time to waste then...” Eliza nodded as she opened the door to the cabin. “Theo packed this horse up.” She spoke as she limped to the steed. She opened up a saddle bag and pulled a packet of jerky, she tossed one to Rey. “I understand why you didn’t kill any of the knights, many mages of your power would have done so to help us get away back there.” Eliza then offered a weak smile. “It is very admirable that you would rather spare a life than take it, I too value that decision.” She tried to climb onto her horse and slipped slightly. Eliza stood for a moment, she took in a slow deep breath, her eyes closed. She then forced herself to muster enough energy to climb upon the horse. She tossed a piece of jerky into her mouth and munched on it as she began down the pathway.
“The further we get from Praiyarith...the less the soldiers will follow...at least that it my hope. Though, with how angry Victor seemed to be....he may be hellbent on tracking me down.” She whispered. Eliza sighed softly. “I am sorry about your prince, Rey...I will do all that I can to mend this...though I know that it is not fully fixable.”
Eliza gripped her leg. “Thank you, again for patching my leg...” She grit her teeth. As they rode the forest thinned. They were riding through a valley now, the high mountain could be seen far in the distance. “How many days travel is it?” She questioned and looked to Rey.
Eliza seemed to be thinking as she looked back forward. “Derek spoke highly of you...he spoke of you and I working together when he became king.” She let out a slow breath. She didn’t speak further for a long moment. She seemed focused on the road ahead. “I hope Liane is safe and that she knows what happened at the ball...”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 1, 2018 19:24:22 GMT -5
Rey stood from Eliza, her hues glancing down to her as she spoke. “We must expect the worst, that we will be hunted by both parties, no matter the distance...” She lifted her sword, which remained sheathed - and she slung the strap about her chest, allowing the sword to rest on her back.
“We should get going then, Highmountain is a few days away...” She grasped her blue stone and squeezed it - the blue essence slipped between her fingers. As she stepped outside - her eyes glanced to a raven that sat in the tree directly infant of her. It had red glowing eyes...
This raven released a shrieking caw and then lifted into the air, bolting off into the sky. “Damnit” she cursed. Her steed approached her and waited in idle. Typically a normal horse might greet her, but this magical creature was just that - it lacked emotion like a horse would, all it was - was a servant of sorts.
“That Raven...” Rey turned her eyes to Eliza, who had followed her. “Lord Rio - that was his raven... A pet of his, of whom he can see through. He must be on the lead of the hunt...” She bit her lower lip. “His Raven has to return to him for him to retrieve the vision, this gives us time to move...” She then leaped onto her horse and grasped the reigns. “Come on”
They bound forward, running through the forest with speed. Soon enough they came from the canopies and entered a barren plains. She looked back to see Eliza’s horse dragging behind, unable to maintain the speed for too long. She slowed down and trot next to Eliza.
“The Barrens - then to the rolling hills of Eluzia, that lead to the mountains. From there we trek until we locate the highest peak, and then we have to climb...” She glanced to her “Not many seek the aid of the seers, only those with dire need. They are a... unique group of ancient women. Depending on the reasoning, the spirit... can determine whatever we pay to them for their services. I’ve heard stories...” She glanced up to the sun which was growing higher in the sky.
“One man paid a few gold coins, another paid 10 years of his life, unborn children, whatever they want for whatever their plan is...” she shook her head and sighed. “Then... we are tied to them, if they ever need anything... all they have to do is ask, a blood pact” she raised a brow. “Is this a risk you are willing to take? As far as my knowledge goes, they will be the only ones able to locate your princess...”
As sun grew higher - the heat rose with it. The barrens...a wasteland of cracked ground and salty dried up lakes. An occasional tree, not a leaf on it’s limb. “We should be coming up on Fyera, see that Oasis?” She pointed forward to lush greenery in the midst of the golden dried land. “A small village...” She sucked in a breath. “Any of our enemies that know we could be heading this way would either already be there, or be waiting on us. Your call... but water, food, some rest...” She turned her gaze. “You make the decisions, I will follow and protect you...”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 2, 2018 8:45:02 GMT -5
Eliza stared to the raven, she’d seen things like it before. Magical creations, or creatures under the control of a mage. The red eyes seemed to seer into her mind as she watched it, the next moments Rey explained who the raven belonged to.
Eliza gave a nod, “We should move quickly then.” She spoke as she climbed onto her steed, she winced from the pain in her leg and gripped onto it tightly for a moment before she gave the horse a swift kick. Then they were off. They raced through the forest, Eliza gripped tightly onto the horn of the saddle, she could feel blood leaking from the wound on her thigh. As they rode on the distance between them became larger, her horse bobbed its head, slowing, it couldn’t keep up. Though just as Eliza was about to call out to the mage she slowed to her side. Eliza pat the side of the horse whom was breathing heavily, it gnawed on the bit within its mouth anxiously as it trotted along.
The Barrens. It was a wasteland. As far as Eliza could see life did not wander. A few scavenger birds circled overhead, awaiting one of the group to fall out. “I’ve heard stories of what the seers ask.” She responded, her voice soft, her eyes focused ahead. “My loyalty is to the royal family, I have sworn to protect them. I failed my king, I will not fail the princess. So long as what the seers want from me does not impede my duty to protect her, I would gladly hand my soul over to them.” She looked to Rey, “I have nothing else in this world.” She brushed sweat from her brow, her cheeks were a rosy pink from the heat.
Eliza’s eyes moved to the oasis, her mouth was dry from the heat. She could feel herself getting weaker by the moment, and her steed beneath her was slowing with each step it seemed. Slowly she gave a nod, “It is our only option, unfortunately. I am not sure about you, but I cannot bear much more of this heat...I need water...” Her voice was soft as she spoke.
Eliza fell quiet as they rode toward Fyera. It felt as though the sun was beating against her. She closed her eyes a moment, slouching forward slightly. Her muscles wanted everything to give in, to give up. But, she wouldn’t allow it. Eliza sat back up, her hand on the horn once more. As they came to the city the shade of the beautiful palm trees offered a cool like none other. Eliza slipped from the back of her horse, allowing him a break. She limped forward through the city her eyes glanced to the strangers that worked and traded with the merchants. It wasn’t a terribly busy city due to the location, but people were always in and out.
Eliza paused a moment. She dug through the saddle bags and a smile split her lips. “Thank you Theo.” She whispered as she pulled out a bag of coins. “Food?” She asked and looked to Rey.
**
“My, my....” A man’s voice crackled. “Your brother was one for secrets, wasn’t he?” He chuckled deeply. “Yes, yes he was.” A man dressed in black robes stood in the royal chamber, he was sifting through the late King Leo’s items. He held a book in his hands, a journal.
“She came to me, on a stormy night, terrified and out of options. She couldn’t keep her daughter safe in the times we were faced with. In the past Ira saved my life, so it was only fair for me to take her daughter and offer her safety. Over the next week I entrusted her to the only man I knew would care for her well, as if she were his own blood, Captain Jon. He’s taken to the child quite well, there is a light in his eyes that I’ve never seen before. To think, he doesn’t even know that Eliza is a Divine.”
The man grinned as he looked up to Victor. His eyes were a dark crimson color, “You see Victor? You had power right beneath your nose this entire time.” He snickered. “This girl, she is your key to success.”
Victor watched the man before him. “Deka...A Divine? Living right here in Pariyarith?” Victor pulled the journal from the man’s hands, he flipped through it looking over his brother’s writing.
Deka grinned as he stepped off, looking through more items. “Right beneath your nose, Victor. And the best part of all?” He licked his lips slightly. “She doesn’t know. She would have called upon her dragon the moment she was in trouble if she knew. Think about it.” He stared to Victor for a long moment. “We have a Divine that hasn’t been awoken yet. All of that raw power, completely untapped. Think of what that could do for us....for you.” He chuckled. “We could flatten Genevia. We would be the most powerful kingdom, take rule over everything.” He pulled a coin from the desk that he stood before. “So, do we have a deal, my king?” He smirked.
**
Eliza sat down heavily at the table. She took in shallow breaths, her vision was blurred. Once the water was poured she gulped it down quickly. She shook her head. “We can’t stay long, Victor’s men will be one us before the sun sets, and I can only imagine how quickly the soldiers from Genevia will act once they’ve received word of you...” She sighed slightly as a sandwich was placed before her on the table. Eliza bit into it, her stomach growled happily and she shut her eyes. “This is incredible.” She whispered before crunching a kettle chip.
“Aye girl.” A man looked to her from another table, he held a large mug in his hands that was frothy at the top. “Ye better be careful.” He spoke, his eyes droopy from the alcohol. His nose was red as a cherry. “That man in the shadows has been staring you down since you girls sat down.” He burped then and tilted the mug finishing it off easily.
Eliza took in a breath, “Thanks.” She spoke to him her eyes moved to Rey. “It seems we may not get much of a break, hm...” She looked over her shoulder then, her eyes locked on the man that stood in the shadows his eyes watching her. She looked back to Rey, “We should get moving.” She pushed herself up, she grit her teeth. “A break would have been welcomed.” She muttered as she started outside. She glanced over her shoulder the man moved behind them in the crowd.
As he moved closer Eliza suddenly stopped and spun, her dagger to his throat. “I’d caution you in making any further advancements.” She stared up into his eyes.
The man’s eyes widened and his jaw loosened. “I....” He stammered, “I didn’t....” He held his hands up, “I just saw your seal...” He nodded to the seal on her shoulder, the seal of the king of Pariyarith. “I wanted to ask you...if it was true...is King Leo dead? Murdered by his own captain?”
Eliza lowered her dagger and sheathed it, “The king is dead, yes.” She then shook her head, “No, his captain would never do such a thing.” She turned then and took a step forward. She gasped as she felt a burning sensation in her thigh. She looked down to see a dart sticking from her leg. “Rey...” She ripped it from her thigh. “This...” Her step wavered. “This...is...” She stumbled, her chest felt as though it was collapsing in on itself. Her eyes fluttered as she fought to stay conscious. “We...need...to...” She used a wall to hold herself up. “Horses...r-run...” She moved along the wall sluggishly.
A man about 20 feet away from them stood with a gun holstered at his hip. He wore all black clothing with black leather armor cinched into place. A red seal upon the back of his hand. A seal well known during the war against the Divine. It was the seal of the Shadow Sect. The man advanced forward then as Eliza struggled to take another step. “You don’t have to worry about this vigilante anymore, dear.” He spoke as he approached, “I’ll return her to the King of Pariyarith, no need to make a fuss over it.”
Eliza moved then, she drew her dagger and tossed it. The dagger sliced through the air and stabbed into his abdomen. The man let out a yelp as he buckled forward. “Come...on...” Eliza fell as she fought against the tranquilizer. She made it to her horse and pulled herself onto the steed. By this time her vision was nothing but a pinhole. She kicked at his sides and the horse took off. Moments later Eliza was slumped forward on his back, bobbing about as the horse cantered from the village toward the High Mountain.
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Post by Raven on Oct 2, 2018 21:51:37 GMT -5
They made their way to oasis. Rey sat the table of the diner, eating her own food quietly as her eyes watched about. Before the drunken man could even tell them - her hues were already pinned on some dark figure in the corner. Their locked eyes briefly, and she shifted in response - she did not want a fight, not now.
Moments later the dart flew forward, stabbing Eliza. Rey quickly shuffled forward and yanked the feathered dart from her thigh and wrapped it in a linen towel that was about the table. She tossed it into her bag and then grasped Eliza’s arm, helping her rush towards the door.
Rey snapped her head back to watch Eliza’s dagger stab into the attacker. She sucked in a deep breath, blood dripping from his wound. She turned then and helped Eliza rush forward. As the man tried to approach - the drunkard slammed his empty mug over his head, knocking him cold clean out.
“Thank you” she shouted and they made their way to their steeds. They quickly set off, headed north. Though not far into the run - Eliza was about to collapse off her horse. “Easy - “ she spoke to her horse, who slowed down to trot next to Eliza.
Rey reached her arms forward and grasped the woman, she lifted her and pulled her onto her own horse. “Damnit” she cursed softly, adjusting this woman to sit infant of her. Eliza slumped forward then, and Rey wrapped an arm around her, holding her up slightly.
Her horse then rushed forward, it did not falter in speed - and maintained it all the way until they escaped the dry barrens. The next lands were the lush rolling hills. The grass came up nearly a foot, her horse basically trudged through it, they came to a light trot now, as the bouncing was bothering her slightly.
“That man...” She whispered. “I’ve never seen anyone like him....” She pulled her brows together. She wanted to study that dart - what did he poison her with... It wasn’t meant to kill, just a tranquilizer...
Rey held her hand out - and her wisp formed once more. “Find me a place to rest” she called to it. They weaved through some trees, jutting downward into a small valley. Until they came upon a rocky area, to which a cavern await them. It didn’t go very deep, and was clearly a common resting place...
Rey pulled her horse to a stop and helped Eliza down... she was still knocked out... This stuff - it was strong. She lowered the woman onto the stone grey ground. The sun was beginning to set in the distance, a cold breeze wafted into the small cavern. Before them was an old fire pit, dried and used up wood sat in the middle.
Rey stood and glanced down to the sleeping woman - she escaped briefly, collecting bits of wood. She came back with an arm full and dumped it down... She sat and arranged it perfectly, and then snapped her fingers. The fire lit easily, burning hot...
She leaned back slightly, her arms crossing over her knees.... Her thoughts of her Prince - recalling him laughing, smiling - making fun of her, and she in return. Her friend... Gone. How she wished to see him again, just briefly...
There was a cawing - the Raven. She stood swiftly and lifted her hand - a blast of purple magic shot forward and hit the raven. It sent the raven flying back into a tree, and then collapsing to the ground. Rey stood and walked over to it... “I am sorry...” She whispered, she leaned down and gripped the Raven. Suddenly it turn into ashes, dying - its magical dust remaining in her palms.
She turned her hand, letting the dust and ashes fall from her hand... She stood upward and glanced towards the trees. From the tree - something looked down to her. It leaped forward in an instant. Rey brought her arm up - a huge black panther, with glowing red eyes - bit down on her arm. She cried out in a pain, blood leaking from it’s razor sharp teeth. She reached forward and gripped the panther’s head, trying to pry it away - but she couldn’t. It crunched down harder and she fell to the ground. This panther was like the raven - coursing with magic. It disabled her, it’s magic kept her from casting - she couldn’t. “No - “ she cried out and tried to beat down on his head... nothing, this was the end for her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 3, 2018 11:15:13 GMT -5
“Where is she?” Deka growled as he rushed forward toward the man that attacked Eliza and Rey in Fyera. The man was on his knees, his hand clutched his abdomen. “Where is the girl?” Deka gripped his collar and pulled him up.
“She...escaped...with the mage...” Blood leaked from his lips. “I...got her though...with the dart...as you requested...”
Deka searched the man’s eyes, a smirk curved up the edge of his lips. “At least you’re not completely worthless.” He dropped him harshly. “Very well, take him away.” He waved his hand and moved to the desk.
“Where should we take him sir?” A knight asked as he stood over the dying mage.
Deka grinned as he looked to the knight. “Wherever you dispose of the trash, that should do.” He turned back to his notebooks. He had stacks of papers and items that once belonged to King Leo. “Now then...where are you going...?” He questioned as he looked over the documents. “Ryder.”
“Yes sir.” A man rushed into the room. He stood tall, he wore the same clothing as the man that Eliza stabbed.
“Track the girl, would you? Catch her alive, don’t injure her. We need her alive.” Deka spoke and looked up, “Don’t fail me.” He narrowed his eyes slightly.
**
Eliza felt nothing...it was as if she was floating in space. The silence was a deafening thing. Her mind wandered. It wandered to the moment that she picked up a wooden sword for the first time.
She stood in the practice yard, her father was sparring with a new knight. She lifted the beaten up piece of wood and looked it over. She swung a few times and giggled, a playful smile on her lips. She was just a child, certainly not big enough for sword play. But, a boy stepped forward, he was a bit older than her. “Want to practice?” He asked he too held a wooden sword.
Eliza looked to him with her big blue eyes, she grinned, “Yes.” She nodded quickly. She glanced to her father, he was busy teaching. She’d watched him for hours. She’d listened to him coach the young knights.
“I want to be a knight, one day.” The boy smiled. “I’m Theo.” He watched her a moment. “You’re Captain Jon’s daughter right?” He asked.
Eliza look to Theo and gave a nod. “Yes, Eliza.” She spoke and lifted the sword. “If you’re to be a knight, then show me your skill.” She grinned.
It wasn’t graceful. The two were just young children. But this was the beginning, of many things. Theo knocked Eliza over and she returned the favor. Soon enough her father was watching with a warm smile. He watched as she taught herself with Theo, as she improved her skills. At the beginning of a sparing match Eliza moved swiftly, she stepped forward and struck from a low angle, driving the sword up into Theo’s ribs, he fell back harshly and she held her blade to his throat. He stared up to her in awe. He then chuckled. “I’ll be better than you one day.” He brushed himself off.
“Good luck.” Eliza grinned. “I won’t allow it.” She chuckled. “Every step to take to be better, I’ll match it and then some.” She was a competitive young sprite.
Jon chuckled as he watched the two. “There will be plenty of wins, and plenty of losses for you both. Come on now, you must be hungry.” He smiled to Eliza. She happily ran to him and jumped into his arms, he moved her to his back as he carried her away from the practice arena and toward their home.
A cry of pain then shot into the memory. “No -”
Eliza suddenly sat up, she gasped for air. Her vision was a blur. She heard the sound of bones crunching beneath the strong jaws of the beast. Her eyes fell upon the fire, she reached forward and grabbed the long slender stick that was meant for stirring the fire. The end of it had been in the flames. Eliza rushed forward, it was a bit of a stumble at first but she gained control. She slammed into the side of the panther, the stick stabbed into the creature’s side. It sizzled against the flesh of the beast. It’s jaws opened and it snarled fiercely as Eliza toppled to the side with it.
Eliza was swiftly knocked back by the panther, she slammed against the trunk of a tree. Her vision blacked out for a moment. The next moment the panther pinned her and snarled in her face, she couldn’t move, the weight of the creature was crushing her. “Stop!” She cried, as if that would get through to the panther. Though, something happened. The panther faltered slightly, the eyes lost the red glow as the creature stared at Eliza. A blue glow replaced the crimson color. Eliza took in a shaken breath as the panther took a step back removing it’s large paws from her chest. She scrambled to her feet and stared at the panther as it sat patiently, it’s eyes never left her.
Eliza moved then she stepped quickly over to the mage and knelt down. “Rey?” She asked, she stared to the mage a moment though the sound of the panther’s growl brought her eyes up again. The red glow had returned. Eliza acted swiftly, she reached and pulled Rey’s sword from its sheath. She stood and rushed forward as the panther rushed her. The creature leaped into the air and wrapped its arms around her, digging its claws into her back. Eliza let out a cry as she was slammed to her back. The sword was through the body of the panther. The light began to fade from its eyes, she’d struck it in the heart. Eliza pushed against the panther just as it turned to ashes. She groaned slightly, she could feel the punctures from the claws in her back. She stood slowly and limped toward Rey. Eliza grit her teeth slightly, “Come on.” She gripped Rey under her arms and pulled her to the cavern. The flicker of the flames lit up the space as Eliza sat down next to her.
“Let me see here...” She carefully pulled the cloth away from Rey’s wound. The flesh was shredded, she could see the white of bone. Eliza bit her lip slightly. “This isn’t good, Rey.” She spoke softly. She stood and moved to her horse who waited idly. Eliza searched through the saddlebags until she found a med kit. She came back and sat down. “Here.” She shoved a piece of cloth into Rey’s mouth. “Bite down.” She spoke before she began working. Eliza pulled on Rey’s wrist, pulling the bones back into place with a loud snap. Eliza then began cleaning the wound with a bit of water. She worked tirelessly. Eliza pulled out the suture kit and worked the skin back together, stitch by stitch. Cleaning the wound carefully before she closed it up. Eliza eventually took a stick from the woodpile and attached it to Rey’s arm before she wrapped a cloth around her arm, keeping the bones in place.
Eliza sat back then and stared to the flames of the fire. She took in a deep breath as she rubbed the blood from her hands. She then leaned against the rocky wall of the cavern. Her eyes were heavy as she looked out into the crisp night. Sleep took her easily, she couldn’t even protest against it.
The next morning Eliza woke. She glanced to the mage as she stood, she gripped her tight and grit her teeth. She limped from the cavern and looked about. She stepped to her horse and pulled a few things from the pouches before she moved back to Rey’s side. She set a small pouch near Rey. “Hey, we should get moving before they catch up.” She dug into her own pouch of food, it was jerky and dried fruits as well as a few nuts, something that the soldiers ate while they were at war. “How’s your arm?” She questioned softly. The knights always wanted her to tend to their wounds, they said she had a gentle touch, that their wounds felt better the next day, unlike if anyone else were to work on their wounds. She always chuckled and shrugged it off. Thinking the knights were just saying that. In this moment, she hoped the knights weren’t being fictitious, she hoped she’d helped Rey. The break in her arm was horrible...she could only imagine the pain...
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Post by Raven on Oct 4, 2018 22:37:44 GMT -5
Rey cried out deeply - sharp fangs pierced against her bone. Its head jerked from side to side - tearing and shredding her flesh. Though suddenly the panther let go of her - Rey immediately stumbled back and fell. The pain that crashed upon her body was so strong that she couldn’t even cry. No.. her fingers gripped her arm, getting lost in the flapping bits of skin - muscle torn, as if holding it would stop the bleeding.
Her arm became covered with her blood, hand smothered, it dripped down in flowing streams to the dirt and formed a caked bit of blood. She felt Eliza lift her. The world was a haze, blurry and quiet, like she was under water. She was placed on the ground, and slowly she lowered - her back resting so she could lay.
Her teeth bit down on a bit of cloth - she could feel Eliza shifting about the wound. The moment her bones snapped back into place - her vision blackened, and she passed out from pain. The rest would have been easy for Eliza - since Rey was not writhing from pain.
Rey woke in the morning - only due to the stirring of Eliza. She slowly sat up - her arm pain swarming her. “Damnit..” She glanced down to the wrapping about her arm, the sort of cast Eliza had crafted. She could hardly remember it - it flashed before her suddenly, the Raven... then the panther. She sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly.
“It...hurts” she slowly stood, holding her arm outward. “This is going to be a real damper...” She muttered and then she dug in her pouch - her blue stone summoned her horse once more. “I’m going to need some pain killers.. If you see a patch of yellow and red flowers, its a chance that that it could be Dew Bloom, they have a strong natural pain suppressant, but too much can be poisonous... at this point - I’m willing to risk it...”
She ate a few berries, but the pain of her arm made her nearly sick. He had lost a lot of blood - not to mention... Rey climbed upon her horse, her free hand gripping the reign... She groaned and then nodded. “Lets get moving...” She held her arm to her side and then they rode forward...
They made it an hour before Rey slowed down, the bouncing of the horse - the throbbing of her arm, it was too much. She had to take a break. They paused a tree, stepping into the shade to snack on some bread, and take a breather.
Riding down the road was a small caravan of traders, they made their way past - paying the two no mind as they passed. But from the group - a figure stopped. A man in all black, upon a black horse too. “Eliza - “ Rey looked toward him, it reminded her of the man from before...
“Well well...” The man approached, a wicked grin across his face. He climbed from his horse and approached... Rey held her staff with her free hand - facing it forward.
“You will go no further - “ she commanded.
Suddenly the man rushed forward with great speed - before Rey could even throw a spell - his hand gripped her broken arm and squeezed it roughly. Stitches easily busted and blood soaked through the bandages. In his other hand was a knife - which he held to Rey’s throat.
“Eliza... You will come with me - if you want your friend here to live...” He grinned then...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 5, 2018 10:41:53 GMT -5
Eliza lowered her eyes slightly, she winced a bit, she didn’t like to see others in pain. Not when if she was conscious she felt as though she could have stopped it...
“I’ll find you something...” Eliza spoke as they stopped beneath the tree. She rummaged through the bags. “Theo had to pack something in here.” She spoke as she pulled small burlap bags out and sifted through them. Eliza sighed softly as she searched, though then Rey called her name. She looked up from the other side of her horse just in time for the man to rush forward. Eliza clenched her fists.
“Don’t.” The man spoke, his grip was tight on Rey.
Eliza took a step forward. “Let her go.” She spoke, her voice strong, her eyes stared to him.
The man pressed the blade harder against Rey’s neck. “One more step, I’ll slice through and I’ll watch her choke on her own blood.” He spoke his voice low, menacing.
Eliza took in a breath her eyes watched Rey for a moment. She bit her lower lip. “If you want to kill someone, why not just kill me? That’s what the king wants isn’t it? Are you a bounty hunter?”
The man chuckled then, “Hm, no, the king wants you very much alive....and I’m not a bounty hunter, I’m simply following orders. Now, you will come with me, no fuss. Or I’ll be sure to end this one’s life, hm?” His eyes didn’t move from Eliza as he spoke. The crimson color of his eyes made her uncomfortable. She looked to the red stitching of the symbol on the back of his gloved hand.
Eliza slowly gave a nod, “There is no sense in anyone else dying.” She spoke softly. She clenched her jaw slightly as she stared to Rey.
“Good.” The man moved swiftly then, he pulled something form his pocket and jabbed it into Rey’s shoulder. An injection. “You’ll sleep rather well now. I can’t have you following us.” He chuckled.
Eliza rushed forward then. “What the hell did you do?!” She snapped. With that she slammed into him and knocked him to the ground. Eliza threw a punch that hooked into his jaw harshly. Her legs were straddled around his body as she threw another punch. This time he ducked to the side and her fist slammed into the soft dirt behind him.
“You’re going to wish you hadn’t done that!” He snapped as he rolled her and gripped her tightly around her neck.
Eliza choked and gripped onto his forearm. She grit her teeth and brought her knee up into his groin. The man rolled from her groaning in pain. Eliza moved swiftly then and slammed her elbow into his back. They were on the ground again. The man pinned her down, his face red with anger. Suddenly he gripped onto her thigh his thumb pressed into her wound ripping it open. Eliza let out a horrible scream, her grip upon him loosened and her vision blurred from the incredible amount of pain. “Don’t worry, you won’t fight for too long.” He spoke as he leaned down his lips next to her ear. “I’ll be sure of that.” He pulled another bullet syringe and jabbed it into her.
Eliza gripped his hand as the liquid injected into her. Her body trembled from pain as blood rushed from her leg. “Why...does...he want me...alive?” She questioned her voice filled with pain. “If he...is using me...to cover the murder...shouldn’t...I be...dead?”
The man grinned and tilted his head slightly as he looked to her. “Deka was right about you.” He smirked then, “You’ve no idea what you are.” He stood then and cleared his throat. “Still awake?” He questioned and chuckled as he looked at Rey. He knelt down and gripped her jaw. “Don’t try to follow.” He searched her eyes. “You’re lucky I’m even giving you this chance to live, but, I have a soft spot for mages such as yourself.” He chuckled. The man then stood and turned. “Now then.” He lifted Eliza up, her body was limp, she couldn’t move, she could hear her racing pulse pounding against her eardrums. Her eyes fluttered and then...silence...
**
Hours passed. The sun began to set over the tops of the trees, a cool air slipped over the valley. Arms wrapped around Rey gently. “Come on.” A man’s voice spoke. “It’s alright, you’re safe.” His voice was gentle. “Let’s get you patched up huh?” He lifted her up and pulled her onto his horse. He pulled her back against his chest and rode for an hour or so before the man unloaded her and carefully cradled her in his arms.
There was a knock on a thick wooden door then. “Calista, I need your help.” The man spoke.
The door slowly opened and a gentle light cast over Rey. “This one is very ill...” A wise voice spoke. “Very, very ill...”
“Please...” The man spoke his voice soft.
“Come.”
The man carried Rey forward and soon set her on a gentle bedding. In the light of the room he shifted and looked around the the herbs and plants that grew, the different vials and books that were strewn about. “Theo.” The woman spoke.
The man looked to her, his dark chestnut hues were full of sadness. “Yes?” He questioned.
“Did you find Eliza?” Calista questioned. She sat with a black cloak that clung to her shoulders, she wore a black dress beneath this that had red stitching of flowers upon it, a beautiful design. Her hair was a green color, almost like a plant and she had long pointed ears. She looked down to Rey and pulled away the wrapping on her arm. “Oh dear.” She spoke before she began moving around, gathering items. “Well? Theo?”
Theo took in a breath. “I’m afraid Ryder got to them first...I found the mage like this.”
“Hm...what makes you so sure you can trust her?” She questioned as she began to work on Rey’s arm, cleansing it. She dropped a pellet of herbs into Rey’s mouth. “Chew.” She spoke her voice smooth. “It’ll ease the pain.” She then went back to cleaning dirt from the wound.
“She chose to protect Eliza, at the blacksmith’s home...not many would have done that...most would have easily turned her over...” Theo spoke and sighed softly. “Look, Calista, I need to get back to the castle, the....King will be expecting me...” He sighed heavily then. “He...” He grit his teeth. “The king wants me to be present for whatever they plan on doing to Eliza...I must stop it...he has been speaking gibberish...speaking of the Divine...power...taking down the king of Genevia...Victor is mad...”
“A Divine? Alive?” Calista questioned. “We may only pray he doesn’t get his hands on that poor soul...” She whispered.
Theo bit his lip, “We are going to have to do more than pray, Calista.” He stood. “I must head back before he suspects anything. I will return once I know where they are keeping her...” Theo then looked to Rey a moment. “Keep her safe for me.” He spoke before he left the home.
**
Hours flooded together. It was cold and dark. Eliza could feel tight straps over her body, holding her down to an icy cold metal surface. She fought to wake up, but her eyes refused to open. She felt pinches and small punctures from needles inserting into her skin. Then suddenly, her eyes opened. Eliza cried out in pain as she felt a burning sensation envelope her body. She found herself staring at the ceiling of a dark brick room, she thrashed against her bonds that held her down. “Let me go!!” She screamed her voice echoed back to her from the bare walls.
“Oh poor thing, you’re not comfortable?” Deka spoke as he stepped forward, his face came into her vision. “You’re going to give us what we want.” He spoke his eyes glaring into hers. “I’ll keep pumping you full of chemicals until your body gives in.”
Eliza felt every muscle in her body tense then and she shuddered. “What...do you want....?” She questioned through grit teeth.
Deka chuckled, “I want what you don’t even realize you have.” He spoke, “You won’t even miss it.” He adjusted a few of her tie downs. “Crank it up.” He nodded and motioned to someone in the shadows. Eliza screamed, it felt like a thousand volts of electricity was jolting through her body. She could only take so much before her body fell limp and she once again drifted off into an unconscious state...
“What are you doing to her? Are you mad?” Theo growled as he hit the red button on the switches. “The king ordered her alive, not dead! You’re going to kill her with these experiments!”
Ryder looked over a smirk on his lips. “Well, we haven’t exactly awoken a Divine before. They say stress can induce it.” He shrugged, “So, we will continue to torture her until she either loses all will to fight or that creature within her is activated.”
Theo crossed his arms. “This is ridiculous.” He spoke, his voice softer. “She’ll die...” He looked through the glass at Eliza on the thick metal table. “You’re going to kill her.”
“Oh you don’t understand the Divine do you?” Ryder questioned. “You see, death isn’t the same for them...it’s much different, they are much harder to kill...there is a process to actually expelling them from this realm. That’s how we killed so many before. But draining their power? That’s another gig...and with the power she harnesses...” He grinned then. “We will easily defeat Genevia...and King Victor will be proud, we have been pushing for this all along. Don’t you see?” Ryder questioned.
“What power are you trying to pull from her? She’s just a knight! She’s no mage!” Theo snapped.
Ryder chuckled then he pressed a few more buttons and watched as Deka walked around Eliza’s unconscious body. “Oh, she much more than a mage, my friend.” He spoke as he lifted a lever. “We just need to wake that part of her up.”
Theo paced as they experimented on her through the day. He bit his lip as he watched her fight against the bonds, he looked away when she screamed in pain. “I’m sorry...” He whispered beneath his breath. When King Victor announced that they were to find Eliza for testing, he rushed out to find them before Ryder could. But he was too slow...the mages moved too quickly for him.
Theo stepped to Eliza’s side as the mages left the room. “I’m sorry...” He whispered and brushed a few locks of hair from her eyes. “I’m going to get you out of this, Eliza. I promise.” He spoke as he stepped away. He made his way by horseback back to Calista’s small cabin in the forest. Theo climbed from the back as the sun rose from the horizon. He knocked on the door. “Calista.” He spoke, though as he went to knock again the door opened. “Good morning.”
“Shh.” She held her finger to her lips. “Come.” She nodded, her voice soft. “I’ll get you tea.” She spoke and stepped away.
Theo sat down on the couch patiently. Visions of Eliza’s torture rushed through his mind, he shook his head. He had to save her, she was the key to finding Liane, he knew she would find the princess...without his captain he was lost...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 6, 2018 2:16:36 GMT -5
Chaos. Burning hot flames licking along the damaged buildings. Roofs collapsed in, entire rooms smashed in - across an entire city. Along the streets - bodies on top of bodies. Blood. A thick inch covering the entire city.
A thick scaled boot step down - a splatter of the red substance covering the silver of the boot. Beads of blood that splashed into the air stopped at the peak of the leap - and then slowly began to float upward. Every where in the air... pearls of blood, spinning towards the sky very slowly...
A woman with long ashen hair, a terrifying uniform to match her evil deeds. She held her hand forward - a man lifted into the air, gripping his own throat as his feet dangled. “I have come for you” she spoke in a low cold voice.
The man cried out “And yet you had to kill all these people to get to me?! You’re a monster! Demon-Mage!!!” He cried out. “Go ahead, end me!” He coughed forward a bit of blood. His entire body was being squeezed from the inside out, his blood cells bursting in his body.
“So quickly?” She grinned “I think not...” She took another step in the stream of blood. She looked about the ruins of the city... Valemoon, a rather popular city - which would be known today as a ruins. Destroyed by the Demon-Mage, the Manslayer of Genevia... Suddenly the woman reached forward and grasped his tongue and yanked it from his mouth. It ripped outward, a long limp piece of meat, and she tossed it to the ground. “You will choke on your own blood now” she grinned and squeezed her fist.
Suddenly he began to writhe, coughing up blood as it practically spilled from his lips. He choked - gurgling, his breaths becoming fill with blood. He managed to stay alive for a little longer - before drowning... Once dead his body fell, splashing into the pools. A collection of round balls of blood - float upward with the rest. The droplets then began to fall - a rain of blood over the ruins. The woman smiled then... Red streams covering her face as this blood fell from the sky....
Rey sat upward quickly from her dream - her breathing quickened... eyes full of tears. Of her. Her past. The past that she blocked out, but she was cursed with reliving every time she closed her eyes.
She brought a hand to her head and she gripped her forehead. Slowly she brought her eyes to a woman who had made her way over. An old woman. “You are awake...” She smiled and bowed her head.
Then she remembered. Rey snapped her head to the woman - “Damnit - Eliza, where is she, do you know? How... did you find me!?” She went to scramble forward but her arm ached out.
“Relax... There is not much that can be done... Sit back, take this...” The old woman handed her a ball of packed herbs. Rey looked down and then let out a sigh, she accepted the bit and chewed on it.
“Theo - he found you, Eliza was gone. The.. King has her now...” She lowered her head.
“No...” She grit her teeth. “He will kill her...” Rey whispered.
“He will use her first...” The old woman spoke softly - it was then that he door opened, Theo walking back in.
Rey watched Theo sit down - defeated. “What happened?” Rey spoke, she managed to get up from the bedside and make her way to the couch.
Theo glanced to her “You are awake, well I see..” He smiled weakly. It was then that he told her of Eliza - how she was being held captive, tortured. “To awaken... the Divine within her - they say?”
Rey sat back. “They believe she is Divine?” She slowly let out a deep breath. “We must save her...” She stood.
“We can’t. I can’t. I can’t go up against...” His eyes brimmed with tears.
Rey grit her teeth - “You need to get back into the castle. I will create a... diversion... You have to trust me... The castle will be in a state of chaos, and you can get her out of there - but you have to come with us. We need the help...” She looked to him.
“W-what are you going to do?” He questioned, eyes wide.
“Leave that to me...It’ll be flashy, big, but I’ll do my best not to hurt anyone...We must act now. Lets go.” Rey grasped his arm.
They mounted his horse - riding back to the Kingdom with speed. As they came upon the castle - Rey dismounted. “Go... you will know when it is time...”Where are they keeping her?” She questioned. Theo explained the room... the location of it in the castle.
“Okay.. Go..” Rey stood for a long moment and drew in a deep breath. She allowed him time to enter the Castle, to get to the room... She held her hand out - her staff In her grasp. She drew in a breath through her nose - and release it slowly. A great bit of magic stirring in her chest...
Slowly her body lifted from the ground, floating high into the sky, until she peered down to the castle. Clouds covered the sky - thick black clouds, stirring with thunder. Wind began to whip swiftly, trees bending to its power. From a bolt of lightning - a huge ball of fire formed. It shot downward and landed on the castle, breaking a huge chunk of the castle inward. The entire earth shook to the impact... Then several smaller astroid like balls came flying downward, busting through glass windows, landing in the ground...
As she attacked - guards came clattering outside, only to be barreled down by the balls of fire. Rey gripped her staff tighter and then shifted her hands forward - sending a ball against the side of the castle. The room that Eliza was in. The wall caved inward, allowing them an exit. By now the entire castle was in flame, people screaming - running. This was not nearly the extent of her old abilities, this was a weaker version - she tried dearly to keep from harming them...
Suddenly an arrow flew towards her. He reached her hand out and it stopped mid air - she squeezed her hand into a fist and it broke in half, falling to the ground. The archer that shot it - stared to her in disbelief - and ran quickly.
She spied the King then - standing on his balcony, in disbelief that his castle was on fire - attacked from nearly every angle.
“Terror King Victor - “ A deep voice shout over the castle. “You have doomed yourself! Know that I am coming for you!” A blast shot forward, sending him backward into his room. The two glass doors clattered and shattered. She glanced down then to see a horse dashing from the fire swiftly - two bodies. Theo.. Eliza...
Just as the two escaped - a severe wave of rain came down upon the castle, dousing the fires that she started. The rain so thick that one wouldn’t be able to even see their own hand from their body... Though the rain did not touch Theo and Eliza, actually as they ran - it seem to part just on their location, as they ran forward through the storm - untouched by the water.
A blue earthen horse formed near them, running next to them as they escaped. Rey turned then, and flew quickly forward. She landed on the ground and ran forward - she held her hand forward and shot to her mount, her legs slipping over it easily. They continued to run through the rain...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Oct 6, 2018 4:53:15 GMT -5
Theo glanced to Rey as he rushed off toward the castle. His pulse pounded as he walked inside. He brushed a bead of sweat from his brow as he walked toward where Eliza was being held.
“Captain.” Deka spoke as he stepped from the room.
Theo nodded to him, “Yes Deka?” He asked, he hoped his nervousness couldn’t be seen on his face.
“I need you to watch over our captive for the evening.” He grinned, “Shouldn’t be too hard.” He held up the key. “She was uncooperative today as well...where were you?”
“The king had me on other business.” Theo stared into his eyes as he took the key. “Good night, Deka.” He stepped into the room. Theo’s eyes fell on Eliza and he instantly looked away, tears welled in his eyes. He took in a few deep breaths. It was then that the first rumble of the attack happened. He heard the clattering of armor as knights rushed down the hallways. Theo stepped forward as the ground beneath him shook. He looked over Eliza, “I'm sorry...” He breathed, “I shouldn’t have left...” Her body had deep cuts from blades and lashings. Bruises from being beaten...
He carefully unlocked the shackles, “I will keep you safe, I won’t let this happen again.” He watched as her brows quivered in her sleep. What had they given her now? He sighed softly as he pulled her into his arms. It was in that moment that the wall was blasted away. Theo turned and rushed through the rubble. He whistled as he ran and soon enough his horse trotted to his side. Theo lifted Eliza up and lay her over the saddle before he climbed on. He adjusted her and hugged her into his chest. He clicked his tongue then and the horse took off with speed. No one saw him. He escaped without one arrow flying his way, Rey was right she did create quite the distraction. As the rain began to fall Theo braced himself for the water to splash down upon them, but...it didn’t. He looked to the water in awe as it parted around them. He held Eliza closer as her body bobbed slightly. “Hang in there.” He whispered.
Theo glanced over as the magical horse rose from the ground near them and moments later Rey was upon its back. He nodded to her and moved his eyes back forward. They rode all the way to Calista’s home hidden in the forest. Theo slipped from his horse’s back and cradled Eliza into his arms again. Blood soaked the front of his tunic from her back being pressed against him. Before he could make it to the door Calista had opened it. “Gods...” She spoke as she looked over Eliza. “I pray we were not too late.” She spoke. “Come, come.” She ushered them inside.
Calista pointed to the bed and moved about quickly. She gathered herbs and plants. She pulled books from the shelves, she began cooking in her large kettle upon the wood stove. She took a small ball of herbs and lifted Eliza’s head by sitting beneath her. Calista mashed the ball into water and swirled it around. “Alright dear.” She spoke as she held the glass to her lips. She tilted it and slowly poured it into Eliza’s mouth. She coughed and choked and some of it came out from the sides of her mouth, but she swallowed most of it.
Calista then moved back to the pot and stirred in a few more items, a white glow came from the pot as she worked. Her magic fueled her remedies. Her eyes glowed a gentle white as she worked. She infused everything with her magic. Calista then moved and began cleaning the wounds that lined Eliza’s body. She took water and cloth and dabbed away the blood before she began stitching her wounds back together.
Theo paced his arms crossed. “What the hell do they think this is going to do anyway?!” He snapped his voice full of anger. “King Leo must be rolling in his grave!” He growled. “He would never allow such brutality...”
Calista looked up her eyes watched him a long moment. “Theo, if you must fuel your anger please do so outside. Such anger is not welcome within my home, it will reduce my efforts in healing Eliza.” Her voice was calm as she watched him.
Theo took in a deep breath which he let out slowly. “I apologize Calista.” He bowed his head. “How is she?” He asked softly.
“We will know once she wakes.” Calista responded quickly as she lifted Eliza’s head again. She’d pulled the pot of cooled medicine from the fire. She poured it into a glass and carefully began pouring it into Eliza’s mouth. She gagged and coughed again. “There, there, it’s alright.” Calista soothed as she slowly administered the drink.
Calista then covered Eliza’s body in a warm blanket that was incredibly soft. She brushed her hair from her face and sighed softly. “She endured a lot in such a small amount of time.” She shook her head. “You said the man’s name is Deka?” She questioned as she looked to Theo.
Theo nodded, “Yes, that is his name. He’s acting as Victor’s right hand...” He shook his head then. “I’ve never seen such hatred come from a man...he doesn’t care what happens to the world around him.”
Calista took in a deep breath. “Deka has always been that way, even in the days of the war.” She stoked the fire. “Hellbent on ruling everything, he’s moved from weak king to weak king. Deka has been the start of many wars. He was the start to the hunt of the Divine nearly 100 years ago.” She stirred a pot that she’d tossed a few things into. “He is as old as I, though, he hasn’t changed a bit over the years.” She spoke as she moved and grabbed three wooden bowls. She scooped the liquid into the bowls. “Here, enjoy.” She gave a gentle smile. “Mushroom soup.” She nodded as she offered it to Rey. “It’ll keep you strong, dear. You need that to fully heal that arm of yours.” She nodded as she sat down and sipped on her own soup.
**
Frightened breathing filled Eliza’s ears. The air was cold. “We can’t stay here...we can’t stay here any longer...what do we do?” A woman’s voice cried.
Eliza stood in the shadows, a wispy version of herself. She looked down to her ghostly appearance. Her eyes then moved to a woman that held much of her features, she held a baby in her arms that cooed and reached up toward her.
“Ira...” A man stood, he had a short beard that was well kept. His eyes were ocean blue, just like Eliza. He stepped forward and kissed the woman’s forehead. “We have to run.” He spoke softly. “I will go first, to distract them, you need to take Eliza to the castle...she’s too young, they’ll find us...you know how it must be.”
The woman had tears streaming down her cheeks, “I...I know...” She whispered. “Nathan...” She looked up to him a long moment. “You’ll meet me at Nanthier?”
He wrapped his arms around her and held her close as he looked down to their child. “Yes, and when it is safe we will come and get our daughter.”
Eliza took in quick breaths as the front door was knocked down. Men in black stormed the room. The same red marking on their right glove. Eliza rushed after her mother. She followed her through the night as she ran from the men fleeing to the castle. She watched as she was given over to the king...as he took her into his arms and vowed to protect her...
**
Eliza let out a scream and sat up quickly. She toppled from the bed. She clutched onto the blanket as she pulled her knees to her chest.
“Eliza.” Theo rushed from the back room to her side. “Hey...” He gently touched her shoulder.
Eliza jumped her eyes wide. She stared to him, her pulse racing. “Where am I?” She asked, her body trembled.
“You’re safe.” Theo spoke as he searched her eyes.
“Haunted by a past you never knew?” Calista spoke as she stepped into the room. She scooped a bowl of soup and offered it forward. “Eat dear, you’ll need your strength.”
Eliza took the bowl, her brows quivered. She turned her head quickly, “Am I imagining this...?” She breathed as she watched shadows crawl along the walls. She leaped up as one rushed toward her she toppled over the bed and her bowl of soup flew up into the air.
Calista reached up and snatched the bowl. She took in a deep breath. “What is it you’re seeing dear?” She asked as she helped her to her feet.
Eliza took a few steps back, Calista’s face was contorted into that of a monster with red eyes. Her chest heaved. “I...” She stepped back again, her back pressed against the wall now. The floor in front of her rippled and swirled.
Calista watched her. “It’s just a hallucination.” She spoke softly. “It’s something they gave you.”
“They?” Eliza looked up, she stared at Calista now blood ran from her eyes. She grit her teeth. “Why....?” She whimpered as she slid to the floor. She tensed as another shadow rushed her, she blocked but nothing hit her.
Calista took in a deep breath. “The Shadow Sect, Deka and his men...it’s okay, Eliza, just breathe.” She moved to her herbs and began thumbing through them. “I’m not sure I have the herb she needs...” She muttered. “Hagard Root...” She spoke as she moved the bottles around. She sighed softly as she pulled an empty jar forward. Only a pinch of the root was left in it. She grabbed a few more things and tossed them into the water, stirring as she added in items.
Eliza was backed into the corner, tears streaming down her cheeks. “What’s wrong with her?” Theo asked, his brows crunched together. “What did they do?”
Calista looked to him, “They were doing everything they could to try to break her. Let’s hope they didn’t.” She nodded toward Eliza. “Hold her still, she’s not going to let me give this to her.”
Theo bit his lip slightly as he stepped toward Eliza. “Okay...” He leaned toward her.
Eliza cried out and fought with him. Theo wrapped his arms around her and lifted her up.
Calista stepped forward, she’d drawn the mixture into a syringe. She gripped onto Eliza’s arm and injected it swiftly. She then took a step back as she watched Eliza loosen slightly. “Better?” She asked.
Eliza took in quick breaths, “What...is going on?” She nearly whimpered.
Calista let out a relieved breath. “She’ll need more of the Hagard Root...this is only going to last a few hours.”
Theo grit his teeth slightly. “Where do we get it?”
“To the north, at least you’re headed that way.” She spoke, “It’ll be on the side of high mountain.”
Eliza held her hand to her head which throbbed. She looked to the bandages on her arms. Everything came rushing back to her. The knives that sliced into her skin. The sound of the bat beating against her. She leaned back, Theo wrapped his arms around her to steady her. Tears welled in her eyes. “What...did they want from me?” She cried.
Calista watched her a moment. “They believe you to be a Divine.” She tilted her head slightly. “The Seers will know.” She nodded.
“A Divine?” Eliza questioned. “They are all extinct...” She drew her brows together thinking of her strange dream.
Calista reached into a trunk and pulled out a neatly folded set of clothing. “That’s what the Divine want everyone to believe.” She smiled.
Eliza looked to the clothing, “Th-thank you...” She spoke softly. “The princess?” She questioned and looked to Theo.
He shook his head. “We still haven’t found her...” He spoke softly.
Eliza lowered her eyes slightly. “I see...” She spoke as Calista led her away. “Rey?” She asked.
“Sleeping.” Theo responded.
Eliza let out a relieved breath. “Good...” She nodded as she stepped into the bathroom. She pulled on the clothing and looked over her bruised features. She couldn’t remember all of it. But the bits and pieces she remembered were terrifying.
She slipped on the pants and then she pulled on the tunic. The tunic was a dark blue color and the pants were black. Nothing special about them. Though, Calista had included a few pieces of armor, a few plates for her forearms and her thighs to help protect her in battle. Eliza then pulled on the grey thick cloak that also was in the pile. She then pulled on a pair of boots that came up to her knees that Calista had offered her. She stared into the mirror and brushed her hair from her eyes before she came from the room. She flinched at a shadow that moved and took in a deep breath. “Hagard Root.” She spoke and looked to the old woman.
“Yes.” She nodded as she came to her, “Here.” She gave a gentle smile. “I know it isn’t your sword, but it’ll help you.” She held up an old saber.
“Thank you.” Eliza bowed her head as she took it and attached it to her hip. “Okay...high mountain...the Seers will know where the princess is...” She nodded. She waited on Theo and Rey before she stepped outside. A storm was rumbling in the distance. She blinked a few times, “It’s not real.” She whispered to herself. The hallucinations were beginning to come back...
Eliza climbed onto her horse and soon they were off. She rode down the road for a few hours, the shadows began to crawl along the ground. She grit her teeth. Then suddenly a beast leaped from the trees above the trio. It knocked Eliza from her horse. She was pinned to the ground by a huge mountain lion with red glowing eyes. Eliza took in quick breaths. “It’s not real...” She whimpered as she closed her eyes tightly. She was having a hard time deciphering reality from the hallucinations.
Theo leaped from his horse. A few men rushed forward from the shadows. “Theo!” One called to him. “You traitor!”
Theo took in a breath as he drew his blade. “I am not a traitor for not following the tyrant of a king that took King Leo’s place! We are looking for the princess!” He drew his brows together. “Eliza!” He looked to her as she tumbled along the ground with the beast. It snarled as she rolled about with it, fighting it, she couldn’t get to her blade. She let out a cry as it clamped down over her forearm, the metal armor plate crunched beneath it. She let out a cry as she tried to get the beast away from her.
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