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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 13, 2019 21:53:15 GMT -5
 The bracelets of exile – a strange device created by the Outsiders, meant to imprison people to a barren wasteland of hell and cruelty. An area where Gods walk among men in the form of Avatars, and people are driven to insanity amongst the desert storms or corrupted beasts. It is almost as if every inch of the place is tainted by sin, and has warped the lands and the people. It is very rare to find a being of neutrality, or knowledge… Everyone is savage and cruel. Those that are like quickly band up – and wage war swiftly with the others, all over land and greed. Livable land is scarce, between the sources of water, beasts – and then the others that swarm the lands like infestations. They pledge themselves to the gods, who play them like a sweet fiddle. They thwart the humans into doing their bidding. For each soul, heart, or flesh offered to the temples – the god respond with minor returns, but regardless, it is enough to fuel the hearts of the raged. These people – thrown out due to their sins, or maybe even for what they didn’t do, grow mad swiftly and sink into the greed of humanity. Quickly everyone learns it is to kill, or be killed, eat or be eaten. A world where absolutely everything against you, and death is a given. The question is – when will it come for you? *** Not many grew up in the Exiled Lands, there were select few, but often they were sacrificed early. Though, despite the world being full of corrupted – there were small candle lights of good, and hope. The people who were some what civilized, the people who were wronged. Eventually they banned together, in the neutral city of Sepermaru, and those of the likelihood often lived near, in the far west of the Savannah. The only water source was a small stretch of Oasis, which was shared by just a few. This was the only place of some kind of organization… Simply because the water source was used a means of control… She lived not far from this city, as to keep herself close to the good trades, the trek to the city was only an hour, or so, if you don’t get into a brawl with bandits or tigers along the way. Throughout all the Exiled Lands – she is known by Raine the Huntress, a fierce sword for hire and bounty hunter – that many run from. She was raised by a legendary Hunter – Percy the Fierce, who had passed not long ago… “I have a contract for you, Raine” A woman spoke, she wore a few cloths over her body, she was heavily tanned – and had a shaved head. “Ralinda” Raine stepped forward and held her hand forward. The woman placed a parchment into her hand and nodded. “Thanks, I’ll take a look” “Should be easy for you, the man there – the Spear, he’s been attacking small villages and plundering their goods. He is ballsy, and stupid – make him pay, hm?” she smiled then and lifted a basket full of apples and goods, she was the Inn keeper at the local Inn and Bar. “Thanks…” Raine opened the parchment and read over the scribbled writing – there was a sketch of the man, she had seen him before… Last seen – near the Pit of Undead. She sighed, it would be a bit of a walk, but doable. She made her way out of the inn and looked over. A huge white tiger was curled up, waiting on her to exit. He lifted his head and gave a slight growl. Then he stood and gave a long stretch before following right behind her heels. No one gave him much of a second though, he was a normal occurrence – only when following behind Raine, though. Otherwise people would run for the hills before a white tiger. “We’re hunting ourselves a man of Yog, my love” Raine looked down to the tiger, who peered up to her . “Should be a feast for you” she winked and then laughed slightly. “Come, we’ll head home and prepare” she picked up her pace into a jog and began along the dried red sand of the savannah, headed north to her small home. *** “Gore, you ready?” She questioned, standing outside the home. From around back came the tiger, who had finished cleaning himself, he gave a yawn and came to her side. She stood in her full garb – a hardened leather vest that met with a pair of leather pants. There we belts crossing her hips and thighs – each holding a weapon.. two daggers on her thighs, a sword on her waist. Over her leather pants was a collection of layers that came over her like a battle skirt. Over her shoulders was a long haired wolf cape, that fell in tatters at the back of her knees. Against her back was a long pike, which was wrapped in leather and had several feathers and bones hanging from it. Her weapon of choice, aside from a standard axe or sword. Her hands moved up to her hair, which was pulled back – several braids along the sides of her hair came to a final mass braid, that fell over her right shoulder… Her body was toned – fit and powerful, even men would tremble to her sight. “Come on now” she urged forward. She traversed across the Savanah, and over a rocky ridge – would lead downward into the thick desert. Though she knew the man she was looking for would likely be in the Yog City near the eastern Stream, not far off from the pit… “You smell that?” she questioned to her Tiger. “The smell of burning flesh...” she shuddered. The followers of Yog ate the flesh of man, and offered it to their God of Hell. Though – the pale blue sky suddenly turned dark, with speed. Thick clouds covered the area and a sudden downpour came from the skies. “The hell?” Raine quickly called out. She rushed forward across the land, which quickly became muddy and sloshed from the rain. She had never seen this before – Rain in the desert? She pulled her brows together. Thunder filled the air, lightning struck down and lit a tree ablaze. Raine rushed towards a huge rock foundation, there was a bit of the red stone that jut outward, creating a bit of over hang, a bit of shelter. She stood under it, Gore rubbed against her and laid down briefly, eyes watching out over the rain. It pelted sideways, they still were being hit by it, despite trying to hid amongst the rocky coves. She knelt down and placed a hand upon Gore’s head, finger nails scratching his fur slightly as she watched with him. “Wonder what kind of weird Godly shit they’re up to?” she could see the village bustling – people running about… |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 13, 2019 23:09:09 GMT -5
The Gods. Powerful beings that are worshiped by humans. Yet, the lesser Gods, the Archangels...are lost in translation. Hidden away from the sights of humans, intervening when need be to right a Gods evils or to correct a path. The Archangels were the servants of the Gods. Some would be considered Demons in other texts. Though, all of the angels were at some point...just that, angels of the heavens. Wars are begun and ended by these beings. Even if humans themselves were unable to see it. Angels played a part in many things, even the formation of the exiled lands. Ruled beneath the 5 Gods…. A woman stood over a body of a fallen human. Her hair was a long flowing beautiful blonde. Her eyes were an icy, striking blue that would steal the air of anyone she gazed upon. Her skin was fair, smooth and unblemished by battle. She knelt down, the metal of her armor pressed into the cool earth. She wore armored boots that reached up to her knees, a beautiful winged piece wrapped around the outside of her thighs and glistened in the diminishing sunlight. Black tights ran up her legs to her hips where a beautiful sword rest, sheathed away. The sheath was golden and white with inlays of feathers and wings as well. The guard of her blade was that of wings that curved to protect the hands of the dueler. She wore a red sash around her hips over top of a steel grey leather armor that curved about her body. Even her gauntlets that were crafted of some of the finest steel held wings upon the back. But the most notable feature of this woman that knelt over the dying human...she had two beautiful huge white wings that rest easily behind her back and a glowing golden halo above her head. “You will walk among the gods.” She spoke her voice soft, sweet. It was almost harmonious over the silence of war. “You will be welcomed.” She reached her hand forward, her palm pressed against the man’s forehead. “You fought well.” She spoke as a white light came from her hand. The man’s shaken painful breaths ceased and his body relaxed. The woman stood slowly, her eyes looked to the battlefield that she stood upon. Her eyes seemed sad as she looked over the land that was littered and stained red from battle. A war brought on by the gods, entertainment at its best. ** “Remiael.” A voice spoke. A man that wore white robes, beautiful white wings rest behind his back. “You are wanted in the great hall.” The woman turned, her eyes soft. She stood before a great waterfall that cascaded down into a beautiful pure blue lake. “In the great hall? Elijah...” She drew her brows together in confusion as she questioned. “Come on, we can’t keep them waiting.” The man gave a gentle smile as he grasped her arm at the bicep. Remiael tugged gently against him and pulled from his grip. “There is not a council meeting today, Elijah.” The man paused as he looked to her, “I was told to bring you to the hall, it’s very important.” He gave a nod. The woman took in a breath, a soft smile curved up her lips as she gave a nod. She followed him through the beautiful city. The city of the gods. The buildings were large and glistening. The sun shone over the city as if the light did not reach anywhere else. The plants were plentiful and a beautiful lush green. They walked along the cobble and into a large building where as soon as Remiael stepped into the building both of her arms were grasped by two other angels. She let out a gasp as she pulled against them. “What is this?” She questioned quickly as they pulled her forward harshly. “Let me go!” She cried. Her eyes began to glow as power surged within her. She ripped her arm from one of the angels and brought her hand up, striking him with her elbow harshly. She then spun and kicked her heel into the abdomen of the other man. She rolled forward her eyes fearful. “Elijah.” She breathed as her wrists were caught by the man, a glowing rope wrapped around her wrists. “Elijah what is this?….What’s going on?” Her breaths shuddered. But she knew. For why, she wasn’t certain. But she knew if she was called to the great hall...there were only a few options for her. Elijah glanced to the two angels she’d knocked down as they gathered themselves. “Come, Remiael, we shall pass judgement.” He turned as the men grabbed her again. Remiael fought against them, though her muscles had weakened from the rope that was tied around her wrists. Her feet drug along the ground as she was brought into a large rounded room. She was forced to her knees in the center of the room, tears had already begun to stream down her cheeks. “What...have I done?” She choked out. Elijah stepped forward and knelt before her, his eyes stared into hers. “Question not what you have done, Archangel. But what you have yet to do.” His word were cryptic. Pain hid behind his eyes. “The oracle has spoken. We most comply.” He then gripped her shoulders and pushed her down onto her stomach. She lay upon her bound hands, sobs came over her lips. “You will not remember your time as an Archangel. You will not remember any of this.” He began speaking in another language, a chant of sorts that the other angels within the room chimed in upon. The dark chanting caused shivers to run down Remiael’s spin. She was too weak to fight with the magical rope around her wrists. What did she do to deserve this? What did Elijah mean? A dagger was handed forward to Elijah. He pulled the red blade from the black sheath as he continued chanting. His hand brushed against the beautiful white feathers of her back. Then in a slashing motion he began to cut the wings from her back. Remiael screamed in agony with each hack. Her body jolted until ultimately her world faded into shadows… “You will not remember any of this, Remiael. I’m sorry, but this had to be done. I had no choice.” Elijah’s voice whispered into her ear before she felt the chill of air rushing around her. ** Thunder clapped and lightning raced across the sky causing Remiael’s eyes to open. She lay within the desert. Bloody and weak. She stood to her feet and staggered, her breathing heavy. She stared around, frightened as she fell forward into a puddle of red mud. It splashed over her beautiful armor as she knelt on her hands and knees. Her breathing was ragged, her vision tunneled. She rolled onto her back as the rain cascaded down upon her, licking the blood from her body. “Yog, has given us an offering.” “An offering? This one?” Remiael felt a foot press against her side, pushing her over more. A man knelt down before her, “If we take her to Arne he will reward us!” A man dressed in the skins of a bear giggled happily. “Come here pretty pet.” He reached down and grasped upon her wrist and easily looped her up over his shoulder. He was a large muscular build. “No...w-wait...” Remiael breathed. “The gift of Yog speaks!” Another man chuckled as he grabbed her hair harshly. He lifted her head and gazed into her eyes. “An what might be your name?” His voice was rough. He tugged at her hair a bit more to only ilicit a cry of pain. “Do you not understand?” He growled. “I...” Remiael’s voice was small. “My name?” She questioned, her expression filled with pain as he shoved her head away. “Are you sure Yog offered us this one?” He snickered. “Look at the skies!” The other called. “Isn’t this proof enough? Not a soul in miles, yet it rains where she was found.” He spun in circles as he danced ahead in the rain. “Arne will know what to do with her.” ** “Wake up.” Icy cold water splashed across her face. Remiael woke, gasping for air. Her icy blue eyes were wide as she struggled against her bound wrists. A man stood above her. His eyes were lined in black pain that gave him a dark devilish look. His hair was cut short and he had a beard upon his chin. He held a dagger to her throat. “What has Yog sent you for girl?” He questioned, his eyes dark. Remiael winced as he pressed the sharp blade to her neck. She shut her eyes tightly. “I...do not know...” She breathed. The man tilted his head and allowed a scoff over his lips. “What good are you if you do not bare the signs of Yog? He must have offered you as a blessing.” “Blessing?” Remiael questioned, her voice trembled, she could feel a bit of blood trickle down the side of her neck. He brought the blade from her neck and licked the blood from it, a devious smile crossing over his expression. “Yes. A true blessing. The blood in your veins is sweet.” He ran his fingertips along her jaw then, which caused her to tremble. “You’ll make a worthy sacrifice to Yog. A worthy one indeed. You will keep us strong, offer us your blessing, girl.” He stood then. Remiael took in quick breaths. “Wh-what do you plan to do?” She struggled against the ropes. Arne chuckled as he turned, “Don’t worry, girl.” He knelt down and gazed into her eyes. “I’ll make it quick.” He grinned and let out a snicker. ** Several days passed. The rains came each day, only around the village. Remiael had endured the leader whom she now knew as Arne taking her blood. There was a ritual behind this. He took some each day, and each day she felt weak and dizzy from it. She was offered food sparingly, vegetables and a few grains. Nothing more. Just enough to keep her alive. On the 6th day Remiael opened her eyes to the door swinging open. “We’ve gathered enough now, girl. We’ve performed the rituals day and night to welcome these rains, to welcome our blessing from Yog and to offer you to him.” Arne knelt before her. “I’m going to miss your...company.” He snickered darkly as he ran his fingertips down the side of her cheek. She couldn’t defend herself. Arne smirked as he lifted her up then by her bicep. Remiael pulled against him, she cried out only for him to toss her over his shoulder. “Stop this! Please!” She whimpered as she was carried through the city. She was strung up, her wrists tied above her head, her body hung against a pole that was placed above tinder, ready to light. Remiael whimpered as she watched the men of the village march others forward. “Yog! Take these as offerings, we thank you for this blessing!” Arne spoke as he slit the throat of a man and bled him into a goblet. He then began to slice the flesh from him, piece by piece cooking it over the fire. “Stop this! Stop! No! Please!” Remiael whimpered as she thrashed against the ropes that held her. Her ankles and wrists began to bleed from her struggling. Arne stood a smirk upon his lips as he walked up to her. He cupped her chin and gazed into her eyes. “You should be thankful, it is an honor to be a sacrifice.” He spoke. “Now, if you’ll excuse me.” He turned and stepped to the next captive, a young boy. The boy was sobbing as he was forced forward into the hands of Arne. “No!” Remiael thrashed, “He’s a child!” She whimpered as tears streamed down her cheeks. With each cry thunder rumbled. It was sacrifice after sacrifice. The men and women of the village passed around the golden goblet of blood and drank happily from it. Singing and dancing and they cherished this moment. Remiael cried out and whimpered as she tried to free herself. Several members of the city came to her, thanking her, thanking Yog. After over an hour of hanging from the ropes her arms were cold, her sobs softer, her throat ripped from screaming. Arne stepped to her, a smirk upon his lips. “Now.” He spoke as he cupped her cheek. “Now we perform the ritual.” He stepped from her in preparation. The people played music and danced, yelling and carrying on. It seemed so normal. So happy. Yet death was all around her. She looked to the mutilated bodies that lay over the fire. A child grasped onto the arm of one of the sacrificed and munched upon it happily. This...was normal for these people. These animals… “Help….please...” Remiael pleaded. “Please help me...please stop this...” She whimpered softly. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 0:12:40 GMT -5
Raine looked to the skies as it thundered harder and harder. The village was bustling – they were making sacrifices – she could smell it. She grit her teeth – no religion made her more disgusted than The Yogites – they were cruel and vicious…
She grit her teeth and shook her head – she had been sitting in this rain for nearly an hour and it wasn’t letting up. Never in her years had she heard of this. It was so bad, the desert had no idea what to do with the rain – it caked thick and the dunes were shedding over, until the land turned flat, a wash of mud and water.
“Let’s just get his head and go, hm?” She looked to Gore, who stared to her with idle eyes. She chuckled and then pulled her pike. She swiftly ran through the rain and came upon the spiked walls of the village. She stepped to the gates and entered, though no one seemed to have noticed her. Not while they were midst of their celebrations.
She easily stepped up to the statue – where a huge bowl rest before, full of blood and cooked skin. Two huge bonfires were on each side – where they roasted the flesh. To the right were several pikes – one body was tied up against it, completely to the bone, they were carving off bits and pieces and tossing it into the fire, or stabbing it onto sticks to roast. To the left was a woman – tied up, shouting in fear. She grit her teeth – just as she watched a young boy slain and his skin ripped from his body.
They pulled it from his body as easily as the flesh from a rabbit, slinking off with ease and roasted swiftly. She grit her teeth and pulled her pike “Arne” she called out in a loud voice. She tossed down the parchment “Your head is a pretty penny, so I guess you know why I’m here, hm?” she pushed past the people.
They all had their weapons drawn – staring to her. Arne turned, a heart in his hand. He grinned and squeezed it. “You’re just in time for our precious angel here to shred before the fires” he looked to the girl, his teeth bearing. They were sharpened to a point – to rip and tear flesh…
Gore stepped up behind her and growled deeply, his claws pushing into the sand – ready to attack upon her command.
“You have quite the balls, Huntress” Arne held his knife in his hand. “You attack me – and this entire village will attack you...” he looked to the woman on the pike, a finger rolled off her stomach. “No doubt you could kill me, I’ve heard much of your skills, but honestly… 1 woman and a tiger, versus...hmm...” Arne turned then and looked to his people.
Suddenly there was blood splatter. Raine had thrust forward and her pike stabbed into his chest. His ribs cracked and his lungs collapsed. Blood spit from his lips as he gargled on his own blood… His hand reached forward, touching to the tip of her spear which pushed through his chest. She then yanked her spear back, his body crumbling forward. “Let your god have him” she turned to the people – who gripped their blades.
She stepped forward, no one moved… not yet. She then drew her sword and easily sliced his head from his shoulders. “I’ve never been one for long monologues...” she kicked his body toward the flames. Suddenly the people roared up – they scrambled forward and grabbed the body.
“You must perform the ritual!” one of the men shouted. “You cannot disgrace Yog by such a terrible offering!!” The people crazed – worried their god would strike them.
“You people...” She shook her head. She had just killed their leader – and all they cared about was the way his body was tended to. They didn’t attack, or anything. These people were crazed.
Raine glanced to the woman and reached forward – with her blade she sliced the woman down. Once the woman fell – Raine placed her sword into her hand. “Hope you know how to use this” she grinned then. It was then that the village came to – the body was handled, it was cut properly and was cooking over the flames.
“You will pay for interrupting the ceremony!” One of the men shouted. Suddenly they all came towards her. Raine chuckled an gripped her spear – she thrust it forward and stabbed into the chest of one man, then she spun and kicked another. With a hand she gripped one’s axe and pulled it from their hands – easily slamming the axe into the skull of her attacker. She twisted then and her pike pulled from once chest – and slammed into another.
Gore rushed forward and bit into the neck of an attacker, slinging the body to the side, he then clawed his attacker, slashing them across the chest – turning swiftly, as if he could tell the next attack, and biting down into the leg of one man. Gore dragged the man through the village and tossed him onto the fire.
Raine pulled her dagger and stabbed into the shoulder of a man – kicking him away, then flipping the blade to slice at the stomach of another – his guts splashing over the ground. She turned and pulled her spear and easily stabbed forward at three men, her arms full of power and rage.
Soon enough every man lay on the streets of the village, the woman stood, holding their children. “I would kill you all.. but I am not that kind of hunter” she gathered the head of Arne. The rain had not let up, it actually threatened to snuff the bonfires, despite the great heat they gave off.
Raine turned to the woman who she had saved - “You are weak...” she stepped over and grasped the woman. “Come with me” she spoke, her eyes looking to her. This woman – she was fatigued, her skin was pale… and then she collapsed into Raine’s arms. She looked to Gore, who had made his way to her. Raine shifted the woman and placed her onto Gore’s back, easily tying her down to him, so that he could carry her.
“Thanks buddy...” she whispered. The rain then stopped…. The clouds clearing out and the hot sun beamed back down upon them. The waters began to steam – a hot humid sauna… Raine sighed and took a long drink from her water skin, and then she held it upside down – a stream of cool water poured outward. Gore stretched his tongue forward and caught most of it, accepting the last of her water…
The hike home wasn’t terrible, though a few times her boots were caught in the mud. They made it back home before the sun set. She was lucky her hit wasn’t across the way and into the rain forests to the east, other wise the trip wouldn’t be so short…
Arrived infront of her wooden home, hand build by her and her old master… A Fountain made of beautiful stone – rest before her home. It was of a woman, holding a bucket, which water trickled from. A gift, from a friend of hers, after saving their entire family… Gore stepped over and leaned down as Raine untied the woman.
She filled her water skin and took a long swig, Gore was already tapping into the water himself. She then looked to the woman, now sprawled over the ground… She stepped over and turned the water skin upside down once more – water flowing down and landing onto the woman’s chest and face. “Have you rested enough?” she spoke, dipping her water skin once more to fill it. Her eyes glanced to Gore – who was already under his awning, paws crossed and head down… Her eyes looked back to the woman, waiting for her to stir… She sighed then “Old cold huh?” She questioned.
Raine reached under the woman and lifted her, carrying her easily into the house. “What some garb you have on...” she muttered to herself, and set her on the bed. She then sighed and made her way to the kitchen, where she pulled some salted venison and slapped it onto the stove. She lit the wood below and heat up a pan, where she prepped 3 healthy steaks of venison…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 0:56:40 GMT -5
Remiael pulled against the ropes as Arne had stepped back to her. “Don’t do this….please...” She begged, tears rolled over her cheeks. Though, as his hand cupped her cheek an interruption came into play. Her icy eyes looked to the woman, adorned in a wolf’s pelt. She looked weathered and experienced in fighting. Though, she did not appear devilish like the men here in this village. The angel gasped as the woman stabbed forward. Her eyes widened as the man’s head was lobbed off before her. Then suddenly she was cut down. She fell to her knees and shakily stood, Remiael looked to the woman just before the blade was thrust into her hands. Hope you know how to use this.
The parting words before all hell broke loose. The angel lifted her eyes, her fingers trembled over the blade. “The blessing! Get her!” A man rushed toward her.
Something clicked then. Remiael dodged him and with a swift motion her blade slung to the side and caught his back slicing into him easily. She let out a breath as her eyes looked to the red blood that now soaked the sword that she held onto. Though she didn’t have much time to let the death sink in before arms wrapped around her and pinned her arms to her sides, the sword clattered to the ground. Remiael let out a cry as she struggled against the man. “You are our sacrifice, our blessing, you can not take that from us! Yog will be angry!” The man shoved her toward the pike and swung his axe at her. She ducked and leaned forward, her arms wrapped around his waist. She shoved him back and then she brought her elbow against his jaw before she kneed him in the groin.
Remiael then rushed across the ground she scooped up the sword in just enough time to stab it forward into the chest of another attacker. Her muscles ached. Wraps lined her forearms from where Arne had cut into her over the past 6 days, bleeding her nearly dry. She spun and her blade hacked into the throat of another man, his blood splashed across her face. Her vision was growing foggy. “Help...” She breathed. “Help me...please...” With that it seemed the fighting ended...the sounds of war disappeared. She stepped forward toward the woman whom had cut her down. Her words were muddy and lost as her body fell limply forward, the sword once again fell to the ground, blood dripped from the blade.
**
“Remiael!” A voice called. “Look out!”
Remiael was locked in blades with a demon, her eyes gazed into the black pits that dared to take her soul. He held a sword locked with her own. Her eyes glanced to the side as the warning reached her ears. In a swift motion she withdrew her sword and ducked forward. A splatter of blood sloshed over her back as the demon she had been in a quarrel with was chopped in two by his own. Remiael quickly dodged to the side and she brought her sword up to the hilt in the demon’s chest. A bright white light shone from his eyes as her blade pulse a beautiful blue color. Then suddenly he burst into ashes. “Elijah!” She called as she sprinted forward. Her wings pushed her forward quickly, lifting her feet from the ground as she slashed into a demon that aimed to attack the other Archangel.
Remiael twisted the blade, severing the spine of the demon before she kicked the body from the blade and his own body turned to ashes. She looked up, her chest rising and falling quickly.
“Remi...” Elijah turned, his eyes soft. He stepped forward. “You’re bleeding.” He brushed blood from her nose.
“It’s nothing, Elijah, I’m okay...” Remiael spoke as she looked to the field of bodies, both angel and demon alike.
“Silencing them like that...” He glanced to the pile of ashes. “How...did you do that?” He questioned softly. He then looked up as more demons crested the hill. “We need to go. Now!” He grasped her hand and pulled her as he beat his wings and took off.
**
Neither the heat of the desert nor the splash of cool water would wake Remiael. Her slumber was deep, her chest rose and fell evenly as she dreamed. Remiael’s eyes fluttered open as she heard the clink of the stove, the crackling of the fire. Her muscles tensed as she remembered. She held her hand to her head and then she looked to the cloth wraps upon her forearms before she tenderly touched the cuts on her wrists from the ropes. She slowly stood, her first step was shaky, but then she found her footing. She stepped forward and found her way to where the huntress that saved her was cooking. The smell caused her mouth to water...she hadn’t had real food in nearly a week. Remiael took in a breath as she watched the woman, was she friend or foe? Had she saved her for her own reasons or was it truly a good deed? “Um...” Her voice was small, it cracked slightly. Her throat was still sore from screaming. “Th-thank you, for what you did...” Her eyes fell upon the spear that Raine had used to kill Arne, her breath caught in her chest slightly. A flash of lightening scattered across the skies followed by a roar of thunder. Remiael swallowed slightly as she looked to the woman, this huntress...she was at a loss for words. She thought back to how she’d fought, it came so easily, even with her fatigue she’d bested the men with the sword in her hands she felt like she belonged. Then the dream...the dream was confusing and a blur. Remiael? Was this her name? She glanced out the window as another flash of lightening scattered over the skies, deep dark clouds loomed above when just moments ago the skies had been perfectly clear.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 1:19:49 GMT -5
Raine lifted her gaze as she heard a rustling from the bed. She lifted her eyes to the window as clouds began to roll in. She squeezed her brows together – normally she knew well before. The trees were rattle, the birds would flutter away early, but no.. this was a surprise. Though, they could use the water… She looked to the woman and tilted her head.
“Sit” she pointed to the two chairs before the large smooth marble stone – which acted as her kitchen counter and dining table at the same time. She never had guests – so the need for a dining table was eliminated. She glanced outside and then flipped the steaks. She easily slipped outside and gathered a few things. She had a small garden out front – she jerked a few carrots from the ground, and waved to Gore.
Gore stretched his paws out and gave a yawn – he then followed behind her. Gore wasn’t banished to the outside – it’s just what he generally preferred. Sometimes he would wander off and hunt – she never worried about him. He always came back. Though, Gore wasn’t a fan of the rain. He would take his place against the wall before the fireplace, resting happily…
Raine walked back into the home and pulled out a plank of oak and chopped up the carrots. She already had a pot of water boiling – rice, and now carrots added. “You slept a while...” she spoke and a strike of thunder cascaded through the savannah. “We’ll take care of your wounds after food, hm?” she spoke.
She turned as she had a break in the cooking. She pulled out two iron mugs and filled them with water, she pushed it forward and nodded. “Those Yogites considered you quite the offering, a very unusual thing...” she sighed softly. “Arne has a love for sweet gentle women, and innocent children. He had been visiting local villages and pillaging them. That is why I showed up… He was a wanted man, but alas. I shall turn his head in for a sweet bundle, tomorrow.” she turned the cup around in her hand.
Along side the cup was a small crack – she set the cup down and sighed. “Life of a bounty hunter In this land is not always the best, I actually make the most money trading pelts, but eh. Theres no excitement in that” she winked. She turned then and stirred the pot, and then poked at the steaks – they were ready. “I end up getting by, buying the tossed out mistakes, like that little cup there” she chuckled. She turned and set a steak on each plate. Though one stake was not seasoned, it was plain – a little undercooked. Two plates she loaded with rice and carrots, and then she snuffed the flame out.
She leaned down and set a plate on the ground – Gore’s steak. She then moved over and sat down at the spare seat. Raine handed the woman a fork and knife. “The name is Raine, by the way. The Huntress, if we want to get titles involved. Bounty Hunter, and sell sword, whatever basically needs to get done… My handsome boy – Gore” she clicked her tongue.
Gore stepped over, his huge paws clicking against the wooden floor. He looked to the two and then leaned down – in a single bite he chomped the entire steak, chewing for a moment, before he looked back up to her. Raine chuckled, and he went back to his spot before the fireplace.
Rain was pelting down now on the roof top. “It hasn’t rained in the desert – in a very very long time. Rain here in the Savannah is few and far in between...” she glanced to her. “Pretty crazy...” she paused. “So… Where you from? Your armor is… interesting, I haven’t really seen anything like it. Patterns are unique, I know most of the master craftsman of this land – and this is beyond them...” she raised an eye brow. “You from the islands of the east coast? Only place I don’t care to travel...” she cut into a piece of her steak and ate it.
“You also handled yourself well with that sword… Though, if you prefer to keep to yourself.. I don’t blame you. These lands its… a dangerous place. Once you feel ready, you are welcome to make your way. Though, for now – I wouldn’t mind the company, if you want to hang around...”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 1:54:44 GMT -5
Remiael took in a breath as she looked to the chair. She stepped forward and sat down in the chair lightly, her eyes moved about the room, taking in the marble countertop, the quaint features of the home. It was cozy and functional. Her lips parted to speak just as the woman stepped outside. She watched the flames flicker at the meat of the steaks, the sizzle and pop of the fire beneath. The angel glanced to Raine as she entered the home again and her icy eyes moved to the tiger. He was part of the reason she’d lived, yes. But in the same token...he was a powerful beast, one to fear. Raine’s words broke her gaze at the tiger. “I slept for a long time?” She spoke, her voice soft, she drew her brows together slightly. It felt as though she’d merely closed her eyes a few moments. Then again, she didn’t know just how far away this home was or how long she’d slept in the bed. She glanced to her arms and the horrible wrap job that Arne had done. He’d only wrap her arms to unwrap them again and slice the wound back open. She shuddered at the thought. She merely nodded to the motion that they would clean up her wounds after food.
She took in a breath as the woman spoke about the people of the village, of Arne. He was wanted. She nodded again, her eyes watched as the woman cooked, she seemed almost mesmerized by it. She took the cup of water happily and sipped from it. She gave a gentle smile to the cracked up. “I like that one.” She spoke, “Imperfections are something that hold more character than the most perfect piece.” Her accent was different than that of Raine. It was almost noble in tone. Possibly northern even. It would be hard to pinpoint the accent of an ancient Archangel such as herself. Remiael’s lips curved up once again when she saw the woman set the plate upon the floor for the tiger. He was family. A companion of sorts. She looked to the plate before her as she took the knife and fork into her hands. “Thank you.” She glanced back to the delicious food.
Remiael looked to the woman as she began to speak. Her name was Raine the Huntress. It had a nice ring, it rolled off the tongue well. It suited her, truthfully. She drew her brows together slightly as the woman spoke of the rain outside. Her eyes shifted slightly to the window for a moment before she took a bite of her meal. The steak melted in her mouth. Arne had spoken about the rains to her as well. How precious this rain was, how long it had been. She’d heard the same thing from him. He’d called her an angel sent by Yog. Though, nothing made sense to her. Not Yog. Not the desert. Nothing. She couldn’t remember her life at all.
She took in a breath as Raine began to question her. “Um...” She began her voice soft, her icy eyes looked up from the half eaten meal. “I think my name is Remiael.” She spoke as she searched the woman’s eyes. “Remi...I don’t believe I have a title like you do...” She gave an almost shy smile as she took a sip of water. She looked to the armor upon her body. The gauntlets that were clipped to her hip. Her eyes fell upon the empty sheath then. A sword belonged in it. Where was the sword? Did Arne take it? She couldn’t remember. “I...um...” She drew her brows together as her eyes locked on Raine once again. “I am not sure where I am from.” She shook her head.
“Truthfully...I can’t remember who I am...I...” Thunder boomed outside and the wind picked up slightly as her breath shuddered. “I am unable to remember much of anything at all. I remember waking in the mud of the desert, it was raining hard. I was in pain.” She lowered her eyes away, her brows drawn in as she tried to remember. “I was in a lot of pain...there were men that picked me up...they spoke of Arne and offerings...and blessings...and...Yog...whoever Yog is...does he make those people do such horrible things?” She questioned quickly then. Her eyes lifted. “This Yog...does he cause the men like Arne to act in such a horrible way? They killed a child...”
Remiael fell quiet then, she took another bite of her food hastily, nearly finished. She sucked in a deep breath and shook her head. “I don’t know where I belong or where I am headed...” She finished the meal and took a sip of her water. Her expression softened slightly, “I have a sword...somewhere...” She spoke as she looked again to the empty sheath. She ran her fingertips along the golden feathers of the design. “I’m not sure where it is...” Her icy eyes gazed to Raine again. She had a soft look about her, almost sad. The paleness of her skin had resolved slightly from her food and water intake. She let out a soft breath and shook her head. “What are the islands to the east?” She questioned softly, curiously.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 16:06:06 GMT -5
Raine looked to her as she sipped from her cup – a slight grin split her lips as the woman spoke of the crack, and how she liked it. “I’m a bit more of a functional person” she spoke and took a bite. “If it works, then it is good enough.” she ate quietly, listening to the woman ask her questions. Once she finished she stood and lifted a iron bucket, she picked up the plates and such and set them gently into the bucket, to be washed by the well – once the rain stopped.
“You don’t believe, eh? Remi” she lifted a brow. “What ever happened to you – I think you got a good knock to the head.” she stepped over and placed a hand on the woman’s chin, turning her head from side to side – trying to see if she could visibly see damage to her head. “Hm...” she sighed.
“I am beginning to believe you are surely an Outsider. Perhaps someone knocked you out and tossed you here, you don’t have a bracelet so...” she unwrapped the leather bindings around her wrist and hand – revealing a glowing green and golden bracelet. “This guy here keeps us bound here, some ancient technology, that has gotten into the wrong hands… it is very rare for outsiders to willingly venture here...” she lifted another bucket, which was sitting ontop of a barrel. Though this bucket was full of water…
She poured some water into a pot and set it back onto the stove and let it warm up. “This land is called the Exiled Lands. A bit of the world that is tucked away, lined by a wall of doom – which to anyone with a bracelet on… is deadly. There are… some resemblance of gods here, of something...” she raised a brow. “Yog is one of them, he is the God of Fire and Flesh. His followers eat humans, and sacrifice them, and so on and so on. Just about anyone who follows Yog is straight out of their mind. I try not to be judgemental and harsh but most I kill are Yogites” she pulled the pot off when it was warm.
Raine set the pot on the marble table and pulled her chair closer to Remi. Next to her was also a small leather satchel, where she had a glass tube of paste, a few herbs, and linen bandages. She then reached forward and quietly removed the wraps from Remi’s arms, she dabbed her wounds with the cloth – cleaning the wounds, wiping away the blood and dirt…
“Your sword probably means much to you...” she glanced to a sword that was on her wall, her Master’s sword… “The one thing I do take much pride in is my weapons, most are gifts, some I’ve made, but each has it’s story...” she tilted her head and dabbed at a deep cut down her arm… She picked up the tube and used a bit of cloth to get the paste out of it – she then filled the wound with it, almost like sealing it…
“Tell you what...” she glanced up to Remi. “Make yourself useful around here, and I’ll help you get your sword, hm?” she questioned as her hands took the bandages and wrapped her wounds. “A dear friend of mine died not long ago, and left a hefty debt behind. Unfortunately, his debt has fallen to me. If I don’t clear it – there will be a bounty set for his daughter...” she glanced up. “So, anything to make gold would work. Usually I sell pelts, I make swords and the like...” she stood then. “Not sure if you’re one for pottery, or glass work – but there is a hot market for that as well, or maybe even some sewing work… I have no idea what you can honestly do, but I suppose any help will do...” she set the bloodied rag against the side of the pot.
She stepped over then to a large barrel keg, that sat atop a crate. She poured two ales and set one down on the table. Raine took a long drag and glanced to the window – the rain was beginning to slow down… “I know a few guys in Sepermaru, they work in the black market – perhaps if anyone has seen your sword…. They could keep an ear out. Your designs are unique, I am sure they can help...” she took a long swig from her ale.
“Well, you can have the bed, I will take the couch… Tomorrow we deliver the bounty and cash in, we can figure out the rest later...” she finished her ale and set the mug in the pale with the other dishes. She stretched her arms out then and sighed. “I am exhausted, so… don’t mind me...” she stepped over into the living room and set the fireplace up and struck her stones against the tinder. A happy fire was rolling swiftly, and she sat on the couch, a book in hand. There were several stacks of books, maybe 2 or 3 high about the house, evident that she was a reader… which was rare for this world.
Soon enough she slumped to the side, the book laying on her lap – closed with her thumb pressed in the middle. It was a romance novel, squishy and stupid – a secret pass time of hers, that often lulled her to sleep. The notion of love, and peace and serenity – it was a lost feeling to her, one that she retained to as a young girl, but hidden away by her layers of grit and iron…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 16:39:52 GMT -5
Remiael sipped on her water as Raine began to respond. She flinched back slightly when Raine reached forward and grasped her chin, a flash of lightning scattered across the skies followed by a rumble of thunder. “I’m not sure I hit my head...” She mutter softly. “But...you could be right...” She watched as Raine unwrapped the leathers to reveal her bracelet. A strange glowing device, her brows raised slightly. “Arne seemed out of his mind...” She nodded in agreement to Raine’s words. She took in a breath.
Remiael took in a breath as Raine set the warm pot of water onto the table. She feared others in this world after what Arne had done to her over the past week. It was a living nightmare. When Raine grasped onto her arm, the touch was gentle, but even so Remiael’s muscles tensed and her breath caught in her chest. She stared as the bandages were removed. The cuts along her arms were jagged, deep. It was a wonder she hadn’t bled out from a few of the gashes. A soft whimper came over her lips as she fought to leave her arm where it was. Each touch from Raine sent shocks down her arm. She clinched her teeth as she stared at the wounds. Her breaths shuddered and she began to feel light headed from the pain. By then, Raine had finished the second arm and the pain began to subside. Her pulse began to slow as she pulled her arms close to her body a moment before she shakily took a sip of her water. “I’m not even certain as to what my sword looks like...” She whispered softly. Her icy eyes met Raine’s. “Though, if you believe it will have the same work as my clothing...” She glanced to the armored pieces. Her fingertips ran over the sheath of the sword again. She tried to remember. Anything. Anything that could help at all. She shook her head then, a soft sigh came over her lips. “I...I will do whatever I can to help. I owe you my life.” The angel looked to the woman with soft eyes. “I will help you repay this debt that you owe.” She nodded and gave a gentle smile. “It is the least that I may do.”
As Remi began to trust Raine, the storm outside began to subside. The setting sun began to peek through the clouds and eventually the storm dissipated. She drank from the ale and choked slightly at the bitter flavor. As an Angel she hadn’t had much alcohol. Though with each drink she grew to like the liquid. Her body began to feel light and a soft smile curved up her lips. She glanced to Raine, “Thank you...again...” She spoke and bowed her head slightly. She sat at the table for awhile longer, her eyes watching the world outside of the home. She glanced over to Raine as she slumped to the side, falling asleep with the book in her hands. The angel stood slowly and she stepped to the side of the couch. She gently took the book and placed a gentle fold in the paper to mark the page. Then Remi grasped a thick woven blanket from the back of the couch. She carefully adjusted Raine before she tucked the blanket in around her. She stood there a moment her brows drawn together as she tried to remember. Anything that she could grasp. Nothing. She glanced to the crackling fire a moment longer before she slipped away to the bed.
Remi slept a dreamless sleep. Though her back began to burn through the night. She whimpered in her sleep, causing her eyes to open. She took in quick breaths. She sat up on the edge of the bed and leaned forward with grit teeth. She stood slowly and moved through the house. She looked through a few cabinets and gathered a few supplies. Glass work was hot on the market Raine stated. She’d gathered a few pieces of broken glass here and there and she stepped to the fire. Remi was careful and used an old broken pot to warm the glass. It turned into a molten orange color over the flames after awhile. She turned the stick and shaped it carefully. The movements seemed as though she’d done them everyday. It came easily to her. Was this what she was? A glassworker? What was she before she forgot everything?
Soon enough Remi had forged two bowls and two mugs. They were carefully shaped, almost perfect even. Though the different colors of the broken shards she’d used added a beautiful color to them. Blue and red, clear, white. It was a gorgeous piece. Remi set the bowls on the counter before she grasped the bucket of dirty dishes. She then took it outside and walked to the well where she began washing the dishes carefully. She hummed softly to herself, a tune that she knew. Somehow. She knew it. She looked about the early morning of the savannah, birds chirped and sang. A soft smile curved up her lips. The morning air was cool, yet a hot day would follow. Remi turned her attention back to the dishes then, carefully cleaning them.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 14, 2019 23:05:14 GMT -5
Generally Raine was up before the sun – but she had exerted much energy the day prior, and her body refused to rise on time. When she did – it was to the sound of plates touching, an old rising sound for her. It usually meant breakfast – when she lived with Percy. Her eyes opened and she slowly sat up. For a moment she felt the sweet excitement of the day, but as her eyes fell upon her own home – a small pit grew in her stomach. The young child within her pushed away by the reality that he was no more.
Raine stood, her fingers folding the blanket – noting in her mind that she had never grabbed it...her book was sitting on the side table, closed… She placed the blanket on the back of the couch and made her way to the kitchen. “Good morning” she smiled and glanced to the glass bowls. “Did you do this?” she questioned, she lifted the bowls and turned them around in her hand. “Damn near flawless...” she glanced up. “Impressive” she smirked and then set them down.
“I will gather a few things...” she spoke and then nodded, she stepped outside and towards the wooden out house. She opened it to a wooden seat that dropped into a pale, of which she tended to everyday. It was as close to a toilet as she could create, her old memories of the world outside… She tended to her business and then found her way towards a small stream. A huge turtle slept next to his nest of 4 eggs… It was a rarity that she would snatch his eggs, but sometimes one just craves a good egg… She snuck over, quietly, and lifted an egg. It was easily ten times larger than a normal bird egg, and would easily feed the three of them.
She stepped softly away, the beast still slumbering peacefully. Such loafs of a creature. She made her way back to the house, to which Gore had followed her inside. He made his way over to the fire place, which had old coals now, and laid down, waiting for breakfast.
“Check this bad boy out, hm?” She set the egg down. Suddenly there was a knock on the door. Raine grasped a few gold coins off of the table and stepped over. A young boy stood – holding two large glass bottles of milk.
“G’morning Raine” the boy offered the two.
“Right on time eh?” Raine smiled and accepted the bottled and handed the 2 coins over. “Thank you, Bran” she watched then as he turned and made his way.
“A good boy, he is” Raine turned and lifted the two bottles. “Goat’s milk, he delivers twice a week. I pay a little more than necessary just because he makes the trek… His mom’s a good one, just her and Bran...” she set the glass bottles in the fridge. It was lined with black ice – a rare ice that kept its cold for a long time, but needed to be replenished over time.
“When I have time – I go over to their place and teach him to hunt and to fight… his mother can defend decently but, well, I am the Huntress for a reason” she chuckled and nodded. “I’ve got some… cured bacon, with some eggs?” she questioned… She leaned down and tossed a few logs into the stove and lit it easily.
“There’s a glass merchant in town, perhaps we will use what you have crafted as a way to start up trade with him. We can probably make enough off of your work for some better tools, and I’ll chip in some gold for nice glass and the like. I am sure you found my black smith in the back, not a problem” she smirked. Something about having company… it warmed her. She had been alone for so long. Even with Percy – he was always doing his thing…Plus there was always something nice about mentoring someone, or perhaps even providing…
“Can you cook?” She questioned. “I have a few things I need to do before we go...” she looked to the woman and nodded. “Just crack that in there, stir it up till it looks done, the bacon is already cooked just needs to be heated...” she glanced to her, and then nodded. “I’ll come in when it smells right” she winked and stepped outside, Gore following after.
She made her way to the garden she had, she check on them – tidying and fixing a few things. The water ran a lot of good soil away, so she worked on returning it. After which she stepped to the drying shack, which was just a simple wooden shack. As she entered – hooks hung from the ceiling, bags of salt lay in the corners. She added bark into the heater, which was just coals that were constant, she had to tend to them frequently to ensure the shack was smokey enough to dry everything out.
She did a lot of gathering, usually in huge bulk, or she purchased. Most of her work was done herself though. It took a lot to survive… Once she finished she left the shack and grabbed two pales and filled it with water from the well and came back inside.
She set the pales down by the keg and then smirked. “Perfectly done” she smiled and sat down at the table. “Thanks for cleaning up, and cooking – It’s kind of nice to share the glory” she chuckled and then helped grab two plates and the like.
“After breakfast – we will go to Sepermaru. If you want, I can pay for you to take a shower there. Because of the water shortages, I usually bathe in the Oasis or in Sepermaru, I figure you’d probably like a little more privacy” she chuckled. “It’s not a far hike, less than an hour.” she loaded her plate up with scrambled eggs and bacon. The left over eggs, which was a huge chunk, she helped put into a bowl, and she chuckled a hunk of meat into it and set it down on the ground, to which Gore sat up and made his way over, though he would wait until they began to eat.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 15, 2019 16:11:35 GMT -5
Remi looked up from the dishes as she dried them with a towel, her eyes moved to the glass bowls and cups she’d crafted. “Good morning, yes I did.” She gave a small smile that only grew when Raine complimented her craft. “It just came to me, it felt natural...like I’ve done it before...maybe I am a glassworker? I just can’t remember it...” She lowered her eyes as she dried off another dish. When Raine left she finished up washing the dishes and she looked to the weather outside. It was cool, not too hot, just warm enough.
When Raine returned Remi took in a breath. “That’s a huge egg.” She looked over it but then there was a knock from the door. The boy with the milk. The interaction made her smile. A chuckle came over her lips even. Raine was a descent person, one not deserving of this place, of the exiled lands it seemed. Remi began to wonder what she did to deserve the bracelet. Why had she been outcast? She was nothing like the others that she’d met so far. Then again they were Yogites and Raine said that they were nearly all insane. Maybe others were not? “Me cook?” Remi let out a soft laugh. “I...um...” She already had the spatula in her hand and Raine was out the door. “Okay...” She stirred the egg around cooking it as it popped and sizzled.
Eventually the liquid turned to scrambled eggs and she heated up the bacon. She flipped the eggs onto two plates and then she tossed the bacon on it. Remi looked up as Raine walked back in. “Thanks.” She chuckled softly. “Maybe I remember more than I realize?” She questioned as she sat down. She took a bite of her eggs as Raine spoke. She nodded, “A shower does sound amazing right now...I...” She paused thinking of Arne and what he’d done to her. She shuddered slightly and shook her head. “A shower would be nice, I will repay you.” She took another bite of food. She glanced to Gore a moment and smiled, she wasn’t as frightened of him now.
After breakfast Remi stood. She carefully pulled her gauntlets over the bandaging on her arms. She winced slightly, but the pressure once the armor was in place felt good. She nodded to Raine as they stepped from the home. She’d grabbed the small short sword that Raine offered her. It fit into her sheath since it was smaller than her sword she’d lost. She looked to the bowls that she held in her hands a soft smile upon her lips. “Thank you.” She spoke as she looked to Raine. “Truly, thank you for doing this.” She then fell quiet as she looked forward along the path. She still tried to remember her past and yet nothing came to her. Nothing more than the dream.
After around 40 minutes of walking a group of men crested over the small hill in the desert. Remi watched as they approached. She glanced to Raine a few times. “Should we be worried?” She questioned, her breath shook slightly. She glanced back ahead as the men drew closer.
“What’s this then?” One of the men spoke as he looked to Remi. “Darketo sent word of an outsider.” He stepped forward to Remi and cupped her chin quickly. He licked his lips and chuckled. “I didn’t think you would be this easy to find. How stupid can you be? Walking around in this armor?”
Remi reached forward swiftly, her fingers curled around a dagger on his hip. She brought the dagger into the side of his ribs harshly, her icy blue eyes turned a glowing white for a moment as she moved. Her movements were fluid as she kicked him back and tossed the dagger to the ground. Her sword was drawn quickly and she ran forward toward the others that drew their own swords. She dodged a slash from one of the men and her sword lobbed off one of his legs. She spun as he fell to the ground and she sliced her sword into his chest. When the small group had perished Remi fell to her knees, blood splattered across the front of her. The glasswork she’d done was shattered on the ground. She took in quick breaths as the light faded away from her eyes and the icy blue returned once again.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 15, 2019 21:20:15 GMT -5
Raine lifted a bag over her shoulder, within it was the head of her bounty. Additionally she had another bag of cured leather, that she had finished up moments ago. They began their trek across the Savannah. Their steps crunched over dried grass, but what was normally cracked – was now a happy moist red clay, due to the rains that had came through.
“Should we be worried? Always...” Raine answered as her hues honed in on the men. Gore stayed back a bit, and instinctually Raine pulled her sword from her hip, the bag still over her shoulder. She shook her head as they spoke out. “If you value your life – you will step away...” Raine spoke and gripped the hilt of her blade.
“Our life belongs to Darketo, and she demands her heart” One of the Darketo followers shouted – just as they lunged forward. Raine grunted and clashed swords with them, she brought the bag around and slammed it into his head – the two skulls slamming together, like a club to the face. She then stabbed forward and a splash of blood hit the red sands, mixing together for a crimson paste.
She kicked back at one and sliced into his shoulder, then with a twist she easily cut the arm off of another. As she spun back around she ducked – avoiding a blade, and came up with her blade between their legs – slicing upwards. One turned and began to run – Raine lifted her sword and flipped it so she held onto the tip of the blade, and then she threw it.
The sword turned several times in the air and then stabbed directly into the spine of the one fleeing, and he fell to the ground in a thud. They were all dead now… Raine turned her gae to Remi and she sighed softly, eyes falling to the glistening glass – which was also now drenched in blood. “I’m sorry Remi...” she sighed and looked to Gore. The white tiger had an arm in his mouth – he had ripped it off the body of an attacker in the midst of the fight…
Raine stepped over and helped Remi up, and then handed her the sword that she dropped. “We’ll make due...” she nodded and then sighed at the dead bodies that were scattered about. “You handled them very well, who ever you were – you must have been a very glorious fighter. One the bards sing about...” she smiled then and pat her back. “A shame you can’t remember...” she then stepped over to the body – where her sword stuck out of. She drew it out of his chest and wiped the blade off on the dead man’s back, and then sheathed it.
“Lets go, hm?” she waved to her and lead her towards the city, which could be seen not far off. As they entered – people either nodded their head, or looked the other way, to Raine’s presence. Either she was hated, or loved, depended on which end of the blade you were on.
“Come on, lets get you a drink before your shower...” She lead Remi into the Inn & Bar. It was a very local hot spot, active and warm, it was well lit – a hub of trading, conversing and so on.
Raine stepped up to the bar and set the bag down and grinned. “Arne the Yog-Chief” she looked to the woman, Ralinda, who grinned to Raine. She pulled out a bag of coins and set it down as she took the bounty and peered inside. Her nose crinkled up and she nodded.
“Thank you” Raine grinned and lifted the bag. 100 Gold coins, that was a hefty amount. She pulled out 10 of the gold coins and handed it to Remi. “1 Gold for a shower, and 9 left for whatever else you want. Should be enough there for maybe a set of clothes...” she smirked. “Ralinda – can I get a Sour Ale? And whatever my friend Remi wants here” she nodded and sat down at the bar.
She accepted her drink and held it in her hands for a long moment. She would have to pay at least 75 gold to keep the sharks off her back. She wondered what got Percy into so much debt, but she figured to not ask… and just deal with it. She had about 600 gold to go. She sighed deeply and took a long swig of her ale.
“I got some leather here, should be enough to grab some new tools, and some glass for you… I’ll grab that on the way out. Figure if I invest now – maybe you can craft up some really nice stuff, should work out. Let’s say… I get 25% of your cut?” she smirked. “If it goes well, then I wouldn’t charge you anything to live with me. I’d be more generous but, unfortunately I have a debt I must pay...” she shrugged and finished her ale.
“Relinda – Remi here wants the key to the bathhouse.” she called out.
Relinda came back with a key in hand and her palm upwards. “1 Gold coin deary” she smiled. Once she had it she handed over the key. “Go up stairs and to the right. Plenty of soaps, and such...”
“Go on, I’ll be right here” she nodded. “You should be safe, no one does anything funny here in Sepermaru” she assured.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 16, 2019 9:41:07 GMT -5
Remi looked up slowly as she let out a breath, her hands trembled slightly as she reached to Raine’s hand and accepted her help. “It is a shame...” She spoke as she brushed a bit of blood from her gauntlet. “Because...whoever I am, they seem to want me dead. You heard them right?” She questioned as she accepted the sword and slid it into the sheath. “What could I have possibly done...” She sighed, “At least I don’t have a bounty hunter after me.” She gave a soft laugh, “I wouldn’t want to be put up against you.” She smirked as they walked along.
The angel fell quiet then as her eyes looked over the city. It was small. The buildings seemed to be forged from the stone of the desert, the concrete made of the red sandy clay. She looked to the people, taking notice that some would smile and others would seem to advert their eyes and almost walk around them. A few stared at Remi, eyeing her strange armor no doubt. Or had she left blood on her face? She brushed her face instinctually as if to clean it. Though she didn’t feel anything on her face. Raine’s voice broke her from her thoughts. “A drink?” She questioned her brows rose slightly. Alcohol seemed like a forbidden thing to her, though she loved it. She loved the ale that Raine poured for her the night before, it had helped her slip off to sleep easily.
Remi sat down on the old wooden bar stool, her eyes looked to the woman, Relinda. Remi gave a smile as she looked to the coins that she accepted from Raine. “Oh...” She looked back to the barkeep. “I...” She took in a breath. “That sounds fine...I’m not sure what to order.” She let out a soft chuckle. Within moments the ale was pushed across the bar to her. Remi lifted it to her lips and she took a drink from the frothy head. Her brows pulled together as the sour flavor washed over her pallet. “You can have whatever I make, Raine. I owe you...” She gave a soft smile and took another drink. It wasn’t nearly as bitter this time. “You saved my life, so I am in debt to you.” She took another long drink before she passed the coin to the woman and was offered a key.
Remi stood slowly from the bar and she made her way up the stairs. Her muscles had loosened from the ale, she already felt a bit light headed. It had a quick effect on her. Remi found the room that was labeled bath and she slipped the key into the slot. She opened the door to a beautifully crafted wooden room. A large tub sat crafted into the corner with wooden steps up into it. She stepped forward toward a shelf and looked over the soaps and lotions, a soft smile upon her lips. Her body felt gritty, dirty. She drew up the water as she unbuckled her armor from her body. Remi ran her fingertips over each piece slowly. “Who are you?” She questioned as she paused to look at herself in the mirror. She sighed as she slipped into the hot bubble bath that she’d created. Her body relaxed into the water and she allowed her eyes to slip shut.
**
The world was silent. Dark. The air was cool and crisp. Remi knelt down, her knee crunched into the snow that had been stained a bright crimson red. She reached and touched her hand to the head of a man that clutched his chest. Her hand began to glow a beautiful white color. “You will find peace in the other side, we will guide you.” She spoke softly.
The man smiled as blood dripped from his nose. He took in shaken breaths and grit his teeth. “Arch….ang….el...” His voice was broken. “Thank….you….” His eyes slipped shut then.
Remi took in a breath as his soul lifted from his body and he lifted up into the darkness of the night. She slowly stood and turned. “What are you doing here?” She questioned, her tone changed, her hand was on the hilt of her blade.
“Oh just stealing souls from you, Archangel.” A demon stood with black pits for eyes and sharp pointed teeth, horns grew from his head, his skin was a stone like grey color that looked dry and cracked. He reached his hand out and a dark shadow formed within his hand as he grasped toward the sky. A cackle came from his lips as the glowing soul of the man was pulled back to him. “Ahhhh yes the things I will do with this one.” He hissed.
Remi drew her blade. “Let him go, he must find peace. He must rest. His soul is pure….you...you did this to him...” She took a step forward.
The demon snarled at her. “Do you think I play by the rules Angel? Do I care about purity?” He snapped as he wrapped shadows around the soul to drown it out. He barged forward and suddenly lashed out. His hand gripped around her throat and he easily lifted her from the ground.
Remi gagged as she fought against him. She slashed forward with her sword and caught his side. “You will release him.” She ordered her eyes began to glow a bright white. “I will return you to the pits of hell demon.” She snapped then, her voice different. Her wings thrust her forward and the two began the quarrel, twisting and turning about in and out of the air. The demon sprouted leathery wings from his back as they fought. He slammed her to the ground only for her to slice through the webbing of his wing. It was a brutal fight, blood splattered the ground from both involved. Remi finally landed the final blow with a jab forward of her blade, it sliced into his chest and he burst into flames. She fell to her knees then gasping, blood ran from her nose. “Find peace.” She whispered as the soul lifted to the heavens, free to go once more.
**
Remi sat up in the water quickly it sloshed about as she took in a gasp of air. The waters had cooled. How long had she been dreaming. She pulled the plug and climbed out, wrapping a towel easily around her body. “Archangel...” She whispered and shook her head. “What a strange dream...” She rubbed lotion over her skin before she dressed back in her armor which she cleaned of the blood and dirt. It glistened beautifully. Brighter than it had in a week now. Since she’d awakened in the desert. She dried her hair and she looked into the mirror her icy eyes almost had a glow to them for a moment before it dissipated. “Huh...” She tilted her head slightly, “Just seeing things...” She shook her head as she pulled on her last gauntlet and she stepped from the bath. She walked down the stairs to find Raine a soft smile upon her lips. “That was rather relaxing.” She handed the key over. “I want to find a new set of clothing...something I can blend in better with...hopefully.”
“With those eyes, you’d be lucky to blend in, girl.” Relinda spoke with a smile. “Cherish it.” She chuckled, not realizing the gravity of the situation.
Remi returned a smile, “That I will. Thank you.” She bowed her head before she walked from the bar. Remi found her way to a small seamstress. She stepped into the shop and glanced about.
“Oh my my.” A small woman stepped forward. “Look what we have here.” She climbed up on a footstool and grinned. “What a beauty you are.” She touched Remi’s beautiful blonde locks before she looked over the armor. “How may I assist you?” She asked sweetly.
“I need a new set or armor, I have only 9 coins to give you. Just...something simple.” Remi spoke and as she spoke the woman was already measuring her.
“Of course, of course dear.” She spoke as she rushed off. She poked her head out from behind a curtain. “Well don’t just stand there, come on.”
Remi hesitated a moment before she followed the woman. She was stripped down and placed into black trousers and a black tunic. It was finely woven and fit her like a glove. The woman tilted her head slightly before she disappeared and returned with a few other items. Leather here, chainmail there. After nearly an hour the woman stepped back a smile upon her lips. “Ahh yes, that should do it. Much better protection than this.” She looked over the inscriptions upon Remi’s armor. “Though, these are beautiful.” She chuckled. “More for looks than anything, hm?”
“I’m not entirely sure.” Remi spoke and shook her head. She glanced into the mirror to herself. A leather shoulder piece and gauntlet on both sides. A chainmail torso piece. Belts hung onto her waist and she was matched with leather boots. The woman had even attached her sword to her hip. “Oh...this is beautiful work.” She ran her fingertips over the swirls in the leather, the golden inlay. “I...I’m not sure I can.”
“You are traveling with Raine, correct?” The woman asked.
“Um, yes I--...”
“Say no more.” She held up her hands. “6 pieces it is.”
Remi hesitated, “I have 9 pieces.”
“Yes yes well buy Raine a drink, would you? She saved my husband. The poor bastard.” She chuckled, “It is the least I can do. I was good friends with Percy too. Tell the girl I’m sorry for her loss...poor dear…” The woman spoke her voice softening at the end.
Remi held the pieces forward. “Yes...of course...thank you.” She spoke and drew her brows together. She packed up her old gear in a rucksack and she stepped from the shop. She walked through the shops and glanced around until she found Raine. She walked up and gave a gentle smile. “Should I fit in better now?” She asked. “I owe you a drink from the seamstress….she also mentioned a man named Percy? She told me to tell you she was sorry...” Remi’s own voice softened as she spoke, she thought back to the dream how she was the angel that lifted the soul from its body. The demon’s black eyes. She shook her head slightly. “Who was Percy?” The words slipped over her lips before she could stop them. It was meant to be a question in her mind. She knew better than to ask upon the death of a loved one. “I’m sorry...you...don’t have to...” She sucked in a breath. “You barely even know me...I shouldn’t have asked that.” She looked away then.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 16, 2019 17:41:40 GMT -5
Raine looked to the woman as she spoke – chuckling slightly as she mentioned she wouldn’t want Raine to be her bounty hunter. “Hm, I doubt I could honestly bring myself to killing a woman such as you” she smirked as they moved onward.
When they sat in the Inn and Remi offered all of her goods, she simply chuckled. “You are an honorable woman” she nodded her head. “As am I… we shall work it out then, hm? We wont stress about it” she stood then as she watched Remi walked upward to take a bath.
Raine turned back to the Inn keeper, who had a brow raised. “I am sure you want to know, others will ask...” she sat back down and took a long drag of her ale. To which Ralinda refilled for her.
“Indeed, there have already been whispers...” Ralinda titled her head. “So, tell me then”
“Hm… She is an Outsider of some kind, no bracelet… She cannot remember a thing, who ever brought her here – I think did devilish things to her...” she sucked in a breath. “When I came upon the Yog site by the pit, it… was raining” Raine leaned back, watching the expression of the inn keeper.
Ralinda’s brows pulled together. “Raining? It has never rained in the desert….” she stepped back, thinking.
“Indeed, the desert is cursed… but I think she had something to do with it… I felt pity, remorse, and even...a touch of hope, the feelings where not mine… I simply had them just by looking at her… Anyways, I took her down and brought her home – she basically was out the entire ride. Her body has not received a break, I could tell that much” she paused “And then when she woke… it rained in the Savannah...”
“That was the rain hm? I thought it was rather sudden. Usually the trees sway - “
“And the birds leave” Raine finished her sentence. “But they did not, even they were caught off guard...”
“And you think this was her?” Ralinda sipped on her own cup of wine. The bar was empty, none to listen in - Ralinda had known this prior to asking.
“Possibly… I can’t say for sure, but she intrigues me. She is a rather sweet girl, it would be ill of me to leave her – and let this world taint her soul. Maybe there is something I can make of her, but if she can leave the Exiled Lands… I will encourage her to. No sense on being tortured here...”
“Hm… I will keep this a secret, of course.” Ralinda finished her drink.
Raine pulled out a few coins, more than normal and set them on the table. “Perhaps if others question, you would deter them...”
Ralinda smirked and accepted the coins and nodded. “I think I could manage...”
It was then that Remi had returned… Raine stood and nodded to Ralinda, and then followed behind Remi – who seemed set on her destination. As she stepped outside – Gore stood and stretched, he was curled by the door. She watched as Remi stepped into the seamstress shop, the owner glanced up to Raine and gave a small wave.
She then stepped away and down a few shops, but Gore stood at the door of the seamstress, waiting for when Remi finished. Raine didn’t need to a say a thing, they were tuned together like a sweet harp, often one of the same mind. Their bond was impeccable, some might even say they share the same mind…
Raine loaded the rolled bundle of furs and leathers onto the table, a man stepped up. He had a scar across his tanned face, with a long beard and braided hair. “Aye, always here with the finest of leathers...” he untied the roll and pulled each hide out. “You nicked a little short here – pay more attention with the rear legs… take your time...” he picked up another and nodded, his fingers rolling over the fur. “A little less salt as well, you are getting better though..” he then lifted a white fox coat.
“You like that one?” she questioned, smiling proudly.
“Aye, you were wise to leave the fur on this one… will make a beautiful coat or cloak… This is your best haul so far...” he then pulled out a bag of coins and set it down. “60 for it all, and I’ll toss this beauty in” he lifted a black skinning knife, it had a large curved face. “Perfect for laying flat against the muscle and give it a flick like so” he shifted the blade in his hand. “A new design, try it out for me?” he questioned. “Star metal even, will hold its edge for eternity...” he nodded. “A gift...”
Raine lifted the skinning knife and turned it about. “Alright, I’ll take it” she lifted her old skinning knife from her waist and set it down, placing the new in the sheath. “Thanks” she nodded and turned.
She turned as Remi approached. “Ah.. yes, that is much better” she grinned and nodded. “Come on” she waved her over. She listened then as Remi spoke of Percy… she sucked in a breath and stopped walking, turning to look at her now. “It’s alright” she nodded. “Percy...was a great warrior, he was like a father to me. I owe him everything” she smiled then. “He is gone now, and that is all there is to say about that..” her eyes glistened over with a bit of tears. She shifted then and glanced to Gore, who had his head lowered…
They were standing in front of the blacksmiths, sharing the same work space was the Glassworker. She turned and approached a woman – who sat before a kiln, a metal rod inside, turning as she melted some glass. “Hilda” Raine bowed her head. “My friend Remi here has a knack for glassworking, curious if you can sell me some tools… and perhaps we can arrange a trade deal, if she is up to par with your wants...”
“Can she blow?” Hilda questioned and looked to her. “Tell you what… blow me a glass cup, simple enough… and I can arrange this… plus perhaps a discount for you. Glass workers are a rarity...” the woman stood and motioned to the stool and bar that she sat at…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 16, 2019 18:43:19 GMT -5
Remi smiled as Raine stated her clothing was better. She looked down to the light chainmail and then chuckled softly as she followed her. As she saw the reaction to her questioning of Percy Remi bit her lower lip and looked away, she shouldn’t have asked such a question. Especially of someone she barely knew. But Raine said it was okay. Clearly it was a painful subject, she noticed the glistening of fresh tears on the woman’s eyes.
Before she knew it she was being offered the chance to blow glass. Remi looked to the woman and offered a soft smile, “A glass huh? I believe I can do that.” She stepped forward and sat down on the stool. Her eyes looked to the tools and various pieces of broken glass that lay in a mound on a tray. Her fingers picked through the pieces her eyes became focused. She used the tools as if she’d used them a thousand times before. She moved freely, her nerves didn’t seem to rise as she sat before the glassworker. Remi pushed clear glass into the stove. She twirled it around until it became molten hot. Then she lifted it and swirled it, she blew into the end of the stick. Her eyes never left the glass as she added in colors here and there. It took some time, but such delicate work took such time. Eventually Remi set the cooling glass cup down. It was clear with beautiful swirls of red, yellow, and orange that seemed to move about the glass like that of fire.
Hilda stood with her arms crossed over her chest, her jaw slack. It was truly beautiful work, a master work. She brought her eyes up to Remi and a grin split her lips. “You don’t give yourself enough credit girl. I’ve been working glass my whole life and I’ve yet to create a piece as gorgeous as that.” She looked to the warm glass as it sat upon the stone table. “Where did you learn this trade? Who was your teacher.”
Remi lowered her eyes, her hands fumbled slightly with the glassblowing rod that sat in her grasp still. “I’m sorry, but I don’t know the answer to that question...” Her voice softened. “I can’t seem to remember much.”
Hilda drew her brows together and let out a sigh. “What a shame. Whatever was done to you has left you with no memory...at least your muscles remember, hm?” She chuckled and gave a gentle squeeze to Remi’s shoulder. She then brought her eyes to Raine. “I’ll provide you with tools, I want 15% profit. She can bring the glasswork here and we can sell it.” Hilda watched Raine a moment. “You know, with this work.” She lifted the cooled glass and turned it around in her fingertips. “That debt of yours could disappear in no time.”
Remi perked up slightly at the mentioning of this. She glanced to Raine with a smile upon her lips. Helping others in need, it felt like something she must do, like a calling. She had to help Raine, there was no other option to her. Especially since Raine had saved her life. Remi stood as Hilda gathered supplies and rolled it up in a leather roll. She held it to her chest with a smile as Hilda slipped glass into her rucksack. It was enough for her to make several pieces of glasswork. Remi then nodded, “Thank you.” She spoke as they began to leave. She was quiet as they left the town, her eyes observing the people of the city. She wasn’t being stared at like before, it was a nice feeling. Remi adjusted the rucksack as she walked forward her eyes looked up to the beautiful blue of the skies.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Apr 16, 2019 19:07:08 GMT -5
While Remi tended to the glass – Raine shuffled over to the blacksmith, who was working on a sword. She conversed with him, and even at one point took over for him. Blacksmithing was something she enjoyed doing, and wasn’t terrible at. The blacksmith stood over her and gave her instructions – don’t hit so hard, pointing the direction she needed to go in.
When Remi was done – Raine handed a gold coin over to the blacksmith, for the lesson. She stepped over and tilted her head as she looked to the beautiful glass mug. “Hm… that is quite something...” she crossed her arms, eyes watching Hilda who seemed blown away. “How much do you think something like that would go for?” she questioned.
Hilda lifted her gaze “Those Mitra pets love their collectables, and their fancy wares. This bad boy? Easily 15 gold. If she made an entire set to match it, you could grab around 200 gold. This is the work of a master...” she chuckled “I shall let my Mitra buyers know we have an expert in house...” she nodded. “I look forward to doing business” she bowed her head then as they left with their goods.
“Quite a skill… Hilda is usually not so easily impressed” Raine spoke as they walked from Sepermaru. “Such delicacies are rare here, and coveted, often such pleasures are seen at a higher value than gold it self” she smirked. “The followers of Mitra… they aren’t bad people. Generally one of the few good ones, they offer things of value to their god – all their gold, their goods. They’re a little more holy, but often they are the ones fueling bandits, or raiding villages, and waging war over minerals” she shrugged. “I’ll take them over Darketo and Yog”
As they walked over the lands – she continued to talk, even though she wasn’t prompted. “There are two other Gods… Set and Ymir. Set is a Serpent God, his follows are generally neutral, they focus more on weapons and black market trading, Sepermaru is primarily Set, decent folk, more political – cunning, like a snake...” she paused – glancing to the sky, it was a little past noon, and she was getting hungry.
“And Ymir – the Frost Giant. Far up north is all lands of the frozen, the people who dare to live there are almost always the followers of Ymir, they donate pelts and black ice to their god, they make their structures completely of ice – some real beautiful work, entire castles and such…” she smirked.
“Well, I guess I left out the last one. Crom. All those not considered a follower of Yog, Darketo, Set, Mitra or Ymir, is a follower of Crom… Crom is a quiet god, who does not listen to his believers, he does not care. There are no offerings, and he doesn’t respond. Though, Crom is a great warrior – his tales of great battles against the other gods is beyond anything. Most that follow him – do simply so out of respect for his legacy. I fight for Crom, but eh, I enjoy not having to sacrifice my own blood to him” she winked and then laughed.
“Nearly there now...” she glanced back to Gore, who lifted his head. There was some noise not far – a clattering of voices – shouting, then a scream.
“Bran-” she quickly bolted off towards the home. It was a sweet wooden cottage, with an entire farm of creatures behind it. There were a gaggle of bandits at the door. Bran was laying on the ground, a gash down his arm – crying loudly. She peered into the doorway, his mother was pushed over a table, her dress hiked, a bandit behind her having his way.
“Gore-” she called out through her teeth.
Gore let out a furious growl and rushed forward. He sank his fangs into one of the men’s leg and threw him several feet, the cracking of bones filled the air with such a force.
Raine followed in and lifted her spear – she threw it forward with great power. The spear pierced through one man, throwing him so harshly that he was pinned against the side of the house.
Gore shuffled over Bran, protecting him as he bit at one of the men. “Remi - “ she called out, pointing to the man who had not stopped with the mother – Yelana, despite the chaos around him. Raine had her sword in hand – sparring with one of the final Bandits, who seemed to hold his own quite well…
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