Darth Vectis

This section will be the separation for Corvin and his known associates, as more are introduced through the story they will be added on as well.     Corvin the Pure- Corvin was born in relative peace during a warring time, his family was safely tucked away from the frontlines and his first few years were uneventful for the most part. He had four older brothers and one sister; his four brothers were drafted one-by-one into the empireâ??s forces. His sister, however, was drafted as well but for the purpose of becoming a combat medic, given the relatively impossible task of rushing out on the battlefield and either retrieving wounded soldiers or reviving others long enough to be thrown at the waves of daemons. Though his brothers were all seasoned fighters by the time he was old enough to be put out on the frontlines, he asked instead for the more ludicrous job of field medic as he admired his sisterâ??s courage. His first few tours made him revolutionize the art of field healing; having a natural talent for being able to identify injuries and illnesses with minimal effort he was able to create a simple system for medics to follow that increased their success rating by 40%. With his sharp mind and his ability to learn new information in almost no time, he was quickly noticed by the generals and was offered a more hands off position to preserve his talents. He declined with no hesitation, knowing his duty was to those who were laying dying from grievous, but treatable, wounds and illnesses born of improper techniques by past medics. During this time, he further changed the way medics behaved by forming structured ranks among the medics and giving them weapons training beyond the basics of handling a simple sword, creating warrior healers who could fight shoulder to shoulder effectively and treat wounds of fallen comrades at the same time. Corvin grew in fame as he lead entire squads of warrior healers alone into the most brutal battles on the frontlines. With his growth in fame and prowess, he quickly became known as Corvin the Pure as he was pure in his need to fulfill his purpose of saving lives and to the duty of caring for his fellow soldier. During the Battle of the Highlands, one of the most bloody and drawn out battles of the war, was when Corvin had discovered one of the most unbelievable scenes of his life.   They had been following the trail of a battalion of daemons and three wizards who were providing them with support. Having already bloodied their noses in previous engagement with Corvin and his men they retreated back towards their support lines. Corvin was determined to bring this unit down-- one of his brothers having been killed in the fight-- and with three wizards in sight he was determined to bring down the might of his warriors and hopefully cripple Zodiac and his conglomerate. They had managed the track down the enemy unit from the fallen bodies of their wounded and the tracks left behind; after moving through the night and almost half the day they came to a rise. Corvin knew they were over the rise and with the weakened state of the enemy unit, he didnâ??t bother with caution or to rest his men before they charged the rise with weapons drawn to finish the job they had started. As they crested the hill, with Corvin in the lead and all of them roaring with a deafening battlecry, they abruptly fell silent and came to a complete stop as they stared upon a scene of bloody and gore that shocked them all. The daemons had been torn apart, the black ichor, their equivalent to human blood, was splattered all over the grass and rocks along with their limbs that were broken and shattered. The wizards who had accompanied the unit were barely recognizable; their bodies were torn to shreds, their entrails laid in heaps on the ground and in the middle of all the destruction was a single man curled into a ball. Corvin and his men all approached carefully as they saw one blood soaked individual unmoving as he pressed his legs to his chest and tucked in his head. When finally drawing close enough, they could all see that the man was completely naked and without any weapons on him. Corvin approached the man, despite the objections of his soldiers, and removed his own coat and laid it on the shoulders of the nude man. With no movement from the man, Corvin did his best to inspect the ball of a human carefully before speaking to him. It took some coaxing for him to make any sort of response and even then they had to carry him with them for several miles before stopping and setting up camp for the night. They had the man set up in the tent with Corvin, who still spoke to the other as if he was responding back, carrying on in a relaxed manner until finally the other spoke for the first time. The naked man revealing his name to the other, revealing who he was and what had brought him to that point in time. That day Corvin understood that the war was greater than anyone actually knew, and that was the first day of a new beginning with the man named Malik Diarmad, and the journey they would take part in together. As time went on, Malik and Corvin grew together in both strength and bond as they continued to fight on with greater ability and efficiency. Malik showed his prowess in the fight, as he learned quickly new weapons, and with Corvinâ??s extensive medical knowledge made them a powerhouse team. Malik also exhibited an ability to lead and created an aura of calmness and loyalty in soldiers that followed him into combat; even ones who were not in his unit flocked to him. With this talent, he ascended the ranks quickly enough and Corvin followed easily as well, choosing to remain Malikâ??s â??subordinateâ?? as it fit his desire to stay out of the limelight while still doing great good. When the dragons first came into the world, Corvin watched as his friend had suddenly rushed off in the direction of some explosion. Fear had gripped his heart at the time, as he had already lost two brothers six months prior and his sister a year before that. He wasnâ??t ready to see his closest friend become another unnecessary casualty of war, especially not in their own camp by some misunderstood experiment by the wizard Teâ??lian and his apprentices. When Corvin had caught up to Malik he saw him standing before the alien being and saw his brother-in-arms change before his eyes into an enormous scaled creature. Witnessing the first Dragon Knight born was awe-inspiring to him, and even more so since his new brother was the first to be born into this war and in this world. However, a hint of jealousy was hidden deep within his heart, a rift born that day even when Corvin was picked as the second knight to be born. With his new gifts, the magic he was given helped him excel in the ability to heal as he could fix wounded men with ease and even fix those with mortal wounds to the point of minimal scarring. His magic was great amongst the knights. Where Malik excelled with the metal and physical abilities of the knighthood, Corvin was strong in the mental and magical side of it all. He still could wield a weapon easily enough and fight just as fiercely, but he was more capable at reading thoughts and implanting his own in the minds of others, with enough concentration and time on his part to perform the act. With their new strength, and their new unit of Dragon Knights, they raged across the battlefield in both dragon and human form and ultimately won the war in short time. As peace settled across the land, unrest was being born in the ranks of the knights as Corvin was seeing the empire he use to fight for decay and petty powers begin to fight for control for insignificant things while the common suffered for nothing better. As his desire to do what was right and to give every man equal chances to be great was his foremost concern, he and Malik argued over the knightsâ?? role in the world. Malik wanted nothing to do with the empire or the outer kingdoms, simply to remain in a peaceful world with the knights only acting for great threats or to be a policing peace power if kingdoms went to war with one another. Corvin argued for the knights to do more in the world, to be more active in everyday affairs and to be the primary controlling hand in the empire and have the other kingdoms fall under their control. As time went on, the arguments became more heated and the rift continued to grow between the two warriors, and as their difference grew the other knights began to choose sides as well. One night, when the argument had reached an apex and the two combatants were growing tired with the other not seeing reason, Corvin attempted something Malik couldnâ??t believe he would do. Corvin tried to use his powerful mind affecting spells to alter Malikâ??s own thoughts to sway him to his line of thinking. The act alone enraged Malik and caused him to physically assault Corvin with the blunt side of his weapon. A struggle ensued within the battle tower that night, as Malik and Corvin raged against one another, shifting from dragon and human form during the battle. The entire tower erupted into battle as knights fought one another in whatever way they could. Many were killed on both sides that day until finally Malik managed to eject Corvin from the tower, suffering for just a moment of kindness many called his ultimate error by giving Corvin mercy and allowing him to flee, along with the knights who sided with him. Corvin swore that day that he would either make his friend see the light of his way, or destroy everything that he and his knights stood for in a hail of destruction and death. Lilith- Appearance: http://i1280.photobucket.com/albums/a491/Robert_James_Mediavilla/Lilith_zps2b917b57.jpg Corvinâ??s â??consort,â? she has been his lover and loyal follower since shortly before his â??fall.â? Despite rumors claiming, as people often do of powerful lovers, that she convinced Corvin to rebel, Malik knows that that decision was completely of the corrupted Corvinâ??s making, and she simply followed out of her love for him.

â??I do appreciate you seeing me today my Lord, we at the Quillion Academy would like to offer our most humble of gratitude for this audience you have granted me.â? Malik sat quietly in his high backed chair, his face a cold mask of indifference with his hands settled on the arms of the chair. Looking at one of the more exotic races that have ever set foot in Dragonâ??s Rise and even more interesting that he was in the tower now. â??Yes, I understand you are quite thrilled but you are the last emissary I am to see today and I would rather skip the pleasantries if you donâ??t mind, Ambassador Arn Siq.â? Arn, the Quillion, blinked itâ??s reptilian eyes and the lipless face showed a toothy smile. â??Yes, yes, you are right, forgive me. Let me get right to the point of this meeting, we at the Academy wish to ask you for the assistance of the Dragon knights. We have unrest amongst our people, and that disturbs the Headmaster, yes he wants this situation settled.â? Malik could feel something wrong with Arn, something about him was unsettling him as he stared kept his composure as he shifted in his chair. His golden eyes flashing for just a split second as he pulled back the veil in his own mind and focusing his attention on the mind of Arn Siq and seeped into the thoughts of the other. â??If we acquire these knights, we can be rid of those tribes and have a foothold in Goranza. We missed our opportunity with Corvin and his ilk, but these knights will give us what we need.â?? Malikâ??s expression didnâ??t change as he pulled his mind back and leaned on to one hand to cradle his chin as if he was thinking about something, considering his options on this. â??That is a very, interesting request ambassador. I will need some time to consider this, I will give you my answer by tomorrow. Now, if you would excuse me, I have a very important war meeting to attend. My guards shall escort you back to your quarters.â? Malik rose from his chair as Arn mimicked the action and bowed his head to the Dragon commander before walking to the double doors and a pair of guards walking by his sides. Malik waited for a few moments before walking out the same door, his face grimmer than it had been moments ago as Agatha took her place next to him. â??Arn Siq is trying to use our people for political gain and I would prefer we decline his offer.â? Agatha held her hands behind her back as she looked only a little less cold than Malik, her head turned ever so much to look at him. â??But....â? â??But, I read his mind and he made mention of coming into contact with Corvin and others like him.â? Agatha let out a snort at his words. â??That could hardly be true, Corvin wouldnâ??t have allowed himself to be seen by the Quillion and allowed him to live. Corvin has been elusive so far, I doubt he would make this mistake.â? Malik nodded his head curtly. â??Yes, I agree. But, this is the only lead we have had recently and I will not miss this chance. I will be sending a contingent of Knights to investigate and find any evidence that supports this clue. You will accompany them to make sure the task is done right and thoroughly, I do not want to hear from you unless you find something or it is an emergency.â? â??Yes sir, this will likely be a wild goose chase, but iâ??ll get this done so you will get that six-legged Krelton bug out of your ass.â? She saluted him briefly before vanishing off to the side, leaving him alone as he strolled through the soaring hallways with his eyes wandering before falling upon one of the dragons that resided within the tower these days. He stopped then, seeing as the great beast looked down upon him and Malik stared back before giving a deep bow to the creature. â??Greetings Zualix, it has been sometime you have walked amongst us.â? The dragon was standing on all fours before it decided to settle and then finally lay down as it used its front appendages to gesture as it spoke to him through his mind. â??It has been indeed, solitude is a mistress that is always welcoming. I needed to see the sun once more this season before the need to hibernate takes over. Your world has had a strange effect on us, I hope the others will rest as easily as I.â?? Malik marveled at the beast in his own way, looking over the dull scales and the way it moved itâ??s front claws like hands. Small things like this brought to him how these powerful creatures changed the outcome of a bloody war. â??What do you think of Corvinâ??s descension? How does this bold for the rest of our kind if one of our best fell so far?â? Zualix stroked his chin scales as if deep in thought. â??His breaking from the Knights was disappointing, but truly he was always wild in my eyes. Your people will always be the same, your ambition creates these moments in your history. All that matters, is how you will handle it.â?? Malik bowed again to Zualix. â??I value the honesty, I have things I must attend to, enjoy your rest ancient one.â? Malik continued his journey, his mind coming back to the task at hand as he reached another set of double doors, and pushed them open with ease before him as he came into a small room that had a vaulted ceiling and was furnished with a single ornate table lined with several chairs. A glass pitcher sat on the middle of the table with several cups sitting around the base of it. Malik stood at the end of the table facing the door and looked to one of the guards stationed at the door. â??Send for the new arrivals, tell Knight Bayel and Slayer Haytham where the meeting shall be held. The others may need an escort, accommodate them and allow some freedom but do not delay.â? The guard saluted and vanished through the double doors, leaving Malik alone once more as he waited patiently for everyone to arrive. His own mind wandering once more as he found himself standing before a window, looking out to the open sky and the fields once more and felt a restlessness strike him as it had before. An unknown and, unexpected side effect of taking on the power that they all did, the dragon within rumbled and itched to be free and to spread itâ??s wings and soar through the air. His thoughts were shaken free as he heard the doors open, his head turning to look at the new arrivals, each shuffling as their eyes wandered around the room before finding their seats. Malik assessed them all as he watched how they walked, how they moved, how they took in their surroundings. He had to be sure of these people, he had heard good things, at least that they had good skills and the not two he could put full trust into was Knight Moretal and the Dragon Slayer Haytham. The other two, they have been referenced by others and the rumors were all he had left, fighting ability wasn't a concern as almost all were veterans of the Daemon wars. But their spirit and allegiance was always in question with Corvin running loose in the shaky world they all lived in. His eyes drifted over the Battle-Mage Garrick Flynt, taking in his human appearance and the uninterested look in his eyes. He had to resist the urge to pull the veil back and reach into Garrick's thoughts to see what he was dealing with, but he had to respect boundaries of others and with his talents in magic he could possibly deflect the search to elsewhere. He would have to hope he would be reliable enough for this journey. Maliks eyes drifted to Haythem and Moretal, one he knew well enough with her interesting ability and all. He had to keep her at arms length though, he understood spirits were need inclined to keep secrets and he couldn't truly afford spirits of old relating information that he didn't dare reveal himself. The slayer was another interesting young man, born during the war like most but not seeing the fighting that Malik and his father Krom had been through. He had a talent for war, the fight roared through his veins like the dragon blood in his father. His mother was a woman few would trifle with, and the fact they raised this boy to become a man and a Slayer was rather fitting. Finally, his eyes settled on Cassandra and a brow rose as a young boy stared at Malik with fascination burning in his eyes. Fidgeting in his seat, most children stared in awe or fear of the Dragon Commander, but this child was bubbling with an odd joy and giddiness. Malik's eyes swiftly moved to Cassandra then as she saw the look and approached him, pulling in close so he could speak to her quietly. "What is that boy doing here?" Cassandra seemed at a loss of words for a moment before finally speaking. "He is the wizard you have been looking for, I told you I would find you one." Malik's expression hardened further in contained anger. "He is just a child! He can't be any older than 8 years old! How can one of the most powerful and well connected sorceresses not find me a wizard of a proper age!" Malik's tone had gone from a whisper to almost room level, Cassandra was ready to face down his rebuke when a small, but spirited voice spoke up. "I am actually ten, and I am so excited to be here and I have so many questions for you. I'm Julian, I'm actually a very good wizard. A lot of my teachers couldn't keep up with me and they just didn't want to learn anything new! It was really boring, but now I'm here with the Dragon Commander and I have so many questions." Cassandra turned toward Julian, signaling for him to sit quietly for now. Something that seemed rather rehearsed display as the boy did his best to sit still, Cassandra turned back to Malik than. "I was going to find you a wizard, someone at least intelligent enough to help you. But, this boy broke through the lower level wards without so much as a peep and got past dozens of guards on his own abilities. Truthfully, I caught him because he tried to access the stronger wards and wasn't skilled enough. This boy, as you call him, can become a very powerful wizard in his time.â? Malik looked to the boy once more, julian was swinging his feet back and forth as he seemed to hold back every inch of his excitedness in that small gesture. He looked back to Cassandra with a look she hadnâ??t seen in years. â??If this boy should fall while we are hunting for Corvin, I will hold you personally responsible for it. do I make myself clear Cassandra.â? She held herself up high, her hands folded across her chest in a show of defiance. â??Crystal, Dragon Commander.â? Malik moved away from her then, taking his place at the table with the rest of them as Cassandra stood beside his chair, with Bayel sitting in the chair to his immediate right and Haytham sitting in the chair to his left. â??Welcome, for the two of you who have journeyed far to get here, I appreciate your will to hear my proposal.â? â??I was more interested in what itâ??ll pay out really, your pretty assistant there made it seem very tantalizing. I hope you can deliver on your promises, sir.â? Malik could see that some of the rumors held true about the Virdisian. â??Do not fret, the Dragon Knights always follow through on our promises. Now all of you know of Corvin, I trust.â? â??The Dragon knight who broke away and is doing bad things and trying to hurt people?â? Julian chimed in, sitting a high as he could to be part of the conversation. â??Yes, we have been fighting with him close to ten years now, and though you may hear that the Knights are looking for Corvin and are on the brink of finding him and bringing him to justice. However, this information couldnâ??t be farther from the truth.â? â??Sir, I thought we truly were on the verge of capturing him. My father said that we were pushing everyday.â? Haytham spoke up then, leaning forward in his chair to speak directly to Malik, he turned to look at the slayer. â??All of my advisers were told to keep our endeavours secret. Krom didnâ??t lie, we have been pushing in every way that we can. But truthfully, Corvin knows our tactics well and has managed to avoid us at every turn, we have only met his lieutenants and only in guerilla tactics.â? Malik turned back to the rest of the table, the burden of revealing the truth settled on his shoulders heavily. â??We are at a disadvantage, we may have more resources at our disposal and our allies grow daily but as long as he can keep tearing apart the Knights with fewer casualties on his side. I cannot afford to see more good soldiers die and see no results, so I brought you all here today to give you my proposal.â? Leaning forward now and setting his elbows on the table, his gauntlet hands laced together. â??I propose that all of you, with your individual strengths and prowess, come together to help me with this one duty. I will only ask you of this single task, nothing further will be required of you and any of you can walk away now.â? â??And what would this one â??dutyâ?? be oh great Dragon Lord?â? â??To hunt down and kill Corvin and his lieutenants.â? The silence was deafening in the room as Malik awaited to hear was was to come next. He could see Knight Bayel sitting tall, she was silent to the end and he could only imagine what the spirits said to her. She was going to go with him no matter what he said or did, she was going to follow Malik, and he might as well have a capable Knight. Haytham was slightly stunned by the last sentence uttered from Maliks mouth, a warrior to the end who was more than happy to strike at the heart of his enemy, he would find his voice soon enough. Julian was unsure of what was going on really, he was still star struck by the First Born and seemed to only get enough information to start to understand that their mission was a dangerous one. Garrick let out a curt laugh, breaking the silence finally as he rocked in his chair from the brief insanity that gripped him. â??This is a joke right? You expect a group of five people, none of us who know one another besides that you have called us here to hunt down and kill rouge Dragon knights? You have an entire army at your disposal, and you canâ??t find your wayward kin?â? Malik rose from his chair, his eyes focused on the Virdisian for just a moment before looking to Cassandra. â??Call them.â? With a quick motion of her hands, the doors opened and in walked a score of soldiers with weapons in their hands. Each weapon something different, a sword with a unique twist, an axe that looked barbaric, war hammers, whips with blades attached at the end, and dozens of others were brought in and then set on the table one by one. Each guard who set a weapon down stepped back and stood by the door, lining up into three rows. The weapons couldnâ??t fit on the table in a single layer, others were piled on the other. â??Every weapon you see here, each a tool of destruction or protection, a difference between life and death. Each of these weapons, belonged to one of my knights. Each one, is a fallen comrade in this pointless war. These are all soldiers that I failed, who will not be coming home to their loved ones. Husbands, wives, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters, none of them will see these brave souls ever again.â? Malikâ??s hands balled into fists, the metal scraping lightly. â??I am tired of sitting in this tower playing Commander, listening to ambassadors day in and day out while they die for me, for our cause. I am putting myself on the front lines, I will not watch another brother, another sister fall to Corvin while I sit idly by. You may think this is just my way of alleviating guilt, and you may be right, but whatever the reason maybe, Corvin must be brought to justice.â? Malik let his rising emotion settle, Cassandra held concern in her eyes but her composure remained. Haytham and Bayel knew the stakes, but they had never truly seen the count of fallen knights before. Even Julian an Garrick were at full attention now as they heard the importance and relevance of these weapons. â??I do not ask you to take on this quest lightly, if you wish to leave then you have my blessing and whatever Cassandra has promised you. I do ask that you all understand that this is not just for me, not just for Dragonâ??s Rise, this is for the ones who perished in this conflict. I ask you to fight for them and see this through to the end. I will leave you all to your thoughts, if you wish to continue then meet me in the airship hanger, our journey starts today.â? â??Where will we be going Commander?â? Haytham responded quickly, pulling his eyes away from the littered table and showing a passion burning in his eyes. â??To Babel, the empire's Capital. There have many reports of strange occurrences and claims of sighting a red and gold dragon nearby. That is Corvins dragon form, and if he has been spotted in there before, then someone must have an idea of where he is.â? Malik walked away from the table, the guards parting to clear a path for him as Cassandra remained behind, leaving Malik to walk on his own. OOC: Alright everyone, this is where you get to make the choice of going or not. Once you decided to go to the hanger, climb aboard the airship and we will be off to the empire for our first task. Also, DeLarge, let me know if anything is wrong with the way I portrayed Garrick, he helped move the story along.

The Cast   Dragon Knight Malik- Myself Dragon Knight Bayel- K.G. Dragon Slayer Haytham- Orcus Battle-mage Garrick- DeLarge Wizard Julian- Kayin Cloud     Dragon Knights: The Night Wars     The world was dark and silent, the creatures of the night had settled in for a well deserved rest as they all knew that the sun would be rising in a short time. Everything was at itâ??s darkest, no more sign of either of the two moons that orbited their world, no evidence of any of the brighter stars ever existed. Malik had risen early as he stared at the blackness all around him, no lights were on, no electricity flowed through his quarters nor any illuminating mage fire. He stood without his armor, a sense of freedom without the bonds of his dragon forged armor bearing down on his shoulders. He wore a loose tunic with plain trousers now, clothes he normally wasnâ??t able to wear even in the Battle Tower when walking around. Most claimed it was for his own safety, that he needed to protect himself at all times, that he was their only hope in winning this new war. He didnâ??t believe any of that, they boosted his importance higher than any man should be elevated, he understood he was the First Born, a title bestowed upon him from the first dragon. It was all magical to others, and fantastic war stories to tell around the hearth to troops and commoners alike, but it was just a title and he was just a man with a duty hanging around his neck. His hands were held formally behind his back, a position he had maintained many times before in the folds of the metal of his armor. Standing on a balcony outside his quarters, feeling the air whip around him as he stood several hundred feet above the ground as he closed his eyes and let his arms hang at his sides. Letting the world fade as he tried to remember a better time, when things were less gray, when all he had to deal with was daily reports of supplies needed for the tower, care for livestock and speaking to the dragons who resided with them. He found he couldnâ??t summon the image, no memory coming to mind that was able to pull him away from the present. Another war they would say, another bloody chapter in their history, but they would never understand what this was like, never understand what it was like to fight someone you once called brother, who was your battle sister. He opened his eyes then, the sun was starting to peek over the horizon creating a red glow and pushing the darkness aside. Malik watched as the sun rose, the light cascading over the land as it brought color back to the world. The land around Dragonâ??s Rise was a plains that gave them view for miles, the deep green of the grass and golden color of the wheat shined against the rays of the sun. â??It looks to be a beautiful day my lord.â? The soft voice had caught him by surprise, something she always did very well. People would have liked to believe he could hear her coming, have known she would show up and never be caught off guard, but he was just a man. Though he was always aware of his surroundings on the battlefield, magic and sorcery would always get the better of him if he wasnâ??t careful. â??Yes, it would be, if not for our war.â? Malik didnâ??t look at her, he just kept his eyes on the fields before him. â??You should really put on your armor Tourid Shegul, it is not safe for you." â??It is not safe for any of us Cassandra, not as long as Corvin is free.â? Silence followed as they both stared out toward the sun, seeing everything coming back to life from the cold night. â??Iâ??ve received reports in the night, one of our scouting ships returned from itâ??s patrol. They informed me of another raid by Corvinâ??s forces. The fallen knights had come across one of the villages that we have been recruiting from, Tarrick and Glaive were stationed there.â? Cassandra looked over to him, her eyes only betraying her thoughts for just a moment before she looked away again. â??I hope they fought valiantly.â? â??Tarrick was killed in his sleep, Glaive managed to change and bring down one of them before being killed himself. There is nothing valiant about what we do, as long as we keep this war going, more will die for nothing.â? Cassandra kept herself steeled against the sound of his voice, a mixture of anger and sorrow was caught in the undertone of his words. She turned away and walked over to where his armor stood on the stand, the imposing figure it created and the presence of awe some felt when first meeting him. She noticed then, two new weapons had been placed in the wall rack behind the armor, a war hammer with a large spike on the end of the handle and a Falchion with intricate runes etched into the blade. â??Are these Tarrick and Glaives weapons? Iâ??m surprised you were able to get these.â? She wasnâ??t really, the rack itself was dedicated to the knights who had fallen in this war. She looked at each one carefully, she saw that the wall rack covered most of the wall and it was only a quarter of the way filled. That idea that it was that full already almost broke her heart, dozens of Knights had met their end by their brothers, and with each death, Malik collect their weapon and placed it on his wall. She couldnâ??t look at it any longer, she reached up and pulled the helmet free from the stand and walked it over to Malik. He had remained silent the whole time, not bothering to even look in the direction as he let his mind wander, only coming back to the world as he felt the cold metal touch his bare skin. Looking at the empty face from the helmet staring at him, whispering about the old wars and the lives lost in each one, of the people he knew and died. He took the piece of armor and held it in his hands, only looking at it for a few seconds before turning from the balcony and walking to the stand and started putting on the pieces of the armor. â??I am tired of seeing my knights die Cassandra, this war needs to end it has gone on long enough.â? â??Well if it was that easy I am sure you would have done it yourself years ago Malik. Corvin was an excellent wizard, and with whatever enhancements heâ??s given himself he has hidden himself from me and Teâ??lian. I donâ??t see what you are going to do differently to find him.â? Malik already had the put on the lower half of his armor, clapping on the breastplate and putting on his gauntlets. â??Then let us try something different, he knows how the knights operate, he devised many of our tactics along side me, I need people he doesn't know, that he canâ??t predict like he can us.â? â??Now who would we find for that kind of plan? All we really have here are Dragon knights and the dragons who stayed with you.â? Malik adjusted the straps and buckles on his armor, making sure everything was fitted correctly as he flexed his hands. â??You forget about the slayers sorceress, we made them for this kind of thing. Isnâ??t there one who is related to one of our knights, Kromâ??s son isnâ??t it?â? Cassandra held out her hand and materialized a book in her palm, the size was small but with another quick swipe of her hand and the book grew. She open the cover and started sifting through the pages, coming to a stop and using a slender finger to scroll down the page before tapping a finger on a specific name. â??You are right, but do you really want to include Krom the Unyieldingâ??s son in this? Krom was unstable before we got to him, and we gave him the means to cause immense damage I can only imagine what his son will do.â? â??Krom has grown wiser with time, his son will be an asset to us, he has already proven himself in battle and his Slayer talents have been most effective.â? Cassandra seemed displeased with the idea, she didnâ??t trust the Slayers yet and even less with Kromâ??s son being involved, though he was one of Malikâ??s trusted advisers. â??Thatâ??s well and all, but that still leaves you with the mindset of a dragon knight and a slayer and a sorceress who has been there since the beginning. We canâ??t find him with just that Malik.â? Malik walked across the room to a table in the middle of his quarters with papers scattered everywhere, maps of known boarders, reports of conflicts and encounters all over. He searched through the papers and after several moments of picking through the papers he found a piece of parchment scribbled on and walked it back to Cassandra. Looking over the writing, she raised a brow at him once she had finished reading the paper.   â??Is this a list of Battle-mages? How many are there left after the war?â? â??A lot more than you would think, there are a couple on there I want you to take special interest in. Ollen is someone I know, if he hasnâ??t thrown it in for the easier life heâ??s a valuable asset. There is also a Viridisian iâ??ve heard word about, Garrick I think his name is, make sure he is assessed properly.â? Cassandra held the paper in one hand while pinching the bridge of her nose, her painted eyes closed in a mock frustration. â??Very well, now, anyone else you want or is this disaster in waiting all you need?â? Malik took a few seconds to think, looking as if he was contemplating something. â??Make sure that Knight Moretal is told to meet with me, she seems to have taken upon herself to be my personal guard so she will get that chance in an official manner. Now, can you recommend any sorcerers or wizards who could benefit us?â? â??Why do you need another wizard? You have my power at your disposal, you donâ??t need anything more than me!â? Cassandra seemed offended by his words, he looked to her and tried his best to give her a reassuring smile. â??Of course you are, but Corvin knows your ways as I do, a fresh perspective and different talents will give us the edge. Find me someone for this, and I want you to personally see to this, you are the expert on magic, you will have final say on who is capable.â? Putting her hands on her hips, crinkling the paper in her hands as she let a harsh breath escape her nose. â??Very well then, this will take a few days at least, until the keep yourself occupied.â? Malik bowed his head to her, picking up the helmet he had set aside as he turned to walk out the large double, steel banded doors. â??I will do my best, these ambassadors are a toss up, hopefully I wonâ??t lose it and start tossing them out the tower windows.â? Cassandra felt her heart thump for just a second, his words striking an old memory from a war long over now. She mentally shook herself as she watched the Dragon Commander leave with his cape flowing behind him, his helmet cradled in his arm as he put of his mask of cold iron even though he felt as if the winds of fate were changing for them, and for those he was going to involve in their battle. OOC: Alright everyone, you will all be contact in someway or another by Malik, whether it is by someone sent for you or you are to personally meet with him. How that happens, whether gently or not, is up to you and who gets you I leave to your imagination. Have fun, and see you at Dragonâ??s Rise.

Name: Malik â??The First Bornâ?? Diarmad Age: 39 Gender: Male Race: Human Appearance: [Malik Human] [Armor] Malik is almost never seen without his armor on, though he doesnâ??t wear the helmet while within the confines of the Battle Tower or in the presence of dignitaries or the respective leaders. His armor doesnâ??t have the metal loop hanging over his head and instead of fire wings he has a dull gold cape with black trim and the sigil of the Dragon Knights. His armor is dragon forged, the fiery breath of an original dragon used to heat and temper the metal to give it a unique quality to change with him. Only two sets of this armor are known to exist at this time, one set is worn by Malik, the other by Corvin. [Dragon Form] As time has gone on and Malik has fought and slain other dragons in his dragon form, he has received multitude of scars that has made his dragon form more terrifying and grizzly with metal from his armor replacing scales on his body and adding further protection. Class: Dragon Knight Abilities: Malik is one of the most skilled melee combatants among all the Dragon Knights, proficient in multiple forms of combat including: Single handed weapons,dual wielding, two-handed weapons, ranged weapons, and exotic weapons as well but has left his magic neglected. His magic ability is there, but he hardly uses it and his magic has grown to fit his needs, used as an offensive weapon, but in a way to disorient or confuse his opponent. Whether it be a blinding flash of light, a short dust storm or creating a copy of himself, but any defensive measures are left up to his combat prowess. Motives: Malik fights for everyone in his care, whether it be his Knights waiting for their commander, or the people in the budding town around the Battle tower. His memory is still fresh from the Daemon Wars, and he wishes to never let that level of death ever come again. Snippet: â??You are a most gracious host my lord Malik, thank you for allowing an us and audience.â? Malik didnâ??t say a word as he gestured with one gauntlet handed toward one of the high chairs around the long table. The large ambassador sat down, his lone bodyguard standing a step behind his chair with his eyes focused on the Dragon knight with the occasional twitch toward one of the numerous guards within the room. The ambassador seemed jittery, almost excited to be in Maliks presence but this was a normal feeling for first timers. Especially when they came from a smaller government than the empire, though it was far less often. â??Ambassador Yalin, welcome to Dragons Rise, I imagine that the journey from Gratnia was without an incident.â? Yalin nodded vigorously, the pudgy face of his shaking as a smile grew with genuine excitement. â??Yes, very much my lord. Now, Gratnia would first like to extend itâ??s greatest appreciation for sending a few of your knights to handle the situation we had in the capital.â? â??It was not, we simply did what was right, nothing more.â? â??It truly was, and though we donâ??t have much we would like to pledge our allegiance to-â? Shouting voices could be heard from outside the door, someone yelling at one of the guards before the doors burst open and in walked the slender, robed figure of a man with a strong presences, an arrogant look plastered on his face as he took in the people in the room before settling on Maliks cold face. Malik knew this man for where he hailed from, and that alone was the only desire to have him thrown from the edge of the battle tower. â??Dragon knight, I demand to be seen.â? The look of arrogance and privileged life further clear on his face as he looked to Yalin and gave him a disgusted look. â??This peasant ambassador from one of the backwater governments can wait for the Empire.â? A woman stepped forth then, appearing from nowhere in her magician robes and a fire burning in her eyes brightly. Her auburn hair cascading down her shoulders as her robe seemed to hug her hourglass form, causing the lecherous eyes of the Empresses ambassador, though she seemed to care little. â??Ambassador Loric, do not address the First Born as if he was just another man. You are here purely on his good graces and the fact he hasnâ??t had you killed for your disgraceful behavior is beyond me.â? A sly smile spreading across Loricâ??s face as gave a mock bow toward Malik.   â??Oh do forgive me my lord, Tourid Shegul, I was not aware you would send your traitorous witch upon me.â? Her hands pulled away from her robes, a power welling up inside of her burning with white hot rage. Malik took but a single step forward and laid a single gauntlet hand on her shoulder, he fire cooling instantly as she looked back at the Dragon Knight and stepped off to the side and allowed Malik to approach. â??Loric, you will be given your opportunity to address me when I deem it necessary. You are here on my allowance alone, the Empress wouldnâ??t dare approach this tower without my consent, as I would not approach her capital without proper warning.â? â??Pretty words, but that does not diminish the fact that you have made the empresses most important political figure wait three hours while you meddle with these common and unimportant worms!â? Loricâ??s slender yet perfectly manicured hand had reached out and jabbed a single finger into the armored chest, barely pulling away before hearing the uniform ring of weapons being drawn and the oppressive feeling of magic in the air. His eyes suddenly taking in all the guards who now had swords drawn and had created a circle around the three people, the distinct glow of gold and silver eyes mixed in the gathering of guards. â??Touch the Dragon commander again, and you will be sent home in a pieces and your empress will have to find a new high born lackey to take your place.â? For the first time, since he entered the room to where he stood now in the ring of steel and magic. Malik raised a hand and with another hand gesture and the swords slid back into place and the feeling passed but the circle remained. â??This show of force, as you might call it when you tell your empress later this evening, is of their loyalty and will alone. Trust me, I have tried to get them to leave me be, but I always find them hiding in the shadows or Cassandra trailing behind me. And donâ??t get me started on Knight Moretal, I recall not too long ago she had-â? â??Yes yes, I understand they are always around to protect you Dragon Commander, I hardly see-â? â??I was not finished Loric, despite their existence, I do not need them. In my mind, they protect you from me, for in the eyes of my people and the innocents I protect I remain calm and collected. But, in times of war and away from them all, this floor would be bathed in your blood, for mercy is a luxury I no longer have. Remember that before you stomp into another of my meetings, for it will end differently.â? Malik walked past Loric then, bowing his head to Yalin who stood by, stone still and fear in his eyes. Loric remained frozen in place, remembering the eyes of the First Born and seeing an animal in there he dare not rile from itâ??s slumber.       OOC: Everyone has done a great job so far, Delarge I really enjoyed your race creation. Just going to wait another day before we get the ball rolling. I will hopefully update the backstage with information on the Empire an it's new empress, along with some info on Covin.

Here is some updated information on our world and some key places, it is incomplete right now and will be finished soon. Prominent figures will also be introduced here so you have faces you can reference or use in your posts.   Balera- This is our home world, a planet of diverse environments and creatures of all kinds. Though humans are the dominate species on Balera, it doesnâ??t mean they are the only sentient life on this planet. As we have fought wars and died and bled for one another, we have found other raceâ??s who can come together in times of strife and fear,such as the Virdisians of the deep forests, and the reptilian Quillions of the marshlands. While our weapons remained simple other technologies have blossomed, the most impressive breakthrough was the energy crystals developed at the end of the Daemon wars as it became harder and harder to keep up with the Dragon knights. The engineers of the empire developed aircraft's that harnessed the energy within these crystals to give them lift, and use it to propel themselves through the air. The creation of airships gave birth to a booming economy that could travel great distances in minimal time. While, simultaneously, the energy crystals used for their power was used for more than just powering war machines, they supplied power to peoples homes and businesses, giving them artificial light so they could burn their own midnight oil. These crystals, however, need constant maintenance so they donâ??t explode from the excess energy contained within, and require recharging. The landmass that most of the bipedal races occupy is split into only two continents, but each is only separated by a few hundred miles of ocean and islands dot the sea in between. The empire primarily controls the western continent ,though there is smaller kingdoms within the continent as well. The Eastern land is more mystery these days as exploring has fallen back in priority as the Night Wars escalate with each conflict. They do know that unlike the western continent, which is mostly covered in lush fields, mountain ranges, thick forests and mashlands, the Eastern continent is more barren and burnt from taking the brunt of the magical energies thrown at them during the Daemon wars. Though, lately the Eastern continent has been stirring more, with more merchants and airship pilots reporting rumors of immense creatures and strange tribes living on the magically scarred land.     Dragonâ??s Rise: This is the birthplace of the Dragon Knights and, after the war, became the staging area for all of the knightâ??s operations. Once the war ended, a settlement was born in the night and from there it has grown rapidly into a small city. Several business sprouted up, a general bizarre with shops for magic users, weaponsmiths, armorsmiths and the like, along with housing and small farms on the outskirts of the city. Normal cities would have a wall surrounding the perimeter to provide protection for their homes and business, but Dragons Rise is guarded by a single enormous structure in the center of the city. This is the Battle Tower, standing at a staggering height of 2000 feet and 800 feet wide with multiple platforms on the outsides of the tower with massive ballistas and archer nooks on the lower levels. Within the tower are large archways so that man and dragons can pass through unimpeded. It houses hundreds of knights and slayers along with any who work within the tower, such as trainers, enchanters, blacksmiths, librarians and dozens of other specialists the knights keep closer to home incase the tower is under siege. As this is a staging ground for Malikâ??s army, he has a separate area specifically meant for military purposes and planning along with delegatesâ?? housing and meeting rooms. This area also serves as an airship dock for all of the new arrivals and charging station for long journeys. Below the tower itself, is a sprawling underground cavern with tunnels leading in every direction. These tunnels are left over trenches and walkways from the Daemon wars, which serve as a means of escape or entrance into the tower for the people outside of the cities limits.       Empire of Chuâ??val- Among the Western continent, over 60% of the land is under the control of the Chuâ??valan empire. The empire was not the original form of government founded in this land; in the beginning the land was a scattered collection of warring kingdoms and independent lands. Some were run by iron fist tyrants, others were run by parliaments and senates and everything in between. But each had the same motive: to be the dominate power, so they waged endless wars against one another. Every time an envoy of peace or a summit was called, an event would occur that usually ended in the mass deaths of politicians and their guards. It wasnâ??t until the Daemon Wars had started and nations started to fall one by one, did they start to come together. A single warrior, a commander amongst his people brought many people together; soldiers from the remaining nations swarmed to this figure man, and the common people followed. His name was Chuâ??val. His original home is still a mystery to all who study the history of the empire, but everyone always remembers his incredible ability to lead and inspire all those he commanded. He became the first Emperor Commander, leading his forces into battle against the Daemon army, creating the basic format of military structure for the new and diverse nation. Shortly after creating the Empire and instilling his ideas as the foundation for the future, he was slain in battle by one of the wizards of the conglomerate. With his valiant efforts and his idea of bringing the soldiers of all people together for the greater good, the empire was hence named after the founder, adopting him as their official deity as well. Fortunately, in the infancy of the empire, he had many wives, almost all bearing children and enough of those children survived and had families of their own even in the times of the Daemon wars. Developing from his bloodline, noble families rose in the end of the war and solidified their power amongst the lesser nobles. From the birth of these houses--each able to trace their lineage directly to Chuâ??val--the position of Emperor/Empress arose, which any member of any royal line could become. The current ruler of the empire chooses their successor by any means they deem the correct path, whether it be a favored family, a nephew who has proven himself in either the battlefield or the subtle arts of political manipulations, or any other means. Once chosen, the successor is put through a trial by the Emperor/Empresses current advisers. The trial itself is not revealed until the chosen date that the heir is suppose to be tested, giving the advisors the most accurate way to measure the potential of their future ruler in whatever areas they feel need to be observed. There have only been five rulers in the empire, each has left the office based on the law dictated by Chuâ??valâ??s death stating that no single person could remain in power for longer than ten years. This law has been adjusted as time has went one, gradually extending the time for each ruler as the empire became more and more prosperous. The most recent person to ascend to the throne, did so under suspicious circumstances, with only few knowing the truth behind it. The latest Emperor passed on without leaving a successor named, having died mysteriously himself. This lack of succession left the throne devoid of a commander for several months as a schism was created between the noble families, leaving not just noble bodies, but whole noble bloodlines brought down through subterfuge, blackmail, and political slander. From the ashes of one of the fallen houses rose the new Empress-to-be, Nissa and with her new hatred she bore down on the houses that had not only tried to wipe her family out, but to those who aided or stood by and watched. Through patient planning and perfectly executed tactics and plenty of greased palms, she was able to destroy enough key players by having them outcasted or having their family names eased entirely. Those who were left quickly took a knee before her, some out of fear of their own fates, but many did so in seeing how she had the true potential for becoming the next Empress Commander of the Empire of Chuâ??val. Countries Within Chuâ??val: Seandar Erebias Jaenni Babel- The Capital Country/City   Kardosi Jungle- A dense jungle on the southernmost end of the Western continent, spreading for miles in every direction it is a place of both unequalled beauty and unheard of horrors. Many of the colorful flowers and plants are dangerous in some way, whether it be a toxin they excrete on their pedals, or an airborne pollen that paralyzes you long enough for one of the indigenous creatures to find their new prey. The heart of the jungle houses a rather small and inactive volcano, but there are places where you can still see jets of steam shoot up form the ground where lava tubes are as it flows under the earth. But, in this jungle, there are some who live and thrive amongst the brush and are just as dangerous as the creatures. These tribes vary on where they are located in the jungle, the Carik tribe exists closer to the borders of the jungle as they value trade from both the â??civilizedâ?? world and other tribes within the Kardosi. They are typically seen as the guides inexperienced travelers will hire for simple expeditions or for ill-advised escapades. The Carik people are skilled in deep jungle travel, but only a few are masters at the art of forest walking, known as Seiâ??Calv to all the tribal people. Seiâ??Calv is a fairly unknown skill to most of the world, some describe it as the villagers using the trees themselves to traverse the jungle, either jumping from tree to tree, or traveling he roots of the trees to get to their destination. Others say it is simply experienced hunters and trackers using their training to move as quietly as possible, whatever the truth is, the people of the the Kardosi Jungle hold it close to their hearts. Further into the jungle is the Peotra tribe, they are less seen than the Carik but are clearly distinguishable from each other. The Carik are fairer skinned and wear a mixture of tribal attire which consists of leather vests and britches or tunics and cloth trousers from the empire. The Peotra are darker skinned and are taller people who have very little interaction with the outside world and their attire is as minimal as it gets with several piercings through their ears and nose. The few Peotra that people have learned about understand they are the more skilled hunters and survivalists known about, using the Seiâ??Calv to survive their world as most of the population has learned this skill. They tend to be more hesitant toward outsiders, unless proven in their ways, and even then they keep to themselves without active interaction with others. Towards the heart of the jungle lies two different tribes, one is named the Felites and they are by the far the most tribal of the previous two. They speak no common languages and donâ??t wear any clothes at all, deeming it a blasphemy against their gods as they are one with nature around them as they cover themselves in dirt, mud and ash with primitive, but effective, weapons and tools at their disposal. The final tribe is unnamed, not from a lack of probing for answers with any number of question in numerous languages, but from the apprehension from the tribes of Kardosi who refuse to name them out of an unknown fear. To the best ability of scholars and experts, based on drawings and stories told by all the tribes, the last tribe was an immense power amongst the rest. Having ruled over thirty tribes in the past before an event happened within the unnamed tribe and wiped out almost all of the tribes, leaving behind only the four still living today. The unnamed tribe has lived in exile since that event over a century ago, no sign has been seen of them but many have seen light come for the area where the village rest but dare not approach, leaving it fairly unexplored and the truth undiscovered.   Sablerot- A country in the South-Eastern continent where an exorbitant number of mages and inventors originate from; this has been attributed to the chasms filled with natural magic--albeit largely dark magic-- that were carved into the country during great wars so far passed that tales are no long told of them. Wyldewoods- (About 10% of the western continent, precedes the Labyrinthine Canyon) The Labyrinthine Canyon- a vast expanse of mostly uncharted land. Adventurers go there, but itâ??s so massive--encompassing most of the 40% of the western continent thatâ??s not empire and 40% of the Eastern Continent-- that hardly anyone attempts to traverse it. Because the vastness of this land, the wildlife and ecosystems are as varied as night an day, with some stretches completely comprised of barren deserts, and others of winter wastelands. The Isles- a series of islands scattered throughout the shimmering seas that form a loosely connected nation. The Isles has had a very stable, albeit insular existence. Despite the multitude of races housed in the Isles, the region has seen astoundingly little in-fighting, with most conflict occuring in response to the imperialistic desires of countries on the two continents. They played a small, but significant part in the Daemon Wars, sending in reinforcements late in the war who proved adept at overcoming daemon forces due in no small part to the lack of intel the enemy had on their warcrafts. This holds true even now, with both Malik and Corvin entreating warriors from the Isles to join their ranks as shock troops. However, the Isles officially maintain a neutral stance in the war, and any soldiers conscripted by either side are done so as mercenaries. There is no overarching government ruling the Isles; instead, there are a series of tribes, villages and kingdoms located in the various islands, each having their own set of rules and laws. Many varying cultures exist throughout these islands, from the reserved and fair-skinned Sun Folk to the noble, dark skinned Carribas. Life in the Isles is significantly different from either of the continents-- whereas countries like Shien'la and the Chu'val have strictly defined boundaries between nature and civilization, the people of the Isles live in harmony with the island wildlife. As a result many people possess exotic creatures as pets and neighbors, and every citizen has an inherent connection to wild beasts, even ones in other habitats. Likewise, the Isles possess a multitude of magical and physical arts foreign to other countries. Most are undocumented, but the two most well-known practitioners of their mystic arts are the Phersu and the Beastlings. The Phersu are warriors who endure rigorous training regimens to learn the art of turning one's soul into a weapon. Their soul becomes a separate entity, appearing as a physical amalgamation of the person's beliefs and desires. Once this process is realized, the warrior can manifest their soul in a manner of ways-- an enchanted weapon, a full body armour, or a completely separate corporeal form that fights in lieu of them. The Beastling, having taken the islanders' connection to the creatures roaming the land to the utmost, are able to speak in beast tongues. Using this gift, they can sway beasts to their aid and contact tge patron spirit of any animal, which allows them to take on either a half man, half animal form, or a complete animal form, known as a guardian. The latter is much more difficult to attain, but is equal in power to a dragon.     Persons of Interest: These are people you will either meet or people who will be referenced at some point in time, we all know these names and basic enough stuff about them.     Krom the Unyielding-   Human form: http://www.creativeuncut.com/gallery-15/to-lanselot-tartaros.html Dragon Form: http://images5.fanpop.com/image/photos/27100000/Fantasy-Dragon-dragons-27155051-2560-1600.jpg Also known as Krom the Undying and Krom the Crimsonfang. Born amongst the carnage and ruin of the Daemon War, Krom has known violence since childhood. Both of his parents were claimed by Daemons before he was 10, and thereafter he was forced to survive by fleeing from town to town and feeding on fallen carcasses. His impoverished life did benefit him in one way, however; every pound of devoured flesh enflamed his hatred against Daemons and injustice. When finally he came across the Dragon Knights, Malik recruited him without fail--even though he lacked any military training and his blood stained body left the other knights wary, Malik could feel his tenacity and resolve. Before his training could begin, however, Krom had to be properly fed, cleaned and educated, as his lifestyle had left him malnourished, foul-smelling, and without any education. Although the knights were able to bring him into healthy state, and found Krom a voracious, extremely capable student, there were two things they could not purge from Krom: his taste for raw flesh, and the crimson tint of his blood stained teeth, which earned him his first title, The Crimsonfang. When Krom was finally trained in the arts of war, the Dragon Knights were surprised to find that despite his loathing of all daemons, he fought almost exactly like his mortal enemy. He fought without concern for his own body, and constantly pressured his opponents with swift, precise attacks. Malik recognized the inherent usefulness of this style of combat, but knew that such reckless abandon would ultimately result in Kromâ??s death. He took it upon himself to temper Kromâ??s animalistic prowess so that Krom would be mindful of his surroundings and remember to consider the ends of a battle, not just the moment. Kromâ??s ferocity in both his human and his dragon form--which is truly awesome to behold-- garnered him the trust of all the Dragon Knights, particularly Malik and Corvin, who both sought to use his strength. Corvin appealed to Kromâ??s bloodlust when he decided to rebel against Malik, arguing that Krom would be able to continue hunting down those who had caused his suffering and rule Balera so that none would be forced to face the horrors he had. Krom, however, having grown much wiser and reserved in old age, recognized the folly in Corvinâ??s quest and so declined and remained at Dragonâ??s Rise as one of Malikâ??s most trusted advisor. His loyalty to Malik was only half of the reason he decided to stay, the other being the beautiful family he created during peacetime. He married Basira, a fellow Battlemage who fought alongside Krom during the war who kept Krom in check during some of his darker hours. Although he balked at the idea of marriage, fearing that his lack of a childhood or parental influence would inhibit his ability to raise children, but Basira would not take no for an answer and forced him to marry her. They had Haytham soon after their marriage, when a particularly belligerent Basira took advantage of Krom. Despite the roughness of both parents, they proved devout parents and gave their son the life they both missed out on, while still instilling in him an impressive, and frightening, warriorâ??s spirit.   Agatha the Windwyrm- Appearance: Human form Dragon- http://www.draconika.com/img/green-dragon.jpg Agatha's past is shrouded in uncertainty, as most of her history has been pieced together from scandalous rumors and frightened whispers. What is known for certain is that she appeared alongside Corvin during the Daemon War, and was by his side every moment until he a few months before he deserted. Whatever connection the two shared has long since eroded-- Agatha has tried countless times to murder Corvin herself in battle, and has revealed countless of Corvinâ??s secrets to Malik. Despite the air of mystery surrounding her, Agatha is not unkind or reclusive. She can often be seen mingling with the people of the city around Dragons Rise, and often offers advice and mentoring to her new allies (if they are deemed worthy). In battle she prefers to stay back and study her opponents before engaging them in battle. She will scrutinize their every action until sheâ??s found a way to exploit their weakness, and then will proceed to shame her opponent ruthlessly in combat. Indeed, her tendency to employ tactics that demoralize her opponents, as well as her willingness to enact strategies that will cost allied lives in the short run but will ensure overall victory also earned her the title Agatha the Cruel. Morgan Leffae- Appearance: http://i1280.photobucket.com/albums/a491/Robert_James_Mediavilla/MorganLeffay_zps35cc218a.jpg A prodigious wizard from the country Sablerot. Morganâ??s parents were some of the leading magicians who worked on the creation of the crystals toward the end of the Daemon War. To test the extent of the magical power of the crystals, as well as to examine further usages for the crystals, they embedded a prototype crystal inside of their sonâ??s heart. The result was a child who could create new forms of magic without the diminished effect most improvised spells endure. Even though Morganâ??s parents treated him like an experiment most of his life he had inherited their inquisitive minds, and so enjoyed the tests he was subjected to. Unfortunately, this warped his perception of life, and he now believes that his only purpose in his life is to further his abilities and to be as â??uniqueâ? as possible. To this end, he actively seeks out capable opponents, avoids any conventional magical training and puts himself in harms way to develop new abilities and insights. While this is particularly detrimental to his longevity, his body has responded to the danger by giving him the ability to mimic permanently spells that bring him close to death. Despite being quite the wild card, he is completely loyal to Malik and is a devastating presence on the battlefield.       Amirah the Divine- Appearance: http://www.creativeuncut.com/gallery-25/igau-wonder-woman-regime-concept.html The first Dragon Slayer ever christened by the first born, and the leader of all Slayers created since. Prior to becoming the first Dragon Slayer, Amirah was royalty-- the warrior queen of Jibril, a once flourishing country straddled in the Labyrinthine Canyons that exists now only in history books. She led her forces against an endless horde of daemons alone, as the Empire did not view Jibril as a necessary asset and refused to send troops to her aid. Even without the aid of the Empire, however, she and her army held the daemons at bay until the creation of the Dragon Knights. Amirah immediately entreated the Dragon Knights for help, and she and Malik, who did not share the Empires imperialist notions of what made life important, formed a truce. A division of the Dragon Knights marched toward Jibril, but were detained by the mysterious and dangerous landscaped littering the Labyrinthine Canyons. When finally they arrived at Jibril, every city, every building, was razed to the ground. Only one thing remained in the entirety of the country-- Amirah, sitting atop a mountain of corpses, both human and daemon, gazing up into the infinite sky. She was escorted back to the Empire and offered a place as a Dragon Knight. She steadfastly refused, believing the Dragon Knights were partly to blame for the destruction of her lands. She lived quietly in the Empire for years, doing naught but training and drinking until the Night Wars began. Corvin attempted to purchase her services first, but she simply engaged him in combat. She was able to land a flurry of devastating blows to Corvinâ??s human form, but once he transformed she could not match him in strength. Malik, feeling remorse for her hardships and wishing to give the warrior queen a chance to have her vengeance, offered her a gift beyond her wildest imagination; he made her the first Dragon Slayer. Her rage against dragonkind and dragon-touched has not lessened over time, and she often avoids dragons and Dragon Knights unless absolutely necessary. Although she is currently allied with Malik and his brethren, she is more than prepared to strike them down if they step out of line. She views her fellow Dragon Slayers like family, though, and would fight to the death for them. Interestingly, despite having ruled over Jibril for as far back as any living person remembers, she still retains her youthful beauty and vigour. The nature of this seeming immortality is unknown.     Cassandra-http://i1280.photobucket.com/albums/a491/Robert_James_Mediavilla/Cassandra_zps5b81bb85.jpg One of the most well known and powerful users of magic, she was and still is the direct successor of the mage Teâ??lian. She spent many restless nights and grueling days learning her art to the finest detail and showed the greatest aptitude for magic out of the other 12 wizards and sorceresses who were apprenticed to Teâ??lian.  Cassandra has also pioneered many utility techniques that the growing magic community uses to this day, such as mage fire for lighting homes too far from the primary generators in the cities. She also created and perfected magics that were used during the daemon war, ones that were able to lure the daemons into traps by manipulating their minds and allowed her to use more devastating offensive abilities to tear through the ranks. But, she eventually developed more potent and earth shattering powers, ones that could pull material from the earth to create weapons or to turn water into acid; she even developed one whereby she could pull the souls from the very bodies of their victims and attach them to their living master. These techniques, and many more like them, she kept close to her heart, never releasing them to anyone else for fear of the damage they could create. Though Cassandra keeps a hard exterior and does everything she can to keep others out of her heart, she still remembers being a young girl who was woken from her bed one night as her house was burning. Her father pulled her from her bed, covering her up tightly as the sound of metal clashing and the scream of her mother falling to a daemon rang out into the night. Her father ran as fast as he could, until he could no longer run and instead he hid his daughter and took a final stand. He met his end on the end of a stream of fire, which left nothing but ash in his place, as one of the dark wizards had murdered him in cold blood. Soon enough the dark wizard found Cassandra hiding away as well. She will always remember the look in his eyes as he prepared to destroy her like her father, only for him to be interrupted by the deafening sounds of daemons dying and a inhuman roar. The wizard fled in fear, leaving only little Cassandra and a group of soldiers pulling her free from her hiding place. Two  particular faces from this night would always stick with her-- the young but serious face of Malik Diarmad, and the face of the wizard she found after her training and would later kill with the same kind of fire used to kill her father. Since then she has devoted her power and time to furthering Malikâ??s, and subsequently her own, goals.

This is an area for both questions and information updates, I will be posting the information on the different classes here so you can get a better understanding of what you are getting into.     Class info:   Dragon Knight: Dragon Knights are direct disciples of dragons themselves, given powers from the ancient creatures. All Knights are trained in the art of swordsmanship and all have simple magic at their finger tips. But, their strengths can differ as Knights can be either heavy magic users or experts in melee combat. Knights, like Malik, specialize in field combat with only minor offensive and defensive spells to supplement his prowess. But, above all that separates them from the rest of the world are their long life and their ability to change into dragons. They are also given the ability to read minds at will, which gives them a stronger will against dragons invading their own minds. Slayer and Dragon knights all have a resistance to the ability, but stronger minds can over take almost any trained mind, Corvin was one of these powerful minds.   Knights can wear any armor they choose, but are limited by what kind of weapons they can use by the amount of training they pursue, the same goes for magical ability if they went down that avenue. Dragon Slayers: A new breed of warrior, given talents like the Dragon Knights, able to read minds, have great proficiency with most weapons and have magical abilities of their own. The greatest difference is Slayers cannot become dragons like the knights, but this doesnâ??t put them at a disadvantage as they make up for it by honing the rest of their skills. Unlike knights, they choose to hone one skill above all else, soaring above the rest in skill in this one area and lets the others fall to the wayside. They can be proficient swordsman, magic wielders, powerful summoners, or flawless bowmen but all learn how to be perfect assassin and subterfuge agents. Dragons may have the raw power some seek, but Slayers can bring down any dragon with the element of surprise, and they work for most of the lives to obtain their skills. They have silver eyes that distinguish them, while Knights have golden eyes that separate the two. Slayers are like knights when it comes to armor, as it will vary on what they choose to specialize in. All Slayers are proficient with a short sword, as it is the only weapon they constantly carry with them. Battlemages: A mixture of magic user and fighter, created during the Daemon Wars, these soldiers had a potential for magic and were enhanced and engineered by the defected wizard. These soldiers didnâ??t have much magic at their disposal but they were able to use it to enhance their weapons for offensive use or to use defensive spells to shield them from further harm. They are special in that they can switch from defensive and offensive enhancement spells at will, and they could create new ones on the fly but they proved to be erratic and could be spectacularly effective or completely useless so this is more a last resort. Battlemages, however, can pick up any weapon and know how to use it without any training and charge into battle all the same. Battlemages typically wear medium armor (such a chain mail or scale mail) or even light armor if they are more defensive mages then offensive. As stated before, they can carry and use any weapon they can hold in their hands, whether ranged or melee. Wizards/Sorcerers: The first true Wizard amongst the empire was Teâ??lian, a powerful wizard who was an excellent summoner and could manipulate the energies within someone to give enhance a natural gift. All wizards who had come after him can hardly even attempt the same things he could, but all could still perform great feats of magic with relative ease after some significant training. As all wizards and sorcerers could perform spells of fire and ice, they all had their own specializations as well. Some were better summoners, able to pull creatures from other worlds to provide assistance; others could create massive thunderstorms that rained lighting and hail on their enemies and others found their spontaneous magic lacking but their ritual strengths beyond imagining with infinite possibilities. But they took time, some only hours and others could take weeks to execute but always followed with devastating effects. Wizards traditionally wear robes or very light armor, such as cloth or light leather. All wizards can cast offensive spells, but they must carry a spell book in order to cast greater spells in their specific field. Ritual driven wizards memorize dozens of rituals and rites but have to keep with them the materials used for the rituals themselves, though they can improvise with diminished effect.     If you have any questions or any ideas for what you would like to see then please message me ahead of time and we can work it out.

This Rp will contain, but not limited to, language and graphic violence.   Dragon Knights: The Night Wars When it all began, we were just humans; we were just people fighting to stay alive. At the time we thought it was just how we were suppose to live, to crawl and struggle and squirm our way through our downtrodden existence. To bite, claw, tear, rip and fight one another for some resource or for some plot of land someone had laid claim to, or to fight for someone elseâ??s love. It was all mayhem them, everything about it was madness and the only outcome that followed for people like us, was death.  For mortals, the only thing that awaits us as we ran out on to battlefield after battlefield, bloody conflict after bloody conflict was the tip of cold steel and the unforgiving boots as the living tramped over the dead. This was one of the darkest times in our history, a time before we had been granted our powers and abilities to serve more effectively in these constant battles. It started in the War of Daemons, a time when we were thrown into the trenches with creatures that never existed on our plane until a conglomerate of dark wizards had come together and unleashed the horrors on the world. We fought, and we died the same as any battle, but this time, we found we were the only ones who were dying. The daemons we fought, they were hard to wound, and even when we did bring them down, they rose only moments after to renew their fight. No matter how hard we tried, we could not kill them swiftly; we could only bring them down when torn to pieces. This required more attention, and this claimed more soldiers then anything before. We left ourselves open, their ranks easily swept through many battalions and for once, we looked as if we would fall to dark magic and the swinging sword arms of unholy creatures. But, it would seem our luck would change in this war, a wizard from the conglomerate defected from their group. Hunted and alone, he was ripe for the picking and only the instincts of the Emperor Commander at the time were the only thing to save that manâ??s life. He returned the favor readily, spilling secrets he could to help us combat the darkness spreading across the world. He even supplied his own magic to imbue our weapons with strength against the daemons, and at first it was effective and we tore through the daemons with ease. But, it lasted only a short while before they enhanced their daemons to resist the magic. Then they unleashed greater creatures upon us, and we struggled further to fight the ever pushing army of evil. The wizard, who we knew as Teâ??lian, tried his best to help our forces, giving us every advantage, he even found soldiers who had the potential for magic and enhanced them to give us an entire battalion of battle mages. He even took a few and tutored them to practice magic as he did; they learned the grander spells where our battle mages learned the art of war magic. But, even these new soldiers and new means of combat, we still raged against the darker side that seemed able to resist our efforts after considerable amount of time. Our biggest struggle was the wizards who controlled the army and more specifically, their leader who simply had the title of Zodiac. His ability to command the minds of all his troops was staggering, and his prowess in the field of magic easily kept us at bay, and foiled many attempts to put agents in his ranks. At this time, the war had been raging on for over twenty years, children had been born and raised into this war and knew how to fight from the moment they could hold a sword. Teâ??lian had spent almost a decade perfecting a new ritual he had been working on for us, something he kept very much under wraps. He worked on it alone; none of the other mages assisted him, not even his most talented apprentice, his chosen successor was allowed near the project. None of us were ready for what came next, a burst of light, a sudden explosion of pressure that sent us all to our feet. I remember being there at this time, I was still very young, but I had seen more blood and bodies then any man should ever see. I had watched my comradeâ??s die, fall to protect an ideal that many of us were forgetting about and embraced the art of war. When I stood on my feet, my weapons at the ready and my eyes vigilant, we all looked around trying to find the source. I ran toward where the wave had come from, suspecting at the time it was some horrible experiment gone wrong. Little did I know, that this would change the course of my life, and the course of history as we knew it. When I had arrived, others had followed as well, but I was the first to push forward and when my eyes befell it, I nearly fell to my knees in awe and in fear I had never known. Teâ??lian was standing there before a great beast, scales covering its body and the massive talons showed from its front appendages. Great wings with leathery membrane in between the digits spread wide in the air; the massive head was long and horned with great big emerald eyes shining down on the old wizard. I could see the scaled lips on the creature move, its mouth opening and closing at it spoke a language I could not understand. But the Wizard seemed to know what was going on, as I could hear him respond in the same language. I recall him turning then, looking out to the crowd that had gathered. His words rang out to us clear as day, and they rang with the sound of hope â??All of you gathered here now, you have come because you have been called by one greater then myself. Behold, the product of years of tireless work, I show you the first and only dragon of our time. With him, there will be more who come in time, and they will sail through the sky and rain fire on our enemy. But, that will take more time, for I have brought one of their very eldest and wisest of their kind. He calls upon you to come before him, and in return he shall grant you something greater than any man will ever have.â? I know all who could see the great dragon felt hesitation and reluctant to step before this creature, its sheer mass and alien look was enough to make everyone cautions to its words. But, I remember that day, and I remember how something pulled and tugged at my mind and I could feel something greater. I let my legs take me then, moving forward as I approached the dragon, my fear had washed away and all I felt was an overwhelming sense of calmness. When I stood before the wizard, he simply smiled at me and stepped aside as the creature looked down at me with its large eyes and snout. Its lips did not move this time, but I heard its words regardless, echoing in my mind as it spoke to me. â??Mortal, I could feel your mind from here, you were one of many thousands I had probed for but the only one who had stepped forward. I can see it was not the enticement of the gift I will grant, but something more. You shall become my first Dragon Knight, for upon you I grant powers that shall change your existence hence forth.â? My mind was suddenly ablaze with life; information rushed forward as I suddenly knew everything about the dragons and the world he had come from. I knew everything the dragon itself knew; it was all laid bare before me and soaked into the depths of my mind. It was one of the single most painful experiences of my life and simultaneously, the most pleasurable. With the knowledge, I found I could read the minds of others around me, picking up thoughts at will, I discovered later I had a small understanding of magic at my disposal. It couldnâ??t compete with the magicâ??s the battle mages or the real wizards knew, but, I was given another gift that they would never have. In the moments the information had taken over my mind, my body had shifted and changed and in mere seconds I was a creature of only a slightly smaller size then the dragon we all saw. My wings were the same, I had the same four appendages and a tail for balance, my appearance however, was different with more scares and glowing blue eyes instead of emerald. The change only lasted a few moments, as I stretched my wings and roared my body returned to its natural state. As I tried to understand everything going on, the dragon spoke once more. â??This gift, the form of a dragon, can be passed to others, but only to those worthy of the power should be handed this tool. For if it falls into hands of dark users, everything could be undone, for with the ability to become a dragon, comes our longevity and knowledge as well. Choose wisely your first guard of Dragon knights, and go forth now, as the Tourid Shegul, the First born.â? I chose several to be knights, near to one hundred different soldiers were paraded before the dragon and almost all were turned away. At the end, only a handful were considered worthy of being Dragon Knights, and that day changed the war as that day a dozen dragons rose into the air and rained fire and destruction upon the daemons. There was nothing the wizards could do against our new rage and power and in a matter of weeks; we did what we hadnâ??t been able to do in over two decades. In one year, we had move the frontlines miles from our last bastion and took back the land one battle at a time. In that same time, more dragons had pushed their way into our world, using their own strengths to further our war. We finally had let hope seep into our bones, risked the pain that could have struck at any time but we hoped on anyways. Three years after our alien allies had arrived in our time; we had pushed the daemon army back to the stronghold of Zodiac and his followers. We stormed his fortress, stamping out all resistance that followed, in both our dragon and human form. I was there when Zodiac was captured and the war brought to an end after almost thirty years and was officially brought to an end with the execution of Zodiac and the rest. But, history has a way of repeating itself, treachery and betrayal followed not long after the war as a new group of darkness decided that our world was for the taking. This new hand of evil that appeared was one of the saddest moments in my life and duty as it was some of my fellow Dragon knights who turned from us. Seeing our abilities as a reason for us to rule and conquer the world as we saw fit, Corvin led them with a ferocity only shown in the Dragon Knights themselves. In the short time between wars, we had seceded from the empire and the Emperor Commander so that out powers could not be used to enforce his rules and laws. Surprisingly, he had agreed with our decision and we were awarded our own land where it had all started, and there we constructed our own battle tower there. We had created a safe haven for both our knights and the dragons that roamed our world without a home. Corvin had been my second, and literally the second knight born into our world, he was pure of heart then, and even now he was pure in his own mind. But, he had forgotten our true purpose, and thus began our new battle, this began the Night Wars. That was almost ten years ago now; this war has been more of attrition rather than a steady push in either way. We lost men, I lost knights as they did, we even lost dragons to carelessness and careful planning. And in that time, I created a new warrior to battle the Dragon knights who had fallen so far, I named them Dragon Slayers.   They were different then the knights, they could not take the form of a dragon like we could, but they had all the mental ability and strength against the inquiring minds of both knights and dragons themselves. They were also taught in all forms of both combat, taught both how to use the sword in the field of battle and the art of subterfuge and subtleness. They knew only magic that helped their fight, ways to heal and enhance their own strengths, but this made them great in their ability to bring down Dragon knights in any form. They were given a single purpose, something driven into them like it was driven into the knights before. Their goal was to vanquish the dark ones, destroy the Knights who had turned and the dragons that had been swayed to fight for Corvin. For now, we fight on every avenue that can possibly be fought, and for this I have gathered soldiers from every aspect of the wars we had fought. Battlemages, Wizards, Dragon Knights and Slayers alike and I found a handful who became my council of war. We even had ambassadors from the Empire, all of different houses who came to our tower with many agendas, to seek favor from us, to find out our secrets, or to even bring us back into the empire. No matter their reasons, I need them all for if we are to win this battle, Iâ??ll need everyone for this fight and we will do everything we can to make sure the Night war ends like the last, with Corvins head on a pike. I am Malik, the First Born, and with your help, we will bring peace to the world once more.     Welcome to Dragon Knights: The Night Wars, itâ??s been a pretty extensive trip and so much blood has been spilled in the history of this world and even more will fall as Dragon knight fights Dragon knight and Slayers make their show of force in the world. This will be different because we already know who the enemy is, we already know our goal but getting there will be the struggle we all get through. I want as much diversity in this group as we can possibly get, so I am limiting how many of each will be available. As I will be playing the position of a Dragon knight, I will allow one other Knight, one Slayer, a Wizard and Battle mage. However, if you wish to be someone like one of the ambassadors or something not listed here message me and tell me your idea.   Now, for the fun part of the whole endeavor, the sign-up process, this will also not be based on first come first serve, if multiple people want the position then the best writer will be given the spot. Name: Age: Gender: (men and women are dragon knights and slayers alike.) Race: (This is a fantasy world, and it was controlled by a sprawling empire that has gathered different kinds of people, if you have a specific race in mind go for it just message me before hand.) Appearance: (Most of you, I will only need your everyday appearance, for the other dragon knight I will need a description of your dragon form as well.) Class: (Are you another dragon knight, slayer, battle mage or wizard? Or something else entirely.) Abilities: (No matter whom you are, Knight or slayer, we are all skilled in only a limited things. Are you more of a magic wielding knight, a slayer who is better at wading into battle or killing from behind? As a battlemage, did you focus on magic to enhance your weapons or something to launch at people as you swung your sword, be creative.) Motives: (Everyone, no matter who you serve or where you hail from, something motivates you in this war. Is it the desire to do good for everyone, or is it to get your name remembered for all time, or is it something darker?) Snippet: (Our entire lives have been embroiled in war and conflict, we donâ??t have much personal history but you can give something of your daily life. What kind of training do you do, what is your role in the tower, what are your connections to the knights if you arenâ??t one or a slayer. Anything will do here, just looking at ability.)

Barracus' change had been swift, a very different feeling for the Lich as he was in his desicated form with minimal effort. He felt different now, he felt more powerful, he felt a strength seeping into his bones and a vigor he hadn't felt in centuries. He moved quickly with the others as Dark was pushing the ash away with the blasts of wind, fireballs being hurled as well to shatter skeletons. While, it seemed an effective effort without a second thought, but the blasts seem to only scatter the lost ones and the dust continued to creep forward with all the effort expended to keep it at bay. The dust on their clothes and skin was feeling heavier by the second, with each attempt to swipe it away it clung with an unimaginable amount of strength. Barracus had tried to shake it off himself, only to find it still hanging tight before his mind had a thought and called forth his power. His power seemed amplified, a sneaking suspicion that the arm he had collected was providing the extra support, even though it had not done so before. For now, he wasn't going to question it as he peeled the fine layer of vampire dust from his body and sent it whirling back into the tunnels. Gripping his staff firmly in his hand he started to fall to the rear of the pack, Dark hurling more fire and wind down the tunnels at their pursuers.   "Nos postulo ut tentaret novam daemon." (We need to try a new approach daemon) Dark looked over his shoulder briefly before lobbing another ball of fire down the tunnel.   "If you have any suggestions Lich then I am all ears, but this seems to be working well enough." The Lich cracked a small smirk, his skin wrinkling and cracking from the effort.   "Bonum, tu me intellegant." (Good, you understand me.) Barracus looked down the tunnel as they made another turn, the dust suddenly roaring forward as the assault stopped long enough to push forward, shapes pulling themselves back into form upon the temporary reprieve from the hail of fire and storm of wind.   "Permitte mihi daemon, habeo ideam velim implorare." (Allow me daemon, I have an idea I wish to implore.) Dark stepped aside with fire waiting to lash out, though Barracus was sure it wasn't going to be necessary any longer. Holding out his staff, the black stone atop the staff pointed down the tunnel and he summoned the power with a sudden flood of energy as he let it flow free. The dust suddenly halted in its tracks, thought it did not recede away from them it remained stationary as long as he focused on it, the smirk cracked on his face once more as they all kept moving, Barracus walking backwards as he followed them, the dust following still but at a greater distance now. He could hear someone voice from the head of the party.   "Well that's a nice trick, wish you had done it earlier."   "Hoc enim non conceditur."   "what did he say? Can anyone understand him when he gets like this?"   "He said don't look a gift horse in the mouth." Dark piped up then, extinguishing the fire in his hand as they kept moving. Barracus keeping the barrier up as the dust tried to claw at the invisible wall, the skeletal remains forming once more but not daring to draw any closer. One, however, allowed it's inner animal to take hold and lunge at the barrier, passing through it but instantly charring into a solid mass before completely dissolving into nothing. None tried after that, the trip suddenly seeming like it was going to be a smooth venture from this point forward as Barracus held fast.   "Velocius movere oportet, quamdiu poteris nescio talem formam."   "What did he say now?" This time, he identified the voice as Akieen herself.   "He says we should move our asses." The group began to move faster, another turn here and another turn there, Barracus following as quickly as he could while holding the undead back. It all seemed to be going well until he felt the surge begin to fade within, the barrier still held strong but it began to grow smaller and the lost clan took advantage of it. A few more launching themselves into the invisible bubble and evaporating like the ones before, but it was getting more difficult to maintain the power now. Barracus was growing concerned as this shouldn't be happening, only a few things could interferer with his power and the realization of what it could be made his withered lips pulling back in a snarl.   "Satus currit, impedimentum deficiente!" (Start running, the barrier is failing!) Barracus turned then and started to run, the barrier following him but he could feel it was starting to collapse around him and the party.   "I don't need a translation to know what he's doing, everybody move!" Akieen was in the lead as Barracus hung in the back, Mikhail and Baldr we're near the originator, Kayin was with the weredragon and Dark held the rear with him. The barrier finally failed as the power waned within, he knew he had enough for direct attacks as he whirled around for just a moment to launch a blast of sickly green darkness at the lost coven. The unfortunate creature let out a shrill screech before evaporating like the others. The light soon appeared, the way out of the damned underground as they all put their effort into running to the outside. As they broke into the fresh air, they all felt a sense of relief, the dust on their bodies floating away without a problem now as the creatures remained within the tunnels. It was a small victory, but one they needed none the less, Barracus was the only one to not let himself relax in the slightest. The sanctuary wasn't far now, but his mind was on more then just the safety of the angel haven, Allister was sure glad to be out of the dampness and near the sanctuary. They all continued forward, Barracus' eyes shifting around as he quested with his power to try and find him, the one he knew was around and had finally found him. His questing was answered as he was picked up and thrown through the air, the open area they had come too had given him ample room to fly and land in a heap. Charles appeared instantly, manifesting from nothingness as he stood near his master with the horsewhip in hand, the others turning to see where it had come from. He tried his best to rise but felt weakness spreading now, his plan having worked too well and he looked to the party and uttered the only word he knew he could speak plainly to them.   "Death!" The others were readying themselves as they let their powers come free, the were creatures changing form and the energy was flowing freely. The combination of positive and negative energy form them all was enough to help Barracus recover, and just in time to feel his trophy start to twitch and move within the bag he carried. He gripped his staff in his hand tightly as he saw Charles react, the whip was raised and lashed out instantly snagging something as Charles pulled hard on it. Whatever it was, showed greater strength and yanked Charles off his feet, Barracus watched with indifferent eyes as the 2nd appeared and tore his undead minion in half with little effort. His eyes only looking down to the stump on the 2nd's arm before coming back up and looking into the single orange eye of the 2nd.   "You have returned at last, I was wondering how long it would take you to find me." The 2nd had no expression on his face, but his eye showed his hatred for him and the want of his arm back. Barracus held up the arm in his bag, shaking in a taunting matter.   "This is what you desire, but you will not be needing it after today 2nd." A snot came from the other Lich.   "You shall be the one to die today 4th, we will make sure of it." Barracus felt it then, the second presence of another he hadn't expected to see quite yet. Another desicated form appeared, his left eye a solid blue and his right a solid green, Barracus squeezed his staff tighter.   "3rd, I see you cowered out and called in help. Afraid I am going to destroy you like last time since your vampire isn't around?"   "Hardly Barracus, both of us wish you dead, and Rasputin has made it possible. Your companions will be of no help to you, they will be busy with other matters."   "It is of no consequence, I will defeat you both today. You simply saved me the trouble of finding both of you, I hope Rasputin welcomes your ashes!" Barracus struck then, launching a bolt black lightning tinted with the necrotic green. The 3rd stepped in the way, reaching out with a lengthy arm and creating a shield with a purple hue that the bolt crashed into and pushed the 3rd back. Barracus moving with the opportunity, the inky blackness obscuring their view long enough for him to launch another blast. The effort failed as the 2nd shielded them form it this time, Barracus trying is best to launch out more but found his tactic was in vein as they blocked and batted away his assaults. With their combined power, one shielded from the blast and another started to launch their own attacks, Barracus had to move and throw up his staff to break the attack. He couldn't get his bolt out anymore as all his energy was going into defense and evasion, Charles would be of no use as he would simply be destroyed once more. Barracus felt his options running low, but he wasn't going to die today if he had any say in the matter. His chances improved quickly a she suddenly saw a blast of pure lighting arch at the pair, the power was deflected but it changed their attention as Barracus saw the half-demon free of whatever had tried to trap them. However, he was the only one he saw was free a the time, and though he hadn't asked for the help he wasn't going to complain about it as he sent out his own bolt of black lightning.   "I will take both of your power today! Your lives are mine!" The effort was even now, the shielding and attack tactic was proving to leave them at a stalemate as Barracus provided the shielding and alternating attack while Kayin assaulted with full force. Barracus growled as he held the shield, feeling them pound down on them before suddenly the fire stopped. Both were ready to lob their attack when they saw both Lichs form a channeled beam and Barracus held up both hands to create a greater area of shielding. The beam smashed into him and pushed him back as Kayin stayed within the shielding, but the 4th could feel his strength waning as the concentrated effort form them both was breaking down his wall. He grunted as the staff in his left hand gave extra support, but it was draining quickly and time was running out.   "Lich! I can't see them to fire back, we need a new plan!" Kayin roared over the sound of black energy smashing into the barrier and Barracus had only one idea as he dropped his hands, the barrier vanishing as he swiped one hand toward Kayin creating the same barrier to push the half demon away as he moved himself out of the path of the beam just fast enough to dodge it. He charged then, the staff held out as he raced forward, his corpse form moving with all the speed and grace of a living being and found a target as they both pulled away from the beam. Barracus' staff collided with the 3rd square in the chest, the black stone piercing into the broken flesh and jamming itself into his chest cavity.   "You're mine." The power surged through the staff, a wail erupting from the lips of the 3rd as the black energy poured into his body and filled him entirely. The power that laid in his chest resisted and fought, but failed as it was consumed by the blackness, Barracus felt the change in power as his eyes changed color then, one solid blue the other solid brown as he took his new position in the ranks. The body of the 3rd was ripped apart as the blackness pushed its way out of every orifice and ripped the skin and bones apart until all the remained was a black mass that dissolved away. Barracus turned to attack the 2nd, only to be met with a wave of black wave that smashed directly into the face of Barracus and tore away some of his head before sending him tumbling several feet away and laying on the ground. He struggled but th new power raged in his body and he needed to time for it to adjust, he was too weak to fight back now as he climbed to his knees and couldn't go any further. His eyes saw only the feet before him as he tried to reconstitute the shambles of his head, finding the process sluggish and almost painful.   "You were never going to defeat me 4th, I will have my rightful place as the 1st." Barracus waited for the end to come, looking up to make sure that his killer could see the defiance in his left over eye and the rebuilding head as Barracus gritted his teeth at him. The hand rose, and the he could feel the power grow as it was about to be unleashed when another body crashed into the 2nd, sending the two toppling in a close quarters fight claws and teeth ravaging and tearing at the body as the 2nd fought back. The fight ended with the 2nd flat on his back in pieces, and the solid form of Mikhail standing over him with his shoulders lifting up and down. His skin was torn and blood running fresh down his back and arms, Barracus rose and hobbled over to the 2nd laying on the ground and a wicked grin on his face as he stood over the broken Lich.   "In the end, I will always win and I will be the 1st." Barracus was about to plune his staff into the broken body when he felt a clawed hand grasp his staff, his eyes looking to the werewolf holding him back.   "We should question him, he has spoke to Rasputin." Barracus looked hard at the creature before him, his only desire was to spear the corpse below him and take his place but things seemed to have grown more, complicated.   "I had one task for you Mikhail, you have done well, but it seems you are no longer willing." The wolfs eyes grow wide as his muzzle pulled back.   "You speak English now? About damn-" The attack was sudden, the power brutal as the power struck from right under his chin. The black stone of the staff pressed into the lower jaw and sent the necrotic power upwards, eating away at the steel like skin with his new power and then blasting into his brain. The energy bouncing around and eating everything as it dissolved within his skull, the werewolf crashing to the ground in a heap as the eyes stared empty into the world. Barracus turned to the 2nd then, fire burning in his eyes and he slammed the staff into the 2nd, the same process happening as Barracus took his power as well. Feeling the power burn brighter and flowing freely in his veins, the 2nd's body dissolving like the last before Barracus' eyes went to the now human form laying on the ground. His body restored, he held up the staff and summoned the black energy to carry the large man and turned to walk away to find the group and tell them of their companions demise by the hands of the 2nd.

"You understand you are all idiots right? Everything about this is wrong!" Croix screamed as he was pacing around the lab in a constant state of frustration and tapping away at the tablet in his hand and making his way to desks and hitting keys as quickly a she could. The faces of his team was a mixture of stunned for the new ones, annoyance from the more seasoned employees and finally the veterans who had stayed with Dr. Magnus the longest simply ignored his words and moved out of his way when he pounded on the keyboards before returning to work.   "I know I know, it's just amazing that any of them get out of bed let alone get anything done. You wouldn't believe the complex theory we are working on today, you see...." Croix drowned on from there, speaking as if he was to someone else entirely as he went into full details about his entire work of the past month and quickly started to break further and further down into talking about other projects that had long since been completed and how they connected to this current one. Their current theory was the, newly formed, Theory of Manifestation, the idea of other forms or energy types rapidly and purposely giving themselves life through whatever means they decided. Whether it was through a physical object on their material plane, and idea created to implant it's thoughts and feelings into a mechanical or organic being or simply willing themselves into existence. The idea was hard to prove, and by hard others saw it as impossible idea to prove, but Croix didn't let that control his path, his mind was in a thousand different places and each would give him a new piece of the puzzle.   "Bloody hell, this whole equation is flawed. We need to start again, no mistakes, this party is getting in the way."   "I'm sorry Dr. Magnus, but we need to take a break. This is a monumental task you are asking of us, we need time. You can't just start screaming and pounding away at out desks because we-" He was cut off as Croix swiftly moved across the room, his full attention on the young man who had spoken up. The tablet having fallen to his side as he looked at the scientist and tried to understand what he was really trying to do, or what was going on in his mind. Anger was not something he experienced, he was simply in a state of curiosity at all times and frustration followed with minimal break through. His tablet came back into view, tapping and sliding his fingers across the screen he brought up a new section of notes. Forgoing the name he typed up a hasty description, getting details in so he could identify the person later. He heard him try to speak up once more, a finger swiftly raised from Croix's hand as he went back into his tablet and began his quick notes. Looking up at the the man before going back down and jotting something else down and finally looking back to the young scientist.   "Continue...." He trailed off, gesturing for him to produce a name.   "Tyler."   "Yes, Tyler. Please, continue." He suddenly became wide eyed and looked like a deer in headlights, all of his courage having seemingly faded away with the forced pause. He struggled to find the words as Dr. Magnus simply stared at him, his eyes revealed nothing of what his mind was saying. Only that he was watching every move he made, his fingers tapping on the tablet without his eyes leaving the face before him at any time.   "I uh, was simply saying, we uh, perhaps just need sometime away from this place. That's what the party is really for, a chance for everyone to let off some steam and relax." Croix nodded subtly as he added more notes, his fingers dancing away as his eyes quickly darted to different faces before they found their way back to Tyler.   "I see, interesting. Very well, everyone is dismissed until tomorrow. Leave me to my work." Without another word, he turned his back on all of them, ignoring everyone around him as he transferred all of his notes and information to a large screen and began to work on that. He didn't even notice when everyone had filed out to attend to the things they wanted to attend to, and he failed to notice time go by as well. It was all irrelevant to him, all that mattered was getting the work done and he was failing to keep track of his own bodily needs. Time flying by and his eyes growing tired and his frustration building as his current avenue of work wasn't producing anything worth while he rubbed his eyes before reaching up and tossing his glasses off in the distance. His hand moving to his temple as he moved to his desk, tossing the tablet on the desk as it made an unusual clatter causing his attention to change to the box he had received early in the day, or was it yesterday, he wasn't sure and didn't really care as he picked up the box and opened it. His eyes scanned over the object within, his hand reaching in and lifting up the new pair of glasses, looking at the details and observing how they used crystal to create the detail in the frames. He would have said he saw them as just another random thing, something that was probably delivered incorrectly to him, but something about them caused him to feel a slight sense of awe. Unfolding the arms of the frames he looked over the detail of them, having set down the packaging and using both hands to handle the glasses that seemed to delicate in his grasp.   "These are, fascinating. I would like to know how these were made to precisely, it's as if the crystal was grown into the frames. Seamless and perfectly crafted, I must say I shall en devour to find its creator." He felt compelled to put them on, and he complied without thinking about it a she slid the frames on to his face and marveled at how they had gotten his prescription perfectly. After a few minutes of wearing them, he felt a slight pressure build up in his skull, but it passed quickly enough and he was alone with his work once more.   "Alright, I have to to just get over this formula and move on, I will find it!"   "Of course you will, it can't be that difficult of a task for a mind like this." Croix didn't bother to look around as he continued to work.   "Why of course it isn't, that's why I sent you all away as you are a distraction. Now, please leave me to my work."   "But of course I would if I could, but that is something not within my power and I do hope you don't detest me for intruding so." Croix turned around then, ready to address the person within in his lab, only to find it empty and void of all life but his own. His eyes search swiftly for anyone, the voice had been clear and powerful, feeling old, possibly ancient.   "Hello? Did you just walk away without saying anything?"   "I certainly did not, that would be rude and I am far from it." The voice rang clear in his mind, whirling around trying to find the source but he couldn't see anyone.   "Alright, this is very bloody funny but where are you?" He heard a laugh then, one that was very mannered and seemed practiced.   "Why I am in here with you my dear boy, it is quite roomy in here, but I feel I need to stretch my legs for a bit if you don't mind." Croix felt his heart thump then, hard and heavy as he started to stumble and fall to the floor. Grasping on to the table nearest to him as best he could, his felt his body start to hurt, his skin was starting to losing feeling and feel rough as his body started to grow.   "What is happening? This is... amazing! Please keep notes, computer..... automated....camera activate!" He said as quickly as he could before pain racked his body, his entire structure changing right down to the molecular level. His mind raced with the fascination of the whole thing, but the pain made it impossible to do anything more then struggle as he became covered in a hard material, a rocky surface taking over his skin and replacing his entire being with stone. His roars of pain echoed clearly as he slammed a massive hand into the table he had been holding and his body rising as he stood taller then ever before with new eyes looking out a the world around him.

Name: Dr. Croix Magnus Character: Scientist Age: 32 Appearance: Croix Personality: Croix is an odd human being, his entire life has been dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding the world and all the thing that make it tick. But, he is a very poorly developed individual as his mind is locked in a constant state of experimentation. He interacts with other humans on a bases of understanding why they do what they do or what the contribute to his current experiment. Beyond that, people are an utter mystery to him and he doesn't care to understand them any better. As a way for his mind to cope with his complete disconnection with the rest of the world, he regularly speaks with himself as if he were multiple people. He has been checked out more than once for split personality disorder, but has just been found to be profoundly sane but completely disinterested in the rest of humanity. This as also lead others to believe that he is also amoral and completely without emotional attachment, whether it is true or not Croix has no time for such matters as the science is always more important. Snippet: â??No, no, no, no, no, no, no! This is all wrong, how many times did I tell you to check your calculations?â? The rather powerful voice spoke in a stern tone, pushing the young woman out of the way by means of her office chair and instantly clicking away on the computer. Making adjustments as his eyes focused in on the screen, his glasses starting to fall ever so much as he pushed the frames up to the bridge of his nose. The girl became meek then, slightly turning her face away from the man as he wrung her fingers together. He was one of the few people in the world that made her feel this way, but he was a genius in this field and so dedicated to his work. Her mind was wandering to the party she, the night she was going to have and the man she was going to be with that night. â??Dr. Magnus, I assure you it is done correctly and my work has never been wrong before. I would prefer if you didnâ??t speak to me like a child.â? Croix was ignoring her now, as he always did, and as she always thought. He was actually simply failing to acknowledge her as he let his hands work, his mind let the numbers stream through with perfect clarity. â??I know the numbers were wrong, iâ??m trying to fix it right now.â? Croix still staring at the screen as he was talking, seeming to no one around him now. â??You bloody well better believe iâ??m doing it right, none of these other â??scientistsâ?? can ever get it done when I need it too. Fools, all of them.â? Kelly stood up then, her meekness vanishing with a sudden rush of indignation. This was normal for Dr. Magnus, speaking to himself as if another person was there responding to his every question or him responding to an unasked one. It was the way he worked, a way his brain dealt with his loneliness, if you could even called it that. â??I will tell you again Dr. Magnus, everything was just fine until you decided to butt in and try to fix something that didnâ??t need it to begin with. We are very competent and capable of doing the job just as well you-â? â??Iâ??m sorry, what were you saying? I just finished adjusting your equations, now the formula will be 34.6% more efficient. Get your head out of your arse and get back to work, this bloody party is ruining my lab.â? Croix rose from the desk as the girl named kelly faded from his vision once more, losing sight of her enraged and embarrassed face and going back to his own work almost instantly. His work was always more important, these people were hardly worth the time he had to spend fixing their work. They got it right enough times that he didnâ??t have to constantly hover over their shoulders, but right now he needed to keep an eye on them. â??Iâ??ll never get anything done if I have to keep looking at all of these idiots and itâ??s driving me-â? He spun around at the sound of someone clicking on their computer and instantly turned on them. â??I bloody told you to stop fooling around over there! Your damn party can wait, we have more important things to do!â? He rubbed his eyes under his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose as he tried to relieve the madness around him. He let out a sigh once more before going back to his desk, his fingers dancing on the keyboard once again as he looked across the three monitors on his desk. Formulas sitting on his screens, filling in each gap and sending the equations off to be completed and put into production. In Coixâ??s mind, it was going to be a long night of work, one he didnâ??t mind but one he was less thrilled about with the others, things missing from the lab. He suddenly became aware of a person standing at his side, his eyes coming away from his monitors to see a young man holding a box. He let out a aggravated sigh as he stood up and pushed his glasses back up his nose.   "What do you want, I am very busy right now." He suddenly turned his head away as if listening to someone else, holding up his hand to pause the young man.   "I bloody know alright? I'm trying to get work done but they won't leave me alone!" The young man set a box down on his desk with a clipboard in his other hand.   "Please sign here, sir." Croix snatched the clipboard from him, using the pen attached to the board to scribble on the board.   "It's Dr. Magnus, didn't get multiple doctorates and PhD's to be called sir." He tossed the clipboard back to the youth before ignoring him all at once again, the box sitting on his desk as he laid one hand on it and looked at his monitors again.

Muhahahahaha!!!!!

Everyone and their mom is on right now, those crazy mothers and their interwebs

â??Yes! It is finally time for some tea and maybe I shall finally get my 100 sugars I ordered from that blasted woman.â? Barracus said merrily to himself, the pouch that held his trophy clenched in his free hand. His other hand slowly spinning the cane through his fingers as he seemed to dance around in boredom, his feet idly tapping as he seemed to be bouncing around to some unheard music. The others were growing accustomed to his antics in their short time together, their eyes no longer falling on him when he let his mind wander and his lips speak whatever came to mind. But right now, his mind was far from gone as it normally was; his trophy he had taken from his Lich brother was having a more profound effect on him. He was thinking more clearly, but only for short times as he was discovering, he wasnâ??t able to hold on to the time if he tried but it did happen progressively. Sometimes, it would last for mere moments; other time he had felt it last for at least an hour. It was becoming intoxicating to him, being able to participate in the real world once more instead of as a raving lunatic he had been before. But, he would need to keep up behavior; he would let none of them know how clear he was now. â??I would so desire to see Charles once more, where is that lazy servant of mine? Charles! I demand a foot rub! We walked for days without any rest, through harsh deserts and blistering winds! It was dreadful.â? He flourished around, throwing his hands and arms out as he embellished the story and then plopped down into a arm chair with his feet thrown out in front of him. He looked around with as innocent and child like look as he possibly could, seeing how they were preparing for the full moon tonight. It was an event that would weigh heavily on this band of misfits, the fear of them being out in the open when the change happened, the fear the originator had of something she called the Fating. It was an event he had heard about, something spoken amongst the higher Lichs when he had moments of clarity. When they thought he couldnâ??t hear their words, hear their whispers of his demise, of how they had tried their best to strip him of his mind. His eyes looked to see who was doing what, what kind of preparations they were planning to make and what the new lay of the land was. He caught one person looking at him, the half demon named Kayin, if he was actually remembering him correctly. His eyes had fallen on the Lich Lord, something about them seem to be scrutinizing him for something more. The look only lasted a few moments and Barracus was sure his bright smile and his child like behavior was enough to subdue whatever suspicion was in that observation. â??Alright, I bid you all a good night and for those of you changing tonight that you remain in your rooms and stay safe. The rest should stay away from them; it will be a long night.â? Darian spoke clearly now, checking over everyone before making his departure, vanishing into another room. Barracus watched them all disperse for the time; Mikhail seemed the most aggravated with the whole situation. Baldr behaving as a soldier, quiet and weighing the options in his mind before entering into his designated cage. They prettied them up, gave those comfortable beds and chairs and put down rugs of very exquisite fabric and design, but the walls were reinforced, the doors having been replaced with titanium bars. It was for everyoneâ??s protection, or so they had all be told, it was just another justification for being in another prison. Barracus was pleased he wouldnâ??t be trapped in those confines, though it couldnâ??t hold his particular power but it was enough for the feral behavior of the were-creatuers. He rose from the arm chair, following behind Mikhail as he was closed up into his room. The barred door slamming shut as Barracus took his seat beside the door, stretching out and getting comfortable even though he was to retire to his own room. He found no reason to go there; sleep was simply a way to waste time while other creatures gained their energy back. He would remain awake for the time, while he could still appreciate his mind being whole. Or as whole as it could be with the time he had, he looked over his shoulder as he saw Mikhail pacing back and forth as he could feel the change begin to take hold. It was more gradual then Barracus had been ready for, it was going to grow boring very quickly, and he wasnâ??t going to waste any time. â??Mikhail, if I actually remember your name correctly. It has been an interesting journey with you so far, your strength as a were-wolf is quite remarkable. Your blood is pure which must mean your clan is very strong, Europe seems to have a way of breeding some of the best.â? Mikhail had a stunned look on his face, having been prepared for his antics, the ranting and raving of foolish statements. What he was seeing now, was very different, he was seeing a part of the Lich Lord he could only understand when he stripped away his flesh and became the desiccated corpse. â??Why do you sound so different Barracus?â? The Lich stood from his seat, removing his hat he set his cane on the ground balancing it perfectly as he placed his hat over the orb before he started to pace in front of the cage with one hand behind his back as he gestured with the other. â??Ah yes, you speak of when my mind is scattered to the wind, when the world is nothing more than a play thing to me. I have my mind, for now at least, and I have decided to reveal that information to you as you and Baldr have shown to be the most trust worthy.â? Mikhail had a grim look on his face, his body was shaking lightly but hearing the Lich speak in this fashion was enough to divert his attention and his focus to the task at hand. â??I do not fully understand, why tell me anything, Baldr seems to know you better then I. And what is to keep me from telling the others of your mental clarity?â? Barracus let a smile creep on his face, continuing his pacing back and forth. â??I sense in you something more, a desire for something greater than this. This entrapment they give you to control your power to change, I cannot offer you the answer to how, but I can offer my assistance and my vast knowledge and experience if you do two things for me.â? The Lich looked stopped his pacing to look into the eyes of the werewolf, seeing how they were beginning to shift to accommodate the beast within. â??Iâ??m listening.â? Barracus showed his white smile more clearly, a victory in his mind as he started to pace once more and gesture again. â??First, you must keep this to yourself for now. The others would not understand, and I am sure it would create more problems with Rasputin trying to free himself. Second, the Lich we saw at the castle of the angel, the 2nd. He will find me, hopefully he will come alone and when he does I ask that you help me in killing him.â? â??You did well enough when we last saw him, you nearly won, why do you need my help next time?â? â??Simply because he will use all of his power next time, he had underestimated me in our last encounter but we will not have that luxury again. I do not know how my mind will be when I see him next, but I say this now, I must be the one to perform the final blow. Do we have an agreement?â? Mikhail was standing tall, his muscle taut as he stared hard at the true Lich Lord beneath the exterior that everyone knew as Barracus. â??I agree, but I do not like this.â?   â??It does not matter if you like the deal or not, simply follow the agreement and everything will be fine. Charles will make sure that things go as I need them, wonâ??t you Charles?â? The figure appeared, his old clothes mended and his body hidden once more. â??Charles is actually a person? I thought he was just an insane mans creation.â? â??He is now, but before, he was the Lich who I killed for this place. Him and all the others I conquered to get where I am today are under my rule, so sad I couldnâ??t add the angel to my army. Another time perhaps.â? Barracus smiled for just a moment longer at Mikhail before his smile dropped and his hands went ot his head.   â??For the love of tea and beagles, how odd is this floor-NO!â? Barracus knelled on the ground for several moments, his hands still gripping his head. â??My mind fades, do not forget our deal Mikhail, or you will follow in Charles footsteps!â? His eyes bulged for a moment as a laugh erupted from his throat, something mixed with both darkness and innocence lost. The laughter stopped then, and a wide eyed smiling Barracus looked up once more, looking around as if being there for the first time. â??My, my, this is a splendid place indeed. I should have one just like it, Charles! I require you begin construction on my wonderfunland immediately, make everything out of cotton candy and bubbles. Itâ??ll keep costs down and easy to replace.â? Barracusâ?? eyes caught on to Mikhail in the cage, his body slowly folding in on himself as the change was becoming more powerful, and the effect more obvious. â??My boy! You are sure looking lousy in there, let me assist you. Charles, let the door open, he obviously needs more air, and the poor creature is suffocating!â? Charles moved forward, skeletal hands firmly placed on the door as he gave it one solid tug with a loud metal snap. The door now hung loosely, as Barracus reclaimed his hat and cane, bouncing like a child once more as he clapped his hands with anticipation for a game he wasnâ??t sure of yet.

â??Clarity has returned Charles, I can feel it coursing through my bones! We have a meeting with destiny.â? Barracus was one of the only ones to charge in with the angels, his mind unimaginably focused as he swung his cane with powerful and precise strikes. The Lich was peeling away both vampires that lashed out at him and the were-creatures lunging for him, behind him stood his manservant as he used his fist and a horse whip to fight off the hordes. Creatures searched for perches on Charles, trying to bring him down as he was a stalwart figure in the mass. His monotone clothes should have kept him hidden in the crowd, but his ability to clear space made it obvious where he was. Barracus used one hand to swing his cane, fierceness in each hit that turned vampires to dust, crushed the skulls of the turned and shattered the air around him. His other hand lashed out with lightning, fire, cold darkness, and burning light with each sweeping motion. It wouldnâ??t be enough to stop the horde, they would move one when the target wasnâ??t easy but his show wasnâ??t to stop or even slow them down it was to simply clear his path.   â??Come out and face me! I saw you helping them, I knew we Lich were cold and backstabbing to one another. But to help him? To help Rasputin, this is an internal dispute child!â? Barracus tried to roar over the noise, his words angry and filled with a burning need to find one of his own kind. The need to create war, to bring doom upon this creature that no one else could create and was up to only a Lich to truly destroy. The hellspawn reached him in his one moment, Charles smashing in the brain of a turned creature unable to watch his masters back as it had latched on to Barracus arm. Its razor sharp teeth biting deep into the bone and its head twisting in a violent motion, the action tearing the suit and the flesh. The bones cracked and broken as it tore away the arm, its claws trying to grasp on to his body. Barracus smashed his cane into the creature, the orb flaring to life as he sent energy radiating into it that crashed into the hellspawns body. Twisting and flailing as the energy burned and coursed through its body, Barracus face clearly twisted with hatred and malice.   â??You take my arm, I take your soul!â? The power kept burning, but something seemed to be happening as the skin began to shrivel and crack. Itâ??s screams falling dead as it still flailed and itâ??s life left it, being pulled into Barracusâ?? cane. The hellspawn crumbled into dust as Barracus kept looking for the other Lich, his eyes searching through the chaos.   â??I grow weary of this game, which of you is it? Cantheus, Motarin. None of you are strong enough to face me!â?   â??Î?Ï?ορεί να Ï?αÏ? Ï?έρει κάÏ?Ï? Adelphos Ï?αιδί?â? (Can you bring down Adelphos child?) The scratchy withered voice came from Barracus left, a smile of pure madness and dark glee showed on Barracus face as he turned to see the corpse before him.   â??The 2nd, why this is quite the honor to see you here It makes sense that you could corrupt this holy ground. Tell me, did Rasputin offer you the 1stâ??s place if you helped him?â?   â??Τι Ï?ημαÏ?ία έÏ?ει αÏ?Ï?Ï? Ï?οÏ? μοÏ? Ï?ρÏ?Ï?Ï?ερε, θα εξακολοÏ?θούν να εÏ?δοκιμούν και μεÏ?ά οι θνηÏ?οί είναι νεκροί.â? (What does it matter what he has offered me, we will still thrive after these mortals are dead.) Adelphos spoke through his withered lips, his own body partly here and partly in the spirit world. His eyes gave him away, one was a solid orange color, unnatural and glowing, the other eye was gone all together. A sign of his rank amongst the Lords, eyes were for the weak, as the 1st said to them all.   â??The 1st will have your head for this, unless of course, I take it from you.â? Barracus lashed out then, his cane sending forth a surge of pure white light. The power smashing into Adelphos that sent him spinning away and crashing into the ground. The creature of bone and rotten flesh slowly rose from where it had fallen, creaking and cracking with the effort. Charles remained near, clearing the area as best he could, taking hits as the claws ripped his clothes into rags. Revealing the skeletal being beneath with each turn and mighty swing as Barracus now stormed toward the other Lich. His power burning away his façade, his skin cracking and breaking away as his clothes withered and reformed into his robe. His cane growing and twisting to take the staff shape once more, his lost arm still hanging at his side but anything but a burden on him.   â??Morieris hodie!â? (You will die today!â?) Barracusâ?? hollow speech raged forth, a necrotic blast raced from his staff. Adelphos dodge the blast, his body more nimble then appeared and raced forward, words being spoken as it launched a wave of inky blackness at Barracus. His only defense was to bring his staff forward, the runes of a magic long since lost to mortals. The wave crashed into his staff, creating a negative space in which he existed, the rest of the wave moving outward as it engulfed vampires, hellspawn and angels alike. He was able to pull his staff away to see Adelphos had cleared the distance between them, moving quickly as he lunged out with a withered hand lancing out covered in the same darkness. Barracus batting it away with his staff before coming from under with the lower part of his staff, trying to trip up Adelphos but he was finding it more difficult without the use of another hand. Adelphos managed to keep his balance, turning to out maneuvered Barracus only to find he could keep up. His staff crashing down with a green hue, the necrotic power crackling in the air as the very molecules popped and died from the energy. Adelphos throwing up a shield of darkness to deflect the blow before lunging forward again, this time Barracus was ready. His mouth opened wide as he let out a roar, the necrotic power rushing forward in a flood as it smashed directly into the face of the 2nd.   He managed to only turn his head away enough to take the blast directly to the side of his face, the necrosis quickly setting in as it started to ravage Adelphos face. The pain didnâ??t bother him so much as the power that continued to burn through, trying to worm its way deep in his body but finding resistance from the 2nd. He was, however, too distracted to see the staff come around once more, smashing into his left forearm and snapping both bones as the weak flesh ripped jaggedly from Adelphos body. Barracus lashed out with his foot, hitting directly into the 2ndâ??s knee and separating it completely sending Adelphos to the ground on to his other knee.   â??Tute potentia mea est Adelphos, ego erit secundus!â? (You're power is mine Adelphos, I will be the second!) Leveling his staff at the fallen Lich, he saw a smile spread on his face. The look that he knew something more then he showed, a darkness that was hidden from Barracusâ?? sight. He felt it hit him with such force, he was sure his body was going to come apart as he flew through the air and collided into the dirt rolling and flailing as he held on to his staff. Barracus laid on the ground for several moments before slowly rising, seeing what had smashed into him to find a young vampire helping Adelphos rise once more.   â??Î?εν Ï?ίÏ?Ï?εÏ?α Ï?Ï?ι θα ήÏ?αν Ï?Ï?Ï?ο εύκολο να μειÏ?θεί η δεύÏ?ερη έκανεÏ? Barracusâ?( You did not think it would be so easy to bring down the second did you Barracus) The young vampire reached down, snatching up the removed limb and holding it out to the 2nd. He started to reach for it when both figures were suddenly sent flying through the air as Charles now stood where the two had been before. His clothes in tatters and some of his bones cracked and splintered but still stood tall, reaching down for the severed limb and returning to his master. Holding out the limb, Barracus took the limb, pressing it to where his had been lost and letting his power surge through him as his bones connect with the new arm. The fingers flexing and extending to give it a try, Charles helping his master rise before both of them retreated for the time.   â??Et iterum potestatem animae tuae Adelphos.â?( Next time I will have your soul and your power Adelphos) Barracus said quietly to himself, pushing their way back to the castle and to whatever escape route awaited them. The farther they moved from the 2nd, the further Barracus felt his mind slipping and his purpose fading once more. His body returning to a youthful appearance as his child like smile showed, swinging his cane in the air to keep the creatures away from them.   â??Ah another beautiful day of cricket and bad mitten wouldnâ??t you say Charles? Come, come, we have much to do and so little life left!â? Barracus happily skipping along, swinging his cane without a care in the world.

Barracus sat patiently in his room, his eyes wandering as he observed the decorum of the room they had settled him in. The rather luxuries armchair he was sitting in now felt bouncy and well maintained even though the wood and craftsmanship was well aged. Barracus bounced lightly, child like, as he continued to let his eyes travel over every surface.   â??I remember when wood was only found on trees, and when we use to use our hands to beat the wood out of those stubborn wenches. Isnâ??t that right Charles?â? A figure stood nearby, not one of the angels that was positioned outside of this room or the ones that were standing in the hallway further down in apprehension of the Lich Lord in their midst. The figure had an old bolder hat with a scarf wrapped around his face; his wool jacket was slightly worn along with the gloves, pants and boots. His hands were held at his sides as he simply stood silent and solitary against the dark corner of the room, his body completely still as he just watched his master.   â??Oh Charles, the witty commentary you come up with. Perhaps we should introduce you to our esteemed hosts yes?â? Barracus let out a mischievous cackle as he sprung up from his seat and tip toed to the doorway, a huge grin on his face as he held on to the shaft of his cane and slowly pressed his face to the door. Using his other hand to hold up his top hat as he pressed his ear against the door, half listening and half concocting a plan in his mind of both lucrative and possibly suicidal.   â??Charles, thatâ??s brilliant! I canâ??t believe I didnâ??t think of that! Be ready Charles.â? He knocked gently on the door once, a slight shuffle from outside confirmed someone had heard his light gesture. He knocked harder this time, getting a better response as he started to hear mumbling and heavier shuffling now.   â??Ah yes, and it begins!â? Barracus suddenly stepped back and lashed out with a kick, striking the door solidly and laugh erupting from his throat as a solid thump was heard. But nothing had happened, the door still remained and Barracus crossed his arms now, his face in a part scowl part pouting face.   â??Well that didnâ??t work at al Charles, why didnâ??t you tell me it wasnâ??t like the movies where it simply comes apart? Now I look the fool for your lack of real world knowledge.â? The figure remained still as it watched its master with indifferent eyes. Barracus suddenly perked up as if he was realizing something for the first time, and he jumped with glee as a child did.   â??Oh! I didnâ??t know I was supposed to use all of my strength when I kick it out? Well that didnâ??t make sense to me at the time! Donâ??t chide me with your fancy words and your condescending tone Talonsworth, Iâ??ll put you back into the ground if I have too!â? Charles stepped forward then, moving after having been there for hours with not so much as a single flinch from him. His hands went before him as he clasped them together, bowing his head ever so slightly as Barracus seemed to have and apologetic face.   â??I fear I have stepped over the line this time Charles and I think that the birds should know how to aim better. Maybe we could-â??He was cut off as the door suddenly swung open, two beings walked in with an air about them as they were ready for something. Barracus slid toward them, his can held in both hands before he started to gesture wildly with his hands.   â??I am so glad you are here, that saved me from kicking that very well made door again. Now, my associate and I-â??   â??Who is that?â? A male of the two angels spoke as they quickly glanced to him before back to the Lich Lord. Barracus gritted his teeth for just a moment, an annoyed look passing over his face for just a second before retuning to his smile.   â??As I was saying, my associate and I were getting ready to throw a rip roaring party. Now what I need from you two is-â??   â??You need to stay here and keep to yourself Lich.â? The other guard, a female spoke up clearly this time. Her words would have been taken with warning for a sane mind, but the trouble would arise for them as they didnâ??t know the mind they dealt with was gone.   â??Well, you certainly are rude. Not very lady like at all, Iâ??m sure if we got you into a nice dress and did something with your hair.â? He touched her hair then, very finely before pulling away and trying to clean his fingers off of some invisible grim.   â??And you, if we could get you into a nice tuxedo we could easily-â?? Barracus clapped his hands together then, a blinding lightly suddenly bathing the entire room with his hand positioned as close to their faces as possible. They both roared in surprise as they were blinded and tried to rub at their eyes savagely.   â??I donâ??t like being interrupted! Come Charles, itâ??s time to flee. Quickly!â? Barracus tucked his cane under his arm and held on to his top hat as he quickly hustled out of the room; Charles was hot on his heels as they took off. First running one way and when they were met with sudden resistance he turned and booked it down another way.   â??Oh bloody hell, there is just not sportsmanship when there are more of them then me!â? He ran down another hall, making a random turn before running down further. He could hear footsteps behind him, Charles still close as commotion was going on behind him. A laugh breaking forth once more as he skidded across the carpet and turned down another corner.   â??This is was a magnificent idea! Iâ??m having so much fun, you have wonderful ideas Talonsworth. Turn here!â? Barracus collided into a door before reaching out and grabbing the knob and flinging it open before both of them entered. Charles making his first action by closing the door behind them as Barracus found himself in company of two were-creatures. Both he knew, one better then the other, at least he thought he did. Face always escaped him and it was always a problem remembering them all.   â??Gentlemen! Iâ??m so glad to see you both, Iâ??m in the middle of a thrilling game of hide and seek and I wonder if you both would like to participate.â? He paused for only a few seconds, his hands clapped together, cane tucked under his arm and a smile on his face.   â??Excellent! Glad you are aboard, I need you to start running if you donâ??t mind. We canâ??t all be hiding in the same place or else it ruins the game.â? Barracus turned away, back to the door before disappearing out once more.   â??He is a strange character, do you think we should follow?â? Mikhail spoke up as Baldr seemed to tense up a little.   â??He is very off, but I still wouldnâ??t want to be on the bad side of a 4th ranked Lich.â? Mikhail raised an eyebrow at him then, the drinks still held in their hands.   â??What does a rank have to do with the Lich?â? Baldr took another swig of his drink, his eyes still on the door as he spoke up.   â??Not many people know this, but there are thousands of Lichâ??s in the world. They stay very well hidden, only the top 10 claim Lord status and are the most visible to everyone. Heâ??s the 4th most powerful Lich in the world, well; he would be if his mind wasnâ??t warped from the change.â? Barracus charged through the hall, his cane held out as if he was holding a saber in the civil war once more.   â??Charge!â? He screamed down the hall as Charles followed behind him, coming to another pair of angles as they suddenly readied themselves moments before Barracus plunged his cane down. Using it like pole vault he was over them in moments and his run was uninterrupted, his man servant simply vanished as it reached the pair before dust coming together to form Charles once more. The Lich Lord smiling broadly as he continued to run, seeing another figure in the hallway, an angle standing in front of a doorway before looking over right in time to see the glass orb of the cane smash right into his head. Sending the angel down Barracus quickly entered the room, finding Dark in his bed.   â??Run my boy, theyâ??ll catch you if you donâ??t play the game right!â? He screamed as he ran into the room, his arms flailing about with a devious smile and then quickly left the room, Charles closing the door behind him before they took off once more. The angel was coming around as the duo vanished around the corner once more, Barracus finding it easy to get lost in the sanctuary they resided in. He laughed with glee as he looked back to see who was following him, his body suddenly coming to a complete stop before falling to the floor flat on his back. He laid spread eagle on the floor as he looked at the ceiling, blinking away the confusion.   â??Well that was rude, who put a wall in my way?â? He sat up to see the man who had let them all into his house, looking down at the Lich on the floor who simply showed a toothy smile at him as he took off his top hat.   â??Well good evening good host! I was playing a rousing game of hide and seek, you seem to have found me! Congratulations, Charles, give the man his prize.â? Charles was nowhere to be seen, having disintegrated in the presence of the angel and Barracus fall. Gabe looked down at the Lich with scrutinizing eyes, studying what was going on in the mind of this creature. That was, until he looked him in the eyes, the coloration and order of which they were colored made him inhale sharply. He reached down and grabbed the Lich by the arm, walking off as he dragged Barracus with him as he flailed weakly.   â??I say, unhand me! This isnâ??t proper etiquette, I demand to see person in charge!â? Gabe continued to drag Barracus behind him.   â??He isnâ??t here anymore, stopped calling when I fell.â? Barracus let out a laugh then, the tone sounding dark and filled with malice.   â??Where is your god now boy?â? He said with a cold smile on his face as Gabe looked at the creature in his hand, seeing the darkness within before the child like behavior returned, the playful innocence returning. He walked faster, reaching the room he wanted before swinging the door open and tossing Barracus in before slamming it shut, Akieen shot up from her bed in a fighting position. Upon seeing Gabe and the Lich, she relaxed just a little bit, seeing the tension in Gabe now.   â??First you bring a half demon into my house and you bring a Lich. I was fine with that but you didnâ??t say anything about him being the 4th!â? Akieen stood talk as Barracus had finally risen just to collapse into a comfortable arm chair once more, a smile on his face as he looked at the decorm of the new room.   â??What the hell are you talking about Gabe? Heâ??s just a Lich Lord, an unstable one at that, but his files arenâ??t complete, he was useful in fighting off the turned.â?   â??Do you understand what it means him being the 4th? There are only three other Lich Lords who are ahead of him, and there are six Lichâ??s who can even attempt to take his place. If you want this journey to go well, you either leave him behind or you keep your eye on him.â?   â??This sounds insane Gabe, he pays more attention to his top hat then he does to the world. Can he really be that dangerous? Look at him! Heâ??s more like a child, I understand he was powerful but heâ??s hardly capable to plot or do anything on his own.â? Gabe spoke through gritted teeth, his words quieter but just as hard.   â??You wait until he changes, when he becomes that corpse heâ??ll show you his true colors. I do not want to see him roaming my halls alone, one of you needs to stay with him. I do not care who, but someone needs to stand by.â? Akieen was ready to argue but saw Gabe was in no mood to speak further, she simply nodded curtly and Gabe walked out and shut the door behind him. Akieen looking over to the Lich Lord sitting with a relaxed look on his face.   â??What game are we playing now?â? He said with a sweet smile on his face, the conversation had about him completely going over his own head as he tapped his hands and feet in anticipation.

"Onward my furry steed! Smash those coconuts I want to see where all that milk comes from!" Barracus yelled over the roar of the massive beats he now road, the man known as Mikhail, a person he had already perceived as a worthy ally was rampaging through the hordes that seemed to try mauling both the Lich Lord and the werewolf. Barracus laughed with glee as he swung his cane once more, smashing another in the face while he held on to Mikhail with his other hand, his top hat was stilled settled atop the Lich's head. It was a miraculous feat that he kept the hat firmly settled with only having to grab it whenever Mikhail would rear from either his need to roar out his aggression or when something would strike him from behind. Usually, Barracus took care of his rear, but he was easily distracted in this situation as so many bodies seemed to flood around them, like an ocean of pain and screams. â??This is some thirsty work, Charles! Where are you? I need my refreshment! Charles?â? Barracus seemed to be genuinely searching for his manservant, unable to find him seemed to frazzle the Lich more so then anything else around him. He felt a rage instill within him, the audacity of Charles to be nowhere in sight when he needed him most.   â??Dammit it all Charles!â? The Lich lashed out with ferocity now, his cane channeling his power with ease as it spewed forth a bolt of lightning that he sent sailing out, chaining between the hellspawn and killing several as the first few literally exploded from sudden pressure build up while the others that followed turned black and crunchy. Barracusâ?? furry seemed to grow as he lashed out with fire, a wave of golden flame splashing down on several hellspawn, leaving them screaming in agony as it burned to the bone. But, his waves only seemed to destroy the weaker beings as the stronger flooded forward. Barracus hardly noticed as he seemed to be searching for Charles. It suddenly seemed a switch flipped in his mind as a smile appeared upon his face and he bellowed a laugh from atop Mikhail.   â??Oh Charles! Are we playing a game again? You know how much I love games! My boy, we are looking for Charles Talonworth, I do so enjoy these times.â? Barracus used his feet to try and move Mikhail forward, but his insistent jabs of his ankles to the werewolfâ??s chest was hardly anything about that the creature could feel. Mikhail was in his own world, fighting with rage and ferocity achieved by the werewolfâ??s alone. If Barracus had been able to appreciate the marvel of power beneath him, it would have astonished him. But, his mind being so warped with time and the transformation of being a Lich Lord had done its damage. Barracus didnâ??t notice that Mikahil was losing steam, that his new ally was starting to stumble and that his new wound was poisoning his system. The rage and constant movement of the fight had accelerated the actions of the poison; Mikhail was losing strength every second. And the fact the Lich was drawing power from his rage was also putting a drain on his body, the more he fought, the more Barracus took. The werewolf stumbled now, lashing out with his claws that ripped the faces off more hellspawn. He stumbled forward, falling to a knee and using a massive hand to keep from falling to the ground. Mikhails chest heaving heavily as his body was raked with pain from the poison and the wounds he had sustained while keeping the Lich aloft. Barrcus roared with glee as he jumped off Mikahils back and slammed his cane in the ground, the earth ripping up in a solid wave. Sending hellspawn scattering everywhere, giving them time. â??Yes, I had planned them from the very beginning. Boom goes the dynamite! Wait no, that wasnâ??t planned, why would you tell me that? That was moronic of you to suggest such a thing as a plan, lets perhaps look at it as coincidental demolition of unfamiliar property. No, that sounds stupid as well. What am I doing again?â? Barracus turned to look to the companion he had been with moments ago, to see a human resting where the beats had been moments ago. â??Ah my boy! You have returned I am so glad to see you alive and well. Be careful, there is a big white wolf running around smashing coconuts. He did a bang up job but I believe the coconuts are revolting again.â? Mikhail was still breathing hard when he looked up to the Lich, an almost maniacal smile showed on Barracus face. Mikahils head drooped once more as his body shook from the effort, using both hands to support himself for now. â??We need to go Lich, help me up.â? Barrcaus had a questioning look on his face then, looking unsure of the proportion made before him. â??Go? Go where? We have more coconuts to smash and more milk to drink; I want my damn umbrella in my coconut drink! Where is my umbrella?â? The precious moments Barracus had obtained with his power was lost to his madness as they started to swarm in again. A hellspawn of larger proportion smashing into Barrcus from behind, sending theLich sailing through the air as it raced toward Mikhail. Barracus landed in a heal as more smaller hellspawn swarmed him, trying to tear him apart, biting, clawing, scratching, ripping and mauling the aristocrat. Barracus fought feebily, giggling as the creature did what they could to try and destroy their target. â??I say, stop that, it tickles! I really donâ??t enjoy being tickled, stop it. Stop it! STOP IT!â?</strong> Barracus let out a burst of energy, light condensed into a denser form to burn and dismember the creatures around him. He rose from the ground, his body torn, his abdomen pulled apart by claws, his left forearm hanging by the tendons. His right leg mangled with bone pushing its way out of his thigh and his right eye had popped out and burst from the brutal attack. None of it seemed to affect him as he clenched his cane with his right hand and gritted his teeth with an expression of pure rage and hatred. He looked down to see his top had been tramped with a set of claws having torn through it.  â??You uncivilized, disrespectful, expendable cur have ruined my suit and my hat! This was favorite bloody hat! MY hat!â? Barracus tossed the hat down as he lashed out with raw power, his body started to mend with the release of energy. Dark voids of nothingness appearing as it pulled in all those around, the spawn getting yanked into a void and crushed by the power of the black hole before exploding outward, sending the creatures everywhere as he walked through their charging ranks. The bone rebuilt in his arm, connecting the two pieces as the muscles and ligaments reattached themselves. His femur sliding its way back into his thigh and reconnecting with a sickening crack while his abdomen re-grew all the lost material and closed up his skin. That quickly changed as he suddenly seemed to start to wither, his skin losing color rapidly as his eyes became more sunken and his hair started to fall away in patches. His power continued to rage forward, both from his cane and his hand.   His cane started to gnarl and grow, becoming a staff with a solid black, jagged stone resting atop the blacken staff. The Lich showed his true form now, his body having withered and decayed as his muscle tone and mass seemed to vanish even though he stomped forward. His source of power having vanished with the werewolf losing to his poisoning, Barracus was drawing form his own energy now. A plentiful supply, but his own rage was making his energy drain his youthful exterior. His speech decayed with his form, losing the ability to speak the common language he had been before, he was speaking in a tongue that others would not have heard before in this day and age. No longer able to manipulate the elements as effectively, he moved toward the hulking beast trying to overcome Mikhail. Even in human form, the werewolf held his ground, keeping the creature at bay but was losing ground in his weakened state. Barrcaus levled his staff and released an inky black energy that emanated a green aura. The energy mass struck the hellbeast dead on, the necrotic energy taking effect immediately as it ate away the creatureâ??s chest. A high pitched wail rose as the creature disengaged and tried to scrap the dying wound away. This only caused it to spread as the death moved to its hands, eating away at everything it could. Barracus had closed the distance in that time, his withered hand reaching out and snatching the beasts face. His touch eroded the beats face in moments as it flailed on the ground without a further sound. â??Surge Mikhail, habemus multum ad facere obmutesce!â?( Rise Mikhail, we have much to do still!)The werewolf simply looked at him, unsure of what to do as he did not understand what was said Barracus held out his hand. Mikahil reached up cautiously, having seen the damage incurred upon the hellbeast. Clapping hands together, the withered form lifted him with ease, in his true form, Barracusâ?? mind retuned to him. His thoughts clear and the madness at bay for now, though it could rise anytime he was in more control. â??Bonum certamen belli est parvulus adhuc viveret.â?(It is good you still live young one there is a war to fight.) Mikhail held on to his side as he did his best to understand, simply nodding in what he thought was said. Barracus turned away and turned toward the carnage around them, the bodies had grown higher but there were still more coming. They had slowed near the Lich, as even beasts understood when death was near. His staff was firmly planted into the ground as the husk of Barracus faced the hordes, looking toward the house as well, he knew what he needed to do. But he would have to move quickly, being in this form alerted other Lichâ??s to his presence and they had more than enough problems on their hands as it was. â??Amicos meos animas non tenebis. Augete a tumulos vestros filios meos et pugnare pro tua deus!â?(You will not take the souls of my allies. Raise from your graves my children and fight for your god!) He raised his staff, then slammed the butt into the ground, sending a wave of black energy in the soil. The effect was almost immediate as the earth shook and the ground split apart, hands made of bone and weapons of a time long past rose from the dirt as warrior long dead heeded the call of their master. The bodies of the torn apart hellspawn rose as well, mangled or not they answered the call as well and came to the Lichs aid as they flooded forward in their own horde. Racing into the mass that approached their place, while the rest marched onto the manor they had been residing, Barracus started his walk back to the house. His minions would last as long as he remained the Lich. Once he changed, they would fall to dust, back to their domain until he called once more. Barracus stopped once he reached Mikhail and hoisted on arm on his shoulders, the boney processâ?? pushing on the werewolfs arm as they limped back up into main part of the house.

[size=3]The carriage rocked gently as the horses slowly trotted ahead, bothered by nothing around them as they continued to move forward. The man holding the reigns seemed as heedless as the horses were, simply holding on to the reigns with a slack hand in a hunched form as they all moved forward. The only lively noise and feel that came from the solemn carriage was the boisterous laughter and conversation that seemed to be coming from within the confines of the wooden box. Barraucs was not afraid to speak aloud, his words rich with character and life as he laughed and proceeded on with his conversation as he threw out a gloved hand out the curtained window. [/size] [size=3][b]"Ah Charles you are truly a wonder! You never cease to amaze me with your witty banter, you have made the decades more entertaining then I could imagine."[/b] Silence followed as a grin spread on his face, slowly spreading further as his lips parted revealing his white smile, another laugh erupted from him once again as he stamped his Italian made shoes on the floor boards in a child like manner. Pounding the end on his cane on the floor as well that highly exaggerated the whole experience.[/size] [size=3][b]"Charles you are a riot! We must do this again sometime,stop the carriage!"[/b] He exclaimed as they arrived at the apartment building, his top hat pushed its way out of the window moments before his face looked out to the building before him. His strange colored eyes seemed to flare with a child like glee as he his free hand held on to the windows edge, as his smile grew he pounded his open hand on the edge as he seemed to bounce within the carriage.[/size] [size=3][b]"Yes, yes this is it!Charles pull over quickly!"[/b] The carriage had been stationary for several moments now, his first command having been enough for the hunched form to halt the horses. Barracus smile vanished as his gaze seemed to turn deadly and he shifted it suddenly toward the coach driver with a violent turn on his head. [/size] [size=3][b]"Don't mock me Charles! This is the right place, it says it's so right here on this invitation I received."[/b] He reached into his coat pocket, pulling out a black envelope with a wax seal on it. The 'invitation' was black as well with gold embossed wording, the agency had played to his likes as he was a more volatile creature and any advantage they could gain with him was for the better. He pushed open the door and carefully placed one foot on the metal step before using his cane to leverage his body out and on to the sidewalk. He looked around at the building and everything within sight, his cane held out to his side as he adjusted his top hat with his other hand.[/size] [size=3][b]"Yes, this is perfect. But where are the parades and confetti for my arrival? Humph, i must have arrived later then they booked them. Damn it all, I shall have to speak to someone about this immediately."[/b] Stamping the butt of his cane before he started his stroll forward, the driver having remained completely still the whole time. The horses did the same, not a single motion from them all had come at any of his outbursts or his ranting the entire trip, Barracus waved a hand at the coach, the signal sending the horses forward down the street still pulling the carriage. With another quick gesture, the carriage began to disintegrate, the horses were being stripped of their flesh and muscles as they continued onward. Everything was falling apart and being pulled away in the wind until finally it reached the driver, his clothes disintegrating first to reveal the skeleton beneath it that followed suit and vanished with the rest of the conveyance. Barracus kept walking forward, whistling a jaunty tune as he strolled forward as he spun his cane, a slight skip in his step as he opened the door and walked up the stairs.[/size] [size=3][b]"Here he comes again, the one with all the answers."[/b] Brracus sang softly to himself as he ascended the steps, his cane tapping on every other step. His leather soled shoes sliding and clapping on the wooden steps as he turned walked on the landing and walked toward an apartment door.[/size] [size=3][b]"Here comes the dead, delivering like all the cancers."[/b] He reached the apartment number he had remembered on the invitation, his hand coming up and wrapping on the door. The knock solid and firm, clear for anyone to hear. He would not open the door on his own, it was a personal pet peeve of his when others had entered his domain without anyone telling them otherwise. It was one of the few things that remained from a mortal life, a time long gone for him, and they paid dearly for their trespassing. He wrapped on the door once more.[/size] [size=3][b]"Here comes the king of Tezeron, all hail the god amongst men."[/b] The door swung open and Barracus looked down to the human before him, a smile spread upon his face again and he snatched his hat form his head and gave a curtious bow.[/size] [size=3][b]"Ah, another soul! A pleasure to meet you, I am Barracus Sevarus Alerian Novara the IV. I have come upon invitation, may I enter?"[/b] The human seemed confused before nodding, his mouth opening to speak but Barracus already in the door and passed him, handing him his hat and coming to see a rather empty living room.[/size] [size=3][b]"Well this is odd, no admiring fans, no trumpets? This is not at all what i expected, or was it. No, I think i was expecting nothing to be here."[/b] He crossed one arm across his middle and placed his other hand over his chin and mouth in a pondering way. His eyes caught sight of a few other creatures now, their smells and their auras distinct as he lets his arms fall from their position and clapped them together now.[/size] [size=3][b]"Ha! There are others, how exciting! I must see who else is here."[/b] He quickly moved forward as he found the two men sitting quietly enjoying their mugs of something, the smell was distinctly coffee. He wrinkled his nose at the smell, never having liked the pungent odor that had always pushed him away from the liquid.[/size] [size=3][b]"Hello gentlemen, it is a pleasure to meet you both! I am Barracus Sevarus Alerian Novara the IV, you must all be part of this grand party we are all going to be apart of with the parts that in which we shall be doing. But before when i said it was a pleasure, it is simply a term for the nicety of seeing others rather then anything sexual. Wait...."[/b] He put his hand up with a single finger raised at the two men has his gaze wandered for a few moments.[/size] [size=3][b]"Perhaps i did mean that in a sexual way, aren't we all just a little into the same sex. Wait, that's not right, where am I again? Ah yes, this place, don't tell me whats going on, I don't like being told whats happening. What is that smell? OH! I sense someone else now! Off we go."[/b] Barracus instantly disappeared as he rushed off into the kitchen to see who else was left. He entered the room in a crouched position, despite the slight protestation of his tailored pants, he looked around quickly from left to right and spotted the being he had sensed.[/size] [size=3][b]"Oh my goodness, it is you. The originator, how fantastic it is to meet you at last. But of course, we have already met I mean you can't go anywhere without hearing my name. That is the name of Barracus Sevarus Alerian Novara the IV, I cannot believe its been so long since i last saw you. I mean with that figure it is hard to believe someone wouldn't remember that rump of yours."[/b] He gestured with his hands, curving a womanly figure in the air, his cane still held in one hand as he looked into the eyes of the original werewolf, he saw the canines trying to push their way out from under her lips.[/size] [size=3][b]"Nope, i think I am mistaken, i do not believe we have ever had any sort of sexual interaction. Hold on a second, i could be wrong again, but i don't know, is that tea? I would like a spot of tea if that would be acceptable."[/b] He showed her a huge smile then, his cane stuck under his arm as he held with his fingers locked together and batting his eyelashes. He heard a growl come from here before letting out a huff and pinching the bridge of her nose. [/size] [size=3][b]"So you are the Lich Lord I take it? I wish your file had, prepared me more for your arrival."[/b] [/size] [size=3][b]"File? Oh heavens no, those files are never up-to-date and they never seem to peg me right in those things so i burn them every so often. Or I think I do, do they shred them? Perhaps they get a goat to come in an eat them every so often, no that seems impractical, i mean where would they keep the goat for that kind of work? It's just strange, ah tea!"[/b] He went to a kettle that was set on the stove, and rooted around in the cabinet to find a tea cup, pouring the hot water and dunking a tea bag into his cup several times before applying sugar and milk. His pinky extended he sipped the cup lightly, grinning at Akieen as she had her arms crossed once more as she observed the Lich, his eyes wandering as his hair tossed about lightly.[/size] [size=3]OOC: Hope this is good, wanted to make a bang with his entrance.[/size]

[size=3][b]Name:[/b] Barracus Sevarus Alerian Novara the IV[/size] [size=3][b]Age:[/b] Stopped keeping track after 2600, looks late 20â??s when not decaying[/size] [size=3][b]Gender: [/b]Male[/size] [size=3][b]Species:[/b] Lich Lord[/size] [size=3][b]Human Appearance:[/b] Barracus has the appearance of an eccentric aristocrat, standing at a typical height of 5â??10â? of average size and somewhat fit build he plays to his role well. Dressing in any kind of suit he can find, whether pinstripe or plain, dress shoes and white driving gloves. His favorite accessory is his top hat, always seen wearing the same hat atop his short wavy brown hair.[/size] [size=3]His eyes are a mixture of colors; one is partly blue and brown while the other is completely green. His eyes being the only thing to distinguish him as a Lich in any form as the color variation is far from natural and different variations determine amongst the different levels of Lich. He likes to keep his face clean, sporting a perfect goatee that is about an inch long, he always seen wearing a smile, whether it is a good or bad smile, never know until itâ??s too late.[/size] [size=3][b]Changed Appearance: [/b]Barracus only changes with the over use of his power, if he uses too much to quickly he literally begins to fall apart. His flesh shrivels and peels away, his muscles atrophy even though he can maintain his balance and stance without issue. His hair falls out and his body literally becomes that of a walking corpse, though he can create this change on his own if he desires. This reveals the true form of the Lich, though his eyes remain even with all the decay.[/size] [size=3][b]Personality:[/b] Eccentric, playful, persuasive, rambunctious, mad. These are only a few things that can even attempt to describe what Barracus is, his own mind having peeled away layers of lies and shielding it had created in his mortal existence. Leaving only the true essence of which he is, though it sometimes let lose horrible things into the world, it also has allowed him to be as creative as he wants. Looking at problems with a mindâ??s eye that isnâ??t all where it should be provides a new prospective on everything.[/size] [size=3]His madness can quickly become obvious with sudden changes of mood, from playful and joyous, to rage and murderous intent. He believes he no longer controls his mind, but that his mind just does at it wants and he gladly follows. Those who have grown close enough to him can catch the moments in which he might change suddenly, but even then, the predictability of intensity, is impossible.[/size] [size=3][b]Weapons/fighting style:[/b] Barracus uses no weapons, he does however like to carry a cane with him everywhere and this cane is very important to him as it serves as one of his main conduits for his power. It is a very simple cane with a glass orb atop the shaft that seems to give of an eerie green glow, though if you look directly at it, you miss it entirely and it simply looks like a clear orb. This is not the case, as it is really a reliquary for when he cannot contain them within himself, a reliquary for souls he collects along with the positive and negative forces people give off, leaving him with no short supply as long as he is around the living. His strength is his power, as fleshy a human; he has the power over the forces of nature: fire, water, earth, wind, light, dark anything that the earth itself creates he can manipulate to his own advantage.[/size] [size=3]If he, however, sheds his flesh and becomes the true Lich Lord, he loses all dominion over those elements to embrace the power of Necrosis and Necromancy. Able to raise beings from the dead, use their life force to increase his strength or to repair damage done to his body. His necrotic powers can be used through distance or touch, though distance only affects small areas and his touch can erode entire bodies in moments. Many have discovered his secret about his cane, those who have tried to take it only found death. Those who succeeded found it was nothing more than a curse on their lives, as it is solely connected to Barracus to prevent other lichs from using his power. Also in this form, he is able to remove his own body parts and animate them to do as he wants, reconnecting them later on.[/size] [size=3][b]History:[/b] (will complete once I get home)[/size]

[size=3]30 May 2015[/size] [size=3]210 miles south of Caras 13:45[/size] [i][b][size=3] [/size][/b][/i] [size=3][i][b]â??This darkness persists; will it ever come to an end?â??[/b][/i] War loosely hung on to the reigns of Ruin as he galloped across the landscape. His hooves tearing clumps of grass and foliage from the ground, scorched patches of earth left in the wake of the war horse. War was sitting up straight in his saddle as he looked at the world covered in the perpetual darkness; an unnatural stillness was always present as the remaining animals no longer had a means of telling night from day. The Nightmares, however, had grown in numbers and in ferocity since the darkening began. Attacking any and everything in their path, War had come across more than his fair share of shredded corpses and destroyed caravans. The most unsettling was his short time he had spent in the town of Caras, the simple Horsemen controlled trading town and the occupants being plagued by the ever growing nightmare threat. War kept his eyes on the horizon, or what his optics determined was the horizon, and tries to listen for any noises coming from the sporadic trees and bushes that appeared on his journey.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]He scanned the darkness as often as he could, knowing that at any moment his situation could change and leave him in yet another fight for his life. He wasnâ??t concerned for his own safety, his armor had maintained itself well through each skirmish he had encountered since his departure from the town of Caras, but the memories of that place were determined to try and break down his barriers in his mind. Gnawing at the walls like the collection of Pride, Envy and Gluttony Cardinals had down to Caras, his own soldiers had maintained the walls for days before hand. Keeping the city safe for as long as it could while trying to keep the bandit clans and their savage ways at bay and maintain a sense of order in the utter blackness that now was everyoneâ??s reality, one that wasnâ??t going to relent in the foreseeable future. War lowered himself in his saddle, no longer feeling the need to scan for any approaching threats as Ruin continued his forward push through the night. Warâ??s mind finally began to recall the events of the night almost two days ago, or was it two nights ago? The question was no longer relevant as everything belong to the night, his mind rewinding the clock for the Horsemen known as War.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]29 May 2015[/size] [size=3]Caras, 09:12[/size] [size=3]The battle had last for 24 straight hours now, only minor respites were given to the warriors of Nephilim as they did all that they could to prepare for the next assault from the ever bolding Nightmares. All of them doing any sort of weapon maintenance to try and give them the edge against the creatures born of this endless night. War walked through the ranks of his soldiers, seeing them sitting and taking shelter from the harsh wind and concealing their location to try and surprise the next wave, his eyes floating over them all as he saw the learned rituals. He could see some gathering ammo from the supply depots they had scattered in Caras, though half of those starting numbers had lost their firearms in the first assault and had now resorted to their swords, clubs, spears, knives, and anything else they had that could provide the defense they needed. Some had even pulled out shields that had been given to them in boot camp; it seemed that all of the shields had been altered over their time of service. Whether it was some form of weight distribution, or adding a strip of spikes down the center, they all were unique to the carrier. This would save their lives for a little bit longer, maybe long enough for something to happen, long enough for Warâ??s signal to have reached Nephilim and called in some sort of reinforcements. War was still holding his sword, his grip having never relaxed even when out of combat, one of his soldiers had met her demise as a rouge Cardinal had wormed its way past the carnage and attacked her. [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]Leaping from the piles of bodies, it had revealed itself as a Gluttony, clamping down on her body with its massive jaws, shredding her armor and it swung her in its jaws as she had flailed and screamed. Her weapon arm swinging at the awkward angle it was at as best she could, the axe sinking into the creature before it reached up with one of its appendages, the only way War could describe what the creature used for eating its prey. It used its appendage to grasp her flailing arm and rip it from her torso, tossing it aside as it continued to shake her more violently, its massive hooked teeth ripping her skin and body apart into red chunks. Eventually snapping her neck with the force, ending her misery quickly, but not quick enough to save her from suffering her fate, War had been the one to slaughter the Gluttony with a few quick sweeps of his blade. He had come to know that the girls name was Tannis, a name he hadnâ??t heard before and a name he wasnâ??t sure he would always remember. Though, he knew his soldiers here would forever remember all the ones who had fallen today, if any of them survived the endless night. The loss of several soldiers was but a buzz in the ear of War, though his own troops seemed to suffer as their morale seemed to weaken and fade. War could only try to imagine what they were thinking; something that he had separated himself so far from that it was almost an unfathomable task for his mind. Every life lost was just simply gone rather than having a ripping effect on his soul as he could see in the eyes of the Horsemen. All of these thoughts and conceived notions of emotions and souls was beneath him and the original Horsemen.[/size] [b][i][size=3] [/size][/i][/b] [size=3][b][i]â??Or is it, beyond us?â??[/i][/b] The question echoed in his mind for just a few short moments, but had all the power it needed to start something within him that he wouldnâ??t identify until another time. For now, another wave of monsters was coming, the sword in his hand called to battle, and he was going to sate its thirst for combat. He could hear the sounds of the creatures coming at them from all sides; he knew this would be the fight that would be the last push for his troops; they would either come out with a victory, or fall into the dust. He moved around the bulwarks and could make out the tangled mass of what was the approaching Nightmare horde, what kinds didnâ??t matter as much as that his numbers were less then thereâ??s. He may equal 10 men, or 100 nightmares, but it eventually wouldnâ??t be enough if all of his support was eradicated. He heard them light clinking of metal plates moving and the rustling of shields as they arranged into a solid shield wall, something that would buy them precious time. War was in front of the wall of metal, seeing the red shapes coming closer he let the question fade from his mind and his resolve solidify into cold rage and the hunger for battle. He raised his sword into the air, the dull glint of orange light glinted off the blade as he heard a simple clang of weapons on shield, and no voices were raised as they could see this might be there end. They would give nothing to their enemy, and take everything they could from this world before they faded into the abyss. War lowered his blade, getting into his stance as he planted his feet firmly into the earth and gripped his blade tightly. He could already feel the pressure of the crash of bodies, the deafening roar of the Prides and the scrap of their claws on his armor. [/size] [size=3]Time seemed to stand still as they all waited for the wave to crash into them, the anticipation always the worst feeling for all of the soldiers of Nephilim, or for any man or woman across the world. It was the moments before that showed who the lions were and who were the lambs, the ones who would run from the fight and those who would stand and fight with all their might. Warâ??s optics began its calculation of distance, the number quickly ticking away as flew across his eyes, the number falling from quadruple digits, to triple in a flash as the horde surged forward. He could only stand so much more of this before his other hand reach down and pulled a long knife from its place, the need for another weapon had come across him. As if they were his claws and teeth and this is what would save him from the Nightmares, he heard the hollow thump of metal on the ground as the shield wall suddenly dispersed. Each soldiers drawing two weapons, the few that had firearms held that in one hand with a knife, axe or sword in the other while the others followed Wars example or brandished two handed halberds, great swords, Falchions and spears that could be wielded as such. The decision had been made; this was to be their last stand, no matter what happened now. [/size] [size=3]They would all fight, and they would all die but they would take every last one of these Cardinals with them. The waiting was over with as War started walking forward, the platoon following him. Starting off at a walk at first, it started to pick up quickly as he went from a slow walk to a trot, then to a run, then to a dead sprint as he held his great sword before him. They were all still silent as they charged; the expenditure of energy to roar at these faceless monsters was just a waste they could not bear. The number still rapidly counted down, the distance shortening faster with their charge until War was sure they would clash any moment. Their world was suddenly enveloped in a bright light, causing all things on the ground to stop to shield their eyes from the sudden burst of light. Hands went up to protect eyes, heads turned down as huge gusts of wind whirled up and created dust devils that swirled with unknown power. Then the light was replaced with a greater flashes of orange and reds, a concussive wave buffered War and his soldiers as they staggered back from the explosions. The screams and screeches of the Nightmares lost in the deafening shockwaves that pushed at everything around, expanding further and further as the flashes intensified for several moments then completely vanished. Leaving behind only a billowing cloud of black and gray that was instantly lost in the night sky.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]The soldiers of Nephilim all looked up as the ringing left their ears, their eyes seeing what had arrive in stunned silence. They all rose up as once in a cheer, their weapons held up to the sky as War looked to the source of the blinding light. A grin crept on to his face from under his helm as his thoughts were reinvigorated and brought back to thoughts of bringing the world under control once more.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]War pulled himself from his own mind as the sounds of the world around him crept back in, Ruin still galloping at its constant pace without any direction from him. He had also noticed that Ruin had changed directions ever so much, pushing just a few degrees off. He was about to pull his steed back to its designated course when he caught sight of something burning, the distinct orange glow of something ablaze. He tightened his grip with one hand on the reigns and pulled his sword free with his other, the gallop picking up to a dead run as the glow grew brighter. His audio sensors soon picked up the distinct sound of humans, the voice patterns registering across his vision as the lines bounced up and down to determined different pitches and voice being used. He could hear several of them; all of them had the undertone of creating dark intentions. In the mix of the dark voices, he heard the soft voice of someone else, a young child from what his sensors could perceive. It was enough to get him to charge faster as the soft voice let out a scream, the glow a bright blaze now as Ruin busted through the trees of the growing forest.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]War had no time to reign in his war horse as he could only see the image in small clips, enough to see corpses scattered about, caravans being looted then burned by men and women clad in leathers and tattered coats and jackets. He was about to pinpoint the source of the scream of the child, a small figure crawling on the ground to escape the carnage and the madness of her world. The chilling laughter of dark thoughts crept form the throat of one man, though it would be the last sound he ever made as Ruin stampeded through the group of bandits. War found the source of the laughter and drove his sword forward, the blade jamming itself deep into the manâ??s body before exploding out the other side. He leapt from the horse, releasing the blade from his grip and twisting through the air to land with a loud thud on the ground. Drawing a long knife and double edged blade he charged forward, twisting and turning as he avoided and dodged crude axes and clubs, lashing out with his own weapons to cut throats and gore his new enemies. The grate over his mouth released with a hiss as he let out a roar, the pitch dropping then raising quickly to cause disorientation in the assailants. The grate closing once more as War slashed at another arm, cutting the limb clean off before turning a colliding his metal boot into the bandits chest. The form lifting from the ground and bouncing across the ground as the Horsemen charged into the fray of confused men, throwing the double edge knife in his hand at another before jamming the long knife in the top of a womanâ??s skull. Releasing the knife he pulled several smaller blades free, no cross guards on the handles, throwing all of them with his maximum strength. The blades that made contact with bodies sank all the way up to the end of the grip; other smashed into trees or vanished into the foliage. [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]He surveyed the situation quickly, assessing the numbers that were left to find that only four remained standing. Three had brandished crude hand-to-hand weapons, determination and fear clearly showing on their faces as the last one showed a semi-automatic handgun, leveling it at War. He began to walk forward, his stride confident and his posture was straight as the three with the hand weapons all parted out of his path, taking the chance to flee from the bloody scene. The lone man holding the gun quacked before pulling the trigger, the flash and the loud bang resonated throughout the forest as it struck War square in the chest. His progress slowing for just a moment before he resumed his steady walk, another round firing off as it impacted his armor once more still he walked. The bandit pulled the trigger as fast as his fingers would allow each round ringing out as it collided and bounced off of Wars armor. War took his last few steps, hearing the audible click of the empty clip in the handgun as he towered over the figure. The fear palpable in the eyes of the bandit as War quickly took hold of the banditâ??s throat, the gun forgotten as he used both hands to pull at Wars hand as he was lifted from the ground. [/size] [size=3]Brought face to face with the cold metal expression of the Horsemen of War, the Sword of Nephilim, the red gaze seeming to pierce into the heart and mind of the quivering human. His voice came softly from behind the helm, his voice distorted with an electronic tone.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3][b]â??We see all that you do; we know everything that transpires in this wild world. Tell everyone of the Horsemenâ??s reach, and preach to them of what has occurred here today. No force on this earth can stop us, no matter how strong you think you are.â?[/b] He released the man, his legs unable to support him as he fell hard on the ground, scrambling away from War before turning and finally running away. War turned back and started walking, Ruin standing near the small person that had created the scream he had heard. Looking down on the small form, he could see that it was just a little girl, her hair long and colored a deep brown. Her clothes were dirtied and tattered and tears were welling up in her eyes as she stayed close to the war horse. He kneeled down to the shaking girl, staring at her for several moments as he felt something deep within try to rise up and remind War of something from a time long before his ascension. But, the feeling was just enough to keep him from walking away from this child, to leave her to die. Instead, he did something out of his character, something he would have never considered beforehand. [/size] [size=3]He reached out to the girl, one massive hand held out palm up with the fingers relaxed, staring at her through the hue of red before the little girl reach out slowly. Taking his hand he pulled her forward and until she let go of his hand and wrapped her arms around his neck, pressing her face into his shoulder. He stood from his kneeling position and mounted Ruin without any words spoken, reigning in Ruin and turning south once more; the war horse took off in a dead sprint. He held on to the little girl as he raced home, back to the city of Nephilim.[/size]

[size=3][b]28 May 2015[/b][/size] [size=3][b]10 miles outside of Caras, 0847[/b][/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]The night sky was an ever present companion for War now, he had been riding for almost six straight hours and nothing had changed at all in the darkness of the world around him. His ride was at first paced and even as to keep his eyes on the dark world around him as he knew this was the prime time for nightmares to rove and overtake travelers in the darkness. War wouldnâ??t fall to these primal creatures, his blades were all sharp, his revolver was loaded and the 30 mm grenade was safely tucked into its chamber. His pace had steadily picked up as the world continued to remain pitch black, nothing visible for miles even though the time was reaching the early morning, when the sun should have been peaking from the eastern horizon creating gray skies that would become hues of white and blue as it took its proper place in the sky. With the lack of light, Ruin suddenly became a massive beacon to the rest of the world and all of the horrible creatures in it. And those creatures didnâ??t fall solely upon the shoulders of humans turned Nightmares, it also encompassed the rouge clans and nomadic gangs that saw all this land as theirs. [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]Thanks to Wars efforts, several major cities knew very clearly who the Horsemen were and several of those had watched them raze cities for not cooperating with the regulations and rules the Horsemen were pushing on them. Though they had laws they made universal there were even more sub laws that only applied to different place, different conditions and stipulations were applied. Phenix still resides under the group of cities the Horsemen called the Cities of the Lost, people and groups that they viewed as lost in their delusions of grandeur and â??freedomâ??. They would never be free as long as they held on to their broken ideas of fairness and control, they hypocrisy was obvious to one such as War; he could only hope he could make the rest of the world see the same. These gangs had become somewhat of a pet project of his, sometimes deviating completely from his journey to crash right into the nomads. The intelligent ones learned that he was to pass without any altercation, typically the smaller clans roaming about. There were still larger gangs that were proving to be harder to break then the others, but he would manage it in time, with each body he created and with each head mounted on a pike he created a little more fear in them. [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]The Riders were current the highest priority on his list during his cross country journeys, but with the world completely settled into darkness, they had fallen off his radar for the time being as Ruin raced through the ongoing abyss of the world War once called home. The great steedâ??s hooves pounded on the desolate earth, thumping as each hoof bore the full weight of the mount for only precious moments before thrusting it forward. Its flaming mane showing brightly in the blackness, the trail of fire more vibrant and exaggerated then it had ever been before. His helm served its purpose well, the optics allowing him to see far enough into the darkness to avoid ambushes or patrols and the audio system in the helm picked up all the sounds around him. He could clearly hear Ruin stomping, the sound of the steeds steady breathing and the miscellaneous clicks, squeaks, scraps, howls, yelps, screams and the other vocalizations that hid everyone within the eternal night. War thought back to the sounds of the night when he, Addley and Varg had trekked up the mountain.[/size] [size=3] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------[/size] [b][size=3]25 May 2015[/size][/b] [b][size=3]Mountain side, few miles outside of Hlidskjalf 0111[/size][/b] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]The terrain had become rocky and unbalanced as the three pushed their way through the thick forest and shrubbery. Addley moved with a fluidity that showed training given during the time after the fall dodging through the trees, Varg flowed with the nature of things as he was one with the nature around him and seemed to know every curve of every tree. War, was far from the subtle type as he pushed his way through the bushes, using his sword to cut through trees that bared his path that he couldnâ??t move his way around. The crack of a trees branch or trunk echoed when War would smash through it with sheer force alone, the terrain didnâ??t lessen any as they continued to forward and his path of destruction grew as the trees became thicker. After several minutes of Wars antics, Varg was hard pressed to remain silent any further as his home was being ripped apart by this being with immense lack of caring for the world around him.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??If you cannot proceed farther without destroying anything more Horsemen, then you should turn back now. I do not take kindly to such needless destruction.â?[/b] War looked to the Berserker then, calculating the distance between them, the amount of time it would take Varg to change, how quickly War could swing the blade held firmly in his hand. The odds seemed to favor neither of them, Varg was in his home territory, but War had the superior weapons for the job. He kept his stance firm as the Horsemen prepared for any ramification for his next rods.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Everything is senseless in this world, until everyone is under the protection of the Horsemen you all suffer needlessly.â?[/b] Varg tensed just enough to signal to War that anything could happen in the next few moments, Addley had taken notice of the two absences, especially when the sound of War crashing through the forest had completely faded and stood between the two warriors. Irritation was clear on her face as she took on a commanding stance, a stance that War viewed as familiar in the way she stood, as if he had seen those motions before. He dismissed it quickly enough as she began to speak.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??This is all fine and dandy, but we have a more important task to deal with.â?[/b] Addley pointed out blatantly as it was unnecessary for her to elaborate any further as it brought Varg back to the immediate problem. He regained his regal air, the air of a leader of a tribe that depended on him for anything that he could provide though was still independent.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??You are right, we must resume with haste.â?[/b] The two turned quickly and took off into the forest once more, War following behind them at a quick enough pace to keep them insight, through he did not have to go much farther before he caught the two of them staring at something. His own eyes were focused on them as he did not see what they did, but as he reached where they stood and looked at what had them so transfixed, he couldnâ??t help but feel awe at what he saw, and deep seeded need to crush the beings that had executed such a plan.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]War returned from his memories as he found himself approaching a place of floating lights, shining as bright as they could in an ever growing darkness that threatened to swallow the light up and plunge the world into further darkness. Ruin started to slow as War came closer to the city, eventually slowing to a trot as he found a crude gate blocking his way, looking over the construction he could see it was only meant as a deterrent rather than a legitimate gate. He looked around the edges, seeing the raised platforms that allowed for those inside to look out over and see who was at their gate, and put them down if necessary.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Who goes there?â?[/b] The voice echoed as War looked for the source, the darkness alone would have made it easier to find, but the extra light interfered with his visuals and he was unable to pinpoint it exactly.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??It is War, open you gate before I am forced to open it.â?[/b] He heard shouts from the other side then, people moving and then the gate opened form one side. Opening far enough for the Horseman and his steed to walk through before it was pulled back into place. He saw the faces of the townâ??s folk with their older weapons, guns that had been used for hunting were now held at the ready for a completely different purpose. He knew this city well, it was one that had became a regular contract for the Horsemen, though they didnâ??t have much, they offered trade and supplies that they were able to acquire more easily then Nephilim could manage. It was a rather small town as well; the population was only about 2000 strong but they were an effective at getting things done. The gate they had erected was only part of the larger wall that had been created, using spare lumber and the cities round shape, they simply filled in the empty spaces of the town to build their defenses. War quickly took account of the defenses, his eyes finding the men that were here constantly to maintain the order and keep this town safe, as it was one of the trade towns for Nephilim. They were obvious to anyone who saw them, they bore the distinct armor of the city of metal and glass, the armor was a mixture of both medieval Europe ancient Greek designs. Crafted to provide maximum protection to the front and back of the torso by covered it all, yet it was segmented on the sides and the abdomen and lower back to give them the ability to bend and move more freely. Their upper arms were completely encased the in armor with pauldrons that had razor edges on the top of them, forearms had plating covering the top portion and a soft leather to cover the joints and leather gloves with plating on the back sides. The lower half of their body was armored all the way down, the plates on the front half were segmented as well, and the back half was leather.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3]Their armor was dingy and caked with dirt from all the time spent in this town, the helms they wore bore his crest, the red sword, and left their faces open to the world. War dismounted and approached a solider he identified as the commander of the platoon by the design on his chest and the blade at his belt. All Nephilim soldiers were trained in both close quarters combat and long range, all carried both firearms and any melee weapon they so desired. The only exception was the Commander and Lieutenants of each platoon, each Lieutenant carried a dagger with them at all times. With their houseâ??s crest and Wars symbol etched into it with their initials and rank etched into it as well. Commanders all carried the same weapon at their belt, Bastard swords made of the most durable and resilient metal the scientist of Nephilim had been able to create. Both Lieutenant and Commanders weapons had built in computers in the handles of the weapons, scanning fingers prints and DNA sequences to confirm the wielder was the original owner. Others who tried to wield the weapons were given and electric shock that forced their hands to release the weapon. Approaching the commander, he instantly stood at attention, his fist placed to his chest in the salute to his only master in the field.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [b][size=3]â??Report commander.â? [/size][/b] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Sir, the Nightmares of this region have become more of a problem of late, they have tried to raid this village multiple times. The darkness seems to have given them the need to fight; they press on the walls every 30 minutes to an hour tops sir.â? [/b]War looked at the other shoulders who stood at attention nearby, their faces revealed nothing of what they were thinking, but that was what they had been taught. Even in the direst of times, they would give the enemy nothing, not even the sound of their own screams as they died. The training for that kind of pain was always difficult to gauge, every man had a different threshold of pain, and the process left every man and woman scarred in multiple of ways. The armor did more than just protect them from the world; it covered the secrets of the Horsemen. War looked over the weapons they all carried, the ones that were close enough for him to see, most had their weapons in working order and others, as he heard from the commander, were lost in the recent battles and they resorted to their melee weapons. [/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Horsemen, fall in!â?[/b] War spoke aloud, those his tone was hardly louder than his normal voice it was nonetheless powerful enough to draw in the nearby. Few others bolted the opposite directions to collect the rest of the force, War waited patiently for his soldiers to arrive, the ranks filling up quickly to reveal that 60 men were stationed in Caras this time around. The commander had made it known that they had started with 70 men before the darkness struck, three of them had been killed by nightmares the previous day, four more had been ambushed a week pasted by one of the wild gangs, and the last three were being carried for by the town physician. War examined them all closely; most of them had all of their armor and gear in rather pristine condition, something the boot camps and 200 hours of training demanded they do to be the best military force in the known world. Though some of them, showed greater wear and tear then the others revealed, and these soldiers appeared to have lost their firearms in their struggles. As the last soldier filtered in, standing at attention War paced slowly before them, his imposing figure casting great shadows over them as the orange glow of both gas and electric lamps hung on posts dug into the earth to brighten the streets, more lamps added to each post since the darkness had arrived. The commander approached then, standing behind War as he paced for a few more moments then stopping before them with his hands held at his sides. [/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Are the troopâ??s ready commander?â?[/b] War said as he turned his head enough to see the man standing behind him, he gave a quick nod to the being that was deemed the Sword of Nephilim in the field. Giving him supreme command over all who wore the crest of Horsemen, no matter what they had trained as or were under in the limits of the city. War looked to the soldiers before him, his optics picking up the faces of both the men and women of this platoon.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Your commander has told me the nightmares are emboldened by the darkness. That they rally against this town every hour on the hour, and that we lost Bast, Talsk, and Grey to the darkness. Know that they will not be forgotten, they were soldiers of Nephilim and they fought and died for our glorious city, and we will avenge them!â?[/b] He had heard their murmurs when he spoke of the Nightmares, he could feel their grief build up within them, and he turned it quickly into a matter of revenge a means of creating an outlet for these veteran soldiers. He heard their agreement as he could hear guns clicking and weapons being drawn.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [b][size=3]â??Who are we?â? [/size][/b] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Horsemen!â?[/b] The soldiers cried out, raising their weapons to their leader.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [b][size=3]â??Who can stop our rise in this world?â?[/size][/b] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??No one!â?[/b] They roared back, their blood boiling now as they let the battle lusts build in them. They let the rage and hatred for the creatures of this world rise higher and higher within then, numbing themselves from the world and only focusing on the glory of murdering the creatures of the abyss. Suddenly, the walls began to rattle as shrill shrieks and roars came from the outside walls, the gates rattling back and forth as the nightmares attacked once more. The scrap of claws on wood rang clearly in the empty night, ripping and tearing at the soft planks as they tried with all their might to get in. The strongest of the townâ??s men were holding the gate now, using all their strength to hold back the encroaching rush of the Nightmares. War moved to the sound, his sword being drawn rang with a clear sound, the dull glint of light reflecting off its exterior as he stood before the gate now, his soldiers behind him as they all prepared for the night ahead.[/size] [b][size=3] [/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Move away from the gate, this is Horsemen business.â? [/b]The men of the city quickly obeyed Wars order, rushing back into their homes and sealing them shut. War standing before the platoon, is back to them as he watched the gate rattle more furiously, creaking and cracking under the weight of the assault until finally it buckled and the gates exploded inward. The nightmares rushed in, their bodies a seething mass of inky blackness with teeth, claws and madness pushing it forward. War rushed forward then, his sword held high as he charged in to the fray, the Horsemen Corp racing after him with their own weapons raised, and guns blazing in the night with bright flashes and deafening noise. War roared for just a moment before clashing with the darkness, his sword the last thing the creatures of the night witnessed before the end came for them.[/size]

[size=3][i]24 May 2015, Outside Phénix 2212[/i] The Horseman sat atop his mount as it swayed lightly, tapping its hooves against the hard ground in anticipation and irritation. The loud neigh of the steed was unearthly and a truly terrifying sound as it rang out with a hollow echo. The hazy red light glowed softly of the horse, giving it a beautiful yet foreboding look as it pawed at the earth, anxious to run freely into the night. War sat confidently on the saddle, barely holding the reigns with one hand as the other hung casually to his side ready to pull one of his double edged knives for any situation. The vehicles thundered to life then, the sound a solid thump in Wars chest that sent a momentary surge of life through him that made him pull on the reigns, causing his hell mount to read back and let out a powerful neigh. Sobeks head turned then, looking over the horseman with a mischievous look on her face. [b]"You think you could keep up with that pony of yours, horse boy?"[/b] She yelled at him over the roar of the engine, revving it for good measure to get her point across. He felt a twinge then, and itch that was faint but annoying enough that he felt the need to scratch it. The feelings he was suddenly struck with we're felt by Ruin as well who pass and snorted with the need to run. The vehicles surged forward then, the all terrain tires tearing through the hard ground as War raced forward on Ruin to keep up with the pack of motorized monsters. War leaned over Ruins neck as the horse pushed its head further forward to make itself more stream line. Wars crest atop his helm acting as a blade as it cut through the air to lessen his own drag upon the beast. Hanging on with still only one hand, War kept the other hand held back as he pressed his knees to Ruins side for just a moment, the war horse knowing the signal as he started to push harder forward. His hooves smashing into the ground each step pushed the powerful horse forward, a light trail of fire following behind the racing beast as it maintained a steady pace in the rear of the pack. He saw, just for a quick moment, the movement of Sorbeks head to gauge his placement then went back to the shifter and hitting the gas. Just seeing her gauge him like that, flared to life something he hadn't felt when it came to the mortals of the world. He felt the burning of competition, the need to push forward harder to prove something that overall didn't really matter. Ruin could feel it as well and with no commander from his rider he suddenly surged forward once more. The supernatural horse pushing harder and faster than it had ever needed too. It quickly became obvious that Ruin was much more than just looks, built for power and had ample speed that started to outpace the rear vehicle and kept going. Ruin and War were one as they kept running, faster and faster into the darkness of the night, a flame in the night as each vehicle showed their flood lights to brighten up the dark world. Sorbek glanced back quickly, reaffirming her steady lead only to do a double take as she saw War speeding toward her vehicle and catching up as he rode beside her. Ruin breathed normally, snorting at her as steam pushed its way out of its nostrils and zoomed forward once more as they rode past her to catch up to the vehicle the held Addley and Varg. Riding hard to their side War turned his head and looked into a red world to see Addley signaling for them to pull to a nearby area. Addley pulling off to the side, War and the others followed behind them until they came to a stop. The vehicles powering down as Ruin trotted forward, War bouncing lightly with the slower pace before stopping and dismounting. He walked forward casually, Sorbek walking forward as well as War kept his gaze on Addley and Varg, noticing a slight tension but disregarding it as he started to speak. [b]"Ruin enjoyed the stretch, don't think you can challenge a Horseman human."[/b] His voice was still cold and impartial, but he felt a deep sense of pride in Ruins speed and power. He almost had the mortal need to strut, but he quickly lost the feeling as he let the proud feeling settle down and let everything run its course. Addley and Varg were talking when War moved in, speaking up quickly. [b]"Why did we stop, we could make the journey by sunrise."[/b] Keeping his tone relaxed as he awaited an answer patiently. [b]"We need rest Horseman; we will take turns on watch."[/b] Addley laid out the orders then, Neptune and Oxt gathering bundles of wood for a fire while Jinn went to retrieve a started for the fire. [b]"I shall take first watch; this is our task we should go first."[/b] Varg said, his honor bound ways seem to resonate with War as he held a slightly higher respect for the Berserker and his ways. [b]"No need shifter, I do not require sleep. I will watch through the night, all of you rest after the fire gets going."[/b] War turned away then, not bothering to listen to any objections as he took a seat upon a rock settled only a few feet from the camp. He looked out on the half-moon lit night, Ruin trotting to him as he snorted lightly and paws the earth softly. War watched the darkness, his words, as everything else he did, was no boasts but facts he had discovered about himself. Multiple scans after the fall he had seen that his biology had changed to make him the perfect embodiment of War. His ribs had become solid plates, rather than spaced ridges to protect against hardier weapons and his bones had become denser to prevent breakage. His adrenal system had changed as well, his entire body was in a constant adrenal state, cycling his body every day gave him not stop energy. He could go a very long time without sleep, his last memory of his longest time was 347 days. It also changed his metabolism, working harder but it burned his energy slower, allowing War to go months without food and water. It was a change that was subtle, something others wouldn't see unless they were to cut him open and examine his body. His mind became lost for several moments in how things had changed so much and so quickly in three short years. The time he let his mind wander off the task, was time he could have seen the attack coming sooner, he came back to the cold world in time to see a barrel chest creature charging him. Dodging out of the way as the creature lunged forward, a dagger appearing in his hand as he cut into the under belly of the gorilla like creature. Not doing enough damage but enough to create more noise, rousing the others as War stood on two feet now. His dagger away as he drew his blade, the metal making a distinct ring as it was drawn from its scabbard. He looked at the monster in his red vision, the puffed out chest and gorilla stance with its distorted face of snarls and twisted features made it clear it was a Pride Nightmare. And where there was one, there was always more, and sure enough the others arrived as well. Varying sizes and stances dictates different stages of the nightmares, but they were all of the same cardinal sin. [/size] [size=3]War felt a twinge of something, was it guilt or something else? War disregarded the idea of guilt instantly, knowing they were here because of him, but it was simply a matter of time before they showed up. Guilt was a mortal emotion, and emotions were things that kept mortals in their own worlds, trapped in their constantly fluctuating sense of feeling. War would not succumb to that, never would he be part of that mortal world again as they were all simply over sized piles of dust waiting to blow away in the wind. The Pride nightmare rushed him once more, using its massive arms to propel it forward as it stood on equal sized legs to try and smash down on the Horseman. War didnâ??t bother with anything fancy, simply lashing out with the blade in one hand, the great sword gliding through the body of the nightmare. The creature just close enough to get its gut torn open, but far enough to not be completely disemboweled. It crashed to one side of War as it thrashed on the ground, seemingly trying to pull its guts back into its destroyed body.[/size] [size=3]He moved away from the dying creature and waded into the thickest part of the battle not ensuing, the nightmares lashing out trying to assert their dominance in this situation. The one who had the most pride would be the one they would seek out, the one they needed to crush under their fists and tear into them. This band, however, wasnâ??t going to fall to a handful of pride nightmare, they would be dispatched quickly enough and then camp would resume. But, that all quickly changed as several forms arrived out of the darkness once more, but these forms mimicked the shapes and bodies of all of the members of the party. Addley, Neptune, Sorbek, Jin, Varg, Makt, Oxin, Orin and finally War appeared in the fray of the battle. They werenâ??t exact copies, but they were enough to be a true threat in the darkness of the night and the fighting quickly escalated as War was swinging his blade to try and destroy the Pride and the newly added Envies of the battle. The party quickly started to split up, the Mentals and the Berserkers were pushed away from Addley and Varg as they stood beside War.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Go! Continue with the mission, we will catch up!â?[/b] War heard Addley yell over the snarls and growls from the nightmares, the Berserkers seemed hesitant until they saw the distinct head nod from their leader. Running from a fight wasnâ??t what they did, but in this case the mission was more important than a fight with these pathetic creatures. Powering up the vehicles, they quickly took off into the darkness, leaving behind one vehicle for Addley and Varg. Moving back slowly, War could see that both Addley and Varg hadnâ??t even exhausted any of their energy fighting these creatures. Varg hadnâ??t even shifted and Addley seemed calm and collective through the whole thing, using her mind to find the best way to eliminate the nightmares.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Cover your ears.â?[/b] He saw them both just glanced out of the peripherals before complying quickly. A grate opened across the mouth of his helm, fresh air rushing in as War let out an earth shattering roar. Both of the combatants in front of him felt deep rumble vibrate within their chest cavities, the nightmares all seemed to roar and recoil with the sound. They looked dazed and confused for several moments before it seemed to leave them all un a frenzied state, some turned on other nightmares. Prides assaulting the Envies, while some envies did the same to the Prides, but some seemed to keep their attention on the three before them. The grate closed over his mouth once more, an audible hiss following as it pressurized once more.[/size] [b][size=3]â??What the hell was that War?â?[/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Berserk.â?[/b] He kept it short, he didn't need nor desire to explain anything more. War kept his tone calm, his voice feeling strained now after using his Berserk cry a power he hardly used as it was only really useful during great battles. Holding his sword loosely in his left hand, he let his optics scan through the creatures, his eyes focusing on the War lookalike. Pointing his sword at the Envy nightmare, he spoke only loud enough for the two before him to hear.[/size] [b][size=3]â??That one, is mine.â?[/size][/b]

[font=georgia,serif][i]Phénix, City Hall Meeting Chamber, 2135 hours[/i][/font] [size=3]War stood before door now as he surveyed the room, his helmet turning to look at all the people who were crowding into this room for some sort of negotiations. His vision was red as his optics scanned through the room, picking out faces and identifying them with any information they had, the ones it couldnâ??t identify became a priority and slid to far side in his vision. Their image still up, pending on any more information to be received by the bearer within the helm. The bullet had been the least of his problems; it wasnâ??t the first and most certainly wouldnâ??t be the last round ever fired in his direction. Walking his way further into the light, his greatsword hung at his waist and swayed lightly as he walked slowly the few steps it took to make it to the great table. When he came into the light, it became clear he towered over all that resided in the room, but War was something no one was greater than. The General kept his gun aimed on the figure in his dull armor, though Warâ??s eyes ventured elsewhere as he looked to the Leader of the city of Phenix.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Things haveâ?¦. Escalated since I was last here, Cerbero.â?[/b] She kept her arms crossed as she regarded him coldly; neither his size, nor his intimidating armor put any sense of fear in her as it did others.[/size] [size=3][b]â??They most certainly have, the General and I were just having a discussion before you interrupted. And it is President Cerbero, Horseman.â?[/b] He bowed his head ever so slightly, more for a curtsey he had observed rather than any real sign of acknowledgment of her rank. As a Horsemen of Nephilim, he accepted no one as above their laws, Cerbero understood their rules well enough that she could play the game easy enough. Most cities these days understood their codes and how they operated, the few that didnâ??t had either been destroyed or were doing everything they could to appease the Horsemen. War changed his gaze from the leader of the Mentals and turned his head slowly to look at the man holding a gun to his face. His optics scanning the man once more, quickly bringing up his file and presenting his image and his information scrolled by before vanishing once again.[/size] [size=3][b]â??General Whitley, you may lower weapon whenever you are ready.â? [/b]War watched as the General held his weapon firmly for a few more moments before lowering the gun and holding a hard look on the Horsemen before him.[/size] [b][size=3]â??This is none of your business Horseman, your city committing treason as well.â?[/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Nephilim is in no oneâ??s jurisdiction General; our laws supersede your old code. And this city is only 200 miles from my home, it is very much my business.â? [/b]He saw the snarl appear on Whitleyâ??s face as he gripped the pistol tightly in his hand.[/size] [b][size=3]â??My army is far greater than your forces, traitor.â?[/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Tell that to the cities we razed, mortal.â? [/b]Cerbero let a grin slide across her face from under her mask, this particular phrase spoken by War was something that would strike hard and true at the General. His ending words of â??mortalâ?? were also a well known put down from War, of those he viewed as small and pathetic in the grand scheme of things. The General raised his gun once more, the anger on his face was palpable and his skin took on a deep hugh of red.[/size] [size=3][b]â??You like this woman and her band of monsters will surrender to me! Everything will return to as it once was, and this great nation will return to its former glory.â?[/b] War reached out and grabbed the gun in his hand, squeezing the barrel in his hand the audible sound of metal grinding and snapping reverberated off the meeting roomâ??s walls. Removing his hand he continued to stare at him, the helm holding an inhuman gaze upon the hopeless general.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Your actions insight war and you do not wish to bring War upon your people. I am not merciful; I will not grant quarter upon you or the men and women who follow you. I offer you one chance to depart from this room and this city.â?[/b] His voice had remained calm and cold, the words holding a deeper impact at impartial feeling he conveyed. His relaxed stance would fool regular folks, but the General could see that with only a swipe of the hand he could have his sword drawn and through Whitleyâ??s head, if it came down to that. The indignation was visible and he tossed away the destroyed gun before turning away from the procession of people and marching out with his group.[/size] [size=3][b]â??General.â?[/b] War called out to him before he left out the doorway, turning his hateful gaze upon the man clad in metal armor and the bones of people and creatures he deemed worthy to adorn his armor.[/size] [size=3][b]â??If I find you anywhere near Nephilim, Iâ??ll kill you. Dismissed.â?[/b] The General growled before rushing out the door, War having kept his gaze forward before looking to Cerbero once more. Regarding her carefully as he could see her slight movement of her body language that suggested he might have created a worse situation. The tension was relieved when he saw her visible relax, her shoulders lowering just a little bit to give War enough of a hint that he had done what was expected of him.[/size] [b][size=3]â??You certainly have a way with words, Horsemen. I was confident he would have tried to put another bullet in you.â?[/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??They all think they can, but War never halts for anyone.â?[/b] She rolled her eyes at his words; she knew they werenâ??t for dramatic effect as he didnâ??t exaggerate anything he said. But she also knew that he was as far from the human race as anyone could possibly be, disillusioning himself from the species with his siblings. She had distaste for them and their laws they tried to impose upon the world, an attempt at creating order in their world that couldnâ??t be brought to heel by simply claiming to be someone of a biblical creation. She had tried to argue with him on the facts, but he simply turned her down at every meeting of minds. He would simply disagree and return to his stoic manner, a man who no longer considered himself just a man, but an embodiment of a concept that was as old as time itself.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Well, as much as I appreciate your ability to defuse this rather nasty situation, I would ask what your business is and that you conclude it as soon as possible.â?[/b] He stared at her in silence for several moments, his armor rustling softly as he adjusted his stance to face his body towards her.[/size] [b][size=3]â??I have come to look at your generator, Iâ??ve heard quite a few things about it and I wish to know more.â?[/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??That is out of the question War, it is a private matter.â?[/b] He regarded her momentarily before speaking again, his voiced coming out distorted from behind the helmet he wore.[/size] [size=3][b]â??For avoiding an event that could have lead to war on your city, to the death of your community and the desolation of your way of life, I believe you owe me at least this small favor. War would be eternally grateful if you showed me your generator.â?[/b] He saw one of the Mentals step up to Cerbero then, talking to her softly as to try and avoid War from hearing the words spoken between leader and her group. He didnâ??t need to hear them to know they talked about the ramifications of him seeing their biggest advantage in this new world, but War needed to find another source of power for Nephilim and he wasnâ??t going to take no for an answer. He watched for a few more moments before he saw Cerbero flick her hand at the Mental, War hadnâ??t really bothered to remember the face as all Augs and Ascended seemed to look the same to him. Cerbero was different in the fact that she was interesting, her passion for her city and its people intrigued him to the point of respect for her, and though it was minimal it was still better then what he gave most people.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Very well War, Iâ??ll be your guide within our city, so I can keep my eyes on you.â?[/b] He nodded his head to her, letting her lead them out of the conference room and gave her the necessary space to make her feel comfortable. At least, he thought he was as he wasnâ??t sure how to interact with mortals anymore, their actions and customs strange to him since the fall of the meteors had changed him so much. He let his eyes wander, his optics taking in everything it could and sending out the information, it wasnâ??t the first time he was in Phenix, but it this venture would be more of a treat then normally when he was turned away by Cerbero. She had taken him through a few back routes, limiting his view of the city and of anything she had deemed of value to her cities survival. She was an intelligent one, knowing he would record anything that would help him siege this city if it ever came down to that. It didnâ??t take long for them to arrive to a pair of double doors, pulling one open she walked in as War followed. The doors leading into a giant concrete building that had all the bells and whistles of the power plants of yesteryear. Gauges ticking and their needles moving to make sure that the pressure was right; the flow of electricity was released safely and disturbed as needed throughout her city and he could see the massive generator itself that was producing the energy. But, as his optics went over the object before him, scanning everything it could to try and determine what was different about it that wasnâ??t the same about their own in Nephilim, the words suddenly appeared across his eyes then vanishing quickly as he understood their meaning easy enough.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Well, here is our generator horseman. Itâ??s nothing spectacular; it is just another piece of equipment that keeps our city alive in these dark times.â?[/b] War approached it and inspected it carefully, walking around it once, then once more before looking up and down the structure itself.[/size] [size=3][b]â??This is not your actual generator; itâ??s simply the middle man for your operation.â?[/b] Cerbero flinched ever so slightly under her mask, her body maintaining her composure easy enough. Her life as a politician was making her harder and harder to read by all, War did not miss this fact and looked for reactions that should normally be there rather than the obvious reactions she would have. It was always a gamble, as he didnâ??t always guess correctly, but his instincts were sharp and he trusted them above all.[/size] [size=3][b]â??I do not understand what you mean War, this is our generator. This is where we get our power, if you canâ??t see that then you are blind to more than just people.â? [/b]He kept his gaze on the electrical system, looking up and around to see if anything was amiss.[/size] [size=3][b]â??My information says otherwise, your generator doesnâ??t give off the right amount of charge to be the primary source. I request to see the real thing, President.â?[/b] She crossed her arms at him, though he didnâ??t bother to look at her, she didnâ??t say anything to him as she walked a few feet and pulled back an iron gate that revealed an old freight elevator. Hearing the noise caused War to turn slowly at the sound; walking over without a single word spoken to him he stepped into the elevator as she manned the controls. Pulling the gate down once more, she pulled a lever that sent them downward slowly, War watched as the room vanished before him and plunged him into darkness. The only light was an old fixture within the elevator, dimly lit as it wasnâ??t used often and casting shadows upon the two that would have made people think they were the Nightmares that roamed the world freely. He waited patiently for the elevator to stop; no words were spoken between the two of them as they waited for the trip to end. It came soon enough with a clang as it the elevator hit the bottom, Cerberos pulled up the gate and started walking not bothering to guide War as he followed behind her wordlessly. She took him down several corridors before finally arriving to doors marked with biohazard signs and warnings in different languages. She typed in an access code on a pin pad War hadnâ??t bothered to look at, and then pressed her hand against one beside it. The doors opened with a hiss before she pushed it the rest of the way, War following as they came upon a containment unit in the center of the room. It hung midair from cables and wires that snaked their way to the ceiling and vanished into the concrete. The energy within the unit crashed against the walls, as if it were alive and trying to find its way out of its prison. War tried his best to use his optics to scan the object, but it caused too much interference to take anything more than recordings and levels of energy output.[/size] [size=3][b]â??This is impressive Cerbero, what is this energy source that creates such a high output.â?[/b] She hesitated as she seemed to be looking for the right words, it took her longer then War expected, but she eventually spoke and it was enough to get Warâ??s mind working.[/size] [b][size=3]â??It is a person in there, or at least, it use to be a person. Something happened to them that molded them into what they are now, they became their power.â?[/size][/b] [size=3][b]â??Now that is intriguing, how is this possible?â?[/b] Cerbero could only shake her head at him, unsure herself on how this had happened.[/size] [size=3][b]â??It is still a mystery to this day on how or why this happened, but it has proven to be blessing in disguise.â?[/b] War looked at the containment unit through the large Plexiglas sides that made the experience more fascinating as he watched the waves come off the person, the energy pulsating and moving into the circuits that translated that into useable energy. A few questions arose in Warâ??s mind, but one seemed the most troubling for the human way Cerbero acted.[/size] [size=3][b]â??If this is a person, why havenâ??t you contact the doctors of Ravenloft? Couldnâ??t they do something about their condition?â?[/b] The tension in Cerbero became obvious, but War continued to stare at the person within, the ideas of using someone as an energy course had always eluded the Horsemen before. They had attempted this idea, but the mortal form wasnâ??t enough to produce that much energy and keep the subject alive. But if this was possible, then his search would have to be harder pressed, his thoughts were pushed away as he realized Cerberos was speaking.[/size] [size=3][b]â??---their life is nothing compared to the rest of ours, it is an opportunity to good to pass up.â?[/b] War looked over at her, trying to recall the beginning of her words, but they failed to come to him as he had been too entranced by the energy being. [/size] [size=3][b]â??My apologize President Cerbero, could you repeat what you just said. Your generator distracted me.â?[/b] Her body tensed at the request, but complied otherwise.[/size] [size=3][b]â??I havenâ??t talked to the doctors about his condition, because his ability provides more power to our city then 20 of the old generators could. Itâ??s a near limitless energy source that has given us back our lives, the needs of one cannot outweigh the needs of the many. As long as he keeps our city alive, I cannot return him to normal.â?[/b] War understood that sentiment, this was something he strived for constantly and fought for every day of his existence. [/size] [size=3][b]â??Very well, I will do you one favor Cerbero, as this was a far greater secret then I imagined.â?[/b] He stood completely still as his body relaxed, and his eyes shifted from its normal red to a complete white as he let his mind travel. The Path of War ability kicking on as he suddenly saw a massive battle, people dying as screams echoed throughout the battlefield. It lasted only moments but, as all his visions went; it never told him when or where the battle would take place, only that it would come to pass. He returned from his visions and rolled his shoulders, turning his head to head the distinct sound of his neck cracking.[/size] [size=3][b]â??War is on the horizon Cerbero, I see harsh times coming to us all.â?[/b] They left the complex, reaching the top level only to be stopped by one of Cerberos runners.[/size] [size=3][b]â??Ms. President! A group of Berserkers have arrived; they say they have an urgent message to deliver to you!â?[/b] Cerbero looked back to War, he gestured for her to go ahead, following in her footsteps as he prepared to hear the words of the shape-shifters, though he had an idea of what they would say.[/size]

[indent=1][size=3][b]Name:[/b] Marcus Demos[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Age:[/b] 43[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Gender[/b]: M[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Appearance[/b]: Marcusâ?? last know appearance was one of a man who stood tall at a height of 5â??10 with short brown hair and regular build with dark brown eyes and olive tan skin. He has been known to wear just a t-shirt and pants and any old pair of shoes he could find. However, recent reports have seen him wearing a robe that covers him up completely and he is constantly seen with his hood drawn over his head, gloves donned and reported to hearing the clicking sound of sandals. No one has seen his face since, though it is assumed he looks the same as he did before.[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Personality[/b]: Marcus isnâ??t a very warm person; he keeps his thoughts and his feelings to himself as he has suffered a lot of despair in his lifetime. He keeps everything walled off and guarded as best as he can, and it all stems from a deep seeded need to not be the one to lay his problems and burdens on others around him. He has no problem giving out information when it is needed and to solve problems for others when they ask, he just has an issue conversing with people on an emotional level as he thinks more logically then his sister does.[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3]Even though he doesnâ??t show his emotions to the world, he does unleash them when he gets into a fight or in a desperate situation as he feelings push his powers to their highest point to deal maximum damage. He also tries to be more of a team player, and team leader when he has to make the choices for the good of his team, even if it means putting his life at risk.[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Background[/b]: The Demos family is went known throughout the HDF, more known for their longevity within the history of the HDF as they have been one of the longest working families within the HDF. The Demos line can be traced back through the centuries; keeping a detailed history of their family they have been able to trace a Demos back all the way to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The first Demos are still a bit of a mystery, as they are the origin of the powers that have been passed down from one family member to the next. The first one was rumored to be an advisor to a Babylonian king, and while in his service was visited by a god who bestowed the power upon his bloodline. Whether it was true or not, they havenâ??t squandered their power and have done everything within their ability to influence pinnacle events.[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3]Marcus himself was recruited when he was rather young, only 20 years old when they put him into the force and gave him his own team. During the time, he fell in love with one of his team mates and they started their relationship. A year after getting his team, one of his members tried to kill his team for a complicated ritual to achieve godhood. He failed to kill his team, his love almost met her end at his hand but Marcus was about to save her before anything could happen. Marcus disappeared shortly afterwards, his love disappearing with him around the same time. Marcus remained in contact with only a few people during his hunt to find his rouge teammate, and even upon success, he remained gone for several more years. Now, upon hearing of his sisterâ??s death, he returns to the HDF to mourn her and keep his family together.[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Abilities[/b]: Marcus is a powerful magic user, his hands and his mind are they only weapons he needs when it comes to using his abilities. The faster he can think, the faster he can cast, even able to cast without the use of his hands on the simple spells. His powers manifested through runes and symbols from ancient times, the runes being his way to channel his power and making it manipulate the world around him. As he got older, he and his sister developed their powers together to the point they could use them with no drawn symbols, just hand gestures.[/size][/indent] [indent=1][size=3][b]Weapons[/b]: Marcus joined up with a division within the HDF called the Crimson Guard, they being allowed to roam more freely then other divisions. He was given their signature colors and weapons, a sword to use. He followed in the example set by Corporal Blues and carried two blades, both distinct in their looks but effective for their use. [/size][/indent]

[center][font=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][size=3][b][color=black]Name: [/color][/b][color=black]Tyler Larson[/color] [b][color=black]Codename:[/color][/b][color=black] War[/color] [b][color=black]Age: [/color][/b][color=black]34[/color] [b][color=black]Gender: [/color][/b][color=black]Male[/color] [b][color=black]Appearance: [/color][/b][color=black][[url="http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b18/Sagethefiend/Warsimage.jpg"]War[/url]][/color][/size][/font][[size=3][url="http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b18/Sagethefiend/War%20Armor/WarArmorIdea6.jpg"]Armor[/url][/size]][/center] [center][font=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][size=3]War is an imposing figure in and out of his armor, though many never see him outside of his armor those that do know he is no less powerful or intimidating. He stands at an unnatural height of 7 feet and is slim but very muscular and rather flexible for all of his heavy armor. His red eyes and pale skin make people who see it uncomfortable and his armor is technology developed from material and designs from the city of Nephilim. The armor is simple in it's function, the helm containing a build in respirator and optics to try and keep his vision clear in dust storms. [/size][/font][/center] [center][font=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][size=3]His suit is also pressurized, having fought with a few augs with the ability to create a vacuum or apply pressure to his body he has taken precautions. His optics also gather information from where ever he is and, upon his signal through his data pad on his arm, transmits to the citadel to give them a real time update. It also allows for information to be transferred from the Citadel itself, giving War information on places he visits to give him the advantage in negotiations or to promote the knowledge that the Horsemen know everything. [b][color=black]Personality:[/color][/b][color=black] [/color][color=black]War is typically deemed as the most violent and rash of the four, but in truth he is cold and calculating. His words are rather soft spoken though his voice is commanding and even with his soft tone he can control a situation easy enough. He holds himself in a powerful place as he firmly believes he is the true horsemen of War and in his stern belief has distanced himself from the human race, looking at them as nothing more than creatures that have yet to be determined as saved or damned.[/color] [color=black]He is, however, bound heavily by his honor and his warrior code and takes that code with him everywhere as he assesses every situation. Every situation is to be handled the same way, with cold, detached thought and only logical thinking to determine the appropriate punishment for the crime. He is never against thinking outside of the box, using his ability to reason to figure out the more, exaggerated cases. Though many believe War is the one who would be first to insight war and create mayhem and havoc across the world, he considers the act of war as simply another tool in his arsenal. A means to creating a more effective and progressive world by weeding out the weak and infected crops, and letting the strongest and healthiest thrive in their desolate world.[/color] [b][color=black]Power/Augmentation:[/color][/b][color=black] War has an eclectic amount of abilities that coincide with his title. [/color] [color=black]Tools of War- His first is his Silver Tongue, his words have the ability to feed truths and secrets into the minds of Augs and low Ascended to incite them into committing acts of violence and war. This typically works on people who have thoughts of violence but havenâ??t the courage, or ability to commit the act. His next ability most commonly affects those who are on the verge of a high intensity state or are already experiencing an adrenaline rush, the power of Berserk causes those around him to suddenly grow violent and lash out at anyone they can. Feeding them an intense need for bloodshed, they will cut down friend or foe alike to satisfy their need for murder. This, unlike the previous ability, can affect strong Ascended who are already caught up in pitch battle or an intense conflict that draws all of their attention to the situation at hand.[/color] [color=black]Ruin-Wars next ability reflects his status as as Horsemen and serves as his primary means of travel. With just a thought, he can summon a supernatural steed of massive proportions while having donned worn armor. The black steed has bright red markings throughout its body, some look like symbols while others look as if they are cracks in stone with red flames making up its mane and hooves, leaving behind trails of fire in its wake.. The steed never tires, never requires food or water to maintain itself and goes by the name of Ruin.[/color] [color=black]Path of War- This is War's most powerful and most sought after ability, this alters Wars vision and actually allows him to be able to see if war is on the horizon through the choices of himself, or others. However, his vision is only limited to seeing the possibility for war through the current choices that have been made, he cannot see when or where this will occur, only if it will.[/color] [b][color=black]Gang:[/color][/b][color=black] [/color][color=black]The Horsemen[/color] [b][color=black]Weapons: [/color][/b][color=black]Though the times may be modern, Wars arsenal of weapons hardly reflect this idea. His primary weapon is a greatsword that took many hours to craft and hone to a perfect blade, metal used from the very meteors that gave him his powers, allows him to channel his own emotions into the blade to give it extra power behind the swing to cut through anything he needs too, if he can summon the right amount of emotion to give the blade enough power.[/color] [color=black]He also keeps on hand an assortment of knives and daggers, weapons meant to be throw aways as they are thrown or used for various tasks. The only other weapon War carries constantly is a custom made 12 round revolver, that is equipped with a 30mm grenade launcher under the barrel. The gun is massive in size, having to been reinforced and plated to maintain the weight of the launcher and the ammo for it, but as ammo is fairly scarce, it is a weapon used only to make a point or when he deems their execution by pistol.[/color] [b][color=black]City: [/color][/b][color=black] Nephilim- The city of Nephilim is far different then most cities that has been created during the time of the fall. This city is built more like a small metropolis of soaring skyscrapers and industrial builds, very little is grown or farmed in this place as they rely on something else for their prime resource. The ability to protect and serve as an external police force for the rest of the cities, all of their members are dedicated to the idea of creating an order and balance to the destroyed world through any means necessary. The prime leaders of the city are the Four Horsemen; War, Death, Conquest, and Pestilence. Though War has been seen taking charge of the Horsemen when out in the field, they maintain their city through a means of council, the four being the primary and a lesser group being the senate to be the tiebreaker for the Horsemenâ??s choices.[/color][/size][/font] [font=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][size=3][color=black]At the heart of the city of Nephilim, lies the Citadel of the Seven Seals, this is where the Horsemen themselves reside and over look the entirety of Nephilim. Rumors swirl around the citadel itself as no one but the ones designated Horsemen are allowed in and know its secrets, but from their seat of power, they are able to watch the world and keep an eye on the wrong-doings of others and punish those they deem guilty. Their seat of power also gives them the ability to react more quickly and efficiently towards the judicial problems of other cities and towns that call upon the Horsemen for aid in these difficult times.[/color][/size][/font][/center]

[size=3]The coldness of the hallways seemed to reach out to Azriath as he made his way slowly through their home. He could feel the world around him try to bring down itâ??s wrath with a soul crushing strength, showing him no mercy as it did everything it could to break his will. His determination and his dedication to the Forgotten, to the Chapter of the Shadowstomb was what kept him going these days. He did everything he could to make sure his duty was fulfilled, the duty to keep all of these people safe, no matter what they had done in a past life. As one of two people who remembered everything it was like to be in a life before this, to understand what everyone gave up for their cause and could only fathom what kind of questions arose in their minds. He and Hawk lived with it every day, all they had to do was look at another member and the memories were there to access. Whether it was by choice or by sheer force, the memories came to them always and sometimes they were more then someone could handle. Azriath had his own methods, his own rituals and teachings from his mentor that gave him a reprieve from the memories, which gave him time to settle things in his own mind and separate himself from the world. But, he wasnâ??t sure about Hawk and how he managed to take it all in. He knew he was strong, he had the fortitude required for the job of Name Bearer, otherwise he wouldnâ??t have been chosen. [/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??I should investigate one of these days, but it will have to wait another day.â?[/b] He quickly arrived to his room, picking up his bag that he had already carefully packed and left without any further incident. All he passed by simply moved out of his way as he held the backpack over one shoulder, using his other hand to support the strap while he let his wrapped hand hang at his side. The news had spread quickly of what had transpired, and his cold expression was enough to deter anyone from coming near him. He approached the open room before the doorway, showing all of the people who would be accompanying them for their journey. He saw Maxwell and Jerico standing there, Jerico looking nervous and Maxwell seemed excited about the whole thing. His eyes turned to see if the other two additions were made had made the right choice, but his eyes came upon someone he hadnâ??t expected and it got a reaction out of him. Hawk stood near Heartbreaker and they seemed to be in idle conversation, something Azriath had seen before and it was just Hawks way of playing It cool while he surveyed everything around him. He approached him first and pulled him aside in such a way it pulled glances form everyone, Azriathsâ?? entire body screamed that he was anything but happy.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??What the hell is she doing here?â?[/b] Hawk held his ground, his face firm and his hands held loosely at his sides.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??I think itâ??s time she comes along, she is proficient in combat and I have personally trained her as much as I can. And I think itâ??s time we took her out into the field; she canâ??t learn anything more from us here.â?[/b][/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??She cannot go with us; I will not be responsible for her as well as the rest of them.â?[/b] Hawk squeezed his hands into fists then, conflicted that both his friend and his fellow Name Bearer was talking to him in such a way. He had never spoken to anyone like this, it was as if there was something more to the whole thing, and Hawk wasnâ??t sure what it was.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??She is going, having her along wonâ??t hurt.â?[/b] Azriath was about to say more, but he was stopped from saying anything more when he heard more people behind him. He turned to look and saw three faces he expected and one he had not been ready for.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??Magistrate, Iâ??m glad you are here to see us off. Malgus, Kahlan, Iâ??m glad you made the right choice in this matter.â?[/b] They simply nodded to him as they walked off to his side, Malgus hold on to both of their bags while she carried the baby in her arms. Azriath watched them for just a moment before looking to Magistrate and the face that he so despised to look at.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??Yes, I was making sure that you have everything you need and if you have room for one more in your company.â?[/b] Shade moved his way up to stand before the Magistrate and look Azriath in the face, his body slightly hunched and his hands held in such a way that almost reminded Azriath of raccoons pawing at food. His narrow face and scrawny appearance made Azriath want to simply snap his neck like you do with vermin. He held his cold expression as best a she could, even though he could feel the anger welling up inside of him as so many things were going wrong quickly.[/size] [size=3] [/size] [size=3][b]â??Iâ??m sorry Magistrate, I already have more then I originally anticipated and would be hard pressed to take anymore with me.â?[/b][/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??You donâ??t have a choice in this Azriath, we all voted on this action and we need more than just your words and a group of people you picked up to understand how the trip went. We have entrusted Shade with this duty, his report along with yours and all of the ones involved with be taken when you return.â?[/b] Azriath clenched his hands, his bandaged hand stung with the pressure but it was the farthest thing from his mind.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??What is the point of this? His word alone isnâ??t heavy enough to effect what everyone says, he will just get in the way!â? [/b][/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??You will take him, this is not up for discussion anymore Name Bearer. He is ready to go and he knows the risks. Good luck only our journey and return to us, both of you.â?[/b] Magistrate turned and walked away then, Azriath watched him leave before he could say anything more. Everything was spiraling out of control, all he wanted right now was his gun and to leave this place for the time being. Being away, might just cure them all of some sort of sickness that was festering within them all, or everything might just fall apart without him.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??I know you may not like the way this has happened, but let me just sat that I am-â??[/b] A hand went up then, Azriath holding the palm of his hand towards Shades face.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??Donâ??t speak right now, the last thing I need to hear is your annoyance of a voice. Go ahead of us, I donâ??t need to see your face right now.â?[/b] He didnâ??t even bother to look at the disgruntled look on Shades face as he scampered away. Azriath picked his backpack back up, throwing it over his shoulder and standing before the rest of them.[/size] [size=3][/size] [size=3][b]â??Gather your things and say one last goodbye, we are leaving now.â?[/b] He walked away from them all then, making his way to the armory to grab his last item. Pulling the SAW machine gun off the rack, he threw the sling strap over his shoulder and let the gun hang before grabbing a rectangular box and clipped it into his gun, he grabbed another clip and left the armory, ready to get this journey started so he could start to rebuild their order. He[/size]