RPG Harbinger: Eternal Darkness

[tursi]

xanthia didn't have much time to think.

Xanthia: well, here it goes.

cador: xanthia?

Xanthia threw herself at the bacus' midsection and threw him up. the bacus flew into a near by tree and xanthia fell to the ground. [I] my wounds are deep, i'm losing to much blood.[/I] she stood up as the bacus charged at her again, she's useually a person of her word. but if this kept going in this direction, she'll have to break it. she smiled at the chargeing bacus as something silver started to fall from her sleeve.

xanthia: (mubbles) the good for nothing, piece of....

the bacus wasn't far now, and a dagger was almost all the way in her hand. cador didn't know what to do.

cador: i have to do something.

cador started towards xanthia.

Xanthia: (to herself) cador, what in the seven hells do you think you're doing?

[Heartless Me]

Name: Arikel Firebrand

Gender: Male

Age: 65

Appearance: Pretty wrinkly and stuff, well fed, scarred face of course, slightly hunched back, walks with a cane and blind(having lost his sight just a few years ago which btw he has a seeing eye dog a german shepherd named Ahrimal).

Personality: Very kind and intelligent having grown up in a monestary and been learned in many things. Usually quiet and reserved, only talks until spoken to.

Occupation: Scholar/Monk

History: When Arikel was born he was to an unwanting mother so in the middle of the night she carried the baby away and left at the doorstep of a large monestary where she knew he would be taken care of. And just as she thought, her son was taken in and raised. She saw him many times but he never saw her. He took an interest in arcane knowledges and such at a very early age. He studied many things of angels, demons, and mythical beasts. His knowledge was great but his life was sheltered, he denied his right to learn much of the art of defense in exchange for his scholarly studies. He only took upon himself to learn the absolute necessary for all monks to know. Upon the end of the chaos wars, the monestary was laid seige upon and destroyed, he was the only survivor along with several very old books(which i'll allow you to choose what's in the books). From there he traveled the world over imparting his knowledge to anyone who needed it in exchange for a night's rest and a crust of bread.

___________________________________


Arikel was in awe of the return of his sight, but he was not so stunned as to not pay attention to the battle with Xanthia, Cador and the injured Bacus. He caught the flash of silver in Xanthia's hand and yelled out.

Arikel: Go for the wing joint!

He was no good at actual fighting due to his age and limited training but he was very knowledgable and had access to a few tidbits on the weaknesses of the bacus back from the chaos wars. The bacus reached her a few seconds later and slashed but she ducked and weaved taking scratches on her shoulder as she swirved her body around the bacus' back and brought the dagger down upon the wing where it meets the demons back......

OOC: I'll let someone else decide if it hits' or not *cough* carren heart *cough* lol

[Carren Heart]

[I]The Bacus's back stabbed by the swift blades of Xanthia it flowingly moved only suffering a minor wound. The battle raged on for a few more moments Cador, Xanthia, and Arikel now joining the fight. (Throwing rocks and helping them up or mending wounds quickly.) But they started to tier and were beginning to bleed badly from injuries. There seemed to be no hope of survival?[/I]

Injured Bacus: Stupid humans it took four dozen seasoned warriors to defeat the dozen orcs and my partner. What makes you think three could defeat even one of us!?!

Cador: Because our purpose is greater then yours, DEMON!

[I]Cador rushed at the demonic fiend ramming full speed into the creature they both when down with a bang! The demon round a top of Cador rising his claws high to strike him down, when Arikel and Xanthia both grabbed a hold of its claws keeping it from attacking Cador's helpless form.[/I]

Xanthia: I can't keep it still!

Arikel: I'm afraid I'm not nearly the strong young man I was!

[I]Cador tried to worm his way from under the Bacus's still enduring body. Xanthia started losing her grip on the demons claws while Arikel's aging strength began to fail him all looked lost. Suddenly erupting from the iron case a straight beam of twisting light crushed into the Bacus's chest throwing everyone back expect Cador whom laid there breathing deep, breathing hard. Xanthia and Arikel both flew back fourteen feet landing firmly on the ground while the Bacus's yells in pain, the searing light burning his demonic form scaring him at the least it came to a halt against a great oak tree it kneed to the ground holding its chest carefully. It looked over to the iron case and hisses violently then stood up standing it ground, it grinned.[/I]

Injured Bacus: << Laughing >> you can't help them Orin that must of took a lot out of ya ?..

[I]The Bacus's eye brow raised ever slightly, as he notices the iron case emitting a faint white glow. [/I]

Injured Bacus: << Thinking to himself >> what is he doing? Doesn't matter I'd best finish these humans off just in case he tries som?.

[I]An unnaturally brilliant flash of blue light cut off the demon's thoughts as it covered it eyes. [/I]

[B]Cador[/B] --[I]as the brilliant blue light envelopes Cador he feels his muscles tighten and relax looking down at himself he feels stronger then ever before and with a renewed confidence stands up once again cracking his fingers. (Blackheart note your character also has an inhuman fortitude now as well, so have him find this out during the battle.)[/I]

[B]Xanthia[/B] --[I]The brilliant blue light whirls around Xanthia relaxing her body beyond its normal capability she feels an abnormal energy fill her when the world around her slows ever so slightly granting her with exceptional agility and reflexes. (Please remember agility isn't the same as speed, and reflexes allow one to respond mentally as well as reaction quicker physical.)[/I]

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OOC: Arikel and Juuthena because you've only posted a few times your characters won't receive a gift of power yet (you should understand.)

as for Blackheart and Tursi you two have been doing very well so far and I'd like to thank you for posting in my story.

Further note to blackheart and Tursi the abilities your characters have gained are not greater then a demons abilities in those area (yet) but are far greater then most mortal humans ever get.

[tursi]

Xanthia stood up and looked around, she shook her head and saw cador stand up too. [I] what was that? [/I] she heard a growl from behind her. she had forgotten that the bacus was still around because she was distracted by the pretty light that was being emitted. she turned around as she saw the bacus stand up again.

Xanthia: trouble.

cador: huh?

bacus: stupid humans.

Xanthia smiled and felt better that before. she waited for the bacus to make a move this time.

Xanthia: Arikel, watch yourself.

Arikel: don't worry about me.

Xanthia: what ever you say.

[Heartless Me]

Arikel watched on as the battle raged between Cador, Xanthia and the Bacus. The younger two seemed to be fairing alot better after having being bathed in the light. Places where Xanthia normally would have been hit hard, She would dodge with much greater ease. Hits that would not even phaze a bacus from Cador actually nearly knocks the wind out of the person. Arikel looks on watching the battle, giving out small commands of advice that are crucial to the battle. After sustaining several words due to the duo taking his advice on such, the bacus becomes quite angered by the annoyance of the old man, taking the sword that was on his side and throwing it at Arikel as hard as he could. The old man went to dodge but he was to slow, instead of it piercing his heart it drove into his shoulder piercing out the back of his body imbedding it to the hilt. Arikel screamed in pain and dropped to the ground holding the hilt of the sword as he sobbed in agony.

[tursi]

Xanthia: arikel! (to cador) keep him going.

cador: eight.

Xanthia ran over to arikel and slowly pulled out the sword.

Xanthia: hold on, ok.

arikel nodded and xanthia took the sword and went back into battle. She smiled at cador and gave him the sword.

Xanthia: have fun.

She moved behind the bacus and picked up on of hte weapons she had left on the ground.

[BlackHeart]

OOC: Okay comrades, I was given the okay for DEATH!!! WOOOOT!
--------------------------------------------------

Cador tightened his grip around the sword. For some reason it felt natural in his hands. He raised the blade and waited for the Bacus to make his next move. The Bacus narrowed his eyes at Cador growling and snarling at his defiance. He was slightly aware of Xanthia but his focus was on Cador. Cador smiled

Cador: c'mon ugly?come and get me

The Bacus snarled again and charged. Cador began parrying to the best of his ability, as he did Xanthia crept behind him dagger in hand ready to strike. As Cador was fighting his footing betrayed him. Flailing his arms has he fell backwards the Bacus brought his claws into Cador's stomach. Then raised him into the air and flung him into a tree. The pain was bare able for some reason. Cador layed on the ground, hurt but not crippled. Catching his breath.

Bacus: *humph*?that takes care of you?
The Bacus approached smileing, thoughts of disembowelment in his mind. Cador Slowly got up and faces the Bacus.

Bacus: WHAT?!?! YOUR SPINE SHOULD HAVE BEEN SNAPPED IN TWO!!!

Cador: I guess you just through me wrong.

Xanthia was almost upon the Bacus when he charged again. Cador braced himself against the tree and raised his sword. The Bacus was moving to fast. He impaled himself on the sword and screams. The Bacus grabs Cador and begins to tare into him. Seeing her chance Xanthia leaps onto the Bacuss' back and plunges the knife into the base it it's neck. Screaming a final time the Bacus goes limp. Cador's badly wounded but okay.

Cador: ::Pushing the body away:: Thanks Xanthia?he didn't even see it coming

Xanthia: ::Kicking the body:: sure Cador?I wouldn't have been to take him alone?

Arikel: Splendid! ::slowly standing:: For a while there I wasn't sure if we would make it

Cador: Are you alright? That wound looks pretty bad.

Arikel: Oh?I'll be alright. These old bones have seen a lot

[Carren Heart]

[I]As the dusk of the long battle settled and the three mortals stand victorious realizing they have done what only a handful of mortals could even imagine. Three of them managed to defeat a Bacus, only three! Wow they thought to themselves. Xanthia and Cador looked down at themselves momentarily.[/I]

" This is impossible right?"

" The angle must have done this!"

[I]They both almost simultaneously look over at the halfway-encased angel; they see Arikel looking the being over as he looks back at him moving his eyes wherever Arikel goes.[/I]

Arikel: << Looking over at the others >> I do believe he is angelic! Unreal an angel still among us, which would explain the demons searching the area.

[I]The old man looked back at the angel thinking to him about what those runic encryption may be.[/I]

Arikel: O.. I see these runes make it very difficult to focus one's powers even painful to some degree. We should free him quickly, come youngins help an old man.


[I]The other two walked over to the wise aged man and begun to help releasing the chains freeing the angelic being it began clear that it may take a little while before they would be able to free him, maybe over night.[/I]

[I]Angelic Being: << Looking tied >> thank you all very much?? [/I]

[I]The old man nods, Xanthia looks up at him a moment smiling, and Cador pats the being on the shoulder as the angel's eyes slowly close [/I]

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Meanwhile a Mortal Oracle is questioned ???

Nag'a Leader: Great oracle, tell me of the caravan lost by my demon brethren.

Oracle: << the oracle's eye's glow faintly white >> The Caravan is no more great Nag'a!

Nag'a Leader: What happened to it!?

Oracle: Brave mortal warriors attacked the caravan and overwhelmed it protectors, all but one is now dead.

Nag'a Leader: The survivor is it Demon or Man!

Oracle: It was demon grand Nag'a.

Nag'a Leader: Was? What do you mean?

Oracle: The Demon trusted to protect the case that imprisons what you seek as fallen to three mortal being, an old man, a young woman, and an adult male. They grow in power already surpassing their pervious states.

Nag'a Leader: what do you mean?

Oracle: They have been granted extraordinary abilities by the one you seek.

Nag'a Leader: And what is to come of this???

Oracle: << Smiles >> the mortals will be your end.

Nag'a Leader: << Laughs >> you jest! One mortal in ages has taken on a Nag'a, let alone a Nag'a Commander! Your visions must be false!

Oracle: << Still smiling >> they will become close to this being you seek in time and he will become close to them as well. These mortals are born under a sign and their purpose is greater then any mortals to this day and with the angel's help they'll be the end to your plague on our world.

[I]With a swift act of anger the Nag'a impales the young Oracle and rises her off the ground, the Nag'a leaves with a slight menacing grin on his scaled face.[/I]

[Heartless Me]

Arikel looked among them all and smiled slightly, He was still holding the wound in his arm. Though it was still there and all the way through, he was no longer bleeding nearly as badly.

Arikel: So what do we do now?

Angel: Now...? We rest. Your battle was long and rough and we all need to save our strength.

Cador: Yeah.... but it's going to take more than a night to heal our wounds.

Xanthia: Yes, The old man's wound would take a month or more by itself to heal right.

Angel: Don't worry about your wounds, I shall see to them in the morning.

Arikel: Yes, I assumed as much. When I was a child, I have heard of many an angel very knowledgable in healing powers.

Angel nodded slightly and then went to curl up and rest, using his wings as a pillow and a blanket and the rest of the group also gathered and layed out to rest for the night.

[Carren Heart]

One big problem Arikel,the angel has already fallen asleep.

[Carren Heart]

[I]As the night passes the three brave mortals take turns working on the chains and locks freeing the angel little by little. Until at the mornings light Cador unlinks the finial chain, he grabs the angel's body before it falls to the ground.[/I]

Cador: Xanthia Wake up, he's free!

[I]Xanthia lay sleep rolling turn seems to be her only response. But the old man wakes in he place.[/I]

Arikel: << Rubbing his eyes >> keep it out youngin she'll awake a little later.

Cador: Sorry, but look he's free!

[I]Arikel slowly stands up his frail body aching as he stood; he walked over to Cador and the Angel.[/I]

Arikel: Yep! That is an angel no mistaking it.

Cador: What do we do with him now?

[I]The angel's body moves slight as it opened its eyes.[/I]

Angel: Nothing anymore, kind sirs I will now fend for myself. You need not worry any longer. << Stands >> I'll be fine and you may keep the gifts I've given you.

Cador: The demons will continue to hunt you sir.

Angel: Correct, they'll never stop until I've been killed.

Arikel: so why go on your own?

Angel: you've already done so much; I'll ask no more of you.

[I]The two watch as the angel starts walking away calmly [/I] ??????

[Heartless Me]

Cador was about to speak up when Arikels voice broke in.

Arikel: Don't leave quite yet.

Angel: Why? If I stay here, you will be in futher danger.

Cador: But you are in greater danger. Once they find out what's happened here, they will send an army after you.... You can't stop that by yourself even if you are an angel!

Cadors worried words had inadvertantly awoken Xanthia and she looked at them with sleepy eyes.

Xanthia: What's going on?

Arikel: We freed the angel and he leaves.

Xanthia: What?! You can't do that! We have so many questions!

Arikel: She is right, You are the first angel to be seen by humans in fifty years. What happened to the rest of them? How did you survive? and Why must you leave? The truth cannot be simply that we helped you....

The angel paused and sighed turning around.

Angel: You may not like the answers.

Cador: We understand that but if we weren't prepared for it then would not have asked.

[tursi]

Xanthia noticed that she had been staring at him the whole time, and moved her gaze to something else. then she straightened up, it was no time to feel like this.

Xanthia: yes we do have many questions, but if we don't move soon, they army will be on our tails.

Cador: and how would you know this.

Xanthia: while resting i encountered a disturbing dream....(her eyes start to sadden)

Angel: xanthia...what happened.

Xanthia: they aren't far behind, a day or two...

Arikel: but something else happened.

Xanthia: they went to a cave, smelling smoke...and...they found her.

Arikel: her? who is she talking about.

Cador: xan, was it tina?

Xanthia's eyes filled with rage, and she looked behind her.

Xanthia: forget it, but we must move, and we aren't going to get far walking.

arikel: what other way is there.

Xanthia: riding, i'll be right back, cador come with me.

Cador nodded as the rushed into the forest, xanthia grabbed her stallion, and cador grabbed the mare.

Xanthia: lets go.

cador: right.

they rode out of the forest and troted up to the others.

Xanthia: get on, we only have two, but we'll find more later.

the angel looked sckeptical, put procceded onto xanthias horse, and arikel got on cadors.

Cador: alright angel, lead the way.

[Carren Heart]

[I]The angel looked confused for only a moment then points northeast down the trail to the town of Oth'ia. Xanthia and Cador knew this town well it was almost a legend to them, the nation of Warriors where they train the Demon-Blooded (already explained this). It seemed crazy to them why Oth'ia there were sure to be capture there.[/I]

Cador: We can't go to Oth'ia! They catch us there!

Arikel: << Looking over Cador's shoulder >> maybe not Cador, haven't you heard of the rebellion. The angel may have a good idea; the rebellion I've heard is starting to pop-up around that region.

[I]Cador and Xanthia nodded with the information given.[/I]

Angel: << Eyes closed for a moment, then he speaks to Xanthia >> someone calls your name, don't you hear it?

Xanthia: << Looks over at him >> that's no time for that now we must ride! << Kicks the side of the horse >>

[I]The four companions ride like the wind for many hours until the fortress walls of Oth'ia are seen in the horizon. Cador and Arikel stop behind Xanthia and the angel calling to them, Xanthia skillfully turns the steed to them and rides back.[/I]

Cador: Angel? You should hide your wings.

[I]The angel looks down at himself still nude and wings covering over him. A faintly gray light envelops his body as his wings fade like a memory and clothing appears covering his body. He smiles,[/I]

Angel: is this good?

Cador: Yes very.

Arikel: it would seem in your rush we, never asked for your name dear sir.

Angel: << Looks confused >> Name?

Arikel: yes, of course your name, what do people call you? Your << Thinks back to the chaos war >> Title?

Angel: O, that it's Orin.

Xanthia: Hello Orin I'm Xanthia, this is Arikel, and that's Cador.

Orin: << Smiles >> I know!

Arikel: << Confused look >> Really, you knew your names? Did you heard them from the battle?

Orin: No, I've always known them.

Cador: How's that?

Orin: I'm try to explain later, for now we should go to town.

Arikel: Agreed, Xanthia you and Orin stay in the woods for a while. Cador and I will search for my contact here and a place to stay okay.

Xanthia: no problem!

[I]Xanthia and Orin wake as the other two race off into town searching for they contact. Orin looks around then dismounts, walking over to a tree stump he sits.[/I]

[tursi]

Xanthia feels somewhat uncomfortable around orin. so she goes and lays on her back, in a tree to keep her mind at bay. She starts to hum a song. she smiles and starts to sing quietly. the song was a lallaby she used to sing to tina when she got sad, it told a story of unicorns a dragons and how together they made the night stars. when she stoped she turned to look orin, its seems that he had fallen asleep again. feeling better she jumped down from the tree and let the young stallion graze.

Xanthia: (to the stallion) i'm sorry i took you away from you home, but i promise to make it up.

The stallion shook his head and snorted.

Xanthia: yeah, it's to late now. (she pauses.) what do you think orin wa talking about back there? someone was calling my name?

The stallion shook his head and nudged her.

Xanthia: you didn't hear anything?

Xanthia sighs. The stallion pushes her to get her attention.

Xanthia: no....i'm no sad, i just think that orin is one of the most beautiful things i have ever seen. (the horse snrots) next to you of corse. here.

She hands the stallion an apple, and goes and lays on the ground.

Xanthia: i hope the others will be ok.

[BlackHeart]

Cador and Arikel had reached the city. After being questioned by the guards the were allowed to enter. The sun was hanging high, and Demons weren't very prominent, those roaming the streets were on patrol, harassing the humans as they did. Always casting their gaze towards Cador and Arikel as the two walked by. Cador shuddered as they passed the cities square. A large pile of dead bodies and a Demon preaching about the rebellion being futile was not a pretty site. The blood stuck to their boots as they hurried past.

Cador: So where are supposed to meet this friend of yours Arikel?

Arikel: Not too much farther. We gotta get to the tunnels first

Cador: Tunnels? You mean like underground?

Arikel: Of course! Where else would they be!

Cador: I dunno?

Arikel: Look around you Cador, do you see any beggars or homeless?

Cador: ::Looking around:: Surprisingly no

Arikel: The slums of the city are underground. That's where they put the scum of society and those who come up short. It's also the best place to hide during trouble.

Cador: I see. But if that's where they put all the trouble makers, why don't the Demons patrol it more?

Arikel: Because they are too worried training their Demon Blooded abominations

They turned into an alleyway and Arikel began moving some boards and trash. With Cadors newfound strength the job was easy. When the last piece was moved it reviled a small tunnel with dirt steps.

Cador: Easiest way?

Arikel: No, they have an official entrance but it's got guards?we'll look too suspicious not being demons and all.

The two proceed down the dark tunnel and began the trek to this underground city.

[Carren Heart]

Back at Lith'is ?

[I]The new Demonic headquarters go quite as two Bacus troopers enter the marble halls of the oracle's forsaken temple. [/I]

Bacus Troop: Commander! Sir!

Nag'a Commander: Yes go on.

Bacus Troop: We have found the caravan and the case, but?

[I]The Nag'a commander's eyes flared with hatred as he waited for the demons obvious response.[/I]

Bacus Troop: The weapon has vanished sir!

Nag'a Commander: You have about three seconds to give me good news!

Bacus Troop: << Scared Looking >> we believe tracks from horse lead northeast of their sir!

[I]The Nag'a Commander smiles wickedly as he slithers to the back of the temple where the young oracle's body still lies. [/I]

Nag'a Commander: Excellent! We will inform the demon blood of a new rebel force.

Bacus Troop: Sir! What do we do with the child found in the caves?

Nag'a Commander: I feel she may be the key to capturing the weapon, send here to me! You don't need to know anything other then << Grins >> she'll be our bait!

Bacus Troop: what until then? Sir!

Nag'a Commander: take the children from the town, then kill the adults and burn the village! Afterward take rise the dead on poles as a warning of what treason may bring.
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Back with Orin and Xanthia ?


[I]Orin rolls back and froth speaking an odd language while he rests, Xanthia hearing this simply looks over toward him confused. Her instincts told her it was a nightmare of some sort, the angel seemed restless but asleep at the same time as if holding the very armies of hell from them. He rolls again and again the dream becoming more intense. Xanthia walks over to him shaking his shoulder trying to awaken him from the nightmare. But nothing seems to work she becomes panicked a little shaking him more violently. Until it all stops the rolling the weird language everything all at once had stopped even her shaking. She looked at him for a moment as he opened his eyes ever so slowly, she backed away again feeling uncomfortable around him. She stood and walked over next the horse and sat down petting the horse's chin while she did.[/I]

Orin: << stretches a little and looks over at her >> what is that?

Xanthia: What? The horse << Looking at him oddly >>

Orin: yep! What is it? Besides a horse?

Xanthia: well it's an animal.

Orin: << Looks slightly confuse >> like a dog?

Xanthia: << Grins slightly >> something like that, but smarter and not as smelly and commonly used as a rider animal.

Orin: << Nods >> okay I think I get it.

[I]Xanthia sits quietly for a while longer before stands up and brushing the horse main with a horse comb she had in the her backpack while Orin watches. This continues for ten minutes before Orin specks up.[/I]

Orin: Who's Tina?

[I]Xanthia pauses for a moment and looks over at him.[/I]

Xanthia: What? How do you know her name?

Orin: you told me.

[I]Xanthia pauses thinking for a moment.[/I]

Xanthia: No, I didn't tell you about her.

Orin: your worried, you said so.

Xanthia: I haven't said anything.

[I]Orin looks into her eyes from where he is.[/I]

Orin: sometimes you don't have to move your mouth to speak.

[I]Xanthia looked back into Orin eyes, then looking away says.[/I]

Xanthia: You reading my thoughts or something! Quit!

Orin: I'm not reading your thoughts, those are your. But if one listens hard enough they can hear your heart.

Xanthia: you can hear my heart? That's non-sense.

Orin: << Looks sadden >> you don't have to believe. But just because you don't know how doesn't mean I can't.

Xanthia: then how do you?

Orin: I care enough to listen.

[I]Xanthia stares amazed at the response, saying something like that is so rare these days. [/I]

Xanthia: how could you care that much you just met me?

Orin: << Smiles >> doesn't mean I can't care. You cared enough about me to search out the caravan and save me.

Xanthia: ???

Orin: its okay if you don't want to talk about Tina, but please tell me who she is?

Xanthia: my sister.

Orin: O, ?? that family right?

Xanthia: yes it is, she the only family I have.

[I]Orin stands suddenly looking to the southwest.[/I]

Orin: << looking sad >> No! ? ?

Xanthia: what is it!?

[I]Orin just stood looking toward Lith'is with a sad look of mourning. Focusing on the horrible screams only he has able to hear, people being killed and begging for their lives families that would never see each other ever again. Orin just stood their looking now into the skies wishing them finial rest but knowing few would have it. Orin fell to his knee feeling their emotional pain, tears form around his eyes. [/I]

Orin: I'm sorry << Said it despairing tone >>

[tursi]

Xanthia walked towards him and sat next to him.

Xanthia: you ok?

Orin: i'm sorry.

Xanthia looked at him worried, and placed her arm around him.

Xanthia: what are you sorry about?

orin: (shakes his head) it's nothing.

Xanthia: if you're sure.

She stands up and looks around the spot where they had settled down. She smiled and started to walk off.

orin: where are you going?

Xanthia: to explore, i wanna get to know this place in case we run into trouble.

orin: why?

Xanthia: i dunno, i guess i makes me feel more confident....you wanna come? i have a felling that theres a pond near by where we can wash up a bit. i know i have to clean some of my wounds.

orin: ok i guess.

She started to walk further into the forest.

orin: shouldn't we take the horse.

Xanthia: it's ok to leave him here. he's wild, if anything happens he'll run.

orin: ok.

They walked into the forest and around some old trees. it was an old forest, the oldest xanthia's seen for a while. she walked further and just like she said, there was a small pond.

Xanthia: these forest are so pradictable.

She went over and rolled up her sleeves and started to wash them in the water. orin sat near the water and soaked his feet.

[Carren Heart]

[I]Orin sat splashing the water with his feet trying to relax and temporally forget the horrible screams heard early. He looked toward the woods to see a figure looking back.[/I]

Orin: who's that << Looks over at Xanthia then points toward the figure >>

Xanthia: << Looks >> who?

[I]When Orin looked over to the woods where he'd seen the figure, it was gone.[/I]

Orin: I thought there has someone there?

Xanthia: well maybe you were just seeing things.

[I]From the nearby woods a voice emits softly.[/I]

Voice: Or we can just conceal your selves well.

[I]Xanthia and Orin stand rather suddenly looking around trying to discover where this voice is coming from. Out of the forest about a dozen ragged persons walk out holding crossbows and sword.[/I]

Bandit Leader: your money or your life.

Orin: << Looking at Xanthia >> Money? Or life, that's kind of dumb!

[I]Xanthia smirks at the comment? ?[/I]

[tursi]

Xanthia: money or life...hmmm. let me think...neither since i'm a theif as well. but it seems you don't reconize me, my friends. (gives a short bow)

Bandit leader: and whom are you?

Xanthia: xan of the wild horses.

Badit leader: prove it.

Xanthia smiles and lets out a seires of whistles and her stallion comes running towards her. She smiles and gives it an embrace. she whispers into the horses ear and the horse turns and stomps towards the badit leader. the followers ready their weapons.

Xanthia: put those down, he's not going to hurt him.

The horse rears up and then bows. The bandit smiles.

Bandit leader: so indeed you are her. we've heard about you from the other forest bandits. you are good with your gift, for your age.

orin: xanthia, who are these people.

Xanthia: these are the lead group of forest bandits, they don't even trust their own kind. now all of you, out.(to bandits.) we have no money, i haven't been into town yet to get any.

Bandit leader: right, if you do, you must split the loot, your in our territory now.

Xanthia: deal.

The bandits leave. She sighs and goes back to washing up.

Orin: are you sure that was a good idea.

Xanthia: you can never be sure of anything around here. but when my parents were around they were famous for their art of stealing. they died when i was young, they were cought doing a big stunt.

Orin: oh i see.

Xanthia had to smile, he somethimes looked like a kid just exploreing the world. She got up and brushed her self down.

Xanthia: lets go back to camp.

Orin: ok.

SHe got up on her horse and orin got up behind her, and the rode back to camp.

[Carren Heart]

Meanwhile back at the ruins of Lith'is?

[I]Rising from the ashes monstrously misshapen bodies emerge moaning with their now eternal agony. Filing in rows of thirteen by eleven the bodies form a line, saluting to the Nag'a Commander that destroyed them.[/I]

Nag'a Troop: Commander Yenit wishes to speak with you sir.

Nag'a Commander: Bring him to my.

[I]The Nag'a Trooper slithers away rushing to Commander Yenit soon after which he returns with Yenit.[/I]

Nag'a Commander: You wished to speak with me, commander Yenit.

Commander Yenit: Yes in deed I do, our lord has informed me that the weapon we seek is in fact part angel.

Nag'a Commander: How very odd? An angel? But only part? He will be dealt with.

Commander Yenit: Sir, that's not all!

Nag'a Commander: Go on then.

Commander Yenit: He is also part Demon.

Nag'a Commander: Very odd, a human that is part angel and demon. Not unheard of thou.

Commander Yenit: No sir, you don't understand there is no human blood in him!

Nag'a Commander: Wait! Your telling me he is half Angel and half Demon!

Commander Yenit: correct sir.

Nag'a Commander: How are his parents!?

Commander Yenit: That another thing! His parents are Tyrial and Soulceri!

Nag'a Commander: << Eyes widen >> Tyrial! He is no Demon! That is a Devil!

Commander Yenit: Devils are but a myth sir.

Nag'a Commander: No, they are real! as a low ranking officer you are not permitted information about them, but with this we need to act fast.

Commander Yenit: Surly being part Devil can't be that powerful.

Nag'a Commander: if Tyrial wasn't his father perhaps not but the union of an Arc angel and a Devil Lord is unheard of!

Commander Yenit: How powerful? Sir!

Nag'a Commander: To powerful for my liking. But perhaps we can use this to our advantage, Part Devil he is bond to feel the darkness within him we'll just awaken it.

[I]The Commander goes silent thinking of what power he could extract from much a being.[/I]

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back at Camp ?

Orin: When do you think the others will return?

Xanthia: I don't know, it may take them a day or two we'll just wait.

[I]The two sat they for a while with no real conversation until again Orin spoke up.[/I]

Orin: Why did you and the others actually help me Xanthia?

? ? ? ? ? ?

[BlackHeart]

Inside the tunnels Cador and Arikel moved slowly in the darkness. A few torches lined the walls every few yards. Arikel snatched one down and led the way. As they made progress the sounds of voices steadily became louder and louder. The torches were no longer spaced so far apart. Cador could see that the walls were carved out of solid stone, probably for a sewer. They could see the end of the tunnel now. A brightly light opening, and people everywhere. As they passed through Cador was astonished, the tunnel opened up to a massive cavern. He saw tents and huts set up here and there. Carts and merchants selling god knows what. People arguing, people sleeping on the ground, people all over the place.

Cador: This is amazing

Arikel: Welcome to the slums?

Cador: Where is this friend of yours anyway?

Arikel: Not too much further boy.

A short walk brought them to a large open tent. With boxes and junk littering the floor.

Arikel: Hey anybody home?
A man seemed to rise from the trash itself. Covered in dirt and trash the man smiled and shook Arikels hand.

Man: It's been a while Arikel, you've stayed away too long

Arikel: I know old friend but?I have little time for reminiscing though

Man: Eh? You in some sorta trouble Arikel? His eyes drifted toward Cador

Arikel: In a manner of speaking yes. I need to ask you about the rebels in the area and where we can find them.

Cador: Or the elder of Lith'is?

Man: Your playin with fire Arikel. The demons have been on their tale for sometime now.

Arikel: Please?It's very important?

Man: The attacked a caravan of demons about a day ago. I dunno why or for what but after that they headed north. I haven't heard anything about The elder boy?sorry

Arikel: How far north?

Man: Don't worry about finding them?they'll find you, trust me on that.
Arikel: I thank you friend

Cador: I as well

With that the two departed and headed down the tunnels to their original entrance.

[Heartless Me]

Arikel looked back at the slums and sighed. He didn't know how or why but he had a feelign that would be the last time he saw his friend again. With a saddened face he walked on not saying much until they were close to the surface when from around a corner there came a very frightening sound, almost like a slither. Arikel had put the torch he carried back earlier and Cador and Arikel dove into a small alcove in the side of the cave.

Arikel: Shhhhhhhhhhh.

He said quietly and they tried their hardest to remain motionless and quiet as two snakelike demons slithered past them down towards the slums. A single tear went down his cheek as he held his breathe waiting for them to turn around the corner they came from. A moment later they both moved, walking quickly for the exit.

Cador: ((almost frantically whispering)) what were those?!

Arikel: Nag'a soldiers, four of them have been known to take out small human armies.

Cador: That's incredible.

Arikel: It's horrible.

Cador: ((nodding as they exit the cave)) Yes, well their time is coming along with the rest of the demons.

Arikel: We must be quiet now leaving town.

And that they were, quieter than the most stealthy church mouse. They walked through and out of town almost inconspicuously and unnoticed except for the dog that he had led with him, after all he was "blind". Why hurt his chances for free meals and put a perfectly good seeing eye dog out of a job? As they walked towards where Orin and Xanthia were they finally relaxed and were able to talk as normal.

Arikel: Orin may or may not be happy that the rebellion has went north.

Cador: I know, there are alot of monsters along the path.

Arikel: Yes. Let's hope we will all be alright.

[tursi]

Xanthia: (thinks for a moment.) i don't know about the others, but i helped because you asked me to....and because i was drawn to you for some reason. why do you ask?

orin: (shrugs)no reason really.

Xanthia: oh... are you hungrey?

orin: huh?

Xanthia: i can make something for when the others get back.

Orin: sounds good.

Xanthia: do you eat meat? because i've heard that angels aren'tt alound to eat meat, sometimes they don't eat anything at all, but that was from a tale i heard a long time ago. plus you look real skinny.

Orin pondered on this for a moment.

Orin: yes i think i will.

Xanthia: if you don't we have some fruit to in the bag. (she paused) i'll be back soon, watch the horse.

Xanthia grabed her dagger and walked into the forest. She scouted around for ten minutes or so and got tree rabbits. [I] that should be good for now. [/I] She took them back to camp and laid them out to be skinned.

Xanthia:(to orin) don't worry, i took some of the older rabbits, their lives were soon to be done in by a wolf or something.

orin: right.

Xanthia skinned the rabbits and placed them on some sticks to slowly cook over a small fire. she smiled as the warmth of the fire brushed against her face. Then she got up and sat next to orin.

Xanthia: they should be back soon, it's getting dark.

[Carren Heart]

Xanthia: Why not? ? or don?t you trust me?

Orin: I trust you, After all you and the others saved me.

Xanthia: << Looking over at him >> Alright, if you don?t want to that?s okay.

[I]Xanthia and Orin both pause for a moment.[/I]

Xanthia: Orin?

Orin: Yes.

Xanthia: are you really in angel?

Orin: I have the wings, and the demons are trying to hunt me down.

Xanthia: I guess your right ? sorry.

Orin: its okay.