RPG The Power of Runes... [M-LVS]

[Raze_3103]

Kanya grimaced,"I hate trolls. They stink and are pretty ugly." In a bright flash, her wolf had vanished, and her dragon stood where the wolf once was.

"Drago, take out at least one of them, ok?" The dragon let out a roar that almost seemed to shake the ground, then flew twards one of the trolls. It met it head on, grabbing the trolls weapon and other hand with his own two short limbs.

"That dragon, how strong is it?" Nana asked, leaning twards Kanya.

"Lets just say, if Drago gets hit, the troll will feel more pain than he will." She smiled as she rushed twards the troll with wind like speed. "Now you little bastart, lets get this over with." She dropped to the ground right before the troll's wolf, and cut its feet out from under it, sending the creature to the ground in pain, and the troll to be hung by Kanya's dragon, who was lifting the troll to where they both met eye to eye.

[Dragons_Bait15]

Ash watches the commotion from the roof of a three-story building shaking her head in disbelief. [I] What where trolls doing in this city? [/I] Thorkell takes out most of the trolls with the assistance of Nana. From her height she sees more on their way and starts digging through her bag, "Now the time to test those new components." Missing most of the fight while trying to fit together several parts she sees the Nørdwolves Then Drago looms above Kanya and Ash stops stunned, [I] this might get interesting. Why magic? [/I]

Several more Trolls advance, Drago and Kanya taking out one, Thorkell charging another. Ash takes her cue from Kanya and aims for the wolves. The crosshair on the head she fires and falls flat on her back, getting back up she sees the wolf limping a charred line on the backside of its front left leg. Aiming again she sees Tarma and another Mahrim take on the handicapped troll. [I] Kicks good, powers not, and it takes a while to recharge [/I], she pulls off the long barrel and aims again bracing for the kick. Down below Thorkell beheads the Troll he was fighting and rushes another.

She watches him while trying to keep an eye on everyone's backs, push comes to shove she would have to use one of the others. Kanya and Drago already have one down and Thorkell working on his second yells something incoherent at his opponent, who yells back. Her attention is drawn to where Tyr and Sazurothz stand a rider less wolf attacking them from behind. They both turn in time to see a bright red beam hit the wolf in side, the wolf leaps at them Tyr throws a black fire at the wolf. It goes up in fire quickly, Ash shivers at the sight and waits for the recharge.

A Troll tumbles to the ground nearly knocking into Tarma and Jar, Jar turns on it without hesitation but Tarma sees the wolf it was riding a large but shallow hole in the side on its head. She looks around at the surrounding buildings and sees Ash waving her hat in the air in a salute. Pulling the cap down low on her head Ash aims for the wolves.

[Linkk]

Tarma jumps out of the way. Ash fires and just as the wolve almost catches Tarma's leg, crashes to the ground. Blood pouring everywhere even spraying onto her clothes and fur. Tarma looks up and smiles her thanks to Ash.

Jar, was beating the hell out of the troll. It was still trying to kill him. Tarma came and they both threw their weapons. Tarma's sais hitting the troll in one of the eyes, While, Jar's dagger hit the jugular sending the troll to the ground. He shrieked clutching his throat.

Thornkell came over and with one swoop of his axe, the ugly beats' head rolled off.

Silence, as they all looked around seeing the blood filled street, troll and wolve carcasses' littered the the Inn's entrance. The whole area red, ugly and with a vile smell.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]Oh my GOD! What are they doing here-[/COLOR] Tarma asked as she ran towards Jarrius, his arms open in embrace. He kissed her and held her close.

" They know. Ovouisly someone told them. But who, how....." EsKari mummble. Pacing back and forth.

" Well, Tarma..EsKari?" Dred inquired

Eskari looked at Tarma. He looked back most likely they were thinking the same thing.

" Tarma" Jar said. " What's going on?" They clutched eachothers' paws. Jar, still making it evident to Eskari [I]And anyone else for that matter[/I], that he wasn't letting anyone or anything take Tarma away from him again.

Eskari and Tarma started to explain how and why they'd be sent to Balthasar.

" Do you think maybe someone with in our organization...." Eskari gulped." Tipped them off?"

[COLOR=SandyBrown]Spies, spying on the spies. Possibily. But who? It's not like everyone knows everyone either. [/COLOR] Tarma began chewing her claws. A bad habit, many times when she was nervous, scared, or confussed she'd always done this.
Jar, pulled her paw away from the mouth.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]Perhapse, this city isn't the where the runes are hidden. Maybe, we were all tricked-[/COLOR] Tarma said. Her heart was racing. It wasn't all bad though. She found Jarrius. As well as her contact.

" Look here" Ash said stepping up. " We need to get away from here"

" Leave the city you mean but...." Nana started.

They all weren't sure. What if this was a plan. To drive them away not just from the city but from eachother. It'd be easier to get rid of them if they were all seperated.
None of them said anything. They just stared. What should they do. Fisrt of all they needed to get away from this Inn. Get to another part of town. They made quite a ruckuss.

" Hey, what in bloody hell is going on out there" The Inn keeper hollered as he ran outside.His jaw fell as he saw the bloody scene.

" My apologies" Tyr began. " We had some unwelcome company." He threw some money. As did a few of the others.

" Get away. You're in danger" The Inn keeper gasped." We're all in danger"
He turned and went back inside.

He's rightwe need to get away from here first off." Sazuroth commanded

[COLOR=SandyBrown]WAIT! I need to know, before....before....-[/COLOR] Tarma didn't know what was going to happene. [COLOR=SandyBrown]I need to meet Felas[/COLOR] She turned to Nana.

" Oh another reunion. Listen kitty cat, we can't keep visiting you're relatives and friends....."

"Dred." Jar growled. " Tarma, is it?" He asked looking at her wide eyed.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]No. I don't know. It can't be.-[/COLOR] [I]Felas was dead. Or was she[/I]


" Well are we all going or wha?t" Eskari inquired
Jar scowled at Eskari. [I]Why do you need to be here. Bet you tipped the trolls off. Whatever. You can't ever have Tarma. She loves me![/I] He smiled to himself.
"Well I don't know. Jar pipped up. " But I'm going wherever Tarms goes"

Tarma smiled at him. [I]Same here[/I]

So...........

[Random]

Jar and Tarma walked hand-in-hand down the road, followed by Tyr, Dred, and all the others. [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Tarma, could it really be Felas? I thought you were the only one of your family that escaped."[/COLOR]

"So did I," replied Tarma, confusion etching her voice. "Felas, as well as mom and dad, were all taken, and I thought that they were all killed. I was lucky to have escaped, but Felas would have been even luckier."

"You do know that it might not be your sister, Tarma," Dred said, being blunt as usual. "I'm sure that there many other Mahrim named Felas, and even more that are Brindle colored."

"It doesn't matter," Tarma said defiantly. "Either way, I have to find out. Even if it is just to ease my mind. [I]And let me accept my family's death.[/I] If this Felas really is my sister...I just need to know." The ever-growing group had finally reached the shop. "Listen, everyone. I'm going in with Nana, but the rest of you, please say here."

Jar's face was almost pitiful when he said, [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Tarma, I'm going with you, too."[/COLOR]

"No, Jar. I appreciate it, but this is something I need to do, alone."

"Well, then, why am I going with you?" asked Nana, confused at the new developement between the two Mahrim.

"I need you there because you know Felas, and you can explain things if she's not my sister."

Jar, reluctantly, stayed outside with the others, staring at the stars, as Tarma and Nana walked throught the door. [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"So. Tyr, Sazuroth, mind explaining some things? I'm confused. Okay, well, I know about the ruins, but what are you two planning on doing with them, and why did you two join forces?"[/COLOR]

"Jar, if you don't know by now, then don't worry about it," said Tyr. "Just stay out of the way, follow our lead, and fight if necessary. Stick by Tarma, she knows what we're doing, ok?"

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"That doesn't answer my questions," [/COLOR] Jar said, still confused. [I]The only reason I'm even involved with these guys is because of Tarma. And that stupid fish. Still, it'll be worth it, as long as Tarma and I live through this...[/I]
Jar decided to walk over to the Velati named Kanya. As he approached her, the wolf that seemed to always be with her walked over, almost asking to be petted. He did, and Drogo warmed up to him immediatly.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Kanya, right?" [/COLOR] he asked. [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"The name's Jarrius. Nice wolf you have here."[/COLOR]

"Thanks," she replied. "His name's Drogo."

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Hi, Drogo."[/COLOR] Addressing Kanya, Jar said, [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Well, what's a Velati doing with a rag-tag team like ours?"[/COLOR]

[Stark]

One event lead to another, and Nana found herself leading a person who was a complete stranger to her employer. She huffed, made a noncommital noise, and reluctantly led Tarma in to see Felas.

"Hey!" Nana called, her voice a sing-song chirp, "I have a visitor for you..."

Tarma gave her a quizzical look, and Nana only giggled in responce.

"Yeah, yeah." Felas murmured as she pushed open the door to her backroom. "Of course you do, becuase you are the most ssocial wallflower I know..." She looked up and froze as her eyes locked with Tarma. "Who the--"

"I told you I brought you a visitor." Nana said, tipping her hat up so she could get a better view. There was a delighted shriek from Felas, one that was echoed by Tarma, and the two Mahrim rushed toward each other in their elation.

Nana smiled at the two, quietly glad that they were happy. They really did look like sisters, in more than just the fur tone. It was something about the way they moved, a little lopsided quirk to their smiles, a kink toward the ends of their tails...

She turned around and left the shop, wanting to leave the two alone as they caught up. Beside, there was other business to attend to, most importantly business about a Slake and Wilder that was of her immediate concern.

[Linkk]

This was too good to be true. She found her sister and the love of her life all in one day after years of thinking she was alone.

" Tarma! Holy girl look at you! You're...you're...ALIVE!" Felas shouted with delight.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]As are you! I though you were dead! I've been looking forever.-[/COLOR] Tears fell down her eyes. This was too much but it was good.

Felas had tears streaming down her eyes as well. Her little sister alive.

Tarma qiuckly told Felas about her life the past four years and how'd she come to be in this city.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]And I found Jarrius! Remember him...oh Felas we're.....[/COLOR] She was cut off by her sister's look of worry.

" You know, I'm so happy. But I can't believe you've gotten wrapped up in what Daddy was involved in. They're dead. Mom and Dad" She gulped. " At least I believe so. After I escaped as well, I looked for awhile. Tarma, they even got to Uncle Sabble and Aunt Bella....."

[COLOR=SandyBrown]Felas, I do what I do to help others. The agent who trained me he...he helped me. I'd be dead if it weren't for what I do.The corrupt governmebt needs to be stopped.The runes must be taken out of the wrong hands.-[/COLOR]

Felas, could see how strong yet weak her sister was. She was pround.
" You need to settle down,stay here with me.....

[COLOR=SandyBrown]After my mission and we suceede I will come back. Hey, Felas come with us...we need all the help-[/COLOR] She wirled around and looked at the group conversing outside. Should she perhapse stop and stay here. [I]I can't back out now. Besides I'm going wherever Jarrius goes. I can't stay anyhow. They'd find me and kill me. [/I]

Felas caught Jar's eye. He waved at her smiling. She waved back. She knew how mush Tarma was in love with him.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]I'm going to finish this. I need to go with them. I know things. Felas,I know you know things are bad. Please understand-[/COLOR] She felt so small, but, after all this group here they had a real chance.

The commotion outside got louder.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]Come Felas, lets go listen. [/COLOR]

The two Mahrim joined the others. Tarma stood next to Jar with Felas on her other side.

As Nana dealt with buisness with a Slake and Wilder. The grouped watched and listened intensly for more information about there linked conquest.

[Raze_3103]

Kanya sighed and smiled at Jar,"Ya know, I have been asking myself the same thing over and over agian. I do not have an answer yet, don't know when I will get one." She looked up at her dragon as it vanished.

"Where did he go?" Jar asked, looking around a little bit.

"Right here." She held up her sword. "These two spirits are special. If both of them are out, then I have no weapon. See, Drog has the power over wind and speed, while Drago has the power over power and ice. If Drog is the sword, then Drago is out in the open and my speed increases, and I get a small power over wind. And vise versa. ITs a little complicated, but if you do it enough, then it is like a second breath of air, it just happens." She smiled then looked at the rest of the crowd.

"Yeah, I agree, it is complicated. Sorry I asked." He petted Drog on the head agian, as he wimpered. "So, why did you help out agianst the trolls?" He turned to her, a little more seriousness on his face.

"For the most part, I hate trolls. I hate most creatures with alot of anger. makes me feel sick. Thats why I stick around these two, they are very gentle." She smiled and began to listen to the rest of the group.

[Dragons_Bait15]

Ash watches everyone from her seat in the shadows, she cleans her gun silently, a nice family reunion was a good thing but it was too sappy for her tastes. A Slake that wasn?t part of Sazuroth?s little army leans agents Fela?s building near the door, he watches Tarma?s cling on as he socializes. Sazuroth?s small band is gathered on one side of the street. Leviiril sits on the steps of a building not far from them. Jar and Kanya where talking and Tarma and Nana was with Dred, Tyr and Sazuroth. The large Thuma slides down the wall nearly sitting on her, ?Careful there.?

He looks at her a bit surprised but mostly annoyed, ?Is this city the breeding grounds for lizards??

?Lizards?? she glances sideways at him and reaches for her bag,? More then probably, but I wouldn?t know. I?m more snake then lizard.?

?Lizards are better then snakes, I think.? He says neutrally, ?Snakes are more likely to stab you in the back.?

?Never knew a Thuma to think.? Giving up the search she picks the big gun back up, ?Drink yes, but think no.?

He watches her shaking his head , ?What are you going to do with that??

?Stab some one in the back.? Aiming it at Sazuroth she braces against the kick and smiles, ?Ambassador, tell us what you?re thinking of doing. ? The Thuma looks at the gun and smirks, he knew so much of those guns to know it wouldn?t work. The Slake was bluffing. Sazuroth?s band came to attention quickly reading their own weapons as Tarma and Felas emerge from the shop.

?Ambassador?? she inquires he wasn?t so discomforting [I]if[/I] you got used to the calm look he tend to wear.

[Deadpool]

Sazuroth smiled. He made his hand flinch as Ashcraft fired her gun only to have the bullet bounce off of his armor. He smiled as it left a glowing spot that faded. "After killing me, what is it you plan on doing next."

Tyr looked at his armor with suspicion. "What exactly is that made of?"

"Technolyte stones. I get them whenever I want. It is the other stones that I have to steal in order to get. This armor is made of the stones and makes a laser covering. Protects my body"

The Viking smiled as he hefted his axe. "Except your head"

"Which is why i have this" He held up a helmet. "Now I now you are after the stones of power and I can get you an axe that would break even this" He cracked his neck. "Now can we get to busnisess before someone else tries to kill me"

[0ber0n the Neko]

Tyr looked silently at the armor-clad Sazurothz. "You're a fool."

Sazurothz sneered at Tyr. "What's that!?"

Tyr looked him in the eye. "Now no-one can touch you. You're nigh invincible. The one problem is..." Tyr held out a hand that was engulfed in blackened flame, "What happens when you [i]want[/i] someone to touch you? When you're done playing god, the price is disastrous." Tyr recalled the fire."Remember that."

Sazurothz looked at him with a nervous smile. "Look at the newfound philosopher!"

As Sazurothz watched, Tyr bared his right arm. On his upper arm glowed a dark and sinister looking tatoo, easily recognized as a rune. "This is the price I paid. Now no-one may ever touch me."

Sazurothz looked wide-eyed at the tatoo. "So, that's how he does it..." he muttered.

Tyr looked up at the roof, and saw the dark figure of a huge thuma. He looked harder, and saw a slake, crouched in the shadows above. "Slake, your presence seems to herald many unwanted guests..." he smiled, grimly. "The curse of the rune has only begun."

All watched as the two shadowy figures atop the roof began to flee, the slake carrying a large rifle.

As Sazurothz shot a defiant glare at the duo in flight, Tyr laid a hand on his shoulerpad. It began to fizzle, melting into it the shape of Tyr's hand. "The fires have already begun to consume you. You can escape, but you must do it soon. The runes are not so kind to those who wait."

Tyr walked towards the inn. He drew his hood over his head, and pulled the sleeve back over his right arm. He spat. "Just once, I wish someone could touch me..."

[Random]

Jar stood with Tarma, Felas by her side, watching the two acknolodged leaders talking. He was more than confused by their dialogue, but he seemed to be the only one, judging by the looks on everyone else's faces. After the bullet had hit Suzaroth's armor, Tyr had talked about the "price of the runes," or something like that. Jar had no idea what he was talking about. Just as Jar went to ask Tarma if she could explain, Tyr walked away, and mumbled something under his breath that Jar couldn't make out. Dred followed Tyr, as did Eskari. Jar decided to follow them, so, holding Tarma's paw, he did. They ended up back at the Inn, the bloody mess of the battle still in front of it.

"Tarma, tell me what you know," Jar almost demanded. "I'm so lost, I don't even think I know my own name anymore."

"Jar, it's ok," she replied, sympathy in her voice. "You don't know anything about the Runes, and you wouldn't have to if we hadn't reunited earlier. Basically, Runes are stones with varied powers inside of them, and to many, they are a physical manifistation of power and status. The more you have, the "better" you are, at least in the eyes of the rich and powerful. In the years since they've been found, and the uses of them discovered, the Government has used them in their favor, and they have greatly missused the powers the Runes possess. Our organization, the Revolutionaries, have placed factions in each city in order to make an attempt to overthrough the Government, or at least to screw around with their plannes. That's basically what I was going to do, but it looks like I got a few more hands to help."

"I think I'm starting to understand," said Jar. "But still, what was that all about with Tyr?"

"Jarrius, you must ask the man himself," she replied.

"Thanks, Tarma," Jarrius said as he, Tarma, and Felas walked into their room. All three were curious to find out about the others' traveles and happenings over the last few years. A little while later, Eskari, one again, asked the three to join the others in the adjoining room. He was a little bit more cautious this time, but Jar cooperated, and they all followed him into Tyr's room.

[Deadpool]

Sazuroth smiled as he got the armor off of him. Without the government mages to get it off he was stuck in this suit forever, but that was one of the reasons he sent out to find Tyr and his famous dark flame power. He had hoped that he could break it were as beams, lasers and technology couldn't. "Now I can but on a removable set of armor." He dropped the runestone helmet to the ground. Someone else could have it, he had no use for it now even though it might have beena good thing to sell. "Go back to the resistance and offer your assitence there." He watched his men leave as he got him self a new set of armor made like his runestone one, but this was removable and people could touch him. Now the only problem was that he owed Tyr a favor. Sazuroth entered the bar and bowed before Tyr. "My lord, you have saved me from the curse and to that I am in your debt and service. Your wish is my command..."

[0ber0n the Neko]

Tyr took off his cloak and shirt, and sat on his bed, troubled deeply. [i]They take this power so lightly... All save for the viking have no understanding whatsoever...[/i]

He heard a knock at the door. He shot a glance to it, drawing a shashka as he did so. He approached the door slowly, attempting to hear talk outside. He heard none. He reached for the handle with one hand, the other holding the shashka to the door.

Tyr cracked the door open to see Jar, Felas, Tarma, and Eskari waiting expectantly outside. He sheathed the shashka.

"What is it?" Tyr asked fiercely.

"Can we come in?" Jar asked.

Tyr surveyed them once more. He unbolted the door, and opened it. "In," he said.

The four stood in varying places in the room. Eskari took the far wall, while the three mahrim sat before him on the other bed.

"You're here to ask me something." Tyr's voice held no questioning tone.

The mahrim sat silently, while Eskari gazed idly toward the female.

Eskari straightened up. "We're here about what you said earlier."

"About the runes?"

The mahrim trio nodded nervously.

Tyr sat on his bed. He faced the group with resign. "You follow me, yet you know not what the runes are?"

The group stayed silent. There was an air of tension that encircled every one of them, save for Tyr.

"The runes..." Tyr began, "were created back when the world was young. The Gods made them. Surely, you know that much. The reason, however, was simple. The Gods lived in a utopia. Their heavenly realm was desirous above all things earthly. They created the world, each sealing an aspect of themself into it. The more power they gave, the more jealous they became. They knew that their conflict would end in war, so they sealed their very essence into runestones, far below the surface of the earth. This is all elementary. The stones themselves, however, are not always as kind and gentle as we view them. In the hands of mortals, the power of the gods was immeasurably useful... as well as dangerously powerful. As power breeds lust for power, mortals sought out these stones, bending them to their will." Tyr stopped. He winced in pain. "Mortals then created the Vanguards."

Tarma looked at him quizically. "The Vanguards? What are they?"

"We... The Vanguards were humans infused with the power of runestones. They were essential tools of the government, especially in the sense of war. They no longer needed to call upon runestones to perform incredible feats."

Tyr froze, looking up at Kanya, who was standing in the doorway. "Can I help you?"

Kanya shook her head. "I'm listening."

Tyr shut his mouth, and flared his nostrils. "Everyone, I think it's time for you to leave."

The four moaned, but still made their way towards the exit. Kanya remained.

Tyr stared up at her briefly. "Come in. Shut the door behind you."

Kanya sat, smiling at Tyr. "So you're the leader now, huh?"

Tyr shot her a dark glare. "I did not hear of an election, velati. This is not my choice."

Kanya's smile began to fade. "Please, Tyr. Call me Kanya."

Tyr's silence was a clear indicator of his annoyance. "So, you're not here for tea and biscuits, then."

Kanya smiled again. "Of course not. I'm fascinated by your story of the Vanguards..."

Tyr slammed his fist on the bedside table, leaving a blackened indent. "It is [i]not[/i] a story." He lifted his hand, stroking his tatoo. "You know it to be so."

Kanya stood, lifting her delicate hand towards Tyr's tatoo. She touched it, and recoiled instantly, her fingers singed. She put them in her mouth, trying to cool them. "So you [i]are[/i] a Vanguard..."

Tyr shuddered. He tensed. "All I bring is pain to this world. None can ever touch me. I am invincible, like our slake friend... but the difference is..." Tyr gestured to his tatoo "I can't take [i]my[/i] armor off."

Kanya stood silently, gazing over Tyr's bare-chested body. He was scarred and bruised all over, but his muscles were hard and defined.

"See, this is the curse of the runes... This adhesive armor that never comes off. The runes were created for battle... So, it's quite fitting, really."

Kanya looked into Tyr's eyes for a long time, then looked away. She started for the door, when Tyr called after her.

"Why do you seek the runes?"

"I don't seek the runes, I seek the truth."

Tyr nodded silently, and Kanya opened the door. As she left, Sazurothz entered, clad in a different armor, still easily identified as runestone.

"Aren't I popular today..." Tyr mumbled grimly.

Sazurothz bowed. "My lord, you have saved me from the curse and to that I am in your debt and service. Your wish is my command..."

Tyr stood. "You need not thank me. Your life is your own. If you wish to devote it to serving me, I cannot stop you."

Sazurothz left, with a final bow as he tarried in the doorway.

Tyr sat expectantly, knowing that someone would surely come for him, but they didn't. He almost wished he could see Kanya again... but he laughed and shook his head, recalling her having singed her fingers trying to touch him. Tyr locked and bolted the door, and went to sleep.

[Raze_3103]

Kanya leaned agianst the wall, outside Tyr's room. Something strange about him seemed to deam unreliable. "What do you want lizard?" She said, looking up at Sazurothz as he came out of Tyr's room.

"Nothing to do with your, little one. But tell me, how bad does it burn? The pain that you have from touching him?" A wicked smile crossed his face.

"You realize that if you say any more, you will give me the chance to kill you." She smiled as Sazurothz's fadded.

"Why do you-"He stopped as he felt the warm air of something breathing on his neck. "your dragon. Of course. If you wish to play like that, then farewell. I will not push my luck. Just remember, you may need my help in the future." He gave her a small bow and left her.

As he left, her dragon layed down next to her and nuzzled agianst her." Hey, boy. Never would have thought it hurt that bad. It is no normal burn, but a magic burn." She set her hand on the dragons head, the icy feeling of the fur cooking her hand.

"Drago, we have to stay now. We have to find a way to get that rune off of his arm. That shall be our goal ok? Yours, Drog's, and mine." The dragon let out a small purr as her wolf walked out of the shaddows.

"Then its settled. Lets go to sleep." She put a hand on the two demons and stood up. She walked outside and tried to make her way around the rest of the group without being see.

[Linkk]

Tarma, Jar, Eskari and Felas made their way into the other room.

" Tarma" Jar said holding her. " What's going to happene? What are we doing?"

[COLOR=SandyBrown]I'm affaird I do not know-[/COLOR] A sad , troubled and concered look on her face. She lay her head on Jar's shoulder and closed her eyes.

" Well, I guess we best all rest while there's still some night left. In the morning we'll all beable to think clearer" Eskari said as he left the room to go sleep by the door. He didn't want to get Jar or Tarma upset with him. Not that Tarma really was.

" I'll be back in the morning. I guess to see you off. I don't think I'll be going with you" Feals said" Good night" She opened the door and went to find Nana.

[I]Finally we're alone[/I] Jar though as he and Tarma cuddled and started to fall asleep.

" Hey, is it true about the Vanguards? Maybe Dred knows something too" Jar asked sleepishly.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]I have a feeling Tyr, will tell us when he's ready. We can ask again later. I know that the runes are powerful. But they are as dangerous as they are good. As the vile hands who have them have shown us. No matter what happens Jarrius, I don't want us to be separated. I suppose we will want to start looking for the runes. Will you come with me? I know you still are unsure of everything. It'll all be expailned soon. As I too am unsure of things-[/COLOR] She started to purr. For once she felt safe.

Jarrius began to purr as well.

[0ber0n the Neko]

The morning came quickly, but without the tension of impending battle that had seemed to riddle Tyr's recent days.

Tyr awoke, fingering his tatoo. He looked about the room, which was empty. He lifted the sheets from his body, sliding out of bed and into his clothes. He looked to a desert cowl that hung on a coat rack nearby. He donned it, walking out into the hallway, where the others had begun milling about already.

Jar looked groggily toward Tyr. "Hey, you're the leader, ain'tcha? Aren't you supposed to get up first? Y'know, boost morale or sumthin'?"

Tyr smiled. "But if I awake first, will I not also retire first?"

Jar only looked at him complacently, and then trudged mumbling down the hall.

Tyr walked down the hall towards the viking's room, which he shared with Dreg.

OOC: Sorry that it's so brief... just trying to set the stage!

[Dragons_Bait15]

Ash sits cross-legged on the ground across form the inn waiting for them all to walk out. Her pack lies beside her and a sword rests across her legs and her eyes closed, a child silently walks up to her grinning. She opens one eye and smiles big, ?Thad.?

Thad grabs her bag, ?What happened to your hand?? he nods to her bandaged covered left hand then his smile widens, ?What did you make this time??

Ash winks and pulls out a black snake from her pack, ?Presto, it?ll scare the pants off anybody.? She hands the snake to him and ruffles his hair, ?Go scare you?re big brother.?

Looking at the inn she sees the others walk out and waves at Thad, ?Take care of Thak.?

As Sazurothz comes out she throws an arm over his shoulder and ignores the other?s confused looks, ?Where we going Ambassador??

Sazurothz tenses, ?Ashcraft please get off me.? He shrugs her arm off and shakes his head, ?This is Ashcraft,and I had asked her to help me before but...who was that kid you where talking to??

Try glances at Ash, ?Are you going to kill him? ? he shakes his head.

?The Ambassador? No why would I want to do that?? Ash waves at Tarma and Leviiril, ?Hey, Brindle, Leviiril.?

The Mahrim beside Tarma looks at Tarma questionably but she just shakes her head and smiles.

She then throws an arm around Eskari, ?I don?t believe I?ve had the pleasure of meeting you,? she offers her hand, ?Ash.?

He shakes her hand shyly, ?Scary.?

Without letting him go she looks around smiling, ?When are we going??

Try shakes his head and turns heading off the street, Sazurothz sends her a scathing look and she winks. Leviiril smiles at Ash?s antics and pulls her off Eskari. ?Don?t make a scene, just try not to do anything stupid.? Ash nods silent for the moment.

[Linkk]

[I]What's that all about[/I] Tarma looked around at everyone. Was she the only one not sure of what was happening.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]Jar, did you see that?[/COLOR] She asked in a whisper

" Yes, strange" He said as his eyes darted around the group as well.

They all followed Try and Dred as they walked along the street. Still partly littered with the previous nights battle.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]I can't make head nor tails of this. I....[/COLOR]

" Shhhh. It's lizrad breath." Jar could see Eskari making his way towards Tarma and himself. He pulled her closer.

She didn't mind. Besides she really only trusted Jarrius.

" Tarma. Hey wait up" Eskari called to them. " Other than Jar. Had you ever seen any of these characters before? I mean were there discriptions in your mission handout. I mean I think there's more here. But I can't put my foot on it.

" Ya well put your foot on this" Jarruis snickred.

" Look, I'm not trying to steal her. Alright. No one is." Esckari sternly said back.

[I]Oh sure. Like I said before I don't trust you-[/I] Jar though as they gave eachother an evil look.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]NO. I mean where suppose to stay in the city right? Yet last night at the tavern Tyr and Dred were talking about the hunt. I assume for the runes.-[/COLOR]

" Well then I guess we'd better just go along and see what happens?" Jar suggested.

Tarma, Jar and Eskari made there way up to where Tyr and Dred were. She reached out her paw to stop Tyr from walking....

[0ber0n the Neko]

Tyr and his entourage stopped, looking at Tarma's paw. He said nothing.

"Where are we going?" Jar asked.

"To Tanis. There is a rune located near there. Balthasar has been emptied of runes for a long time, but Tanis still has a few, for those willing to pay the right price..." Tyr replied.

"I thought we were supposed to stay in the city..." Tarma said, cautiously.

"Who told you that?" Tyr asked, shooting her a sharp glance.

Dred stepped forward uneasily. "I didn't think they'd follow us, Tyr..."

"We need their skills, Dred. We won't be dealing with ordinary government thugs this time." Tyr brushed Tarma aside. "You may come. Pray that you're ready."

Thorkell lumbered to Tyr's side, and looked about to speak.

Tyr looked at him. "You want to ask me something?"

The viking nodded. "You are so familiar with the runes... how is that?"

Tyr sighed. "We'll discuss that another time, viking. The walls have ears in this city. One's secrets cannot be spilt so sparingly."

Thorkell nodded. He stayed silent for a while, then said, "I want to be more involved, you know? I feel like an outsider, even among all you misfits!" He laughed jovially, smacking Tyr on the back. The blow knocked Tyr several feet forward.

Thorkell laughed once more. Tyr straightened himself up, patting the dust from his clothes. "I appreciate your... enthusiasm... viking. However, in my band, respect is earned, not given."

Thorkell hefted his axe. "Then I shall prove myself in battle! For the glory of ODIN!"

Tyr smiled, this time with material amusement. "I hope you will."

[Random]

Jarrius walked hand in hand with Tarma, following behind Tyr, Dred and Thorkell. Beside them was Eskari, and Kanya, along with Drog. The others within their rag-tag group Jar really didn't know all that much about. Hell, he didn't really know all that much about anyone, except Tarma. And Ryu.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"I wonder where Ryu is right now?"[/COLOR] he thought out loud.

"What's that?" asked Tarma, although she heard perfectly.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Huh...oh, nothing. Nevermind,"[/COLOR] Jar replied. The group was finally reaching the city gates. Tyr and Dred were talking hastily together, with Thorkell listening in. Turning to Eskari and Kanya, [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"So, either of you two been to Tanis?"[/COLOR]

Eskari just glared, but Kanya smiled and replied, "Actually, I have. It was the city that I just came from."

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"That's a bit of a coincidence. I just came from Tanis, too,"[/COLOR] said Jar. [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"It's hard to believe that only just a few days ago, Tanis is where we could have met, instead of Balthasar."[/COLOR]

"Yes, it is wierd. But, as the winds of fate continually blow, Balthasar was the place fordestened to be the place that we were all to meet," Kanya answered, smiling sagely. "Now, we can only wait and see where the fatal winds take us now."

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"You're quite the interesting one, Kanya," [/COLOR] said Jar, just as they group walked out of the city. The most surprising thing was that the large group wasn't stopped from exiting the city, as Jar pointed out to his three companions. The reason was obvious as soon as they reached outside the walls.

[COLOR=DarkRed]OOC: Well, guys, gotta get things heated up here! I've left it open, so, let's some spice here! Anyways, sorry for not posting very often. I've started working graveyards, and it's hard to keep up. Well, have fun![/COLOR]

[Linkk]

As they emerged from the city they discovered the guards and army protecting it had all been killed! Boold and armour scattered everywhere.

"Must have been those trolls" Thornkell said. Lifting up scadered pices of weapons with his foot to see if there was anything useful amognst the garabage.

" It's going to be dangerous out there. Anyone want to turn back now it the time.Otherwise you're in it,turning back later might not be an opition" Tyr said looking at the group he and Dred had only just met a few hours ago.

They all studied one another waiting to see if anyone would turn away. They all took out their weapons as a sign that they were ready.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]We need to find out who sent those trolls and how they knew any of us would be there. As it seems we were all set up here[/COLOR] She looked at Jar and then Eskari.

" Well then it's settled. We're going." Sazuroth made ready to leave. He waved them to follow. " Oh. But of course after you Tyr"

Tyr showed a crocked smile. [I]Hope I'm doing the right thing[/I] He though as Dred and he lead the way.

" Tarma, why didn't Felas come?" Jar inquired.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]She thinks it's too dangerous. Mind you it is. I hope I'll see her again,soon-[/COLOR] Tarma cast her eyes to the ground.

" It's alright Tarms. I'm here. We'll take care of eachother as always. We'll all pull through this" Jar said sounding optimistic. But even he was woriied.

Tarma looked at him and smiled. [COLOR=SandyBrown]I'm so glad you're here[/COLOR]

Ash and Leviiril brough up the rear. Almost laging behind. They both kept watchful eyes.

" Hey" Eskari shouted. " Exactly how are you sure there are runes left in Tanis. We were told......"

" You Skale were misinformed I believe." Ash answered.

Eskari looked behind at her then back to Tyr.

" We also though there were runes here. But Tyr and I have been searching. We've didn't find anything. Someone else has already gotten to them" Dred replied.

[COLOR=SandyBrown]The trolls were meant to stop us. They figured we'd realize that. How long do you think before word reaches that they've been killed? If not that until whoever sent them sees they aren't coming back[/COLOR]

" Well Kitty Cat. You guess is as good as mine. We need to get as far away from here as we can before night fall. At times we will travel by night. Now if you'd be so kind" Tyr said looking at Tarma and Eskari. " Who sent you here?"

[Random]

"Tarma, say nothing," said Eskari, a look of seriousness on his face.

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Tyr, you don't need to know that,"[/COLOR] said Jarrius. His abrupt words, as well as his commanding tone, seemed to shock Tyr, as he didn't say another word. [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"It's okay, Tarma,"[/COLOR] he wispered, making sure that only she could hear. [COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"I'll protect you."[/COLOR]

"Thanks, Jar," she said. Her voice held confusion, but she trusted him. She trusted him with her whole heart. "I believe in you."

They reached the woods. Although it was late morning, and the sun was high and bright, the woods looked forboding, and Jar couldn't help but feel something wrong about them.

"Tyr, this isn't..." started Dred, but then he saw the look in Tyr's eye, and stopped.

"Ok, everyone. We're going to split up," announced Tyr. "Suzaroth will lead one group, and I'll lead the other...what is it, Kanya?"

"Do you really think it's a good idea to split up?" she asked, her smile slacking a little.

"Yes, I do. This way, at least half of us will be guaranteed to make it to Tanis. It'll even our odds a little," he replied, noticing how the Velati's body swayed as she listened. "You may decide who you want to go with, but if uneven, I'll decide 'till it's balanced."

"I'm going with whoever Jar is going with," said Tarma.

"Well," said Eskari. "I'll go with Suzaroth."

[COLOR=DarkSlateBlue]"Then I'm going with Tyr,"[/COLOR] said Jar defiantly, shooting another glare in Eskari's direction.

"So, what about the rest of you?" asked Suzaroth.

[0ber0n the Neko]

OOC: Splitting up... Okay, that may not have been on the original agenda, but I deem it a worthwhile twist. Good job, Random.

And another sidenote, Leiivirill has left us! This post moved so quickly that we accidentally left her behind! She humbly requested not to be involved in the post any longer... she will be missed.

IC:

Tyr stared Jar down, his gaze seeming to pierce flesh and bone. His answer was too quick, too raw to be knowledgable.

He turned to Sazurothz, who beamed at the chance to lead. He gathered all the slake over to his side, obviously content with his ranks.

Tyr was too curious to relax his suspicions, but kept them to himself. In the meantime, he would gather the rest to his party. The slake could make it quite easily on their own, having been well adapted to the forest. It was the non-human that would make the ultimate difference, here in the vast forest of Tanis.

Tyr looked to Kanya. [i]Of all of us, she will have the most difficulty making it through... Velati aren't quite accostomed to the wild.[/i]

"Dreg!" Tyr called.

Dreg looked at him, sharply. "Yes?"

"Go with Sazurothz. You know why."

Dreg's smile receded. "So, he really is..."

Tyr's silence was enough. Dreg ran to Sazurothz's side.

Thorkell looked sadly at Tyr. "Will there be no slaughter in this wood?"

"Listen, Thorkell..." Tyr responded.

The viking tilted his head up to listen. His expression was blank, but slowly formed a cruel smile. "So, there will be bloodshed."

Tyr nodded, turning to the forest. "Are we all ready?"

OOC:

TEAMS SO FAR!

TYR'S TEAM:

Tyr
Jar
Tarma
Thorkell

SAZUROTHZ'S TEAM:

Sazurothz
Eskari
Ash
Dreg

UNDECIDED:

Kanya

[Dragons_Bait15]

Ash looks at the two teams a bit confused but keeps her feet planted a few feet behind Sazurothz. They would be here for days if everybody didn't decide where their loyalties lie. Looking back at the forest she smiles, it fades when she hears Dreg's footsteps joining Sazurothz's party. Picking at the bandage around her hand she looks quickly at Kanya.

Catching her eye Ash states, "The woods are a bad place for some," her gaze turns to Dreg," but the people you travel with can be worse.? Dreg glare at Ash in warning.

Kanya looks at her like she?s crazy and Ash sighs,? Go with Tyr, three Slake minds are better then any amount of runes."

Looking at the two groups, Sazurothz waiting for her decision and Tyr making his way to the edge of the forest, Kanya waves and hurries to join Tyr. Ash looks at Sazurothz expectantly and shrugs.

?We might want to get to that place before them.? An impish gleam brightens her eye and she smiles looking at the ground, ?I know my mind is sound enough but I don?t think either of you tow?s is.? Growling Sazurothz pushes past her followed by Dreg and Eskari. Ash falls in line behind them watching the forest approach.

[Random]

OOC: Okay, everyone, I need to say something. Orcus PMed me, and said that some of you were getting aggitated with my posts...and for that I apologize.

IC:

Jarrius watched the other "team," if that's what you would call them, walk into the forest. The three Slake seemed a little smug, but with Dred there, they should behave theirselves. He glanced over at Orcus, waiting his direction.

"Let's go," Tyr said, leading the way into the woods.

Jar walked beside Tarma, lost in thought. [I]Tyr seemed really pissed with me when I told him off. I don't care. I do respect him, but no one, NO ONE, talks to Tarma like that. I'll protect you, not matter what, no matter who, with - my - life[/I], he thought, glancing sideways at her. Suddenly, the air around him seemed to grow colder, and he grabbed absently toward his daggers. They had entered the woods, and they looked even more hostile now that they were inside. Jar noted where everyone was standing. Tyr and the viking, leading the way, were walking silently, while Tarma and Kanya were wispering together just infront of him.

After a little while, maybe an hour or so, the group of five decided to rest and have some food. They started a fire, and were just about to eat when Tyr suddenly stood erect, looking this way and that into the dark woods surrounding them.

"What's the matter?" inquired Tarma, voicing everyone else's thoughts.

"Quite," he said in a faint wisper. "Something's out there."

Jarrius looked into the woods. He [I]did[/I] sence something was wrong. An erie feeling, chilling him. The birds were silent, and even the wind seemed to be stilled. He could feel a presence just beyond vision, watching them...