NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: Please do not participate unless you are directly invited by me to do so. Thanks.

IC:
A bright blue light shimmers briefly in the air, hovering near the entrance of the building, before slipping through the cracks in the door and into the halls of the structure. It seems to know where it is going as it glides silently yet undetected down the hall. It turns around a corner and ascends the stairs. At the top of the landing, it filters through the doorway, still undetected…

There she lay.

The orb hovers closer, carefully as it approaches the sleeping form. Suddenly, the woman sat up, and immediately cast its eyes unto the orb.

“Who are you?” she asks guardedly.

“You know who I am. I need your help…” came the ethereal whisper.

“First, identify yourself!” she demanded, a blaze within her eyes, daring the visitor to anger her.

“You know who I am.” it repeated, before suddenly extending a tentacle of light toward the woman and causing her to close her eyes as it entered her mind, searching…

Searching for the memories of the past…

Suddenly the woman gasped as she opened her eyes, “It cannot be!”

“It is…” the orb replied, before continuing, “Now, my time has come to join the mortal world. I need your help…”

“I’m listening…”

“I have a quest that has been bestowed upon me by the Great Elders…”

And so, for the next hour, the orb spoke of the quest, and of the complex plan that would achieve it’s end…
____________________

The orb hung suspended in air by the doorway, before entering silently. It passed through the living room headed to the bedroom. Inside lay the dark haired brunette, whose breath was soft and controlled. The woman turned her head sideways, still very much asleep, muttering to herself incoherently. The orb floated closer and entered the woman’s nostrils, and into her brain, seeking her unconscious mind…

“Hello sister…”

Within the confines of the woman’s mind, she turned silently, a glare in her eyes, but suddenly gasped as she saw who it was, or more likely, what it was that spoke to her.

“Brother?” she asked, puzzlingly.

“Yes…”

“Impossible! You are deceiving me!” she hissed as she drew a diamond edged katana from its hilt and brandished it toward the shadowy figure that stood before her.

“Let me show you the truth, my sister! It has been far too long since we have seen each other, since our younger years when we often went into the fields and played together!”

The woman lowered her sword, still defiantly standing, but beginning to allow the figure to continue.

The scenery around them changed suddenly, casting the dream world into a brief darkness before a single light, bright as the sun shone…

Wait…it was the sun, shining down upon the fields, upon the wheat stalks that rippled softly in the breeze…

It was a scene the woman knew all too well…only slightly different, but the same nonetheless…

“And now you know…” the shadowy figure said quietly, before removing his hood and turning his gaze unto the woman.

The woman stepped back in shock at the face illuminated by the bright sunlight.

Her sword dropped silently from her hand…

________________________

Within the green trees of Valinor, the orb flew gaily by, without a care in the world. It passed through the trees, weaving in and out of each branch, a soft humming emitting and ringing quietly through the air.

It passed into the clearing and flew intricate patterns in the sky, a slight laughter floating through the air.

It soon rested itself upon a branch in the tree that sat isolated in the middle of the clearing, a magnificent oak tree, strong and steady as it sat rooted deep within the earth. The tree seemed to be alive as it shivered slightly with the soft contact of the orb unto its branch.

Soon, she will come…

Sure enough, within an hour’s time, a solitary figure swooped through the trees and immediately found the orb on the tree branch. She touched down upon the ground and her wings billowed out in a final stretch before disappearing into her backside once again. She smiled slightly as she acknowledged the faceless orb’s presence.

“It is time.” she says softly as she beckons for the orb to approach.

“Mae govannen Sigrun!”

“Arleni, mae govannen, mellon!” came the quiet reply. The male’s dark eyes turned to look sideways at the trees, seeking the boughs for his elf-friend that was hidden in the trees. He had known that Arleni would be nearby, standing sentinel over the western borders of Lorien. None could pass within these borders without the Lorien elves knowledge. None could escape the Forest if they so desired…

A rope ladder fell quietly down in front of him, and he ascended. At the top of the ladder was a talan, a platform that was quite hidden within the golden leaves of Winter. The Lorien Forest was a peculiar forest, enchanted in eternity, living off the good will and hearts of the elves that dwelled within. Atop the talan sat Arleni, who sat there quietly, yet smiling broadly.

“It is about time you have returned my friend! Sit and tell me of your travels!” she spoke at long last, after allowing Sigrun to seat himself.

“Arleni, you know that my travels cannot be spoken of so close to the borders. It will be best if I tell you another time.” replied Sigrun as he cast his eyes out past the tree branches and toward the setting sun. “It has been a long time my friend, since I have lain sight upon these leaves and trees of fair Lorien!”

“Long indeed, mellon.”

“Tell me, have you tidings of news from some of our cousins from afar?” Sigrun asked quietly, still admiring the sunset.

“Yes, the last of the elves of Mirkwood are in their final departure from Middle-Earth, all are heading back across the Sea. They wish to no longer partake in the flawed threads of this land. All except for Elrond, who has decided to return and live here among us for the coming years. Perhaps this is good, perhaps not. Like us, you know they have stood and watched as the world fell into shadows of darkness several times, shadows that still exist in the minority, in Mordor. Even when the halfling, Frodo Baggins, destroyed the Great Ring once and for all, there still exists the darkness that has been in the world since the beginning of time. And this time, that darkness grows and festers while all attempts to stop it fail. Even fair Galadriel could not have forseen this…”

“That is true. What of that strange cousin one have you heard about, the vampire?”

Arleni sighed, and smiled sadly. “He has passed on. The Darkness has killed him…”

Sigrun lowered his head and whispered in Elvish a prayer of good passing. “He was a good one. I only regret knowing him briefly in my time…”

Arleni nodded in understanding, a strange smile upon her face, “You couldn’t have done anything to change the path of his life. He chose it of his own free will, and defended all that was good to the core of his being. Do not blame yourself for his departure from this world.”

Sigrun looked up at Arleni and smiled. Suddenly he laughed, a soft laughter that echoed slightly in the trees, seeming to make each leaf dance in response.

“I should go to the Lady Galadriel and speak to her.”

“Yes, even she expects you to do so.”

Sigrun looked up quickly, burrowing his eyebrow, “Oh?”

“Yes, come, let us go together, for she wishes to speak to both of us.” she continued as she stood up and picked up her pack and weaponry. Sigrun stood moments later, casting a final glance outward to the last of the setting sun.

“It has been a long time…” he muttered quietly to himself, admiring the beauty of the sunlight, “a long time indeed.”

______________________________

“Sigrun, mae govannen i Lorien!” came the soft voice that floated down the spiral stairway that circled the great tree. Moments later the ethereal beauty of the Lady of the Wood, Galadriel, approached from the treetops, enshrouded within the beautiful elven-clothes crafted by her own skillful hand.

“My Lady,” Sigrun replied, bowing deeply in respect, “such is an honor to lay eyes upon the fairest elf in Middle Earth!”

Galadriel smiled softly and beckoned, “Bow no more to me, Sigrun, for you have returned and are well! I know of your battles that you have partaken in far off lands. You have my reverence for your truth to Elven-folk!”

Sigrun gasped slightly, but managed to stammer out, “Thank you, my Lady.”

“I trust you are comfortable with the arrangements?”

“I am. I am most grateful for your assistance.”

“Have you spoken to your sister? She has solemnly waited for your return; I have never seen one so sullen for another’s vacancy.”

“I have, though I do not think it may have been good to upset her so, for she believed me to have died in the last Age.”

Galadriel nodded in understanding, “Yet, I’m sure she knew that Elves don’t die, even when their lives are snuffed in the evening dusk.”

“Yes, and that they merely take on a supernatural form. It is a well-known lore of Elves. But if I may ask; forgive my haste; what of Arleni?”

“Yes, Arleni…” Galadriel spoke, glancing over at Arleni, whom had remained aside respectfully but now had stepped forward at the mention of her name, “She is here to assist you in whatever means you deem necessary. You are to take upon the quest that the Wise Elders have bestowed upon you. Your quest is an important one, Sigrun, take to it with the greatest care! You have the blessing of the Elders, as well as mine.”

“It would please me beyond the stars to stand beside Sigrun on this quest, my lady.” Arleni replied with a straight yet proud posture that showed her confidence in her abilities and in the world around them.

“As it should. You shall be a companion to Sigrun as he takes on this quest, a most remarkable quest. Only once before have I seen such a request bestowed upon an individual, but that does not matter now. What matters are the present…and the future.” Galadriel spoke, closing her eyes at the last, remembering…

Oh how it was a curse to be an Elf and remember all that had come to pass, and yet still have to see all that will be!

Galadriel opened her eyes once again, a strange light within them. “You may take rest tonight here, but you must start on your journey tomorrow at dawn. I expect your presence for the feast tonight.”

“We shall be there, my lady.” Sigrun replied.

Arleni and Sigrun bowed once again, respectfully departing from the presence of Galadriel, whom in turn, once again ascended the stairway, the stairs first steps guarded by a pair of male elves, both hidden in the trees, but their attention never withdrawing from the steps. None would pass onto them without their knowledge. None would be foolish enough to bypass their security, as well as their magic that lay thickly in the air, permeating everything, protecting all of Lorien…

Minutes later, Sigrun stood beside Arleni, this time, in another area of the Elf-wood not far from the Great Tree. Arleni let out a bird cry, to which a ladder descended from the trees, and the two ascended upwards into the protection of the trees.

Once at the top, Arleni nodded appreciatively to the Elf who had thrown the ladder, before she turned back to Sigrun with a serious look in her eyes, “This quest will be dangerous Sigrun. Are you sure you are up for it? After all, you only returned a few days ago…”

“I am sure. I must do this. Fate has led this into my hands. Therefore, my quest must be completed, lest Fate doom us all.” replied Sigrun.

Sigrun sat down upon the talan and rolled out his bed, lying down and turning his gaze upwards to the skies. “Did you know that in Valinor, the stars are much closer, much more beautiful than in this dark land?” he asked with a wondering voice.

“No…but it seems wonderful. I can only look forward to the day I may see this for my own.” Arleni replied, lying down upon her own bed and turning her gaze toward the stars once again. Moments later a hand touched upon Sigrun’s arm, causing him to look sideways at his friend. “Sigrun, do you still remember the years we spent together, learning the way of the Elf-warrior, all those years ago? Do you remember what I told you then?”

Sigrun lay silently for a few moments while gazing at the stars. “Yes…you said ‘One day, we shall embark on a quest that shall truly test our very essence!’”

Arleni smiled broadly, “Exactly what I had in mind, my friend. And I believe that this quest will be that one…”

Sigrun turned toward her, “You may be right…or it may yet come to pass. Nevertheless, come! Let us enjoy the splendor of our home! Let us enjoy the Life that flows all around!”

Arleni nodded and turned silent once again. A few hours passed, and Sigrun was beginning to drift to sleep, when suddenly, a glorious song of beauty floated through the trees, this time a song of a half-Elf warrior of long ago, whom championed as a leader among many kinds of the Earth, and led them toward peace…through war.

Arleni smiled as she recognized the tale sung. She whispered quietly, “Dear Maximus…indeed he was a great warrior…”

Arleni sat up, as well as Sigrun. Sigrun glanced over at Arleni, but he didn’t see her, but rather he was deep in thought of Maximus. A strange one he had been, and he couldn’t help but think of his murderer, Damien Black. In time, Damien would die by his sword, and only at the appointed time.

“She beckons.” Sigrun stated quietly, receiving no response in return from Arleni, but instead the ladder was cast downward. Sigrun grinned mischievously at Arleni who smiled back in wonder and perplexion, “Sigrun? Why do you smile so?”

“First one to the top of the Great Tree carries the other’s pack for a day’s hike!” he taunted in return, to which Arleni responded by immediately darting downward on the ladder. Sigrun laughed as he turned away from the ladder and leapt to the nearest tree branch and began to move effortlessly in the direction of the Great Tree, and Galadriel. Soon enough, he landed gracefully upon the High Talan, and moved to the top of the staircase, waiting for Arleni. Shortly later, she appeared as she bounded up on the last steps and growled playfully at Sigrun who merely grinned wider.

“You cheat!” she cried.

“No, I merely took the shorter route, and a rather quicker route too!”

Suddenly, elves from the nearby treetops landed all around them, their bows cocked and arrows notched and aimed at their heads. Both fell silent. Deadly silent. One of them asked, “What business do you have here, and why have you come by treetop instead of the ladder?”

Sigrun didn’t move, knowing that a slight movement would cause an arrow to be lodged into his torso. “We have been called by the Lady. Lower your weapons now, if you don’t mind.”

The guard-speaker spoke once again, “We shall see,” however; a moment later a voice fell upon him.

“Release them! Do you not know of our own kindred?! How dare you endanger the lives of your own!”

The guard spoke in apology, “Forgive me, my Lady, but you do know of the evil that lurks in the world still. Every precaution must be taken, as you know…”

“That is so. But these ones are harmless. Return to your posts.” She replied before raising a hand toward the two Elves and beckoning for them to follow her into her home, where Elrond sat at the table and waited. He smiled in greeting to Sigrun and Arleni before speaking, “It is good to see you once again Sigrun, though I wish I could say it was under better conditions…”

“As well as for you Elrond.” Sigrun replied.

The two cast their eyes into each other, remembering the years that had passed and silently communicating their mutual anguish of their memories, good or bad. No words were spoken. None were called for.

Arleni was the first to speak, “We have decided to leave before the rising of the sun. We will wish to take advantage of the cool air of dawn as long as possible.”

Galadriel nodded in approval, then turned her eyes unto Elrond, “You may speak what you wished.”

Receiving a curious look from both of the elves, Elrond merely stood and departed the room, then returned with two long items wrapped carefully in Elven-cloth. With these, he handed them to Sigrun, who bowed as he accepted the gifts.

“These will come in handy for you. Your old weapons are worn and have begun to fail. These have been made with the greatest of care, and will last you for Ages. These shall ensure victory for you at any time, as they have our blessings, and the blessings of the Elders. You will come to understand how important your quest is to all. Even to yourselves…”

Galadriel then spoke softly, but with a commanding air, “Andelu i ven. A erichin, u-dano i faelas a hyn an uben tanatha le faelas.”

In the common tongue, she had said, “The path is very dangerous. Show them no mercy, for you shall receive none.”

Sigrun looked understandingly to Galadriel, then back to Elrond before casting his gaze unto his gifts. Placing one carefully down, he opened the first, and found an exquisite sword of Elven design; light yet sturdy, strong, and razor-sharp. It had a slightly curved blade, curving backwards from the hilt, and had the engravings of Elven words, words that spoke:

Ama poldora en’ Russe tuulo' moriloomir, hyandae en' rauko!
Strength of Lightning, curse of demon spirits!

Holding the blade upwards he admired the work of his people and then thanked Elrond greatly, speaking as he did so, “It is a sword of the highest skilled craft. Such is also the honor to possess such a weapon! I shall call it Lanta, the bolt of lightning that holds the strength of great power!”

Elrond nodded slightly and held his hand out to the second gift as he said, “A gift for you, from the Lady of the Wood.”

Galadriel sharpened her gaze unto Sigrun as he opened this gift, revealing a pearly white Elven-bow, strung with stout Elven-strings, and true to the touch. Sigrun’s eyes widened in surprise at the beauty of the piece.

“It shall sing of the glory of Lorien, yet it shall strike true and deadly to all foes!” cried Galadriel as she smiled at Sigrun’s reaction.

Arleni gasped slightly as she beheld the bow. It was known that very few possessed such bows of beauty and accuracy. It was often a gift bestowed upon those that had proven themselves worthy in the highest respect.

“Use them well, Sigrun, and remember your burden that lies upon you now. It is what you live for. It shall define you.” spoke Elrond as he called for the feast-food to be served.

And a feast it was! An entire table of the most delicious food one could have, and more filling than anything else of the Earth!

In time, the four had finished, and had bid each other good night and now slept the remainder of the night.

Tomorrow, Sigrun’s quest would begin…

Perhaps I better secure my relations with those allies of long ago... thought Sigrun silently to himself as he watched Arleni sleep peacefully in her bed across the room as the sun began to peep through the silken blinds of the exquisite double doors.

Silently he gathered his belongings, put them on himself in their appropriate designated places and walked out of the room, glancing back once again to make sure Arleni was asleep. She would need to stay behind for this particular mission.

He took a deep breath, savored the air and the warmth of the sunlight and climbed off the talan to the ground below. Checking once more to make sure his weapons were with him, he began walking northward through the enchanted forest...
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Sigrun watched the woman move swiftly from rooftop to rooftop. Her pace was silent, yet light as she tracked an unfortunate soul far below. He followed her, keeping his distance, allowing her to do what was needed for her.

She was an elegant woman, yet the years had shown upon her, although masked by her eternal youth. She had experienced much, Sigrun could tell. Strangely, she seemed to keep up a demeanor of coldness about her.

As I would expect her to do so. She’s been like that ever since we were young, he thought to himself, using some elven magic to conceal his presence from her mind. So perfect was his disguise that she did not see nor sense him in any way.

The woman plunged into a dark alleyway and Sigrun’s ears picked up the sounds of a slight scuffle, before silence fell upon the night air.

She has fed. I often wonder why my sister has taken the path of the darkness. Yet, she still has a heart of good I can tell, although hardened by the ages.

Sigrun dropped down silently into the alley, but allowed his feet to make slight noise unto the ground. Less than a second later, the vampire had turned and had drawn her blade to his neck.

“Hello sister. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen each other. A long time indeed!” he simply said, keeping his hands far from his weapons, knowing that she would not strike him down now that he had revealed something personal to her… She also would not strike one who had no weapon in hand. Such was her code of honor.

Skadi stepped back slightly as the man behind her blade spoke casually to her. She thought it rather odd that a stranger with her blade at his throat would be so easy going.

She took a few seconds to scan over the man's features, discovering he was of elven descent. Skadi couldn't recognise anything physically about him, but there was something about his manner that was familiar to her, something she almost recognised deep within her mind. Not willing to take a chance on a hunch though, Skadi kept hold of her blade as she spoke.

"Who are you and why do you bother me, elf?"

Skadi's tone was the same cold, emotionless voice she had used ever since the death of her partner.

"You know who I am." replied Sigrun with a smile.

He watched as Skadi allowed another few feet of distance between the two before he moved away from the wall.

"I am but a mist of the past, an old brother of yours, if you will." he continued, ever watching her face. She would figure it out soon enough, and when she did, she would rememeber...

"Do you not remember our playing grounds when we were younger? The fields in which we had our fun?"

Skadi dropped her blade at the mention of the 'fields'. The metallic clang filled the enclosed alley with a chime for a few seconds whilst the pair stared into eachother's eyes, not saying a word.

A few minutes passed before she finally spoke in a hushed tone, still engulfed within the shock of such a surprise from the identity of this man dawning on her. She had had a vision a few nights ago, also mentioning the fields of her past, but she had shrugged it off as a dream. She couldn't shrug it off now.

"Is it really you, after all this time? How... could you be alive?"

A look of complete shock was plastered against Skadi's pale face as she stared at the elven figure.

Sigrun smiled broadly as Skadi looked on in shock.

"Yes...many circumstances have come to pass, and are set to come. The Elders said I needed to complete a mission, and thus granted me my life stolen long ago. The full story I shall reveal to you in time, but now is not the time, my sister."

Sigrun stepped closer to the befuddled vampire and took hold of her hand. The warmth of his hand, coupled with the pulsing heartbeat created a strange sensation in Skadi's own hand, one of desire to pull his hand closer and bite down. But strangely, she seemed to have control over herself right now, probably helped by her recent feeding.

Sigrun watched her face change a multitude of expressions, each flowing into the next as if it were Niagra Falls itself; shock, fear, confusion, hunger, hate, understanding, joy...

"Uh...Skadi? Don't forget to breathe..." he joked lightly, still concerned for her mental state. Two relations, long parted, now stood apart only an armlength away and unmoving.
__________________

Miles away, in the distant country of Tarlachia, slept Arleni. At least until that moment when Skadi recognized Sigrun. Suddenly she had sat up from her sleep, eyes wide open, mouth open as well as she uttered in near silence:

"She knows..."

The feeling of warm hand upon hers startled Skadi slightly. She had heard his heartbeat, but it hadn't full sunk in that this elf was indeed of the living, now she was sure. It had been almost 2000 years since a warm blooded hand had come into contact with her, it was... odd.

Finally Skadi stepped forward and pulled the elven figure into her cold embrace, wrapping her arms around his lean figure. Such an act was especially rare coming from Skadi.

"I've missed you."

She didn't say anymore, the shock still being too much for her.

Sigrun allowed Skadi to hug him.

"As have I...as have I..."

Finally after some time, Sigrun pulled away from Skadi and had a look of business in his eyes as he addressed her.

"As you can tell, I have returned, things will be different, but I wish to accompany you on your travels. Who knows? The world will tremble at the combined forces of my strengths, and yours, you who are only a second generation of ...sorry...I know it must still annoy you to talk about him... I would like to ask you to join me as I go visit a few other friends, friends who should know I'm here..."

Sigrun's eyes looked wonderingly into Skadi's own as he waited for her response.

Skadi finally found her voice as she nodded happily at Sigrun's request.

"I would like to do that very much, we have much to catch up on old friend."

She slowly bent down and retrieved her blade, sheathing it in a fluid motion as the stood once again, standing face to face with her recently returned 'brother'.

Although he was physically different, this didn not concern her, he was still the same man she loved and remembered.

Sigrun sighed contentedly as he looked to the horizon, toward the beginnings of dawn. He knew that Skadi would be feeling the urge to sleep soon, if not already.

"Tomorrow night we shall go to Valient, via a portal. I wish to visit Drirethlen and Alexander..."

Skadi nodded in understanding as she held his arm, caressing his hand with her own cold hand. It didn't bother Sigrun that much, but in time, he'd get used to it.

I wonder if it is possible for my magic to create a shield for her so we may be able to travel in daylight as well? he thought deeply to himself. Perhaps it was concievable...

Skadi glared at the horizon, taking in the last few minutes of night before the sun arose from hiding and bathed the day in lethal light. She would have to take shelter for the day, as was the custom of her kind.

Grabbing hold of Sigrun, Skadi quickly ascended into the lightening sky and arced around to face the other direction.

"I must keep out of the sun, something it seems that you no longer have to worry about."

The pair shot forth at high velocities, racing towards the safety of Skadi's apartment.

As the sun rose above the skyline, Alexander and Able stared across the city of Valient from their perch on the roof of the Hyraphore.

Able, being half-human, could take the beginning strands of the sun, but Alexander...

His skin begin to darken considerably, and Able could swear he could smell burning flesh.

"Alexander... your skin..."

"Just... one more moment, dear agent."

Alexander looked far off into the distance again, and then turned to Able.

"He's coming. And she's coming with him?"

Before Able could ask who, Alexander turned on his heel and walked back into the massive complex.

The day seemed to prolong itself through the passing hours. Sigrun had tried to get some rest but had failed. Now, he sat on the balcony of Skadi's apartment, dangling his legs over the stone railing. He was looking out to the west, finally watching as the sun began to create its daily mural in the skies above him. All day, he had either sat here, or had revisited old memories in the area: the alley, the bar, and a number of other places.

Those days seemed to have been eons in the past, buried in the thresholds and tentacles of history. Indeed, they had been long ago...

Sigrun remained upon the balcony, watching the sunset fade away continuously. Soon, he knew, Skadi would awaken, and they would make their way.

A quote from a wise person, words that were quite amusing, yet true to its message filtered through Sigrun's thoughts:

"If you want to kick the tiger in his ass, you'd better have a plan for dealing with his teeth."

Sigrun chuckled as he thought of that line. Indeed...his enemies did not know what was in store for themselves...

Stephen Malone walked out of the bathroom. He had thrown up his salad. It had been going on like this for the last few decades. A little bit of food here and there. The sun also started to burn him and irritate his eyes, unless he covered up and wore dark sunglasses. He still looked 29, even after these hundreds of years. He wasn't a vampire, though he knew he'd be one within the next week or two.

Life had seemed normal after he moved to Tarlachia. He had started living a more heathly life, he had completely stoped drinking. But when his 55th birthday rolled around, he and his friend Maximus knew there was something quite amiss. An unforseen side effect of being bitten a vampire. The potion Maximus had given him had stopped the takeover, but something in his body had made him change enough to become immortal. That was it. Stephen was fine with that.

But in the last few months he began notice a trend and didn't need anyone to tell him, the vampire cells the had survived had lay dormate and were now slowly taking him over. When he asked a friend if the change was very painful, he was assured you would just fall asleep for an hour two just before the change finished. Stephen walked into his bedroom and lay on his bed. Some of the sun's rays filtered through a tiny gap in his curtains and hit the floor.
He lay there for a while, listening to his stero which had Layla on, before falling asleep.

OOC: Kinda hurt you didn't ask me to be in this...

Skadi finally awoke as the sun plunged into the horizon, leaving the city within the artificial glow of electric street lights and the rising moon. Within minutes she was dressed in her black attire and armed with her usual weapons, the katana being the only visible one.

Silently she approached Sigrun from behind and wrapped her arms around him.

"I'm ready to leave when you are..."

OOC: ATG, you are most definitely allowed to post...TG me with what you plan to have happen though...the original plans of the thread as you know of have changed, due to the lack of any idea if Roania will ever get back online...

IC:
Sigrun pulled Skadi's arms around him a little tighter. How he had missed that touch of hers...

"Let's go then. We've got to make the best of the night as we can."

Sigrun turned and faced Skadi, giving her a quick wink before waving his hand beside her. Immediately following his hand a portal began to open. He led her into the portal and stepped out the other side.

They were standing before the Hyraphore now, and Sigrun let loose a knock upon the door. A gruff looking fledgeling appeared at the door and ask suspiciously: "What do you want?"

Sigrun maintained a strong look in his eyes. He could feel the vampire's attempt to probe his mind, but was repelled, by Sigrun's as well as Skadi's own telepaths.

"I'm here to see Alexander and Drirethlen. My name is Sigrun, this is Skadi."

Skadi had pondered how they would get to Valient before the night was over, her unvoiced question soon answered by the glow of magical portal. Magic was still something she had to get used to.

Seconds later she stood by Sigrun outside the Hyraphore. Skadi didn't like the idea of being so close to a coven of potentially hostile vampires, but she was confident that she could fight her way out with Sigrun by her side if need be. The feeble attempt at probing her mind was repelled with a fair bit of force, startling the fledgling slightly.

"Well aren't you going to let us in, young one?"

Alexander Kelsing and Daniel Able sat and watched the security monitors as Skadi and Sigrun appeared at the door without any warning.

"Ahh, my friend. It appears that you have grown much since I last saw you. Then again, I suppose that we all have."

Able looked over at Alexander and frowned. Though he was the official liason from the DEO to the Hyraphore, Able did not enjoy his duty.

At times, it seemed that Alexander didn't even notice that he existed.

"Heh, you're gonna get yourself killed if you don't let them in, Tomas..."

Able almost rolled his eyes when he realized Alexander was talking to the guard at the door.

Suddenly, Driretlen appeared at the door to the security room.

"Alexander, Daniel. Our presence has been requested. I do not like keeping guests waiting."

Alexander and Able got up and joined Driretlen in the hall.

"Now, I know that the lady is Skadi of Assington, so Alexander, don't let on about... our friends. As for the man... I have no idea who he is."

Alexander feigned a thoughtful, confused look.

"I do not either. We should be careful."

Driretlen nodded, and headed for the front foyer, followed by Alexander and Able.

Able glanced at Alexander.

He was an enigma to be sure. But he supposed, that question could be left for another time.

The door opened wider as the guard nodded slightly to Sigrun and Skadi. Sigrun could sense Skadi's unease about this place. He understood her worries, the coven had had friction with Skadi, although Sigrun himself had better luck in establishing friendly ties.

Relax Skadi, don't let on your anxiety.

Both walked through the door, and were momentarily led into the dark coven. Visibility was unimpeded, although Sigrun himself didn't have the vampiric benefits as before. Nevertheless, his senses made up for it.

They were led to a commons room and there they waited. A few minutes later, Alexander, Drirethlen, and Able entered the room. Immediately Sigrun sensed their caution.

As expected...

Sigrun nodded slightly, acknowledging their presence.

"Alexander, Drirethlen, and Daniel Able...it is good to see you again!"

Sigrun was toying with them slightly, he knew they'd be confused about what he had just said. Sigrun looked out the window momentarily. Just as he was about to turn his attention back to the others, he caught sight of a small fluff of coarse hair on the edge of the windowsill. Curious, he took another moment to look at it some more. Sigrun couldn't remember if the coven had taken on any pets in the past, but it had been a while since he had been here last. Times did change.

Yet, something irritated him about the hair...

Sigrun looked back at the others and flashed a clean smile.

"Enough! Enough of this foolishness! I want these two out of here, Driretlen. NOW!"

Driretlen turned around and glared at Alexander.

"Alexander. Do you not know how to treat guests."

Alexander turned and smiled icily at Skadi.

"She will never be a guest of any household I reside in. And... as co-leader of the Hyraphore, I again, demand that you get rid of them, before I lose my patience."

Alexander turned on his heel, and stalked roughly between Skadi and Sigrun. As he did, he stopped briefly and whispered into Sigrun's ear.

"I know, Sir Sigrun. I know..."

With that, he continued walking, taking the stairs up to his quarters and out of sight.

Driretlen, sighed, and turned his hands up and towards the front door.

"I... am sorry, Lady Skadi, and Sir Sigrun. He has... other things on his mind, and apparently, has no time for niceties."

Driretlen and Able escorted the two others outside of the main hall, Tomas the door-guard bowing neatly to all that passed him by.

"Again, I am sorry Skadi," said Driretlen, taking the vampiress hand and kissing it. "But I... I must warn you. Alexander is plotting the destruction of your covens. Prepare for a battle with the ones who hunt by the full moon..."

******

Inside his room, Alexander looked out the window and saw Driretlen, Able, Skadi and Sigrun talk.

Alexander saw Driretlen kiss Skadi's hand, and scowled.

"Ahhh, Sigrun... I shall call you that if you want, old friend. It is a pity that you come back at this particular time.

A pity you have to see your whore die by my hands.

A pity indeed."

Sigrun didn't react as Alexander whispered into his ear.

So he knew...but how? Of course! Long ago, both of them had an unusual psychic connection with the other.

Drirethlen ushered them to the door. That was strange. Never in the past has Drirethlen been so subjugate to a younger vampire, even Alexander. Drirethlen took Skadi's hand and kissed it, instantly drawing alarm from Sigrun. Skadi didn't permit others to even kiss her hand, much less touch her without her approval. Sigrun could sense the tension in Skadi.

Not now Skadi...let it go...

In the back of his mind, Sigrun could sense pity and hate from Alexander, who remained unseen somewhere nearby. Sigrun then knew, Alexander was up to something... This was confirmed by Drirethlen's words of warning.

"Thank you Drirethlen, but before you go, I must tell you something..." replied Sigrun, before continuing, "you knew me before long ago, as Maximus..."

Sigrun watched as Drirethlen's face registered shock and disbelief.

"To prove it is I, I ask you to remember our first meeting, in the streets of Emerald City, Assington, under the streetlight..."

Drirethlen's eyes widened a little more, "Impossible!"

Sigrun nodded negatively, "Quite possible my friend, and it has been done. I have returned."

With that, Sigrun led Skadi out the door and into the night. It was time for them to head to Golden Scimitar, to find Stephen...

Sigrun held up his hand to Skadi and opened it. Inside lay the fluff of hair.

"Drirethlen may be speaking the truth. Here's the evidence..."

Skadi was not concerned with Alexander's little outburst, she didn't expect to be treated civily by such an immature fledgling. She kept her eyes on him the whole time, until he stormed off to have his little tantrum.

"That one is a perfect example of why fledglings must be carefully chosen."

Skadi remained silent as the group walked back toward the door. Skadi drew her hand back as Drirethlen kissed it but didn't say anything. She simply gave him a glare that conveyed the message. Don't do that again...

No expression crossed her face as Drirethlen warned her of Alexander's intentions.

"He will pay dearly if he attempts to cross the major vampiric factions of Assington. There have been some... changes."

Before he could reply, Sigrun dragged her outside and showed her the canine hair within his grasp. Again no expression as she appraised the hair...

"And so the child gets dogs to do his work..."

In the capital city of Clarence, next to the ocean many were taking midnight stolls, enjoying the cool night and the refreshing ocean breeze, all spare for one. Stephen walked down the boardwalk deep in thought. He had left for the Golden Simatar several hours before and had just arrived in him homeland. He kept the black trenchcoat tight around him, hiding the pair of Para P14-45 automatics. He had a sword, back at the room he was staying in a hotel, but he prefered the security the two heavy .45 pistols gave. It was a hassle smuggling them through customs, but he knew he might need them.

He had told his boss at the computer company where he worked as a programmer, he had gone back to school several years after he started living in Tarlachia and recived a degree in computer programming, he needed a few days to get things straight. Everyone in the 20 person company knew what Stephen was going through, and knew he wanted to go some place where he could be alone for a while. His girlfriend asked if she could come, but Stephen didn't want her hounding every time he felt tired.

He sat on a bench and looked across the ocean. In the distance he saw the lights of a merchant ship going out to sea. He felt pain in his gut. That again, guess my figure of two more weeks before becoming a vampire were wrong. Might only have a day or two. Or less. Stephen would be glad when he turned, the pain he'd been feeling hurt even worse than the time before. He also hoped when he turned, he'd be in his room or somewhere were someone wouldn't try to steal his things while he was down.

Stephen turned his head upwards and stared at the moon. His blue eyes shimmered as the moon and star light fell on him.

"Good evening, Stephen." came the mysterious voice from behind.

Immediately, Stephen leapt from the bench and turned around to find an Elf standing there watching him. This Elf was dressed somewhat peculiarly, as if the clothes on him weren't plain clothing, but living clothing. They seemed to flow around his strong form as if they were but an illusion.

Stephen eyed Sigrun with distrust. Sigrun watched him, studying his reactions.

Seems that he's been changing, for better or worse...

Skadi appeared from seemingly out of nowhere. She had gone off to feed, and apparently was done already. She seemed invigorated once more as she smiled warmly to Sigrun, then turned a cold look onto Stephen.

OOC: Who bit Stephen, or how did he first become introduced to vampirism? Just to refresh my memory, if you don't mind.

OOC: When the VRO took over the White House a female vampire bit him on the arm.

Stephen's hand flew inside his jacket and had the menacing barrel leveled at Sigrun. He felt the pain in his gut grow stronger and more frequent he also felt a little dizzy. He pulled the hammer back with his thumb.
"Who are you?" Stephen asked.
When Skadi showed up he lowered the barrel, slightly. It didn't make sense to him, Skadi had never trusted anyone, outside of Maximus. Though he had known her for he guessed several hundred years, she never had seemed to have warmed up to him or even trust him in any way shape or form. It didn't make sense, the pain in his gut continued to grow, and Stephen knew he might now have only a few more minutes before collasping and finishing the change.

Sigrun didn't move as he noticed the hostile reaction of the gun.

"You know who I am. Put down the gun, I assure you, I'm a friend."

With that, Sigrun led Stephen to the nearby ocean. Looking down, he pointed to a calm point in the ocean and watched as Stephen followed his instructions.

"Look into the mirrors of time and tell me what you see of me..."

Stephen walked on the sand his eyes never leaving Sigrun. He still held the automatic, but had put the hammer back. What he saw made his spine tingle.

He saw himself on the beach, not next to the elf, but Maximus. He stepped back his eyes wide as though he saw a ghost as he stared at Sigrun. His breathing quickened.
"Maximus? But, you're dead. How?"

"I have returned when others thought it impossible. Yet, the improbable isn't always the impossible. I have a role to play in future events that will be a large factor in their outcomes. Thus, the Elders had granted me return, and have made it possible...that's the quick side of the story. But now, tell me, what about you? What has been going on? I sense a major change, and I can smell your lust for blood...why is it that you've taken so long to convert to the darkness?"

Sigrun paused and looked over at Skadi.

You know, I don't think it would be a bad idea for you to take him under your guidance. It doesn't hurt to have another ally...after all, he's been a half-fledgling for so long without the guidance of an Elder or Ancient...

"I don't know, I went to a doctor to see and something in my body has been keeping it at bay. They can't find an answer, thier only guess is that since I've never ingested vampire blood the change has never been going on constantly. Off and on kinda thing. I dont really know, but I know I only have only an hour or two now before turning completly." Stephen said.

"Interesting...It's taken you this long eh?"

Sigrun thought back to when he first knew of Stephen's first physical encounter with a vampire...nearly 1000 years ago. The female's bite on his arm. The attempt to stop the lethal blood transformation, which must have had a strong effect, but hadn't killed off the ethereal poison.

"Well, should you need any help understanding the night life, come to me and I'll answer your questions."

Skadi, should we ask for his cooperation in the event something occurs between the Hyraphore and ourselves?

Stephen put the pistol back in his hoslter.
"Okay. So what do you think of......." Stephen's hand held his head as he stumbled in the sand before collapsing into the soft ground. His body shuddered slightly as the vampire blood finished the transformation that had been stopped nearly 1000 years ago.

An hour later

Stephen heard the ocean and got up. He was lying next to the wall that kept the board walk several feet above the beach. Sigrun and Skadi were sitting on the stairs. Stephen ran his tongue over his teeth, he felt his new fangs. He was now a vampire, and he felt a new pain in his gut. Different somehow than before. He looked at Sigrun.
"Well, now its done. So, as I was asking, what do you think of Clarence?"

Skadi gave Sigrun a scowl as his suggestion entered her mind.

"Why would I do such a thing?"

The ancient vampire kept her eyes on Stephen whilst he discussed the issue at hand. Skadi had never heard of it taking so long for one to turn and she was interested as to what the effects would be. She wasn't sure if Stephen would now have the strength of a 1000 year old vampire since he had lived on the spread of darkness throughout his body for so long or if he would merely have the power of a fledgling since he had only just become a full vampire.

Skadi was patient as Stephen finally turned, completing his conversion into the darkness.

"Perhaps we should wait and see what he can do first..."

"Clarence is a nice city, and a nice feeding ground for you."

I guess you may be right, after all, you never did give a damn about anyone other than those directly related to you. I agree though, we should wait and see what he has to offer. However, take my word on it...Alexander is up to something. Something as sinister as the cold stares of Death...

"Tell me, as a vampire now, what are your abilities? Did they develop over the years, or is it as if you were a fledgling?"

Sigrun watched both Stephen and Skadi as both pondered their respective issues.

"In terms of devloping over the years, there have been little bits here and there. There was this case of a little bit of sun got into my room and burnt my hand very badly and, it healed within....15 mintues if I remember." Stephen said, thinking back.
"There have been a few times where I think I might have heard people's thoughts, feels kinda wierd. It wasn't until sunlight and silver started hurting did I get a feeling of something was a bit amiss. So, up to that point I really don't know. My sword skills have improved, a little. Is there any test or anything, that might prove if my ablities have delvoped over the years or the strenght of a fledgling?"

For the first time, Skadi stepped forward and spoke. Her tone was bitter and cold as usual, ringing throughout the room.

"There are several things that must be tested to determine such. All vampires of our breed possess the same abilities, the older ones simply have more power and skill with these abilities. For example, I would be able to jump much further down the length of the beach than you whether you be a fledgling or not, but based on my experience I could judge your ability compared to mine."

Stephen nodded. Skadi was the oldest vampire he knew, and now being a vampire he had to respect her much more than he did when he was human.

"Alright, let me give it a try."

Stephen walked a little down the beach to the ocean to give himself a clear area to jump. Taking a step forward he leapt into the air, Stephen landed a short time later with a slight skid in the sand. He turned around, to see where Sigrun and Skadi were, he could still see them but they were slightly smaller. He couldn't tell the distance, but knowning from Skadi's skill, she'd probably go much farther than him.

Skadi took a quick glance at Stephen's position before launching herself far into the sky, moving much faster and higher than seemed possible for even a vampire to do. Her hair and coat flapped around as the air moved under it, adding to the effect of a black blur shooting forward at high speeds.

Finally she began to descend, landing in the sand with a loud thump and rather large crater due to her impact. Skadi was barely visible on the horizon, although her eyesight could still make out the two figures easily. Another jump saw Skadi landing next to Stephen, the cold looks still upon her pale face.

"I'd you have the strength of one perhaps.... half your vampiric age. Maybe slightly more."

Saying that Stephen was surprised by Skadi's jump could be considered a great understatment. One second she was gone the next, she was right next to him.
"So, I'm a bit more powerful than a regular fledgling?"

OOC: Sry if this question sounds silly Assington, but you worded your sentence a bit strangly.

Sigrun watched as both of the vampires engaged in their displays of skill. In the time it took Skadi to move next to Stephen, Sigrun had used a simple spell to "pull" himself closer to the two. The only indication of his movement was the sand that swirled around his feet and settled quickly. He answered Stephen's question:

"Yes...so it appears. However, I do think I would like to see your fighting skills, see how well you can hold yourself up against an expert like Skadi?"

Sigrun didn't speak the next thoughts in his mind out loud: And I want to see if you've improved your fighting since the coup...

Skadi recieved another message from Sigrun:

Skadi...I think this will help us determine whether or not he will be worthy enough. If you remember, he was decent in his fighting during the coup, but he wasn't good enough to prevent me from injuring him. I think it would be good to see how he has learned from his mistakes...if at all. I will let your word be final as to his use.

Stephen stared at Sigrun with his mouth opened. Then he remembered Vampires could talk telepathically (OOC: I think that is the term). Stephen remembered also his shock when he found out that vampires could also read minds. Though Sigrun was no longer a vampire, he still seemed to have that power. He decided to give it a try.

"I'm still a dead shot with small arms. As you can remember back then my sword skills were non-existant. I've practiced with a sword for the past years, and have improved. As you can see, my sword is not with me, I can hide the Paras easily enough, but a sword is another story. May I suggest I go back to my hotel room, get it, and find an alley to practice? It be strange for someone walking down the boardwalk seeing two vampires dueling."

Sigrun looked carefully at Stephen. He would have to remember to begin to shield specific thoughts, now that Stephen was a vampire. Although Sigrun didn't have the vampire telepathy, he had his Elven telepathy, which he simply altered slightly to find the same wavelength as Skadi or whomever he wished to 'think' to.

Ah well...might as well allow the young one to practice his telepathy.

It's up to Skadi. I lay my word with hers.

Skadi nodded at Stephen's question.

"You have been slowing turned into a vampire for the last 1000 years, hence your vampiric age is such. Because you did not turn immediately like most, you appear to have the strength of one half that age."

Skadi gave Sigrun a slight scowl.

"A duel between us may not be wise, we don't want our friend dead before he gets the chance to fight a real enemy. Perhaps we should determine the magnitude of his powers first."

The dark haired vampire turned back to Stephen, the cold look back on her face.

"First of all, what do you know of vampiric abilities and what do you think you can do?"

Stephen thought for a little while before answering Skadi's question.

"Well, I know we can talk telepathically and read a person's mind if they don't shield it well, climb walls and ceilings, and by that long jump I just did, great strength, and we are much faster. My senses are muchb better now. Vampires can also self-heal faster than humans. I really don't know how good I am at most of my new ablities. Over the past few years, as I've mentioned before I began to heal quicker than I would have, and when I was traveling I heard a word or two of someone's thoughts."

Skadi nodded once again.

"That is mostly it, save for a few others. We also have telekinetic abilities. Once you gain enough strength with such an ability, you will be able to levitate yourself with ease, hence the vampiric ability of flight. Know that we are also beyond common diseases, matters of food and other such human issues. Whilst immune to diseases, there are some poisions and other biological agents that may harm us. I'm sure you're aware of your vulnerability to sunlight, what of silver?"

Skadi waited patiently for Stephen's reply. She knew he was a quick study, but many knew vampires were overwhelmed at their knew abilities. She coulf easily recall when she had first discovered such.

"I know silver hurts. A silver bullet to the head or decapitation by a silver blade kills." Stephen said. Stephen didn't know about the telekinetic ablitites, that really surprised him, the diseases he was slightly unsure about, and food he knew about also.

"That is correct. You seem to know all the basics, only time and experience will help you learn the rest. You're quite fortunate to end up like this, that kind of power whilst only just fully turned. Understand this, you must learn restraint and control, or you will end up being more of a hazard than a help."

Skadi's tone took on a lethal aspect, almost as if she were saying, become a problem and I'll kill you. She had no intention of taking Stephen as her fledgling, yet she would offer advice since he was of their cause.

Sigrun listened as Skadi went through her lessons, while he had taken his bow and inspected it, making sure it was in prime condition. It was, as usual.

He chuckled as he heard Skadi's hidden warning of holding self-control. Indeed, this was true, something that he himself had learned long long ago.

With slow movements, Sigrun drew an arrow from the recesses of his Elven cloak, notched it to the fine bowstring and aimed at Stephen's head from twenty meters. With a deliberate smile he called out.

"Oh Stephen..."

The arrow fired.

OOC: man... another vampire that Alexander has to kill, lol. Maybe Able will have a go. :D

OOC: Imagine Alexander's reaction when he sees the hunter who caused him trouble in Tarlachia, now a vampire. lol

IC:

"I will control myself and be as much help as possible Skadi."

Stephen knew she wouldn't hesitate to kill him if he became a pest, he learned very quickly after the coup to stay on her good side. Though she still didn't seem to of warmed up to him enough that they may be actual friends, she did seem to him a little more now.

"Oh Stephen..."

Stephen heard the twang of the bow and a whistle of the arrow. The world seemed to go in slow motion while Stephen pivoted and crouched at the same time, his black trenchcoat flying behind him, his hands grasping the Para automatics. Then the world seemed to pick up as the arrow missed his head by inches and both barrels were leveled at Sigrun's chest. Stephen smiled and put the pistols away.

"That was exciting. But, I'd rather clean my ears out with a Q-Tip then an arrow any day."

Skadi nodded in approvement.

"Your reactions are acceptable. I'd say you're as able as any fledgling to learn our ways, just be mindful that you are unsually strong for a new vampires. Always keep your wits about you, and you shall survive. And be wary of hunters."

Skadi gave a slight smile to Sigrun, making it obvious she approved of his 'arrow test'.

"I will be. Well if you're worried about hunters here, you can relax. The Golden Simatar, as far as I know, never had any other Simatarian vampires, besides myself." Stephen said. "You might say the Golden Simatar is kinda of a temporary safe haven for our kind."

Sigrun smiled. Of course there weren't many dark creatures in Golden Simitar. He had traveled wide and far and hadn't met any from that nation. Sigrun turned to the east and observed the sky slightly getting lighter.

"Skadi, Stephen, it's time for us to complete the last task for tonight. You might find this quite interesting if you wish to tag along..."

With that, Sigrun waved his hand in a triangular position, using each of them as a focus point. In the middle, a blue watery triangle began to take shape upon the ground. Sigrun held his arm out to the other two as he spoke.

"I know you're not used to this method of travel, but trust me, it's perfectly safe."

To demonstrate, Sigrun stepped forward into the water-like portal and disappeared downward. Moments later he appeared within an office in the main stronghold of Roania. Stephen and Skadi momentarily appeared next to him, slightly dazed from the experience, or wary...

Remaining silent, Sigrun pulled out a scroll from his cloak and placed it upon the desk, clearly in view... He motioned for the other two to follow him to a dark corner of the office, before 'pulling' a curtain around them. There, they would wait, completely unseen, unheard, undetected in any way...

Stephen looked nervous, this was new to him. He had seen magic once or twice, but this was strange. He then remembered his sword was back in the Golden Simatar.

"Sh*t, my sword is in my hotel room. Well, got two heavy autos and about a dozen spare mags. Where are we?"

A grey, slobbering creature vaguely shaped like a man walked into the room on all fours. Suddenly, it sniffed the air, and flipped over so it looked like it was crab-walking. The monster disgustingly pawed at the air, slowly rising up to two legs, still 'sniffing'. It looked at the scroll, and gave a high-pitched shriek, a shriek which carried across all planes and into the void, summoning its master's presence.

~~

Damien sat in the meditation chamber of the Tarnaqin Kremlin, his eyes half-closed. He extended his hand, and a grey, shimmering hawk-like bird appeared on it. 'Fly to the Stronghold, my familiar... fly, and discover what is wrong there...'

~~

The essence of reality was torn apart as the bird appeared in the Stronghold, hovering over the table. With an almost human expression of contempt, it clawed at the Gheist and swooped down, snatching the scroll from the table and then flying towards the wall. Just when it looked like it would crash, a dark hole suddenly opened and the bird vanished from sight.

~~

Damien was at his desk when his familiar appeared beside him. Barely looking up, he took the scroll from its mouth, stroked the feathers on top of its head, and spelled the dismissal. "What have we here..."

As Damien opened the scroll, his eyes scanned over the text written in a cryptic tone.

"What do you have that others use more than you?"

I'm back.

___________________

Back in the stronghold, Sigrun let loose a laugh, deep and strong in its tone as he projected it throughout the entire complex. A similar laugh echoed from the scroll in Damien's hands...

Sigrun snapped his fingers and the trio disappeared from the stronghold.

Damien laughed himself, and then very calmly tossed the paper up into the air, where it hung. 'Please...' There was a shift in the fabric, and a messenger stepped through. We're all happier without it being described.

Damien put up a finger, indicating that the messenger should 'please wait'. He hastily scribbled something on his own scroll, then affixed a runic trap to it. 'Power of void and null, crush this pathetic fool...' he passed the scroll to the messenger. "Take this to the one who wrote that scroll," the Tsar indicated the scroll in the air. "Under no circumstances harm him."

The messenger bowed at one of its joints, and with much clicking of mandibles disappeared back into oblivion. Damien sat at his desk for a few minutes, then pointed a finger at the scroll in the air. It vanished from existence.

Somewhere deep within a remote forest in an undisclosed nation, the 'messenger' of Damien arrived carrying the note...

~~~~~

"He sends a message..." Sigrun announced to his fellow travelers, watching through the view-port that shimmered before Sigrun instantly upon the arrival of a possible hostile creature, "And likely, he has tried to put some jinx or spell on it. Very well, he will learn the hard way..."

~~~~~

Sigrun projected an exact duplicate of himself to appear near the messenger. The messenger strangely delivered the note to the clone, instantly triggering the spell Damien had placed upon it. The clone seemed to be crushed into oblivion, its body crushed under an unseen force.

~~~~~

"As I said...Damien is not one to be trusted at any time." Sigrun said with a smug look. In fact, he seemed to be laughing in defiance. "Time to go..."

Sigrun took Skadi's arm and motioned for Stephen to step into the portal he had activated next to them. The three disappeared through, toward an unknown destination in the world.

Damien would never find him, for he would not be found unless Sigrun wished it so...