NationStates Jolt Archive

The candlelight flickers softly in the light breeze of the early morning. Outside the sounds of birds provides a melodic music to the ears. A sparrow darts past the open window of Arleni's personal quarters. She looks up to gaze out the window in deep thought.

She blinks and looks back down at the scroll before her. A feminine hand of eternal youth reaches out to dip the feather in the ink once more, and then returns to begin the documentary.



Tarlachia... A nation of many wonders...A nation of pride...A nation of turmoil and wars. Long have I lived, and long will I continue to live. I am but an eternal witness to the folly of creation, to the ever changing world. I have watched my homeland spawn from the shadows of great nations, and form its own reputation. I have witnessed the First Council, the first gathering of dragons, elves, and men. From that council the nation of Tarlachia was born, created as separate states under a unified constitution. The dragons, being as they are, chose to remain in the mountains, secluded and unaffected by the short lives of men. My people have done so as well, but have had more contacts with the men. So, for nine hundred and sixty nine years, men ruled the lands of Tarlachia with an iron fist. For a short time, it worked, but their folly was soon revealed.

War tore apart the men and divided the peoples once again. The Bleeding Hearts War; so named by men; scarred the land and the citizens of the nation for three and a half years. Finally, men of the Norim race forced the surrender of the Raxhun race of men and took upon themselves the reins of the government. Democracy was abolished, and the Kingdom served for the nation's purposes for some time, before men chose free will once again.

In the year of two thousand twenty seven, the first of the Moonwalkers made their distasteful emergence in the fair lands of Tarlachia. My people became alarmed at the arrival of these creatures some may know as vampires. We kept watch, and controlled them as we saw fit. We soon found that they were creatures that wished for their own homes in this land, and watched as they slowly built their numbers. One human, then known as Maximus Destroi turned undead two hundred and thirty five years before. With an inborn strength and leadership, he led the undead on a coup de'tat and successfully took control of the nation. Strangely, he disappeared.

This was the time I recieved the orders to follow him in his exploits carefully and stealthily. Soon however, we came into contact and became friends. I learned more about this Maximus, and delved into his aura. What I found shocked and surprised me beyond the stars. He was of my kin, a long displaced descendant of the Norim and Elves. Soon however, he learned this from myself, after I recieved guarded permission to do so.

I watched as Maximus evolved into a fearsome warrior of the light and dark. A parody of combat if you will. For the next half century, he roamed the grasslands, the mountains, the deserts, and the cities of the world. He fought, always fought for what was good. He battled men, demons, and more...

Yet there was one who he never defeated. That one shall remain unknown to you, as his memory is not worthy of mention. A most distateful person who prematurely cut the thread of my cousin's life.

I thought that destiny had been declined to Maximus. It appeared to shun him of a rightful death. Yet, I was wrong, for the Regalias [the Fates] had a grander plan for us all.

The seasons passed only once, before I felt the aura of my beloved friend and cousin once again. He had returned through mysterious methods I will not question. How he arrived is beyond my understanding, but I am sure that some of our distant cousins in Middle Earth are responsible. He came to me, under the alias of Sigrun. His name, I realized was "secret victory", no doubt to taunt the very one who killed him before. I came to see that his death merely set the seemingly invincible cousin of mine on a secure standing, and gave him much wisdom he would not have learned otherwise. He has lost the mark of the night, but has gained in the light greatly. Strangely, he prefers to keep company with his old allies, including the one who gifted him with the mark of the Moonwalkers.

The sands of time now demand a new change in Tarlachia, one I foresee to last longer than any of the other changes in the long history of the land. Sigrun Greenwood, descendant of the purebred Greenwood High Elf clan has learned of an ancient prophecy, an ancient destiny in which he plays the lead role.

However, that time is now, and Sigrun still controls his fate, his destiny to some extent. Will he deny the destiny set before him, or will he fulfill the prophecy? Only time slips past our fingers as we wait in anticipation.

Arleni let her last words dry on the parchment and stood up as she rolled it carefully and set it in an ornately designed container that sat to her right. A soft spell was uttered, sealing the container closed, sealing the documentary until time deemed its presence necessary once more...

Nice work, man, really nice!

Wearing just a pair of black jeans and socks, Stephen Malone stood on the balcony of his apartment, looking out across the capital of the Golden Simatar. From his tenth story apartment, the vampire could look out across the city of Clarence and see much of the ocean. He took a deep breath and let the smell of the nearby ocean fill his lungs. It was damn good to be home.

Stephen walked back into his bedroom and put on a black t-shirt, covering the scars on his body. Even after a thousand years, the scars from his days in the Simatarian Ranger Regiment had never fully healed. He a dual armpit holster over his shirt, he grabbed his two Para Ordnance P14s and put one in each holster, though he had several other firearms, he probably didn’t need to carry anything; he did it out of habit. Stephen reached down to pick up his 1796 Heavy Cavalry sword, but decided to leave it. Stephen put on his black trenchcoat, went out of his apartment and headed down to the street.

As he walked down the street, Stephen couldn’t help but smile to himself. He was the only vampire in the whole nation. Though that seemed like a free ticket to do whatever he wanted, he was always careful to keep a very low profile. He knew if the government found out there was a vampire, they would hire out the best hunters they could find. Stephen didn’t want to risk being found, so he decided when he arrived to only half-drain his victims, so that a vampire related death wouldn’t be reported.

Remarkably, not much had changed in the Golden Simatar. Buildings had been remodeled, streets changed, presidents and administrations had come and gone, and that was about it. The Simatarian attitude to the existance of vampires had never changed from when he was a human. He had checked out the area where he had lived in the suburbs as a kid and found it to of gone back to a forest. Stephen had also gone to the battlefield of his last fight in the Rangers.

Moving through the preserved ground at night, memories of that day played before his eyes like a movie as he retraced his steps from the DZ to Mendez’s compound. Outside of his old neighborhood now a forest, the only other major difference he saw was Lander Mining Consolidated. He remembered it starting out as just single mine over seven hundred years ago, now it was a multi-billion dollar corporation.

Stephen’s senses were soon bombarded by music and the smell of cooking food. He entered the massive Addison Memorial Park, and smiled. One thing would never changed in Clarence no matter what happened; the weekly party was always going to be held. Every week, local bands would set up a stage and play while many people came to get fresh barbeque and relax after a stressful week.

Stephen slipped in the crowd of about a thousand plus people and calmly walked around. A local high school band was up on the stage playing a mix of jazz and rock and roll, which other bands got their instruments ready for their performances and sold their CDs. At the moment, he felt the pain in his stomach telling him to feed. That could wait for right now.

Stephen was just going to enjoy being home.

A very stealthy hairy looking bulky character in black clothes and sunglasses walked up to Stephen.
"Why hello Stephen that is your name isn't it?
Stephen avoided him
"Good thing you don't feel in the mood our else something might happen."
"Yes, you do know what I'm talking about. I have pictures take a look."
Stephen was enraged
"Ha Ha. I know about your friend Sigrun Greenwood he's one of the last elfs who isn't in hiding. I want you to help me exterminate him or I'll show the government these pictures of you as a vampire."

"I hope you get my point because I'm not joking and I would like your 'services' starting next week."

tag

The leaves hardly were disrupted as Sigrun entered the Realm of the Elves. He nodded as he spied the sentries standing watch from their well concealed positions. They nodded in return and let him pass, as they had done so many times before. Within twenty minutes, he was entering the borders of the nearest village nestled high above in the canopy. The village, although hidden well, was possible to be seen by only the sharpest of eyes.

He finally left the seclusion of the forest and ascended into the trees. Soon, he passed the homes of many elves, all watching as he passed by. Some even whispered amongst themselves..

Whispers could be told as he made his way to the largest talan. He smiled softly to himself as memories emerged from the depths of his mind...

Stephen looked at the man and kept walking through the crowds, he sensed the man following him, so he walked to a small group of tables and sat down in a chair. His hands went inside his trenchcoat, seemly because of a brief gust of cold air. Stephen's cobalt blue eyes stared at the sunglasses.

What he did next probably surprised the man, the vampire started to chuckle. Stephen wasn't intimidated by the man's threat, which didn't make any sense. He had no idea how the man got the pictures, a few close up shots, his fangs slightly visible, along with several other pictures. This should have scared him into submitting and helping kill his close friend.

Sigrun was one of Stephen’s closest friends and he could never live with himself if he sold the elf out. Stephen had been a human for a thousand years and a vampire for only two years. During much of that that time, he had been close friends with the vampire Maximus after the coup he lead in Tarlachia. Now his friend was back though now an elf and no longer a vampire, he was still his friend and Stephen would never sell him out.

He knew there was something different about this person, there were no hunters in the Golden Simatar, and the man was a foreigner who managed to track him down. Though he was only a fledgling, he was far more powerful than most vampires at his age and could easily deal with the man. He had proved himself more than capable of handling an enemy in close combat in Assington a year before.

Stephen's eyes turned back to the stage where another band had set up and started playing more modern rock. He stared at the stage, not looking at the man as he spoke.

"My friend, you obviously know nothing of the Simatarian government. The chances of them believing a vampire in here is one in a million...the chances of those photos getting anywhere near a government official....maybe negative fifty to a million. You also know nothing of me…I am not someone who bends before scumbags like you at the sight of a few pictures. No amount of blackmail will make me sell out my friend. Take it from a Simatarian, you are wasting your time.”

Eric was enraged at such an easy defeat. And started to walk home towards his dark red car. Then he got a better idea he would just follow Stephen. It was almost impossible to lose the vampire in the crowd it'd be very easy to track him.
This was also a falure for Eric which he despised himself for. King Werr had taken pictures of vampires during The Wars. He had made them editable so you could blackmail any vampire you found.
"Oh Well" Eric sighed.

He then saw something quite pleasing it looked like a very nicely dressed proffesor or goverment offical had walked towards this part of town to either A) recieve a package or B) to enlist someones services. It looked like Eric would need to be dressed within the hour... that is if he was interested in that job. Besides if it wasn't a job he could just kill the guy off and pretend to be him. Then at night he could track Stephen with his keen since of smell. Ha Ha he chuckled to himself becuase foolishly he thought he had everything worked out.

Stephen watched as the man turned and left. He sat there for several moments before it finally hit him what the man was. Stephen growled to himself a single word.

"Lycan."

The young vampire swore softly in Ancient Simatarian. Stephen looked around and seeing no one, pulled out a magizine from one of his P14s and smiled. 14 silver .45 bullets in the magizine and the same in the other. He slide the magizine back and stood up.

The thought of getting a meal was quickly dashed from his mind as he turned to more important matters. First off, where the hell was Sigrun? Stephen didn't have to worry about the pictures, the lycan would be laughed out of the country if he so much as suggest a vampire was here.

Stephen remembered something Sigrun told him about sending a falcon when he wanted to contact him. He sighed and looked at the party around him.

"So much for enjoying a good time at home."

Stephen quickly left the park and moved into an alley. Jumping onto a building he raced across the roofs of Clarence. He made his way through the suburbs and into the forests near the city. Stephen moved for nearly a half and hour before seeing a falcon, sleeping peacefully on a branch. Stephen pulled out a bit of paper and a pen and quickly wrote a message:

Sigrun,

I think you should know this, a lycan is looking for you here in the Golden Simatar. He approached me, wanting me to help exterminate you. I told him to piss off and he left. He has photos of me, but don't worry. He will be laughed out of town. I'm sorry I cannot give any more information at this moment. I will keep an eye on the lycan and see what he does.

Stephen

The vampire rolled up the paper and pulled out some string. Moving quickly, he grabbed the bird and quickly tied the note to it's leg. The falcon screeched and clawed Stephen's cheek, the wound quickly healed over. Stephen watched the bird fly away, hoping it found Sigrun.

Stephen turned around and headed back towards the city.

Sigrun nodded to the various members of the elven court as he strode casually through the elegant doors that led to the interior of the Hall. As he walked with deliberate slowness and amazing calm, the shadows played across his passing figure, seeming to draw a sense of complatency of life. He breathed in deeply, savoring the richly pure smells of the forest. Any foreigner would feel that they were entering a realm that had remained in the folded pages of a past history, as if they had stepped back in time.

The finely crafted oaken doors were pulled open as Sigrun entered the royal court and made his way to a side room not too far from the simple elven thrones. His people never cared for the glamour and eloquence that men seemed to favor in their courts.

The sounds of soft music could be heard as a lone female sat upon a nearby bough and played an instrument that seemed to bring songs of another world, a world where peace reigned supreme and war had never been witnessed. Alas, the sands of time denied them the pleasure of remaining in those innocent times. The times before war, the times before racial hatred, before disease, before men.

Sadly, the ultimate onslaught of all that was wrong in this world had begun roughly about the same time that humans had begun to populate the forests, deserts and plains of the world. Some had thought that the men would go the way of the Gonri, and become extinct long before history would note their presence. Yet, destiny had given men intelligence, and so they had thrived. Some branches of men became much like the elves, at one with the environment and often at peace. Unfortunately, these men also were subject to the very things that lay in every human's soul.

Conflict. War. Greed. Rage. Power...

Sigrun closed his eyes as he thought back to the earlier years of his life, when he had been enshrouded and chained to the threads of time by those very soul-destroying traits. How he had become a fearsome being, how he had terrorized the cities, the nations with his strength.

And how he had been wrong the whole time...

"Sigrun."

He opened his eyes to look up at the male elf adorned in elven armor, standing before him with a falcon perched on his arm. The falcon screeched momentarily, as if to tell Sigrun of the rudeness of his captor only hours before. The elf handed Sigrun a small paper, rolled up tightly.

Sigrun opened it and read the words quickly, taking to heart the quick memo from his one-time enemy turned friend. He motioned for the falcon-caretaker to wait as he turned and approached a small table. He pulled out an ink pot and feather and wrote his reply:

Stephen,

It is good to hear from you again. Worry not for the one that follows you. As you read this message, I have placed a spell upon it that will allow you to know instantly in your mind what to say when you will ask to see those pictures. Not only will the pictures you see disintegrate, but any others that relate to your existence will do so as well. Use it with care, as it is only a single use spell.

On another note, if you could make your way here in short time, your assistance in setting up the events to the ceremony will be greatly appreciated. Live well my friend.

Sigrun


Sigrun rolled the parchment tightly and reattached it to the falcon's leg once more. He spoke softly, his words hardly audible, "See that this bird is rested before he returns, and ensure he is fed."

"Yes sir." replied the elf as he departed with the falcon perched on his arm.

Sigrun turned away and faced the window, watching the leaves of the forest sway slightly with the breeze. Arleni, see me in my quarters.

The reply was nearly instantaneous Be there in a few minutes.

"So what is your story?"

"Although your conversationalist nature is amiable, I am in no mood for conversation at present. If you would be so kind to grant me solitude."

Rosencrantz well spoken words were delivered under the pretence of politeness, but the truth was that he just wanted some time to himself, to enjoy the rather expensive wine which he had just bought himself. The barkeep obliged him with a look which was wondering if his regular customer was not satisfied with the wine he had just given him. Indeed, if this was the case, Rosencrantz, the regular refined customer, would cease to pay the high price for the wine he bought on occasion.

Rosencrantz was dissatisfied with the highly expensive wine which he savoured in his own wine glass; it was with the current situation he was in. He needed time to think, time to reconsider his options. The wine which he had just bought was most likely the last one he would buy, if his income continued to steady decent into mundanity. Poverty was something Rosencrantz would never abide, he enjoyed the wine in his glass, his clothing comfortable and neat, and his trade in demand.

He sipped at the expensive elven wine, which was created by a highly laborious task few knew of. The price was steep, and Rosencrantz usually had that amount of coin after a job. After a job, he would usually purchase a glass, even two, as a sort of celebration of his victory. A ritual which signified his success over those who would oppose his employer, whoever that might be, trader or thief, disgruntled wife or noble scholar. It did not matter who demanded his service, just the price. The danger goes up, the price goes up. The complications increase, more payment is required. The law was normally the complication in question.

It was as simple as that.

What Rosencrantz was currently considering was the wisdom of setting up within this area. Work was little and scarce, and when work did come, it was hardly the grand and challenging work that he was used to. His most recent endeavour was guarding a home while the occupants went away for a business meeting. It was a boring affair which was hardly what he would have accepted normally, but there were no other jobs at the time. The pay was small, and he couldn't really justify the drink which he sipped at right now.

Perhaps it was a habit he couldn't break. Perhaps he needed a reminder of better days. Perhaps he just needed a drink.

It doesn't matter anyway, Rosencrantz thought. He looked at the liquid within his glass, looking at the same liquid which had been drinking for the last dozen minutes. A few heartbeats past, and his line of thought returned to back to what was the matter at hand.

Work was small, and his trade was no longer really needed anymore here. A quiet place like this was ideal to lay low for a while, and Rosencrantz had done precisely that. The nature of his passage into this place was one of necessity. A job in another, far more demanding and perilous city, had gone wrong. His payer had been killed, and the law had blamed him. Escape was rather difficult, and continuing his habitance in that place was far too unprofessional.

Slipping out of the city like a shadow under the direct look of the sun, he simply changed his location. He took someone's horse, doubtlessly someone rich owned it judging by the quality of the stable which he ran to, and fled to find new work.

This small village was ideal for his safety, but made his purse hungry and his mind bored. He enjoyed the thrill of combat, the steel against steel and the test of endurance against another. The smell of your opponent as he tried and bests you.

The sellsword was in little demand here.

Another sip at his wine to ail the troubles somewhat.

And his wine was the answer to his current dilemma. It was strange, the wine seemed to alter his decision in a right way. It had guided his life, those quiet moments on his own, drinking the wine sombrely, cataloguing thoughts and considering his options. It had made him decide many life changing things, and was the reason why he had the abilities he had, and a sword by his side which he could use better than most. It was why he had a scar on his left hand from an axe which had sunk deeply into it. Why he new sought combat and relished it like he did his wine. Why he had learned various arts and abilities which would aid his freelance nature.

"This wine. Where does it originate from again?" Rosencrantz asked the barkeep, attracting his attention once more to the barkeep who was attending some used mugs, no doubt recently used for holding bitter ale. He wiped them with a not so white rag absent mindedly. He placed the mug onto a high stand carefully, and tried to remember the answer to the question.

“Tarlacha.” The large barkeep replied, after a few moments of well considered thought, recollecting the image in his head where he had gone for a business trip. He was currently

“Why do you ask?” The barkeep asked, as he turned to address Rosencrantz without some cleaning task to address. As he looked to where the sellsword was once was, the stool was empty, the leather padding on the stool reforming into a more natural state.

Rosencrantz was half-way out the door, his own glass with him, which had been swiftly drained. A swift, “Goodbye” was uttered as the sellsword departed to the place called Tarlacha. The barkeep watched as one of his better customers left. His coin spent on expensive wine had bought him a fair number of commodities.

Such a place held more promise than this small quiet village. More danger, more business opportunity, more need of one such as himself.

And more refined wine for cheaper prices.

Rosencrantz headed to the nearest stable.


So did Rosencrantz, the refined warrior of the ruling coin head to Tarlacha, four weeks from present occurrences…

Stephen walked away from the empty bus stop, leaving a sleeping, half-drained woman on the bench. She was his second victim tonight, and he felt much better. As he walked he heard something and turned to see the falcon he sent out ealier flying towards him. Stephen put up his arm and the falcon landed on it, the vampire removed the letter on it's leg and the bird flew off. Stephen read it and went back to his apartment.

He walked in, locked the door, and turned on his laptop. As it loaded, he got a duffel bag out and began packing. He put in several pairs of clean clothes and went back to his closet, he pulled out a key and put into a concealed hole. He turned the key and the wall moved to reveal a large safe. Stephen spun the dial, and opened his weapons locker.

Most of the firearms he had taken from Hondur's mansion in Assington before he left, or he had aquired them from located illegal arms dealers. He pulled out his 1796 sword, Wolf Knife, two Sig-Sauer P228, and a S&W model 28 revolver. Stephen was about to grab a Commando Tavor assault rifle, but put it back. The pistols would do. He took off his armpit holsters and put them along with all his other weapons in the duffel bag.

He went over to the laptop and checked on the most southern Tarlachian city.

"Rushing Waters Port....let me see.."

Stephen's fingers flew over the keyboard and he found out a flight was leaving in less than an hour to there. Stephen ordered a ticket, grabbed his duffel bag, and left his apartment. He quickly made it across the roof tops to the Golden Simatar International Airport. Stephen got his ticket and used his mind to make the woman at the metal dector suddenly flick it off, he walked right through, and no alarms sounded.

Rushing Waters Port

Stephen moved through the city, duffel bag over his shoulder. When he got to the outskirts, he saw the outline of a vast forest ahead of him. He put his armpit holsters back on, made sure the Paras were loaded, put his sword on his sword belt and ran.

The vampire ran for nearly an hour into the woods. His mind marked every spot he could use to hide if the sun came up before he found Sigrun. He slowed to a walk and looked at the forest around him, nothing. Stephen moved through the forest easily, avoiding obstructions a human would of blundered into.

Behind the swift moving vampire, an entire platoon of elves followed, either by foot or by branch. Their skill at remaining undetected even by the vampire was remarkable, and the fact that they were on their home turf only gave them the advantage even more.

Five hundred meters...close in, execute paremeters.

The silent alarm was sent forward to the inner sentinels, and they immediately began their tasks.

Two moved to either side of the path that the vampire was following...

Two moved up higher into the trees...

The platoon following the vampire drew their bows and closed their distance...

Suddenly, Stephen halted. Something was out there, and he could sense it. But he couldn't find it. He turned and spun in place, darting his eyes and extending his senses.

But found nothing, for they were masters at stealth...

A rare thing began to filter into Stephens mind. Fear.

He turned around once more, only to be suddenly faced with over two dozen arrowed notched and pointed at him. The remaining elves appeared out of their hiding places and added to the arsenal faced into Stephen's direction.

"Drop your weapons, moonwalker." commanded one who stepped forward but remained behind the bows.

They watched as he obliged and released his weapons to their possession.

"State your purpose in the Realm." the elf commanded, an elven sword in hand and held at Stephen's throat.

Stephen relaxed, slightly. He rolled his eyes and sighed, he didn't like the idea of having to hand his weapons over but he had no choice. He looked at the Elf he handed his Wolf Knife to.

"Hey, be careful with that...the last of it's kind."

One of only six combat knives like it made, this one had belonged to Stephen's Great-Uncle Kurt Malone. Stephen looked at the elves, then back at the leader of the group.

"Well, I'm Stephen Malone. And I am looking for a friend of mine, Sigrun Greenwood. I sent a message to him and got one back a few hours ago. To prove I am who I say I am I have...."

Stephen was reaching into the pocket of his trenchcoat when he heard the elves pull back thier arrows a little bit more. The vampire paused before slowly pulling out Sigrun's message from his pocket. He tossed it to the head Elf and watched him read it. Stephen meet his eyes as the Elf looked back at him.

"See? Can you order you lads to lower thier weapons and give me back mine? I mean no harm... at any rate I am slightly outnumbered."

"Your weapons will be returned to you when it is deemed safe to do so." the elf replied, slipping the scroll into a hidden pocket of his uniform. He continued,

"Do not resist or attempt to escape this realm. If you do so, I have full authority to have you eliminated, no matter who you may be."

Upon a small, hardly noticeable signal from the elf, the others immediately cast binding spells that bound Stephen's wrists and ankles. Stephen, caught unawares by the sudden move, collapsed and landed on the ground. A final spell was placed on Stephen's mind, casting him into unconsciousness as he was picked up by four sets of strong arms and hoisted to their shoulders. A fifth elf carried Stephen's weaponry with care. They carried him like this, following their commander. The remaining elves returned to their posts hidden throughout the forest.

For miles it seemed they traveled, following a hidden trail and entering through various invisible arcane walls. The moonlight shimmered peacefully through the foliage and boughs, reflecting off the metals of Stephen, now carried by the fifth elf.

"Berelan, What is this?" asked a voice as the escort carried Stephen to a detainment room. They set him down in the center of the room and stepped back. Moments later, vines snaked from various hidden locations and snaked themselves around the unconscious form's limbs and torso, holding him tightly in place. A guard was place at the entrance, watching the detained.

________________

"Sir, there's been an intruder in the southern sector. A moonwalker claiming to have entered on your good word. What shall you wish we do?"

Sigrun opened his eyes from his seat of meditation. He looked over at the messenger, and nodded, "A vampire you say? Take me to him."

Sigrun stood and followed the messenger, gathering his sword Lanta as he left his room. Minutes later, Sigrun passed through the sentried door and laid his eyes upon the unconscious form of Stephen. He stepped closer and lifted the man's chin.

"I know this one. Stephen...awaken!"

A light flash was seen around his head and soon Stephen grudgingly awoke to his command. His eyes looked at Sigrun, somewhat glossy-like. "Sigrun?"

"Yes. It is I. Guard, release him and return his items to him."

The guard complied, commanding the vines to untwist and retreat to the shadows of the room. He handed back Stephen his belongings with a slight bow.

Sigrun looked upon the face of his friend, his bearings already sharpened, and the drowsiness lifting quickly.

"It is good to see you my friend." Sigrun declared and smiled as he gave Stephen a brotherly hug, a custom that was rarely displayed by elves toward anyone but their own kind...

Before Stephen could protest the elf's actions, he felt his limbs suddenly not respond, fell on the ground. He opened his mouth to protest, before he could talk he blacked out. The next thing he remembered was seeing Sigrun and laying on the floor.

He stood, and was caught off guard again by Sigrun's hug. The vampire smiled at his friend and gave him a firm handshake.

"Good to see you again Sigrun."

Stephen put on his sword and put his Paras back into thier holsters. He turned back to the elf.

"Well, I got your message and came as soon as I could. I think the lycan is still in the Golden Simatar, so that is one bit of good news. What is this ceremony you spoke of in your letter?"

Sigrun looked at Stephen a little puzzled, "I did send invites to particular persons, including yourself. Nevertheless, I shall tell you now what the ceremony is going to be, and its importance according to some who recite the prophecy."

Sigrun beckoned for Stephen to walk with him as they talked. They passed through the elegant arched halls that seemed to vibrate with a sense of quiet, but strong power as the moonlight played upon their passing figures. Sigrun spoke softly, "Long ago, there was a prophecy, recited when the nation was young. Few ever believed it then, and few believe it now, including myself, if I may be so bold."

Sigrun stopped to look at Stephen, who had his attention drawn away by the sight of a pair of elven maidens crafting delicate items by the light of the moon. Their flowing blonde and dark brown hair framed their fair faces of high cheekbones and exquisite eyes to match, eyes that kindly watched Sigrun and Stephen pass on by. They smiled kindly toward Stephen. He returned the smile, and glanced at Sigrun. That's when he suddenly blushed.

Sigrun laughed, "Ah, I see you've caught the eye of some of our beautiful maidens. Their beauty is rather captivating, and can make one at loss for words."

Stephen looked back at the women, "Beautiful...yes..."

Stephen felt Sigrun's hand turn his shoulder and he grudgingly moved away.

"I have some issues however with the prophecy. If you recall, Arleni declared me as her king whom she'd follow no matter what, back in the last war in Emerald City. Then, I was completely taken aback, and couldn't believe what she said. So, I consulted the elders, and they confirmed what Arleni had declared..."

Sigrun led Stephen down a narrow path that wound itself through the forest. It seemed they had been walking a long distance already, the small elven city already lost in the green forest behind them. Soon, they saw the trail open up and veer off to run along a river, and down the slopes on one side of a massive waterfall. Sigrun paused at the brink of the highest part of the slope. The water careened and roared over the edge crashing into the river below before calming down and becoming a quiet flowing river in the distance. They could view the sky in its full beauty, the stars twinkling with a sense of excitement, as if they expected an amazing event to occur. In a way, one was going to occur, or so some thought...

Sigrun remained where he was, staring out at the stars as he listened to the waterfall raging yet strangely melodic roar. A distant memory flashed before his eyes as he listened...


(This was in 'Hidden Talents', a thread that primarily had Maximus learning his elven arcane abilities. Kain Shentavo was in this thread too, but not at the location described below)

Arleni stepped forward into the water, pulling Maximus in with her. They stood up to their waist in the water as she continued her lesson.

"Now, I'm going to show you a spell that will exhibit the waterfall doing an extraordinary thing."

Arleni released Maximus's grip, turned to the waterfall and held her hands out as she called out in a soothing melodic voice,

Yala onna en' alu...

Suddenly, the waterfall shifted its course, and began to pull closer to Arleni, who pulled it by invisible means with her hands, almost as if a rope held onto it. Once the waterfall reached her, she swung her hands about in a circle, to which the water immediately followed suit as it completely surrounded her body, creating a powerful wall about her. Arleni's voice was heard beyond the rushing of water, speaking softly, yet amazingly clear:

"Maximus, you will find that many spells have different uses, it is a result of the balance you are in when using magic. If you had sent a magical attack upon me, my shield of protection would have deflected and scattered it. The shield will disappear as I wish."

The wall of water suddenly ceased falling about her as the last couple of gallons fell to the surface of the water. Moments later the waterfall was back to its original course, flowing as if nothing had changed. Maximus received another shock as he looked at Arleni.

She was completely dry, except for the lower part of her body submerged underwater as well.

"Now, you see that tree above you with that branch overhanging the river?"

Maximus turned to look, before nodding his answer.

"Do you see the fruit hanging on it?"

Maximus nodded again.

"Bring me one, but only use magic. However, do not use magic to touch the fruit itself."

Maximus turned back quizzically to her. Arleni smiled gently.

"Go on, you can do it."

Maximus turned his attention back to the fruit as he pondered what he had to do. To use magic, but to not touch the fruit itself with magic...such an odd request...

Then it hit him. It was a rather simple idea really, but it would require his complete attention. In time, as he became more accustomed to the magic, he would become more versatile in its uses.

Maximus turned his attention downward to the waters coursing past him. Running his fingers along the surface, he began to 'see' what he wanted to happen in his mind. He spiraled slowly around as he suddenly heard himself speaking the Elvish again:

Yala onna en' alu..

Suddenly, the waters about him spiraled closer and closer, and Maximus found himself rising upwards, with a steady column of water underneath his feet, with him standing on top. Higher and higher it swirled until Maximus was in arm's reach of the fruit and he gently plucked it off its branch. Slowly the water receded below him, lowering him gently to the bed of the river once more.

Arleni smiled broadly as she accepted the fruit and took a bite of it.

"Very good, you may realize that the spell you used was the exact same one I used. Thus, it is my lesson to you on the versatility of magic."

Maximus smiled in response. He had enjoyed doing that spell very much.


Sigrun blinked as he brought himself back to the present day. He turned to Stephen speaking softly,

"I am the one they say is to be the King of Legend, a being who has fought the greatest of enemies of the known world, and survived. A being who many claimed to be indestructible, his strength beyond many. If you recall, I was indeed quite the one that they prophesied about. I was a moonwalker, a vampire, and yet I held the strength of elves in my blood as well. But, here's where I have broken the prophesy. I was killed not too long ago. Therefore, I was not invicible. I have never been keen on taking the role of a ruler before, but now, I feel my destiny pressing upon me. The elders have never been wrong about their prophecies before, why should they be now? They say that this Legendary King is meant to enter Tarlachia into a golden age like the world has never seen before..."

Sigrun looked over at the waterfall once more, "What are your thoughts?"

Hondur sat within a dark room, hidden amongst the corridors and halls of his mansion. The last year had been quiet as things started to get back to normal. The mess created by Stephen was still being cleaned up and whilst there was still an official investigation into the murder of the late President and Security Minister, it was unofficially accepted that they would never find the culprits and had given up.

Hondur didn't need the light to read the invitation within his hands. Written upon an odd parchment, the elaborate lettering requested the presence of Skadi at some sort of ceremony involving Sigrun. Hondur wasn't sure what this involved but he knew Skadi would not be attending.

Retrieving a piece of paper and pen from the draw of a large oak desk, Hondur began writing up a reply to Sigrun's request.

Sigrun,
I am sorry to inform you that Skadi will be unable to attend this ceremony. She is still healing from the wounds recieved almost a year ago and will be healing for some time longer. She has told me that she will sleep for many years on, even after she has healed. She needs rest and only she will determine when the time for an awakening comes.

I'm sure she regrets missing such an event, but little can be done about such.
Hondur.

Rolling up the paper, Hondur placed the letter within a durable looking cylinder and sealed the container. Removing his hand, he watched for a moment as it sat within the air, his mind's grasp keeping it airborn. Satisfied with the message, he waved the container through doorways and corridors until he finally sent it outside, into the morning sky.

Keeping firm hold upon the container, Hondur dragged forth with his mind, bringing the message all the way to Tarlachia. Over the years he had found his mental abilities had grown and enjoyed the chance to exercise them. It would take almost a day, but the message would reach the forest within Tarlachia and eventually find the eyes of Sigrun Greenwood.

As Stephen and Sigrun walked through the forest, the vampire's mind was on the two elven maidens he had seen a just before. He sat on a bolder, put his sword in his lap, and listened to Sigrun. Stephen thought for a bit, picked up a peeble and tossed it into the river.

"I can definatly recall you having elven powers when you were a vampire, didn't know they were elven powers till later..but I do remember you having them. When I was human, you a vampire, and we were enemies I did consider you invicible...then again, Simatarians are not familiar with vampires at all."

Stephen chuckled for a few seconds, remembering his inablity to deal out any true damage to Sigrun when he was a vampire. Stephen shrugged and tossed another pebble into the river.

"If you are this king that elders propheced about..then I guess you are. If you broke the prophesy.....you broke it, things happens. Even the best layed plans fall apart sometimes. I could give you dozens of examples from my army days where plans have gotten a knot in them but have turned out okay.....if not for the better. This could be one of those cases.

"If you are this king and decide to take power, I will support you. If you are this king and decide not to take power, I will support your choice. Whatever you decide to do Sigrun, I'll support you."

A man slowly strode into the forests of Tarlachia. Covered entirely by a heavy cloak and dressed entirely in black, in memory of his dead ancestor, the man was torn, the ivory grips of his swords glinting softly in the waning sun. As the man paused in a clearing, pausing to survey his surroundings, rose petals blown by the wind, descended from the trees. Glancing up at the falling flower petals, bright as that of blood, he raised his gloved right hand, catching the rose petal, as memories flooding back into his mind, memories of a beautiful childhood, shattered by loss. With a shake of his head, the man flung the rose petal to the floor and continued his journey.

He was Avto Crusade, great-great-grandson of Lance Crusade, a man torn between his legacy as the successor to the great swordmaster and his destiny as a man, very different from his powerful ancestor.

Avto paused once more in another clearing, his conflicting thoughts stopping him cold in his tracks, his eyes closing, as tears coursed down his face. He was growing weary of the expectations given to the successor of his great-great grandfather, Lance Crusade, his great-grandfather, Amistad Crusade, and his grandfather, Leto Crusade . . . The expectations were great, greater than he could ever handle, far beyond what he could possibly accomplish. Avto sighed heavily, the sound resonating through the great trees. As he quickly straightened, wiping away the tears from his face, Avto surveyed his surroundings, sure that he was being watched.

In a loud booming voice, Avto challenged those spying on him. "Come out whoever you are!"

When no one stepped out when the wind began to blow, Avto shivered, goosebumps raising all along his body. With a shake of his head to clear away the uncertainty that he felt, Avto leapt into the air, easily leaping onto the branches of the giant trees. He waited . . .

Well, this is one job that has failed, Rosencrantz thought, without too much care. If he was more of a professional, he would have continued through this forest deeper, following the path that his quarry had taken. The intense wood had been almost impossible to track through, and undeniably confusing to Rosencrantz, his mind didn't like the idea of being lost within this place.

He was not aware of the elven populance within this place, at least he was not aware of the intensity which they populated here. Rosencrantz was hot, sweaty and scraped from numerous whips from the long branches of the trees which choked this place. The human's brow was furrowed in a combination of frustation over the irritation this place brought to him, and the thoughts which rattled loudly in his head. Considering his next move, to head back and go around the forest, or continue onwards following the compass as best as he could.

His compass was as good as his nose in this place.

And Rosencrantz knew it, and that served only to make his movements faster and his mind sharper, his eyes narrowing. He was still suspecting his quarry to turn up. That knight should have been easy, Rosencrantz thought. His heavy armour should have made him prone in this place, but suprisingly, the fellow had moved with ease.

"Come out whoever you are!"

Hello, thought Rosencrantz with a wry smile. He drew his rapier slowly, the metal ringing lowly and satisfyingly from the scabbard. He headed towards the voice, the sellsword himself when he revealed himself, the knight would be done for, Rosencrantz thought. The knight was a challenge in combat, made his blood pulse and his wits tested. Such challenges were good.

Rosencrantz wore leather armour, strapped and buckled tightly around his chest and legs. The leather was dyed a very dark red, now marred with droplets of water from leaves brushing by, and mud where he had fallen and rolled during his very brief encounter with the knight. Rosencrantz himself was not strongly built, nor was he meek. His frame was average, his muscles being more adapted to quick movements and agile avoidance than sheer brutality. Such was Rosencrantz's fighting style, quick movements. The best defence was avoidance.

His eyes were a slate grey, as if the orbs had been carved from dark granite and fixed into this living statue. His eyes only summoned up life when high emotions flowed through him, and then, his eyes would break out into an ice blue. His face was well formed, a face of an aristocrate, and decieving due to it. The man seemed to have the manner of nobility around him, that way of talking and walking which seemed to indicate education. But the blade by his side and the armour on his chest spoke to indicate that educated does not necciserily mean helpless.

"I'm coming you bastard." Rosencrantz whispered as he crept forward towards the origin of the voice, nearing the individual was hardly his quarry.

The sun was already high in the sky, as the covers stirred, heralding first signs of life. A single hand appeared, testing the temperature, before the covers were thrown off, revealing the body of a young woman. Yawning, as she stretched, Elysa Moss opened her eyes upon a fresh new day. Turning over, she glanced towards the window, seeing instantly how light it appeared to be, a quick look at the clock confirmed her fears.

“Damn it.” Berating herself silently, she pulled herself up into a sitting position, running her hand through her dark brown hair agitatedly. Standing up, she quickly worked out whether she could make the class if she dressed quickly, skipped breakfast and ran all the way, then decided that missing one would not hurt. Not really thinking of much else, she got herself ready deciding that she might as well learn on the streets by watching and experiencing Elven life, rather than just reading about it.

Elysa had left Tartarus a few weeks ago, and had arrived in Tarlachia as an exchange student. The Empire had been looking for ways to integrate itself into the world, and sending its young to other nations to learn their culture was one of the paths it had undertaken. Elysa had always been interested in the Elvish culture, and had learnt as much as she could from books and programmes, but when this opportunity had opened up, she jumped at the chance to learn first hand.

Thirty minutes later, she stepped out of her room and made her way out into the world, not really sure where she was aiming for, just letting her feet lead her. She had a basic knowledge of her way around, not that she had spent too much time on discovering her surroundings, but today she would rectify this under sight. Heading off down the street, her eyes were flicking around her, partially checking out the scenery while at the same time looking for any familiar faces. Sightseeing was always more fun with someone else.

As she continued to wander aimlessly down the streets, she found herself some time later in an Elven market, the traders displaying wares that could belong to no other culture, there was something ethereal about Elves, which was one of the reasons she believed she had become so fascinated in them. Her eyes flicked from stall to stall, stopping every now and then when something caught her attention, picking up and examining the goods that were around her.

Breathing in deep, she caught the aroma of food, suddenly reminding her stomach that she had not eaten since the previous night. She wandered over to the stall, and took in another deep breath, almost as if just the smell could ease her hunger. She stood in front of the goods displayed so temptingly in front of her, trying to decide which of the delights she would choose.

She reached into her pocket for her money, and realised that she had none on her. Before she had left her room, she had forgotten to pick up her purse that she usually left lying on the table, having become engrossed in her trip. Letting out a long sigh, her stomach rumbling in sympathy, she stared longingly at the food before turning away, wondering whether to return back to her room, or continue with her studies and eat later.

A half dozen pairs of eyes watched the bellowing figure in the forest with some interest. A branch moved aside not too far behind the figure, revealing another one sneaking up on him. It was obvious there was a conflict, but the elves had no reason to enter the impending battle and react accordingly. For the time being, they would remain where they were, unseen, but ever watchful.
__________________________________

The figure walked down the street, his gait long and purposeful as he headed in the direction of the city's docks. Nearby he could hear the river waters rushing rapidly toward the bay, emptying with a flow that seemed to be relieved of the constrictions of the river banks.

As he walked along, his eyes caught sight of the lovely foreigner browsing the shops in the elven commerce row. He watched as she stopped by a food vendor and began to decide what she would eat.

A voice spoke behind the young girl as she sought for currency and failed. "Are you hungry, young one?"

The girl whipped around in surprise and came face to face with an older person. He wore an weathered attire consisting of green breeches and an equally green shirt. They were the green of evergreens, dark and yet simultaneously calming. His hair was auburn and long, falling loosely around his shoulders. His eyes, she saw, were light blue and kindly toward her.

He turned to the vendor and spoke a few quick words in a language she didn't immediately recognize. The vendor, a young elven woman who appeared to be equal to that of a twenty five year old, replied her understanding and held her hand out for the girl to choose anything she wished.

"Go on, lass. You have been gifted to anything of your choice by the one standing next to you." she beckoned.

Looking first at the elvish woman who spoke, and then to the man beside her, Elysa shook her head and blushed slightly. “Oh, no…really, there is no need.” They think I’m a beggar. She stammered and thought at the same time, feeling the heat radiating from her face. “I mean…it is very kind of you, but I have money…it’s just, I’ve left it back in my room.”

She stopped for a moment to catch her breath, hoping they did not now think she was mad too. Thinking over her reaction, she sighed heavily, wondering if she had insulted the kindness of the two people who were trying to give her aid. “Perhaps you would permit me to come back and pay for whatever I take?” She looked again between the man and the woman, as she wished the ground would open up and swallow her.

Finally finding the manners that her parents had tried to instil in her, she gave them both a nervous smile. “Thank you, for your kindness.” She ran her fingers through her hair, a trait she had picked up whenever she was agitated. “I’m…I’m very grateful.”

The elf looked down at the young girl.

"No no, dear child. It was my pleasure to gift you so, money in your pocket or not."

The elven male glanced up to the elven woman and nodded as he tossed her a small leather satchel of elfstones. She caught it and pocketed it. The elf male turned back to the girl and smiled kindly,

"Please, take what you wish, consider it a friendly gift."

The girl reluctantly looked up at him, then at the elven woman before finally looking at the food. She finally gave in, allowing herself to pick a few of the fruits and breads that sat on the display. She only allowed herself a few of the items though. She turned to see the elven man also take a few of the items and put them into his satchel that sat on his back. She noted that he carried and elven sword on his backside as well, the handle quite equisite, yet plain at the same time.

The elven man beckoned for her to accompany him as he strode down the street. "My name is Elean. I live about a fortnight from here, to the northeast. What about you?"

Thanking the Elven woman before turning, Elysa fell into step beside the man, as she took a bite out of one of the fruits. She chewed hungrily as he spoke, wanting to quell the growing rumble coming from her stomach. Swallowing quickly, she looked at him as he asked his question. “I’m Elysabeth Moss.” She grimaced as she gave her full name. “But my friends call me Elysa.”

She took another bite quickly, trying to satisfy her hunger as rapidly as possible. “I come from Tartarus, here on a student exchange.” She shook her head, realising how dull this all sounded to her own ears. “I’m here to study various cultures.” She gave him a smile before biting off another piece of fruit, this time savouring the flavour.

“I really appreciate what you did back there.” Looking back over her life, she could not recall a complete stranger ever buying her food before, still there was a first time for everything.

Eleán smiled once more at the young woman walking next to him. He raised an eyebrow as she told of her exchange program. So, the system was working. He had heard from several of the men in the city talking about the program and how they had planned to begin it. That was about a year ago, he realized. Long enough to get it up and running at full speed.

"Cultures you say? Well, if I may be allowed to boast a little..." he stole a sly glance at her. Elysa giggled slightly, "Of course, Eleán."

"Tarlachia is a land of culture, where nearly ten cultures merge together and live harmoniously with each other..." he paused, "Except for the various wars and struggles this nation has undergone in the past...but that's beside the point. Despite all this, the people of Tarlachia have done what few others have been able to do. Draconians, Elves, Men of three Cultures, and even the Moonwalkers have learned to live in some way that has little negative consquences on the other cultures, if at all."

He stopped in front of a jewelery vendor who was touting a vast array of elven jewelery and admired them.

"Ah Eleán! You have returned from your expedition!" cried the vendor in a deep but soft voice, "and who's the lovely lady next to you?" He didn't give them time to respond, "Allow me to introduce myself, young lady. I am Anleas exclusive vendor of elven jeweled craft in this fair city!" Anleas bowed slightly.

Eleán shook his head slightly and smiled, "Anleas, this is Elysa, an exchange student of Tartarus, here to study the cultures of our fine nation!"

Anleas raised a respectful eyebrow, "Ah, an educated one. I do love talking of foreign events and cultures. Tell me, Elysa, what do you find most fascinating about Tarlachia?"

Glancing briefly at the wares on offer, Elysa lifted her eyes to those of the vendor and smiled, trying to give herself some time to think of an answer. Although she had been in Tarlachia for a few weeks, she had not had the opportunity to experience as much of the nation as she would have liked to. “To be honest, what interests me most of all about Tarlachia is just what Eleán had been discussing with me on my way here.” She turned to the man beside her and smiled.

“Tartarus has its culture, but is has never been one to allow diversity inside its borders. The concept of a multi-racial community would probably be unacceptable to most – if not all – Tartarians, just because they are unused to it.” She blushed for the second time that day, as she rambled on. “But here, like Eleán explained, there are many different people living and sharing the same nation in relative harmony. Although, I have to admit that my knowledge of each of the races is somewhat limited.”

Lowering her eyes, she gave herself a moment, as she once again admired the jewellery on display. “For instance…” She once more met the gaze of Anleas, a smile once more returning to her lips. “Humans and elves I know about, but say…Moonwalkers…” She frowned slightly. “Those I would have to guess at.”

Eleán looked down at Elysa with a solemn look. He sighed slightly. Although the moonwalkers were considered citizens of the nation, he had never trusted them, never gone near them. Why? It was simple.

"Elysa, are you aware of the existence of vampires?" he asked quietly as he nodded his farewell to Anleas. They began to walk away from the vendor.

Elysa looked up at him before returning her gaze to the cobblestone path before them. "I know what they are...but I thought they were myths?"

Eleán chuckled slightly, "Hardly. Here in Tarlachia, vampires are called moonwalkers, for obvious reasons."

Elysa let out a slight, "Oh. I understand now."

Eleán continued to walk a bit, before he suddenly stopped and turned to her. "I have a proposition for you. You're an exchange student here to study cultures. How would you like to get a first hand look into my own?"

OOC: This is already the next day, beginning with Gehenna's first post.
IC:

The small item flew swiftly through the sky, just above the surface of the ocean. In the distance lay the Port of Rushing Waters. As it flew along, the item suddenly was attacked by an unlikely creature.

The dolphin had clenched onto the cylinder, but instead of dragging it's mistaken toy back into the depths of the ocean, it found itself being hurled along just above the surface of the water. Startled by the unseen strength of the cylinder, it released its grip and fell back into the ocean.

The cylinder continued on, never slowing its advancement toward the shores of Tarlachia. It raised in altitude several more feet as it began to follow the upward slopes from the docks. It dodged the heads of a few passerbys and zipped past an elf and a young girl standing on the edge of the town. It suddenly arched upward into the sky and continued further inland.

Sigrun was eating his breakfast, consisting of fruits and other elven delicacies as he studied the surrounding forest. A small sparrow floated close and landed on the ground near him, looking up at him expectantly. Sigrun turned his attention away from the morning sunrise and looked at the sparrow. He smiled as he tossed a piece of his lembas to the bird. It hungrily gobbled it up. It looked back to him once more, but suddenly was scared off by a shadow passing overhead.

Sigrun looked up quickly and snatched the cylinder from it's hovering flight before him. He opened it and read the letter inside. It was Hondur's handwriting. He summoned a featherpen and parchment before him and wrote his reply. The cylinder hovered in flight still, waiting...

Finally, he finished it and gave the cylinder it's new message to be returned to Hondur.

"Back to Hondur you go." he commanded the cylinder, giving it his own elven spell of propelling speed to return it so.

Once the cylinder had reached the elf, Hondur released his grasp upon it. It was still a reasonable effort to extend his mind over such a distance for such a long time, but at least the message had arrived. Now he merely waited. The elf would be able to send a reply much faster than he could have returned the cylinder to his mansion.

Hours later Hondur was awoken from his doze by the sound of his message cylinder landing firmly upon his desk. Quickly opening the container, the vampire went through the letter and almost fell out of his seat in surprise. Sigrun had invited him to attend this ceremony in Skadi's place. It was known by many that Hondur and Maximus/Sigrun had clashed heads more than once and weren't exactly the best of buddies. Although recently the pair had come to respect eachother and forget about their violent past. Still, this came as a shock. It seemed Sigrun was willing to become friends with Hondur.

Grinning slightly, Hondur stood and grabbed his blade. He had never been to Tarlachia before and thought it may prove to be an interesting experience. Strapping the scabbard to his belt, the vampire made his way through the halls and doors until he finally stepped out into the darkness of post dusk. If he concentrated, he would be able to fly to Tarlachia and just have enough time to seek shelter from the sunlight, even if he had to burry himself.

Taking one last glance at his mansion, Hondur ascended into the night sky of Emerald and shot forth towards Tarlachia.

Stephen and Sigrun had talked through the night until the sun began to rise. Stephen had not noticed it and quickly rushed inside as the first rays of the sun came over the horizon. Sigrun showed him a room where he could rest during the day and left to attend to other matters.

Stephen put his bag on a table and made a quick search of the room, making sure that the sun could not get into the room. With the room now perfectly dark, Stephen sat down at the table and calmly cleaned each of his weapons for an hour before undressing and climbing into bed.

Stephen lay there for several minutes before falling asleep.

Elysa, having begun to look around at the various stalls as she listened to Eleán, almost walked into him as he stopped and looked at her. She took a step back, and smiled as his words filtered into her head. “Really? I mean…that would be wonderful.” A big smile spread over her face, before it vanished, as a questioning look spread over her features. “As long as I’m not putting you to any trouble…?” The smile reappeared. “I would love to accept your offer.”

She had barely finished speaking when something flashed over her head, causing her to flinch with surprise. She turned quickly to see what had passed them. “What was that?” Searching the sky, her hand shielding her eyes from the sun, she sighed as she realised her effort was futile. “Please tell me that wasn’t some giant bug or something?” She was not sure she could handle hearing the place had those after being told that vampires roamed Tarlachia. A smile climbed back onto her lips as she dismissed both thoughts.

After spending hours waiting for his pursuers to appear in the clearing, Avto Crusade fell asleep on the branch, weary from the long days of travelling. However, his sleeping was fitful, broken by a string of short nightmares that drove Avto into horrendous memories of his past, torturous thoughts that forced Avto into terrible confrontations with things best left forgotten.

When sun began to rise, Avto awoke, startled out of another nightmare, screaming. With a start, Avto tumbled off of his position atop the branch of the great tree, crashing into the undergrowth below. As he rose from the ground, covered partially with leaves, Avto winced in pain, as he felt his entire body for injuries.

With a heavy sigh, Avto straightened, stretching his muscles and limbs. Swiftly tying his twin blades to his back, Avto continued walking, moving towards the elven city and a meeting with an elf that had befriended his ancestor.

As he travelled, Avto felt apprehensive, the wheels of his prodigious mind turning as he sorted out the events that had shaped his life and the destiny that he was to create and fulfill. Avto felt terrible, weighed down by his expectations and challenged interminably.

With the newfound light, Avto's features were now clear. His face was handsome, a true scion of the House of Cala, the royal house of the Crusade family. Framed by his aquiline features, the pair of sapphire eyes were piercing and disconcerting. Wrapped around in dark clothes that had symbolized the determination of Crusade family, Avto was truly in the image of his great ancestor, Lance Crusade . . .

Eleán smiled, "No, we don't have bugs here...not ones big enough to send large shadows like that. That was something else...but it was moving too fast for me to catch its sight."

And it's headed toward the Realm. I hope it's nothing serious... he thought to himself, furrowing his forehead.

"We can leave anytime you wish for this little expedition of yours."

__________________________

The multiple eyes watched Avto continue along his path. They noted he didn't deter from his path inward within the forest. He was getting too close for comfort. The signal was sent, unseen by Avto.

As Avto walked along, his eyes momentarily on the ground to watch his footing, a half dozen figures stepped into view in front of him.

Avto's eyes looked up and beheld the six elves standing there, weapons still sheathed, but they were ready to pull them should the necessity arise.

"Speak your purpose in this Realm, stranger!" asked one of the elves who looked Avto in the eyes.

At the same time Eric was struggling through the keep so he could get to the conference. It could be his last chance to assasinate Sigrun. A squad of elven men had assembled and were trying to negotiate.
"Hello there...."
Eric quickly remembered an elve he had killed and told the men his name.
"The names Trauan Smoke."
"Sounds reasonalbe what were you doing this far out near the border?'
"Was waiting for a shipment of wine."
"Thats illegal your going to jail"
"Not if I can help it."
He morphed into werewolf and started to take them on. They were all very suprised except the captain who had already loaded his gun. The reason Trauan Smoke was his nephew and he knew he had been killed years ago. The captain shot him in the side and took him down. Eric only had the power to do one last thing he would have to howl for help. He howled as load as he could saying "King Werr needs to send over the whole army to Tarlachian soil." He heard another wolf in the night and had the relief that they would not lose the Tarlachian campain although he might die unless the captain speared his life. And the captain did. Lucky him.

A day later his message had reached King Werr and all of the forces of The Corps would be there. The Wolfs,The Gaints, and The few sorcerers they had

Within that night Hondur had made it to Tarlachia. It had taken quite an effort to move so quickly and he was exhausted from the strain, but now was not the time to rest. Standing just outside a market, Hondur realised that due to timezone differences he still had many hours of night left but he still wanted to make it to safety in a hurry. The vampire was in a foreign nation he knew nothing about, save that he would find refuge with Sigrun and hopefully the other elves.

Although in a hurry, the vampire decided it wasn't necessary to move at super human speeds, that would just draw attention. Rushing into the crowd, Hondur dodged and weaved through the mass of people, mostly elven but a few humans as well. The sights and smells were quite new to him and he tried not to get distracted by the aroma's of what he assume to be elven foods, especially since he no longer ate food. He would probably need to feed, but he was at the age where he could put it off for a while.

Continuing his rush, Hondur was momentarily distracted by the blur of another vampire in the corner of his eye and didn't noticed his path was taking him directly into a pair strolling down the street. The force of Hondur's body would have knocked Elysa to the ground if it wasn't for his quick reaction and superior speed, stepping around the girl and catching her before she fell.

Standing before the pair, Hondur bowed his head and spoke, slightly showing his fangs. Although his extremely pale form and movements would have been more of an indication that he was of a vampiric nature, the fangs confirmed it.

"I am sorry for that young lady. I am in a hurry."

Hondur turned, about to continue his path toward the elven occupied forest.

Avto Crusade extended his arms, palms open, to show that he was not there to quarrel or to fight. Quickly, he bowed, his two arms crosses across his shoulder as he greeted the elves. "Ish inu Alah, Master Elf. There is no need to challenge a wayward wanderer."

As he straightened, Avto identified himself. "My name is Avto Crusade. I am here to meet Maximus Destroi, resurrected as Sigrun, a friend of my supreme ancestor. If you would be so kind to lead me to him, I would be grateful."

Avto once more bowed again, shifting into a barely discernable combat stance, as he prepared to draw his swords. In a quiet voice he continued. "I do not wish to fight, but if I must, I will. Lead me to Sigrun and everything will be alright."

The elf looked into Avto's eyes carefully and finally spoke after a few moments of silence.

"A wayward wanderer does not travel a straight path without a destination. If you wish to speak to Sigrun, I will have to ask you to hand over your weapons until it is deemed by him safe to return to you..."

OOC: Drake Verdon, where exactly are you? If you're in Tarlachia, then I'd like to be the one RPing the elves. Also...not to be a pest, but I'd like to see this thread be consistent with good quality posts...think you could up your effort a bit? Thanks.

Sorry Tarlachia guess Im on the boarder and Ill try harder.

Looking more than a little relieved at Eleán’s words, Elysa smiled. “No time like the present, as my mother used to say. I’m ready to go now.” She could not get over how lucky this day had turned out, considering the very bad start. Perhaps it was Fate that she had slept through the alarm this morning. “I cannot tell you how grateful to you I am, for giving me this opportunity.”

Just then she was practically knocked off her feet as someone run into her. How she did not land on the floor she did not know. Unsure what had happened, she was startled to find a man standing the other side of her, apparently the one that had bumped her. “It’s…um…ah.” She stammered at his apology as she looked into his face, her gaze lingering on his teeth, which seemed rather…

Shaking her head, she laughed nervously at herself for the thought that she was having. Her mind hanging on to the conversation about Nightwalkers or vampires she had just had with the Elf. Pull yourself together, Elysa.

She looked between the man and Eleán, wondering what else was going to happen to her. So far, the day was becoming slightly surreal, with the kind offer, the object that had buzzed over her head and now a man that reminded her of a vampire. “Is Tarlachia always this…exciting?” She asked her companion, her eyes looking at him questioningly.

Avto laughed, a sharp, cutting sound that sliced easily through the tension, as his eyes hardened with ill-concealed anger and annoyance. In a hard, grave voice, Avto replied to the elf's demands. "That is impossible. For these swords are ancestral weapons handed down from my supreme ancestor, the great swordmaster, Lance Crusade. There is no way I can allow them into the hands of another, unless it was one that my ancestor trusted. You, Master Elf, is not one of these people. Bring me to Sigrun or allow me to pass to find him myself. Or else, you will find that members of the House of Cala do not all possess infinite patience and calm . . ."

OOC: Alright, this is the starting post for Zero and Aeris. Tarlachia will take them from here.

IC: In a meadow in the island-continent nation of Atros

Two figures stood face-to-face with each other in the middle of the green grass, their palms touching the others'. One, a masculine figure with jet-black flowing hair, wore black from head to toe, a black so deep it sucked in all the light, and his skin was deadly pale, as if he was already dead. The other was a blonde feminine figure, dressed in the purest of white that would light up the world, her billowing gown displaying immense poise. The wind blew through their clothes, playing with their hair.

But what was intriguing, was that the wind originated from a point between them, exactly where their palms met.

As they stood there, palms touching, pure energy blew out from them like an explosion, causing an outward wind to ruffle the grass of the meadow. The pure energy fanning outward and backward from the black masculine figure was the darkest of ebony, while the energy fanning outward from the white feminine figure was the purest of light. Polar opposites, meeting and repelling each other, an eternal battle of light and darkness, playing out between these two figures now.

Then, it abruptly stopped. The energy dissipated, and the figures put down their hands. As they did so, their entire image shifted, and changed. The man's clothes lost all sense of power, and became merely a fashionable dress code of black leather all over, while the woman's billowing white gown lost cohesion, and eventually shifted back into what it was, a simple peasant dress.

"You are improving, my love."

________________________________________________________________

Those were the words of Zero, whose real given name is Raphael Celadrin. A vampire, an Ancient of the blood order of the Nobles, one of the few left in the world of his kind. And yet he was standing in the sunlight.

It was not always so. Just a year before, Zero had to stay away from the light just like his counterparts. Just a year before, the woman in front of him, Aeris Celadrin, was just any other 15-year-old girl, with only a talent for Elven magic to hint that she was more than even she knew.

It was their trials back in the nation of Tarlachia a year ago, that changed their lives drastically from what it was, to what it is now. That one year ago, Zero, a celebrated war hero in his home nation of Atros, had come to Emerald City, Assington, to fulfil a mission under his King's orders. There, he had found a poor starving mortal girl, and fell hopelessly in love with her. Saving her where before he would have killed to ease her suffering, the girl recuperated under the vampire's care, and slowly, she blossomed into the girl she could be. That girl was Aeris.

But it was what happened after the Battle for Emerald City, as Zero termed it, that the real surprises came. Under a great trial, where Zero and Aeris had joined the seraphim Liam Celadrin and others to form the Celadrin Clan, the immortal killer and the mortal girl fought against the greatest evil in the world, Lucifer Morningstar. It was in this trial, where Aeris had discovered the extent of her secret legacy.

Under great pressure, Aeris broke through unknown barriers, and unlocked a secret even she was not privy to. In that moment, she had become the Nephilim Aerial, an angelic being whose power was derived from that of Heaven itself, as was Liam Celadrin's, and her coming into her own became a great help in finally ending the nefarious schemes of Lucifer Morningstar. However, her blossoming did not answer all questions, most important of which was: How did she come by her powers, being a mere mortal and all? Liam Celadrin, the leader of the Clan, could not answer the question in full, for despite what had happened, everyone could sense that Aeris has not, as yet, blossomed fully, and there was yet a greater secret to unlock. All Liam could deduce was that Aeris was a newly-born Nephilim, not yet ascended into Heaven for some reason, and with mortal blood in her veins as well as that of Nephilim. Of what kind, was not known.

Despite all the questions, Heaven was grateful to the Celadrin Clan for assistance rendered in the effort against Lucifer. But great appreciation in particular was lavished by the angels upon Zero, for his discovery of one of their own. Because of this, Zero was christened at last with the name of Raphael Celadrin, as well as blessed with the ability to stay in sunlight unharmed, allowing him to see the sunlight for the first time in all his 1717 years. But with that gift, also came a great responsibility; Zero was now gifted with the task of digging out the true secret of Aeris' past, a question that even the angels could not answer.

With that, Zero and Aeris retreated back to Zero's homeland of Atros, there to train her new-found legacy, and perhaps one day, to set out in the quest for Aeris' past. And there they stayed for a year.......to this day.

_________________________________________________________________

"I have yet much to learn about myself, Master Raphael", the blonde woman answered cheekily, running to him with the bounce of youth, and hugging him tightly, resting her head on his shoulder. There they stood for a while, before Zero spoke again.

"Now, now, Aeris, no more 'Master Raphael' now, didn't I say so?", he admonished, with a grin on his face. At that, Aeris broke away, giggled at him, and started whirling about, her hands swinging around, as she laughed cheerily. Despite her trials, despite her discovery of her angelic legacy, Aeris remained at heart a teenage girl, full of zest for life. Her zest filled the emptiness in Zero's heart, an emptiness that had eaten at his heart for so many years. With a smile, Zero followed her as she kept spinning away.

Finally, as Zero predicted she would, Aeris lost her footing, and fell on the soft grass. Turning to face upwards, Aeris giggled again as she saw the visage of Zero look at her with a quizzical look. "All right then, Master Zero", she teased, and then started giggling again.

Now Zero was perplexed. What could have made her so happy? He decided to be direct. "Aeris......why are you so happy today? I can barely keep up with your joy today!"

At that, Aeris stopped giggling, although her face was still plastered with a wide grin. Picking herself up, she brushed herself off, before facing Zero with that sunshine grin again. Just as directly, she stated, "I don't know."

Then, she started running away, somehow able to be carefree in a careworn world. As she ran, she shouted out at the top of her lungs, "It's just the day today! It's so nice, so beautiful, so alive! It feels just like Master Sigrun, for some reason!" She stopped, and turned back to Zero. "Don't you feel it, Master Zero? The day is saying that there is much more to learn about life soon! I can't wait! Don't you feel it?"

She didn't wait for an answer, running away and giggling again, back to the cottage they shared. Thus, she didn't realize that Zero was not following her. He was rooted to the spot, and his eyes were glazed. He mumbled.

"I feel it too."

He paused, then,

"I feel it too. In the air, in the grass, in the water. Everything just seems of the Elves today. It's just too.......prefect. I feel it in the air. I feel it in the sky. I feel it in you, Aeris. Today. What could it all mean?"

Slowly, he mumbled to himself, confused. But his reveries was interrupted by Aeris' shout, "Hey, Master Zero! What are you waiting for? Come on?"

Pushing all these thoughts out of his mind, Zero beamed again, and started to run after Aeris..........

OOC: Assington, you're traveling in daylight... I'll take care of that little issue for you...

Hondur was seen rushing into the forest, fleeing from the impending dawn to his left. He spied a tree and noted the apparent cavernous interior. He could feel his skin beginning to smolder under the threat of the rising fire in the east. He dove toward the tree, squeezed himself through the somewhat narrow opening and slipped off his trenchcoat, dropping it down to block the sunlight coming in from underneath him.

This will have to do... he thought to himself, briefly thinking back to the young girl and elf he had run into earlier... He closed his eyes and began to sleep the hours away...
_________________________________

The elf studied Avto quietly for a few more moments.

"We cannot let you enter the realm without disarment. If you wish, you may send an item or some other artifact that will be known to Sigrun of who you claim to be..."
_________________________________

"Sir."

Sigrun turned to the female elf standing in the doorway, "Yes?"

"There have been reports of numerous foreigners moving within the city, and are headed toward the wall."

Sigrun nodded understandingly, "Let them through but keep an eye on them. Send me word of who each of them are as soon as you find out."

"Yes sir."

Just then, another figure tapped the shoulder of the female, to which she immediately stepped forward and to the side, allowing the newcomer entrance.

Sigrun looked up at the being. He smiled lightly, "Ah, good. You've arrived."

Arleni nodded and remained silent.

"I've been meaning to ask you about the trials that the council has said that a ruler must pass. What about those?"

Arleni nodded once more and spoke, "They're a series of tests that will extend your abilities to the farthest capabilities than you can imagine. You will be subjected and presented to a variety of different foes and issues. How you solve the situations will determine your success..."

"What of these foes you speak of?"

"They are never the same between any number of rulers. Thus, it is truly a test of pure skill and heart. You cannot prepare, you cannot do anything to become better, for you will never know what you're up against until you're in combat."

"What?!"
_______________________

Eleán smiled, "As you wish, Elysa. Let's get going then..."

He led her out of the port and toward the dark green patch of woods to the north. She would get quite the taste of his culture, his people before the day was done...

Stepping out of the town, Elysa instantly found the looming forest peaceful and tranquil, away from the bustle of people in the market. For a moment she thought about where she would have been had she woken in time to make her class, and knew whatever it was, it could not compete with where she was now.

As she focused back on her surroundings and her companion, she suddenly wondered why she felt so comfortable in the company of a stranger. All through her childhood her mother had warned her of the folly of speaking to strangers, and yet here she was, walking into the unknown with one. No one knew where she was, and would never find her if something happened to her, but despite all her teachings, she felt oddly safe.

Losing the thought from her mind, as she looked about her, she flicked her eyes over various objects along her path, having so many questions that she wanted to ask, while at the same time not wanting to disturb the peace with her voice. Instead she stored as much away as she could, deciding to approach Eleán about them at another time.

Walking along, she pulled out another piece of fruit that she had been gifted back at the market, and began to absentmindedly munch on it, as she entered into the wood, shivering slightly with anticipation as she wondered just where the Elf would lead her to.

Avto Crusade frowned, his brow furrowing, as he pondered the elf’s request. Quietly, Avto shook his head in mirth at the elf’s request. With a slight movement of his right hand, a sword erupted from the twin sheathes on Avto’s back, flying into the air. As it arched through the air, its blade flashing brightly in the sun, Avto leapt into the air, catching the blade reverently. With a swift movement, Avto landed on the ground and extended his hands, holding the sword in his hand.

The blade was golden, like the morning sun, its hilt made of finely crafted ivory. It was a beautiful blade, the result of workmanship of a long bygone age. In a quiet voice Avto spoke. “This sword is the Sword of Cala. Give it to Sigrun and he will understand . . .”

The elf bowed slightly as he accepted the obviously coveted sword of the stranger and proceeded to wrap it in an elven cloth.

"As you wish. Remain here, and word shall be sent upon delivery to Sigrun."

The elf turned and departed into the woods, disappearing quickly.

The remaining elves all began to take up their places near Avto, knowing that it would be a little while before word would be sent.

"Relax, stranger. It will be a little bit before word is sent."

____________________________

Thirty three minutes later...

Elves came to a halt as they eyed the captain sentinel striding quickly up the path toward the largest talan. They eyed the item he carried, but could not discern the contents wrapped in the cloth. The captain ignored them, keeping to his path.

Soon, he was atop the talan, and facing Sigrun minutes later.

"Ereal, what brings you here?" Sigrun asked as he silenced Arleni for a moment with an open palmed hand.

"Sir, a stranger has appeared, a warrior carrying this. He claims to be a descendant of some man whom you know. He claims to know you, but he has refused to part with his weapons."

Ereal pulled back the cloth, revealing the hilt of the sword. Sigrun stood quickly as he recognized the sword. Arleni made a similar movement of surprise as she saw the weapon. Both had seen it before.

"Lance Crusade." she whispered. Sigrun turned his head to her in slight surprise.

"You know him?"

"Yes. I met him a while back while on my travels. He led me to the Circle of Swords, some dedication site to his foes, or something of the like."

Sigrun narrowed his eyes as he viewed the sword once again.

"It's not Lance. I accompanied him a while back on his last mission. He is dead now. As far as I know, Lance has no descendants... Which means that someone has stolen his weapons. Take me to this person."

((OOC: Assuming that Lance is "dying" at the end in 'Passing of the Torch', which takes place just before this thread))

Elreal nodded in compliance and turned to lead Sigrun and Arleni to Avto. Within another thirty minutes the two parted the last of the branches that led to the clearing where Avto was held.

Sigrun eyed the stranger carefully, noting his clothing was similar to the ones Lance used to wear. A complete illusionist. He shall be punished for his dishonor of my friend...

"Speak your true identity stranger. Tell me how you came to possess this." he commanded, holding up the Sword of Cala in his hand. Arleni spoke after this.

"You are not Lance Crusade, so I suggest you speak the truth, lest you be killed on the spot."

_______________

Eleán led Elysa several miles from where Avto and the others were. He noted a light presence of the sentinels. Something's happening... he thought to himself. He pushed the thought to the back of his mind, but increased his attention to the surroundings.

Elysa of course was preoccupied with her own thoughts.

Soon, the elf could hear the songs of elf maidens as they worked in a field that didn't appear to make such a...signature on the land as men made theirs. It almost appeared that there were no field, except for the rows of crops that sprung between the trunks of the strong trees. Their words were in the elven tongue, singing of harvests and life, and peace. They were soothing songs, sung with voices rarely heard by men, voices that were almost as captivating as that of sirens. There was a difference though. The elves never had a sole mission of luring innocents to their deaths. Such was not their way of life. Such was not their way of war, when it made itself a horrid guest in their lives.

Eleán nodded to the elven maidens as they worked their fields, collecting the harvests. They waved in response, both to him and to his fellow traveler. They were truly beautiful, golden or brown hair and fair faces of eternity mounted upon slender figures dressed in elven cloths. Their hair was tied back in elegant, yet simple braids that flowed down their backs, enhancing their eternal youth.

Soon, Elysa could see that Eleán was leading her to a particular tree, one that held a set of spiral stairs that spun upward around its bases toward talans. She could see that a number of other trees held similar stairs, but one stood out from the rest. It was more elegant, as if it were that of a ruler. Upward they traveled, allowing her multiple times to view the other trees, and seeing elves traveling their stairs as well. She looked down to see the steps appeared shaped as leaves, but broad enough to accompany footsteps. The rails were vines, strong, sturdy and connected to an arch that curved gracefully over their heads, connecting to the tree as well. It almost seemed that the stairs were a natural growth of the tree.

Eleán finally reached the top of the stairs, taking his first step upon the commune talan, a large talan that was held up by branches from several trees hundreds of feet above the ground The sunlight could be seen more clearly through the canopy, much closer than before.. He stepped aside and waited for Elysa to get her first view of the elven city which bustled with the activities of its inhabitants.

Several of the elven children; appearing roughly the age of human children of ten years old; ran past, heading toward a single elven male that sat upon a box and was holding a falcon on his shoulder. The bird screeched lightly to the children, recieving cries in the elven tongue for the message to be read to them. Elysa's study of the Elven tongues helped her understand their dialects, although they held their own accents.

"Master Boreal, what news come from Gaialan?" asked the children. The elder elf smiled as he replied, "There have been reports of many arriving from the west for the ceremony. Strangers from faraway lands of strange peoples. This inauguration may be the largest the people of Tarlachia have ever seen!"

"Wow! What do the strangers look like Master?"

"Some are dragons; cousins of the ones in the northern mountains. Some are of races never seen by our kind. It is strange to see that this Sigrun Greenwood has met many species unlike that of men or elves. It can be safely said that he has become quite knowledgeable of the outside world. It makes me even want to go visit these foreign lands just to see for myself! But then again, I am getting old, even for an elf. I cannot leave my beloved home here."

"Why would you want to leave in the first place? Our realm has everything we could ask for!"

"Except the experience of worldly knowledge and life. Yes, we have what we need, and take no more than that, but there is an exotic sense of appreciation for the outside world. Enough now, back to your duties!"

The children ran off, talking amongst themselves, "I'm going to be a diplomat."

"Yeah? Well, I'm going to be a warrior. Those swords look like fun!"

"So? I'm going to be a trader. Then I can see what other races offer!"

Their voices faded in the distance as they continued to chatter amongst themselves. Eleán smiled as they departed. His people brought him life within his heart, especially the children.

Eleán looked suddenly to the eastern end of the talan, where a small group of elven muscians began to play their pieces, bringing a harmonious sound of music to the ears. Voices began to rise from the elves, as they joined together in song, yet did not deter from their daily activities.

Eleán began to sing quietly to himself the song of life that was being sung. Yet, he kept his eye on Elysa as she watched all this. He smiled at her wondering gaze...

(OOC: Tarlachia, your assumption is correct, Lance Crusade is supposed to die at the end of the Passing of the Torch...)

Avto Crusade bowed reverently, his arms crossing over his chest as he greeted Sigrun and Arleni. In a quiet voice, Avto spoke up, replying to Sigrun's piercing questions. "Lance Crusade and Amistad Crusade are really my ancestors. The line of the swordmasters lives on in my veins."

Avto paused, as he attempted to clarify the confusing lineage of the House of Cala. "Amistad had a child with a woman he loved before he was killed in battle . . . His name was Leto Crusade who lived but briefly, killed in the turmoils that gripped the land. He was a great fighter and had many friends. His legend, alas, lives on only in the far east . . . He was my grandfather. My father was a common farmer, who reverently kept the swords but could not live up to the honor and glory of his forefathers . . ."

Once more, Avto paused, as he recounted his history. "I am the sole heir of the House of Cala. My name is Avto Crusade, great-great-grandson of Lance Crusade, the vaunted swordmaster who traversed the lands for over two thousand years . . ."

Elysa followed Eleán unquestioningly. Wherever he led she was more than willing to follow, knowing that he would do nothing to put her in any danger. How she knew this she could not say, other than she felt safer with him than with any stranger she had met before. She wondered if the soothing song of the Elves or the way their friendly greeting made her feel was the reason for her ease.

Despite this trust, she was a little intimidated as they walked up to a tree, a path of leaf-shaped steps leading upwards, around the huge trunk. She looked at her companion then quietly made her way up the steps, her eyes fascinated by sights around her.

As they walked onto the platform, her eyes widened even more, as she took in the scenery around her. She had not expected to see so many people in the treetop city, having only moments ago not even realised it was there. She turned around slowly, her mouth slightly open, as she looked around her. “It’s beautiful”, she whispered mesmerised.

Before she had a chance to take it all in, a group of children rushed past, heading for an older Elf, who sat almost expecting their arrival. She smiled as she watched them excitedly speak to him, and heard the wonderful things her had to tell. She was enraptured with his tale as she stood beside Eleán, laughing to herself as she heard the youngsters discuss their futures.

She turned to her companion, smiling as the song filled the air. As his voice joined in the Elven chorus, she closed her eyes, losing herself in the sounds around her, feeling more relaxed and at peace than she could ever remember. Remaining like that for a moment, she slowly opened her eyes, once more focusing on the Elf before her.

“That’s lovely. What it is?” Elysa asked, not wanting to spoil the sound, but wanting to here what someone had named it to match its beauty. Her attention was once again caught by her surroundings, as her eyes roamed over everything, as she tried to take it all in. This certainly beats sitting in a classroom. She smiled to herself, as she realised how lucky she was to be here.

Sigrun's face didn't change as he listened to the stranger tell his name and of the history of the Crusades.

So...another Crusade legend in the making...

"I see no lies in your words, so your weapons shall be allowed on your person. See that you do exert self control in this realm, or you might find yourself in an ugly situation. Not that you have anything to worry about with the elves, for we are a peaceful race...unless provoked."

Sigrun handed the legendary sword back to Avto and bowed in respect of his ancestors.

"Passage is hereby granted into the realm." he declared, straightening once more, "Tell me now, why you come to me?"

Arleni led the way back toward the elven city. Sigrun and Avto walked side by side, conversing to themselves...

___________________________

Eleán didn't respond immediately as he finished his singing. He opened his eyes and looked down at Elysa, who prompted him for the name of the song.

"It is called, Vanya Sulie; roughly translated to 'Fair Winds'. It sings of each creature's life, and their place in the harmonious balance of the world. When all is in balance, fair winds will guide each to their destiny."

Avto Crusade walked quietly beside Sigrun, as he contemplated an answer to the probing question that Sigrun had asked. It was not clear even to Avto why he had come to the forests of Tarlachia. It was not clear why Avto wanted to pick up the mantle of a warrior more legend than reality . . . His head held low in thought, Avto began to speak aloud, attempting to sort out his troubled thoughts.

"I do not know why I have come to Tarlachia . . . Perhaps, it is to hear of the exploits of my legendary ancestor. Perhaps, it is receive a real education of the events that shape our world. I was born a farmer, with little of the hereditary techniques and sword styles passed from my great-great-grandfather. And yet through nearly sixteen years of study and practice, I have acquired some of the ability that my ancestor possessed. Now, I believe that I wish to understand fully the philosophy and ideas behind such techniques as the Infinity, Mirror, and Redemption Sword styles. I believe that I need to understand Lance Crusade, for without understanding him, I fear that I can never hope to emulate him."

Avto paused, as his train of thought wandered crossing to another passage. "Perhaps I also seek adventure. Life on the farm has never held the appeal to me. Perhaps, I am destined, like Lance Crusade, to wander the lands, forever a stranger to lands that I travel."

And suddenly, Avto sighed, before he continued. "I do not know why I have to the forests of Tarlachia. But I feel it in my bones that it is my destiny to be here in Tarlachia. Aside from these whimsical 'ifs' and 'buts,' I am here also to bring you a message from my great-great-grandfather, hidden in the sheathe of the Heaven's Will sword."

With a swift movement, Avto produced a scroll, containing some of the last thoughts and words written by Lance Crusade. . .


The time is short, old friend and I fear that I will not be able to warn you, before darkness envelopes me for the fourth and final time. Beware of enemies hidden in the guise of friends. For I was not killed by Xuanyu, but by someone that I

The rest of the scroll was intelligible, covered with dried blood . . .

(OOC: The letter is a hint for the Passing of the Torch RP)

Sigrun looked at the blood-stained letter he held in his hands, his fingers gripping the parchment somewhat tightly. He read over Lance's last words once more.

Enemies as friends...what does Lance foresee? Did his wife kill him?

Arleni stepped between a row of trees and gazed upon the spiral stairs that led to one of the cities' talans in the canopy of the trees.

"We're here." she commented as she continued to lead the way toward the stairs, but bypassed them. She instead, led the two toward Sigrun's residence by the waterfall. It was nestled into the hills surrounding the waterfall, its melodic crashing bringing a sense of peace to the ears.

Inside, she drew up a third chair to the small table that sat by the window. She unslung her bow and hung it on the wall, on its mount, and added her arrows to it. Her sword was done likewise on another mount. Sigrun did so as well with his weapons. He turned to Avto offering him one of the chairs.

Sigrun looked at Avto, "You are welcome to put your weapons up. In this realm, you are quite safe, I assure you. On another topic, do you know what happened to your grandfather?"

Elysa listened as Eleán spoke, while at the same time recalled some of the words of the song he had been singing. It has been beautiful and soothing, ethereal like all things Elven. She knew that was one of the things that fascinated her from the first time she had seen an Elf. Deep down, she would have given anything to have been given the grace and beauty that the Elven community portrayed.

“And if there is no balance?” She looked at him questioningly. “What happens then?” She looked around her wondering if this place could ever be anything other than balanced. There was a tranquillity that she did not think she would experience anywhere else. Smiling, she brought her gaze back to her companion. “I hope the Winds are guiding me.”

Eleán closed his eyes as memories surged to his beckoning thoughts. He opened them once more and looked down at Elysa, speaking softly. He took her hand gently, focusing on her mind with his own.

"The balance is what brings life to the world. When the balance is disrupted..."

In Elysa's mind, she began to see images, first of peaceful villages. Suddenly, in the distance, fire races across the horizon, smoke rises high in black fumes of smoke...

Children and women scream in horror and fear as dark, fearsome humans run them down, raising their weapons of war and bringing them down mercilessly unto them...

"Darkness reigns supreme..."

The pounding drums and sparks of steel can be seen worked into weapons of war. Civilians are thrown into dark ill-kept prisons, and left to die. The horns of war are blown and armies begin to march...

With chaos comes war...

Scenes of horrific battles can be seen, between men, elves and other species of the earth. Blood coats the ground like a scarlet carpet, the screams and jeers of the dying can be heard...

With death comes sorrow...

The screams and pitiful cries of mothers over sons and daughters, as one mother's face zooms in for closer observation. Her mouth screams, "Why?! Damn you all!"

An elderly father is seen standing with his cane by his son's freshly buried gravemound, the son's war-weathered sword plunged halfway into the earth at the top. The view is seen to wrap around to look into the face of the father, as he struggles to fight the tears that come to his eyes. But he fails, and loses all restraint as he falls upon the mound and weeps bitterly...

Eleán released Elysa's hand, looking at her sadly, "In times of peace, sons bury fathers, but in times of war, fathers bury sons."

Eleán turned away, raising a hand to his forehead as he slowly urged the memories to return to the depths of his mind. He turned after a few more moments and looked into her eyes.

"These memories are the curse of eternal life. We cannot help but watch and remember the world as it turns and is torn apart by fractioned forces of intelligent life. We are the Living Chronicles of Time."

Avto Crusade brows rose in confusion, as he replied. "You mean my grandfather, Leto Crusade, or my great-great-grandfather, Lance Crusade? If you mean Lance Crusade, you know more about his demise than I do . . . If you speak of Leto Crusade, I do not know he died. He disappeared upon the battlefield, as he attempted to close the floodgates to a terrible disaster that would have brought our mortal realm towards an eternal darkness. Although the gates were closed, the legend says that Leto Crusade disappeared forever, as the gates closed behind him, trapping him in the maelstrom . . ."

"The destinies of my family has always been fraught with difficulties. Of my ancestors, male and female, most of it not all have disappeared and died on the battlefield."

"Your great great grandfather was whom I was inquiring about. However, I see that you know not what happened to him. Perhaps I shall tell you in a time more suitable for you to understand what exactly happened. You are young, Avto, and have not even begun to see the horrors and joys of the universe. You have hardly begun your journey..."

Sigrun summoned two elven drinks and pushed one toward Avto, "Drink this. It will revive your strength from your journey here."

Sigrun took a deep draught of his brew and lowered the glass. He studied Avto's face momentarily.

"Do you have questions that I may answer for you?" he asked, still studying Avto's face, particularly his eyes. He knew that one's soul could be seen through their eyes, and in Avto's, something was hidden deep inside him, something only his destiny would unveil...

Arleni left Sigrun and Avto to themselves and disappeared through a back door. Her footsteps were light as the soft wind blew the leaves at her feet around, almost as if they danced with life. She quickly made her way down the hardly noticeable path, making her way toward a small boat that sat upon the river. Nodding to the sole occupant of the ship, she boarded and held on as it pushed softly from the banks and caught the current downstream.

The river flowed eastward and then turned slightly north as it led to a heavily fortified fortress that sat upon the banks of the river, outside of the forests. Here, there was rockier terrain, and scraggly brush that scratched at the clothing and skin. Even the sunlight seemed harsher as she departed the ship and entered the fortress.

Her eyes scanned the fortress, studying the construction that was already well underway. There were at least a thousand convicts slaving away at building the massive structure that sat in the center of the fortress. It already rose above the fortress walls and opened in a circular pattern. Within this structure was a large open ground that had several various items in place already, items that reminded one of the Coliseum of ancient Rome. There was one difference though. The Romans often selected humans to fight, and threw in the odd wildlife to spice up the battles. This arena would bring in more ferocious creatures and opponents than much of the world had ever seen.

"Janus!" she called out, seeking the director of the construction crews.

A middle aged man with an eye surgically sealed and a few broken or missing teeth turned upon his raised platform, from where he had been barking out orders. His eyes studied the feminine figured below him and he gave a crooked smile. His salt and pepper hair lay in disarray as he leapt down from the fifteen foot platform and landed squarely on his feet, kneeling to reduce the shock on his feet. He stood and faced Arleni.

"What's the report?" she asked.

"Work is good. The convicts are filling out their community services well. Had a few that tried to cause havoc but they're now taken care of..."

Janus pointed to a gallows outside the fortress, seen just over the wall. Arleni looked and beheld the three men who had been hung, with deep gashes on their bodies. They had been whipped as well. Arleni shook her head.

"You know how I don't approve of your methods of discipline Janus." she remarked.

"It's the only way to keep 'em in line. Even the government knows that." he defended.

"Whatever. Get those men down by tonight."

"Fine."

"How long until the construction is done?" she asked, changing the subject.

Janus pulled out a piece of paper, wrinkled and stained with dirt. He unfolded it and looked at it. It was a design of the coliseum. He looked up,

"We should actually be able to be finished within the next day or two. All we have left are to install the gates to the lairs, and set up the most dangerous object."

Arleni raised an eyebrow, "What is it?"

"Oh no...you'll see...this is something the coronation council say is to be a surprise to the crowds."

Arleni narrowed her eyes.

"Trust me. This is gonna be something the whole of Tarlachia has never thought possible."

Arleni scowled slightly, "If that's so, then it's also something that we better have the capability of harnessing. Otherwise, it will break loose and cause havoc."

"Which is why your elders have already begun to install the proper hookey words and dances, which is supposed to do that. Not that I believe it. I prefer the material methods of containment."

"Be careful, Janus, lest you insult me."

"Of course."

"Get back to work. I'll be back tomorrow, and I want to see this place finished. Got it?"

"Yes ma'am." Janus replied and climbed the ladder back up to his platform. he turned and barked in a rough, but clear voice, "Get working you pricks! Or to the gallows you go!"

The pounding of steel and wood increased as construction was heralded forward by Janus's cry...

Arleni watched momentarily before turning away and returned to her ship. She looked to they sky, noting that the sun was nearing the horizon. Soon, the whole underworld would be stirring and would stalk the streets.

The boat rocked slightly under her arrival.

"Back to the city."

The boatswain nodded and turned the ship and propelled it forward against the opposing current with pure arcane energy.

Watching as the scenes revealed themselves then died, Elysa felt an overwhelming sadness. She was not unused to witnessing death and heartache, people died everyday, but to see the scenes in such a peaceful environment touched her more than she thought. She gasped as her breath caught in her throat, before sighing sadly as the images faded.

She looked into Eleán’s eyes, and nodded at his words. As bad as they had seemed, she wondered how one would cope with seeing hundreds or thousands of years’ worth of such tragedy. “Both a blessing and a curse. To see and remember all, never seeing an end.” Suddenly the idea of dying did not seem such a bad option following a long life; a chance to blot out the memories and. depending on beliefs, start again.

Raising her hand, she encompassed all around her. “And here, in this place, this is balanced? Does the wind guide all to their destinies?” She looked about her. Does the wind guide me to mine? She looked off into the distance wondering where her destiny laid.

Eleán nodded, "Yes. We have learned from the ages, and know that to continue to live as many others do, is foolish. Thus, we strive to ensure the peaceful passing of time, which in time cultivates life."

Eleán looked up into the sky peeping through the canopy. "The sun is setting soon. You are welcome to remain in my home tonight, if you wish. There is an upcoming event that is going to be viewed by citizens of the nation, in two days time, starting at sunset. There is a new ruler in line to take command of Tarlachia. The democratic government will become abolished, the human representatives already have begun their approval of the transfer of powers. Yet, they wish for something to satisfy their decision that the coming ruler is suited for his duties."

Eleán looked down at Elysa, awaiting her response patiently.

Nodding her head slowly, Elysa smiled at the Elf, barely believing what she was hearing. “I would be honoured. To witness such an event would be truly amazing.” She clasped her hands and gently pinched herself to see whether this was all some kind of a dream. When she woke up that morning, Elysa could not have imagined that things would turn out so interesting. “If you are certain that I will not be in the way or a hindrance.”

She crossed her fingers hoping for him to answer the way she wished him to, her eyes fixed to his, almost pleadingly. If she could continue to learn directly from the Elves, share a moment of their lives, then missing a couple of days of class hardly seemed comparable.

Eleán smiled warmly, "Then it is settled. Come with me to my home."

Elysa smiled excitedly. He knew she was in an almost feverish excitment inside herself. He had seen the same kind of excitement in young Arleni's face long ago. His let his thoughts float upon his niece's face, remembering when he had taken her to one of the men's sporting events, something they called, "soccer". He had never really understood the passion behind the game, but Arleni had been entranced by the teamwork, the brutality of the game.

Now, Arleni had fully grown, and had seen many things in her life, things that had made her more mature, and appreciative of her own culture.

Eleán led Elysa to one of the small constructs that didn't even seem to be made by elven hands, so natural it seemed to be, just sitting there. He raised a hand to the door and spoke a quick word in Sindarin. The lock disengaged and he opened the door.

"Welcome to my home." he declared, holding the door open for her.

Once inside, the two were faced with a room filled with furniture of elven design. There were flowers and plants that sat throughout the home, giving a pleasant scent to the air. Eleán went to the kitchen and pulled out a two simple goblets and poured a liquid from a pouch that hung on the wall. He returned to Elysa, who was in the 'living room' and offered her a goblet.

"This is where I've lived for the past two thousand years. This home, I built with my own hands, in a time when the elven realm was hardly established, and the nation of Tarlachia in its infancy."

Following behind Eleán, Elysa continued to flick her eyes around her, knowing that she was behaving like an excited school girl, even though she was a young woman and should have been able to compose herself better. Reaching the door, she watched a it opened to a few Elven words, reminding her of the tales of Arabian Nights. Open Sesame. For a moment she realised how useful it would be not to have to fish for keys every time she left or returned home.

Stepping through the door, Elysa was greeted with sights and smells that just added to her excitement, making it hard for her to reply in any way other than a smile. As Eleán headed off out of the room, she carefully made her way around the room, admiring all the items that surrounded her. She raised her hand before her, letting her fingers glide over some of the objects stopping her endeavour when she heard her host return.

“Thank you.” As he presented her with a goblet, she took it and brought it up to her lips, sipping the contents slowly, unsure what it was or whether she would like it. “Mmm, that’s nice.” She looked at Eleán and smiled. “I don’t think I could imagine it here two thousand years ago. To be honest, this place feels old and yet fresh to me, it’s hard to think of it being that old.”

She looked around the room again, her gaze falling on various objects, suddenly noticing how dark it was growing, as she struggled to make out details that only moment ago seemed so much clearer. Then as if by magic, the light around her began to brighten, as details once more came into focus, as the candles around the room came alight.

Staring open mouthed, she returned her attention back to Eleán. “How?” She managed to whisper eventually. But she knew that the Elves could do things that she would never truly understand. She shook her head slowly, as she tried to take in another surprising element of her visit.

“You must have seen a lot in two thousand years.” She took another sip of her drink, cupping it in her hands as she lowered it. “I would love to hear any stories you may have…if you wish to share them.” No matter what she saw today, she just wanted to learn so much more.

"Yes...I've actually lived for two thousand one hundred and nineteen years. In that time, I've watched wars rage across the land, seen civilizations rise and fall like the ebbing of the tide. I've seen events of catastrophic measure that threatened to cast the world into eternal darkness, surrendering the last of the world evil. I've seen good men and elves stand together in terrific battles that are told in legend. I've watched the earth become scarred and damaged, and yet return to full health after time. Gaia is powerful in the earth, and is strong enough to hold off the onslaught of civilization."

Eleán sat down upon one of the comfortable chairs, setting his goblet on the table nearby. He watched as Elysa sat upon the couch nearby and listened to his story.

"Perhaps I shall tell you the tale of Maximus Destroi..."

Eleán summoned a small portal, in which a portrait of Maximus was seen. Elysa looked carefully at the portrait.

Portrait in portal (http://web.telia.com/~u40228043/gifts/rannon01.jpg)

In the beginning of his life, he lived for twenty one years, and had married to a wonderful woman whom loved him with all her heart. But destiny would deny him of his wife, and so she fell before the vicious fangs of a vampire. Estranged and enraged, Maximus turned aside all former thoughts of a peaceful life and sought the trail of death.

That is, the death of his wife's murderer. He had inherited swords of legend, one was Narsil, the other Glamdring. A year after her death, he hunted the vampires of the world, seeking to eliminate their distasteful presence from Tarlachia, and eventually the world. Then, on one fateful night, he came across the path of a foreign vampiress, Skadi. She shattered Narsil and pulled Maximus into the Underworld, to serve as her fellow combatant...but as the one creature he despise the most, a vampire.

As the years wore on, she taught him to love again, and soon the two fought together in wars that ravaged the nation of Assington. With Narsil gone, he took Glamdring into battle, and shed much blood with it. He proved to be an exceptional warrior, gifted with the sword and blessed with a heart of ice toward his foes. Soon, his name began to spread to other nations, to the rest of the Underworld. He befriended legends such as Kain Irenicus Shentavo. His path carried him to distant shores and cities, where death followed his every footstep. Some had considered him the embodiment of the Grim Reaper himself, so brutal and inhumane his combat. Strangely, he held himself to a code of honor that can be best related to ancient medieval codes of honor.

With the passage of time, Maximus learned that he was gifted in a way none ever expected. His blood ran with that of men, vampire, and elf. Under the guidance of Kain Shentavo, as well as my niece, Arleni Greenwood, he gained quickly the knowledge of elven magic. With this, he battled great demonlords such as Arithon and Nez'Gah. His nemesis of that conflict was Kazar-Tiyon. The two were literally opposites of each other, and they fought the greatest display of skill and passion that few have ever witnessed. Finally, exausted, they collapsed and agreed to become friends, for they couldn't best each other as enemies. A strange twist of that conflict, for darkness seemed to be winning over the warriors of the light. Ravelyn Shentavo, Kain, and others not of that clan fought in that fight of survival.

After that fight, it seemed that nothing could stop the vampire warrior, Maximus Destroi, whose actions had clearly lived up to his name. Maximum Destruction..."

Eleán glanced over to Elysa, and was surprised to see her asleep. He fell silent as he listened to her steady breathing, and then got up and placed a soft elven comforter over her.

"Good night Elysa. Sleep with songs of happiness..." he murmered and departed the room. The candles blew out, one by one until the room lay in darkness, save for the rising moonlight...

As the sun began to set, Stephen's eyes cracked open. He sat up in bed and his cobalt blue eyes scanned the dark room, wondering for a few seconds why he wasn't in his apartment. Suddenly his memory clicked and he rememebered he was in the Elven Realm.

Stephen climbed out of bed and walked over to a window, opened it and stared into the forest, drawing in a deep breath of the cool night air. He looked up at the stars and smiled, the lights in Clarence had drowned out many of them, and it was good to see all the stars twinkling in the sky.

He turned and headed to his duffel bag and pulled out his usual black jeans, socks, and t-shirt. He pulled the t-shirt over his scarred upper body and twitched slightly as his finger touched an old scar, even after a thousand years, they still had not healed. Stephen didn't really mind, he barely noticed them any more, spare for when he touched a slightly sensitive area.

He put on his sword and decided on carrying one of the Sig-Sauer P228s with him. Stephen knew there was no need for carrying his weapons, but he did it out of habit. He reached into the duffel bag, paused, and carefully lifted out the Wolf Knife, doing his best not to touch the silver that was on the handle.

Stephen clipped it behind him on his belt and threw on his trenchcoat. He walked out into the hallway and didn't see anyone.

The vampire decided to explore this new place.

Hondur awoke with a start. For the first time in over a thousand years he had dreamed. Images of elves filled his mind, off their blood and the power it could deliver. He had no idea where this had come from. Hondur had never seen an elf in his life before Sigrun. He knew Skadi was around during the departure of elves from Assington, but she never spoke of it. Stepping out of the old hollow oak, Hondur straightened his robes and checked the blade at his hilt. He didn't believe using it would be necessary, but one could never be too careful.

Confident that everything was in order, Hondur began walking at a casual rate deeper into the forest. He hadn't thought about how he would enter the elven realm but considered that Sigrun would most likely allow him to pass. Although the thick forest blocked out most moonlight, Hondur had no difficulty seeing as he navigated through the forest, avoiding thick overgrowths of bush with agile leaps.

After fifteen minutes of walking, Hondur noticed a difference. There were others nearby. He didn't know for sure, but his vampiric senses found something to be different around this part of the forest than the previous part. Coming to a halt, Hondur swung part of his outer robe around his blade, indicating that he would not draw it.

"I am Hondur of Assington. Show yourselves for your can fear not from me, I come to your land by invitation of Sigrun Greenwood."

(OOC: Whoot! First semester is over. I'm going on a short vacation, e.g. a cruise to the Bahamas. I'll be back next Saturday. Until then, Tarl has control of my character)

OOC: Are you even remotely aware of how many characters I've gotta keep up with? oy... to illustrate:

Sigrun, Arleni, Eleán, the people building the coliseum, the random elves walking about, the port city...

well...frankly...AN ENTIRE NATION!

Meh, I'll be fine.

oh...and GU's characters, Zero and Aeris.

Sigrun took a breath of air before continuing,

"Yes, your great great grandfather was an exceptional man. He even has gifted me with something I've never expected to recieve: the technique known as 'Prancing Dragon-Strike of the Infinite Swords' and the 'Sword Dance of Redemption' technique. He has entrusted me with the knowledge of these techniques, and so, I shall keep them forever in my heart as the next best gift from Lance, besides his friendship."

Avto perked his ears, "Those techniques I've not heard of. What are they?"

Sigrun closed his eyes, "They are far too complex for you to master at this time. But to answer your question, they are attacks that are devastating, and quite deadly."

A knock sounded upon the door. Sigrun finally noticed that the light of day had disappeared, replaced by candlelight that had automatically flickered on as darkness set in.

"Come in." he called out, standing to greet the newcomer. An elf opened the door. "Sir. A moonwalker by the name of Hondur has asked for your presence."

Sigrun cracked a smile, "Let him through."

The elf nodded and turned aside, "He's here." the elf spoke to an unseen being just beyond the door.

Hondur stepped through and immediately found Sigrun.

"Ah, Hondur, so good of you to come. I trust your trip here was all right?"

________________________

The elven maiden was finishing her tasks down at the river, collecting a final bucket of water to take back to her home. She looked up quickly as she heard the approach of another. Her eyes fell upon a pale figure walking down the small path that ran parallel to the river.

She instantly drew an elven dagger and held it at the ready, "Leave the realm, stranger, or your death will be swift!"

Her green eyes glared out from under her brunette hair as she took a stance against Stephen. She whispered a few words, to which a tree branch responded nearby the vampire, slapping him hard across the face.

Stephen walked through the forest taking in every sight and scent. He loved the outdoors and spent a lot of time while he was human going hiking, and sometimes week long camping trips. Now that he was a vampire, he had stopped camping, but still liked to take a walk in the woods.

He kept walking and looked up when he sensed the elf. He smiled politly at her, and opened his mouth to explain why he was here, but was greated by a branch in the face. Stephen staggered slightly, suprised to be attacked by a tree. A branch had cut his face in a few places, he wipped the blood off, the wounds already healed. The vampire licked the blood off his hand and looked up at the elf.

Stephen smiled at her and stepped off the path, walking slowly, making sure she could see his hands, and he was away from any branches. He moved closer, but stopped when she took a more firm stance.

"Hi.....I'm Stephen. I'm here as a friend to Sigrun Greenwood. I won't hurt you, I may be a vampire, but I'm not a cold-bloodied killer."

Stephen noticed several buckets filled with water near the elf.

"Would you like some help carrying those?"

The elven maiden continued to glare at the vampire. Yet his words had hit truthfully in her mind, and she obeyed her instincts. This one was peaceful toward her, displaying a persona that seemed to radiate differently than that of the Moonwalkers of Tarlachia. She looked toward the buckets, then back to Stephen.

"No, I'm fine." she declared, sheathing her dagger and hoisting both of the buckets in her hands. She made her way up the bank of the river and moved past Stephen, her eyes continuing to glare into his. She paused momentarily,

"Mellon of Sigrun or not, you are a moonwalker, and thus are not to be trusted." she said with an air of defiance in her voice.

She resumed her trek up the trail...

OOC: Is there some way to tie Eric into this story right now Tarlachia. since hes captured by elven men.

Hondur stepped through the doorway and was immediately drawn to Sigrun's presence. He flashed the elf a slight grin, displaying the tip of his fangs and gave him a nod of greeting. The vampire and elf weren't exactly the best of friends, but they got along well enough these days.

"Good to see you again Sigrun. I had to outrun your sun a little, but otherwise there were no dramas. I'm sorry Skadi could not join you on such an occassion, but I'm sure you remember the circumstances upon the last time you were with her. She is healing well but will still sleep for some time. How are things on your side of the world?"

Hondur shuffled his robes slightly to allow his scabbard more freedom. The hilt of his katana reflected the soft candle light around the vampire, making the area around him slightly brighter. Looking down at the blade, Hondur rememered Skadi and the moment she gave it to him once again. Unfastening the belt, Hondur placed his blade against the wall.

Hondur (http://www.digikitten.com/playhousev2/files/evilwill/Hondur.jpg)

Stephen stood there for several seconds as the elf walked past him. Mellon? What the heck does that mean? Stephen didn't speak any elvish, the word didn't seem to have any relation to Ancient Simatarian. He looked at the elf, jumped, and landed next to her.

The elf glared at him and Stephen smiled at her.

"Why don't you trust me? Besides the fact I'm a vampire, I can understand that....I do drink blood to survive. Is there any other reason? I'm not really that bad of a guy you know. You have to know a person before making any judgement about them."

OOC: Are you even remotely aware of how many characters I've gotta keep up with? oy... to illustrate:

Sigrun, Arleni, Eleán, the people building the coliseum, the random elves walking about, the port city...

well...frankly...AN ENTIRE NATION!

Meh, I'll be fine.

oh...and GU's characters, Zero and Aeris.
(OOC: Sorry, but I need a big break from RL. I.e. if I don't go on vacation, I'll suffer another meltdown very similar to what happened second semester of my junior year. Sorry...)

OOC: Drake, have him go to the coliseum, look around and stuff, ask what's going on. Do note that because it is nighttime, security will be tighter, and there will be guards walking about. Don't kill anyone, or things will get very nasty for you...

5CN, no worries, as I said. I was just a bit surprised by the request.

IC:
Sigrun closed his eyes, recalling Skadi's face to his mind. Her eyes were hard, but toward him, were softened slightly. Her fangs were seen slightly under her upper lip, but giving a look of inviting seduction, as if there lay a wonderful secret behind the lip. He opened his eyes again and looked at Hondur.

"She will require much more time until she is ready to reemerge into the world again." he replied.

Sigrun said this as he turned to one of the plants in his home, lifting its leaves and checking the soil. He muttered a spell, and water condensed below the leaves and soaked into the soil. He turned back to Hondur.

"Things around here have been changing rapidly. A nation is reassembling itself, preparing for an event they think will happen. Somehow, I'm at the front of this change, and an entire nation to back me. Or, at least, that's how the prophesy goes. There is apparently a series of events that must occur before the prophesy is complete though. I must complete these events, at whatever cost is required. Yet I still wonder, Hondur, why I have been chosen by Destiny to this fate. You know me, I never wished to rule a nation, even when I led that coup long ago. What makes them think I want to do it now?"

_________________________________

The elven girl stared icily into Stephen's eyes. Her will was strong, and his constant badgering wouldn't break her. She replied with an icy tone.

"It does not matter to you how I judge others. I knew enough of you when I first laid my eyes on you. That is why you live now. The fact that you drink blood, of all things, brings memories to my heart that tear apart old wounds, wounds that may never heal. I suspect that you won't be satisfied by my answer, so I shall give you a bit more. My father was murdered by your kind, his innards left out for the dogs... His face, I still remember to this day, locked in a look of horror and pain. Incredible pain. His death is avenged, but my hatred of all that makes up a moonwalker will live for the rest of my life. You are lucky I still retain my restraint on killing any moonwalker that crosses my path..."

She fell silent once again and followed the trail once more. She could hear the vampire's breathing behind her, even as soft as it was. She hoped she wouldn't have to kill this one, for she suspected his suggested affiliation with Sigrun to be true. Her thoughts fell on Sigrun for a few moments and paid respect to the elven warrior who seemed perfect for the nation's upcoming events...

Stephen walked slightly behind the elf, digesting what she had said.

"I'm sorry about your father."

He heard her say something in Elvish, he didn't know what she said but he guess it was along the 'Sure you do' lines. Stephen once again walked next to the elf and she once again gave him the same icy glare as she had before.

"I am serious, I am very sorry about your father. There are many vampires who are no better than criminals...then again there are some vampires who are much nicer in a way. Hating a person for who they are or what they do is no way to live. I admit that I have done it myself on several occasions."

Stephen moved his t-shirt slightly so the elf could see part of his scared body.

"I hated the men who did this to me for years afterward....but I had to hammer it through my head that there are asses in this world yet there many more people who are not asses. When Sigrun was a vampire, I considered him a cold-bloodied killer. When I got to know him I realised there was a person behind the fangs."

The pair walked quitely for a few more minutes, the elf apparently not reacting at all to what he said.

"Well...sorry for troubling you ma'am. Have a good day."

Stephen turned and took a few steps down the trail before turning back to the elf.

"One last thing, something my mother told me when I was a kid...sometimes you need to forgive your enemies for your wounds to heal."

The elven maiden stopped and turned to Stephen's departing form.

"Wait." she called out.

Stepehn turned and looked back at her, now wondering why she had suddenly a nicer tone in her voice. She set down her buckets and walked closer, but kept a little distance between them.

"You say Sigrun was a vampire? That's impossible, the dead cannot come back to life!"

Stephen looked at the elf for several seconds, trying to think of a way to explain to her.

"He was a vampire....by the name of Maximus Destroi. He was killed a while back by some guy named Damien Black. Being a Simatarian and that vampires and other such creatures don't exist in the Golden Simatar.....it was hard for me to digest even the fact vampires existed. We became friends after the coup here, while I was still human. I remember he told me he had elven blood in him..and that is how he came back."

The vampire studied the elf, trying to figure out what she was thinking.

"I can assure you, Sigrun was a vampire. I met him as he is now the night I turned into a vampire. I really don't know how he came back in elf form, he has never fully explained it to me. I am telling you the truth."

Hondur moved forward and came to sit upon one of the finely crafted chairs within Sigrun's house. It seemed the elves lived in comforts, simple, but comfortable nonetheless. Just the way he liked it. Making himself comfortable, Hondur listened carefully to Sigrun's words. Eventually a grin spread across his face.

"So you're to become an official leader. I don't blame you for having doubts. I had no intention of being a leader when I first founded that coven, but things have a way of working out on their own. Call it what you wish. It is something you can get used to, it may even come naturally you will find. Look at Skadi. Although she wants no part of leading the vampires of Emerald, her mere presence commands repsect and obediance from the other vampires. She leads more than she wants to believe and plays a vital role. I'm sure you will be able to manage. Especially with all this support."

The grin broadened slightly upon Hondur's face.

"Of course, that's assuming you survive these trials."

Sigrun sighed, "I don't know Hondur. I've changed so much since my first years long ago. Once we were sworn enemies, and now we sit here and simply chat. Our weapons are away from our hands, a true testimony to the changes between us."

Sigrun paused, thought for a moment then spoke, "Many of these people only support me because the elders have declared me as the prophesied ruler. They do not do this out of respect, but blind obedience. What sort of leadership is that? None, I tell you, for they are sheep led by a blind ruler to a fate none know. They are pawns! There is no surge of nationalism, there is no binding ties of these people to myself. Tell me Hondur, what do they see in me? What good am I to them if I do not know of my own qualities?"

Hondur rose from his seat and immediately grabbed Sigrun, lifting him by his robes and into the air. He made sure not to grab the elf by the throat as he didn't want to hurt him, just shake a little sense into him.

"Listen to yourself! You are a respected warrior. Many know that and many will learn to know that. I've seen you lead troops, command men and elf and vampire before. You can make them respect you. It doesn't matter if they don't all know of your deeds yet, you can earn their respect proper by being a good leader. The difference between a good and bad king is the way people obey and respect their leader. Bad kings come into office and expect everything because they have a tittle. A good king will accept his title and try his best to earn it and the adoration of his people. All these people need is some evidence of your strength, your will. Then they will truly respect you."

Done with his rant, Hondur threw the slightly stunned Sigrun back onto his chair. Looking down at his elven companion, Hondur spoke in a soft tone.

"Just think about that."

OOC: Very nice, Assington, very nice...

IC:
Sigrun sat upon his seat quietly, musing over Hondur's words. His fingers stroked his chin as he thought. Hondur watched him carefully.

He's right...I did earn my respect through my deeds. However, this is a new matter, a new battlefield upon which I have shed no blood either of my own body or of another's.

Sigrun looked back up at Hondur, nodding. Hondur smiled as he saw the old fire reignite in his friend's eyes.

"You're right. This is a new battle for my respect, but like all others, I will defeat it. I will emerge triumphant!"

He eyed the sword on the wall and smiled to himself. Time to put her back into service...

"Tell me Hondur, will you be attending the event in a day's time? I have arranged for the event to be held in the hours of the night, for your sake, as well as Stephen's."

(OOC: At the airport. Final post before I go on vacation...)

Abruptly, Avto Crusade stood and bowed, his arms folding across his chest. "Pardon me Sigrun, Hondur, and Skadi. It is not good for me to stay idle. To achieve the level of expertise and ability that my honored forebear achieved requires much practice. If you can pardon me, I will walk amongst the trees . . ."

Without another word, Avto exited the room, his hands grabbing up his pair of sheathed swords. He ran swiftly through the town and towards the woods, on the balls of his feet. Nearing the edge of town, Avto leaped into the air and began to fly, appearing as if he tread through the air.

As he floated through the sky, Avto slowly began to consider the two techniques that Sigrun had spoke of. It is not fair that my ancestor would pass such a powerful technique to a stranger. He abandoned his descendants, allowing to fare as we will.

With a heavy sigh, Avto slowly dropped into a clearing in the woods. With a smooth motion, Avto drew both swords. One was like the sun in its golden brilliance. This was the Sword of Cala. The other was like the night, obsidian colored. This was the Heaven's Will Sword. As he glanced at both weapons, Avto drew strength from their history and the legacy that they gave. And with great concentration, Avto began to train . . .

He would not return back to the town for some time . . .

Hondur waited in silence as Sigrun thought over his words. It was obvious that the vampire's talk had made sense to Sigrun and he was soon more confident about the challenges that lay ahead of him. He gave a nod to Avto as he departed then turned back to Sigrun.

"I don't see why I shouldn't hang around for the presentation. I've never been to Tarlachia before and wouldn't mind taking a look around."

The vampire also nodded his thanks for Sigrun's efforts at having the ceremony at night.

The elven maiden nodded, "I see..."

She bent down to pick up the buckets of water, then looked up to Stephen.

"Well, mellon of Sigrun, I assume you are here to see to his coronation? It will happen soon, you know."

_____________________________________

Sigrun smiled to Hondur, "Then you shall be given the VIP tour. But for now, I must rest. The trials will be taxing on my mind and body, and I cannot triumph over them if I am weary and weak. I shall have a guide take you."

Sigrun stepped out the door and gave a melodic bird call, which was momentarily responded by another. The guide was coming.

Minutes later, an elf descended from the treetops and stood before Sigrun.

"Tarlinion, take Hondur on a tour of the nation. Make the trip quick enough to allow him to return before sunrise."

The elf bowed respectfully to Hondur, "My pleasure. We shall travel by foot or by portal, whatever your wish, Master Hondur."

Sigrun turned to his friend, "There, that is settled. Enjoy the tour." He patted Hondur on the shoulder and turned away. He made his way to his bedroom and promptly fell asleep...

OOC: Assington, just have the trip be quick, I'd like to start the next day soon.

Golden Simatar, same with you, go ahead and close the meeting out.

Stephen nodded to the elf.

"That is the reason I'm here. I do not wish to waste any more of your time ma'am. I hope you see you there."

The vampire turned to go into the forest before turning around.

"By the way....mellon means friend right?"

The elf nodded, though she didn't appear to be smiling; Stephen knew she was probably laughing on the inside, he was friends with an elf and did not know the Elven language.

Stephen smiled to her and bowed to the elf.

"Have a good evening ma'am."

He turned and headed back into the forest. He continued to explore as much of the Elven Lands as he could before dawn. The vampire looked at his watch, sighed and headed back to his room.

Stephen entered his room and closed the window as the sun slowly began to rise. He undressed and climbed into bed. He fell asleep a few minutes later.

Hondur indicated he would prefer to walk and was led all over the elven settlement and through the forest they claimed as their domain. This was his first experience anywhere near an elven settlement and he found it odd. Whilst Hondur was used to the city life in Assington, he also took time to visit the woods outside Emerald City and think over things. Legend said that elves once inhabbited that forest but Hondur had never found any evidence.

The sights, sounds and smells of this place were different. The elves had a minimal impact upon the woods around them yet their presence was obvious to his heightened abilities. This was a place of many mysteries, much older than he could imagine.

Eventually Hondur could sense the sun creeping over the horizon and suggested his guide take him back by portal to avoid the light. Nodding in agreement, the elf cast a portal and the pair walked through. Stepping into a simple but comfortable room, Hondur thanked the elf before laying down for a more comfortable sleep than the tree of yesterday.

The sun rose from the horizon, hesitantly at first, before suddenly exploding into the growing light of the day. Darkness fled before it, as did its children. Leaves stretched and spread out to recieve their daily nourishment, flowers bloomed in the morning glow, wet with dew. The grass on the plains seemed to ripple with a sheen of silver as the light reflected within a hundred million minature crystals sitting daintily upon the blades of grass.

About a half hour before the awe-inspiring sunrise, Eleán had awakened Elysa and had taken her to the tallest tree, upon which there was a talan built into the tree. This tree had grown taller than any other in the forest, and thus had become a meditation place for many. He spoke softly words of an elven prayer of good blessing to the new day as he watched the birds awaken nearby and begin their morning songs. He spoke softly to one that flew near and watched as it swooped gracefully about and set gently upon his arm. The sparrow bounced along his arm closer to his hand.

Eleán brought his head closer to the bird and spoke in little tweets, "A beautiful day to fly, my friend. Come...meet Elysa of Tartarus..."

The bird tweeted and hopped closer, chirping a hello to Elysa. Eleán smiled and watched her face. The sun rose a little further up the horizon, but it had not broken into the full skies above...

________________________

Sigrun rose before the dawn, and breathed the air of a new day deeply. He heard the sounds of his vampiric friends settling in for another day's nap of exodus from the sun. He sighed, remembering that not too long ago, he too had done the same for over a thousand years.

"Sleep well, my friends." he whispered softly as he emerged from his bed and dressed himself. He soon was outside and tending to the small garden that lay to the right of his home, on the opposite side of the home as the waterfall.

"A lovely day, is it not?"

Sigrun turned to face the speaker.

"Mae govannen Arleni. Yes, it is lovely."

Arleni continued, crossing her arms behind her back as she spoke, "Preparations of the Arena are almost finished. They were installing the last parts last night. It should be completed by midday today."

Sigrun smiled, "Good, good. I will need to get a few supplies first before the event. For my assistance in the trials."

Arleni replied, "Of course. But remember, get only what you need, nothing more."

Elysa had woken from the most peaceful dream she had had into what appeared to be another. As she blinked away the traces of sleep, she had felt confused as her room did not come into focus around her. It took a while for her to recall the previous day, and her current location up in the trees, amongst the Elves. She remained in this half dazed state, as Eleán guided her outside and up into one of the tallest trees.

As they stopped, she could see the sun just breaking over the horizon, spreading its golden fingers over the land, waking up all that lay beneath. She gazed at the sky, her attention broken as her companion spoke to a bird, her eyes fixed to the creature, as it bobbed over to her, singing its cheery tune.

Elysa turned to the Elf and smiled. “It’s like a dream.” Her hand ran through her dishevelled hair, catching briefly in a tangle before pushing its way through. “I’ve never seen anything so beautiful, although I admit to not seeing too many dawns.” She lowered her hand, and placed it before the little bird. “Thank you for sharing your world with me.”

"I need you to prepare me a pack of usual items necessary for survival."

The clerk behind the counter nodded, "Of course, sir." He turned around and browsed the shelves, pulling out select vials and foods. Sigrun watched the elf as he worked quickly putting the items on the countertop. In turn, Sigrun sifted through the items and picked what he wanted: burn treatments, parlysis potion, and other items that could be used, instead of him having to use magic when in battle. It would give Sigrun the ability to heal himself as necessary while simultaneously casting a spell or swinging the blade.

"Ah, I see you have chosen what you wished. Will that be all?" the clerk commented.

"Yes. Actually, no. I'll take one of the vitals potions there." Sigrun replied, pointing to the vial behind the clerk. The clerk retrieved it and set it down.

"That all?"

"Yes." Sigrun nodded.

"Right, let's see here...that will be seventy two stones." reported the clerk, ringing the items up on the register. It wasn't a regular register, but rather one that had small chutes to a larger safe below the counter, which was much too heavy to carry out of the store by a common thief. Not that thievery was common in Tarlachia. In fact, it was nonexistent, especially in the elven realm. In the land of Tarlachia, the law reigned over crime like a monsterous wave would a small tugboat.

Sigrun produced seven blue stones and two red ones and handed them to the clerk. He gathered the supplies and set them inside his small sack. His pack was weighed down a little more than usual, but he figured that its contents would be used to some extent in the trials.

"Thank you." Sigrun said as he left the elven merchant's shop. He turned back toward the stairs and began his trek back to his home.

Just as he turned to the forest, the sun finally exploded into the sky and cast its golden rays in every direction, heralding the coming of a beautiful day...
________________________

Eleán watched as the sparrow lept deftly from his hand to Elysa's and chirped at her. He smiled. Just seeing men and beast together in peace, such as this made him smile and remember back to the early years of Tarlachia, when much of the nation still lay in the wilderness. Now, a decent number of cities of men had risen from the earth and dotted the landscape. Yet, the wild lands still reigned supreme, for Tarlachia was a large nation in landmass.

"It has been my pleasure to show you who we are." Eleán replied, turning his eyes to the sun which had just broken over the horizon in its full glory. "Look Elysa, and see the light that brings life to much of the world's inhabitants!"

The two sat in awe, even the sparrow too as it chirped its happy song. Finally, Eleán spoke,

"Come...I have something for you, a gift to remind you of who we are."

Elysa held her hand out, and the sparrow sang its song louder as it took off into the morning sky and darted out of sight.

He stood and led Elysa down from the talan, taking care she didn't fall haphazardly, nor hurt herself. Soon, the two were in front of one of the elven shops, and Eleán held the door open for Elysa.

"Mae govannen, Eleán. Welcome miss!" cried the elven girl that worked inside, tending to her items on display. She walked closer, "What can I do for you?"

Eleán gestured to Elysa, "Elysa is from Tartarus as an exchange student. I have decided to gift her with an item of this realm, one I'm sure you'll find perfect for her?"

The elven girl nodded positively, "Of course. Come child." she said as urged Elysa along with her. Eleán remained where he was, choosing to look out the window to watch the elves that passed by in the city of the trees.

"Now...let's see here..." the girl muttered to herself, as she looked about the store, then turned to study Elysa carefully. "Yes, I know what you will like!"

She led Elysa through the store as she pulled out different outfits and slung them over her arm. Finally finished, she turned to Elysa, "Here, take these, try them on. Choose something you like and it's yours!"

Elysa was handed the outfits and pointed to a back room. The elven maiden smiled warmly as she watched the girl turn and head to the back room.

Elysa would have spoken, but she was once again speechless. She had been more than grateful to Eleán for giving her the opportunity to experience some time with the Elves, and now her was offering her a gift. For a moment she had wanted to protest that she did not need anything from him, but she did not wish to offend his kindness.

Following the female Elf as she moved about the shop, Elysa looked and touched various items as them walked, all the while listening to the words of the woman. When she was presented with the garments to try on, she just looked at them for a moment then stepped inside, gently place the clothing down, as she worked towards putting on the first outfit.

Looking over the items before her, she went for one in her favourite colour, choosing a soft garment of green material. Her fingers stroked along the fabric, she smiled to herself, before bringing it up to her cheek to feel the smoothness of the material. Removing her clothing quick, she slipped on the dress, feeling it caressing her skin, as it moved over her body. She heard the faint whisper as it slide down to the floor.

Smoothing her hand over the dress, she smiled again, before stepping out of the dressing area, and looked at the two people outside. “This is gorgeous.” She moved over to them and gave a slow spin. “This is the one.” She looked at Eleán. “Thank you.” Wanting to say more, but unable to, she stood smiling happily, flicking her eyes between the two as her face shone with gratitude.

Eleán nodded, complimentingly, "As beautiful as the morning sunrise..."

He nodded thankfully to the elven girl and said, "Put it on my account." Turning back to Elysa, now adorned in the elven dress, he asked, "Is there anything in particular you'd like to see today? My day is free, at least until sunset. After that, the trials are to begin, and I wish to see them, as they are rumored to be quite the historical event. You are welcome to accompany me to this..."
___________________

"Sigrun..."

Sigrun turned around quickly, and came face to face with a most unexpected visitor.

"Zero! How?" he replied surprised, indicating the sunlight with his hand.

"I'll explain later. It's a long story. I'd like you to meet Aeris, once again. She was with us in the last Assingtonian war."

Sigrun turned to the girl standing next to Zero. He looked into her eyes, noting that a change had occured inside her. He asked questioningly, "Changes begets change. You have lost your innocence. Explain?"

Aeris looked into his eyes and spoke with a maturity beyond her age, "With power comes great responsibility, Master Sigrun."

Sigrun raised an eyebrow, "That is true." He turned back to Zero, "Are you here to see the trials?"

Zero nodded, "Yes, we got the note from you."

Sigrun smiled, "Good. They will be held tonight. I shall have you and a few others placed into the best seats."

Sigrun beckoned for the two to accompany him back into the elven realm.

OOC: Hey guys.......it's been tough, so sorry if i snubbed you guys for a while, I had to think things out for myself. Anyway, I'll make a try at helping the RP along, but this may turn out a little differently from what I usually churn out.

IC: Zero smiled at Sigrun's beckoning, as he remembered what had happened prior to this meeting again......

________________________________________________________________

One day ago

The invite came as something of a surprise, to say the least. It had been a while since Zero had heard from Sigrun, but just seeing that name, calligraphed beautifully on elven paper, brought back memories to Zero. Not so long ago, they were mates on the field of battle.......then, Zero was a creature of darkness who, having stagnated in the peace of Atros, was sent out into the war-torn underworld of Emerald City, while Sigrun was an Elve of Lothlorien, one with great skill, and a great story behind the name.

How times have changed things indeed, and yet there are some things that don't change. Overnight, Zero had gained more knowledge and wisdom through the year than he had over the past 1600, and his powers had grown too, yet much of the aspects of his personality were still intact. But Aeris.........how she had grown. She was no longer the little girl he had picked up from the streets of Emerald City that one long year ago. Indeed, she was a Nephilim now, with power that Zero had never before imagined.........and the signs were that Aeris would grow even more powerful still, even more so than him. And yet, she was still Aeris, the girl whose life was saved by his love. And now, that love would also be the key to unlock her unknown life story, for it was now Zero's divine task to do so: discover the secret of the origins of Aeris, the secret even Aeris didn't know.

But until then, he and Aeris had spent time together, trying to figure out how to cope with all the changes that had happened in their life, and still keep their love intact. Which meant that Sigrun's invitation was an interruption, even if welcomed. Still........Zero knew they had stayed in Atros long enough when even Aeris thought that it would be a good idea to visit their 'Uncle Sigrun', as she so loved to call Sigrun in his absence.

For some reason, even though Aeris was now an angel, she still wasn't 'full-grown', and had not yet sprouted any wings at all. So Zero had to ask a favor from his long-time friend and monarch, King Louis, for yet another jet to Dreban, Tarlachia.........

_________________________________________________________________

Now, as he and Aeris followed in Sigrun's footsteps, Zero took the time to study the departing back of Sigrun, the famed Elven warrior. Sigrun had changed as well........whatever had happened to him had changed him greatly, just as what had happened to Zero and Aeris had changed them greatly. Striding up to level with Sigrun, Zero turned to him.

"So busy you can't spare time for tea and a nice long chat, Herr Sigrun?", Zero teased. "I can see that something big is coming up. What's happening to make you so busy, and what's been happening to you since we parted ways?"

Sigrun smiled warmly and turned his head to Zero. "There's always time to spend with friends. My life used to be in the shadows of great events, sometimes not even present. Yet, this one is going to be one in which I will be at the forefront of a new era, a new life defining moment. The leadership of a nation is not to be taken lightly. The trials tonight are the citizens' way of testing me, to ensure their hearts that I am capable of leading this nation into the unknown future. Think of it as an interview process if you will."

Sigrun glanced to see that Aeris was following and was listening. He gestured to her while talking to Zero, "You two are destined for great events as well, I can see. Guide her carefully Zero, but know this. There will be a time where you will be unable to guide her, and at that moment, you must trust that she will know what to do."

Elysa smiled as she ran her fingers lightly over the material, moving her body so the fabric swished against her skin. She looked at Eleán and smiled, a faint rosy blush enhancing her face. “Thank you, very much. You have been so generous.” She gathered together her things, and held them in her arms. “Would it be possible to leave these in your house?” She indicated the garments was carrying, wanting to be free of their burden to experience the day free from thoughts of her own life, hoping to live and feel for a moment like an Elf.

As he nodded his head, Elysa’s smile grew, reaching her eyes causing them to sparkle with joy. “Just being here is more than adequate, and experiencing anything that you wish to share with me. I have no preference to what I see or where I go.” A seriousness crept over her features. “I would be more than honoured to share this special occasion with you, to look upon a moment of history, and in years to come, be able to say that I witnessed it.” As she finished, the smile once more burst upon her lips.

Throughout the remainder of the day, massive migrations of sentient beings; either natives of Tarlachia, or otherwise; flowed endlessly toward a single location. The Tarlachian Coliseum. Elves, men, draconians, and races from the world over arrived, all expecting a wonderful event. The skies were filled with massive dragons swooping in from the mountains to the north and west of the lands. The earth crawled with the movements of men from the plains. The airports were experiencing an influx of foreigners arriving, destined for the Coliseum. The ports on the sea filled with ships of every kind imagineable. Even the single spaceport to the east of the River Aria, just beyond the nearest city to the Coliseum, saw the arrival of extraterrestrial dignitaries and spectators.

As the masses traveled through the lands, they soon beheld the massive architecture that made up the Coliseum. It sat to the west of the elven realm, near one of the major cities that sat on the River Aria. It was massive, and built with a sense of glory and mystique. It held arches and spires that reached to the skies, banners of each race of Tarlachia displayed proudly upon them. The Dragons. The three branches of Men. The Elves. The Moonwalkers. All were accounted for, all would be present in force to witness the event. The grounds covered more than two miles in length, the Coliseum centered, and covering a half mile at its longest. It was slightly oval in shape, and rose nearly six hundred feet to the sky. It had been built to hold nearly fifty thousand spectators and dignitaries alike. It truly had become one of the wonders of Fatal Terrain.

The sun drifted with a blazing glory past the horizon, smothering the skies with an awesome display of radiant colors ranging from orange to the deep purple of the oncoming night. By sunset, nearly half of the stadium was already filled, full of expectant spectators waiting to witness what was percieved to be one of the greatest events of Tarlachian history.

Various faces could be seen in the crowds, crowds that were mixed indiscriminately, all talking amongst themselves of what they imagined would take place in the Star Trials, as the event had been named by public relations committees. As they waited, various entertainers performed down in the pit of the Coliseum, from arcanic display of mock battles, to humor filled exploits of comedians. To the north, near the restricted entrance, sat the segregated, covered section, so designated for foreign dignitaries of importance. It would be here, where the current leader of Tarlachia; President John Marshall IV; would sit.

As the visitors arrived, they were given free entrance, as this was a national event, and the government wished to have as many spectators as possible. The excitement was high, and the voices of the spectators reflected the attitudes.

Eleán walked with Elysa beside him, the excitement obvious in her face. He himself, was also excited, but let little of it show, as was customary of his kind. They were granted admission, and soon had collected drinks from the one of several vendors that sat at each entrance, bellowing their refreshments, and of course, their souvenirs on sale.

Eleán looked up to the top of the coliseum, having heard the rush of beating wings as a massive dragon swooped just overhead and perched itself upon the top of the coliseum, specifically built for them. He prodded Elysa and pointed to the dragon. It glanced around the coliseum and gave a wispy breath of air. "Ice dragon, from the mountains." informed Eleán. The two could see from their walking path that led to the seats, the many dragons that had arrived from their homes, and had perched. More still came, to take their places.

Several dozen attendees behind them, Zero walked in, with Aeris in tow. They too gazed upon the majestic dragons that graced the uppermost parts of the coliseum and commented amongst themselves of them. They also marveled at the amazing architecture that was the Coliseum.

________________________

Within the Hold, so made for the event's entertainers, a lone figure stretched, and flexed his muscles in preparation for the event that was soon to begin. He looked up to the large double doors that opened up to the interior of the Coliseum, hearing the voices of thousands of spectators. He sighed. He knew that his every move would be watched with scrutiny, his every mistake noted cynically, his every success noted with delight.

It all weighed heavily upon his mind, but with effort, he shoved it aside, and focused on preparing himself. He removed his ceremonial clothing, and set it aside with care. He clothed himself in his battle clothing, sturdy clothing, yet lightweight. This was covered by his armor, which covered his torso, legs, arms and head.

His hand reached out to pick up Lanta and pull it out of its sheath. His voice spoke softly to the blade, "Strike true, and we shall emerge victorious, my friend." The blade slid back into the sheath with a hiss. Next, his bow, a gift of the Galadrim, was placed upon his backside, as well as a quiver of finely crafted arrows. He set a few more quivers aside, where attendants would bring them to the field and set them out of reach of the combatants, but could be summoned forth by Sigrun as need dictated.

He turned to the doors and sat upon a nearby bench as he waited. He closed his eyes and slipped into meditation, to center his soul, to focus his thoughts, to prepare for a most demanding challenge...

Hondur awoke from a comfortable sleep. He guessed it to be about half an hour past sunset but couldn't be sure as he wasn't used to the hours in this part of the world. Either way, the sun was down and Sigrun's big event would be likely to start soon.

Straightening his robes, Hondur stepped out of his elven lodging and looked down to the grass far below. Being teleported directly to his quarters, Hondur hadn't been sure where they had put him. Shrugging off the surprise of his accommodation, Hondur took a step off the high-rise walkway and began rapidly descending toward the lower levels of the elven settlement.

Ceasing his plummit a few metres above the ground, Hondur navigated through the trees and towards the coluseum, which wasn't hard to find due to its size and the noise around it. Within a few minutes Hondur was floating before the massive structure. He took a few seconds to admire it before ascending to the top of the building and taking a seat next to a rather large lizard which Hondur realised to be a dragon. The beast turned and looked at him, blowing steam out large nostrils. Hondur was awestruck and managed to give a slight nod back in return...

Stephen woke up from his sleep, dressed in his usual black clothes, and holstered his P-14s and took his sword and Wolf knife. He headed outside and followed the noise to the Coliseum.

As he moved through the mob of people he ran into several vampires he had become friends with after the coup. They talked for a little bit, catching up on what had been going on and such. Stephen told them he would see them afterward and headed off into the stands.

His jaw dropped as he saw the massive amount of people in the stands. The young vampire was even more shocked when he saw the dragons perched on the top of the Coliseum. Stephen headed for the top, as the lower sections were filled.

On his way up the stairs, he sensed someone, another vampire, much older, and familiar. Stephen climbed up to the top and spotted a familiar figure sitting next to a dragon. Stephen walked down the row of seats and sat down next to Hondur.

"They still cleaning up that mess I made Hondur?"

The longer Elysa spent with Eleán the more her day became more and more unbelievable, to the point where on a couple of occasions she pinched herself to make sure that she was truly awake. And just when she thought the day could not become any more thrilling, night began to fall.

Following Eleán, not really sure where she was going or what she was going to see, Elysa looked about her as the crowds began to gather around them, all heading for the same place. Whatever she was about to witness was sure to be talked about for a long time to come, and she was going to see it for herself, be a part of the event, if even as nothing more than a spectator.

Her eyes flicked around her, staring wide-eyed at the sights. She could feel the smile growing on her lips, her eyes sparking with excitement, as she walked passed vendors selling everything from food to souvenirs of the occasion, not that she had time to look as Eleán guided them to their seats.

As they grew near, he drew her attention to one of the dragons. She looked up, blinking several times as she watched in awe. “It’s a…it’s a real dragon.” She suddenly felt very foolish, not sure why she had said such a strange thing. Looking around her, she quickly took her seat, hoping she could go the rest of the day without sounding so silly.

From the woods, two figures walked side by side toward the large Coliseum. A closer look would identify them as Rikan and Nathan, back from their latest exploit from abroad, in the Golden Simatar. Together they gazed upon the Coliseum, marveling at the architecture. It seemed to have been something set down by the gods, so glorious and expansive it was.

Rikan commented, "This is going to be good. I've heard rumors that Sigrun is a most excellent combatant. We might be able to get a few lessons from him just by simply watching what he does."

She walked with him toward one of the great entrances into the Coliseum...

Rikan 'Viper' Tansho (http://groups.msn.com/_Secure/0UAAdA!YZYEEf2CrpaMV24TwbuxvybmCuhZfO8UMvUDkngmytJmQQJdIML9NBZQyHLlcu0xtQ0PM2xu!tLuy12YI1cevFvrFMhcS LXJa7eguTQoq*MPhRqXSCMRwAcDEc/deistyina.jpg)
____________________________

Two pairs of draconic eyes scanned the crowd that was spread out before them in the stands of the Coliseum. One was Tokram Firescales, descendent of the most powerful draconian lineage of the fire dragons of Tarlachia. He sported a set of draconian wings, scaled skin, and a mostly draconic look, except that he walked upright. He was close to discovering the last of the six relics required for him to unleash the legendary power of his ancestors.

Tokram Firescales (http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/draco_gallery/75653.jpg)
[OOC: Note that this is an older pic of him, about when he had secured three of the six relics]

The other was Lumina Beam, a member of the Lunar draconians, also a race of dragons, and looked more draconian than Tokram. She had silver-grey skin, elongated ears, and slit pupil eyes. She also had a five foot tail that hovered behind her just above the ground as she walked. She glanced up to the dragons that were perched beside them on the upper piers of the Coliseum, confirming a thought spoken to her. She smiled, revealing rows of pointed teeth. She turned to Tokram to whisper something in his ear, and he too smiled with pointed teeth as he continued to look about the Coliseum, studying those that arrived, and those that sat in their seats, awaiting the event eagerly.

Lumina Beam (http://groups.msn.com/_Secure/0UwDVAp0a1ITMPKzUk04Bldjael*hNF7t2y5igQwdio4KcW6vBkMZwpuWy5B6vzBwPFQWeJkfwGvp*pp7TLDL2gFKkeFN3gki*aP SwMg*j8uDH74DwM5JrbCWlQz6kARv/Dragonpearl2.bmp)
____________________________

Another figure walked forth toward one of the main entrances, his soft white wings wrapped around his torso gracefully. His blue eyes twinkled with a sense of wisdom, of ethereal presence. He was none other than Liam Celadrin, the reputed leader of the Celadrin clan, angelic in nature, and wise beyond most creatures of this earthly plane. He was alone, but he did not worry for his own protection. His staff tapped unto the stones, a resounding thump, thump thump echoing through the wood.

He entered underneath the grand arches of the western entrance and beheld the interior of the Coliseum. He raised an eyebrow. At least one good thing could be said of men. They were superb architects.

Liam Celadrin (http://groups.msn.com/_Secure/0VQDvAqEbP9H3n3gTNPfa1Fo53yVQHdtERNVlg0aep0mhwUArR!16RV0fz4TDHxDGIaBcJbLKyzsV9fnjLIrt2ZmTFy38tIwsIIm lzuhoq8outzbP7MsNUHUeeK1Sj6xb/Celadrinleader.gif)

__________________________

Arleni strode within the Hold and spied Sigrun sitting meditatively. She walked closer and remained silent. As she did, Sigrun spoke, "I take it the crowds have arrived?"

Arleni nodded as she watched Sigrun continue his meditations. He did not open his eyes. "Yes, nearly every seat is filled. You're going to be performing in front of a full house."

Sigrun opened an eye and looked at her somewhat amusingly, "I know. Thanks for the pressure eh?"

Arleni broke a smile upon her face, "Sorry. I'm sure you're quite stressed."

Sigrun shrugged, "I'm working on it."

Arleni nodded understandingly and left him alone once more, now making her way to her next destination. The High Council had asked her to be the voice that spoke to the masses, and narrate the event. She needed to get ready, to prepare for the start of the Star Trials.

Stephen excused himself from Hondur, placed his trenchcoat and sword in his seat and left the stands. The vampire headed down several long flights of stairs into the dark hold. With his perfect night vision, he had no trouble going through the corridors. He sensed Sigrun and headed into his direction. He found Sigrun meditating and the elf looked up at the vampire as he walked in.

"Don't get stressed about it Sigrun. Ignore everything outside of that arena, ignore the people in the stands. You shouldn't be worrying about your image, though I know you are. This means a lot to you, I understand...but forget those people watching you. You'll be minding them, yourself, your weapons, and your enemy. Too much stuff to worry about. Focus, focus on your enemy and how you can best hit them. If you lose focus for one second...you will go down."

Stephen smiled and patted his friend on the shoulder.

"And you need to calm down, loosen up...streach if you need to."

Sigrun chuckled, then laughed as he heard Stephen's words. He stood and stepped closer. Placing a hand on Stephen's shoulder, he spoke,

"I may be under the burden of those things, but I'm not going to let it burden my mind any more than necessary. Once I'm out there, those thoughts will be gone, for I shall be focused, my mind as sharp as a newly sharpened blade."

Stephen smiled and nodded to his friend. Something clicked in the vampire's mind and he smiled at Sigrun, his fangs glowing red from the torches on the wall.

Stephen’s fist struck Sigrun in the jaw. The elf was knocked against the wall, a slight cut on his lip pushed out a little blood, but none of his teeth were knocked out and his jaw wasn’t broken; yet his friend’s attack confused him. He tried to talk again, but his lower jaw was completely numb, it quickly faded, but his jaw felt like someone had shot him there.

“You’ll be fine, it'll really hurt in a few hours though. I remember….clearly remember just over a thousand years ago, I was still human and you were a vampire. As you know we were enemies, and if you can recall....you had me pinned against a wall with no hope of hurting you. Yet, you broke my arm. I waited over a thousand years to punch you Sigrun...and by God it felt good."

Sigrun felt the anger rising as he recovered from the blow to his jaw. Looking up, he tried to speak, but soon the numbness allowed him to do so, after Stephen had spoken his little explanation.

And instead of viciously reacting, Sigrun began to laugh, long, deeply and heartily. He straightened himself, flexed his jaw and continued to laugh. Stephen was a little taken back by this.

"Uh Sigrun...I just decked the crap out of you..." he began to explain. He was reminded of the old Maximus, with the way Sigrun was laughing almost sinisterly.

Finally, Sigrun ceased laughing and spoke at long last, "Dear Stephen...you really have been holding that as a grudge for so long? You have much to learn of true grudges, my friend..."

Sigrun stepped closer quickly, causing Stephen to step back in surprise, and defensively. Sigrun merely held his hand out, as if he were to take Stephen up on an arm wrestling match in air.

"Your friendship has been a most pleasant relationship Stephen..." Sigrun explained, with a smile.

Stephen was slighlty confused as Sigrun took it so lightly.

"I'm only a fledgling Sigrun, give me a break and time to learn what a 'true' grudge is."

He reached out and shook the elf's hand. The young vampire grinned slightly.

"It has been wonderful knowning you my friend. The last thing I expected when we were enemies was that we would become friends....I also didn't expect turning into a vampire a thousand years later but....what the hell. Well, I guess you should be getting out there. I wish you the best of luck my friend."

Like his forebears, Avto Crusade slid into the coliseum like a wraith, his lightning steps easily allowing him to move quickly and quietly, as he blended well into the shadows. As his pupils flickered sharply in the dim torchlight, Avto narrowed his eyes, his hands tightly gripping his two swords in their sheathes upon his back.

He appeared quietly, behind both Stephen and Sigrun, his gray eyes staring
unremorsefully at the figures of the elf and the vampire.

When the two noticed Avto for the first time, discovering a figure crouched in the shadows, Avto stepped forth into the torchlight, his eyes unblinking as he straightened. In a quiet voice, Avto spoke. “Master Elf, I have returned from the forests that abound in your country. I wish you luck on the challenges that you are about face and hope that they will not be insurmountable like the tasks that faced my great ancestor at the end of his life. If you require assistance, remember that your greatest assets are not your abilities but the presence of your friends. Remember that and you will not fail.” Bowing slightly, Avto stared at Sigrun, waiting for a reaction.

For the first time, Sigrun got a full view of the descendant of Lance Crusade. Avto was yet young, a mere twenty-three years in age but had matured greatly upon the discovery of the burdens and obligations that he had inherited. Clearly, bags had formed under Avto’s eyes denoting the heavy responsibilities that he had accepted. But Sigrun also noticed something else, a feral cunning that had never existed in the other swordmasters of the House of Cala.

Sigrun nodded understandingly, while at the same time realizing that Avto had gone through some changes in his brief disappearance. With a smile he spoke, "You have much before you, young Avto Crusade. Keep your own words at heart as well, for you will find them beneficial."

Sigrun turned to the doors and breathed deeply, taking in the warm air deeply, and expelled it. He spoke, "However, for this, I must do this alone. Such is the purpose of determining my worth for the rule of a great nation. I will keep your presence in the stands in my mind, and this will be enough for me."


I'm not suposed to be scared of anything, but I don't know where I am
I wish that I could move but I'm exhausted and nobody understands how I feel
I'm trying hard to breathe now but there's no air in my lungs
There's no one here to talk to and the pain inside is making me numb.

__________________________________

Out in the Coliseum, thousands of eyes turned to watch a single solitary figure stride toward the middle of the Coliseum's combat circle and raise her hands high. Arleni Greenwood looked around at the audience, and took a deep breath,

"Silence!" she commanded, casting her voice with amplified arcane assistance. A few minutes later, the voices died to a complete silence as all watched the orator in the center of the immense Coliseum.


I try to hold this Under control
They can't help me 'Cause no one knows


"Ladies and Gentlemen, Tarlachians and not, I welcome you with great pride to the Star Trials of Tarlachia!"

A tremendous roar of approval went up as the audience reacted. Arleni held her hands up again, waiting until the silence commanded the tongues.

"For those that may not understand, the Star Trials are a set of trials that are set to challenge one individual to prove his worth in every aspect possible. He will face a variety of tasks, a variety of foes, and he must defeat them all. Only then, will the council, and the Tarlachian population, consider him worthy of rule of the Allied Realms of Tarlachia!"


Now I'm going through changes, changes
God, I feel so frustrated lately
When I get suffocated, save me
Now I'm going through changes, changes


The crowds remained silent, waiting with an expectant energy. Arleni looked around at the audience once more and continued.

"Without further ado, I present to you...the one whom I speak of!"

She turned to the large doors at the end of the Coliseum, and declared, "From the royal bloodlines of the Greenwoods, I declare this challenge to my kin! Do you take this challenge, Sigrun Greenwood?!"

The audience turned their heads toward the gates and watched as they swung open slowly, propelled by gears that groaned under the stress. All eyes pierced the darkness, searching for the challenger.


I'm feeling weak and weary walking through this world alone
Everything you say, every word of it, cuts me to the bone
I've got something to say, but now I've got no where to turn
It feel like I've been buried underneath all the weight of the world.

I try to hold this Under control
They can't help me 'Cause no one knows


Finally, he stepped into the light of the Coliseum and strode with an air of dignity toward Arleni. He stopped several feet from her and looked around, briefly studying the expectant faces. He cast his eyes upwards to the great bowls of fire that illuminated the entire Coliseum. Finally, he turned back to Arleni and declared, "I accept your challenge."


Now I'm going through changes, changes
God, I feel so frustrated lately
When I get suffocated, save me
Now I'm going through changes, changes


The crowds roared in approval. They were going to get their show after all. International reporters activated their cameras, and cameras flashed repeatedly, as they had been since he had emerged from the Hold.

Arleni smiled and declared in a loud voice, "Then let the Star Trials begin!"

She turned to Sigrun and spoke softly, keeping her voice from the audience, "Remain focused my cousin, and you will do just fine."


I'm blind and shakin'
Bound and breaking
I hope I make it through all these changes


Sigrun nodded briefly, and watched as she ran off the field and momentarily emerged in the orator's box where she took a seat and began her first battle announcement.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you, the first challenge!"

Sigrun remained where he was and turned to the large doors at the opposite end of the doors he had come from. It swung open and the great dark pit beyond emitted great roars. The audience cheered in response, eager to see this first battle...


Now I'm going through changes, changes
God, I feel so frustrated lately
When I get suffocated, save me
Now I'm falling apart, now I feel it


Arleni's voice broke the cheering as she spoke once more, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you the twenty centaurs of Greece! Now keep in mind, every one of these challengers have agreed to these Trials, and are willing to die under Sigrun's hand. It is an honor for them to challenge such a legendary warrior, so they shall put him to the test!"

Sigrun watched as twenty centaurs galloped forth from their hold and wielding swords and spears that glinted brightly in the firelight. They came forth and reared upwards in their challenge, all watching the sole combatant before them. Their torsos were covered in steel armor, their horse halves covered in their own appropriate armor. Fearsome they were in appearance.


Now I'm going through changes, changes
God, I feel so frustrated lately
When I get suffocated, I hate this
But I'm going through changes, changes


Sigrun narrowed his eyes and drew the bow from his backside and an arrow immediately. His quiver held thirty arrows, enough to defeat these challengers.

The centaurs charged forth suddenly, their hooves pounding into the packed earth as they raced toward Sigrun...

Sigrun brought the bow up and aimed, releasing the arrow toward the closest centaur. The arrow flew swiftly and buried itself into the human torso's shoulder. The centaur roared in pain, as he was thrown back slightly by the force of the blow, but he kept coming.

The crowds cheered in rabid excitement...

(Song: "Changes" [blue text] respectfully from 3 Doors Down's Away From the Sun album)

Stephen had gone back up into the stands and took his seat next to Hondur. He sat there quietly, not acting like many around him. As Arleni announced Sigrun would be facing centaurs, the vampire raised an eyebrow.

Stephen looked down into the pit, his mouth parted slightly as he saw twenty of the mythogical creatures rush Sigrun. He had to hand it to them, they had great spirit as he saw the one Sigrun had arrowed continued to charge with his comrades.

Stephen looked over at Hondur.

"Do you think Sigrun is going to pass these trials?"

Hondur shruuged at Stephen's question.

"It's difficult to tell, not knowing what challenges lay ahead for Sigrun. He is a competent warrior, but I doubt his skills in combat will be the only aspect of his character tested."

The ancient vampire continued to watch keenly as Sigrun battled the centaurs.

Standing unobtrusively to the side, Avto Crusade calmly watched the events unfolding in the center of the coliseum. With a heavy mental sigh of his inability to participate in the battle that was sure to come, Avto sat back down on a bench, his eyes closed as he slept. Slowly, his spirit began to wander, drifting through time and space, destination unknown...

Elysa watched, her eyes transfixed to the sight before her. She had barely become accustomed to the dragons that had been the object of her fascination, before the ceremony had begun…and how it had begun. The elf, who this was all about, Sigrun faced a hoard of centaurs, of which one would have been bad enough let alone twenty. But then Elysa was not a warrior, nor had she seen these creatures in anything other than films and books.

She turned to Eleán, a frown marring her features. “Can he win?” She asked, her voice indicating that she very much doubted the elf’s ability, based purely on the image before her. “Twenty against one…,” she murmured to herself as she focused her gaze back on the challenge ahead.

"Reminds me of the tournaments."

Quiet reflection of older times. Older times when he fought Qui in that arena. Fought in a freindly. Now, if he fought him, it would be to the death.

He was in the shadows, lost to the crowds and impossible to hear. But he watched, in satisfaction as the combat continued. He kept quiet, watching it all with some amusement. He did hope that Sigrun would be victorious.

Either way, it was still entertaining.

Eleán eyed each of the centaurs and replied to Elysa, not taking his eyes off the fight,

"I'm sure he'll do fine...rumors say that he battled great demons and the likes in the past. If that's true, then centaurs are nothing."

He turned his eyes to Sigrun, and watched as the drama unfolded before the thousands of spectators...

______________________________

As the battle commenced, a band began to play a song filled with feverous pitches of music, highly energetic and bold in its design, powerful and persuasive. It was intended to pull the audience into the very battle itself, metaphorically speaking. (OOC: Think of the song "The Battle" from the movie 'Gladiator', and you've got the idea)

An arrow flew swiftly toward another centaur and pierced the creature's throat. Its momentum was still strong, as it continued charging toward the elf. However, it quickly collapsed to the ground, blood gushing from the wound. The arrow had severed the esophagus, and an artery. Three others had closed the distance quicker, and had their weapons swinging toward Sigrun.

With swift movements, the elf slung the bow and drew Lanta simultaneously. He blocked each of the attacks with bone jarring strength, and leapt onto the backside of one of the Centaurs. The centaur roared in anger as he twisted about to attempt to yank the elf off. He reared onto his hind legs.

The second centaur swung his spear toward Sigrun, which was momentarily shattered in half by the swift bite of the elven sword. The centaur under Sigrun suddenly charged forward, out of the fray, toward the remaining centaurs that had surrounded the fight, waiting to get their chance...

Sigrun swung his arm around the throat of the centaur and squeezed tightly. At first nothing happened as the rampaging beast charged forward, his hooves pounding and spewing earth with each cloven footfall. First it stumbled, then collapsed to its knees as Sigrun maintained a strong choke hold. Moments later, the centaur was down, unconscious.

Suddenly the thundering roar of many hooves resounded with a clash within the Coliseum. Sigrun looked up, snarling as he drew his dagger that hung at his calf. With both blades in hand, he exploded in a run toward the charging centaurs. Spears and swords turned inward toward the elf, yet he dropped to his backside, using his momentum to propell him forward on the packed earth. Lanta and the dagger both swung horizontially, just under the incoming weapons, and bit true and deep into the legs of the centaurs closest to him. Screams of pain was heard as two of the centaurs collapsed, their legs severed under them, or deeply cut. Sigrun leapt to his feet and spun about, his hair swinging along with him. He ran toward the centaurs and drove his sword into their hearts, or decapitated them.

The thunder had begun once more. They were charging for another assault. This time, however, they had packed close together, leaving no room between them. Sigrun cursed slightly as he quickly thought of what to do. The audience was awed as they watched Lanta suddenly seem to continuously duplicate itself and became a blur of motion around Sigrun.

In fact, Sigrun was employing the use of a new combat technique taught to him by Lance Crusade, known to those few who knew of it as the Prancing Dragon, Strike of the Infinite Swords. Sigrun remained still, as the whirlwind of the blade danced with deadly effect around his body. He launched toward the Centaurs and watched as they fell mercilessly before his attack. Bodies became quickly sliced and thrown about, blood and gore going in every direction.

And then there was silence. The blur of motion disappeared and became as one in his hand once more. Sigrun raised his hand to wipe blood from his face as he looked around at the corpses that lay about him. His arm still felt the strong vibrations that seemed to remain, but were only a memory. For a brief moment, his friends saw the same ravenous rage that he had once been known for.

The crowds sat in stunned silence at such a brutal attack. So quickly he had disposed of them, so powerful his attack had been! Arleni's voice broke the silence,

"Sigrun has defeated the centaurs with an attack even I've not seen before! I wonder where he has learned this attack, as it is not of elven design. In fact, it is something much more exotic. An attack from the gods almost!"

Slowly but surely the crowds began to clap, and cheer the gladiator that stood in Coliseum. Arleni's voice bellowed once more,

"It is not over! There is much more to come! Now, we give you the infamous creatures of far-away Australia. The wombats!"

Sigrun cocked his head slightly, "Wombats? What the hell?"

The doors opened once more and hordes of wombats ran forth, scurrying toward Sigrun. Nearly a hundred of them flowed like a river from the gates. Their eyes were filled with a sense of battle, their teeth gnashing and their small clawed feet tearing into the earth.

Sigrun continued to stand in surprise and wonder. "Why the hell would they send wombats?"

The wombat ocean swept swiftly closer, and finally Sigrun snapped out of his incredulous attitude. He raised his hand and cast a fireball toward them. Immediately, it spread upon hitting the ground in front of them, casting the creatures into a fiery prison. Some unfortunate ones ran straight into the flames, and reappeared out the other side as balls of burning flesh and bone running about.

Sigrun drew his bow and promptly fired an arrow toward each of them, watching as they buried into the skulls, and put the little creatures out of their misery.

He turned his attention to the remaining wombats. He directed the flames to spread apart, to allow a restricted access to him. They spewed forth, upon seeing their opponent standing at the ready against them. Lanta was brought up and back into its sheath. Sigrun stood before them, braced in attack position, but weaponless.

He would take them on one by one by hand...

(OOC: Um, Tarl... That attack of the duplication of the sword and its usage in defense is the Infinity Swords Technique, not the other one... Prancing Dragon, Strike of the Infinite Swords, is an offensive technique that causes great vibrations in the user's arm. The vibrations seemingly forms an infinite number of swords, while only one sword exists in actuality. The attack is used to force the opponent to guess where the sword is.

However, your character should know the Infinity Swords Technique, as both Omnus and Lance have used it pretty frequently.)

OOC: Sorry about that. I was drawing off the description of it from the "Passing of the Torch" thread. It seemed to be what I had mistaken it to be. I am only having Sigrun knowing only the two techniques that Lance taught him in that thread.

Stephen smiled and applauded with the rest of the crowd at Sigrun's battle with the cenataurs. He looked closely at his friend and spotted the slight hint of rage that he had once seen flow through him centuries ago. He began to relax back in his seat as Arleni's voice began to blare over the stadiums.

At first he didn't believe that Sigrun would be facing wombats, not until the sea of furballs charged the elf. Stephen's mouth dropped as he watched Sigrun begin to torch the little creatures. He watched as several pounced at Sigrun before being knocked away.

Tough little devils, I don't think these are average wombats.

As Sigrun's battle with the wombats continued, Stephen began to chuckle, then he started to laugh. It was hilarious to the fledgling to see a great elven warrior fight such small animals.

Hondur watched in awe as Sigrun's spinning blade attack devestated the centaurs. He knew the elf was capable ot magiks of elven nature, but that was something he had never seen before. It obviously wasn't elven and Hondur didn't possess the broad knowledge of magic or combat techniques to place it. All he could do was respect Sigrun for accomplishing such a move and be thankful their fued had ended, especially since he wouldn't like to be on the recieving end of that.

The next announcement came as a complete surprise. Hondur knew exactly what a wombat was and couldn't understand how they present much of a challenge, even though they seemed to be under some sort of blood lust. Hondur chuckled at the thought of the Australian RSPCA hunting down the elves of Tarlachia and make them pay for these animal cruelties.

The ancient vampire finally concluded that this challenge must be more on the entertainment side of things as Sigrun obviously wasn't having much trouble battling the rotund marsupials.

Elysa watched enthralled as Sigrun fought the centaurs. As he finished one then began the attack on another, her heart pounded with fear and excitement, sigh after relieved sigh escaping her lips as each of the attackers met their end. And despite all that she had seen today, her mouth dropped open as he performed the trick with his sword. She stood fixed to the spot until finally all the centaurs were lying on the ground.

“Hooray!!” She screamed as the last one hit the ground, her heart pounding in her ears, her breath raspy with excitement. “I can’t believe…,” she gulped in some breath. “I can’t believe he did it.” Turning to Eleán, she smiled before laughing with nervous excitement.

She barely recovered from the first round, and was still grinning at Eleán when the female’s voice boomed around the coliseum, finally making itself heard over the roaring crowds. Turning back to see what was happening, she watched in disbelief as the arena filled with small furry creatures. “Wombats?” She looked back at Eleán incredulously.

The wombats snarled, their voices commingling as one voice as they swarmed around Sigrun. Bites and scratches were inflicted upon Sigrun, but much of them ground against his armor. Some of his exposed flesh however was beginning to be torn to shreds, despite Sigrun moving about rapidly, kicking, snapping the necks, or some other method of disposal of the creatures.


To my surprise
And my delight
I saw a sunrise
I saw a sunlight.

I am nothing
In the dark
And the clouds burst
To show the daylight


Small bodies began to litter the field as Sigrun worked. Several times, he was forced to explode from a position and run in some direction to spread the masses of the wombats about. Yet, they continued to haunt him, chasing after him like rabid creatures.

_________________

Eleán grinned as he watched Sigrun battle the wombats. He hadn’t expected to see such small creatures causing so much trouble, but they were. They were nasty little brutes, but nevertheless, Sigrun was winning. A cry of pain came from Sigrun as one wombat managed to leap up high enough to grab viciously with its teeth onto his hand. Eleán winced, as he saw the blood flowing over the wombat’s fur. Moments later, Sigrun had grabbed a hold of the jaw and pried it off his hand. He tossed the wombat into the air, its helpless body flailing about in an attempt to gain balance. It never touch the ground, for Sigrun leapt to deliver a spinning kick, sending the creature toward a wall. It smashed into the wall, instantly killed by the impact.


Oooh and the sun will shine
Yeah on this heart of mine
Ooooh and I realise
Who cannot live without
Ooooh come apart without

On a hilltop
On a sky-rise
Like a firstborn
Child


“Elysa…are you ok?” Eleán asked as he watched the battle. He could see that she was probably slightly disconcerted by the fact that Sigrun was battling wombats.

____________________

Rikan leaned over to Nathan, “Nasty little buggers…perhaps we should make a little trip to Australia sometime?”

Nathan looked over at her with a skeptical look. Rikan laughed.

_____________________

The crowds cheered once more as Sigrun stood in the arena, the hundred wombats all dead or lying prostrate on the ground. He looked around at them and whispered,

“I’m sorry…It pains me to hurt you as I did. I shall see to your revival of health or proper burial after this…”

He looked up to Arleni, a look of determination on his face. She looked back at him with a raised eyebrow. Finally, she spoke to the audiences,

“The wombats have been defeated, and our gladiator appears to be ready for the next set of foes. These next few sets will consist of representatives of citizens of Tarlachia. First off, we give you the best of the most legendary mercenary groups of the Raxhun! Sigrun is forbidden the use of magic in this fight.”


And at full tilt
And in full flight
Defeat darkness
Breaking daylight


The gates opened and ten rather muscular brutes of men came forth, each wielding their favored weapons.

In the stands, Rikan straightened, as she realized that they were her boys from her mercenary group, “I’ll be damned…” she muttered with a grin. She glanced over to Nathan, and said, “I’ll be back in a bit…”

She took off running into the halls just under the stands. Soon, she appeared beside Arleni and whispered into her ear. Arleni looked at the challengers then back to her once more. “All right. Go.”


Oooh and the sun will shine
Yeah on this heart of mine
Ooooh and I realise
Who cannot live without
Ooooh and come apart without
Daylight


Rikan nodded and leapt over the edge, landing with agility upon the earth. She moved toward her boys and smiled, “You think I was going to let you get this honor by yourselves?”

Slowly breaking through the daylight

“ ‘Course not. We knew you wouldn’t be able to resist the possibility.’ “

Slowly breaking through the daylight

Rikan turned to Sigrun and nodded. He nodded in return. Rikan commanded the mercs to attack. Swiftly, they moved about the Coliseum, spreading about Sigrun. Sigrun spun to eye each of them.

Slowly breaking through the daylight

Rikan unclicked her bracer blades on her arms and moved into position. The group charged as one toward Sigrun. However, Rikan held back, to analyze and watch Sigrun battle her compatriots. One by one, he took them down, with blows from Lanta, or well-placed kicks. He used no spells, as determined by the rules.

Slowly breaking through the daylight

Finally, at long last, the last man fell under Sigrun’s might and skill. He spun about to face Rikan, his last opponent. He was bruised and bloodied, but his stamina had kept him going.

Slowly breaking through the daylight

Rikan returned his gaze and bowed respectfully, crossing her blades in an X across her chest. She straightened and moved her foot back, turning her body slightly. Her hand raised and beckoned ever so slightly.

Slowly breaking through the daylight

Sigrun, wielding Lanta, charged forth with the sword in both hands and held to the side. His hair flew out behind him, stained with the earth, and blood of his foes. His clothing not covered by armor had become torn, giving him an appearance of a street person, dirty and gruesome in appearance.

Slowly breaking through the daylight

The clashing of metal was heard as Rikan deftly raised her blades up to parry the onslaught of the elven warrior. Sparks flew from the blades biting angrily into each other, as the two warriors battled. Both were agile, both were swift in their attacks. A blade here sliced the left leg of Rikan, but was returned moments later with a cut to Sigrun’s face. Only Sigrun’s swift reaction had kept her from mortally wounding him.

Slowly breaking through the daylight

The two continued battling, as magnificiently as could be, yet locked in ferocious combat…

Slowly breaking through the daylight
Slowly breaking through the daylight

Song: “Daylight” by Coldplay, from A Rush of Blood To The Head album

Stephen sat and watched as Sigrun finished off the wombat horde. He couldn't help but feel sorry for the little furballs, he had a soft spot for animals. He sat and watched the Raxhun enter the arena. Don't want to mess with those fellas.

He concentrated on the woman who Sigrun now faced. He didn't know who she was, but she obviously had great skill. Stephen made a mental note to get her name afterward.

Elysa watched, still in a kind of semi-shock, her face full of fascination and alarm. She had never been to such an event before, this time of challenge had lost itself a long time ago in Tartarus’ history, even though some claim it was more recent than some believed. She kept her gaze fixed to the spectacle before her, only moving her eyes once the wombats all lay dead on the ground.

She turned her head to Eleán about to speak, her mouth opening but no words coming out, as her attention was drawn back to the arena, but the female voice announcing the next challenge. “More?” Her voice was soft, barely audible, as her eyes followed the battle taking place before her. Her fingers played with the fabric of her dress anxiously, as she watched in wonder.

The battle grew in intensity as Sigrun shifted to the defensive, managing to keep both of the blades from Rikan at bay. A suddenly slash was dealt unto his arm, drawing fresh blood onto Rikan's blade. Sigrun delivered a kick to her stomach, but she leapt clear of most of it, recieving only a tap. She grinned, and licked the blood off the blade.

"Mighty fine fighting there, boyo..." she commented, before launching back at him with a spinning slash. Sigrun leaned back, just as a blade swung right over his face.

You stand before me
Now we stare eye to eye
Before another second clicks away, one of us will die
You reach for your metal as I reach for mine
The sound of bullets flying through the air is followed by a cry

Lanta swung out with a crying song of elven tunes and smacked the dual blades down and away. Sigrun immediately pressed and brought the sword to the woman's throat in a swift movement that ended with her on the ground.

Rikan gasped, feeling the elven silver steel pressing into her throat. She froze under Sigrun's attack, now lying upon the ground.

She was in checkmate. Both knew it. Another move, and he would drive the sword to finish its bloodthirst. Sigrun looked up to the audience. He locked eyes with Arleni, "Well? Live or Die?" he declared. His breaths were fast and pulled in air to his burning lungs. It had been a truly wonderful battle.

And they're cryin'

The crowds roared in response, a variety of calls for mercy, but mostly drowned out by a majority of voices crying "Death!"

What will we do, what will we say when it’s the end of this game that we play?
Will we crumble into the dust, my friend
Or will we start this game over again?

Sigrun looked around at the audience once more. They were on their feet, cheering their responses. They were rabid with excitement, their very passions seeming to rock the architecture under them, as impossible as it was.

The young man lies alone but fastened into the ground
The sound of fleeing feet and the cryin' eye will be his last sound

To the surprise of the audience, he stood and stepped back. Rikan remained on the ground, looking up at him in surprise and wonder.

"Hey fly boy...you were supposed to kill me."

Sigrun looked down at her and shook his head, "No. You earned your life."


But do we gain from all this?
Now, was it worth a life? No
We throw all of our hopes away
And set our dreams aside

Sigrun turned to Arleni only to see her smiling broadly. She finally declared, "Sigrun has passed one of the tests, the exhibition of mercy in times of battle. Only wisdom can cause this! What say you, o people of Tarlachia?!"

The crowds roared in approval...

Now we’re cryin'

Arleni raised her hands, commanding silence once more. "He is not done. There is much more to come!"

What will we do, what will we say when it’s the end of this game that we play?
Will we crumble into the dust, my friend
or will we start this game over again
It’s coming back to me
It’s coming back to me

Arleni's voice continued, explaining, "Now, we give to you the representative of the Moonwalkers!"

The gates opened, and Rikan strode past Sigrun, only pausing to comment briefly to him, "Go get 'em boyo. Thank you." She disappeared through the gates. Moments later, another single figure strode forth. He wore dark gothic clothing of leather and cloth. His skin was pale, his fangs illuminated in the artificial lighting of the Coliseum. He seemed to draw a source of fear with him, and the fear could be felt throughout the stadium. Many of those in the audience cried out softly in their fear, so potent and deadly it seemed.

Sigrun merely smiled. He brought Lanta to bear, and waited. The vampire remained just outside the gates as they swung shut behind him. He glanced about the coliseum, noticing that many of the younger audience members hid behind their parents' backs, wishing he would go back to the darkness of the Gates.

What will we do, what will we say when it’s the end of this game that we play?
Will we crumble into the dust, my friend
or will we start this game over again?

With a blood-curdling roar, he suddenly drew his sword and charged with vampiric speed toward Sigrun. Sigrun leapt sideways, swinging the blade at the speeding vampire's stomach...

OOC: Song is "Dangerous Game" from Three Doors Down's Away From The Sun CD

Stephen watched the deadly ballet between Sigrun and Rikan. As the crowd began to cheer for death, he sat quietly. The vampire gazed through the crowd down at the arena and smiled as Sigrun let Rikan walk away with her life.

Stephen looked down as the vampire walked into the arena. Older than me...heck, every vampire is older than me. Stephen sat quietly, wondering how Sigrun would fair against a vampire.

Hondur watched the battle between Sigrun and Rikan with mild amusement. He didn't like the female, she was arrogant and perhpaps just a little to self confident. She may a vampire hunter, but Hondur doubted she had ever faced a true vampire, one older than a thousand.

Finally Sigrun earned his victory over Rikan and allowed her to live. Hondur would have done the same thing as he didn't particularly enjoy killing, especially for no reason. He couldn't say the same for Skadi.

This new vampire didn't particularly impress Hondur either. A vampire of reasonable age and strenght. He doubted Sigrun would have much trouble with this one. A smile crossed the old vampire's lips as he remembered the epic battle between himself and Maximus, many hundreds of years ago.

Lanta had a strange glow about it as it slashed and stabbed toward the vampire with deadly force. Each time the blade managed to bite into the vampire's flesh, Sigrun's ears nearly split themselves with the vampire's screeching howls of pain. The vampire disappeared from in front of Sigrun, and maneuvered behind him, gripping his throat with a forearm and squeezing with incredible strength.

I've lied to you
The same way that I always do
This is the last smile
That I'll fake for the sake of being with you

Surprised, Sigrun dropped Lanta and struggled against the constricting hold. He struggled about, yet the vampire held his grip.

(Everything falls apart
Even the people who never frown
Eventually break down)
The sacrifice of hiding in a lie
(Everything has to end

Sigrun's mind screamed at him to get the vampire off. His arms fell limp to the sides as he dropped to his knees. Satisfied the vampire released the elf and raised his hands in triumphant victory. He roared his self-glorification, his muscles glistening with cold sweat as he turned about and continued to roar at the audience, "A battle to the death, he has lost!"

The vampire turned, having forgotten about the elf in his moment of glory. He never saw the elf stealthily grasp the handle of Lanta and spin the blade about plunging the blade backward and upwards with ferocious speed.

You'll soon find we're out of time left
To watch it all unwind)
The sacrifice is never knowing


The roaring was halted abruptly as the vampire looked down as he felt a new wave of pain pierce his heart and protrude out the front of his chest. Lanta being anti-demonic began to work its specially designed spells on the vampire's body. First the flesh around the blade blackened and began to smolder. Then, single rays of green, blue and white lights ripped through many parts of his body, ranging from his head to his toes.

Why I never walked away
Why I played myself this way
Now I see you're testing me pushes me away
Why I never walked away
Why I played myself this way
Now I see your testing me pushes me away

To those that watched in fascination, it was clear to see that the vampire was being torn apart and devoured by Lanta in a most painful manner...

The vampire roared once more in defiance as he suddenly exploded, the enchanted blade burning off the flesh and bone of the vampire off its edges. Sigrun had not moved, the sword still tucked next to his body, a hand on the hilt of the blade with the other hand holding the sword still. He grinned and stood, spinning the sword about in his hand and lowering it.

I've tried like you
To do everything you wanted too
This is the last time
I'll take the blame for the sake of being with you

He turned and looked around at the audience, "Is that all you've got?!" he challenged with his arms outstretched. Lanta had died down in its properties, yet many eyes watched it as well as Sigrun. Old friends could see the once familiar blood lust that had grown in Sigrun's eyes. In a way, it all too reminded them the truth that no matter how much he had changed, one thing was still the same.

He was still Maximus...

"IS THAT ALL YOU'VE GOT?!" he roared to the audience once more...

A resounding, deep, and powerful roar answered Sigrun's challenge. All eyes turned to locate the source of the voice that had responded. The dragon perched next to Hondur suddenly lifted quickly into the sky on its massive wings and swooped low over the audience and landed heavily on the blood soaked dirt opposite Sigrun.

(Everything falls apart
Even the people who never frown
Eventually break down)
The sacrifice of hiding in a lie
(Everything has to end
You'll soon find we're out of time left
To watch it all unwind)
The sacrifice is never knowing

Arleni's voice announced the battle to the audience, "Pyros, one of the strongest fire elemental dragons of Tarlachia has taken the arena. Please, parents, keep your children close, and away from the interior wall. We will have personnel raising defense shields for the safety of the audience. An interesting note for you all to know: Pyros was once the mount of the great Maximus Destroi...Sigrun is his old master and friend!" Random gasps and voices scattered throughout the audience.

Sigrun raised his head to look into the eyes of the fire dragon and smiled. He bowed respectfully and sheathed Lanta. He brought his arms to the sides, magical energies charging rapidly as he prepared for the impending battle. The dragon flicked its great tail about, and beat its wings. Small flickers of flame spew forth from the slightly open mouth. It's great clawed feet gouged the earth in great fissures that clearly marked only a fraction of the dragon's great strength.


Why I never walked away
Why I played myself this way
Now I see you're testing me pushes me away
Why I never walked away
Why I played myself this way
Now I see you're testing me pushes me away
(We're all out of time
This is how we find how it all unwinds)
The sacrifice of hiding in a lie
(We're all out of time
This is how we find how it all unwinds)
The sacrifice is never knowing
Why I never walked away
Why I played myself this way
Now I see you're testing me pushes me away
Why I never walked away
Why I played myself this way
Now I see you're testing me pushes me away
Pushes me away


The shields finished rising and creating a dome over the center of the arena...

Pyros roared and immediately sent a scorching blast of hot flames toward Sigrun. He instantly reacted bringing up a shield that enveloped his form in a half circle. The flames broiled about the shield and dispersed as they leapt to the surrounding ground and remained there, burning away at the flesh of previous fighters against Sigrun...

((OOC: Song is 'Pushing Me Away' From Linkin Park's Hybrid Theory album.))

Stephen stood up during Sigrun's fight with the vampire. He couldn't believe it, Sigrun was down. Stephen stared at Sigrun's form, hoping that he would get up. He smiled as the elf's sword plunge into the vampire's flesh. The young vampire sat back down in his seat. Never let your guard down.

He stared at Sigrun, and smiled. Though he was now an elf, he was the same person he remembered as a vampire. Stephen felt a gust of air that nearly sent him out of his seat as the dragon flew down into the arena. He looked down at the massive creature compared to Sigrun.

Stephen's eyes bulged slightly as he heard of how Sigurn was connected to the beast. This will definatly be more interesting than the other battles.

Hondur watched the battle with the vampire calmly. Even when Sigrun fell to his knees and appeared to be down for the count, Hondur remained seated. He could hear Sigrun's heartbeat, it was not that of a near dead man.

Waiting expectantly, Hondur smiled when Lanta plunged into the back of the vampire and tore him apart. Noting to himself that the decision to forget their fued was a good idea, Hondur applauded Sigrun's victory.

Without warning, Hondur was knocked off his seat by a strong gust as the dragon next to him launched off the stadium and plunged towards the battle ground. Hondur was surprised to hear this Dragon was once companion to Maximus and was curious to see this battle. Hondur had never seen a dragon until this night and seeing one in combat was a speacial treat.

Pyros (http://www.eaglehart.com/ladyranea/dragons/solaris_rt2.jpg)

As soon as the flames dissappated, Sigrun launched forward toward Pyros with surprising speed for an elf. He leapt high, latching onto the dragon's elongated neck and flipping around to the topside. Pyros roared, his voice shattering mugs and other objects with the sheer intensity of the roar.

I'm on the run, I kill to eat
I'm starving now, feeling dead on my feet
Going all the way, I'm natures beast
Do what I want and do as I please

Pyros thrashed his head about as Sigrun managed to ascend upwards and grip with strength on the dragon's scales protruding from the back of the head. He gripped the left horn with one hand and swung himself about to land atop the head. However, it wasn't going to work, whatever he had in mind, and he was instantly thrown into the air with ferocity, his hapless body flying upwards and tumbling about.

Run - Fight - To breathe - It's tough
Now you see me now you don't
Break the walls I'm coming out

Pyros released another blast of fire at Sigrun while he flew upward into the night sky. His spiral of flame illuminated the night sky, casting a bright hue almost as bright as the sunrise about. Sigrun managed to set up a reflect spell that countered and sent the fire back toward the dragon. Naturally, it did nothing as it slammed into a large wing. He looked down at the ground as he descended rapidly without restraint. He cast another spell, a jelly-like substance that absorbed his fall, and set him onto his feet. He exploded out of the jelly and launched into yet another arcane attack on the dragon, this time, a water blast that slammed deep into the dragon's blast of fire that had begun spiraling toward hiim as well.

Not a prisoner I'm a free man
And my blood is my own now
Don't care where the past was
I know where I'm going ...out!

For a few moments, the two blasts neutralized each other equally, and seemed to even fuse at the center, with all the mist and small sparks of flame that were a result of the clashing elements. Sigrun released a battle cry as he exerted more strength into the attack, and sure enough, the water began to dominate, and suddenly overtake the rest of the flames, slamming into the dragon's mouth. The dragon's head whiplashed backwards, turning away in defense. Pyros spun at this time and whipped his tail about. Sigrun had anticipated this and leapt vertically, just as the massive tail swung underneath.

If you kill me it's self defense
And if I kill ya' then I call it vengeance
Spit in your eye I will defy
You'll be afraid when I call out your name

As he fell, he began yet another spell and used his momentum to slam his heels into the earth. With a ferocity unseen by many, the earth suddenly heaved and shook as great piers of rock spewed upwards and raced toward Pyros. They slammed into the dragon with a surprising brutality and threw him toward the dome's edge nearest Zero and Arleni. The dome shook violently, but held the massive dragon contained inside.

Run - Fight - To breathe - It's gonna be tough
Now you see me now you don't
Break the walls I'm coming out

A few moments passed as Pyros reoriented himself and placed his feet on the walls. He launched himself off the wall, spreading his wings and gliding low over the ground, claws extended, reaching for Sigrun. Great gusts of wind followed his flight, sweeping up great clouds of sand and dirt into the air. Great billows of the earthen dust rose and covered the field, casting the two combatants thickly. The spectators leaned forward, trying to discern the two combatants in the dome surrounded battlefield, but had great difficulty.

Not a prisoner I'm a free man
And my blood is my own now
Don't care where the past was
I know where I'm going

Inside the dome, Sigrun dropped completely to the ground, just as Pyros swept over the elf, swooping upwards and backwards to avoid colliding into the edge of the dome. He swept back down for another pass this time bringing his clawed feet underneath his torso, with the intent of snatching the elf in his powerful grip.

Sigrun was back on his feet, following his gaze with the swirls of dust that followed the great beast's movements. He was ready to put this beast down once and for all. He started running as fast as he could toward the incoming dragon. His hands charged with energy and suddenly cast forward ahead as he simultaneously leapt upon the backside of the dragon. The arcane balls of energy slammed into each of Pyros' eyes, and set a shield over them, blinding him. The dragon's clawed feet scratched into the earth and slowed quickly. Sigrun held on and then launched spells rapidly about the dragon. Great stone boulders rose from the earth and clamped down on the dragon's limbs, tail, neck and snout.

I'm not a number I'm a free man
Live my life where I want to
You'd better scratch me from your black book
Coz' I'll run rings around you

The dust settled quickly, and the audience finally saw the battle's results. Sigrun stood on the dragon's neck, a foot on the crown of the head. He raised a fist into the air and bellowed a roar of victory.

((Song is "The Prisoner" from Iron Maiden's Number Of The Beast album))

The stadium was quiet for several seconds followig Sigrun's victory, Stephen was one of the first to stand and begin to applaude. He looked down at Pyro and smiled as he saw the chest of the dragon rising and falling. He could not believe that battle that had happened before him. Stephen remembered when he was a kid reading fantasy stories of knights defeating dragons, but this fight took the cake.

He sat down and looked at Hondur.

"Well, that would certainly get the blood flowing."

Hondur was quite impressed. He couldn't claim he would be able to defeat a dragon, especially one that breathed fire, a vampire's bane. Remaining seated as the crowd erupted into cheers, Hondur merely watched his ex-rival as he celebrated his victory.

Hondur looked over at Stephen with an arched eyebrow.

"Perhaps in a living creature... not in us. Our blood doesn't flow."

Stephen looked at the older vampire, slightly confused.

"So...we are actually dead? Or uh..what is a better way to phrase...you better just try and explain it to me Hondur."

Hondur smiled at the confused Stephen.

"In a medical sense, we are dead. Our heart does not beat and therefore our blood does not flow. If you cut yourself, you will notice very little blood comes out before it heals, unless something is sucking on the blood or gravity is at work. Our brains on the other hand are a different matter. They are far more active than the ordinary human brain, hence our mental powers and ability to retain vast amounts of knowledge. So we are dead, and alive. There isn't really a scientific way to explain all of this, you should ask Skadi about it some time."

Hondur seemed content with that explanation and didn't say anymore.

Stephen showed great suprise in learning what Hondur told him. He sat back in his chair, very stunned by this. For the first time in his vampiric life, he moved his hand to his heart and instead of feeling a beat, he felt nothing. He put on a black leather glove and pulled out the silver handled Wolf Knife.

Stephen cut his finger and watched as only a tiny drop oozed. The vampire licked it away and the blood on the blade. He put the knife away and took off the glove. He looked at Hondur.

"Your right. After Skadi wakes up and gets on track and all...I have a couple questions for her, unless I figure them out before she wakes up. Hondur, do you mind if I ask you if you enjoy your vampiric lifestyle? Do you ever wish you could become human again?"

A slight grin crossed Hondur's face as he remembered his pre-vampiric life and pondered on what life would have been like if Skadi hadn't turned him.

"Before I became a vampire, I was a politician. I wasn't in any particularly imporant position, but my career had only just begun and I was doing well. This was around the time when vampiric population had become too big for the government to ignore and there was talk of giving vampires a recognised citizenship. I was one of the strongest voices against this and demanded that vampires be hunted down and either banished of exterminated."

Hondur allowed Stephen to take in what he'd just been told before continuing.

"Skadi being Skadi, she turned me to a vampire, just to see how I would like it. Thankfully, those laws I was campaigning for weren't passed and I could live without government persecution. Of course there were laws about feeding that the such that Skadi held complete contempt for and she eventually earned us names as criminals."

"And so I was reborn into a life of violence and being a fugitive of sorts. Yet I learned many things. I can defend myself adequately, I have a massive residence and plenty of company, I won't naturally die and I don't get sick. Many things have changed since then I don't think I would have made it if I'd stayed human. Some vampire would have eventually got me. There are things that I have missed... but one cannot always have everything they want."

Stephen listened quietly to what Hondur was saying.

"Politician? Would of never figured you for one. All the politicans I met as a human...retired and in service were stuck up bueracrats who knew nothing of fighting. Only a few were ex-military...still they were hard to trust. Thought you were part of some seperate anti-vampire movement, not part of the goverment. Thankfully for me, don't have to worry about that in the Golden Simatar."

Stephen leaned back in his chair and looked up into the night sky and stared at the stars for a little while before speaking.

"In my human years as a young boy, the sun was a bad thing giving me bad sunburn...or a wonderful thing. Never really thought about it...but now. The only think I miss when I was a human, is seeing the sunrise. Something I never really thought of...is the only thing I really miss. What is the thing you have missed most Hondur?"

Hondur pondered upopn Stephen's question for a few minutes before replying slowly.

"It's a hard choice, but I'd have to say I miss the time and freedom the most. When I was a human, I could be up all day and all night and go almost anywhere. These days, I have to either sleep during the day or hide out in a dark hole. There is always something to do, and our weakness towards sunlight gives us little time to do it in. Of course we essentially have eternity, but do you understand what I mean?"

Stephen sat there and nodded to what Hondur was saying.

"Freedom...didn't think about that. Maybe in a few centuries, we could find some way to defeat the sun. Get more time to do things you want to do. Would be nice for me to visit old battlefields I have only been able to go at night and have to rush to a cave or an empty motel room before dawn."

Stephen paused and looked over at the ancient.

"I would like to know something Hondur. Do you think our kind should be registered citizens of a nation like some vampires are in Assington? It would probably make life easier."

Elean leaned over to Elysa and smiled at the excited look on her face. He spoke to her, "An exciting series of battles...I am quite impressed at Master Sigrun's ability to defeat that Pyros! Truly a feat worthy of a king!"

*******************

Zero stood to his feet and cheered as Sigrun defeated his latest opponent. Aeris was also on her feet next to him, cheering. Strangely though, she had a strange...essence about her.

As if she were connecting to all of this in a most peculiar way...

*******************

A draman stood not too far from Hondur and Stephen and growled visibly. He turned and departed his seat with a scowl upon his scaled face. Any who cared to look at him would see that he was a strong looking brute, and held a rather nasty looking blade at his waist. His skin was silvery, marking him as one of the lunar dramans.

He moved through the halls behind the stadium seats, passing several vendors and other visitors to the Star Trials. He glanced about momentarily, making sure the coast was clear before disappearing through a door in the back of one of the vendor shops.

*******************

Arleni's voice commanded the attention of the crowds once more as she praised Sigrun's latest victory.

"An excellent display of pure skill and combat from Sigrun! The same can be said for Pyros as well. He truly gave Sigrun a difficult battle in many respects!"

A snort of smoke puffed from Pyros' nostrils as Sigrun released the rocks that bound him to the earth. Pyros reared up and looked down at Sigrun. He brought his head in close and spoke to Sigrun telepathically, a link they had shared for a long, long time.

Still can beat me old one. Pyros commented. Sigrun laughed telepathically, You still make me afraid for my life with the way you fight Pyros...

Pyros had his turn to laugh in response before beating his wings powerfully and moving back to his perch. The shield went down to allow him to pass. Afterwards, it was moved back up as a series of elves worked to add a few more spells to the shield.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, we apologize for the wait, as our next set of battles requires a great deal of preparation. The level of danger that will exist is necessary to be contained within the arena alone..."

A new rash of whispers and speculation rose as a single figure was admitted into the Arena. He flew down on four seraphim wings, bearing a staff with a unique stone inlaid into it. His name was Liam, and his strength was quite noticeable as well...

Hondur looked over to Stephen.

"That depends entirely on your perspective. If I were still in the government, I'd be endorsing registered vampire programs. It would help track down those that fed from the public or used their abilities for crime and general thugs. The problem is, there is a deep rivalry between humans and vampires. Most humans think of vampires as mindless creatures whilst most vampires think of humans as lesser beings. Either way, it isn't easy for us to get along."

Hondur took a pause for Stephen to take that in before offering his own opinion.

"From my point of view, I'd prefer to stay unregistered. It means I can feed where I like, do what I like, live where and how I like. Whilst I have these liberties, I don't abuse them. I don't intentionally go out, trying to cause trouble and therefore I am not a high priority for the VP. I'm sure they have records of me, but I try to keep low. There are several 'priveleges' that we have not being registered and I would like to keep them."

Hondur stopped speaking as he watched the newest figure enter the arena. He immediately shyed away from the angelic figure, his demonic blood fuelling a hatred he had never seen before. Thankfully, it wasn't strong and Hondur was able to quench it with sheer will.

Elysa looked at Eleán, her face a mix of many emotions; excitement, fear and wonder flashed over her features in quick succession. As each new challenge appeared, it was almost as if she herself were standing facing the opponents, rather than just watching from a safe distance. “He truly is worthy of being the king…even if my judgement does not have years of experience behind it.” She smiled, before turning her gaze back to the arena.

“How much more does he have to face?” She was surprised as each round came to an end and challenge following challenge was thrown at the future king. She, like Eleán, was impressed by the performance of the warrior in the arena. If she had been standing in Sigrun’s shoes, she knew that she would never have gotten as far as he had. Flicking her eyes back to her companion, she smiled. “I am honoured to have been able to witness this. I don’t think I will ever see anything like it again.”

Eleán shook his head, "As many as they deem necessary to test his abilities. This could end at the next battle, or ten battles from now. We can only watch and wait."

He held his hand out and a small lembas bread appeared in his hand. He offered it to Elysa as he took his own and munched upon it, watching the new figure in the ring. He spoke in between bites, "Interesting that a seraphim is here. I wonder why?"

He didn't have to wonder for long...

*******************

Liam strode toward the center of the Arena and looked about to gauge a few calculations in his mind. He turned his attention to Arleni and nodded briefly. She raised a hand and gave the signal for the dome shield to be completed. It did so with a sudden flash of light, causing the audience to gasp in surprise, before it dimmed to a light blue transparant glow. It bore a number of intricate, complex designs on the outer layer. They were runes of the shield, designed to keep the shield from being penetrated from either the interior or the exterior. It was its own containment dome, it's own coffin of grand scale.

Liam thrust his staff into the center of the field, the topmost stone suddenly emitting a powerful light that shone in every direction. The earth shook and trembled with ferocity, alarming everyone in the stands. They watched in awe as a dark construct split the earth and rose from the depths of the land. The seraphim's clothing seemed to be glowing now, merely reflecting the powerful holy figure that they clothed modestly. Liam clenched his jaw as he beheld the great Inchion Gate that rumbled to twenty feet in height. It held great dark runes and faces upon the gate, and words of warning to intruders. A dark, solemn voice uttered its warning to the crowds and particularly the one who had risen the Gate Beware for your venture brings you to peril. Through this gate lies Hell, and its children.

Liam held his hand out and placed it upon a seal and spoke in an ethereal tongue, the words cryptic to all in the Arena. One by one, the runes on the Gate began to glow a pearly white and the earth trembled with each rune.

Liam rose from the ground and bore his staff in hand as he beheld the Gate suddenly spasm a crimson, liquid substance out in several directions, before settling back into the Gate.

He rose higher into the sky, until he floated above the earth at the peak of the dome. He turned his eyes to Sigrun, who had his own eyes upon the Gate in wonder.

Sigrun felt the dark emotions first hitting him.

Rage. The snarling eyes that peered from the Gate...

Hatred. The desire to kill...

Murder. The wanton lust for blood of all that was good, of all that dared to defy the dark spawn of the Abyss.

Hell was on Earth...

Sigrun drew Lanta and noticed that it now glowed a magnificient aura of its own. He drew the sword in front of him and crouched into a defensive position, with the sword held in both hands.

But something was different about him.

He felt fear...

OOC: Sorry dudes, sorry for being so absent so long. I hope this next post will fix everything for you all.

IC: It had been an entertaining night so far, and Zero thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it, especially since it spoke to the bloodlust in him, one that he had kept throughout all of his unlife. And while the bloodshed did not exactly appeal to Aeris, for all the faces that she was making, she was still cheering now, cheering for the sheer skill and will of Sigrun, even in the face of his old stead, Pyros.

"Remind me never to underestimate Sigrun, love. Especially not if I have to face a battle against him", Zero commented, only half-jokingly. His hand was stroking the blade of the precious Dragon Saber, which along with its sister Treasure Blade, the Heaven Sword, had begun to glow purplish, in anticipation of Zero's sudden thirst for battle. Even after seeing the incredible power of Sigrun Greenwood in battle, Zero was literally lusting for a battle against his old friend. "Why not, Sigrun? After all, you do still owe me for the three times you screwed me over since we last met", he thought humorously to himself. For a moment, he wondered if he could not somehow haggle with whoever was organizing this whole Star Trial thing for a slot to spar with one of the few people he had ever respected in his whole life.

"Don't hurt Uncle Sigrun too bad if that happens, Raph. Or I will ignore you", Aeris retorted jokingly. No longer did she call him "Master Zero", but the love and respect for him was still there. It's just that, over the events of the past year, she had elevated herself to an equal footing with the one who had brought her under his protection, and very likely will surpass his power if she continued to grow the way she was doing. But love is love, and she had already decided she would stay by his side, no matter what happened.

To say that the appearance of Liam shocked the immortal lovers was a bit of an understatement.

"Liam!", Zero exclaimed, unable to believe that the leader of the Celadrin Clan had just challenged Sigrun to a duel. "What is he doing here? Surely he can't be......."

"I don't know, Zee!", Aeris exclaimed in return, reeling from the shock of seeing them in the same arena. "I hope they're not going to......."

But what she had hoped was far less worse than what actually happened, as Liam summoned the Inchion Gate.

"No! NO! LIAM! How could you! How could you bring this evil upon Sigrun!" Zero exclaimed, unable to believe that Liam could bring it into his heart to unleash the evil the Celadrin had to face not so long ago, upon Sigrun, and Sigrun alone. Neither could Aeris, who was close to tears now, and they were both helpless.

"I got to pray for him. For Uncle Sigrun", Aeris whispered suddenly, and knelt down, clasping her hands in front of her lips. In that very instant, the essence of Aerial was summoned from her, and her clothes, while already white, now glowed with divine light, summoning an aura of goodwill that permeated through the crowd around her. And yet.......it was not purely divine. The aura from her now felt like it was mixed with an aura of another kind, one that felt like the fresh and sweet dew, one that felt......Elvish.

Zero stared at her, wondering what this was all about. Ever since he had received the heavenly blessing from the Nephilim for finding and caring for one of their own, he had been able to face Aeris's power where his dark essence had not been able to tolerate before. But the Elvish feeling that Aeris now exuded was new to him altogether, and it awakened a primal hunger within him, something that he had not felt with his human victims........and something that he had felt, but kept suppressed until he was numb to it, with Sigrun. Breaking his gaze away from her, Zero turned back to the shielded arena, now thinking of what he could do, and unable to find any answers.

Then his hand went to the necklace he wore, and the artifact upon it. The Nightshade Amulet, entrusted to him by Liam Celadrin, and its power enhanced by the heavenly blessing. Now, where he had used it to travel in daylight before, now he could use it to actually manipulate shadows and energies arising from the dark, which was a far more useful ability than it was credited for. Moreover, by concentrating a portion of his own power into the Amulet itself, he could pass the Amulet to someone else, and that person could use a measure of Zero's power until as and when Zero claimed back the Amulet. And that was what Zero did now, concentrating part of his dark essence into the Amulet, and ripping it off his neck.

He looked at the arena once more, paying attention to the energy shielding put up by the Elves. He didn't know if he could accomplish it, but......he noticed that the tendrils of green Elvish light, exuded by Aeris, was now curling themselves around the Nightshade Amulet, as if attracted by it somehow........perhaps the residue of Elvish energy surrounding the Amulet would help it pass the shielding.

With a heave, Zero threw the Amulet, right at Sigrun. It was a long way away, and there was no guarantee it could even pass the shield to reach Sigrun. But Zero felt honor-bound to try to help an old friend........

Taking the bread, Elysa placed it against her mouth, but never bit into it. Her eyes were once again transfixed at the sight before her. A look of confusion and fear etched into her features. She did not know what Sigrun was about to face, but she could feel the darkness surrounding the gate. As she watched a shiver of fear rushed over her body, and she knew that the man facing it must be feeling it much more intensified.

She wanted to turn, to ask Eleán about what was happening, but she was frozen in her spot. Her eyes were unable to move from the spectacle happening in the Arena. The Lembas bread remained poised at her lips. She looked and felt as if she had been turned into a statue, only the rise and fall of her chest indicated life.

Woe to you, O Earth and Sea,
For the Devil sends the Beast with wrath,
for he knows the time is short.
Let he who hath understanding
reckon the Number of the Beast,
for it is a human number.
Its number is six-hundred and sixty-six.


The amulet flew from Zero's hand through the air, the chain following in a streamlined movement behind the amulet. Arleni's quick elven eyes caught the stone flying through the air. She quickly reversed its trajectory path and saw Zero standing there, hoping against hope the amulet would be allowed through. She watched as the amulet bounced against the shield and fell to the feet of one of the elves holding the shield up. She sent a telepathic message to the elf.

I left alone my mind was blank
I needed time to get the memories from my mind

Sigrun gulped, taking a few steps back in anticipation of the impending battle that was about to begin. He looked up to Liam, who watched with a grim expression on his face. Suddenly, a slight flash of light to his right caused him to turn his head. He watched as an elf tossed a small object into the Arena.

What the... he thought to himself as he made a quick decision to get over there and find out what it was...

What did I see can I believe that what I saw
that night was real and not just fantasy

The amulet was held in his grasp as Lanta hummed in his other hand. He recognized the clan symbol. Celadrin... He turned his head to the audience, scanning the nearby faces. There. His eyes locked with Zero's own, and he nodded. He slung the amulet around his neck, releasing his grip upon it.

Just what I saw in my old dreams were they
reflections of my warped mind staring back at me

The screeches and roars that suddenly exploded into the hearing of all those present was accompanied by literally what seemed to be hundreds of demonic beings of many sizes and shapes issuing forth from the Inchion Gate. Sigrun turned in surprise, and grew pale as he saw the creatures.

Cos in my dreams it's always there the evil face that twists my mind
and brings me to despair

A green glow suddenly illuminated the field as Sigrun cast his first defensive line against the raging wave of evil that flowed toward him. Sigrun swung Lanta through the nearest demon, a humanoid like demon with a whip-like tail. The chest of the demon felt the power of Lanta slice cleanly through and it screeched in high decibels as it died before Sigrun's attack. It was, however, lost amongst the several other creatures that fell to Sigrun's swift movements.

The night was black was no use holding back
Cos I just had to see was someone watching me
In the mist dark figures move and twist
was all this for real or some kind of hell
666 the Number of the Beast
Hell and fire was spawned to be released

Bodies fell haphazardly around the elven warrior, demonic blood splattering and covering his entire body. Still, he fought, as the bitter fighting continued. It seemed that the elven warrior just wouldn't fall...

Suddenly, Lanta was knocked out of Sigrun's hands and kicked out of sight. Immediately, nearly two dozen demons of varying sizes, ranging from dog size to seven foot creatures, pounced upon Sigrun. The bodies piled upon the elf, to the dismay of the audience.

Torches blazed and sacred chants were praised
as they start to cry hands held to the sky
In the night the fires burning bright
the ritual has begun Satan's work is done
666 the Number of the Beast
Sacrifice is going on tonight

As the audience held their breath, waiting to see what would happen, they were suddenly attracted to the Inchion Gate permitting the passage of the largest creature of all, a demon lord.

Screams filled the air as the children and women allowed their fear to grip their very hearts. The demon lord looked to the audience and roared in anger. Suddenly, he turned to the masses of demonic minions surrounding the elven warrior. His steps forward seemed to cause the earth to tremble in fear and awe at his dark power.

This can't go on I must inform the law
Can this still be real or some crazy dream
but I feel drawn towards the evil chanting hordes
they seem to mesmerise me...can't avoid their eyes
666 the Number of the Beast
666 the one for you and me

The demon lord grinned viciously, his teeth sharp and stained with death. His eyes bore pure hatred to the elf. He picked the elf up, whose hands were bound by demonic cords of dark matter.

Sigrun looked straight into the eyes of the demon, and felt the dark breath flooding his every senses. His mind attempted to put up shields of defense, and for a while, they did their job, keeping the elf conscious.

In the audience, Eleán watched, mesmerized by the unfolding events. Sigrun had fallen, his weapons gone as well. Even spells had become restrained by demonic spells that countered them.

He reached out and pulled Elysa close, fearing she would see the death of a such a legendary being. If Sigrun was killed, she would see the death of the last hope for all Tarlachians. With his death would come the end of the prophecy, and Tarlachia would fall into a downward spiral.

Tarlachia would divide and fall into oblivion, just like the ancient kingdoms of old. It would go the way of Rome, of the Huns, of China, of all of the great institutions of civilizations of the past.

Tarlachia would fade into the misty, weathered pages of history forgotten.

Back in the Arena, Liam watched the battle, and watched as the demon lord stepped forth. Still, he was forbidden by the prophecy to stop the death of Sigrun. If Sigrun was the worthy king, he would find a way.

Yet, even he, the great seraphim, could not see how such a being could escape the clutches of the powerful demon lord. He watched with regret as the demonlord laughed darkly and cast Sigrun to the sky. Sigrun tumbled head over heels, still bound as ever, and plummeted into the mouth of the demonlord.

The audience screamed in horror...

Tears flew down the cheeks of many as they watched the demise of the elf. Their last hope had died in their hearts, the fate of Tarlachia sealed with the demonlord's victory.

Arleni was struggling to hold back her tears as she watched the unbelievable event. Finally, she spoke, her voice barely transmitting to the audience.

"The promised one..."

She choked on her emotions, but then composed herself enough to continue, "has been swallowed whole..."

Arleni covered her face with her hands, slumping back into the chair and cried woeful tears.

"Sigrun...pass to the next world with peace my friend..." she whispered in her native tongue.

A hand clenched her shoulder, and another voice spoke, "Arleni..."

She looked up to the Arena.

I'm coming back I will return
And I'll possess your body and I'll make you burn
I have the fire I have the force
I have the power to make my evil take its course

The demon lord was commanding the minions to charged toward Liam, who suddenly emitted strong pure light beams from the staff at the minions, keeping them at bay.

The demon lord roared in anger, but suddenly stopped. He looked down in confusement at his chest. An image began to form. It seemed to be a tattoo of a strange sort.

First, roots of a tree snaked down his chest. A tree trunk rose vertically, spewing branches outward. The branches began to spout leaves of green pattern on his chest's flesh. As the canopy of the tree thickened, tendrils of green snaked themselves throughout the demonlord's body. Soon, it covered his entire body, fracturing his very skin like a puzzle.

The demonic minions turned and watched in wonder as their leader stumbled backward a step. Then, as if in slow motion, the great demonlord fell...

The shockwave rattled the entire Coliseum, yet was contained within the dome. All eyes watched the demonlord's still form, their eyes transfixed to the tree that had spawned on his chest.

A hand ripped through the chest, demonic blood and gore covering it. A second hand ripped the flesh aside, and a single figure rose slowly from the demonlord's great form.

The figure bore dark clothing, his skin black and his eyes glowing strangely. Arleni's voice was heard speaking, "Dark elf..."

The dark elf roared, his voice unlike Sigrun's own normal voice. Lanta suddenly launched itself toward his outstretched hand, and he snarled a grim display of sharp teeth.

He combined magic from the amulet around the neck with his own, further condensed into Lanta. He stepped forth off the demonlord's dead body.

The minions charged in rage...

The dark elf smote them down viciously, his hands plunging into the demons and ripping their skeletons free of their body, tossing them aside. At the same time, Lanta shattered the bodies it bit deeply into, causing the demons to shriek and explode.

And then there was silence...

The dark elf stood amongst the piles of dead demons and their leader and looked about. He reached up and removed the amulet from his neck, disengaging its magic.

Sigrun stood there, breathing heavily. He looked up to the audience exhaustingly with unfocused eyes.

Lanta fell from his hand...

Sigrun succumbed to the fatigue that ravaged his body. He fell into a heap amongst the demon bodies.

Immediately, Liam sealed the Gate, and returned it to the Underworld. The shield disengaged, and the audience sat in stunned silence...

Little by little, cheers rose from the audience as they watched Sigrun sit up, with Liam's assistance. Liam used no magic to heal Sigrun, except to lend some energy to remain conscious.

Arleni's voice broke out at long last.

"He had done it! Sigrun has completed the Star Trials!"

She turned and joined in the hugging and festivities that had begun behind her.

((OOC: Song is 'Number of the Beast' from Iron Maiden's Number of the Beast album.))

Stephen's mouth dropped wide open as he saw the Ichion Gate emerge and spill out it's horde. He watched in silence as Sigrun continued to fight, the vampire's eyes were unable to move from the elf as the battle continued. The fledgling's face turned to horror as he saw his friend being smashed into a pulp by the demon lord.

Stephen stared and prayed quietly for his friend. Come on Sigrun, nail this bastard. Unlike many in the audience who screamed as the elf was devoured, Stephen stiffened slightly before sagging in his seat.

"Oh Jesus. Oh God."

Stephen bent over, unable to believe his close friend of over a thousand years was now gone forever; never to return like he had done before.

He heard whispering and looked up as something began to appear on the demonlord's chest. What the fu... His eyes went wide and he stood slowly as the symbol continued to grow.

As soon as the hand shot through the chest Stephen jumped. "Holy hell!"

He waited quietly as Sigrun finally emerged from the from the gore.

A smile crossed Stephen's face as he let out a cry and began to applaude.

Stephen's voice soon entered Sigrun's head.

"Congrats my friend. Thought you were a gonner, but..you pulled through. You should try out to be the chestburster in the next Alien movie. You need anything to drink, I could grab something for you and toss it down."

Sigrun looked about with a tired look on his face at the bodies that littered the entire Arena. He looked up to Liam and asked, "Did I do this?"

Liam nodded and helped the elf to his feet. Sigrun listened to Stephen's telepathic message. He was too tired, too exhausted to reply telepathically. He spoke to Liam, "Tell my friends to come down..."

Liam complied and sent the telepathic messages to each of the names that Sigrun told him aloud.

Sigrun looked down at the amulet in his hand and saw its pulsing dark energy. He let it drop from his hand, not wishing to hold it any longer.

"This amulet...it possessed me..."

Liam placed a sympathetic hand on Sigrun's shoulder. He looked down at the amulet, "It belongs to Zero Celadrin. I gave it to him to allow him a means of traveling in the daylight. However, it's dark energies will corrupt a being such as yourself. I'm quite surprised you managed to cast its effect off your soul as you did. You possess an incredible constitution, my friend."

As Stephen came down the stadium, he made a quick dash to a vendor and got a bottle of cold water for Sigurn. He headed back out and jumped down admist the twisted corpses. Stephen moved through the field to Sigrun, the vampire looking at the devestation the one elf made.

Stephen smiled broadly to Sigrun and patted him on the shoulder. He handed the bottle of water to the elf.

"Good job my friend..here, you need this. Get some water back in your body."

Hondur continued to watch intently as Sigrun was swallowed by the demon lord. He scowled in disappointment and watched as the angel beat back the demons. He couldn't believe it was over for Sigrun. A warrior of that caliber, gone. It wasn't right.

Disrupted from his thoughts, Hondur was surprised to see a tree erupt from the chest of the demon lord. He had never witnessed anything quite like this and was startled beyond belief. Watching in wonder as a different elf burst through the demon lord, Hondur presumed the elf had been corrupted by demonic power.

Once the battle had ended, Sigrun reemerged and was declared the victor. For the first time, Hondur rose and applauded the efforts of his one time rival. The ancient vampire took to the sky and descended to the side of his elven friend helping the elf to stand as he cleared away demonic corpses with his mind.

"Well done my friend, you have certainly earned your right to leadership."

Sigrun smiled weakly at Hondur, "I don't die that easily..." He accepted the bottle of water from Stephen, swallowing hungrily half of it, and dumping the rest on his face, washing the blood away. It flowed over his now greatly dirtied and stained armor. He looked down at the blood and commented, "I made a bloody mess of myself..."

Liam laughed, "I assure you, they got the shorter end of the straw." He gestured to the bodies that were now far away, thanks to Hondur's efforts. Servant elves were now on the field, clearing the bodies away with their magic, even as the audience continued to stand and cheer, stomp, and roar in approval.

Sigrun turned to face Arleni who approached with Zero and Aeris. He smiled warmly to them, though they could see the fatigue clearly on his face. He had partaken in nearly ten major battles in this event, and they had taken a lot out of the elven warrior.

Suddenly, several arrows slammed into Sigrun's torso, causing him to suddenly gasp and groan in pain. His eyes looked up to the stars as he fell to his knees once more.

Liam turned with a vicious flaring of his seraphic power as he fired a powerful blast toward one of the locations of the archers. It recieved the blast fully, completely obliterating his form.

A single Draman stood on another pillar at the top of the Coliseum, a powerful bow in his hand as he snarled at the group at the center of the Arena. His voice called out in his throaty rattle,

"Death to the Prophecy! Rise, my friends!"

A number of other dramans, also bearing bows, revealed themselves upon the remaining pillars. They glared down at the center of the Coliseum and snarled their sharp teeth.

Nearby, a number of vampires also rose from the shadows of the night, standing aside of the dramans, also snarling.

The tremendous series of roars could be heard as the dragons beheld their kin betraying Sigrun and the rest of the Tarlachians. The rage was evident, and they launched into the skies, flying toward the newly revealed enemies.

A few of the vampires and dramans remained where they were, fighting against the attacking dragons. Blasts of fire, ice, and wind flew in different directions as the remaining vampires and dramans fled to safer terrain from the dragons and other forces rising up against them.

Back in the center of the Arena, Sigrun lay on his side, thirteen arrows deeply embedded in his torso. Already weakened from the battles, he could do nothing as he lay there gasping in agony. Arleni quickly and efficiently extracted the arrows, beginning some of the healing spells she knew. A glow emitted around the elven warrior as he cried out in pain.

Arleni looked up to the others, "I need more help!" she cried frantically. Worry was now etched in her face deeply...

(Cue for Gothic Underworld to reply)

The rollercoaster of emotions that swept over Elysa as she watched the battle between Sigrun and the demons began to overwhelm her. She had never experienced anything like this in her life, and although the man before her was not known to her, her hopes for his success were as strong as those of his friends. And she was very grateful to feel the closeness of Eleán as she watched the final moments of the fight, her fear rising as the Elf was consumed by the beast.

She closed her eyes for a moment, not wanting to see the end of the warrior who had fought so bravely, but they would not stay shut, as if she truly did not believe that this could have happened to him. “No, it can’t…it can’t end this way.” She stammered, staring blindly at the sight.

Later, if asked, she would not be able to describe the mix of feelings that spread over her, yet she would without fail, never forget the elation she felt, when the Elf emerged from the body of the demon. The cheer that escaped her lips was loud, and yet lost amidst the chorus from the crowds surrounding her. She spun around and hugged Eleán. “He did it!! He did it!!”

She was practically jumping around; the smile on her face was huge with delight. Barely able to take in what had happened, still on a high from the success of the warrior, it took several minutes before the events that followed to sink into her awareness. Suddenly, she stood looking at the fallen Elf, lying on the floor, his body pierced with arrows. Stunned into stillness, she watched silently, her cheers frozen on her open mouth.

Stephen spun and turned to help Arleni when another arrow hit the ground. He spun around, whipping out his P14s and sent a barrage of silver .45 rounds into the crowd. Two of the vampires quickly fell with bullets to thier head will another three were downed with shots to thier legs. Thankfully, no one else was hit.

Stephen ejected the magizines and reloaded. He turned to Arleni.

"I'll buy you as much time as you need. Try to get him to a safe spot. The most important thing is...don't worry."

Stephen ran to the edge of the arena, dodgeing arrow after arrow. He quickly scaled the wall and was faced by a draman. Being too close for the bow, the draman tackled the vampire, bending down, trying to rip out Stephen's throat. As the row of teeth got closer, Stephen grasped for a weapon; his knife was under him, and he couldn't get to it.

Stephen reached behind the draman, grabbed a bow from its quiver, and using his full strength, brought it to arms length and plunged the arrow into an eye. The draman fell back screaming and Stephen left him there, not wanting to waste a bullet.

He began to shout to the people there to keep thier heads down. Stephen spotted the fleeing vampires and dramans and gave chase. Two vampires spotted him coming and turned to fight.

The first pulled out a silver knife and attempted to plunge it into Stephen's head, expecting fledgling strength from him. Pure horror and fear was visable as Stephen easily held the vampire and snapped his arm, the bone punching through the flesh. The vampire's scream was cut off as Stephen tossed him into the air and a pair of dragons ripped the vampire in half.

The other vampire attacked Stephen and others in his group began to fire arrows at Stephen. He moved behind a pillar, still grappling with the vampire before pinning him to the pillar. He licked his fangs, he hadn't fed in a while and he was starting to get hungry. Stephen ripped a hole in the vampire's neck and quickly drained the body.

Pulling out one of his pistols and using the corpse as a shield, Stephen continued his fight with the insurgents.

The battle was astounding, and for a moment, Zero and Aeris were left breathless, stunned by the miraculous comeback of Sigrun, but even more so in the manner that it happened. The dark energy of the Nightshade Amulet astounded Zero, who had become so used to the limited effects of his own Amulet, that he had not foreseen the effect it had on Sigrun. But now, it was clear for all to see. In his best intentions of helping Sigrun, Zero had passed the Nightshade Amulet to him, hoping that it would help him. Instead, in the form of the Dark Elve that emerged from the Demon Lord's chest, Zero had unwittingly brought about a change that had never happened before, but strangely enough, quite familiar.

In the form of the Dark Elve.......Zero's Nightshade Amulet had summoned forth from Sigrun, the old rage and bloodlust of Maximus Destroi.

Struck with horror at what he had done, it was therefore something of a misunderstatement to say that Zero sighed with relief when he saw Sigrun manage to summon the will to pull away the Nightshade Amulet from himself, and throw it away. Even from his distance, Zero could feel his Amulet keenly, sensing the enormous amount of Hell's energy that it had absorbed with every minion of Hell that Sigrun slaughtered. It almost felt to Zero that the Amulet was literally gorged on Dark energy, and now incredibly dangerous to anyone who picked it up without having the fortitude to withstand so much evil power concentrated into itself.

"Raphael Celadrin of the Noble Blood, come forth. You too, Aerial of the Nephilim, my child. Come forth, your friend Sigrun Greenwood wishes it."

Zero felt the mental summons from Liam Celadrin, leader of the Celadrin Clan, and turned to Aeris, who nodded to show that she had got the summons too. Wordlessly, Zero took Aeris's hand, and floated her down all the way to the Arena, landing a short distance away from Sigrun. Knowing that Liam might very well not be happy about him throwing his Amulet away so wantonly, Zero assumed a haughty position, as he had done so many times in the past towards authority, showing his apparent disdain for him. As they walked up with Arleni not far behind, Zero looked at Liam, and immediately said loudly before Liam could said anything, "Oh yes, Liam. I know you're not happy about me interfering with the Trials, and especially so because I gave this to Sigrun. Well, screw you, I say. Sigrun's an old friend of mine, and if I want to help him, I help him, and it's none of your business."

With that, Zero ignored Liam, and Aeris gave Liam an apologetic look, as if trying to apologize on Zero's behalf. Smiling now, Zero approached Sigrun, and flashed him a cheeky grin. "Well done, Herr Sigrun. Or should I say Herr Maximus? No, no, what am I thinking, of course it's Herr Sigrun now. Remind me to stay clear of you when you let yourself become Maximus again, Sigrun, old pal", he joked, picking up the Nightshade Amulet, and tossing it up and down like a rock.

But he suddenly stopped tossing the Amulet, and his expression changed of that from a relaxed one, to one that betrayed sudden concern. He stared at the Amulet in his hand, and his frown became really deep. He started sweating blood, as if he was in the midst of a tough task. With astonished eyes, he turned to Sigrun again.

"I've never felt so much Dark energy in the Amulet before!", Zero exclaimed, shifting his glance back and forth between Sigrun and the Amulet. "It's almost overflowing, it has almost ten times the amount of Dark energy than I ever dared to concentrate in it! But why? Where did all that Dark energy come from.........? The Demon Lord? His minions? That explains it.........all their Dark energy absorbed when you slaughtered them", he trailed off to a whisper, still sweating. He then turned to Sigrun, and a great respect was in his eyes.

"No wonder Maximus Destroi was reborn once more in you, if only for a moment, Sigrun", Zero whispered. "That part of you would definitely awaken in the presence of so much evil power. I am impressed, Sigrun, very impressed that you can shake off the influence of my Amulet in these circumstances. Most would be corrupted permanently by the essence of so many of Hell's minions.......excuse me, everybody. I'll have to take a bit of time to reabsorb so much energy into myself."

And with that, Zero fell silent, and sat himself down on the floor, in a meditating position, the Amulet in front of him. As everyone looked on, tendrils of dark energy wafted out of the Amulet, and slowly floated like smoke all the way into his nostrils, as if he was partaking of a drug........

Aeris went near him, and shook her head with a smile, indicating that they should not be worried. "Don't worry, everybody. Raph'll just need some time to tame all this energy. It shouldn't take too long." With that, Aeris went over to Sigrun, kneeling down beside him.

"Sigrun.........that was a mighty battle you fought there. Are you alright?", she whispered. "Let me see if you need any major healing........"

But Aeris never got to finish what she was saying, as arrows suddenly shot from out of nowhere, hitting Sigrun, and some of which nearly hit Aeris as well. With a gasp, Aeris fell on her behind, while a whole new battle started to rage.........

_________________________________________________________________

On one side, Zero was still sitting......

He was almost done with absorbing the excess energy of the Amulet, and now only needed to tame the energy, such that he could incorporate it into himself without harming himself, whether it be to his body, or to his soul. So it came as a bother to him when the sudden attack on Sigrun happened, just when he was unable to respond instantly.

"Drat!", Zero thought, "Of ALL times, they had to choose now......" He gritted his teeth, willing himself to quickly transform the Hellish energy into a form he could use, so that he could join the battle without causing chaos himself. "Alright, hold on, Sigrun. A little longer, then I'll show them just what a big mistake they made......."

He gritted his teeth, trying to transform the Dark energy as best as he could. But the battle couldn't wait, and finally, Zero made a dangerous decision. "Alright, you bastards, you had it coming......."

With that, Zero suddenly stood up, Amulet in hand. The energy he absorbed was only half-tamed, and it was starting to show, for now Zero's normally alabaster skin was now tinted red, and so were his hair. The biggest change of all, however, were in his eyes......they were not even eyes any longer. Instead, what anyone would see was fire......fire from Hell. Knowing that he posed a greater danger close to his comrades, Zero flew up, high above the Arena.......

The arrows were now heading towards him, so conspicuous a target he made. And yet, they were deflected by an invisible shield around Zero, almost as if he was unaware of the protection he had created around himself. Finally, at a high point above Sigrun, Zero looked down, observing the Dramen and the humans who were trying to kill Sigrun.

With a sudden roar........Zero exploded. The explosion created a red cloud in the air, that reeked of evil. But when the cloud cleared........nothing could have prepared anyone for what they saw next. For where Zero was, a crimson ball of what seemed to be pure energy now floated, and the dread that everyone felt was eeriely familiar. It was the same sense of dread that they felt.......when the Demon Lord emerged from the Inchion Gate. Then, from within the ball of energy, a shadow slowly emerged, until one could see a silhouette of an upper torso, arms, and a head, with no distinctive features other than eyes that shone like points of light, and a shadowy mane of silhouetted hair that flew behind its head.

It was Zero. And the essence of the Demon Lord was now under his control.

With an unearthly roar, the Dark Archon form of Zero raised its shadowed arms, and two great bolts of unholy red lightning shot out, pulverizing the area where archers had shot at him earlier. But the lightning didn't disappear like normal lightning; instead, it continued blasting away, and the Dark Archon manuveured the bolts slowly, essentially destroying anything in its path. Like ants drowned in hot water, the renegade Dramen and vampires were consumed by the continuous lightning blasts.

But there were still a lot of these archers around, and they were closing in on Sigrun.

The Dark Archon gave out another roar. But this time, its roar had almost a hypnotic quality to it, and not just merely evillish. The reason for that soon became apparent, when for no apparent reason at all, some of the Dramen and vampire assassins suddenly turned on their own men, firing arrows into their unsuspecting comrades. A great chaos ensued, as the rogues suddenly found themselves blindsided, and struggled to deal with this new threat from their own.

For those who died at the hands of the traitors, their last vision was of their own traitorous comrades, with red fire in their eye sockets.......

(Alright, I know all this sounds very godmoddish, but believe me, Zero will not always stay this powerful, and it would likely not happen again.......unless he finds another source of energy in the future :p And anyway, if you have trouble figuring out my description, think of Starcraft's Dark Archon, and you've gotten the idea ;))

_________________________________________________________________

Meanwhile

As the battle raged on, Aeris was momentarily stunned, unsure as to what to do. Finally figuring out just what had happened, Aeris took out a rose hidden within her robes, and she glowed with a divine aura. In that instant, the rose transformed, becoming a black, sharp-tipped staff. The Nephilim Rose Staff. With the Staff in hand, Aeris prepared to join the battle........

"I need more help!"

Those words snapped in Aeris's mind, reminding her of Sigrun's plight. All thoughts of battle forgotten, Aeris reeled back to Arleni, who was besides the hurt Sigrun.

"Alright", Aeris said breathlessly. "Let's see what we can do, Lady Arleni........"

An arrow came hurtling, aimed straight at Sigrun. It would have pierced his heart, and killed him for certain, had Aeris not suddenly revealed her full Nephilim form. Her angel wings sprouted from her shoulderblades in an instant, and one of the feathery wings smashed the arrow aside, deflecting it from its target. As more arrows rained down, Aeris's wings flapped once........and all the arrows headed for them suddenly encountered an invisible, semi-spherical shield, protecting Sigrun, Arleni, and Aeris.

"I can't keep this up for long, so we better hurry", panted Aerial, her forehead creased in concentration. "Continue your spells, Lady Arleni. I'll lay hands on Master Sigrun, and we should be able to heal him together. Come on now."

And she did exactly as she said, laying one hand on Sigrun's abdomen, the other on his chest. A white glow began to emit from Aeris, bathing Sigrun with a blanket of white light in addition to Arleni's glow from her Elvish spells. Still Sigrun did not seem to improve by much.

"Ooooohhh........why isn't it working?", Aerial whined, frowning even more, as she redoubled her efforts. In her haste to heal Sigrun as quickly as possible, she did not notice that the divine glow that she was using was slowly turning into colors other than white. Nor did she realise that she was mumbling Elvish words to herself, words that she knew not the meaning to.

Arleni looked up in surprise, as she beheld Aeris's ears gradually change form, becoming from that of a human, to that of an Elve.......

Chaos had quickly taken the throne within the Coliseum. The entire place had turned into a war zone, immense fluctuations of power exploding in just about every place seen to the eye. The concentration of all this power could have even been seen from space, the lights flashing like fireworks upon the Earth.

The insurgency continued their attacks, now fighting for their own lives. They fought ferociously and managed to take down a number of their opponnents. Suddenly, one of the dragons roared in anger, sending plumes of ice wildy about as she struggled to eject the twenty or so dramen that had pounced upon her, driving their blades through little-known weak points. Her blood spewed to the Earth, her cries piercing the night for eternity. Suddenly, bolts of crimson lightning shattered the attackers, and the dragon beheld the demonic Zero behind that attack. Having lost considerable blood, she slammed her heavy torso into the Arena, her great wings settling about her injured form.

Soon, with the efforts of Sigrun's friends, and the righteous Tarlachians, the insurgents were suppressed, and either killed or captured. Tarlachians of different races bound those that still lived, and cast them separately from each other throughout the Arena. Each had three guardians, with their weapons pressing into the insurgents' flesh, daring them to give them an excuse to end their lives.

Over Sigrun, Arleni clenched her brow as she returned her attention back to Sigrun and increased her power. She felt Aeris's own power as well slowly gaining strength. She didn't understand the girl, but that was not important at the moment. Sigrun was in mortal danger...

The wounds slowly healed, and life began to flow back into Sigrun's face. Arleni pulled a flask from her side and brought it to Sigrun's mouth, "Drink." she commanded, opening his mouth and letting the elven drink flow down his throat. It would assist the internal healing. Finally, Sigrun breathed deeply for the first time in too long.

Arleni looked down at her cousin with tears dropping freely from her eyes and splashing upon his chest. She looked up to Aeris and whispered, "Thank you. We saved him..."

She looked back down at Sigrun, ignoring the events around them. It had been too close, much too close...

Avto Crusade continued to sit quietly in his seat in the stands of the coliseum. It was evident that he was still asleep, untroubled by the tumultuous events that had occurred. However, Avto was not completely unconscious, as he was surrounded by several dead bodies, evidently cut down by Avto. Although Avto was not awake, his instinct and natural reactions had caused him to draw the Swords of Night and Day from their sheathes, sending them singing once more into mortal flesh, slowly feeding the insatiable hunger that fueled their power.

With a heavy snort, Avto unconsciously resheathed his swords and continued his sleep, unruffled. Once more, his loud snoring resounded within the coliseum. It would take a lot to wake him . . .

Stephen ducked as the massive dragon tumbled past him. He wipped the draconic blood from his mouth and continued to engaged the insurgents. Finally, the group he was firing at came out from their hiding spot, hands held high. Stephen moved from his spot, both of his pistols drawn. He counted four draman and seven vampires.

"Move...now."

The group nodded, he could tell they had had enough. A single vampire pulled out a small silver knife and hurtled it at Stephen. The Simatarian caught it in his arm. Stephen snarled and leveled one his pistols with the vampire's head and ended it's life.

"Anyone else?"

The remaining group moved quickly down to the Arena where they were split up.

Stephen holstered his weapons and pulled out the blade. He tossed it on the ground and headed back down to where Sigrun lay. He approached and saw Arleni crying, holding Sigrun in her arms. Stephen reached out to lay a hand on her shouder, but remembering she never touched an non-elf, pulled his hand back.

Stephen looked down at her.

"Is he gonna be okay?"


***********************************************

Golden Simatar Space Agency Space Station Grondu

Philp Spaulding looked out the window at the earth below. He gently floated by it and reached out and held himself at another. He loved being in space, the freedom, the adventure, and seeing his homeland down below.

As the station orbited the Earth, he noticed something funny, lights, lots of strange colored lights.

"Frank....Lindsey...come over here."

Frank Jurgens floated down from one of the other sections of the station and looked out the window. "Holy crap Philp....what is that?"

Lindsey Shapiro came from under Philp and he moved so she could see too. "We are looking at Tarlachia...but....what is going on?"

"I dunno, but I'm gonna check out."

Frank half floated, half dragged himself through the station to the communications room.

"This is GSSA station Grondu...come in base..over."

"Reading you loud and clear Grondu...wazup?"

"Well....we have something very interesting going on."

Several minutes later, Frank returned to his two friends. "Well, base doesn't know what is up."

"Maybe they are testing some kind of nuke." Philp offered.

Lindsey shook her head. "Na....well...maybe...."

"Maybe what Lindsey?"

She looked at the two men. "Maybe magic."

All three Simatarians looked at each other for several seconds. It was after that pause, that they all started laughing.

Hondur's head snapped back to face the source of several arrows now embedded within Sigrun's body. His attention was soon drawn by the screaming Draman and the other vampires and asorted creatures that uprose. Now angered that such a brilliant warrior's life could be threatened by such cowardly tactics, Hondur roared as he launched into the air.

As more arrows rushed towards the elf and himself, Hondur exploded with a mental wave of energy, knocking all the arrows back or off course. Several younger vampires realised they were up against an ancient and began to flee but Hondur took hold of them with his hand and hurled them into the arena where one of the large dragons could tear them apart.

Guns now drawn, Hondur moved into the crowd, unloading single shots into vampires and dramans, attempting not to hit anyone in the crowd. With both clips soon running out, Hondur resorted to drawing his blade and cutting down the creatures within his path. Most of the vampires weren't even a challenge yet occassionally they would band to together, making things harder.

Thanks to the use of his mental abilities once again, he was able to hold back a portion of the vampires whilst he hacked the others to peaces. By now Hondur was beginning to tire mentally and decided to give his mind a rest.

Satisfied with the corpses left behind him, Hondur cleaned his blade and sheathed it, just as a draman dropped behind him and enguled the ancient vampire in a bear hug. The draman's hot breath passed over his neck as he spoke in a hiss.

"Well vampire, you're not so strong now are you?"

Hondur merely grinned.

"When will you kids learn to respect your elders."

The draman seemed confused as Hondur appeared to be much younger than the brutish draman, little did he know that Hondur was almost 500 years his senior. With a crack of his neck, Hondur's head smashed into the face of the draman, causing him to release the vampire.

Spinning around, Hondur dug his razor sharp fangs into the draman's neck, biting through a thin scale and finding the sweet life blood within. A mere minute later and the draman was on the ground, dead whilst Hondur stood above him, refreshed.

It seemed everyone else had been taken care of with the massive display of power Zero seemed to be putting on and Stephen doing his part. The insurgents were either dead or captured now. Moving back to Sigrun, Hondur inspected his fallen companion and watched as this Aeris girl worked some sort of magic. Hondur knew nothing of magic himself and would like to keep it that way. On the topic, he looked up and stared at the creature that was once Zero.

"What the...?"

Just as quickly as it had started, the insurgency ended, leaving the Coliseum a smoking, ruined mess. Blood was spilled everywhere, and those of the insurgents who had surrendered were now put under custody, the rebellion a failure. Sigrun was safe in the hands of his friends, but even so, not all the insurgents were dead, or bound. Indeed not.

For there were still a small army of the insurgents walking free, and no one dared to come close to them to bind them. Understandable, when you consider that all of the remaining insurgents walking around had red fire for eyes. Thankfully, these insurgents were no longer dangerous as well, for they were all under the mind control of the Dark Archon, who was still hovering in the sky.

Zero, his battle energy still crackling around him, descended in his Dark Archon form to the ground of the Arena. His possessed army of would-be insurgents gathered towards the center of the Arena, surrounding him. With a cursory glance around the army that he no longer had use for, the Dark Archon gave a low growl, and in a flash, his mind-controlled insurgents burst into red flames. The unholy flames consumed their bodies, leaving almost no trace, while their spirit energy, taking an ethereal form, was absorbed by the Dark Archon. In a matter of seconds, all that was left was a few flickering flames on the ground.

That done, the Dark Archon turned towards Liam, his intentions friendly, but troubled.

"I still have too much of Hell's energy in me, Liam. And I cannot tame them any longer", the Archon mind-messaged to Liam. "I regret I have to do this, but......."

Cutting itself off, the Dark Archon raised its shadowy arms to the sky. Suddenly, a humongous blast of red light originated from the Archon, cutting a swath of crimson in a direct line towards the sky. Like a beacon of light, the crimson blast climbed higher in the sky, until it seemed to be a pillar that held the sky from the earth.

This went on for some minutes, until with a yell, the Dark Archon cut off the blast, dissipating the pillar of fire. But with such power spent, the Archon was not an Archon any longer. Instead, in its place stood Zero, looking as if he had just recovered from a drug high. Moreover, he looked really ridiculous now, for static residue was still crackling about him, and his silver hair, which normally covered his neck like a cloak, was now standing straight up from the static.

"Incredible", whispered Zero to himself. "Only those Nobles of the Firstsired, like Louis, are known to be able to take on the Archon form at will........yet I am not one of them. Could it be that all I need to master the Archon form, is to infuse myself with more energy than I know I can handle? Perhaps......perhaps. I should ask Louis what this is all about........."

Exhausted and panting from the exertion, Zero staggered towards Hondur, and propped himself against the Assingtonian Ancient, putting a hand on his shoulder.

"Remind me......never to lend my Amulet to Sigrun again", Zero panted, his lips curled in a cheeky smirk. Then he looked up in the sky, at where his blast of energy went. "I sure hope I didn't hit anyone up there."

Little did Zero know that his blast of energy is headed almost directly at the Simatarian space station that was above them..........

_________________________________________________________________

Meanwhile,

Aeris almost cried in relief, as Sigrun finally came to, breathing deeply. The Elvish energy that she displayed dissipated in an instant, as did the somewhat Elvish ears, once she disengaged her usage of healing magic. Even then, Aeris did not seem to realize what had happened to her, and instead looked up at Arleni with a smile. She opened her lips, intending to say, "You're welcome, my Lady."

But what came out was, "Lle creoso, Arwen en amin". Which was Elvish for what Aeris had intended to say, and which should not be surprising at all. Except that Aeris never knew a single word of Elvish all her life.

With a gasp, Aeris put a hand to her lips, stunned at what she had just said. How did she know what to say, when to say it, in Elvish?

Hondur was dumbfounded. He had never seen anything like that ever in his life, especially from a vampire. He knew the Noble breed were quite different to the Assingtonians in many aspects, but he was quite sure that 'Archon' form was a distinguishing feature of Zero's kind.

Gathering his wits once again, Hondur supported Zero as he recovered.

"You're going to have to show me how to do that one day..."

At Hondur's words, Zero chuckled softly. Slowly, he started laughing at the idea that he could show Hondur how to accomplish what he himself had only managed for the first time, and probably won't be able to do so for the foreseeable future.

"Oh Hondur", Zero chuckled, "I really don't think I can manage such a feat again in the near future. See.........by right, only those of the Firstsired, like my King Louis, can take on the Archon form, and only in times of great stress. Even now, I am wondering myself how I managed it, for I am not one of the Firstsired." He took a breath, then continued. "But if you really want to know........take one Nightshade Amulet, add the essence of a Demon Lord, put the essence in one vampire, and mix", he joked. Then he turned to Sigrun, and his face was one of worry.

"Sigrun had better be okay", Zero murmured. "He owes me four times over now, and I don't want him dying before I extract repayment from him", he added, as if not willing to show just how much he really cared for his comrade.

Arleni studied Aeris carefully. She reached out and turned the girl's head sideways and raised an eyebrow. Ears... She stood up and lifted the girl to her feet, momentarily forgetting about Sigrun. Standing back, she turned the young girl slightly, studying the girl's physique.

"There is something peculiar about you child. You speak the language of the earth, yet you never were able to before."

She turned away slightly thinking carefully, "Most peculiar."

Sigrun stood and faced Aeris. He spoke not in the common but in elvish, "Lle ... Elandili?" "You...half-elf?"

He studied her with a strange look, as if trying to figure if she was part of a hallucination. He turned to Arleni, "Take her to Lower Taria, wait for me there."

Arleni nodded and led Aeris away on foot outside the Coliseum. She glanced at Aeris and spoke, "You ever travel through portals?"

_________________________

Sigrun turned to his friends and spoke, "Thank you...your assistance saved my life. I will find a way to repay for your loyalty. But first...I have a number of other things to address..."

He turned to the prisoners, the very action turning him from a calm being, to one filled with anger. He strode toward the nearest one and stood in front of the Draman.

"Who's your leader?" he demanded. No response.

One of the guardians kicked the Draman, only to have Sigrun raise his hand to stop him. "I'll only ask you one more time. If you do not wish to comply, you are aware of the torture systems we have in place throughout the country. I'm sure we can find one perfectly for you."

The Draman looked up and snarled, "I am."

Sigrun raised an eyebrow, "Oh good. You're the one I've been looking for."

He turned away, then turned back quickly and delivered a vicious kick to the Draman's face. The Draman flew backwards, blood spilling from his mouth and landing on his side.

"You lost your honor when you did not challenge me to combat. You instead felt that striking from afar would gain you great mention."

Sigrun glared down at him, as he stepped forward and put a soiled boot to the Draman's throat, "You're mistaken..."

He drew Lanta, the metal ringing clearly to the ears...
____________________________

Eleán watched the first few moments of the aftermath of the assassination attempt and saw what was going to happen. He turned Elysa away, "Come child...it's time to leave..."

He glanced back to see Sigrun drawing his blade. Justice to be served... he thought to himself, looking away once more.

“Leave?” Elysa looked at Eleán, a frown etched deep into her brow. “Are you sure it’s finished?” Behind her in the Arena, she could hear sounds, though she could not make them out clearly, but she was sure that there was something else to come. She looked into the elf’s eyes, seeing something there. He was behaving as he had never behaved before, shielding her. “What is happening?” She turned back to the Arena. “What is he going to do?”

She returned her gaze to Eleán’s. “This last thing, it wasn’t part of the event was it?” Swallowing hard, she looked questioningly at her companion. “What is this all about? I don’t understand.”

"NO!"

Stephen darted forward and grasped Sigrun's arms, using all of his strength to hold back the elf. He was able to get the elf off the draman, but found it hard to keep Sigrun from trying to kill the rebel leader. The elf broke free and moved to kill and the vampire moved straight after him, pulling Sigrun back. Stephen's cobalt blue eyes glared coldly at Sigrun.

"No Sigrun. You kill him you will be no better. You will be giving him the easy way out. This bag of shit deserves to rot for all he is worth. Stick him in a small hole and let him sit there till he dies."

Stephen let go of the elf and looked at him.

"Showing mercy is also a very good thing to your enemies, shows you can overcome your hatred. Put these pissheads on trial...and let justice take it's course, though it will probably be nothing more than a show trial. Putting them on trial also puts you on good ground with foreign relations...shows you have mercy. What you are doing is nothing short of cold-blooded murder...it is not justice being served, it is murder. But, it is your choice"

Eleán shook his head negatively, "No...that was an assassination attempt on Sigrun. Seems there are some who wish to keep him from taking the throne."

Eleán lead Elysa away, "We're heading back to Upper Taria, back to my home. It is getting late...after all, the sun is beginning to rise..."

He turned and faced the east, where the sun was beginning to just send lighter shades of purple into the black abyss of the night.

Giving the Arena one last look, seeing the movement of one of the people close to Sigrun stop his movements, she nodded to Eleán. “Yes, it is getting late.” She looked up at the sky, watching the darkness begin to lose its blackness, indicating the future arrival of dawn. “Though oddly, I feel far from tired.” She smiled at the elf and turned back the way he was facing, ready to leave.

“I take it Sigrun is not everyone’s choice for a leader?” She could not understand why anyone could not want such a warrior in charge of their nation, but then there was so much history, and one could never tell what underlying currents had been running since the beginning of time. “He seems very worthy to me, but at the moment I guess I’m suffering from hero worship.” She grinned as she looked up at Eleán.

"NO!"

Stephen darted forward and grasped Sigrun's arms, using all of his strength to hold back the elf. He was able to get the elf off the draman, but found it hard to keep Sigrun from trying to kill the rebel leader. The elf broke free and moved to kill and the vampire moved straight after him, pulling Sigrun back. Stephen's cobalt blue eyes glared coldly at Sigrun.

"No Sigrun. You kill him you will be no better. You will be giving him the easy way out. This bag of shit deserves to rot for all he is worth. Stick him in a small hole and let him sit there till he dies."

Stephen let go of the elf and looked at him.

"Showing mercy is also a very good thing to your enemies, shows you can overcome your hatred. Put these pissheads on trial...and let justice take it's course, though it will probably be nothing more than a show trial. Putting them on trial also puts you on good ground with foreign relations...shows you have mercy. What you are doing is nothing short of cold-blooded murder...it is not justice being served, it is murder. But, it is your choice"

Sigrun turned to Stephen, "This one committed acts against the government of Tarlachia. Although I am not officially the ruler yet, I am still covered by Article 34, section 41: Attempts of assassination of any current member of the government, or of any upcoming members is to be dealt with immediately, and without trial, for they have committed crimes against the state. The sentence is left to the one whom the crime has been committed against."

Sigrun glared into Stephen's eyes, "And I'm not feeling quite merciful right now." He gestured to the prisoners, "They weren't merciful to me, so why should I be?"

He turned and swung the blade viciously, decapitating the Draman, who had just sat back up. He looked down at the dead bodies, then up at the other prisoners. His eyes were dark with anger.

"Sigrun! Mercy!" Stephen cried once more. Sigrun didn't turn, but spoke in reply:

"Mercy is left to their gods. I only arrange the meeting..."

Eleán smiled warmly at Elysa, "Hero worship...yes, I suppose I can see what you're talking about."

As soon as they left the Coliseum, they saw Avto sitting nearby, obviously meditating. Intrigued, he led Elysa closer, but stopped her as he surveyed the dead bodies around the meditating man.

"Excuse me..."

Avto snorted.

"The Star Trials are over, sir."

Snoring...

Eleán looked at Elysa and muttered, "Heavy sleeper." He turned back to the man and cast an awakening spell at the man, hitting him in the face. It would awaken him as if he were smelling flowers, and would be calm.

Stephen stood silent, his head fell. He could not believe what Sigrun had just done. He stared at the body of the dead draman. This was alien to him, it had been drilled into his head that one never killed any prisoner unless they posed an immediate threat to you. Stephen thought the practice of no trials and instant death was barbaric, he never expected anyone he knew to do it.

Stephen walked up to Sigrun and pulled out one of his pistols and three extra magizines, shoving them into the elf's hands.

"Since you're not feeling merciful, I guess you will be dealing with the others. So here...P14 automatic with a fourteen shot mag and a couple extras. Should be enough bullets to go around. Have fun."

Elysa looked at the sleeping man, a little surprised that anyone was not woken up by the events that had just taken place. She also could not believe that someone would have let themselves miss just an occasion; it was not as if it happened every day. “Some people have no sense.” She shook her head sadly. “I bet he’s never seen a movie right through.” Looking at Eleán, she smiled. “I would not have missed it for the world.”

Looking back over her shoulder, she gave the Arena one last look, afraid that she was missing something of importance, yet at the same time not wanting to go against her companion’s wishes. “I will forever be grateful for your kindness.” She wrapped her arms around him suddenly, and smiled. “Thank you.” Releasing her grip, she blushed and smiled awkwardly. “Um…shall we go?”

Sigrun took a deep breath and managed to capture some more restraint. He looked down at the pistols in Stephen's hands. Sighing, he looked back up at the other prisoners, who suddenly seemed afraid of their fate.

He handed the guns back, "No...they do not deserve instant death. I have other plans for them."

He gestured to the guards to lift their prisoners. "Take them to the the gallows holding."

The gallows holding, were merely the cover name for the torture rooms that were deep underground of the earth, not too far from the Coliseum. Here, the prisoners would be subjected to countless methods of torture, that would punish them for their crimes against the state.

Sigrun turned away and glanced to the skies, "Dawn approaches. It's time for you to return to the safety of the rooms."

He opened a portal nearby and beckoned for the vampires to enter. They would emerge back in Sigrun's home near Upper Taria, next to the waterfall.

Stephen holstered his pistol and placed the magizines back in thier seperate pouches on his belt. He watched the prisoners go, he didn't like the sound of where they were going. Having being tortured before, he knew what it was like and hated the practice. He didn't voice his opinion, he had at least gotten Sigrun not to kill anymore

Stephen looked up into the slowly brightening sky. "How much I would love to see a sunrise...without dying."

He looked at the portal then stepped through.

Hondur didn't intervene with Sigrun as he took care of the Draman leader of the insurgents. He scowled at Stephen as the younger vampire attempted to stop Sigrun, yet it could not be avoided.

Hondur agreed with Sigrun's actions and thought these rebels were getting what they deserved. Moving silently up to the elf, Hondur looked down at Stephen before nodding to the elven leader.

"That was necessary..."

Looking up at the sky one last time, Hondur turned his back on the stadium and stepped through the swirling portal.

Aeris, being led away by Arleni towards the swirling portal, did not see Sigrun's sudden change of temperament. Which was just as well, for such senseless slaughter would only have left her crying in shock. Instead, her brows furrowed at what Sigrun had said to her:

"Lle ... Elandili?"

She was shocked to discover that not only could she speak Elvish without realising it, but now, she actually understood every word of Elvish Sigrun had spoken. "You.....half-elf?" She was astounded, and yet she could not summon any words to her lips. Nevertheless, she knew for certain that her face was like an open book to Sigrun in that moment. Could it be......? She was Nephilim.......but could she also have a bit of Elve in her as well?

"Impossible", she thought. "I've never heard of a Elve-Angel hybrid.......impossible", she thought to herself. Still, she had her doubts......perhaps she had better talk this over with Zero when she found the time.......

"You ever travel through portals?"

Those words cut through Aeris's thoughts, and she turned to look at Arleni. Portals? She had never seen a portal.......shaking her head, Aeris murmured, "No.......Lady Arleni." But her attention was centered on Arleni's face, and she was studying it closely. And what she saw confused her, for while Arleni did resemble Sigrun, being related to him and all........her face also seemed quite familiar, for another reason. But then Arleni turned away, and she started to cast a portal spell.

However, it will not be until Aeris next looks into a mirror, that she would begin to understand just what looked so familiar about Arleni........

_________________________________________________________________

Meanwhile,

Zero looked on impassively, as Sigrun lost his cool, and beheaded the Draman leader. While the young Stephen seemed to be disturbed by Sigrun's sudden loss of control, for Zero, all it did was to help him recall his past. Or specifically, the times of the Dark Revolution of Atros.........

_________________________________________________________________

He had been a lieutenant in the employ of Louis de Ville's revolutionary force then, and there was much slaughter, not all of it for the purpose of feeding the hunger of the vampiric population of the revolutionaries. When they had taken over the capital city, which would be renamed the City of Darkness, he had watched, as Louis ordered the mass deaths of those they had overthrown. At that time, the fledgling Zero had fervently believed in the righteousness of Louis's course, but he had spent decades afterwards wondering if what he did was the right thing. He had often wondered whether he should have stood by and watched while helpless prisoners were slaughtered by the thousands in the bloody campaign against those who were involved, however slightly, with the previous Dictator.

It would take him a long time to realize that, however barbarous, such actions did indeed have a purpose, a need. That was something the young Stephen have yet to learn......

_________________________________________________________________

"Dawn approaches. It's time for you to return to the safety of the rooms."

Snapped out of his own thoughts, Zero realized belatedly that Sigrun had chosen to spare the rest of the insurgents, and instead ordered them to be taken to the gallows. That didn't sound very good, for some reason........in fact, it sounded eeriely familiar.

"So, Herr Sigrun", Zero thought morosely, "Have you become like Louis, Louis when he was a new King, too? Have you succumbed to the thirst for bloodshed, that all new leaders suffered, as well?"

But he was not being fair to Sigrun, and Zero knew it. He knew very well the necessities of a revolutionary leader who had just taken the position of the country's leader, and while they were less than palatable, they were deadly necessary, and he had no doubt that Sigrun would do his best to atone for his sins in the future, just like the current King Louis of Atros had done when he was just newly-crowned. Sighing, Zero was reminded of just why it was that for over 500 years, he had tried to distance himself from the Atrosian court as much as possible. Court intrigue could get too much for anyone, even if he be a ageless vampire.

Shaking off his sadder thoughts, Zero looked up, and smiled as Sigrun asked them to take cover from the sun. "I wonder what would happen if Hondur and Stephen sees me standing around in the sun without taking any hurt?", he thought to himself. No doubt they would be stunned speechless......but now was not the time to show off. With that thought in mind, Zero got into line behind Hondur, and stepped through to the portal.

"Oh jeez.......I gotta do something about my hair......."

OOC: Hey Rick. You forgot that your space station is in imminent danger? :p

Arleni smiled warmly as she turned and summoned the portal. It began as a small circular shape in front of them, swirling rapidly. As time passed, it was pulled farther apart by unseen forces and soon was large enough to acommodate passage.

She turned back and spoke, "That is a portal. Knowledge to form one requires great attention to detail, and must be able to connect to the destination point. With skill and practice, further distances can be covered."

She turned and leapt through the portal disappearing in a blink. Seconds later, she reappeared, atop the talans of Upper Taria. She led Aeris to her home, where she would stay the rest of the night, as short as it was. Once inside, she addressed Aeris,

"You may rest here until Sigrun comes."

______________________________

Sigrun was the last to depart through the portal, glancing around at the Coliseum. He knelt down and crouched, scooping the sand with his hands. He brought it to his face, sniffing the blood, sweat and tears that now had become a permanant addition to the Coliseum.

"Farewell to you o challengers. Your death was not for naught."

He stood and let the sand drift out of his hand, billowing away in the soft breeze. He breathed in deeply and departed through the portal.

On the other side of the portal, they were waiting for him, standing off to the side. He smiled at them softly, and then turned his eyes to the waterfall. So relaxing... he thought to himself, before ushering the vampires into his home that sat to the left of the waterfall. There, they would be safe from the dangerous rays of sunlight.

Inside, Sigrun made his way to the living room and collapsed onto the couch, where he lay, staring out the window at the brightening sky.

______________________________

Eleán shook his head in disbelief. Finally, he pulled out a small parchement and feather pen and wrote a note to it. Not daring to get within range of the weapons seen on Avto's person, he used a spell to settle it upon Avto's crossed legs.

"Strange individual."

The letter would tell Avto the result of the Trials, and would direct him to Upper Taria. He would have to gain Sigrun's permission to pass into the city itself though. Yet strangely, Eleán had the feeling that wouldn't be a problem.

He turned and walked away, glancing back to see if Avto had awoken. He hadn't, naturally. He glanced down at Elysa and laughed slightly.

The approached a small skiff that still sat near the docks on the banks of the tributary that to the River Aria. He held Elysa's hand as she stepped into the small craft and then followed her. He spoke, "Upper Taria, please."

The boatswain nodded and accepted the payment and pushed off. Soon, they were traveling rapidly down the tributary and out into the open waters of the great River Aria, heading northward. Great trees could be seen on the banks, and the sun could be seen beginning to peer over the tops of the trees.

Upon her first steps upon the talan, Aeris looked down at the floor, wondering how it is that the large platforms are able to support the weight of the Elven homes. Yet, a part of her felt almost......at home, in this place, somehow. For some reason, she felt like she had been here before. As she let herself be led by Arleni into her home, she smiled at Arleni's offer, and replied with, "Thank you, my Lady Arleni."

It was then, that she saw a vase of elanor flowers, perched on top of the living room table. With a gasp, Aeris approached the golden blooms, wonder in her eyes.

"I remember seeing these flowers before......", she whispered. "......but where? It was a long time ago......I don't remember......." Turning to Arleni, she asked, "Lady Arleni, what are these flowers called?"

_________________________________________________________________

Seeing that all the vampires were in the home of Sigrun, and that Sigrun himself had found a place to rest, Zero smiled. Brushing down his hair, which had finally decided to become somewhat more obedient than before, Zero promptly walked out of the room.

"Hey.....Zero?", a voice from the room asked, probably Stephen's. But Zero ignored the voice, for he no longer needed to hide from the sunlight. Coming back into the living room, Zero was almost to the door before the exhausted Sigrun realised what he was going to do.

"Hey, Zero! Wait a minute! The sun is almost up!"

At Sigrun's warning, Zero smiled, and turned to his old friend. "Didn't you see me in the sun the last time round, Sigrun? Have you forgotten?"

"Oh, yeah..........you never really explained that to me........"

"Perhaps later, old friend. Right now, I'm gonna go find my amor. I'll be waiting with Aeris when you come", Zero gave a wink, before disappearing out the door.

Immediately, he took flight from the talan, intent on finding Aeris as quickly as possible. But one glance told him that he would get hopelessly lost in the Elven city, with its maze of talans, stairs, and whatnot. Shaking his head in bemusement, Zero flew back to Sigrun's home instead, and walking into the living room, he said to Sigrun,

"Hey, sorry old friend, for waking you up again. But I don't really know where Aeris is right now.........you have a map or something I can follow?"

Arleni smiled, "Those are elanors. My favorite kind."

She watched as Aeris bent to smell them. So familiar...

Her hand slid to her shoulder and underneath her sleeve. She could feel the slight change in texture upon her skin, the strange birthmark that identified the female line of all Greenwoods. It was a small seed image, with a sapling beginning to grow out of it. The mark of fertility, the mark of survival.

She studied the girl and wondered if she too held that same birthmark...

___________________________________

Sigrun opened an eye and chuckled, "I figured you'd be back. Northeast of here about ten miles. Take this."

He tossed Zero his cloak.

"Anyone that thinks of stopping you will see this and know that you are there with my blessing."

He rolled over and breathed deeply. He suddenly rolled back, "You'll be looking for Arleni's home. Depending on where you land on the talans, you'll have to ask for directions from the locals. Some do speak the common language, but most don't."

Following Eleán, Elysa just managed to stifle a yawn, an indication that she was more tired than she had realised. The last few days had been more hectic than she was used to, life for her in Tarlachia had until recently consisted of going to her classes and enjoying the sights that the nation had to offer, not that she would exchange the last two days for anything. These were events that would stay in her memory for a very long time.

Taking hold of Eleán’s hand, she climbed aboard the skiff, and practically fell into the nearest available chair. She looked at the sky, watching as morning slowly broke upon them. Turning to her companion, she smiled at him tiredly. “If I feel this drained for merely watching, I can’t imagine what he must be feeling like.” She took in a breath, and let out a long, relaxing sigh, her eyes closing against the growing light, her thoughts filling with events from the Arena. “But it was definitely worth it,” she said quietly, sounding as if she was beginning to drift into sleep.

Hondur sat down in a large chair and relaxed. He was safe from the harmful rays of sunlight and his mind needed rest after using a substantial amount of telekinetic force. Almost asleep, the ancient vampire watched in surprise as Zero stepped out into the light and soon returned, completely unharmed. His foreign ally was becoming more mysterious every moment. Shrugging it off, Hondur moved back into the chair and closed his eyes.

"You put up quite the fight Maximus, quite different from when we duelled."

Catching the cloak expertly in one hand, Zero put the cloak around himself in the same movement, and found that it fit him quite well. Running his hand down the cloak, he marvelled at the unparalleled Elven workmanship evident in its making, and wondered if he could not somehow obtain a couple of these for himself, and for Aeris.

"Well, Sigrun", Zero answered his Elven friend, "If most of your people don't speak the common language, guess there's not really much point asking for directions, is there?", he joked. "Guess I'll be gone a while. Later, man. Oh, and Sigrun.........", he paused, holding up the fabric of the cloak, "Is there any way I can get my hands on something like this? No, wait.......I'll ask you that later. For now, I'll be gone. Farewell Sigrun, you too Hondur."

And with that, he exited the house, and took flight again...........

30 minutes later.......

Zero was getting tired of flying around aimlessly. Even though he had followed Sigrun's direction, flying northeast for exactly ten miles, he felt no nearer to Aeris than he was back at Sigrun's home. Not surprising, perhaps, considering all the talans and the houses looked exactly the same to Zero, and due as much to Zero's own pride as well as the assumption that it would not be much help, he had not even bothered to approach any of the Elves for directions, even though they were all looking at him as he passed them by.

Finally, he got fed up, and landing on a random talan, Zero went peeking around inside the house that was built on top of it. He saw no one except a young Elven maiden, who was apparently busying herself with some chore or other.

"Ahem.....erm, Miss? Can you help me?", Zero tried. The Elven maiden reeled in shock, then fixed beady eyes upon the strange intruder. Just as quickly though, she reeled in shock once more, as she realized the intruder was a moonwalker.........who was happily walking around in the sun.

"I guess she doesn't understand what I'm saying", Zero thought bemusedly to himself. Exaggerating his expression to comic effect, Zero made faces at the Elven maiden, while pronouncing like a retard, "Dooooooo........yooooou........speeeeeeak.......thhhhhhhe..........cooooommoooooon.......laaaangwaaa aage?"

And to think Zero didn't understand why some of the more snobbish Nobles in King Louis's court treated him like a clown.

_________________________________________________________________

"Elanors........"

Aeris was near speechless, as she studied the elanor blooms, catching a whiff of their fragrance. The experience was almost surreal, as Aeris realised that it was not only the look, but also the smell and the feel of the flowers, that felt so familiar. It was as if she had come across the elanors before........yet at no point in her conscious memory could Aeris figure out when it was.

Then, she realised that Arleni was looking at her intently, studying her. And she had a hand to her shoulder, under her sleeve.......how strange. As Aeris looked back at Arleni, she felt the strange feeling that somehow, Arleni's profile resembled someone other than Sigrun. Even though they barely knew each other.......Aeris felt a strange sense of kinship, however absurd, with Arleni.

"Lady Arleni?", Aeris inquired from her half-bent position, looking up at Arleni. She wondered what the Elven lady was thinking.........

Avto Crusade yawned, as he slowly awoke from his lengthy slumber. As his eyes cracked open inch-by-inch, revealing pale irises to the rising sun, Avto rose from the bench. With a swift movement of his two arms, Avto extended outwards, stretching the sore muscles. Equally as fast, Avto lashed out with his feet, swinging them through air in his morning calisthenics. It was only after he was fully awake did Avto notice the difference in his surroundings.

First he noticed the number of dead bodies around him. Closely examining the slash marks, Avto concluded that he had killed them in his sleep. Sighing softly, while he clucked his tongue in disgust, Avto returned to his seat and sat down in contemplative.

Moments passed, as Avto meditated. With a start, Avto leapt from his seat, his eyes still closed as he twirled around, fighting imaginary enemies that surrounded him. He was a whirlwind of energy and death as he spun around, maintaining a perfect perimeter few could penetrate. As suddenly as it began, Avto stopped, freezing in position, as he mentally surveyed the imaginary foes before him. With a shrill cry of anguish, Avto leapt forth from the stands into the battle pit of the coliseum. Drawing the Swords of Night and Day, Avto spun around in circles, pivoting on the balls of his feet, as he lashed out, the swords working in perfect unison as they “decimated” Avto’s opponents. Time passed slowly . . .

Two hours later, Avto stood stock still in the center of the coliseum, as he surveyed his surroundings, shocked by the feeling of utter loneliness that seemingly appeared out of nowhere and penetrated deep into the soul of his young body. With a heartfelt sigh, Avto sat down hard on the coliseum floor and began to weep , as pent up pain and anguish poured quickly from the bottom of his soul.

Slowly, but inexorably, Avto was maturing from the innocence of his youth to the pragmatism that had long plagued the House of Cala . . .

Stephen collasped into a chair. He closed his eyes and rested, happy to now be safe from the rays of the sun. Stephen stood, took off his weapons, put them on the floor next to him before sitting back down. The fledgling sat there for several minutes before falling asleep.

*********************************************

Golden Simatar Space Agency Space Station Grondu

Lindsey was the first to stop laughing. She did a twirl and looked out the window again to see some red dot getting larger and larger.

"Ummm...guys."

The two men stopped laughing and looked out the window with her. Frank pushed her hair away from the window. "Da hell is that?"

The trio stared at the approaching dot, before relizing what it was.

"Oh Christ." Philp said.

Lindsey suppresed a scream and held onto Frank as the group watched as death approached. The beam shot past the large solar panel array. The Simatarians braced themselves, but nothing happened. Frank opened his eye.

"We are still alive." He looked at the other two and pulled himself to the obersvation bay. He watched as the red beam slowly disappated.

Frank floated back down. "What ever it is...it is from Tarlachia. They are gonna have a lot to answer for."

"Yeah, but...lets have dinner first." Philp said.

The trio moved to the small mess room and started to discuss on who to tell ground control a beam of energy nearly destoryed them, without sounding crazy.

As everyone else began to recover from the previous nights events, Hondur decided he could do with some sleep as well. A few moments of stumbling around the elven dwelling found Hondur a comfortable armchair for him to relax in.

Within moments, the ancient vampire was in a light sleep.

Sigrun nodded respectfully to Hondur as he himself also fell asleep quickly, exhausted from the battles. His sleep was sound and his dreams kind to him.

____________________________________

Eleán watched the surrounding forest on the banks of the river with idle thoughts as the skiff moved swiftly down the river and headed toward Upper Taria. He glanced over at Elysa, who now was sleeping soundly, lulled to sleep by the river's song. He smiled.

Soon, they were back at Eleán's home, and he tucked her into bed, and whispered a prayer of good sleep for the young girl. Soon afterwards, he too was asleep.
____________________________________

Arleni snapped out of her thoughtful stare and looked at Aeris, "I'm sorry. Come, it's time to rest."

She picked up one of the sets of elanor flowers and held her hand out to take Aeris's own and led her to the room where she would stay.

She placed the elanors on the dresser and turned to Aeris, "Sleep well."

She moved to depart the room.

_____________________________________

The elven woman seemed to pick up the tone in Zero's voice and narrowed her eyes at him. She cursed him in elvish, her voice a mixture of anger and flowing musical words. Finally, she walked away, ignoring the protestations of the vampire.

As this happened, another elf walked up to Zero and spoke, "It's been a while since I've heard such vulgar words from an elf, stranger. You did insult her. Nevertheless, you are seeking Lady Arleni's home?"

Zero looked abashedly after the elven woman, then back to the male elf. He nodded.

"Follow me."

Soon, the two were standing in front of Arleni's home, and the elf departed after a few farewell words, leaving Zero to himself.

Elysa blinked her eyes open several times, as she brought her vision into focus. She panicked for a moment, unsure of where she was as her surroundings first revealed themselves to her, but slowly the scene grew more familiar and she realised that she was in Eleán’s house. She had no memory of how she got there, her last recollection being on the boat coming back from the Arena. The Elf must have carried her to his home and laid her down to sleep.

Stretching her body as she sat up, Elysa’s mind returned to the Arena, not that her dreams had not been filled with the scenes of the battle. The image of the Elf almost being killed in cold blood following his heroic win was still fresh in her mind. But he had survive and lived to follow his destiny.

Yawning, she stretched her body, as she turned in the bed, her feet touching the cool floor. Getting up, she walked over to the window, staring out upon a new day. She sighed, knowing that her time here must surely be coming to an end. She had spent two glorious days with Eleán, and did not want them to finish. Shaking her head she berated herself silently for being so foolish.

Aeris watched as Arleni departed the room. That sense of kinship with Arleni still lingered in Aeris's mind, and as she looked at the elanor blooms on the dresser, she was suddenly struck with a sense of deja vu. To her, it felt like going to sleep amidst the fragrance of the elanor had somehow been part of her past.......except she didn't know when that could be.

Confused, and yet at the same time tired out from the night's exertions, Aeris prepared herself for sleep. Praying silently as she did every night, she cast a calming charm on herself, and slowly felt herself falling into a deep dream.......

_________________________________________________________________

Looking at the entrance to Arleni's home, Zero could sense Aeris's presence in there, although he could also sense, from the weakening aura, that she was putting herself to sleep. He smiled bemusedly to himself, as he recalled the outraged expression of the Elven maiden that he had so unwittingly insulted.

"Better watch myself around here. Not a good idea to have Sigrun's people mad at me.", he thought, as he opened the door, in time to see Arleni exiting a room, presumedly that of Aeris.

"Good morning, my Lady Arleni. Is Aeris here?"

Eleán watched Elysa from the bough of a nearby tree, to her left and higher up than she. He turned back to watch as the sunrise suddenly broke free of the early morning clouds and cast its golden rays upon the Aria Forest and upon Upper Taria. He smiled warmly as he welcomed the new day, bringing to his lips his song of his heart. It was one that Elysa had heard before, Vanya Sulie.

He closed his eyes as he fell into the song, letting the words awaken his very soul and bringing great serenity to heart. His voice rose higher in pitch, yet still remained quite melodic. He smiled as he heard other elves in the city taking up the song as well, until it seemed the entire city sang with the golden voices that conjoined the glorious dawn. They sang together, in perfect harmony, and furthermore joined by the morning birds. The sparrow that often visited Eleán appeared once more and settled upon his upturned knee. It's voice joined in the concert, bringing its own music to the song.

_____________________________

Arleni turned as she heard Zero's greeting and smiled, "Master Zero. Yes, but she sleeps now. Would you care to have something to drink as we wait for her to awaken?"
_____________________________

Sigrun awoke to the songs of the elves in the nearby treetop city floating with a cheerful harmony through his window. He looked about the room, to find that Hondur had retreated to the safety of his room. All the better for him for the incoming sunlight would have hurt him. For a few moments, he pitied his friends, unable to see the beauty of the rising sun, to behold the coming of a new day as fresh as the morning dew. Zero was the rare exception, having had the blessing of heaven. That guy had gotten in with the right crowd, and had been rewarded for his faithfulness to Aeris.

Aeris...I must see her today. he reminded himself as he got up and prepared a quick breakfast before setting out. Soon, he walked into Arleni's home, where he found Zero and Arleni sitting and conversing quietly at the table, with drinks before the two. Zero, naturally had a drink that had blood in it, a result of a quick spell from Arleni. The two looked up and smiled as Sigrun entered.

"So the warrior of legend lives to another dawn!" Arleni commented with a smile, before getting up and placing a kiss upon Sigrun's cheek, "It is good to see you rested once again, my cousin."

"As you too, Arleni." Sigrun replied, returning the kiss in a likewise manner. He turned to Zero and nodded, "Zero, good to see you as well. I take it you're enjoying the sunrise eh?"

Sigrun smiled warmly and chuckled.

Zero chuckled along with Sigrun, and he shook his head. "That was pure evil, Sigrun. Mind you don't repeat that in front of the rest, old pal, or they'll get jealous and pummel me senseless."

He took a long gulp of his blood wine, and stood up.

"To be honest, Sigrun. Before all of this, I thought I could take you on sword for sword, and match you in battle. Perhaps even best you, if I may be truthful. But now........", Zero chuckled again, this time a little wistfully. "Now I can't be so sure I can match your skills, Sigrun. What you displayed back there was real skill. Now I'm glad to be in your list of friends, Herr Sigrun, 'cause goodness knows what my fate would be if it was the other way", he chuckled.

"So, Sigrun. What's your plans today? I don't have any of my own."

Sigrun smiled, "Let's hope it remains that way, Zero. I'd hate to stand against you in unfriendly battle."

He considered summoning a drink to hand, but decided against it, and so he moved to the kitchen where he poured a drink for himself. It was one of Arleni's personal teas, and it so happened to be his favorite. He took a sip and returned to the others.

"I have come here today with the expectation to see if I can uncover more about Aeris. There is something special about her, but I cannot put my finger on it. I intend to uncover it."

Arleni nodded appreciatively. She too had noticed something rather strange about the girl, and more so than just observation of elven traits. She had a suspicion, but chose to keep it to herself for now.

Sigrun looked over at Zero and asked, "I take it you'll be hanging around to see what happens?"

As she continued to watch the world waking up from her position by the window, Elysa smiled as she heard the beginnings of the song, instantly recognising the owner of the voice. Looking about her, trying to determine his location, she finally gazed upwards and caught sight of the elf she already considered a good friend. By this time, the song had grown, and now was more of a chorus affair than a single singer. She smiled at Eleán then closed her eyes, letting the song sweep over her.

The melody filled her with happiness, and despite her limited knowledge of elvish, she felt she understood what the song meant, as if the song itself revealed its meaning to anyone who heard it, not through the words but by its essence. She could not remember the last time she felt so calm and relaxed, so at home with herself. She laughed lightly, and shook her head as her eyes opened, once more presenting her with the view of the day dawning.

OOC: GU, I'll take control of your characters again, to keep the thread going.

IC:

Zero nodded, "Of course. My dear Aeris has something to share with the world, I'm sure of that at least."

Sigrun chuckled, "You've always been a good mentor and friend to her, Zero." Zero blushed slightly, "Nah, just taking care of the innocent." he replied witha wave of his hand.

They heard the soft footsteps of Aeris as she appeared in the room. She had jus woken up, and her eyes still were slightly heavy. "What's going on?" she asked in elvish. Sigrun raised an eyebrow and replied in a likewise manner, "We're going to find out today. You're exhibiting elven traits, traits I'd like to identify exactly."

Zero looked at Sigrun blankly, "Hey, hey now...I don't like not knowing what's being said!" Sigrun gave him a look, shutting him up.

Aeris thought for a moment, then spoke in elvish once more, "Elven traits...yeah, I noticed them lately too..." Suddenly she gasped as she realized she had been conversing with Sigrun in his native tongue. "Oh my!" she exclaimed in common.

"Come, we've little time to waste, Aeris." Sigrun commanded in common, leading the way out the door. Arleni was the last to exit, closing the door behind them. They made their way to a different section of the treetop city of Lower Taria. Once there, they could see it was a training ground, often used for training of elven children in the arts of their bloodlines. Today however, it was vacant, at Sigrun's request. A transparent wall of slightly reddish hue rose up behind them. It would contain any spells that might be cast wildly about.

Arleni gestured that Zero should remain off to the side while she and Sigrun put Aeris through the tests.

Sigrun instructed Aeris to the center of the square, "To the center." Once she was there, he continued, "Now we all know you can speak the language, so this lesson shall be continued in that language. Are you ready?"

Aeris nodded hesitatingly. Sigrun smiled and spoke in elvish, "We're going to start with a few of the basics. Attack and defense spells."

With hardly a moment of time in between, Sigrun cast his hand forward, sending a bolt of electricity hurtling toward Aeris. She froze in fear, yet somehow muttered something in elvish, watching as the shock was reflected back to Sigrun. He avoided the shot, and watched as it hit the tree nearest him. Instantly, the tree healed, a result of area spells set into place long ago.

"Interesting," he said, casting a ground quake toward Aeris. The ground fractured quickly and raced toward her. Then, it suddenly stopped as she stomped her foot before the oncoming quake. The ground fell silent once more, and she knelt down to touch the ground with a finger. Instantly, it merged together once more, the crack disappearing. She looked up to Sigrun.

Sigrun was surprised, for she had shown both a strong ability to completely stop an oncoming attack, and heal the ground. Both required great strains of elven blood in her veins. His suspicions were getting stronger...

Arleni stepped forward at Sigrun's beckon. Together, they suddenly cast multiple spells against Aeris. They watched as the girl suddenly caught the spells in her hands, and merged them together, forming a greater attack which she returned to Sigrun rapidly. A semi-transparant shield formed a dome quickly around him, and absorbed the attack.

Finally, he had enough to work with. He beckoned for Aeris to approach. She did so.

"Aeris, I must test your blood now. I am sure now you have elven blood in you. How I do not know, but I intend to find out..."

Aeris nodded in understanding, and watched as Sigrun withdrew a small dagger and took her hand. He glanced up at her momentarily before suddenly slashing her open palm.

"Now I want you to put your hand to the ground. Whatever results will determine your lineage, and where you sit in the line."

Aeris nodded in understanding, and did as he instructed. As her blood touched upon the ground, she withdrew it sharply in surprise. Her blood had soaked rapidly into the ground and seconds later, a small shoot began to rise rapidly upward in front of them. Taller and taller it grew, revealing the blood's content. It was magical in its presence, and grew before them. Its trunk was strong, the branches spreading gracefully to the mid-day sunlight.

Sigrun gasped, as did Arleni. Zero could be heard exclaiming, "Holy mother of Atros!"

Sigrun and Arleni looked at each other in disbelief, then at Aeris. She looked back at them, "What? What does it mean?"

Arleni was the first to speak, "You...your blood is of a strong lineage. Notice the strength of the trunk, of the branches. The stronger the branch, the stronger your position in the lineage..."

She reached out to take hold of one of the branches, lowering it slightly. It seemed to glow abnormally, "This is you Aeris." She traced her hand along the branch until it conjoined another branch, "And this is me..."

Sigrun gaped at the truth that shone before them. "She's your daughter?!"

Now it was Aeris' turn to react. She simply lost her balance and collapsed. "I..I'm a Greenwood?!"

Arleni knelt down to Aeris, taking her hand gently with her own, "Yes...I am your mother. I wasn't sure of it last night, but I had a suspicion. You look so much like me..."

Sigrun looked back at the tree to study it. He found his own branch, which was the thickest of all. The lineage of royalty. Aeris was in the line for the throne... He looked down at her and knelt down as well.

"Aeris...the blood does not lie...I welcome you with open arms..."

She looked up at him and hugged him, "Thank you..." She looked back at Arleni, who had tears in her eyes, "Mother," she spoke the name at long last, "why do you cry?"

Arleni shook her head, "You weren't supposed to be born. But it happened...and I was ashamed..."

Suddenly, multiple voices could be heard from outside the compound, and they turned to see that numerous elves had stopped and stared at the arcanic tree that had appeared in the middle of the square. They looked at Sigrun, then Arleni, and finally at Aeris. They realized that the blood was Aeris' own, for her hand lay exposed to their sight.

They did the unexpected, and bowed one by one. Sigrun looked back at Aeris, quietly speaking, "They bow, for they see the truth as well."

It was a stunning revelation. The idea that Aeris was so much more than she seemed was an idea Zero had lived with for many years. He just didn't realize just how startling the truth would be when it came. Sighing in disbelief, Zero sank to his knees with the other Elves, unable to describe just what he was feeling now.

The adolescent girl he had picked up on the streets of Emerald City just two years ago, the girl he had almost killed in mercy, but decided to save instead. The girl he had loved all this time, the girl whom he had seen grow from the young mortal that she was, to a budding rose that she is now. The girl that he had seen blossom into the fledgling Nephilim that she is now, whom he had trained in the ways of the world as best as he could, whom he protected all this time.

And now, the girl who has now revealed herself to be an Elf as well. Not only an Elf, a Greenwood, a descendent of Sigrun himself. Stunned speechless, Zero crawled to the Greenwoods, not knowing what to say.

"My task is complete. I have found the hidden side of her that Liam suspected was there. I have discovered Aeris's lineage. My task is complete."

Silently, he put a hand on Sigrun. As Sigrun turned to him, Zero tried to speak, but his voice cracked from his effort at trying to keep calm. Taking a deep breath, Zero tried again.

"Sigrun.........what does this mean? For us? For me? For Aeris?"

Sigrun pulled Zero to his feet and spoke, "You bow to no one, my friend. Not even Aeris. She may be a Greenwood, but you are an equal in my eyes. As for your futures, it is up to you if you wish to remain by her side. I will arrange for you to have your own home here in Tarlachia if you so wish to remain. Perhaps we can arrange a relationship with Atros of some sort. Or, you may return home. As for Aeris, considering she is only third in line, she is not required to remain here in Tarlachia. Thus, she will be permitted to return to Atros if she wishes."

Arleni kept silent the whole time, gazing at Aeris who had turned to survey the elves who remained bowed at the knee. I am dishonored, for I forsake her so long ago... She turned and disappeared from sight, moving to a garden that held a small pond in the center. She knelt beside the pond, staring into the water. As she remained there, tears began to slide down her face. I am shamed...

Slowly, gracefully, Aeris rose from her kneeling position, not noticing Zero, Sigrun, or even Arleni walking away into the shadows. Instead, her gaze was on the Elves kneeling before her, her eyes taken in wonder. Like a prophesied one, Aeris walked towards the Elves, struck in wonder at what she had become.

No more was she just an ordinary girl. No more was she a half-blooded Nephilim, still seeking for her past. Now, she was amongst her own people. She was a descendent of their leader.

Suddenly, she reeled, struck with embarassment. Only now had she realized the import of the Elves bowing to her. They had accepted her as their Princess, and Aeris, accustomed to a life of subservience, was not used to this sudden change.

"Oh, for grief! Please get up!", she panicked, chattering away in Elvish, and trying to get all the Elves to stop bowing to her. She walked amongst them, picking them up by the shoulder. "Please, there's no need for that!", she continued chattering in Elvish, overwhelmed. But as soon as she had started panicking, her eyes glanced over at where Arleni was, and she stood distracted, forgetting what she was doing.

Slowly, she walked over to where Arleni was, and knelt beside her. She gazed at Arleni's tears, and then, with a tenderness that was part of her being, she wiped away Arleni's tears with her finger.

"M-Mother", she stuttered, still overwhelmed, but needing to know the truth. "Won't you tell me how......how all this happened?"

_________________________________________________________________


As they gazed over at Aeris's panicked attempts to stop the Elves kneeling to her, Zero gave a weary sigh. "No, Sigrun", he said at last. "She is finally here, amongst her own people. I cannot take that away from her. I do not know......."

He gave a sigh, closed his eyes, then turned to Sigrun.

"Liam Celadrin of the Nephilim gave me a task long ago, Sigrun. This task, was to find out just what in Aeris's lineage has hidden her from the Nephilim's knowledge for so long. And I was to stay by her side until the day the truth was revealed. That day has come, Sigrun. My task is complete. And yet........I do not know if I am to remain by her side, or to leave."

He squeezed his eyes shut, wondering just what it was that is overwhelming him.

"I would like to stay by her side, Sigrun. But look at me!", he suddenly yelled into Sigrun's face. "What am I? I am a vampire, a moonwalker! Her home is here, and yet here is where I cannot stay. And Liam has never told me what I should do once Aeris has found her place in the world. Look at her, Sigrun. Look at your niece, look at your flesh and blood! She is young still, with so much hope in her future, so much growth she could accomplish with time. And what about me? I'm a changeless entity, doomed to remain eternally young, doomed to stagnate without any growth! She will grow, Aeris will, and I cannot help but see her grow beyond me one day."

He strode a few paces in front of Sigrun, his mind troubled. Suddenly, he screamed into the air, such that some of the Elves still hanging around covered their ears in agony.

"Liam Celadrin! Where are you! Come down, I say! Come down and tell me what I should do now that I've done as you told me to!"

Arleni shook her head, "No...I have failed you. I cast you away to die. And yet you return to shame me."

She lowered her head once again, her tears having resumed their incessant paths down her fair cheeks.

____________________________________

Dreban, Tarlachia

The piercing scream that emanated from Liam's artifact seemed to fill the entire mansion with a resounding roar. A roar that challenged the mysterious leader of the small, yet well formed and powerful clan. He rose to his feet from his study, and looked in the general direction of which the challenge had come.

Zero...my thoughts go to wonder why you trouble yourself so. the seraphim asked silently to himself. He reached for his staff, which seemed to stand upright on its own, held up by its own magical anchors to the earth. He emerged into the early morning sunlight. He closed his eyes slightly as his seraphic wings emerged from his backside, as powerful and beautiful as ever upon the immortal's form. His true form was more brilliant, more perfect, but it would be too much for any mortal or immortal not of the heavens to behold. Thus, he contained himself within this form of earthly proportions.

The wings lifted with the warm gales of the morning air, still slightly damp with dew. He rose quickly into the skies, rising above the lower clouds that spread gracefully, silently across the Tarlachian skyline. He moved southward swiftly with the speed only capable by his kind.

_________________________

Upper Taria, Tarlachia

As the minutes passed while Zero and Sigrun waited, the elves that had been watching them from beyond the training center had slowly begun to disperse, as Sigrun had instructed them. Still, only a few remained when suddenly the skies above began to brighten considerably more than was naturally possible. All eyes present turned to gaze upward into the clouds as they beheld the graceful creature descend and land lightly upon the talan. He nodded silently to Sigrun as he folded his six wings behind his backside before he turned to gaze upon the distant form of Aeris kneeling beside her mother, consoling her. For the moment, Aeris had not immediately reacted to his presence. She would know however, that Liam was there. After all, she too was angelic. He studied the girl from afar, noting the distinct features of elven form. He finally turned to his fellow clanmember.

"It appears her mystery is at long last, revealed. I commend you, and Aeris for your dedication to this purpose. Still, I sense you are lost now, for your current destiny has been met, as predicted."

Zero did not say anything, but listened as he clanleader continued speaking. He felt understanding flow into his soul, emanating from the angelic figure that stood before him.

"Now, you wish to know what to do. You feel lost, stuck in a time ensnared by forces of the past. You feel like an antique relic of the past, your progeny having becoming much more than you could ever forsee in your entire life."

Liam paused and looked over to Sigrun, "I sense a similar allure in your soul as well."

Sigrun did not respond, preferring to avert his gaze away. Liam returned his attention to Zero,

"Come, it is time I show to you the next unfolding part of your destiny."

Liam held his hand out in warm patience. The mystery that he spoke of seemed to draw like a magnet. It required one to completely allay their entire trust in him, to trust in the unseen destiny so clearly marked in the seraphim's mind. What did he know? One could not tell by the look in the seraphim's neverending abyss of blue eyes and kind features. One could get lost in the warm essence that flowed like an untapped spigot from the very soul of the seraphim.

OOC: I'm wanting to put this thread to a respectable end, so I'm gonna take over your characters again GU.

IC:
Aeris did not speak as she felt helpless, unable to summon words to console her mother. She rested her arms across Arleni's backside, hands gripping her shoulders gently. She turned Arleni and pulled her close.

She spoke softly in Elvish, "Mistakes can always be amended. I refuse to shame you, mother..."

Arleni raised her face to look into Aeris's eyes. Their eyes spoke messages impossible for words to translate. A new door had opened for both, but the path beyond would unroll itself before their feet.

So long as they had each other...

Sigrun approached, and watched the two females hold each other, conversing softly to each other. He knew better than to interfere. What went on between them was to remain between them, he knew. Only they would be able to work out the rough parts of the past. Finally, he watched as they rose to their feet, turning to greet his presence.

"It would be best to prepare for the coronation tonight." he said simply, before turning away and leaving the premises. The two females followed at a distance, walking slower, as if to take in all they had seen and experienced with slow deliberations.
______________________________________

Liam traveled with Zero away from the elven city. They passed amongst the clouds, each traveling by their own methods, Liam with his wings, and Zero with his vampiric skills. Soon, they had returned to the earth, to the northeast of the forests. They landed in the plains, the forests far from them, but not out of sight. The plains stretched out in every direction, seemingly to not be part of a nation that harbored nearly three billion citizens.

Liam held his hand up to Zero, commanding him to halt. He spoke, "Long ago, there was a prophecy spoken, written down and stored into the archives."

He held his staff out, and commanded Zero to hold his hand out. Zero complied and watched as the staff tapped the palm. Instantly, a scroll appeared and materialized. Zero looked up at the clan leader and then back to the scroll. Liam urged him on.

"Go on. That is the prophecy of which I speak."

Zero complied once more and soon began to read aloud the prophecy:

"In innocence she was born,
Of Earth and Sky combined,
The best of both enjoined.
A paradox her consort is,
of light and of dark,
for the good of his heart.

The sands of time shall spin,
ever downward in glass,
An ancient line shall rise,
to a pinnacle in the sky.
Peace shall reign supreme,
Secrets come alas,
power anew to rise.

What once was lost and gone,
is found and saved,
Destiny smiles upon
those who give their grace."

Zero realized the importance of the prophecy, muttering to himself, "Aeris...and I." He looked up to Liam, "But what does it mean? It seems the prophecy is filled now. Except for the last bit, the part in which destiny smiles upon those who give their grace. I do not understand."

Liam smiled, putting a hand to Zero's shoulder. "Destiny smiles upon you, Zero Celadrin."

Without pausing for a response, Liam suddenly took firm hold of Zero's shoulder and launched him skyward, holding him with a strong hand. Higher and higher they rose, the sky alarmingly becoming brighter as they rose. Soon, Zero couldn't bear to keep his eyes open, his body reacting violently to the angelic power that seemed to desire to rip his very soul apart. He barely heard Liam's words "Trust me. Soon, this will no longer be a concern for you."

Zero released a horrified scream as an even brighter light shone upon him, sending great convulsions throughout the vampire's body. Liam's hand gently held him, but firm. Finally, Zero could feel the pain subsiding quickly, and he opened his eyes. He first saw Liam standing to the side of another figure, whose entire body shone greatly, too greatly to make out details. Only the being's voice spoke to Zero.

"Zero Celadrin. The Merciful. I am pleased of your deeds upon the Earth. You have remained faithful to your quest, and have fulfilled it's end. You have saved the life of one of our own, and have helped her reveal her second race. Nephilim she is, and Elf. A most peculiar combination I must say. Now, I reward you. No longer will your relic be required to survive the sunlight. No longer shall the light of the heavens harm you. The curse of the light shall be lifted from your body and soul!"

Zero felt a warm sensation suddenly flood his entire being. His body rose under an unseen force. He suddenly felt detached from his body, and he watched in silent fascination as his soul stood before him. It bore what seemed to be a thousand eternal scars. Scars that spoke of his imperfectness. Suddenly, a number of them glowed red, before vanishing from sight. As they disappeared, another image began to form upon his soul; an image that remained shadowed for now.

"This mark will be monumental to the destiny that lies further ahead for you. Until the proper time, you shall not know what it is."

The seraphim sentinels would see this mark on his soul, and allow him passage through the Gates. Such a mark was rare to be recieved, and a gift to not be taken lightly. He didn't have much time to think about them as his body was reassembled once more, and he stood before the nameless entity and Liam.

"Your quest complete now gives unto you another. You are to be the mentor, the guidance for young Aeris. Although she has found the people of half her existence, she still needs your help to uncover her full potential as nephilim. Liam will be there as well, but he is busy often, so that is where you come in. I know you will not let me down, Raphael Celadrin."

Zero looked up at the entity, despite the pain it gave to his eyes.

A blinding light suddenly surrounded Zero once more, but this time it bore him no pain. In fact, it seemed to heal him of his pain from earlier. When he blinked several times, he found himself upon the plains once more. He glanced up to the setting sun. He looked around in surprise, looking for Liam. He was not far. Liam nodded, "Time passes faster in the heavens. Ironically, it also moves much slower in other ways. It is too complicated to explain. For now, I believe you have a coronation to attend. Come, I shall attend this event myself."

The two rose into the air once more, heading toward the city of Turath, which lay to the east of the Aria forests. It was here the coronation would take place. It was here they would witness the greatest event in Tarlachia for thousands of years.

With a start, Avto Crusade discovered the presence of the letter from Sigrun. Gazing down at its contents, Avto shook his head and sighed. Upper Taria... I have no wish to socialize with near-immortal beings that are Sigrun's compatriots... It is enough to learn some of what my ancestor represented and his abilities, but I fear that Sigrun knows no more... Oh, Lance Crusade... Why do you hide what you are from me? Why? Blowing his breath out, Avto moved woodenly, stepping over the dead bodies that littered the arena floor.

His pale sapphire eyes flickering as he glanced from side to side, Avto leapt into the air and tread wearily as he made his way home, his stay in Tarlachia over. As he moved, Avto understood that he would one day return to Tarlachia much wiser and older, but until then, Avto would search for the Circle of Swords, a place hinted in the one of the few writings that Lance Crusade had left behind...

As the dying light of the sun sank into the horizon, still defiant of the overwhelming night sky that chased it westward, thousands of lights and fires slowly flickered into existence in the city of Turath. Tonight was a special night for all of Tarlachia, for it would mark the beginning of a new era. Tonight, the world would watch as the nation changed leadership and government. It would be an event to remember, a highlight in the years of history that filled the books of Tarlachia.

As the night settled into its domain, one could see the thousands of luminiscent eyes that suddenly shone in the darkness, marching toward the city from far lands. The beating of large wings could be heard as they approached from the mountains, swooping dark shapes that raced across the plains. With each passing shape, a gust of wind followed, heralding with belated roars the passing of the dragons.

Machines and vessels moved toward the capital as well, carrying citizens of every race, humans, draconians, vampires, and elves. Excitement was in the air, the anticipation of witnessing an event that promised to be forever etched into their memories.

The capital city of Turath sat upon a hill, proudly declaring the sovereignty of a proud nation and rightful nation. Here, the center of Tarlachian society and cultured swirled about like a magnet, drawing citizens from all over. Tonight, that magnet was exceptionally strong, catalyzed by the upcoming coronation of a new leader, chosen by prophecy, proven by trials. Here, in the castle of old history that sat upon the highest peak of the hill, would be the center of the Universe for one night.

Naturally, as befitting of any large events, there were vendors lining the streets and shops, boasting their wares, encouraging visitors and citizens alike to get their one of a kind souvenirs. The souvenirs were almost as varied as the millions of faces that passed by. From emblems of the Tarlachian flag, to minature figurines that were gathered in collective sets, to clothing of every kind displayed on the shelves and racks of the ambitious vendors. Voices cried out in varying languages, making sure all understood the benefits of owning such wares.

Government buildings were staffed with additional security forces, and traffic directed in an orderly fashion. Many chose to leave their vehicles outside the city and attend the coronation on foot. The earth shook with a slight rumble as millions of feet pounded and congregated within the walls of Turath. The city was alive tonight, more so than it had been in over a thousand years.

________________________________________

Eleán walked with Elysa by his side past one of the five gates that led into the city. He wore a clean outfit, casual in nature, yet still giving him a sense of regal air, befitting the elf. He held his head high, scanning his eyes amongst the others that walked with them toward the castle. He had been to Turath only a few times in his life, for he preferred to remain in the elven lands surrounding the River Aria. Still, he saw things that intrigued him, things he had not seen before on a previous visit. This city was changing quickly by the year, always bustling with new faces, new ideas, and new constructs. Yet, one thing remained a constant in the city upon the hill. Eleán turned to gaze upon the castle that moved into view as they neared. That castle had been here since the first days of Tarlachia, its weathered stone walls and towers whispering the secrets of the ages to the consentious souls that listened.

He held his hand out to point out the castle to Elysa, though it wasn't really necessary. "Here is the home of Tarlachia, the place in which our new leader shall take residence. The castle has been here since the early days of Tarlachia, when the lands stretched only a third of what they do now."

________________________________________

Two figures floated silently to the rooftop of one of the buildings in Turath. Liam folded his wings behind him, and turned to Zero. "I would like to find Aeris and Sigrun before the ceremony. I'm sure you'd like to talk to them as well."

Zero nodded in agreement, "Yes. Yes I do." He soon levitated and floated alongside Liam as they made their way to the castle's side entrance. Upon landing on the ground, they were confronted by security detail, but soon were escorted inside at Sigrun's recognition of their identities. Soon, they stood before Sigrun, who was dressed now in a more formal attire, robes of dark emerald green color with golden trims and golden designs that graced the entire outfit. Sigrun smiled, "Zero, it is good to see you!" He took Zero's hand warmly and shook it, before turning to Liam. "As for you, I'm afraid I've not met you officially yet. I remember you were the one to open that gate during the trials though."

Liam nodded to confirm Sigrun's words, "Yes. That was I. I am Liam Celadrin. It is my pleasure to shake the hand of a worthy warrior...and leader."

Sigrun smiled warmly, taking Liam's hand with his own and shaking it. "Well met, Liam Celadrin."

Just then, the trio heard Arleni and Aeris chattering to themselves as they appeared out of a side room, before suddenly falling silent as they saw the visitors standing near Sigrun. It was clear that the two had made great effort during that day to warm to each other, to begin the long process of learning about each other.

Sigrun held his hand out to the women, who now appeared absolutely stunning in their new elegant dresses, which merely enhanced their regal physical features. Aeris was the first to speak, rushing forward to grasp Liam in a warm hug. "Liam! I'm so glad you came! I'm a Greenwood, can you believe it?!"

Liam chuckled. "Yes. I know Aerial." he replied, addressing Aeris by her nephilim name. "I have been guiding Zero with your growth since the first days of the clan formation. I am pleased of his loyalty to the tasks set upon him. It can only speak better reputation upon his name." Liam turned and gave Zero a wink, for he had been vaguely addressing the visit to the Heavens earlier.

Aeris looked up at Zero who returned her warm gaze with his own. She embraced him and spoke softly, "Thank you so much...I couldn't have done it without you."

Zero tried to downplay her words, but she wouldn't hear it. She turned to pull Arleni closer, "Zero, Liam, I'd like you to meet my mother, Arleni Greenwood."

Arleni allowed herself to move closer, nodding to Zero and Liam. She knew that Zero was aware of the relationship between the two women, but nevertheless, Aeris seemed excited to declare it openly once again. She did not reach out to shake either of their hand, instead giving a slight curtsy.

Sigrun turned to greet another man who appeared from yet another room. He was John Marshall IX, the current President of Tarlachia. "Mr. Marshall, I'd like you to meet my friends."

Marshall stepped forward to greet Zero and Liam, "Pleased to meet you. I cannot tell you how important this event has become to the people of Tarlachia. However sad I am to leave this honorable position, I willingly accept the prophecy's truth and turn over the nation to Sigrun. I have watched his progress through the Star Trials, and find him much more worthy than I to rule this nation. He has been challenged in ways I cannot even dream of bearing, much less triumphing as much as he has."

Sigrun chuckled slightly, "Come on now Mr. President, I am merely another like you, with just a little more flair!" He snapped his finger, spawning a goblet of wine to his hand, as well as one to each of the others present. For Zero, the wine was exchanged with blood. "Come! Let us toast this new era!"

They all raised their goblets, listening as Sigrun continued. "May our nation be ruled with wisdom and strength. May Tarlachia live thousands of years of prosperity and honor!"

Zero spoke up next, "May Sigrun never be caught with his pants down in national issues!"

They all laughed as they replied, "Hear hear!" and downed their drinks. President Marshall then spoke to Sigrun, "We have another hour until the ceremony officially starts. Reports are coming in that countless numbers of people are still moving toward Turath, wanting to see this coronation. It's a good thing I had arranged for mutiple large screens to be placed around the city and in other cities for the citizens to watch. I never expected this many people to be coming!"

Sigrun smiled and replied with a grin, "I guess I'm popular."

Liam and Zero took their leave respectfully, and returned outside to wait for the ceremony to begin. It had been arranged that they would be in the front of the masses, getting front row seats to Tarlachia's most important event in years. Such was the same for the rest of Sigrun's friends that were not Greenwoods.

Stephen looked around at the masses for several minutes before jumping up to the roof of a hardware store and making his way across the rooftops. When the roofs ended, he jumped back into the crowd as he headed towards the castle. The young vampire climbed a tree, noticed it was too short and jumped to a taller one.

Stephen sat down on a branch, having a perfect view for the upcoming ceremony. He leaned back against the tree and waited.

Hondur's eyes wrenched open as the sun plunged beyond the horizon, allowing darkness to reign once again. Promptly moving to his feet, Hondur straightened his robes out and moved outside, taking in a deep breath of the clean forest air. That was one thing he truly enjoyed about this place, it wasn't densely polluted like Emerald City.

Closing his eyes, Hondur allowed his mind to wander, searching through the masses of conscious beings until he came across one that was familiar. Sigrun.

"Sigrun, whereabouts has everyone wandered off to? It's looking pretty deserted around here and I thought I should probably attend this ceremony? Care to give me directions?"

The ancient vampire waited patiently as he leaned against Sigrun's home, enjoying his calm surroundings.

Sigrun let a small smile cross his face as he heard Hondur's questioning words. He replied in a similar manner, his thought-speech traveling quickly over the lands back to Hondur.

Hondur. About time you woke up. I presume you are still in or near my home by the waterfall. Head east from there. As soon as you're out of the forests, you'll undoubtedly cross the paths of many who are making their way to this city. Turath is the name of the city. Follow the masses, they'll lead to here. See you when you get here.

He turned back to the mirror, adjusting his clothing, returning to the contemplative thoughts he held in his mind.

It had not been necessary for Elysa to follow where Eleán pointed, as her eyes were already focused on the sight ahead of her. She smiled as she let her gaze fall upon the elf walking beside her. “I did a little studying of the castle and the capital, hoping it would help with my classes.” She suddenly frowned, hoping that no one had sent out a missing person’s report for her, it had been several days since she met Eleán. “Seeing it for real will certainly be an improvement to just reading about it.”

She smiled to herself, as she continued to the journey towards the town, not really certain why they were travelling there. She trusted Eleán and knew that there must be something of interest happening there. He had been so kind to her ever since she collided with him in the market, showing her around, inviting him into his home. Despite the amount of time she had been in Tarlachia, it was now amongst the elves that she felt that she had truly arrived.

Sigrun let a small smile cross his face as he heard Hondur's questioning words. He replied in a similar manner, his thought-speech traveling quickly over the lands back to Hondur.

Hondur. About time you woke up. I presume you are still in or near my home by the waterfall. Head east from there. As soon as you're out of the forests, you'll undoubtedly cross the paths of many who are making their way to this city. Turath is the name of the city. Follow the masses, they'll lead to here. See you when you get here.

He turned back to the mirror, adjusting his clothing, returning to the contemplative thoughts he held in his mind.

"Alright, I'll see you soon then."

Breaking contact with the elven warrior, Hondur stepped forward and glided up into the air, floating several metres above the ground. Spinning around to face east, Hondur began a reasonably quick flight through the forest, dodging tree branches as they attempted to swat him out of the air. Quite some time passed but eventually the vampire found himself outside the forest, looking upon the rich fields of Tarlachia and the masses of people heading to a hill top city.

With his destination now easily in sight, Hondur sped up, willing his mind to carry his body faster through the night sky. Within minutes the vampire landed upon the large castle at the peak of this hill and was immediately met by several guards, all bearing bows...

Hondur was greeted by several elves, all with their bows notched with silver-tipped arrows. They did not move except for one. He questioned Hondur,

"State your name and purpose for being atop this castle. I warn you to refrain from hostile activity."

Realising that his long lived life could be ended with a quick arrow to the head, Hondur carefully stood straight and place his hands together, making it obvious he had no weapon within them.

"My name is Hondur, a vampire from Assington. Sigrun is welll aware of my presence for he invited me."

Satisfied with the given information, Hondur fell into silence and awaited the judgement of the armed elves.

The elves nodded and instructed Hondur to follow them inside the castle. Soon, they were bowing respectfully to Sigrun and stepping aside to allow Hondur to enter.

Sigrun smiled and clasped Hondur's hand. He was now dressed fully for the ceremony, now simply awaiting the commencement. He spoke,

"Hondur, my friend. I was just thinking back to the first days we knew each other. I never did apologize for my brash, hotheaded reaction to you. Though, you know, you did give off enough trouble yourself."

He laughed, then grew solemn again, "Much has happened since those days, and as a sign of this, I want you to be by my side, with the others...Arleni, Aeris, and Zero, when the ceremony ends and they present me to the crowds."

Sigrun smiled broadly, "What do you say, brother?"

Hondur grinned at the mention of his and Sigrun's past. They had given eachother quite a significant amount of grief over the years in their vicious brawls of rivalry. Hondur had been a much more arrogant person back then, believing that Skadi was his sire and she shouldn't have any other fledglings. Thankfully he had grown out of such thoughts and come to accept Sigrun as an ally.

"I can't blame you for the way you reacted. As I remember it, I was the one that attacked you after you helped Skadi rescue me from that dungeon. If anything, I owe you an apology and a great deal of gratitude. Thankfully we can speak to eachother these days without flinging insults and demolishing streets. I'd be glag to stand by your side."

Eager to see the ceremony, Hondur looked around the room then back at Sigrun.

"You look ready to me, shall we go?"

Sigrun nodded, "As ready as ever can be." He led Hondur outside, where several servants stood waiting.

"Go with them, they'll take you to the VIP section. The ceremony should start in less than twenty minutes, if I'm not mistaken?"

He turned to the servant to see if this was indeed true. She nodded, "Yes. Fourteen minutes to be exact."

"Ah, fourteen minutes then, Hondur."

He smiled and watched as Hondur walked away. He himself went to the room where the President was waiting, already ready to go.

"Almost time, Sigrun. How're you feeling?"

Sigrun raised an eyebrow, "Not so sure...almost kind of surreal to me. Like it's a dream..."

The President laughed, "You'll get over that soon enough once the people start pestering you with their issues."

Sigrun gave a slight frown, then laughed as well.

The chaos of voices emanating from every part of the city of Turath suddenly joined in a cheerful roar of approval as a band somewhere began to play a song that was projected on speakers spread throughout the city. As men, women, children, elves, draconians and vampires all turned toward the Castle, they watched in feverish anticipation as the doors remained closed to their prying eyes.

The music rose in power, the chords striking tunes in each person's heart, building the anticipation to nearly explosive levels. Voices throughout the city died down as they watched the doors either in person, or on the city-wide screens.

Inside the Castle, President John Marshall took a deep breath and nodded to the doormen when he heard the crowds silence themselves as they waited. The doormen bowed in response and took hold of the great door handles and pulled.

Immediately, hundreds, if not thousands of cameras began to flash, and news reporters whispered in hushed tones the proceedings of the ceremony. They watched as President Marshall strode out and smiled proudly unto the nation. He held his hands up as the crowds showed their approval of his appearance. As soon as they quieted down once more, he spoke to them, his voice amplified by a microphone attached to the inside of his collar.

"Citizens of the United Realms of Tarlachia! I greet you! Today is an important day in the history of our fine nation of our fine peoples!"

The crowds roared and waved their flags. Marshall held his hands up once more. He licked his lips as he spoke once again.

"Today, our fine nation will change leadership upon recognition of an ancient prophecy and blood right! I'm sure you are all aware of this, and by now, know the one who is to take this esteemed place at the head of Tarlachia. I present to you, O Tarlachia, the one whom I speak of...Sigrun Greenwood!"

The crowds cheered, stomped and clapped as the band simultaneously began to play music again. The doors opened once more and all eyes watched as the elven designate strode forth with his head held high, and a slight smile upon his face. He waved to the crowds, who granted him another round of applause, before he stopped before President Marshall and bowed respectfully.

Marshall smiled and bowed in response as he took Sigrun and instructed him to stand to the side so the people could see the proceedings clearly.

"Master Sigrun Greenwood, of the ancient royal line of the Greenwood line...you stand here today of your own accord, and your own merits proven in the Star Trials, do you not?" Marshall asked clearly, looking Sigrun in the eye.

Sigrun nodded. "I am."

Marshall turned to the crowds and addressed them, "Citizens of Tarlachia, you have seen, witnessed, and now heard the desires of Sigrun Greenwood. You have seen his endeavors in the Star Trials, you have seen him triumph over many foes by himself, including representatives from each of the races of Tarlachia. The final decision rests with you. Do you accept and validate the prophecy of the ancient royal line of the Greenwoods, and accept Sigrun Greenwood as your new leader?"

The tremendous approval response was so loud that a number of windows throughout the city shattered. Hands rose into the air, the faces of each citizen flushed with excitement and approval. At last, Marshall held his hands up once more, before turning to Sigrun.

"Sigrun, if you would." he asked clearly, indicating that Sigrun should take a kneeling position. He himself stepped to the side and drew a longsword that was well known to have belonged to the first king of Tarlachia thousands of years ago. It's hilt was inlaid with diamonds and sapphires, the blade a shining blade of silver attached securely to the hilt. He turned to Sigrun and spoke aloud the announcement.

"Today is May twentith of the year two thousand, three hundred and seven. Today the Greenwood Prophecy of the Return To Power is fulfilled. I hereby grant to you, the nation of Tarlachia, and all her lands, citizens, territories, militaries, economy, secrets, and whatnot to your control. Henceforth, from this day, the government of Tarlachia is hereby officially changed to that of an absolute monarchy, in compliance with the Greenwood Prophecy. I now stand down of my own free will and sound mind to relinquish the nation of Tarlachia to you!"

He tapped the longsword to Sigrun's shoulders and then held the blade downward, holding the hilt. Sigrun leaned forth and took the blade in his hands and kissed it, signifying his acceptance of the change of powers. Marshall gestured that Sigrun should stand and hold his hand out.

He ran the blade across Sigrun's palm, instantly drawing blood that coated the edge of the blade. Marshall turned the blade about and presented the hilt to Sigrun who accepted it and turned to the crowds. He held the sword up high and showed the blood on the blade. Sigrun had shown that by drawing his blood upon the blade of Tarlachia, he would dedicate his life to the welfare and prosperity of the nation. He swore this on his own blood oath taken right there.

Marshall had one more procedure to complete before the ceremony was officially finished. He turned and watched as an elven maiden stepped forth and bowed, holding an emerald pillow with a simple, yet elegant crown atop it. He picked it up and turned to Sigrun, declaring loudly, "His Royal Highness, Sigrun Greenwood!"

Marshall instantly took to a knee, bowing his head. Sigrun turned to Arleni and Aeris whom stood nearby, smiles broad across their faces. He gestured to them to approach. Picking up their respective crowns, he placed them upon the heads of both elven women and turned to the crowds. He declared to them. "In relation to the Greenwoods, I declare Arleni Greenwood and Aeris Celadrin Greenwood, princesses in their own right to the throne of Tarlachia!"

The crowds roared greatly, the noise deafening and joyous. During this time, Sigrun turned to his friends nearby and smiled to them. He waved them closer. They would accompany him as he walked at the head of an organized asembly of a platoon of each of the military forces of Tarlachia. They would follow a path that would wind in a circle throughout the city, and allow the citizens of Tarlachia to see their new leader up close.

As he strode down the steps, he was distinctly aware that as he passed, the crowds dropped to a knee and bowed their respect and loyalty. Silence befell them as he approached, and all eyes watched as he passed regally.

He who was once an enigma of war and violence had now officially become the shining leader of a proud nation. Much wisdom had been gained, and some at great cost. He had learned much of the ways of Tarlachia during his long years. Now, he stood before them, the king of the 'nion that aids'. Arleni stood to his right, and Aeris to his left, they too watching as the crowds bowed to them as well.

Stephen smiled as he watched Sigrun become leader of Tarlachia. He applauded with the crowds as Sigrun accepted the crown and the sword. He moved from his spot when Sigrun beconed his friends closer. The vampire moved behind Sigrun, sending a quick message to his friend.

"When you had me pinned to that kitchen wall during the coup, I thought you would amount to nothing more than just a punk. Well, I was damn wrong my friend and glad we didn't stay enemies long. Now that you are king...do I have to start calling you 'your Royal Highness'?"

Sigrun turned to Stephen, effectively halting the parade. He stepped closer and spoke aloud his response to Stephen's telepathic message, loud enough for all to hear.

"No, Stephen. I forbid you to do this. You are my friends, and friends bypass the civilities of strangers. Never do I wish to hear you, nor any other friend of mine calling me by my official title."

Sigrun smiled warmly, clasping a hand on Stephen's shoulder, "Understood?"

He turned and the parade proceeded once more. He sent Stephen the reply telepathically, I'm still a punk to some... He laughed telepathically.

Stephen smiled slightly to his elven friend. He was glad he didn't have to call Sigrun 'his Royal Highness' or any other title besides Sigrun.

"You got it Sigrun."

He chuckled as Sigrun's message came to him telepathically. Stephen shot him a message back.

"I wouldn't say you are...well...hmmm....come back to me on that. That is a tough one to agree or disagree. Sometimes you're a nice guy...other times you just kick ass no questions asked."

Turning his head Stephen looked at Hondur. The fledgling sent a brief message to the ancient.

"So Hondur, did you ever think in a million years Max...I mean Sigrun would come so far?"

Stephen smiled slightly to his elven friend. He was glad he didn't have to call Sigrun 'his Royal Highness' or any other title besides Sigrun.

"You got it Sigrun."

He chuckled as Sigrun's message came to him telepathically. Stephen shot him a message back.

"I wouldn't say you are...well...hmmm....come back to me on that. That is a tough one to agree or disagree. Sometimes you're a nice guy...other times you just kick ass no questions asked."

Turning his head Stephen looked at Hondur. The fledgling sent a brief message to the ancient.

"So Hondur, did you ever think in a million years Max...I mean Sigrun would come so far?"

Hondur moved away from the crowds of people as Sigrun invited his friends and family to join him upon a walk through the city. He knew Skadi would want to be here at his side during such a time, yet that was not possible.

Hondur smiled as he thought over Stephen's words, replying physically.

"Not at all. There was a time when I thought his only future would be death at my hands. Times have certainly changed."

The rising sun was still below the horizon as several figures stood upon the rooftop of the Castle. Hours ago, the spectators had finally dispersed, and only a few remained in the city, partying the new change with plenty of booze. Sigrun turned to Hondur and Stephen who stood closest to him. He smiled silently, and nodded to both of them, before turning back to look toward the brightening skies in the east. Still, the sun hid below the horizon.

Arleni sat upon a nearby projection of the Castle, a scroll in her hand and a pen in the other. Aeris sat next to her, idly running her fingers through her mother's hair, straighting any knots and overall strengthing the bond that had been recently forged between the two women. Aeris now held the Blade of the Maiden across her lap, an elegant, yet simple elven blade that bespoke of her lineage. It was Arleni's gift to the daughter. Arleni smiled slightly as Sigrun met her gaze. She returned to the scroll in her hand.


It is with surprising elements that I record this important time in the history of Tarlachia. What was once but only a prophecy has now come to fruition. Sigrun is no longer the vagabond warrior of the woods, but now has earned the respect and honor of his people. His nation. He performed in the Star Trials like none other I've ever witnessed, and to many spectator's satisfaction. He slew the opponents before him with merciless vigor, and yet, showed mercy at the right time. In doing so, he has demonstrated a profound wisdom of understanding, of respect, and love for the lives of others, even those he knew not of. A small army attempted to murder him, but his resolve was too strong.

He also had the help of myself and Aeris to survive. This brings us to another important event that must be noted. Long ago, I, Arleni Greenwood, gave birth to a illigitimate child, spawn of elf and angel. Nephilim, they call children like her. It was only recently that this child became known to my presence once more, and shame befell me of her life. I had forsaken her long ago, and she had returned to haunt my first days with her. In the time since, a bond has formed, a love has sparked in the deep trenches of my insatiable heart. Long have I lived in the shadow of war, devoid of the joys of love. Long did I live, believing that love had finally become extinct like many species I have witnessed pass into oblivion. And yet, like a renewed child of mysterious design, love has conquered my heart like never before as I finally beheld the person behind this nephilim.

Aeris Celadrin Greenwood is this Nephilim's name. My daughter...and rightful heir to the throne of Tarlachia. She is strong, young, and full of optimistic hope. In time, I fear she may lose this very hope that holds her together and keeps her invincible to the toils of the world. She has never faced war, and I fear for her life when she does. But for now, a new life has begun for her, one I will no longer shy to nurture to full growth.

Together, Sigrun, Aeris and I shall lead Tarlachia into the rising sun of the Golden Age of this fine nation. I ask the Fates to bless this nation, and its leaders with wisdom, courage, and understanding of what it takes to uphold the honorable name and status of Tarlachia.

Long live Tarlachia!


She finished the final entry of her scroll and rolled it up, sealing it in its container. She looked up to Aeris and raised her hand to gently caress her daughter's fair cheek. She whispered, "You will go far. I know you will. It is in your blood."

The two women shed a few tears as they turned to watch as Hondur and Stephen took their leave into the Castle. Alas, they would be unable to watch the first sunrise of the new Age.

They would still watch the nation, and their friends thrive through the nights like a lighthouse to foreigners and other nations alike. Tarlachia would become a model nation for years to come, especially under Sigrun's rule. They all had faith in him...

The sun rose with a sudden explosion of light unto the Earth, sending golden rays far into the skies above them. Sigrun smiled warmly to the sun.

OOC: That's the end of this story, and I thank everyone who participated for their contributions. You have made this one of my favorite threads, and it was not possible without your help. Thanks, and I hope you enjoyed it too!