The Beast Ascending [Archive] - EQ2 Forum Archive @ EQ2Wire

Caelen

10-27-2007, 09:16 AM

((This story is a collaborative effort between me and Ekoko, and tells the account of the first meeting between my character Rhylea and herself, and the subsequent beginning of their lasting friendship and many adventures together with one another. It runs a bit long, but I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it. Now, onto part 1!))His heart pounded with every step he took away from that awful place. The crickets cheered in a glorious symphony as he passed them by. The moon smiled upon him, illuminating his path. His head pounded with the rhythm of the night, throbbing with every step he took. His chest rose as he took in the brisk night air, exhaling a hot plume that vanished before his eyes. The air was sweet; it tasted of freedom."They won't be far behind," he thought to himself. "Pathetic men, they were, to think the two of them could stop me! Ha! Not now, not tonight. Not ever again! As easy as plucking the wings from a pixie devil, it was. And the looks on their faces! Those doe-eyed buffoons; they'll need to send a lot more if they want to slow me down." The fur on his hands was stained a deep crimson, all the way down to the tips of his claws. He could not tell if the blood was his own or the guards' who had just tried to detain him. Or was it hers? He didn't have time to stop and think; he had to keep moving if he was to survive the night.He had never been as far into the hovel as he was now. Looking left, then right, it made no difference to him which direction he went. It all looked so similar. Every house reminded him of his own, every one of them a cage. "Which way do I go?" he grunted to himself. "I've never been outside that house. Puh! Not living so fancy now, are they? Not living at all. Ha! Painting it up to pretend it was anything more than a shack."He crept quietly through the darkness, crouched under the shadow cast by the row of buildings. He peered up at a dimly lit window above him. His ears perked up as the faint sound of a music box floated down from the cracked pane. He stepped out into the moonlit street as though he was being lured by a siren. A look of peace began to settle upon his striped face. He saw her-his only friend. He stopped suddenly and shook his head. "Broken windows, broken home. It takes more than happy pictures to cover up the gashes and the holes. They believed their lie, but not me. No, nothing more than a cage, it was; a cage to hold me- their loyal Beast. Not a man, not animal, just Beast. Live to serve, serve to live." The lullaby began to slow as several guards dashed around the corner and froze at the sight of their target. As the last note clicked to an end, the Beast turned his head and faced them. "Now," he roared, "I live!" He darted away, charging into the darkness once more. Once they regained their composure, the guards continued in their pursuit. Though he was large, he was exceptionally agile. He cut swiftly into the chill night air, dashing through alleyways, leaping from fences as though they were springboards. It didn't take long for him to lose his captors, nor did it take long for him to lose himself. "Must keep running," he thought to himself, "but to where? The gate must be nearby!" He growled and began to climb, hoping to get a better view from the rooftops.His forearms tensed as they strained to pull the rest of his body onto the shingled slant. He dug his hind-claws into the side of the wood paneling and pushed himself up the rest of the way. Cautiously he stepped toward the top, trying his best to remain unseen. He crouched, stone-still, looking as terrible and as frightening as a gargoyle while he gazed down upon the world. Slowly his eyes searched the streets below, until at last, in the distance, he found what he had been looking for. Shadows danced across the doors as the torch light flickered. There were no guards at the post; it was likely they were already out searching for him. He turned his head and frowned as the distant voices of the guards echoed up from the streets below. Slowly he extended his leg, inching his way down the other side of the rooftop. His tail curved upward, helping to keep his balance as he carefully slinked his way down. He could hear the guards getting closer by the second. He went to take another step, when suddenly, a loose shingle gave way under his foot and a resounding crashing came bellowing from the cobblestone below. The guards charged toward the broken tile. They were now directly under him, making for a perfect cushion to break his fall. Wasting no time he dove down onto the men below, knocking them to the hard stone street, and then quickly bolted in the direction of the gate.He grinned while he strode to the large wooden doors, watching the men shakily rise to their feet. They shouted, futilely, for him to stop, but nothing would keep him from achieving his goal. He barreled toward it and lowered his shoulder, bracing himself for the impact, then, with a loud thud, was thrown onto his back. He blinked his eyes to clear the fog that had covered his vision. The stars spun rapidly in the dark sky above him, and as he tilted his head back he saw the guards running upside down toward him. The doors would have to wait. Slowly he rose to his feet, gripping his shoulder. It felt as though a thousand flaming hot needles were being pushed into his arm. No matter, he would only need one for this fight.The three armored men stormed toward him, swords raised, in a chaotic fury. The beast bared his teeth and stepped thunderously toward the man in the center. With incredible speed a clawed hand struck at the guard's throat, kicking his feet up from under him as though he had been struck by the branch of a tree. As one man landed onto the ground the other two circled around, swinging wildly. Their blades sung as they slid past his ears, and the three of them moved at a heart racing tempo. Chancing at an opening, he drove his elbow hard into the side of one of them, and with a sharp crack, the man dropped to a knee and began coughing up blood. With two down, it wouldn't take long to finish off the last. The two of them sparred, one swinging, the other parrying. The dance went on until he growled impatiently at the guard and lunged. With a quick slice, a red gash streaked down his striped arm. For a moment they both paused, and from the look on the man's face he could tell it was merely a stroke of luck, and it had just run out. As he clutched the man by his throat he took a long hard look into his eyes when, very quickly, they darted to something behind him then back. Without hesitation the other guard thrust toward the beast, and just as quickly, the beast drove his elbow into the man once more, this time breaking out several of his teeth. As he gazed at the two guards that were lying on their backs, moaning, he gave a hoarse laugh. His smile quickly sank into a scowl as his arm flared up in pain. Gritting his sharp teeth he took hold of his shoulder and roared in agony as he popped it back into its socket. When he had finally quieted down enough he heard a faint whimper come from behind, and slowly he turned to meet its source. The last man had given up his fight and was slowly hobbling toward the large doors. Calmly, the beast strode after him. As the man turned and saw that he was being pursued, he let out a cry to open the gate, and not long after one of the large doors began to thunderously creak open. Seeing the opportunity, the beast began to charge toward the opening."Open it! Open it!" cried the man. But upon seeing his pursuer hotly chasing him down with the glare of sheer determination, or death, set upon his snarling face, the gatekeeper shouted, "Close it! Close it!" Loudly the gate clanged as the doors shifted their direction, and the gap slowly began to close.Faster they both sped. Giving a quick turn of his head the man shrieked and dove toward the small opening. The beast followed right behind, and with a tackling roll, the doors slammed shut behind them. Terrified, the guards abandoned their post, fleeing down the long stretch of pavement. Slowly the beast rose; the man, however, lay there, motionless. With a sharp smirk he took a step over the unconscious guard and continued along his way. <!-- /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;}**************************

Amethest

10-27-2007, 02:52 PM

pray continue with your tale ...

Caelen

10-30-2007, 06:00 AM

High above him a tower glistened under the moonlit sky. He remembered seeing it long ago, when he was still very young. Most of his memories of that time had been lost, or suppressed. Regardless, he cared not. All he cared for was finding his way out of that city. He knew his freedom lay just beyond his reach; he could feel it in his bones. Deciding that the only familiar way would be the best way, vague though it was, he stalked under an archway and headed toward the tower. Slowly he crept, then hissed as he gazed upon two more men that were guarding the next gate. At this rate he'd have the whole city after him. "No," he thought to himself, "this will take some planning." A moment later he cupped his hands to his mouth and belted out a shaking roar in the opposite direction. Turning back, he smiled as he watched the two guards stride toward him. Quickly, he flattened himself against the wall and waited. It didn't take long for the two guards to dart past him, and just as quickly, he picked one off and held him until he blacked out. Soon after, the other guard paused a moment, realizing his partner was not at his side. When he turned to see what had become of him he was met with the image of the very large Beast. Regaining his composure, the guard grabbed for the hilt of his sword, but was suddenly stopped by a crushing grip around his wrist."We won't be playing that game, this time," snarled a growling voice from above the man's head."W-what d'you want from me?" the guard pleaded."A way," he growled again. "I want a way out of this city, and you are going to help me.""How am I s-s'pose to do that?""You, my pathetic little friend, are going to capture me. You'll make it look like you're taking me prisoner and take me to someplace where I'll be safe, then all you have to do is set me free and I'll be on my way.""C-capture you? They'll never believe it!" spouted the man. "I mean, jus' look at me, an', an', look at you! You're a bloody monster!""Then you had better make it look extra convincing," he snarled through his teeth. "Because if you don't, I'll be sure to rip out what little spine you have in you. Now, bind my hands; and don't make it too tight!"With a whimper the guard did as he was instructed. He kept staring at the large clawed hands as he tethered them, imagining them digging deep into his back. With a shudder he finished the binds, and with a look down at his friend he couldn't help but wish it had been himself that had been the one who had been knocked out.The two walked under the archway and headed toward the gate, beast in front, man in back. As they passed a statue of a knight riding a horse the one in front gave a snort. Together they arrived at the large wooden doors and with a knock the one in back announced he was coming through with a prisoner. Slowly the doors creaked open and the timid guard pushed his prisoner through."Fine catch you got there mate!" exclaimed one of the men standing guard on the other side. "I hear they've been looking for that one all night!""Y-yeah, yeah," he replied. "He jus' kinda landed in me arms. Lucky I guess." He gave a half-smile and continued down the street. People gawked at his prisoner as they passed them by, but with a rumbling growl, what little amount had been standing outside of the pub quickly vanished behind its doors.Slowly they marched on over a small bridge. The water flowing underneath caused the guard to wish he could have stopped at the pub for a drink. He'd need quite a few afterward if he made it out of his mission alive. The street curved around and they made their way under another archway. A guard dog barked at the prisoner and with a loud hiss, it promptly went quiet. The beast gazed ahead at a long tunnel, a large building with three doors, and next to it, another large gate with several men standing watch. The two of them passed a large clock that ticked, and whirred, and spun. The same could have been said about the gears inside the guard's head. Slowly they made their way toward the gate. As they arrived at the doors one of the guards put up his hand."Halt," he barked. "State your business for entering the castle." The prisoner narrowed his eyes and sneered at the watchman. His keeper cleared his throat nervously. "I'm here to bring this fugitive into custody, Sir.""What!?" growled the prisoner."Quiet you!" shouted the watchman. He sized up the prisoner then turned his gaze back to the guard. "You apprehended this... beast?""I-I had some help, Sir," he said loudly, trying to mask the snarl that was coming from in front of him."And where is your help now?""They had other business to attend to. I-I told them I could take it from there.""Very noble of you, and very brave," the watchman sneered. He looked down and noticed the captive struggling with the ropes that bound his hands. Two guards stepped forward to take hold of the prisoner. "Very well, we'll take it from here. And what was your name? I'll be sure to pa-""You! You betrayed me!" shouted the prisoner. He had gotten one arm free just as one of the men took hold of it. He threw him back and leapt onto his captor. Slowly he dragged his claws down the man's face, over and over, while the other guard struggled to pull him off. Finally turning his attention to the man on his back, he threw him over his shoulder and began strangling him with the cord that was still bound to his wrist. Once the man was still he bolted away toward the tunnel he had seen on their way into the courtyard. He barreled through the door and into the other side.The captain that had been interrogating them had slowly slipped out of sight during the chaos. Upon returning to the scene, this time, with several more men, he saw one of the guards gathered around the other two that lying on the ground. He slowly stepped over to where the two men were laying. The third guard was standing over the one who had just had his face carved up. "This one's not dead yet, Sir," spoke the guard. "But I reckon when he comes to in the morning he'll wish he was. "Follow him," the captain instructed to the others. "I want you to bring that animal to me, dead or alive."**************************

Amethest

10-30-2007, 02:34 PM

still reading <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Caelen

11-02-2007, 04:47 AM

He burst through the tunnel entrance and charged wildly down into the winding darkness. Torchlight flickered across his heaving body; every breath was like dragon's fire. The world around him was merely a blur as he streaked through it. Several times he stumbled, but never did he fall. He was drunk with adrenaline, relentless in his pursuit. The night throbbed in his ears and his heart pounded furiously. All around him large trees swayed back and forth, creaking softly behind walls of crumbling stone. Nearby he heard the rush of a stream, and made his way toward it.The water was cool and refreshing, extinguishing the fire that burned within his lungs. He allowed himself to rest only for a moment, for just as he had taken a drink he caught wind of a distant voice. Water and saliva dripped down from his jaw and off of his chin as he perked his head up. Though it was dark, he could vaguely make out the body of the watchman coming toward him in the distance. There were several others accompanying him. They weren't his pursuers, but he was sure it wouldn't be long until they joined in the hunt. He quickly bolted for a nearby tree as they came to the bridge that was only a few yards from where he had just been kneeling. He dared not breathe as the men walked past. He tightly shut his eyes and pressed his back hard into the tree, and then, all was quiet. He slowly exhaled in relief. He was exhausted, and it would surely be the end of him if he was to be caught again. Then came the others. From behind he could hear the men talking. They were talking of him, and of his crimes. They called him a beast, and an animal-a ruthless savage that must be taken down. His claws punctured deep into the bark behind him. Was he any more savage than the beasts that held him captive within that cage they called home? Was it not savagery to taunt him and chain him in that dark cellar? They got what they had deserved, all of them!"No!" he argued to himself, "Not all of them. Not her, she was kind to me. She was my friend." The images of her swam through his head. She was so small, and so fragile, and always wearing a smile. She never recoiled in fear at the sight of him, and would sing him songs as she brushed his fur. She was innocent, and yet she had been punished for their crimes. Was it savagery that had forced his hand? Before he could relive that moment again he was snapped to awareness by something ahead of him. There was a soft shuffling in the distance and for a moment all hope of escaping was gone. He put his fists up, ready to battle; each one strained heavily as he lifted them into the air. The bark was splintered and broken where he had just been grasping it. Then, he sighed in relief when he saw a small deer come into the clearing. His tail twitched as it inched toward him, doe eyed and curious. It stared at him stupidly and he thought of how easy it could be to snap its neck; his lip curled at the thought. Were he truly a beast it would have been dead already. Its little tail wiggled and he waved his arms to shoo it away. It took a few steps back and bolted away with a snap. The sound of a broken stick resounded through the night air and immediately he heard a cry come from behind. The chase was on once more.Quickly he leapt from the shelter of the tree and head down the side of the stream. An arrow whizzed past his ear and he knew he'd have to get somewhere out of the open. Several more arrows clinked against rocks and splashed into the water. He darted left sharply and bounded around the corner of a dimly lit building. He let out a cry as a sharp pain exploded across his leg and he fell to the ground. For a moment the barrage of arrows had stopped and he looked back to see how close his hunters were. His answer came with the loud thud of an arrow splitting into wooden wall above his head. Onward he ran, his leg aflame, through a cluster of trees. As he burst out into the clearing he slowed his pace, and his heart sank as his eyes met the dark pool of water and the towering wall of stone that wrapped itself around it for as far as he could see. He stood shaking his head in disbelief. He had gone the wrong way, and now he would be cornered once more. His only hope was to lose them in the glistening blackness that lay at his feet. Quickly he stepped into the frigid darkness and his breath was stolen from his lungs. He moved down, disappearing little by little into the murky water until only his dark eyes remained, then they too melted from sight.He emerged under a dank catwalk and his ears brushed against the slimy boards as he waded toward the other side; his leg throbbed hotly as they propelled him under the surface of the icy water. He could hear the men shouting for him, trying to coax him into showing himself as he moved toward the shore. He was careful to not make a sound, not even a drip of water that fled from his body to rejoin the pool, and ever so slowly he rose from the blackness. The striped fur that covered his body glistened under the moonlight, and as he shook the water from his paws his eyes met with the small building from under which he had just come. He heard the men still cooing into the night from some distance behind it and grunted out a laugh. Perhaps, he hoped, he could hide inside for the night. It was a fool's hope, but the thought of running any more exhausted him, and he needed to get the arrow out of his leg soon. Slowly he slid the door open and limped inside.The room was dark, save for a few lamps dimly burning in the corners. There were several mats laid out on the floor as though they were being readied for use, yet there were no people in sight. Several gloves and batons were hanging on the wall, and as he took a step toward them his heart jumped. There was a person sitting silently in the shadows. Curiously he stepped forward to get a better look, fists raised. He did not want to fight, but he also did not want anyone alerting the guards to his whereabouts. The figure remained quiet, and unusually still. He gave it a small nudge and then smirked a little. It was only a practice dummy. He continued cautiously on toward the next door and carefully slid it to the side. The room smelled of incense and oils; his nose crinkled and he snorted."Who's there?" asked a calm voice from the shadows ahead.He froze, not even daring to blink. There was someone here after all."I know you're there," spoke the voice. "I can hear you breathing."**************************

Caelen

11-06-2007, 11:57 AM

He watched as a figure began to form out of the darkness in front of him. Lantern light danced across a round face and he saw that it was a woman. Her silver-white hair seemed to glow brightly in the dimly lit room. She was gripping a bo staff tightly in her hands as she approached him. She moved slowly, as though each step was calculated and taken with great care. As he looked down into her eyes they seemed to pierce straight through him. Sweat slid slowly down the bridge of her nose, and a small droplet fell from its tiny upward slant. She stopped only a few feet from him and stared at him in silence.He turned to run, but before he even took a step he heard a voice calling from behind. They were coming to check the house. They were coming for him, and this time there would be no escape."You are being hunted?" she asked, and was met with no answer. "Then you are a criminal?" He turned back to face her. She was no longer looking at him, but to where the voice had just come from. If she was to call out to the guards it would be the end of him. He clenched his jaw and pondered as to how easily he could be rid of her; and yet, she had done him no wrong. She was innocent, just like her."They got what they deserved," he said coldly."And so shall you, it would seem," she replied.A growl began to build deep within his throat. "I don't want to hurt you, but I'll have no trouble breaking that little neck of yours if you get in my way.""In your way?" she began as her brows rose. "You are in my dojo and you are keeping me from my work. If I am not mistaken, it is you who is in my way."His eyes squinted and he curled his lip. She was gazing at him with the same piercing stare as before. It made him uneasy, as though it wasn't even him that she was studying, but something beyond that, something deeper. "I'm not the beast that they say I am!" he roared without hesitation. He did not know why, but he felt compelled to plead his case before this strange woman. It wasn't a cry for help, for the guards were likely to barge through the door at any moment. He no longer cared if he was to be caught; he just wanted someone, anyone, to understand him. He looked helplessly down at the woman-there was no change in her demeanor. He was held in place by the same distant look in her eyes as before. The silence between them weighed down on his heart unbearably. He was a fool to think that anyone could understand. He closed his eyes and with a sigh accepted his fate.Out of the darkness rang a voice. "Come with me, we must hurry." She grabbed his hand and led him out of the dojo. He could hear the guards behind them as the two of them swiftly moved through the darkened grove. The stars were a blur as he looked up to meet the open sky, though he felt as though his legs weren't moving at all. The trees spun wildly around him and he fell upon the woman's shoulder. He tried to speak, but had forgotten how. He looked up at the stars one last time before the black sky swallowed them up, and all the world went dark.**************************

Caelen

11-11-2007, 12:31 AM

"You've lost a lot of blood"His head swam as the sound of rushing water flooded his ears. A mucid smell accosted his nostrils as he took in a breath, and when his eyes adjusted he realized he was no longer in the wooded grove."Where are we?" he asked as he tried to stand, but a hand pushed down on his shoulder and he returned to his seat."Don't get up," said the woman. "You need to rest a little more before we can continue."His leg was throbbing, but when he looked he found that in place of the arrow there was now a thick wrapping of gauze. He glanced up and saw that she was holding the arrow in her hands, spinning it slowly between her fingers. He wanted to thank her, but could not find the right words so he remained silent instead."I think you've been poisoned," she continued. "Though most of it should be out of your system by now. Luckily for you it was only a tranquilizer, if it had been made to kill it would have already consumed you by now.""How long have I been out?" he asked."Several hours now. When I last went back to get some supplies the larks were singing and the sun was just beginning to warm the grass."He looked up at her again, this time a hint of uncertainty gleamed in his eyes. Without even a glance from her, as though she anticipated his question, she spoke again."I wasn't followed; there's no need to worry. The guards have been called to return to their posts for the time being. I wouldn't be surprised if they picked up the search again, though, and soon. You seemed to have caused quite a stir within the city." She leaned down toward his leg and began to tend to the wound once more. She pulled something that she had been chewing from her mouth and began to pack it into his wound, then continued. "Is it true what they say? That you killed a family of humans in Nettleville?"He winced as she put pressure onto his leg. He thought about that house, and then of her face. A deep feeling of remorse began to course through his body. "Yes, it is true." The woman paused for a moment at his honest reply, and then continued her work. "Those rings, did they put them there?"Her response caught him off guard. He reached up and began feeling his forehead, then slid his hand down to his nose, bumping over each ring as it passed. He had worn them for as long as he could remember; they had become as ordinary to him as the stripes on his tail."They used them to train me," he said coldly. "I was taught to act like them, but they never allowed me to become anything more than a servant-a plaything-""A pet," she said softly, lightening the pressure on his wound.He sat motionlessly on the damp floor, save for the rise and the fall of his wide chest and the occasional flick of his tail. He had never spoken of himself to anyone before-no one had ever asked. He felt oddly at ease with this woman-she seemed genuine, and kind, and so unlike the others he had come across. He watched her as she bound fresh wrappings to his leg. Her hands were rough and hardened, no doubt a result of her training in the dojo. Her arms were battle worn and lean; and though she moved them as softly and as gracefully as a bird's feather falling to earth, there was a strength that emanated from them. Her face showed no emotion, only dedication to her work. It was youthful, but worn, and around her eyes laid several scars. He watched as the strands of hair that had fallen loosely from behind her pointed ears swayed back and forth, and she never once looked up from beneath them."Well, your leg should be just fine after a little more rest," she said, patting his knee. "The wound was deep but it should heal without much worry. Just try to go easy on it, alright?""As long as I can still get some use out of it, I'll be fine."She sat down in front of him and wrapped her arms around her knees. It was rather cold down there, wherever it was that they were. From the musty smell and the sound of rushing water it was no doubt a sewer of some sort. She rested her head on her knees and closed her eyes. She must have been tired; she had been tending to him all night.His eyelids felt like stones. He blinked slowly, listening to the rise and fall of her breath. Finally, he had some peace. **************************

Caelen

11-16-2007, 12:07 PM

"So what's your name, kerran?"The sudden sound of her voice startled him. He must have drifted to sleep in the silence. He sat up and cleared his throat."K-Kerran?""Yes, that's what you are, are you not?""I don't really know," he replied, looking puzzled. "I have only been Beast, nothing more.""Well that won't do," she said quietly to herself.He watched her curiously. Every now and again she would excitedly raise her chin from the tops of her knees and take a breath as though she might say something; then, with a small look of defeat, she would sigh and rest her head once more. And so it went for some time."I have it!" she exclaimed suddenly after a long while, jumping to her feet. She gave the poor kerran a start."Have what?" he asked rather grumpily as his tail flicked back and forth."A name for you, of course," she said with a grin. Where once the quiet, worn woman stood there now was the image of a young girl, youthful and beaming. "It took me a little while but I think I've found the perfect one for you! Rhylea. What do you think?"Rhylea. No one had given him a proper name before. He liked the sound of it-Rhy-lee. He repeated it to himself several times."I don't know what to say," he began."Then you like it?" she said, grinning, barely able to contain her excitement."I-yes, I do," he said, still repeating the name in his mind."Good," she said with a look of triumph. "Then Beast you are no more, Rhylea."For the first time in a very long while he felt a tingling of warmth settle upon his heart. This woman had saved him. She not only had given him the chance of a new life, but a name to start it with."Thank you, uh-" he paused, realizing he still did not know her name."Ekoko," she said, still smiling. "Ekoko Indoril.""Thank you, Ekoko," he said with a bow of his head.She gave a polite nod and leaned down to change the wrapping on his leg once more. The pain wasn't nearly as bad as it had been hours prior. Whatever she had used on the wound was working, and with a little effort, he slowly stood up."Do you think you can walk on it yet?" she asked, and held out a hand to help him up."I'll be fine." He looked at her curiously as she stood there in font of him with her arm outstretched. A moment later she withdrew it and quickly turned toward him."Ah! You're already up," she said with a smile. "Well good, let's get going then. People are probably starting to wonder where I've run off to."He stretched his arms and curved his back, letting a low rumble of satisfaction escape from his throat. His mouth parted wide as he yawned, baring his sharp incisors, and he gave his side a scratch. He limped over toward the sound of the water and crinkled his nose at its smell. He let out a groan of disgust."Would you like some water before we go, Rhylea?" Ekoko called from behind. Her voice echoed off the stone walls. He quickly hobbled back over to her.He reached for the flask and put it to his lips. The water was cool and refreshing, and tasted clean. He wiped his whiskers and asked, "So where are we going, anyway?""There are many ways to go into and out of the city without being seen. These sewer passages will lead us straight out into Antonica, and you can be on your way to wherever it is you're going. You do have a place to go, don't you?""I was hoping to return to my old home in the Commonlands.""Ah, I see. That's a very long way from here, Rhylea, you know that, right?"He thought about the journey that lay ahead of him. It would indeed be a long one, but in the end it would be worth it. Shaking his head, he said, "The further away from this place, the better.""Very well," said Ekoko with a nod. "Let's get moving."**************************

Caelen

11-26-2007, 05:39 AM

The lantern light flickered dimly across the glistening bricks of the sewer walls, each one a reminder of days past and names that had been long forgotten. The air around them was heavy, and chill. Rhylea's fur stood on end-this place did not sit well with him. Ekoko, on the other hand, pushed onward without even a second glance. Their footsteps echoed down the corridors ahead of them. Every now and again Rhylea's foot would make a splash in some disgustingly dark puddle and a slight groan would escape from under his breath. Ekoko would stop for a moment to let him shake the muck from his foot, then, with a smirk on her face, would continue. Onward they walked through what seemed like an endless maze of tunnels and passageways that wormed their way throughout the bowels of the city. He watched Ekoko as she led them deeper and deeper into the catacombs. She would often raise her hand to the wall and let its contours slide under her fingertips as though she were reading the stonework like a page from a book. Rhylea too put his fingers to the wall, but it didn't tell him anything aside from how much grime it had collected over the years.Strange sounds would often drift down the lonely hallways. A gate would clang shut, or a brick would crumble. Rhylea swore he could hear a voice, whispering, on the draft of air that had just made its way past his head. He balled his fists up tightly and continued to trail behind Ekoko-so closely, in fact, that he did not see the pile of wood in front of them and bowled over it as well as Ekoko down onto the wet stone floor below them."I don't remember that being there the last time," said Ekoko as she rubbed her arm. Rhylea looked back at what he had just tripped over and realized that it was not a pile of wood at all, but an empty, broken coffin."They bury the dead in this place?" asked Rhylea. There was innocence in his voice, as though it was a child asking."Yes, Rhylea, this is where they take the bodies of those that have passed on. There are generations of families resting here below the streets of Qeynos."Rhylea couldn't help but think of her. She was only a little girl, and he had taken her life from her. Would this place be her tomb? Had he condemned her small body to rest here, forever? His stomach knotted up at the thought of it and he buried his face into his clawed hands."Are you alright, Rhylea?" Ekoko asked softly."I don't deserve this!" he exclaimed suddenly. "I've done a terrible thing. And now she'll be down here for the rest of her days because of me! I don't deserve to be... free.""And what would you have instead? If you return to the city you will be killed, and what then? Would your execution bring her back from the dead? What is done is done, Rhylea," said Ekoko, placing her hand on his shoulder. "Don't let this guilt on your heart weigh you down to those dark depths. Use it! Use it to find your strength. You have the chance now to atone for your mistakes, to use your new life to make them right. Do you understand?""I-yes, you're right," he replied, humbled."Then make it right," she said and gave a scratch behind his ear once she stood up. "Come on, we're almost out."Rhylea rose to his feet and together the two of them continued down the winding stony tunnel. The image of the broken coffin was still sharp in his mind, and scattered thoughts of times past collided with those of times to come. From outside the haze of his mind he thought he had heard a voice."Did you say something, Ekoko?""No... but I heard something too."Together they stood in the still quiet of the dark catacomb. Only their shadows dared to dance in the golden lantern light. From the dark depths came the hollow sound of several men."It's them, it's the guards!" Rhylea whispered."Yes, but from the sound of it they're still some distance away. We need to make haste; we've been down in this place for far too long already. Let's go."They sped down the hall once more. The sound of their shuffling feet filled the air around them with a cacophony of noise. Rhylea limped to keep up behind Ekoko as she rushed along in front of him. There were moments when she would suddenly stop, lift her head toward the ceiling then quickly dart down into another direction. Rhylea's chest burned, and the wound in his leg was throbbing frantically. He fought to keep his breath until at last Ekoko came to a halt. He felt a cool sensation around his ankles and saw that they were now standing in a large circular room, flooded with a shallow layer of water. He turned to speak to Ekoko but before he could utter a word a sharp whistle came from overhead.A man stepped his way out from the shadows on the scaffolding above them. He was thin, and sickly looking. The light cut across his sharp features, casting shadows across that distorted his already disfigured face. He pulled back his lips into a frightful grin and screeched with glee.**************************

Caelen

12-02-2007, 04:54 AM

"Well, well, wha' ‘ave we ‘ere boys? Looks like Pus an' the li'l girlie ‘ave lost their way, ‘aven't they?" His jeering was met with the approving laughter of the rest of his comrades who stepped slowly out into the light. Rhylea bared his teeth and let out a low rumble, but was hushed promptly by Ekoko."Leave us be," she spoke. There was an air of warning in her voice. "We are merely travelers seeking a path. We aren't looking for any trouble.""Ha! Did you ‘ear that, gents? No trouble! Well, li'l miss, I'm afraid tha's exactly wha' you've found down ‘ere. This ‘ere be our territ'ry, an' no one gets through without payin' a toll, you see.""This is your territory?" Ekoko chortled. "I'm dreadfully sorry, but by the smell alone I can tell you that no amount of gold could make this place habitable for anyone save for the insects and vermin that crawl their way through this filth."The man's smile quickly sank into a scowl. He clutched his heart mockingly and gave a laugh. "Tha' hurts, li'l miss. Straigh' to the core, tha' was. ‘Ad we known we was gonna ‘ave comp'ny we'd ‘ave tidied up a bit."He stepped regally down the stairs that sank into the murky green water below. Ekoko's head rose slowly and her hands began to close tightly into fists as each step from his heavily booted feet splashed closer and closer to her and Rhylea. She turned her head with the sound of his footsteps as they circled around the two of them. He was like a vulture; his sunken black eyes gleamed at them hungrily. Rhylea wanted nothing more than the chance to claw them out. He stared at the man savagely as his lanky body stepped in front of him. He was ready to spring his attack, all it would take was a quick swipe and he'd tear the man's head from his shoulders. The muscles in his legs became taut in anticipation. Suddenly a fiery pain shot up from his thigh and he winced, trying to swallow the pain. Rhylea began panting from the sheer agony of it. A smirk began to grow across the man's sallow face and he flicked his long greasy hair to side. "‘Allo Kitten," he started, having difficulty containing his laughter. "You look thirsty, care for a saucer of milk?"Several of his men cackled from up above. Rhylea stood in silence, eyes blazing."Well, wha's a matter with you? Can't you talk?" He wiggled his fingers in Rhylea's face then turned to his men and exclaimed, "I think we've got ourselves a mute, boys! No matter, I didn't really wanna talk to you anyway. Now her on the other hand..."Slowly he strode around Rhylea and the sound of his footsteps came to a stop in front of Ekoko. His eyes darted from her head down to her feet, then back up once more. She stared coldly ahead, making no contact with his milky black eyes. He turned to his men and whistled. He turned back toward her and crept his way a little closer. He was merely a few inches from her face now. The smell of his sour breath stung her nose, but even then she remained stone still. Suddenly the air became a little fresher.Rhylea stepped forward, clutching the man's throat tightly, and with a roar that shook the wretch to his skinny knees he shouted, "That's quite enough, you worm. You will clear a path or the only thing I'll be drinking from a saucer this night will be your blood."The man coughed out a laugh. "So he can talk... after all! I wouldn't... be... so hasty, my friend. I assure you... he never... misses."Rhylea heard the sound of an arrow being drawn tightly back and looked up. He turned around and his eyes met with a hooded figure standing on the distant ledge above them. Though the archer's eyes were shrouded by his hood Rhylea could make out a mouth full of grinning teeth, sneering at him from afar."Rhylea, release him," commanded Ekoko."But-" "Release him."The man gasped for air as though he had never tasted it before in his life when Rhylea loosened his grip."Ekoko-""Just stay put, Rhylea," she whispered back. "If you move they'll kill you.""You should listen to your lady friend," said the man, rubbing his throat. He slowly rose to his feet and struggled to regain his composure. He waved his hand in the air and like cockroaches slipping out from a crack in the wall two thugs stepped into the room and stood in the doorway behind Rhylea. In the distance two others splashed down into the water from above and blocked the exit out. "No reason we can' keep things... civil. Now, abou' tha' payment." "We have no money with us," replied Ekoko. "We have nothing of interest to any of you, for that matter, so I will tell you again- let us be on our way.""Oh, on the contrary, Love," he said venomously as he stepped toward her. "I can think of a great many things more interestin' to me than just few measly pieces o' copper." Again Ekoko could feel his hot breath against her face. It was foul, rotten to the core. She remained motionless, and taut, as though it was only a pin that was keeping her from breaking him to pieces. She heard his raspy gasps of breath as he took in the scent of her hair. Her fists were clenched so tightly it felt as though her knuckles might tear through her skin. All it took was one disgusting touch from his long bony fingers-before he knew it he was on his knees in the shallow water once more. Ekoko withdrew her arm back next to her body and remained unsettling still."Tha's it!" coughed the man. "Why does no one ever listen? I tried doin' things politely, I did! But it seems to me you two've left your manners up on the surface. Now-now we get to do things the fun way."The man rose again; water cascaded down his soaked leggings. He reached behind his back and pulled out a small shiv. It was dirty, no doubt caked with the only remains left of its previous victim. He stomped forward again, shooting sprays of water into the air with each step he took. He came within a mere foot from Ekoko, who seemed to tower over him now like a great stone statue; she was ready. Then came a snap.He snapped his fingers again and his lips stretched back into that same grisly smile as before and he turned to his mates and laughed."No need to worry chaps," he chuckled, turning back to Ekoko. "This one's blind as a ba-" He was interrupted by a swift chop to his throat. The snap of a bowstring echoed through the room and the whistle of an arrow screeched through the air. Rhylea's heart sank to the pits of his stomach. With one last breath he closed his eyes and let out a sigh.**************************

Caelen

12-06-2007, 11:58 PM

Nothing.He opened his right eye and the sharp point of an arrow came into focus. He opened his other eye and was met with Ekoko's back. His eyes moved down the length of her arm and saw her grasping tightly to the arrow. He looked to the railing above her and saw on the other side of the room the archer hastily drawing another arrow.The world was moving at a snail's pace.Ekoko turned to him and looked as though she was yelling something. Run! He felt a spray of water as she kicked up her feet and landed them squarely into the chest of one of the men who had previously been guarding the door behind them.The cool bite of the water seemed to snap time into place, and not a moment too soon. Rhylea caught the gleam of a dagger swooping around to the front of his throat and with a large heave he threw his head back, bashing the assassin in his nose. Rhylea turned and swung a sharp elbow into the man's face, shattering his cheek then brought a powerful knee around to meet the man's face once more. The pain that shot through his leg only infuriated Rhylea more, and with a growl he grabbed the man by his hair and lifted him to his feet. He raised his arm up and spread his clawed fingers; his hand was a guillotine, ready to drop. The man merely looked up in a daze, knowing there was nothing else he could do.Another whistle shrieked across the room."Rhylea!"Rhylea turned toward Ekoko, pulling the man around with him. A loud thud came from the man's back and a look of surprise burst over his face as the rest of his body went limp. Rhylea let the man loose and his stilled body slumped down into the water. The other two men charged down the room and Rhylea leapt to meet them. The archer growled as he stumbled across the ramp to get a better shot.Arrow in hand, Ekoko struck the thug across the chin. His fingers felt the spot she had just hit and he gave a grin then shot his fist out across her cheek. The coppery taste of blood began to fill her mouth and she spit red into the dark water at their feet. She was now able to tell that he was powerful, but he was slow. She changed her stance and quickly thrust the arrow up toward his head. He dodged the blow just in time, but quickly found himself staring at the ceiling as great pillars of water exploded up from under him as he fell. Ekoko's leg skimmed across the water and she regained her balance. Regaining his senses the brute rose once more. He swung his tree trunk arms at her and his fists splashed like cannonballs into the water below. One of the two men Rhylea had been fighting was already down. He didn't think he had killed him, but he was too busy at the present moment to check. He blocked several knees but was unable to parry the uppercut that had just caused to room to fill with stars. The man danced in place and swung his leg around, causing Rhylea to spin to the floor. The cool water numbed his face, and as he got to his knees he gave his head a shake. The man quickly dropped his heel but Rhylea caught it just in time. He thrust forward and threw the man off balance, giving him just enough time get in another blow. He was tired and his leg throbbed beyond pain into nothingness. He tripped over the man and fell on top of him into the water. He clutched his hands around his throat and put all his effort into keeping him from coming up. He looked up with exhausted eyes to see a large splash and Ekoko standing in its wake. A small feeling of victory feebly swept over Rhylea, interrupted by a sharp bite on his wrist. With a howl he released the man and was thrust from him. Rhylea was at a crawl as he tried to regain his footing. Slowly he stumbled his way back toward Ekoko. For a second he thought he saw something moving from under the water, and before his head was plunged down he let out a cry."Ekoko!'Ekoko turned around to meet the thin worm of a leader that charged toward her. His black eyes blazed and he let out a shriek. Ekoko calmly stepped into place. A loud snap rang out from where she was standing, and where once was an arrow there now were two makeshift batons in its place. He swung wildly at her. He was unskilled, untrained, and amateur at best. With each swipe she deflected his blade with the broken pieces of the arrow. Where they lacked in strength they more than made up for in speed, and they streaked like meteors as she brought them swiftly down onto her opponent. His head jerked left, then right, and up, then a line of red cut its way across his cheek as the barb of the arrow point caught the side of his face. He dropped to his knees with a cry as he clutched his face. His eyes glistened as beads of water soared into the air, and he watched as Ekoko's leg rocketed into the air and he heel came plummeting down into his jaw. Ekoko stood, poised and ready, but the man never rose from the water again. Finally the archer had the shot at Rhylea he had been waiting for. A sure hit; he hated to miss. He pulled his arrow back and the taut string arced around it. He watched as Rhylea struggled with the thug below, until finally neither of them made another move. He took in a deep breath and began to loosen his grip on the string."HALT!" bellowed a voice from across the room, startling the archer. The arrow met with a soggy plunk into the water next to Rhylea. Several armored guards marched into the circular room. The archer grumbled and slipped back into the shadows of the sewer.Ekoko ran to where Rhylea was laying and the guard shouted after her."I said halt! Don't make a move!"Ekoko did not heed his warning and ran toward where Rhylea was collapsed."Rhylea, you have to get up! Come on!" Ekoko heaved heavily as she tried to get Rhylea to his feet. "We're almost there, don't give up now!""Step away from that... that beast of a kerran! We have orders to bring him to the captain himself!"One of the guards inspected the large stump of a man that was slumped against the wall near the door they had just entered from."Hey Sarge, I think this one's still ali-ack!"The large hands of the brute wrapped themselves around the throat of the guard. He was in a fury, and the attempts at subduing him by the other guards failed to do anything but make him even angrier. He tossed them like rag dolls as he stampeded toward Ekoko. One of the guards dove at his feet and he came lumbering down into the water once more. The other two dove onto to him to try and help restrain him. Ekoko turned her attention to Rhylea once more. She caught stirrings of the other thug beginning to come to and tried to hurry. She put Rhylea's back to the stone wall and slid her shoulder under his arm, pushing up with all her might. Even hunched over he was still much larger than she was. Rhylea let out a sound that was groggy and inaudible; at least he was awake and moving. He looked up to see another one of the bandits join into the quarrel with the guards."Lucky for us..." Rhylea breathed with a smirk. "I guess I didn't kill that one... after all."They made their way toward the exit, inch by inch. By now the guards were too busy to notice them making their escape. With one last glance Rhylea gave a heavy handed wave goodbye, then turned his head into the dark tunnel and stumbled away.**************************

Caelen

12-18-2007, 05:25 AM

The night air was buzzing. All around them a chorus of insects and the chirping of strange birds rose to the starry skies above. The air was cleaner out here, but it was heavy, and wet. A soft breeze swept through the murky bog and cooled Rhylea's soaked fur. Ekoko was tucked warmly under his arm, helping him step through the thick mud."Just lean me against that tree there, Ekoko," grunted Rhylea. "I can take it from there."She stopped for a moment, as though she was unsure of where she should take him. She looked around for a moment then turned her head up toward Rhylea."You'll have to guide my step, Rhylea. I'm sure there are many trees in this swamp, but I can see none of them."Rhylea hesitated a moment, and drew a breath as though to say something, then continued to step forward. Slowly she eased him off of her shoulder and against a twisted old tree."So it's true then?" He groaned, as she gently moved him. His whole body was bruised and aching. "What that man said-you really are blind?""Yes, Rhylea, it is the truth," Ekoko replied. She suddenly felt exposed, and vulnerable, as though the entire swamp was watching. She reached up and touched her scars. "It happened a long time ago.""But how did you-and back there, with those thugs-I-"Ekoko smirked. "Just because I lost my eyesight doesn't mean I lost my usefulness with it too, you know?""I-yes," stammered Rhylea, embarrassed. "I didn't mean that."Ekoko smiled and patted him on the cheek, then found a stump to sit and rest on. Rhylea remained quiet as he rested against his tree."You tend to see the world more clearly when you can look beyond what's in front of your nose," Ekoko started. Then, with a slightly muffled voice she continued. "I've trained for years, sharpening my body as well as my mind, becoming a master of my senses."Rhylea opened his eyes. Ekoko's hand was at her mouth, and he watched as she slowly put it down onto her lap. She was holding something. He gazed on as she moved it back up to her mouth."What's that?" he asked curiously."What is what?" she replied."In your hand, what is that?""Oh, this? It's just a piece of bread. It's a little soggy though," there was a hint of disappointment in her voice as she held up the water-logged roll. "Do you want some?""Where did you get that?""What do you mean where did I get it? I've always had it.""But you dropped your pack back in-oh never mind," Rhylea grumbled as he took a piece of the mushy bread and swallowed it down. Soggy or not, It seemed as though ages had past since he had last had anything to eat."When you're finished, Rhylea, we'll go. We should get you out of here before the sun comes up to avoid any more run-ins with the guards. I think we've played cat and mouse with them for long enough, don't you?""Cat and mouse? Yes, I think you're right Ekoko." Rhylea smirked as he pushed himself off of the tree. They strode through the bog quietly. The sound of their wet footsteps was drowned out by the humming and bustling of the lively swamp. Rhylea looked up and saw the twinkling of fairies zipping back and forth through the dark sky as though they were shooting stars. "Pixie devils," he muttered to himself. "How easy indeed."Ekoko led them around a large pond. A cloud of tiny insects hovered above its surface as frogs below it croaked with glee. The night was alive, and finally, for the first time in his life, so was Rhylea. His heart raced excitedly with every step he took. Ekoko motioned for him to wait a moment as she peered around a large wooden wall. She turned her head from side to side, listening for anything suspicious. When it was safe, she motioned to him again to follow. She dashed forward toward the unguarded metal grate that lay ahead and Rhylea sprinted after her."Well Rhylea, we made it," she said smiling. "This drain leads to the outside, into Antonica. But do not draw too much attention to yourself out there, and stay off the roads-they will still be looking for you. There is a secret way into the hills that they are sure to miss. Follow the southern coastline through the gnoll territory and you will come to a waterfall. There is an entrance hidden behind it, and from there you can make it to a road that will lead you to the Village of Thundermist. From there, Rhylea, they can help you find your way to the Commonlands."Rhylea simply nodded. He couldn't believe this was it. This would be the last time he would ever see Qeynos again. Would it be the last time he would see Ekoko, too? His heart sank at the thought. She was his only friend in the entire world-a world that was about to become vastly larger."Ekoko, I-I don't know how to thank you, for everything. If it hadn't been for you-""I too am glad our paths crossed, Rhylea. I hope you find what you're looking for out there.""Will I ever see you again?""Who can be sure? Perhaps one day the time will come when you'll need my help again," she said with a smile.Rhylea smiled back and grunted with approval. As he ducked down to crouch into the opening Ekoko called out to him once more."And Rhylea?" she started as she stepped toward him. She stood on her toes and gave him a kiss on his forehead, and rubbing softly behind his ears she continued. "Good luck."Rhylea beamed as he slid down into the cold water below. He took in a gasp of breath and disappeared into the shimmering darkness. Ekoko stood silently under the sparkling night sky. It was quiet now, and the weight of loneliness began to settle inside her once more.Dark waves crashed against the rocks below the wall outside. Crickets chirped excitedly as a strange figure rose from the depths below. Water streamed from his body and rained down onto the earth below. A new creature was born unto the world-no longer a beast, but a dignified being filled with hope.He stepped up the shallow hill and turned to face the city for one last time. He closed his eyes and listened to its pleas for him to return. It groaned with longing as he turned his back to it, and as he marched forward into the dark night the city of Qeynos whispered his name. When there was nothing but shadows where he had once stood its empty promises were carried away with the wind.((The end! For now anyway. <img src="/eq2/images/smilies/69934afc394145350659cd7add244ca9.gif" border="0" width="15" height="15" /> I just wanna thank everyone that's been following the story, I really appreciate the support. I know it took foreeeeever, but I'm really happy with the way it turned out. And of course a big thanks to Ekoko, for making sure I got it done even when I was kicking and screaming. <img src="/eq2/images/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" width="15" height="15" /> Looking forward to what the next chapter brings, hopefully you will be too!))**Continue on to the next part of Rhylea's story in <a rel="nofollow" href="http://forums.station.sony.com/eq2/posts/list.m?topic_id=427014" target="_blank">A Lesson in Manners</a>!**