Uncommon Ballads sung by Brienae and Alyerra [Archive]

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:30 PM

"A true bard performs not for their own glory, but the glory of others," words I use as a motto for my troubador Brienae. In medieval times a bard had the power to make someone immortal. Not physically but if a bard told your story you would always be remembered. The bard's name might fade but thier stories would remind people of the great deed performed by Joe Smith for many generations thus making Joe Smith immortal in a way.It is with this spirit that I have decided to tell the stories or "Ballads" of my eight primary characters: Tetriemmy Windfoot, Kyriu Flamefist, Mordedana Shadowlight, Tsimia Plaguewren, Alyerra, Ziqua Reborne, Tari Clearshadow and Lady Brienae De'Esalcoda. I'm hoping to have all of them done with in a year but we shall see what happens. As for a bard telling her own story Brienae will be narrating/singing most of the ballads but as she refuses to tell her own story Alyerra my dirge will be narrating/singing her story as well Tari's because Brienae would never dare to have anything to do with her vile distant cousin. The Ballads:Nature's Rat: Tetriemmy Windfoot sung by BrienaeChild of Balance: Kyriu Flamefist sung by BrienaeLight Out of Shadow: Mordedana Shadowlight Sung by BrienaeSong of Blood: Alyerra Sung by BrienaeI hope you enjoySincerly,Lise Manta

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:42 PM

A Fae stands in a corner. Her orange and purple wings seem to glow in the light. Her orange hair is frosted with purple her blue and white armor also glistens. She strums a tiny lyre made for her small Fae hands. With a curtsey she introduces herself "I am Lady Brienae De`Esalcoda, but you may call me Brienae." she sighs "Other than that there is not much else to say about myself." she strums her lyre letting the music drift "I will tell some ballads that I have collected, ballads of lives not so common," she closes her eyes and begins to sing her soprano voice filling the room as she begins her ballads:Nature's Rat News of the accident on the Freeport Docks faded once everyone was healed everyone except a pregnant Ratonga. The day Gorgonzola Desmens gave birth to her three children the whispers started again about what had happened... what had happened to cause a Ratonga to be born black as the first born Crumpet was and what would cause a baby Ratonga to be born coughing? The second child seemed unaffected. The clerics reasoned that his siblings had shielded him from the necromantic forces. They reasoned that the first two children Crumpet and Ratiel would survive, but they feared the third child the girl named Tetriemmy would die in a few days. Days turned into a week and the the young infant was still coughing but living. Friends told the family that they should drown the girl but Gorgonzola refused. A week turned into a month. Gorgonzola reasoned the girl was a fighter and therefore again refused to drown her despite the ever present cough. Four years later Tetriemmy still lived but the cough never went away. She had never been outside because her mother was afraid, of what the young Ratonga wasn't sure. Through the window she could see into the alley. She could see her brothers playing with the other children. She started coughing yet again. There seemed to be only moments when the young Ratonga wasn't coughing. She was used to it but she hated it. She sighed as she got out of bed to get herself water. She noticed that it was getting dark outside. In the living room she passed Gorgonzola who was at her loom working on a new robe for someone. Crumpet and Ratiel came back in as she was leaving the kitchen glass of water in hand. She sipped the water in between coughs. Crumpet laughed as he held up a dead cat to his mother “Looks whats I founds,” he said “Takes it backs outsides,” Gorgonzola ordered “Buts I cans makes its a pets if I cans just learns hows,” the young black Ratonga pouted “Nos, it smells,” “Dos as yours mothers says,” said their father. Crumpet sighed and took the dead cat outside. He returned moments later empty handed. Tetriemmy started coughing more and was forced to her knees. She spilled the water as she collapsed. Gorgonzola dropped what she was working on rushed to her daughter. “Ratiel go gets more water.” The young dark brown Ratonga said nothing but ran into the kitchen returning with another glass of water and handed it to his mother. Gorgonzola helped her cream colored daughter to sip the water. Crumpet knelt down next to her “You knows Tet if yous dies I'm sures I coulds brings yous backs yous coulds bes mys firsts undeads servants,” “Shuts ups Crumpet,” Tetriemmy coughed. Dinner was silent. Tetriemmy had never minded it much. It gave her time to think and daydream. She wanted to leave the house but she was never allowed to. It was as they were finishing dinner that their father spoke “I wants to takes my familys on a picnics tos the Commonlands,”

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:44 PM

Gorgonzola gasped “But whats abouts Tet?” Their father frowned “I guess we'll haves to finds someones to watch hers,” Tetriemmy looked up “Buts I wants to gos.” Gorgonzola bit her lip “I don't knows if thats a goods ideas.” “Please lets mes gos toos,” the young Ratonga pleaded. “Fines saves us some times,” the father answered. “Oh thanks yous Daddys thanks yous,” The Ratonga glared at his daughter. She was cream colored like him but he seemed to have always resented her for continuing to live. The next morning the family packed what they would need for the picnic. Tetriemmy was more excited than she had ever been in her short life. As soon as she stepped out the door her coughing seemed to calm, but once they reached the fresh air of the Commonlands her coughing ceased completely. From a distance a lone figure watched the Ratonga family enjoying their food. She was a Wood-elf. Balira looked at the sky and sighed. Her nickname was Wind-Reader. All Druids could read subtle things in the wind as the wind was how Nature herself spoke as well as talking to trees and animals, but Balira since she was very young had been able to read the wind better than anyone even druids who had been studying the speech of Nature for centuries. To her it came naturally. She was known to have conversations with the wind. She had become famous for her ability to a point where she most often hid her face so that she could have quiet without the constant nagging of someone wanting to know the future or simply wanting to know what was the wind saying at that moment. At that particular moment it was telling her about the family below her. “That boy doesn't know he's only drawn to Necromancy because he's so infused with the energy.” she blinked “You can not be serious... you want me to train her as a Fury?” she shook her head “No find someone else. There is no way in Norrath I will take a child under my wing. Maybe when she's older, but I don't deal well with children.” she watched as the family threw the paper wraps from their sandwiches on the ground. She stood up and walked over to them. “Excuse me,” she said The family looked up. “Whats dos yous wants?” asked the father. “I suggest you pick that up,” Balira answered indicating the trash. Tetriemmy and Gorgonzola started to each reach for a piece of trash when the head of the family stopped them “It's nots hurtings anyones,” he said. Balira looked at the sky and nodded “You will be punished for your disrespect of Nature,” she turned and vanished in swirl of leaves. Once invisible she continued to watch the family. She continued to read the winds and was relieved that she had gone some distance from the family as she gasped “Why her? I thought you had chosen her,” she closed her eyes “I see it is the only way she can be trained. I still don't think I'm the right one to train her though,” Crumpet stood up “Comes on Ratiel let's gos plays,” Ratiel stood up to run with his brother. “Waits fors mes,” Tetriemmy said as she stood. Gorgonzola frowned. “Please, I've nevers felts betters,” she said to her mother her eyes pleading. Gorgonzola nodded “Crumpet, Ratiel keeps an eyes on yours sisters,” Both boys sighed as they stopped to wait for their cream colored sister. “Don't gos too fars,” Gorgonzola shouted after them. The Ratonga children played a game of tag. Tetriemmy was able to keep up with her brothers like she had never been able to do before. There was a rumble of thunder. Crumpet and Ratiel dashed back towards their parents. Tetriemmy stopped as her cough which had not been there all day erupted with a vengeance. Ratiel stopped “Tet hurries ups!” Crumpet snarled and grabbed his brother “She'lls catch ups!”

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:46 PM

Tetriemmy watched as the sky began to pour and her brothers vanished in the torrent. She forced herself to stand and walk in the direction she hoped was right. She watched as a funnel of wind formed and touched the ground right in front of her. She turned to run the other way. A part of the young Ratonga knew that it was hopeless to out run the swirling wind but there was that spirit that had kept her alive as well “You's nots goings tos dies” she stopped as her cough erupted again causing her to collapse. She turned her head just as the whirlwind reached her. She screamed as a large rock came towards her. There was no time to move even though the rock appeared to be moving in slow motion. The young Ratonga fell to the ground bleeding profusely from her right eye. The boys found their parents and ran to them for protection. Gorgonzola looked around frantically “Where's Tet?” she asked. The storm ended and an intense argument began. The father wanted to take his sons home and leave the girl. Balira shook her head as she listened to the male Ratonga talk. She had respect for the mother as she argued against leaving her daughter. Finally the male Ratonga turned and headed back to Freeport with his two sons. Gorgonzola stayed to search for her daughter. “Tetriemmy!” she called the girl's name several times. Balira showed herself to the Ratonga woman. “Come with me, I'll help you find her.” she already knew where the girl was as the wind kept informing her. “There isn't much time,” she told the Ratonga woman. She led the way to where the the young Ratonga lay. Gorgonzola gasped when she saw all the blood on the ground which appeared to be coming from her daughter's head. Balira knelt down by the tiny girl's side “She's alive but barely,” she carefully turned the young girl over. Her right eye was a mass of blood. Gorgonzola cried “Oh my poor little Tet...” “I can stop the bleeding but her eye... she'll never see out of it again,” Balira said as she started to weave her hands over the girl. Gorgonzola bit her lip “Would she lives ifs I tooks hers tos the clerics in Freeport?” Balira shook her head “Not bleeding as she is now, but after I'm finished yes, but they won't be able to heal her eye.” Gorgonzola watched as a spray of Autumn leaves erupted around her daughter. “You'res a druids?” “Yes,” Balira answered “And Nature has chosen Tetriemmy to become a Fury as well,” Gorgonzola closed her eyes “That is an honors I'm sures, but there's really nothings yous cans dos abouts thats?” she asked pointing at her daughter's face. Balira nodded “There is nothing anyone can do.” Gorgonzola nodded and bent down to kiss her daughter on the forehead “I loves yous Tet but your fathers woulds nots understands,” she stood up and ran back towards Freeport forever leaving her only daughter in the hands of a stranger.

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:47 PM

Balira watched the Ratonga run and sighed as the bleeding stopped. She picked the girl up and carried her to her camp. “Now what?” she asked out loud. She sighed “I'm a Feir'Dal and she's a Ratonga. I can teach her how to represent you but how can you expect me to raise a child?” she bandaged the girl's head while she continued her conversation with the wind “I mean she'll need a father and don't even think about trying to play match maker although I suppose you would be the best at it... yeah you laugh... my brother? Sephen is as reckless as they come. He's a Ranger... well yes he could teach her how to hunt nicely... Aunt Corielle she loves children... that's it I'll let Aunt Corielle raise her.... why are you so insistent I have to raise this cub?” she finished her bandage job and covered the Ratonga child with a blanket. Balira sighed as she put the ingredients she had gathered and hunted into a pot and to make a stew. Tetriemmy woke up. She could smell something cooking as she opened her eye. Everything was flat. She raised a paw to the right side of her face and felt the bandage over her right eye. She growled as she tried to find how to undo the covering. A hand stopped her. She screamed having not seen the Wood-elf. “Cub leave it,” she ordered “The injury needs to be covered so it can heal.” “But I can'ts see,” the young Ratonga protested. “Nothings looks rights.” Balira sighed “I'm afraid you'll have to get used to your vision being like this.” Tetriemmy glared at the Wood-Elf “Whys?” Balira sighed “Nature decided to show your family a sign... hopefully they will never forget the lesson. You will learn to live with it. Eventually Nature will improve your hearing.” “But I wants tos sees,” “I'm sorry,” Balira said as she dished a bowl of stew for the girl. Tetriemmy sniffed the stew. “Do yous haves anys cheese?” “No,” Balira answered “I live on what I find in Nature,” Tetriemmy picked up the spoon the Wood-elf had given her and tried a little bit of the stew. She frowned “There's nos spices,” Balira sighed “I don't have any spices.” she glared at the Ratonga as she put the bowl down and turned away. “You need to eat. With my powers I was able to stop the bleeding, but you are still fighting infection. You need the strength.” “I don'ts likes its it's too plains,” “You will eat if I have to hold you down and force it down your throat!” Balira shouted. Tetriemmy glared back. “So be it,” Balira hissed she summoned vines from the ground which wrapped around the Ratonga girl. “Let's gos of mes. My Dads wills hears of this,” Balira released the child “No he will not. He left you here to die Cub,” “But Mom woulds never lets hims do thats,” “Your mother left you with me because she does love you. You would have died if she had tried to take you back to Freeport. She also said your father wouldn't understand.” she watched as the young Ratonga's lip began to tremble “No please don't cry...” she began to plead before the young Ratonga burst into tears. Balira not sure what else to do picked up the child and held her as she wailed. She looked at the sky “Really? I'm at a loss here. She's far too young to understand and I don't have the patience... I'll learn... I'm almost nine hundred years old, I don't have the patience to chase around a girl this young or this small... I mean seriously.” Thunder rumbled in the sky. “Fine you win. I still don't agree but you win.”

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:55 PM

“Who are yous talkings to” Tetriemmy sniffed. Balira looked down “Nature. She speaks to me through the wind. She speaks to all Druids through the wind. Some just translate her words better than others,” Tetriemmy twitched her ears “I don'ts hears anythings,” “The wind doesn't speak in a way that you can hear. You have to watch,” At that moment the wind swirled around the Ratonga girl. “The wind right now is telling me that you are be trained as Fury.” she bit her lip as the wind spoke more about her "daughter". She shook her head “No I draw the line there,” “Draw the lines wheres?” Balira looked again at the young Ratonga “Nothing. Don't worry about it. Now are you going to eat or do I have to force it down your throat?” Tetriemmy scowled but picked up the spoon and bowl and finished the stew. After she ate she yawned and curled up in a ball falling asleep. Balira waited for the girl to be settled before she ate some stew herself and then fell asleep. Tetriemmy slept more soundly than she ever had in her life. In the morning she was awakened by the sunlight. She blinked her one eye. Again she felt the bandage that was over her right eye. Gradually it came to her what had happened. She twitched her nose as she thought she smelled fruit. “Are you going to eat breakfast?” Balira asked handing the girl a handful of berries. The Ratonga grinned and devoured the berries in one messy juicy bite. After Breakfast Balira packed up everything she had with her and began walking towards the docks. She had to stop often to wait for the Ratonga child. Once on the ship bound for The Thundering Steppes Tetriemmy ran to the other side of the ship. The wind blew strongly jingling the earrings she wore. “Tis a good wind,” One of the sailors said. Balira laughed “You have no idea. Tetriemmy be careful,” The Ratonga child sighed and placed her feet back on the deck as she had been trying to peer over the side. There were not many children on board besides Tetriemmy. One of the sailors had a talking parrot. It did not take the bird long to learn the child's name or at least part of it. “Watch Tetri,” he took to saying as the tiny Ratonga sometimes got underfoot of the sailors despite Balira's best efforts. It was a stormy night. Tetriemmy lay in bed trying to sleep but it it was difficult. She knew that Balira was asleep below her although the constant rustling below told her the Wood-Elf was restless. Tetriemmy sat up as the door burst open “Any druids on board!” Balira got out of her bed “I'm a Fury what's wrong? Other than the storm,” “It's getting worse.” one of the sailors said “Captain's afraid we're gonna capsize,” “Fine,” Balira growled. She looked up at Tetriemmy. “Go back to sleep,” she ordered. Tetriemmy waited until the Wood-Elf's back was turned before she quietly climbed down. “She said go back to sleep,” her mind laughed “Can't do that if I wasn't asleep,” She arrived on deck and hid behind a barrel.

Brienae

07-06-2011, 11:58 PM

“Who be this?” The Captain asked. Balira sighed “My name is Balira Windfoot,” The Captain smiled “The Wind Reader,” Balira sighed and nodded. “Alright Wind-Reader why the sea be mad at us?” “The sea is not mad at you it's just a severe storm. You should know Captain these things happen,” “Aye, but in all me years I've never seen a storm like this,” Balira shook her head. She looked at the sky “Grab onto something,” The sailors scrambled to do as the druid said some grabbing the mast some onto the ropes. The captain held the helm tighter. As the wind and waves pushed the ship to lean on its side there was an unmistakable cry “Watch Tetri! Watch Tetri!” “Tetri?” Balira cursed. Tetriemmy screamed as she slid behind the rolling barrel towards the water. She scrambled to grab onto the wooden floor of the deck with her tiny claws but it wasn't working. She closed her eye as she felt something wrap around her. She opened her eye to see a vine wrapped around her torso. The ship righted itself. “What part of go back to sleep did you miss Cub?” Balira shouted as she picked Ratonga child up and held her on her hip. “The backs parts. I wasn't asleeps befores,” Balira wanted to laugh at that but she reminded herself she had to be stern with the child. “You knew what I meant,” The Ratonga child grinned. The storm calmed. Balira sighed “The answer is still no,” she muttered. She looked down. The young Ratonga had nestled into her shoulder and fallen asleep. She sighed and took the child back to bed.

Brienae

07-07-2011, 12:01 AM

They boarded a ship from Thundering steppes to Antonica. There were more children running around. Among the passengers was another Wood-Elf who wore only cloth and carried a large stick which she called Bo Staff. In the mornings the children Tetriemmy included enjoyed watching her twirl her staff. “Who is shes?” Tetriemmy asked Balira one day as Balira watched the young woman practice as well. “Her name is Mesena Windstaff. She is a Monk. She's not a Grandmaster yet but she is very strong and courageous. There is no doubt that someday she will be.” Mesena sat with Tetriemmy and Balira one day during dinner. She studied Tetriemmy closely “What happened to your eye child?” Tetriemmy sighed “There was a bigs storms and lasts things I remembers is a bigs rocks,” Mesena nodded. “You are a strong child to keep your spirits up despite everything,” Tetriemmy looked at the brown haired Wood-Elf. “Everything is balance,” Mesena said “Nothing just happens. Perhaps the deities in their ultimate wisdom foresaw that you would be very powerful someday and so they had to limit your power. Who knows but I can tell you are one to watch.” The ship docked in Antonica. Many got off to stretch and explore. A few would be taking the ship to Qeynos Harbor.

Brienae

07-07-2011, 12:02 AM

Tetriemmy was trying to play with the other children. Her wound had healed and the bandage had been removed but her right eye was white with scars. She quit playing after many failed attempts at playing hide and seek. She began to head back to Balira's side. She stopped overhearing Balira talking to Mesena. Mesena asked her “How did you come to raise a Ratonga? There's nothing wrong with it I think the child will grow and learn much better in Qeynos than in that dirty city Freeport,” “I'm not raising her,” Balira sighed “Her mother ran off and left her with me. I have no intention of raising a child. I will train her in the ways of a Fury but I will not be her mother. The Ratonga child blinked. She turned and just ran. Mesena shook her head “You should be mindful of your surroundings. I would think a Fury would know that.” “What are you talking about. I'm aware of everything around me,” Balira snapped. “Are you?” Mesena questioned “Where is the child,” Balira laughed and shook her head “Playing with the other children where else?” “Look again,” Mesena said her voice as though issuing a challenge. Balira turned and watched the children. She gasped not one of them was the tiny Ratonga child. “We have to find her.” she said to the younger Wood-Elf. Mesena shook her head “I sense this is something you must do, but what does the wind say Wind Reader?” Balira looked at the sky and growled. She turned and ran out into Antonica Tetriemmy ran. Tears began to form in her left eye. She just ran straight not knowing or caring where she was going. She came to a hill and heard laughing. She turned and screamed as a group of skeletons surrounded her. “L-leaves mes alones!” she managed to shout. The skeletons laughed. Tetriemmy picked up a rock and threw it. She whimpered the rock appeared to hit but she realized it hadn't. Her lack of depth perception hindering her aim. “P-please leaves mes alones?” This provoked more laughter. Tetriemmy started coughing and collapsed to the ground. “Please... I don'ts ...wants... to... dies,” she said between coughs. She closed her eye and then she heard thunder. She opened her eye to see bones scattered on the ground and underneath her was a large fire. Balira dashed to the young Ratonga and pulled her close “What were you thinking?” she asked pulling the child away to look at her. “Thats yous didn'ts wants mes. Theys thoughts I didn'ts knows but I heards the talks. Dads wanteds to drowns mes and Crumpet wanteds mes to bes his undeads servants. Mom lefts mes ands yous don'ts wants me either... no one wants me...” The wind swirled around the Ratonga and the Wood Elf. Balira sighed “You win,” They walked through the North Qeynos gate and on to the courthouse where Balira requested adoption papers. On that day Tetriemmy Desmens became Tetriemmy Windfoot. Many years later Tetriemmy was a powerful Fury in her own right. Some say she surpassed her mother Balira. While she could never read the Winds as Balira had her reputation spread. Necromancers fear her name. Like her mother she never married but has taken it upon herself to look after others. She calls us her Cubs and somehow whenever any of her cubs is in trouble she is always there.

Brienae

07-07-2011, 12:02 AM

((I would not be playing this game if it were not for my boyfriend who is now my husband. I became interested in playing when I watched him play Everquest 2. His main character was his Monk Silzin. To this day my favorite class to watch is by far the monk. It was after watching him play that I created Tetriemmy. Years later we were actually able to play together and after much debate with myself I created Kyriu. My husband started teaching how to play the monk and in the process often he would literally mentor Kyriu. So in this way Silzin became Kyriu's mentor. When I started writing “Child of Balance,” I tried to create a new mentor for her but I just could not seem to create one that could work, so I asked my husband if I could borrow Silzin. He agreed. So with his input I began writing and once I finished and he read the story he confirmed that indeed I had captured the essence of Silzin well,)) Brienae pauses in her playing to grab a drink of water before she starts to sing again. Her soprano voice filling the room with the second ballad Child of Balance Mesena Windstaff twirled her staff in a practiced rhythm by her camp fire. A human approached her. His red hair was unbound flowing to his shoulders. His green eyes watched the Feir'dal dance as he approached. He tried to sneak closer without her noticing but the end of her staff caught him in the gut knocking out his breath.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 08:38 PM

Mesena sheathed her staff and bowed “Forgive me sir, but I sensed your approach, but could not see who you were, Mesena Windstaff,” The human returned the bow “I understand. Jacob Flamefist.” As they straightened he grinned at her “Would you mind sharing your camp?” Mesena smiled “I suppose not,” Jacob slept on the other side of the fire from Mesena. They both awoke as an army of undead approached their campsite. They stood back to back. Mesena's staff moving in time with Jacob's fists. After the undead fell Mesena turned to look at her partner. Her yellow eyes met his green. “I hope we can meet again,” she whispered. “So do I,” Jacob answered. From that day it is said that Mesena and Jacob could not be parted. A year after they married they had a single daughter: Kyriu. Mesena said that in ancient 'Dal it meant Perfect Balance, because as she said “She is the perfect balance Elf and Human, Staff and Fist,” Once Kyriu was born the family traveled together all the time. Kyriu started training at the age of two. Ten years after they started training their daughter tragedy struck in the Commonlands.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 08:46 PM

The drum beats formed a rhythm in Kyriu's mind. Her eyes were closed but the twelve year old Half-Elf kicked and twirled her staff. She stopped as the Drum beats stopped. She opened her eyes and turned to her friend who had been playing the drum “Aly what's wrong?” she turned to see a group of horses coming towards them. The pale purple half-elf stood up “Look behind them in the carts... coffins,” Kyriu looked. Sure enough there were four coffins inside four carts.Alyerra shuddered. Kyriu approached the men as they stopped and one of them blew a horn. “Stay back lass,” one of the men said “This be no sight for a young lady such as yourself,” Kyriu bowed “With all due respect sir I am Kyriu Flamefist daughter of Mesena Windstaff Flamefist and Jacob Flamefist. I am not as squeamish as some people,” she glanced at her pale faced friend. The man placed a hand on her shoulder “I'm very sorry Lass,”Kyriu looked up at him wondering why he was sorry. Somehow she sensed that it had nothing to do with her seeing the bodies.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 08:50 PM

A crowd formed around the men. The man who had apologized to Kyriu held up his hand “We believe we know who these bodies are, but we need someone to verify our suspicions.” he looked at the young girl “We need a next of kin that is not a child to identify Mesena and Jacob Flamefist.” Kyriu gasped as she watched her uncle Zachary approach the men and introduce himself. “It's not them,” she said to Alyerra “It can't be them. They're both Grandmasters,” she watched her uncle nod at one coffin and then the other. “No...” Kyriu shook her head “No... it can't be,” Zachary walked over to his niece and sighed “Kyriu there's something I need to tell you.” Kyriu shook her head “It's not true!” she screamed “Dad and Momma can't be... they can't be!” “Does anyone know where we can find the next of Kin for Balira and Sephen Windfoot?” Kyriu watched as a small cream colored Ratonga approached the coffins. She knew who the Ratonga was there were few who did not recognize Tetriemmy Windfoot. Kyriu had known the Fury her entire life. Tetriemmy had been there the day Kyriu was born. She watched the Ratonga nod to both of the other coffins and then leave. She turned back to her uncle “Tell me it's not true!” “I will not lie to you.” Zachary said to her “A lie would not serve balance. Kyriu the truth is they are dead,” Kyriu shook her head as though it would make it untrue. She looked after the small figure disappearing into the forest. An idea struck her “I'll be right back and so will Dad and Momma,” she ran to catch up to the Ratonga. Zach looked at her friend “Alyerra please go with her,” Alyerra nodded and dashed after Kyriu easily catching up to her. “Ms Tetri!” Kyriu shouted.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 08:52 PM

The Ratonga turned and waited for the two girls to catch up to her. “What is it Cub?” she asked. There was a streak of slightly damp fur where tears had leaked from the old Ratonga's left eye. Her right eye was covered with an eye-patch. “I was thinking you could bring them back!” Kyriu exclaimed. Tetriemmy shook her head “No Cub they are dead,” “But with your power...” “Cub I can not do as you ask. As much as I want to. They are gone Cub.” “I know but Nature's power can bring them back can't it?” Tetriemmy closed her eye for a moment“Sometimes, but it is too late. Had I been there minutes after they died then perhaps yes. But they have been dead for days Cub and Nature will not let me bring them back.” she looked at the young girl “Mesena was a dear friend of mine,” she closed her eye again “And of course my Mother and Uncle are gone as well,” Kyriu glared at her “So you're telling me that they died Naturally? Momma was just over two-hundred years old which is young for a wood-elf and Dad was only in his thirties. People like that don't just die naturally and they were both healthy,” “I did not say it was Natural Cub. Mother was over Nine hundred, but Uncle Sephen was only just barely one hundred he was a half-elf like you,” she sighed “Their death was not Natural, but too much time has elapsed and there is nothing I can do.” Alyerra touched her friend's shoulder as the Ratonga turned to leave “Ky you know I'm here for you if you want to just talk.” Kyriu shrugged the purple hand off “You wouldn't understand. You've never had a father and your mother is alive,” Alyerra bit her lip “Sometimes especially when I traveled with y'all he treated me like I was his daughter... your Dad was the closest thing I had...”Kyriu looked at her friend and without any words she collapsed on her friend's shoulder and cried.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 09:08 PM

The funeral was a few days later. Kyriu watched as the bodies of her parents were burned. In her hand she held her mother's staff. Mesena had left it to her until she could craft her own.The next day a council of Grandmasters met. “It grieves us to have to mourn for the loss of two of our number.” One of the Grandmasters spoke “But because they are both gone the training of their daughter must be taken over by another Grandmaster.”“I will train the little one,” said a wood-elf. His hair was gray with red strands sprinkled throughout. Over his eyes was tattooed what looked like a brown bandit's mask to some.“Grandmaster Silzin,” the first Grandmaster said bowing to the wood-elf “I did not hear you come in.” he looked at the shorter man “If no one objects then Kyriu Flamefist will become the Protege' of Grandmaster Silzin Lightfoot,”There were no objections. Kyriu said nothing when she heard the news. She practiced with her mother's staff by the Emerald Lake. She could hear the whispers. Word had spread fast that the great Silzin Lightfoot had taken a Protege', for the first time ever. She could feel the eyes of people watching her. To be trained by someone so great was an honor. It should have been an honor. Kyriu did not feel it was so honoring as the only reason why she needed a new mentor was because both of her mentors were dead.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 09:11 PM

The next day she left with Silzin. The sun had just risen as they walked the path to Butcherblock Mountains. Silzin never paused in his steps. He somehow knew the girl was with him. Kyriu sighed she had been here before with her parents and nothing had changed. She looked around her but there seemed to be nothing around. The mountains were quiet. Normally her parents would have also chosen a safe path but they were always alert. She noticed that Silzin kept his eyes forward. “He's not paying attention to anything,” A bear ran towards them. Before Kyriu could swing her staff around to make one attack the bear was on the ground. Her mouth dropped. “Were you paying attention Little One?” Silzin asked. “Uh- of course Sensei... I...I...” she hadn't even seen the Feir'dal move,” Silzin smiled and continued walking. Kyriu stood for a few moments still shocked. Silzin turned “Are you coming Little One?” Kyriu nodded. She kept her staff in her hand just in case they were attacked again. They camped on a cliff overlooking the docks. Silzin roasted some meat over the fire and gave half of it to the girl. She ate without a word. After she finished she meditated as had been her ritual every evening. She remembered sitting meditating with her parents. Normally the idea was to clear her mind. She could not seem to focus. Her thoughts drifting back to her parents. She had always been with them everywhere they went. Her mind focused on that day about a week before: The family of three returned to Kelethin. They stopped first at The Tainted Eagle where they received a complete free meal. They were joined by Senriala a Dark-Elf who owned the tavern and her Half-Elf daughter Alyerra. During the meal Kyriu started telling her friend about everything her parents had done while they had been gone. Alyerra listened intently as her friend talked. Once in awhile Jacob or Mesena would interrupt their daughter to correct an exaggerated detail. “Can I go with them next time Mom?” Alyerra asked. Senriala sighed and nodded “For one week, if it's alright with them,” “Of course,” Mesena answered. She reached into a bag and pulled out a guitar. Kyriu smiled she had watched her mother carve this guitar for her friend over several weeks. Someday she hoped that she would be able to craft as well as her mother. She watched as Alyerra's face lit up when the Feir'dal handed her the instrument. After they finished the meal they headed to their Silverleaf Inn “room”. The next morning Kyriu woke up. She headed down the ramp. She could hear her parents talking: “What about Kyriu.” her mother started “From the sounds of this she can't come with us.” “My brothers would have no problem if she stayed with them.” Jacob answered. Kyriu finished coming downstairs “Why can't I go with you?” The human and Feir'dal turned. Mesena sighed “Your father and I have been asked to go on a special mission. It is very secret.” “I promise I won't tell anyone. I'll be very quiet.” Jacob walked over and touched his daughter's shoulder “It is going to be very dangerous.” “But Dad...” “Not this time. You are not ready, but I promise when we return we will take you and Alyerra with us.” Kyriu's mind returned to present. Tears were in her eyes “He promised...” she whispered. She looked over to the Feir'Dal who was meditating next to her.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 09:12 PM

“And he had every intention of keeping his promise. We are only mortal we can not control when we leave this world.” Silzin spoke his eyes were still closed. Kyriu looked at him. She knew he was right. “Get some sleep Little One we have a long journey ahead of us,” Kyriu sighed and fell asleep on the bare ground. The next morning Silzin woke her up. “Ready for breakfast Little one?” Kyriu growled. “I assume they taught you how to hunt.” Kyriu nodded. “Then breakfast is whatever we can catch,” He stood up and descended the cliff. Kyriu followed. She was determined this time to show her new mentor what she was capable of. She sighed as she climbed down. Silzin met her at the bottom. He nodded his head towards a bird. He then pulled out two shuriken and threw them. He ran over to the bird and picked it up. Kyriu saw another bird flying. She reached into her own pouch and pulled out a handful of shuriken. One hit and the bird darted towards her. She expected Silzin to leap in but he didn't move. She blocked the bird's beak from hitting her face with her staff. “Be one with your weapon,” she whispered as she swung her staff to hit the bird. The bird pecked at her face. Kyriu took a step back. “You must be one with your weapon and one with your surroundings.” she muttered under her breath as she brought the staff down on the bird pinning it to the ground. The bird ceased moving. She bent down to pick it up. Turning to look at Silzin she saw no reaction on his face. She sighed as she picked up what would be her breakfast.

Brienae

07-21-2011, 09:13 PM

Silzin made a fire for them to roast the birds over but said no further words. Inwardly the child fumed. “Had he turned his head the moment she had succeeded? Had he not seen what she did?” After the meal they boarded a ship bound for Thundering Steppes. Kyriu leaned over the side of the ship and watched the waves. She glanced to either side and sighed. Silzin was nowhere to be seen. “What does he expect me do?” she asked no one in particular. “Or did I do something wrong?” “No you did everything right Little One,” Kyriu jumped as the Feir'Dal spoke. “I had nothing to correct,” He turned and walked away. Kyriu clenched her fists “I am getting tired of him calling me that.” she looked out towards the ocean “Maybe he really doesn't want to train me, maybe he was stuck with me.” tears streamed from her eyes again. “What's wrongs?” Kyriu turned and looked down slightly. Next to her was a pure black Ratonga. She bit her lip “Sorry I just... I think I might be a burden on my new mentor that's all,” “New Mentors? What happeneds to your's old ones?” Kyriu swallowed “They died. I was being trained by my parents and they were killed.” “Oh you poors girls. Yous miss thems don't yous?” Kyriu nodded. “What ifs I tolds yous I coulds brings thems backs?” Kyriu shook her head “Tetri said it was impossible,” “Who is this Tetri?” “Tetriemmy Windfoot,” Kyriu answered “She's a powerful Fury, but she said not even her power could bring them back.” The Ratonga nodded “Let's mes tells yous a secrets abouts Windfoot. I thinks her reputations is exaggerated. She was once a weaks runts and I doubts thats changed. I cans brings them backs. I'm Crumpet Desmens bys the ways.” “Kyriu Flamefist,” Kyriu answered with a bow. Crumpet nodded “Nows whats dos we haves to works withs wheres are the bodies buried?” “They were cremated,” “Oh I sees” He pondered a moment “Thens we'll needs some bloods,” “Where are you going to get their blood?” “From you's you're their daughters their bloods is in yours veins,” It was dark when the ship arrived in Thundering Steppes, but only because of storm clouds. Kyriu arranged to meet Crumpet at sunset near the Ruins of Varsoon. Silzin stopped in the Dead River Basin and pointed to a skeleton ahead “Everything lives and everything dies Little One. Things which are dead should stay dead,” Kyriu sighed “Of course Sensei,”

Brienae

07-21-2011, 09:14 PM

That night she waited until the Wood-Elf was sound asleep before she took a griffon. She walked to the Ruins of Varsoon. She was grabbed by an armored skeleton. She squirmed and screamed. Her scream was cut off by a skeletal hand over her mouth. “Quits strugglings,” Crumpet shouted as he emerged from the shadows carrying a torch. “Thanks fors commings foolish girls. I lieds I won't bes bringings yours parents backs buts I dos requires yours bloods,” He pulled out a dagger and advanced towards the girl. He yelped as a bolt of lightning struck him. He turned to see the Cream colored Ratonga advancing towards him. “Tet,” he growled “Longs times nos sees,” The skeleton dropped Kyriu and turned to fight the Wood-Elf behind it. Kyriu pulled out her staff and struck the skeleton's back. It turned to her briefly but turned back to face the Grandmaster. Finally with a devastating fist from Silzin the skeleton fell to the ground in pieces. Silzin nodded towards where Tetriemmy was fighting the Necromancer and dashed to aid the Fury. Kyriu followed. Crumpet looked around and sighed “Looks likes it's times fors mes to gos.” he waved his hands and pillars appeared around him. A final lightning bolt hit him before he vanished. Silzin turned to Kyriu “Are you alright Little One?” “I'm fine!” Kyriu snapped. Tetriemmy walked over “Cub I heard him mention he told you he could bring them back,” she shook her head “He could have but not in way that is natural or acceptable,” Kyriu glared at the Fury “So what? They didn't die naturally!” Tetriemmy sighed “He would have brought them back as mindless zombies. Their spirits are gone Cub,” Kyriu fell to the ground in tears. “But they still live,” Silzin said. Kyriu turned her gaze to her mentor and scowled. Silzin continued “They live in you Little One.” “But how?” “You are their daughter, as long as you remember them and hold to what they taught you and continue to learn they will never die,” Kyriu blinked at him “Why did they choose you to train me?” she asked “I've heard of you. You're reputation should allow you to choose any student you want so why'd they stick you with me?” “They didn't stick me with you. I asked.” Silzin answered “I saw potential in you,” Kyriu stood up and hugged the Wood-Elf while she cried. Silzin looked at Tetriemmy a little taken aback. Kyriu wiped her eyes and looked up at Silzin. She stepped back and twirled her staff “Let's show these skeletons balance,” she hissed. Silzin grinned as a large group of Skeletons advanced towards them. Kyriu stood at his back following his movement in mirror with her staff as she had watched her mother do many times with her father A few years later Kyriu is not a Grandmaster but continues her training under Silzin who still calls her Little One. She now carries a staff crafted by her own hands She often will explore on her own so that she may learn more about the world. She still mourns for her parents but takes comfort knowing that they are watching. Some day who knows maybe the name Kyriu Flamefist will be just as famous as Silzin Lightfoot, maybe only time will tell.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:44 PM

Brienae closes her eyes before she continues playing. She pauses for a moment. Her purple eyes blink as she remembers the tale. She starts playing again and begins her song. Light Out of Shadow The Iksar packed quickly. She was sorry to leave so abruptly but she had to. Her life depended on it. She was hoping to be gone before her children returned. That hope was dashed when she heard a small voice. “Mommy where are we going?” The Iksar sighed as she looked at her young daughter “I am going somewhere.” “Can I come?” “When you are older Mordedana if you still want to follow me I will welcome you with open armsss.” She finished packing and with the dark wolf she vanished.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:45 PM

Many years later Mordedana retched over the side of the ship bound back to Neriak. She had always hated sailing and what she was doing now was the reason. She could hear her brother laughing. She couldn't help but wonder if her brother enjoyed the sailing more or watching her suffer. She thought back on that day when she had watched her mother pack. The next day they discovered she had betrayed. Their father had been outraged. Mordedana and her brother Mordenair were now considered motherless because their father denied marrying their mother, but yet they had his last name. “Captain Ariesez, we are back in Neriak,” one of the recruits said Mordedana opened her eyes. She had not realized she had closed them somehow. She gladly stepped off the ship. She was joined on shore shortly by her twin brother Mordenair. Their tails swished in time with each other as they walked back to the barracks. There was a scream from one of the alleys. Mordedana turned and ran towards the sound. She saw a small boy surrounded by a group of thugs. She drew her sword “Leave the boy alone,” she hissed The thugs turned and attacked her. She drew her shield and blocked their attacks while she sliced at them. The men stopped all of them bleeding from their wounds. “Like I said leave the boy alone,” The men looked up at her from the ground. “What are you waiting on?” Mordedana demanded. “Aren't you going to kill us?” one of the men asked. Mordedana looked at them a long moment before sheathing her sword and shield “Leave thisss place and never bother thisss child again,” The men nodded as they scrambled to their feet and ran. She turned to leave but was stopped by a small hand on her arm. She looked down and saw the boy. She jerked her arm out of his grasp and continued walking.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:45 PM

“You saved me,” he said. The pink Iksar turned “I would not have had to save you if you knew how to defend yourself,” she responded. “Could you teach me?” She looked at the human child. She was unsure what compelled her to speak “Yesss,” “Oh thank you thank you what is your name? I'm Franklin Carter, but my friends call me Frankie,” Mordedana sighed “Captain Mordedana Ariesez,” “Captain Ariesez?” Frankie whispered taking a step back “I've heard of you. They say you'll kill a man if he looks at you wrong,” “That'sss my brother,” Mordedana sighed “I'm not quite as volatile as he is.” Frankie nodded “Do you have a short version of your name?” “Dana,” She answered. The boy seemed to ponder that in his head for a moment before saying “I'm going to call you Mordy,” Mordedana quirked an eyebrow “Mordy?” The boy nodded and smiled. “I think I prefer Dana.” The boy grinned “But if everyone calls you Dana, Mordy can be my special name for you. I'll be the only one who calls you that.” Mordedana laughed. She started walking. Frankie trotted after her. She stopped and sighed “Tell you what meet me in The K'tex Tunnel tomorrow.” “Why there?” “Because I can teach you better in Darklight Woods then I can in the city.” Truth be told she did not want to use the city training grounds. “Meet me there in the morning, I have the day off tomorrow.” The boy nodded and disappeared into the city. Mordedana sighed. There was something different about that child. He was so... she couldn't come up with the word. He was honest but that was not it. She sighed she'd had a gift since she was young to tell if someone was being truthful. It came to her naturally. She walked home alone pondering the child. The word hit her like a boulder innocent the child was so innocent. She shook her head here in Neriak that was impossible. No one was innocent, but that child was.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:47 PM

When she arrived home her brother looked at here “Where did you go?” “I heard a disturbance.” she answered “And I went to see what wasss going on.” “What kind?” Mordenair pressed. Mordedana sighed “There wasss a boy being attacked by a large group,” Mordenair shook his head “You should have stayed out of it.” “The boy would have died,” “Then you should have let him. Dana if the boy can not defend himself then he isss weak and deservesss to die.” Mordedana looked at her brother. She could tell that he meant every word. His words burned her. He was wrong. The next day Mordedana met Frankie in the tunnel leading outside. Once they were in the woods she picked up two sticks and handed one to the boy. Frankie frowned at the large stick “Can't we use real swords?” “How old are you?” Mordedana asked. “Ten,” Mordedana nodded and withdrew her long sword “Thisss isss asss long asss you are tall and since you are just learning we'll be using sticksss,” she resheathed her sword Frankie sighed “Fine but someday you'll teach me how to use a real sword won't you Mordy?” Mordedana laughed. “Let'sss start with how to hold your weapon,” “What weapon?” Frankie protested “All I have is a stick.” Mordedana smiled “Anything can be a weapon if you so choose. Now pretend the stick is a sword and hold it like thisss.” she used her stick to demonstrate the proper hold. A few hours later Frankie sat at home eating dinner with his family. “I learned how to hold a stick... well Mordy told me to pretend it was sword.” “I don't think I like the idea of you training with a Shadowknight,” His mother said. “But Modry's not a Shadowknight.” Frankie started “Well she is but only outside. Inside I don't think she is,” “That's another thing how can you even tell that this Mordy is a girl? She's an Iksar.” His mother demanded “Her voice sounds feminine.” Frankie answered. “She's also smaller than her brother,” His mother shook her head “I still don't like it,” Frankie turned to his grandfather who was stroking his chin “Grandpa you understand don't you?” “Indeed I do. Your Mordy has the heart of a Paladin is what I suspect.” the old man stroked his chin again “I think I'd like to talk to her.”

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:48 PM

The next day Mordedana met with Frankie in the late afternoon because as she had said to him the day before that was when time would allow her too. She taught him how to block. “That'sss not bad,” she said as he blocked her for the third time in a row. “If we had something to ussse assss a shield I would show you how to ussse a shield but we don't.” she smiled “That'll be it for today,” “Thanks again Mordy,” he hugged the Iksar before dashing back into Neriak. “He's a sweet boy isn't he?” Came a voice behind her. Mordedana withdrew her sword. “I meant nothing by it.” the old man said as he approached the pink Iksar. “But I will say this. It is peculiar to see a Shadowknight taking the time to train such a scrawny boy,” “He would not learn otherwise. Thisss isss a cruel world.” she responded “Cruel world indeed.” The old man said “Still strange for a Shadowknight especially one of your reputation would take time to train a boy who can't defend himself,” “What concern isss it of your'sss?” Mordedana growled “What I choossse to do in my spare time isss up to me,” she turned and started walking away. “You're not a Shadowknight.” the old man whispered. Mordedana turned “How dare you? I am an Ariesez. My family hasss been Shadowknightsss for many generationsss,” “True. You say you are a Shadowknight and yet I've heard of other things you have done Mordedana. You have shown mercy to opponents. Rather than killing them you let them live. You have questioned orders. You rescued a small boy from what could have been certain death. You are a Paladin Mordedana.” Her heart pounded “What are you talking about? I have trained my entire life to be a Shadowknight. Of courssse I'm a Shadowknight,” “Not in your heart,” Mordedana stepped back from the old man before she turned and ran. The next day she and Mordenair were sent on a mission to locate a fugitive. He had betrayed but someone had seen him trying to convince his family to join him in his new home. Mordenair knocked on the first door. It was answered by a Tier'dal “Can I help you?” the woman sighed “Yesss. I hope you can,” Mordenair said showing her a drawing of the man they were searching for. “No I haven't see him,” Mordenair turned to his sister. “She speaksss true,” It was the fifth house they came to where things fell apart. “No I nevers saws hims befores,” the Ratonga man answered. He was lying. Mordedana thought about what would happen to the traitors family and then this man for lying. In the eyes of the law he was hiding information from the government regarding a traitor which made him a traitor. “He speaksss true,” As they continued the search there were others that she lied about. They started to leave the neighborhood finding no information when someone shouted something. Mordedana did not catch what it was but she turned in time to see her brother's claymore slice deeply into the man. She stood frozen for a moment as people came out to see what was going on only to fall to yellow Iksar's blade. She regained her composure and withdrew her shield and sword. She blocked her brother's sword from his next target: Frankie.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:49 PM

Frankie scrambled away as others deserted the streets. “What in Thule'sss name do you think you are doing?” Mordenair demanded. Mordedana sheathed her sword and replaced her shield. “Answer me Dana!” Mordedana remained silent her mind was trying to comprehend the words of her heart. “It'sss that boy you've been training.” Mordenair growled “He'sss made you soft.” “Mordenair let'sss go home and we can talk there.” Mordenair sheathed his own sword and they walked home. Once they arrived at their Uncle's Estate Mordenair whispered “Continue to train the boy and I'll kill him.” “But why? He'sss only a child!” “That isss why!” Mordenair shouted “Are you listening to yourself? He'sss only a child.” he said the last part in a mocking voice “Hisss sacrifice will greatly please Cazic Thule,” “Nair pleassse I'm begging you. Leave the boy alone,” “I will if you never speak to him again,” Mordedana closed her eyes “Done,” Later that Afternoon Frankie arrived in the tunnel and waited for his mentor to show up, but she never came. He returned home and sat down. “So what did you learn today?” his grandfather asked. “That Mordy is a liar,” Frankie answered “She never showed up,” The old man sighed “I'm sure she has her reasons.”

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:50 PM

In her room Mordedana sat. She had taken off her armor for the night and she sat with her head resting on her knees. Tears streamed silently from her eyes. She had locked her door because she did not want her brother to come in. She knew what he would say. He would say the same thing their father had when they were Hatchlings “You are an Ariesez, we have been Shadowknights for generations. A Shadowknight is strong and doesn't cry. An Ariesez most certainly never shows emotional weakness” her body shook with the silent sobs. She remembered all of the times she had been yelled at for showing emotion but when ever Mordenair was angry it had been okay. She remembered as a child finding an injured rat in the street. With the help of her mother she had nursed it back to health. She remembered a few days after their mother was announced to have betrayed Mordenair had killed the rat. Their father had complimented him on a job well done and yelled at Mordedana for her tears. She looked at herself in the small mirror by her bed and heard the old man's words “You are not a Shadowknight... you are a Paladin.” She quietly took out a dress and changed into it. She dreamed of finding more feminine armor. She'd always thought a plate skirt would be nice. She sighed the dress showed her stomach and thus much more scale than she was comfortable with, but it was much quieter than her armor. She grabbed her cloak on the way out and pulled the hood up.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:50 PM

Quietly Mordedana made her way to the neighborhood where she had saved Frankie. She wasn't sure what she was looking for. Once she arrived in the neighborhood she stopped and closed her eyes “What can he do to help me?” her mind asked “If someone tells Nair he'll die,” she turned to leave. “I don't have a choice...” she whispered to the empty air. “You always have a choice,” Mordedana turned to see the old man. “What brings you here Ariesez? Here to see Frankie? He missed you today,” “No... I... I can never see him again... my brother... Nair will him,” The old man nodded. “Then what brings you here?” She looked at the old man for a few moments as the thought came to her “You... but I'm not sure how I... I mean I don't know who you are, but I saw Frankie here...” The old man smiled. “My name is John Carter. Frankie is my Grandson.” Mordedana gaped at him. John smiled again and spoke “I grew up with a young woman. She was my best friend when were children. I became a Coercer and she became a Defiler. One day after she was married and had two children... a set of twins. She told me one day that she was leaving Neriak because she felt the calling to become a Mystic, but she worried about her children. Most of all she worried about her little girl. She once told me that there was something different about her little girl.” he laughed “I asked her what she was thinking and she told me... and I will never forget this... she said: A week ago Dana brought a dying rat to me and begged me to heal it. Her face lit up and together we continued to take care of the thing. It felt right...”

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:51 PM

“You knew my mother?” John nodded “Mazsra. She's still alive and she misses you. I meet her in secret sometimes. She enjoys being a Mystic, but she always asks about her children,” Mordedana swallowed “You were right...” John looked at her “...about me... when... when Mommy and I helped Pipsqueak it felt right... my brother killed him when she left. When I saved Frankie it felt right...training him it felt right,” “Then you know what the next step is...” Mordedana swallowed again and nodded. “There will not be much time. Someone long ago reported Mazsra and so she had to flee before she was ready. Do not worry about Frankie we will protect him. Meet me here tomorrow night and we will discuss this further.” First and foremost you should know that you will no longer be able to use your Shadowknight abilities. That power has abandoned you.” Mordedana nodded and sneaked home. The next morning Mordedana walked with her brother as usual. She sighed when they were told they were being sent to Freeport for their mission. She wretched over the side of the ship for most of the trip. When they arrived in Freeport there was a crowd gathered at the docks. “Take him to the square!” There was a Dark-Elf in the middle of the crowd “Please it's a mistake...” “Traitor! Traitor!” the crowd shouted over and over. Next to her Mordenair channeled energy into his sword. He approached the Teir'dal “Treason is punishable by death.” “But I didn't betray.” the Teir'dal whimpered “I just... I'm a Carpenter... and I just... I'm only a Carpenter. I make furniture. I go where ever the money is I didn't know my client lived in Qeynos. I didn't. Please I beg you don't kill me for running a business.” “So then you're a spy?” Mordenair added. “No,” the Dark-elf answered as Mordenair raised his glowing sword. The Teir'dal closed his eyes and waited for death. He heard a clang. He looked up and saw the claymore caught against a longsword.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:52 PM

Mordenair followed the blade preventing his own sword from it's killing blow. He raised his sword and placed it against his sister's neck. “What were you thinking?” he hissed “This is a spy a traitor, deserving of death.” Mordedana swallowed. One of the soldiers who had come with them whispered something in Mordenair's ear. Mordednair lowered his sword and whispered in his sister's ear “The private tellsss me you were heard last night dissscussssing treason. Tell me it'sss not true.” Mordedana felt her heart cease for a moment. “I'm going to die,” her mind whispered. She remained silent. “Answer me!” Mordenair shouted Mordedana tried to speak but her mind could form no words. There was nothing she could say that would spare her. Nothing he would understand. She closed her eyes. “Mordedana you stand accused of treason! How do you plead?” A peace flowed over the pink Iksar as she answered “Guilty,”

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:53 PM

“Seize her!” Mordenair ordered. Mordedana did nothing while she was bound. She prayed silently unsure who she was praying to. The Tier'dal man sneaked away in the new confusion. She was led to the Execution Plaza. Her brother forced her to her knees. “Any last wordsss traitor.” Mordenair asked as he raised his sword. “Nair, my only regret isss that you don't understand. I've been a Paladin since we were children, but I have sinned more... I never followed my heart to know what my true path wasss until now. Maybe I must sacrifice myself and only then can I atone for the many wrongsss I have committed.” she heard a sound like thunder. She turned as she saw the claymore drop next to her. She looked behind her to see Mordenair stumble. The crowd stood motionless. She found herself no longer bound as the old human approached her with Frankie. “There is not much time. You have even less time than Mazsra did. You will not be able to pack anything except what you have. I have already sent word of your arrival.” Mordedana nodded “Tell them my name,” “I did” She shook her head “No my new name Mordedana Shadowlight,” John nodded “Fine name,” “I'll miss you Mordy,” Frankie whispered Mordedana stood up and looked at the young human “I'll miss you to... and no one will ever be allowed to call me Mordy so it staysss special.” “I can't keep them like this much longer. Run!” John ordered the Iksar. “Use the Thieves way and go to The Commonlands. From there use the Druid Ring to Antonica.” Mordedana nodded and took off in a run. She disappeared into the thieves way. She prayed for guidance as she made her way first to Shadow Alley and then into a grave yard. She found a gate leading from the Graveyard to The Commonlands. She continued running she was almost to the druid when some guards started catching up to her. She tripped over a rock.

Brienae

08-12-2011, 12:54 PM

She saw autumn leaves swirl into a portal. “It will take you to Antonica Cub,” a cream Ratonga said helping her up. “Thank you,” Mordedana said before she jumped through the portal. On the other side was an old pink and black Iksar with a ghostly wolf at her side. She ran and embraced Mordedana “I always knew you would follow. Come now let's go home.” Mordedana turned “What about the druid?” Mazsra smiled “Tetri can take care of herself,” she grabbed her by the shoulder “Now tell me what took you so long?” Two years later Mordedana is officially a Paladin. She still works to atone for her past sins and follows Mithaniel Marr. Approximately one year ago young Franklin arrived in Qeynos to continue his training under Mordedana whom he still calls Mordy. He is now a registered squire. It is unknown when Mordedana will feel she has fully atoned for her sins probably never but one thing is certain her heart remains pure and always will do what is right.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:45 AM

((In Dungeons and Dragons undead can not be healed. Now I am aware that in game this does not matter as Freeblood even though everywhere calls them undead and they show clear signs that indeed they are undead they can still be healed. I guess it would be rather complicated to change the game mechanic so they could not be. In most lore that I have read however a vampire can not be healed by divine magic. In all honesty I had not considered normal lore when I created my Freeblood. In the roleplay A Fae Flies into a Bar I introduced Alyerra. Nothing below relates to the rp in any way except for a comment made by one of the other characters. The Paladin mentioned that he could not heal Alyerra as it would only make her wound worse. That got me thinking. Shortly after that a thread was created called Paladins and Undead and it asked many questions about how Paladins should feel about undead. So all things considered you will notice some issues with divine magic and Freeblood. One last thing before I turn it back over to Brienae: I would like to thank Bellacouste/Llewenayah for making me think as it was her Paladin Charlemin who first brought it up))

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:47 AM

The music from the Lyre becomes slower and a bit more melancholy as the Fae begins her next Ballad: Song of Blood It was storming as the Dark-Elf made her way through Nektolous forest. The rain barely touched her through the trees. For the moment she was lucid. Her mind only saw the trees. She touched a hand to her swollen stomach as a flutter of movement reminded her why she ran. She stopped and spoke out loud “You have no idea what world you will be born into... and me a mother?” she looked at the sky “Was I not disgrace enough?” she shuddered her white hair and her clothing absorbing more water. She had no choice but to quit walking. She turned hearing noises. She screamed as she saw zombies coming towards her. The Tier'dal did not know if they were real or imaginary. She looked for a direction to turn but they were everywhere. She began to sweat despite the coolness of the water. She closed her eyes and fell to the ground as two skeletons came nearer. The Dark-Elf opened her eyes and screamed as a tall muscular red haired human loomed over her. She aimed a punch up at him but missed as he dodged. “Mesena she's awake.” Jacob called to his wife. “You have no reason to fear me.” he said as his Feir'dal wife came into view. Mesena knelt by the Teir'dal “My husband won't hurt you.” she said “I'm Mesena Windstaff Flamefist and this is my husband Jacob. We saw you fall in the forest. What is your name?” “Senriala,” The Dark-Elf said sitting up. She looked at the Wood-Elf “I see you are also heavy with child.” she shook her head “Why would a woman in your condition help someone like me?” Mesena smiled “Everything is balance. I believe in justice. Your race does not make you evil. To my knowledge you have done nothing wrong. When I saw you, all I saw was sick woman. Your child...” she paused “You carry the reminder of a terrible crime that was committed against you, that is how you view the life growing in you. You must not think of her that way. You must think of her as a blessing,” Senriala blinked “Her? How do you know?” “I can't explain it,” Mesena answered. “Same way I know I also carry a daughter.” Jacob smiled. “Come with us. We were headed back to Kelethin. We are well known in there so we can vouch for you.” “Thank you.” Senriala answered “But... I don't know... I mean I am Tier'dal... and” she closed her eyes “I have always been mentally ill. My father kicked me out when he discovered I was with child. You're right I was attacked... and the child is the product of that attack... it was a human.” she smiled “At least I don't have to marry the troll...he broke off the engagement when he found out.” “See everything is balance. Already she has saved you.” Mesena said. A few months later in Kelethin Senriala held a newborn half-elf in her arms “Alyerra,” she told Tetriemmy who had helped her. “No last name, just Alyerra, my little Alyerra.”

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:48 AM

Four years later a Dirge was performing at Senriala's tavern The Tainted Eagle. Alyerra watched her mother. She remembered her Mom talking about the music she had listened to in Neriak. She could see the emotions stirring as her mother remembered. As the Dirge started to leave she ran to catch up to him “Please teach me. I want to play like you.” The human turned and looked at the child. “Mommy likes your music. I want to play music for my Mommy,” The human smiled. He stayed for a few weeks in Kelethin teaching the young girl how to play. The Flamefists stayed in touch sometimes taking Alyerra with them on their journeys. Alyerra's best friend was Kyriu Flamefist who had been born a month after her. The Flamefists considered Senriala and Alyerra as family with Kyriu and Alyerra calling each other cousins. When Alyerra was twelve Mesena made her a guitar. The guitar was her most prized possession. She was never seen without it. Several years later Senriala held the guitar in her hands. The neck was broken into three pieces. The main body of the guitar was broken. She sobbed. “My Alyerra... where are you?”

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:49 AM

Alyerra opened her eyes. She tried to sit up but discovered that her wrists and ankles were bound. She turned her head to look around. She was in a large room lit only by torches. On either side of her she could see others bound as she was. “Where am I?” she asked the ceiling. A robed figure stepped into the room “That is not your concern Fourteen,” he stood over her and ran his hand over her face “Such pretty blue eyes,” he whispered “Those will stay.” Alyerra moved her head away from the hand. “I think there's been a mistake. My name is Alyerra. I don't think I'm supposed to be here.” The robed man laughed “You are supposed to be here. We sent out scouts to find us specimens which would be ideal for our experiments.” “You're not running experiments on me!” she shouted. The man laughed “A feisty one aren't you? You will be especially interesting to watch. Others tried these experiments and discovered that elves and humans worked best. You are both. Of course Wood-Elves don't seem to take well to the process.” he smiled running a finger around her face again “Because your friend was Half-Feir'dal our scouts took care of her.” “Ky?” Alyerra shook her head “No you're lying. Kyriu Flamefist is a great warrior almost as great as her parents. She may not be a grandmaster yet but she would not fall so easily.” The man shrugged “Believe what you want it is no matter to me Fourteen.” “Stop calling me that! I told you my name is Alyerra.” she turned her head and spit on the man's hand “I would rather die then let you experiment on me.” The man laughed again doubling over. He was joined by more robed figures. “What is so funny?” the voice of a woman asked. The man straightened “Fourteen says she would rather die than let us experiment on her. The rest of the figures doubled over in laughter as well. The figures straightened “Now shall we begin?” the first man asked. The others gathered nodded. They separated themselves among the tables. “Begin the first phase,” came the order. Alyerra watched as the robed figures gathered around her began to move their hands. One leaned low and whispered in her ear “You are a funny girl... we appreciate your joke. Allow me to explain... part of the experiment you will die... that's the point.” Alyerra squirmed trying to get away as she watched a black lightning begin to emit from the hands of those around her. She knew her struggle was pointless. She screamed as the black energy was channeled into her body. She was unsure how long the pain lasted before they ceased casting again. Her heart pounded as the pain slowly ebbed away. Her breathing was labored. The robed figures left the room. Later the robed figures returned and began to cast again. It was impossible to tell how much time was passing. There was no change to the surroundings. At one point the order was given for phase two and then three.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:49 AM

Alyerra closed her eyes. She saw a bright light. As she opened her eyes and looked around she was standing in a field. “Come Alyerra,” said a Wood-Elf woman with light brown hair and yellow eyes. “Aunt Mesena... but you're dead.” she gasped. Next to the Wood-Elf stood a human with shoulder length red hair and green eyes. “Uncle Jacob? You're both dead...that must mean...” Alyerra blinked “No... I can't be... I'm not ready to die. What about Mom? I need to go back to her... she needs me.” “Alyerra,” Jacob spoke “You don't have much time. You must come with us,” Alyerra shook her head “No..” she took a step back. “If you do not accept death now child... death will not accept you later,” Mesena whispered. “I don't understand.” “The people who killed you they intend to make you something that defies balance,” Jacob answered “You must not let them succeed. The only way they will fail is if you accept death.” he held out his hand to her as a shadow wrapped around her. “As I said if you don't accept death death will not accept you.” Alyerra swallowed and took the hand offered to her as the shadows grabbed her and began to pull. She screamed as she was painfully pulled out of Jacob's grasp.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:50 AM

She opened her eyes. She was back on the table chained. She felt different but she was unsure how. “Check them,” the first robed man ordered. “Thirteen has no heart beat nor is he breathing,” someone shouted. “Fourteen is awake,” shouted someone next to her. “Fifteen has no pulse nor breath,” came the call. The robed man in charge approached Alyerra “I believe I know the answer, but I want to confirm. Clearly you are breathing.” he said as he unchained her wrist. He placed two fingers on her wrist for a few seconds. “Congratulations Fourteen.” he looked into her eyes “You have passed our final test.” “Almost thought we lost you there...” “I thought you said I was supposed to die.” she hissed. The crowd of robes erupted with laughter. “And you did,” the Leader answered “Maybe we should do something about that mouth.” “No,” another said laughing “I find this one amusing when she's not killing for us she'll be very amusing,” “I will never kill for anyone,” The leader spoke “You don't have a choice Fourteen.” “My name is Alyerra!” “Take Fourteen to her quarters and see that she's fed. Maybe after a proper feeding she will understand her purpose.”

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:51 AM

Alyerra was led to a what could only be described as a prison cell. There was a single cot. She sat down on the cot as the barred door was shut. She pondered the words she had heard. “Your breakfast will be here shortly,” one of her robed escorts announced. Her stomach began to ache. “Thanks.” she sighed “Don't suppose you'll let me choose what kind of bread I get,” The robes laughed as they walked away. From down the hall she heard a scream. Once the robes were gone Alyerra placed two fingers on her own wrist. She counted. “No,” she whispered as though out loud would change what she was feeling. She felt her wrist again pressing harder on the point where she should have felt something but there was nothing. “I don't have a pulse how can I not have a pulse and still be breathing?” There was another scream from down the hall. One of the robes returned with a shivering young woman. “Your breakfast,” the robed man laughed as he opened the door and shoved the young woman inside. He locked the door and left. “Just get it over with,” The woman demanded. Alyerra looked at the woman “I don't know what you are talking about.” The woman laughed “You and I both know why I'm here so bite me and make sure you kill me I don't want to be one of you,” “You have me confused with someone else. I'm not going to kill you. This is a joke or a nightmare.” The woman looked at her “You really don't know? You don't know what you are?” “I'm a Half-Teir'dal.” The woman sighed “Not anymore. You are a vampire... a Freeblood to be more precise.” “No,” Alyerra answered “No that can't be... I have to be dreaming.” “You're not dreaming.” the woman told her “Get used to this. This will be your curse for the rest of your life and you will live a very long time.” the woman hissed. Alyerra collapsed onto the cot and cried. The woman scowled.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:51 AM

Time passed the woman still lived. “Why don't they at least feed you.” Alyerra asked “I mean I can see your bones,” The woman sighed “Because they assumed you would give into your hunger by now.” Alyerra swallowed “Hunger... when I need to drink... according to you” “Thirst then.” Alyerra bit her lip to stop her scream of pain. “Whatever you want to call it. You can't hold if off much longer.” “No, I don't want to kill.” Alyerra answered. She let out a scream as the intense pain in her stomach increased. Her nails began to lengthen into claws. “What's happening to me?” she whispered The woman swallowed and stepped against the opposite wall. “You will feed soon... and you won't be able to stop yourself.” she closed her eyes and began praying. Alyerra screamed again as she felt her body further transform. Her blue eyes turned red and her long honey blonde hair became shorter ending just below her ears. She looked around and saw the woman trying to get away. “No!” her mind screamed as she pounced on the woman. Her teeth sank into the woman's shoulder instantly rewarding a nice flow of blood. “No!” Alyerra's mind screamed again She could feel and taste the blood that was running down her throat. It tasted like blood. In her mind she started crying as her body continued to drink. “This is disgusting,” her mind hissed “I'm a bard... how can a bard be so sick?” The woman closed her eyes as she fell into unconsciousness. Alyerra pulled herself off the woman as her body returned to normal. She swallowed the last mouthful of blood and gently grabbed the unconscious woman under the arms and carefully dragged her to the cot and laid her down. Alyerra wiped a pale purple arm across her mouth. She licked her teeth and then her lips. Tears fell from her eyes as she looked at the crimson streak on her arm. She stepped over to an opposite corner and sank to the floor crying.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:52 AM

The woman woke up as the lead robe walked up to the gate. She sat up “I'm not dead am I?” “No,” the lead robe answered “Pity too. Fourteen does not know how to turn so you will not become like her.” he sighed “Now do you understand Fourteen?” “Go to Hell.” Alyerra growled. The man sighed “Oh Fourteen... let me explain this more to you. You need blood to live...” “I'm not living. This is not living!” “Fine, but starving yourself if you so choose won't change things. You've already discovered that your body will make sure you get what you need. Although sometimes you idiots pass out from lack of energy.” He shrugged “In time you will learn to be content with what you are and when we send you out you will kill for us. Understand me Fourteen we have a purpose for you,” Alyerra stood “I don't care what your purpose is for me! You think you can control me? You're wrong! I may be...” she couldn't bring herself to say the word dead “You will never control me!” “We may have to do something with that mouth after all. You talk far too much.” he turned and walked away. Alyerra looked at the woman “How do you feel?” “A little weak.” the woman said “Kayla, my name is Kayla.” “It's been how long and you finally give me your name?” she closed her eyes “They brought you some food,” she pointed to the floor where a few chunks of bread had been tossed and glass of water had been placed. Kayla grabbed the bread and eagerly tore at it with her teeth. She drank some water. After finishing the bread and water she turned “You could have killed me. You could have kept drinking until you killed me but you didn't. What are you? I mean how do you earn your bread?” “I'm... I was a Dirge,” Alyerra answered. “Was.... listen to me Alyerra you still have your voice which means you are still a Dirge. You are not the only Freeblood here you know. I'm sure if nothing else a little music would be welcome until you get out of here.” Alyerra bit her lip exposing a fang while she thought. She was back in her room the words and music swirled together as a song formed in her mind. She straightened and started to sing. Her alto voice filled her cell and then as she built a crescendo of confidence her voice drifted down the hall. She sang lost only in the words and melody: I see the crimson flood rising and drowning I try to swim away, to escape but where to go? Every turn I make all I see is the Crimson flood Where does it come from. I don't want to know.. Don't tell me I want to deny it. The Crimson flood pulls me under The Crimson flood drags me in it's undertow The Crimson Flood drowns my heart and dreams How can I escape? I open my eyes on the soft shore I'm glad to be breathing but something is wrong People are running away I look for the monster they all run from All I see in the water is me The Crimson Flood pulls me under The Crimson Flood drags me in its undertow The Crimson Flood drowns my heart and dreams How can I escape? How can I escape the Crimson Flood?

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:53 AM

Kayla listened to the song in silence. “You are talented. Sad song, but considering where we are... and my experience has been that dirges aren't exactly the most jolly singers. I prefer Troubadors myself.” she smiled “I know the answer. I'll help us escape.” she closed her eyes and prayed “Winds of Nature guide my path, Help me do what I must.” she looked at Alyerra “Forgive me but this is going to hurt.” she closed her eyes and summoned a swarm of green leaves around Alyerra. Alyerra screamed as the green leaves burned. Kayla controlled the flow of leaves so that they did not burn the Freeblood's face or hands. Alyerra's screams brought a crowd of robes. “What is the meaning of this?” asked the lead robe “Never mind restrain the Druid!” Kayla laughed as they opened the door. She summoned ice causing the robes to shudder. She looked at Alyerra who had doubled over in pain and canceled her spell. She noticed that one of the robes screamed. She laughed and summoned Green leaves on him. The robe screamed more. “You even turn your own?” she asked. “What have you done?” the lead robe asked as someone took the screaming man out. “I tried to heal her. It'll destroy her if I keep going.” Kayla said raising her hand towards Alyerra as though she were going to cast again. “Go ahead,” The lead robe said “You've already burned her. We have discovered no way to heal them of divine wounds,” “You people are sick.” she cast another wave of ice this time the robes froze. She grabbed Alyerra gently and led her out of the cell. She stopped at another cell where a Freeblood man and a young boy were being held. “Gregor,” she breathed “And Simon.” she found the keys on one of the frozen robes and unlocked the door. The boy ran into her arms. Kayla hugged him and looked at the man “Gregor... no,” The man nodded “Yes, but I do not believe Marr has abandoned me I will continue to serve him. Perhaps it is his will that I live forever to spread his good name,” Kayla nodded “Let's go,” she looked back at Alyerra. “Carry her,” she told Gregor. Gregor nodded and picked Alyerra up in his arms. Alyerra made no struggle. “Rest child,” Gregor instructed “We will see you safe. Alyerra closed her eyes.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:54 AM

Alyerra opened her eyes. She could smell a fire burning. She sat up. She was inside a tent. Looking down she could see that her wounds were bandaged. Kayla walked in “Herbs,” she explained “No magic involved just a lot of good natural Aloe Verra.” she nodded to a pile “We bought you clothes. I hope you like them. We also bought you weapons and an instrument.” “Thanks,” Alyerra answered. “Sorry, I knew my healing would hurt you, but I didn't think it would hurt you as bad as it did. Alyerra hissed as she surveyed her body. Bandages covered her arms, legs and chest. “Thanks, for sparing my hands,” she said. “Don't mention it. I figured you would be wanting to play again.” Alyerra nodded and gingerly began to put on the clothes. There was white chain link tunic and brown sleeves as well as brown boots. The chain link was trimmed with brown square gems. “I'll take care of your bandages until you're healed,” Kayla said “Normal wounds you'll be able to heal yourself, but divine wounds such as this either will take time to heal or if you want to trust a Necromancer I'm sure they could heal it. I believe another Dirge could heal you as well.” Alyerra nodded “I haven't learned that song yet,” “When you're dressed come on out,” Kayla instructed as she left the tent. Alyerra finished getting dressed and grabbed the two daggers and the tambourine which had been left. She frowned as she examined the tambourine. She sighed “I guess it will have to do,” she stepped out of the tent. “Feeling better Alyerra?” Gregor asked. “My apologies we were not properly introduced. I am Gregor Delmion. This is my Squire Simon Smith and you've already met his sister Kayla. Kayla told us all about you.” Alyerra nodded. “She did not tell us your last name,” Simon piped up. “I don't have one,” Alyerra laughed. She grimaced as the laughter caused her burned chest to hurt. “You see my Mom was attacked by a man and I was born from that.” Gregor nodded “So you're a half Dark-Elf. Shame that Teir-dal...” Alyerra stopped him “Mom is the Tier'dal,” “Oh my apologies,” Gregor said “I meant no offense. I was human.” “None taken. That confuses a lot of people.” “Well you're welcome to join us. We were going home to Qeynos,” “I'm from Kelethin,” Gregor smiled “I am a Paladin of Qeynos.” Kayla took two roasted animals from the fire and handed one to her brother. She looked at the two Freeblood. She sighed “I have some conditions for both of you,” Gregor nodded. “What kind of conditions?” Alyerra asked. “I'll tell you,” Kayla said “I am a Servant of Nature, a Warden. I am not as zealous as some Druids, but both of you are unnatural. I can let that slide but... you can not feed on people. If you ever do... I will have no choice but to end your existence.” she looked at them both for a moment “Animals are fine. I would say if you drink the blood of animals that is permissible,” “I agree,” Gregor said Alyerra nodded.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:54 AM

They had been traveling a few days. Alyerra and Gregor took turns hunting with Kayla and Simon. The vampires drained the blood out of the animals they found. Kayla then roasted the corpses for her and Simon. Evidently the three had been caught together. Gregor had been training Simon as his squire before the capture and was only too glad to continue. Alyerra admired his faith, although at times she found herself wanting to strangle the Paladin as her own faith had collapsed. Once she had prayed to Bristlebane, but this joke was not one she could handle. She had been heard to mutter a prayer of forgiveness before she fed. She wasn't even sure who she was praying to, but it was something she felt she needed to do. Gregor seemed to approve. They were taking the long way. Kayla thought maybe it was best if the two vampires were not on a crowded ship for a few days with few feeding options. “Mind if I join you?” said a voice. They had stopped in Nektolous forest. Kayla looked up at the man who had spoken. She glared as she studied him and the drachnid behind him. “Same rules apply,” she said “Only feed on animals.” Alyerra looked at Kayla for a moment with confusion. “He's one of you,” Kayla explained “He's also a Necromancer,” “Very astute of you madame,” the man said as he bowed “I'm Nedrid Fenris and this is Moira.” he indicated the Drachnid. He frowned “Feeding on animals? Is that even possible?” “Yes it is,” Alyerra hissed “How can you even think that feeding on other people is good?” Nedrid shrugged and sat down. Simon groaned as his sister handed half of a roasted snake. “When can we have real food?” he grumbled. “When we get to Thundermist Village.” Kayla answered. That night in the girl's tent Alyerra whispered to Kayla “I don't trust him,” Kayla sighed “Nor do I, but I should give him the chance. After all I gave you the chance,” “Yeah... true,”

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:55 AM

The trudge through Nektolous was surprisingly uneventful. As the group stepped into Thundering Steppes Simon dashed ahead. They stopped to camp near the centaurs. Simon eyed the Griffon Station “Isn't there a Griffon near Thundermist?” he asked. “There is,” Kayla answered “But you're not going alone,” “I'll go with him,” Alyerra volunteered. “Might be nice to perform in a Tavern. Who knows maybe they'll give us free food. Kayla nodded. “Stay with Alyerra, Simon.” she warned. “I will go hunt for some food for those of us who need a more liquid diet.” Gregor said “Care to join me sir Fenris?” “No thanks,” Nedrid answered. Alyerra and Simon took griffons to the Thundermist Station. They found a tavern bustling with people. Alyerra looked around and sighed “Reminds me of home,” she said. Simon grinned “Why don't you play something Aly?” Alyerra smiled back exposing her fangs. “Er might want to hide those,” Simon whispered. Alyerra's smile vanished. She walked into the tavern followed by Simon and introduced herself. She performed one of her older songs and the Tavern owner gave her two free meals. “I'll take the rest of the food back to Kayla.” Simon whispered Alyerra took a few spoonfuls of the soup she had been given.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:56 AM

Simon carried a small bag of food left over from his and Alyerra's meals. Alyerra landed first. The smell of blood filled the air. She ran over. Nedrid was leaning over something. Alyerra dashed over afraid of what she would find. Nedrid stood up and turned. His mouth was dripping with blood. Alyerra gasped and dashed around him. She sank to the ground to examine what he had been feeding on. She swallowed as her fear was realized. It was Kayla. Simon ran over and pushed the Dirge out of the way. Nedrid stood and wiped his mouth. Alyerra stood up and drew her daggers. She placed one against Nedrid's throat. “Why?” she hissed. Nedrid laughed “You have to ask. She's only a human, first we are more already you and I... well I can tell you were a half-breed. But now that we are immortal we are even more superior to them.” Gregor ran up and knelt next to Kayla. His hands glowed white as he prayed. He shook his head. “She's gone,” the pain he felt could be seen in his eyes Simon drew his sword “Get away from her.” he hissed. Gregor stood up and pulled Alyerra back with him. Nedrid turned to look at the boy “Hm well,” he licked his teeth. “I should have known I couldn't trust any of you!” Simon shouted. Gregor approached his squire “Simon sheath your sword.” he turned to Nedrid “You are under arrest for Murder.” “You are no longer my mentor!” Simon screamed. “I hate you all of you! Nedrid laughed “And how are you going to arrest me Paladin?” Gregor drew his own sword and shield. “I will fight you if you don't come quietly,” Nedrid laughed and ordered Moira to attack. The Drachnid began casting spells at Gregor. Alyerra sheathed her daggers and approached the body as the spells went off. “I want all of you monsters to stay away from her!” Simon shouted charging Alyerra with his sword raised. Gregor stopped the sword with his shield. He dropped his sword and grabbed the boy with his other arm. “We should give her a proper funeral and burial,” Alyerra whispered. “Something only someone living can do!” Simon continued to scream. Alyerra stood she rounded on Gregor and Nedrid “Have you no respect!” she shouted. Nedrid laughed “Respect? For what? I can bring her back boy.” “No,” Simon growled “Not the way you do.” He lowered the sword as torches flared in the distance. He looked around at the three Freebloods and ran towards the torches. Nedrid disappeared in the darkness. Alyerra looked at Gregor. “We have nothing to hide,” Gregor whispered to her. Alyerra nodded. Torches flared in thier faces as the cry rose “Vampires!” Alyerra felt a pain in the back of her head and all went black.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:56 AM

Alyerra woke up and vomited the soup from the previous night. She groaned as she retched again. She was in another Cell. She retched again. Outside she could hear voices. The voices drew closer. Tetriemmy scowled. She had been asked to help destroy these vampires which had been discovered last night. Her view had always been that the dead should remain dead. Undead were unnatural and had to be destroyed. She looked at the vampire before her. Her golden brown hair looked familiar. “You're existence is unnatural,” she spoke. Her tail lashed in anger. “I know...” Alyerra whispered. She swallowed as she recognized the voice “I didn't choose this...” tears fell from her eyes “Ms. Tetri, I just want to go home. I want to see my Mom again.” Tetriemmy's tail froze “Look at me,” she ordered. Alyerra raised her head and met the Ratonga's eye. Tetriemmy closed her eye. “Leave us,” The group who had come with her started to leave. Tetriemmy stopped “Actually tell my companion to come here,” After a few minutes Tetriemmy was joined by a young Half-Elf woman. Her skin was tan like a wood-elf's but her hair was a two tone red. One ring of rust circled the rest which appeared to be orange like a flame. Alyerra stood “Ky! You're alive!” Kyriu blinked her green eyes “Aly?” she looked at Tetri “They said they had two vampires... but Aly's not...” Alyerra swallowed “I am a vampire... I'm a Freeblood. I can go out in Sunlight, but I do need blood to survive. I've been surviving on animal blood. I was hoping I could go home but...” she looked at the Ratonga. Kyriu turned to the Ratonga “Tetri you can't! It's Aly. She's still Aly.” “Cub you know a song that makes you invisible yes?” “Yes,” Alyerra answered. Tetriemmy nodded. She turned to Kyriu “Cub, tell them to open the door,” Kyriu swallowed and dashed outside. She returned with a guard who produced keys and opened the cell. He nodded to Tetri and left. “Tetri, please... let me at least see my Mom one more time.” Alyerra pleaded. Tetriemmy stepped inside followed by Kyriu. “Listen to me Cub. You are unnatural, but you were one of my Cubs. I can not destroy you. If you promise never to feed on a person, but only on animals then I will let you go. Kyriu will take you home.” Alyerra nodded “What about Gregor, he's a Paladin.” Tetriemmy nodded “I will help him,” A few minutes later Alyerra was free. She had turned invisible and run with Kyriu outside while Tetriemmy burned her cell.

Brienae

02-01-2012, 11:57 AM

Senriala sat alone in her tavern. Her daughter's guitar was mounted on the wall. She had seen her daughter many times in hallucinations. She was drinking her own brew of Tier'dal Bloodwine. It was late, but she couldn't sleep. There was a knock on the door. She ignored it until the two dogs someone had given her started barking. She sighed and stood up “We're closed!” she shouted at the door. “I noticed you're looking for a bard,” a voice said. Senriala sighed “I'm the only one here,” “I'd like to be famous someday, but...” Outside Alyerra paused “Mom... “ the door opened and she was pulled in. Senriala held her daughter while she explained about her condition. The two women cried together. Senriala looked her daughter in the eyes “Twenty-two years ago, my father threw me out of his house because I was with child from an incident. I was betrothed to a horrid man. I was angry at that child, but when I saw you, I couldn't be mad. Then you became a Dirge and all you wanted was to make music for me. You have talent.” she smiled “Vampire or no, you are my daughter and I will always love you and support you. Someday you will be famous.”

Brienae

02-01-2012, 12:06 PM

A few months have passed since Alyerra returned home. She performs at The Tainted Eagle at least once every two weeks. She has also started traveling and performing in other taverns. She prefers to feed in private and tries as hard as she can to keep her condition hidden. It is unknown what her future holds, but someday her name will be known all over Norrath.~~~~Brienae sheathes her lyre as the last of the notes fade. "I'm afraid that's all the Ballads I have," she says."But wait a minute Brienae what about Tsimia? I thought you were going to sing about her." I say to her"She made me sick," Brienae sniffs "I'm sorry but I could not get her ballad."I sigh "But you were supposed to sing all of them."I know," Brienae sighs.From the shadows guitar music is heard. The Dirge steps out of the shadows the light falling on her. Her skin is a light purple and her eyes an icy blue. Her honey colored hair ends just below her shoulders. A breif smile reveals her fangs which she quickly hides. She wears a cloth Gi of black, silver and blood red. Her stomach can be see, but most of her arms are covered in blood red webbed with black. "I know that one, and a few more too" she says. "My name is Alyerra, that's it Alyerra. I'll take it from here,"