View Full Version : (M) Blood Line CH1: The Bloody Arrival OOC&IC a Kris X Siks 1X1 Rp.
SikstaSlathalin
10-11-2017, 03:35 AM
In the world of High Magic and Adventure, darkness is in a constant feud with light. Good vs evil is the ultimate in endless conflict. And sadly they often trample those mortal foolish enough to get in their way. This, like many stories before it will show this struggle from the ground level of two individuals, Sabin Togar of the Qamran Tribe and Dire of Blacklake. Sabin Togar (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=12634&page=3&p=2617008&viewfull=1#post2617008), a female Dark Elf from the Qamran Tribe of deadly assassins. She has been sent out into the above world to retrieve an artifact of cosmic power, before the traitorous Black Mages of the New Moon Tribe get their hands on it and wipe out all Dark Elf clans who refuse to follow their tyrannical cult and worship the bloody Goddess of Chaos Detrly.
She will journey many leagues in search of aid. But her kind of thought of as evil and impure to many of the above world races. Cutthroats, thieves, whores for hire, these and many more vile terms are attached to the Dark Elves. So she is met with resistance, hatred, and violence in nearly every village she enters especially by their ancient enemy, the brutish race of Orcs that roam the land. A mutual distrust and general anger dating back thousands of years when it is believed Dark Elves and Orcs stemmed from the same group of outcast Elves thrown from the ancient kingdoms of the Noble Folk. The two races blame the other for getting them expelled from paradise, but not even the oldest of Dark Elf and Orc know this to be true.
Sabin is undaunted in her journey to complete her mission, but she knows she cannot do it alone and her mother, the Chieftess of her Tribe forbade her from asking another Dark Elf for help, she does not know who can be trusted when the New Moon Cult is involved. But she is met with opposition at each turn, that is until she reaches the valley hamlet of Sāmhach it means silence in the ancient tongue and this small village was indeed that, but it was also home to a plethora of races. Humans, Elves, Dwarves, Beast people, and many more. If she would find help anywhere it would be here, at least that was her hope. But the people of Sāmhach want nothing to do with adventurers or treasure hunting, they simply wish to be left alone. But along the road she did hear mention of a veteran mercenary living on the outskirts of the town. Hunting for coin and clothing many said he was a reliable and very experienced warrior and adventurer, but as she sought him out she learned a painful truth no one saw fit to mention...he is also an Orc.
Thus she meets Dire of Blacklake (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=27&p=2737551&viewfull=1#post2737551). Dire, like many Orc was born into war, his first memories are of fighting for his life against three bears. And from there it has been war, blood, and death, his father was the leader of the Blacklake Guard a mercenary unit comprised entirely of Orcs his name was Grimore and he was also a powerful subclass of Orc warrior he was a Berserker. The most feared units on many battlefields. Unafraid, in a state of near constant bloodrage, and able to break a powerful horse's neck with a single blow.
They were what many Orc aspired to Dire included who was named Krom at the time. He proved himself and earned the bright red tattoos of the Berserkers. He lived for the Blacklake Guard and even found his mate within their ranks a mighty female named Shiga. Together they fought many battles, but disaster struck the mercenary band. A group of mages had struck down and burned the Blacklake encampment to the ground. Many of the bodies couldn't even be identified, so taking on the new names of Dire and Scorn they wandered the land finding those who had escaped the massacre and trying to rebuild the only family they ever knew. They eventually settled in Sāmhach and lived out the rest of their lives, they, and two children they adopted and raised. A boy named Grit went off to be a Merc in his own right and Whisper settled into the life of a Hunter running off with an Ogre to be wild nomads of the land.
Now going on his 350th year of life Scorn has passed on to the next life and Dire simply lives out his days waiting for his own chance to move into the Realm of Shadows and Dreams. But the game of the land are moving on and his livelihood goes with them. So once words comes his way of a woman looking for an experienced merc to help her with a quest he is eager to start, but there is one problem...she's a Dark Elf.
Two natural born rivals thrust together to fight against a conspiracy neither of them are any the wiser too, but with luck, skill, and no small measure of trust they can overcome that which has been set against them.
We begin our tale on the road and before Sabin meets Dire, when she gets sidetracked by an old prisonmate, one Y'gol Skullborne (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=31&p=2941325&viewfull=1#post2941325), an Ogre of endless appetite and infamous renown.
The Feeling Begins (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTAaKAVpOOM&list=PLAC5905D15E1BB425)
(By Peter Gabriel from the album "Passion: The Last Temptation of Christ")
The atmosphere was eerie. Something you may often expect from a funeral
but this one was loaded with mixed feelings and heavy sensation of grief. The open coffin was carried upon three large wooden beams; each side was lifted by one maiden. All of which, six in total, wore silver dresses and wings which they shared with their partner from each side, symbolizing the twin goddesses of the moon.
A Matriarch's passing was not the usual kind of ceremony to go without a matching stunning display. From each cavern opening in the huge space of a "hall", were glassy balconies and from each dark figures gathered to look below them, at where the honorable lady was placed to be observed. A final parting, before she will rejoin the great mother of the earth.
The scenery itself was bewitching; the maidens were circling and moving in slow movements, the silver dresses they wore, shone on their dark bare skin like stars in space and their decoration of wings on their back only added something magical to the whole ritual.
From everywhere reflected millions of eyes, most of which were golden, and only few rare in silver, like candles lit for a mass prayer.
Sabin was among them. She was one of many and one to act for many. She fixed her cape on her head which throw some shade on her silver eyes as she slowly withdrew from the crowd, watching as more squeezed in to take her place.
It was emotional for her, watching the woman she called a "mother" lying to rest so deep below her. So close and yet out of reach, because of ranking and society demands.
But despite the rage, the yarning, the sadness and her love
She had no choice but to leave
***
The sudden death of the Matriarch was foreseen, and yet unpredictable. It was her time, and yet it was not. To keep the peace, the death was the reason of ongoing bad condition, but in truth, to the few who were tasked with peace of the "Two moons" tribe, it was a murder.
A silent, sweet, almost unheard
but still one that left a screaming silence and a huge gap to fill
Sabin was one of the heirs, but she didn't consider herself to be an important one. There were other daughters and sons after all, much mature and wiser to lead. She had only one goal, which was a revenge, and to do so she needed to find the object... the same thing for which her mother had lost her life
it might have been the only thing to help stopping those coming after her and her own clan.
Stepping further and further into the surface, Sabin slowly gained some resistance to the hot surface sun. The wind kissed the grass, as the birds' happy chipper was heard, so pure and sweet on the ears.
Spending most of her years underground made her more sensitive to the light, but the air was a welcomed change. Her lungs acclimatized to the clean breeze and she now found it easier to quicken her pace.
Storming onward, her feet easily made soft trails in the knee-high grasses, hopping into and out of them like a doe. Her breathing was light, measured to some unheard tempo, as she pushed onward with a quick, silent pace.
Her silver eyes were turned in and for all direction, in order to make sure she won't lose a single thing in her march; she was able to take in the sights and sounds around her, enabling her to discover and learn what came to pass here. Which animal pass in, what possible humanoid hunted here. Some tracks of warriors and a small battle.
She was curious, but did not halt to study the finding further, and moved as quickly as a summer rain.
The dark elves served and played part in many great wars, creating awful weaponry, machinery, and toxins, in addition to providing their services as spies and hitmen. They were very passionate about it and were often reminded of their heroes and gods, bravery and battles, and, in particular, that of the famous Genesis War between the twin goddesses of the moon.
But even a rich society such as theirs could go astray under the shadows of heart desires. They battled against themselves not once and soon parted into many area of the world. Now it seems a clan among the many, wished to conquer and do wrong
Or maybe it has been going on for some time now, and only now had they been wise enough to go for bolder moves against her clan.
Reaching for the outskirts of Sāmhach, she stopped, watching a tall and strange figure.
It was an ogre.
SikstaSlathalin
10-17-2017, 02:09 AM
The sharp snap of bones and the wet squish of flesh between teeth. Filled the dense forest air the half masticated carcus of a large deer. Hunched over the bloody body was a tall black skinned figure with an animal skull on his head and a pair of large gore covered cleavers leaning against a nearby tree. This is Y'gol Skullborne also known as the King's Killer. Former prisoner, former hunter, former flesh eating beast of the dark forests of the world. Ever since the escape from the frostmire prison the Grizzly Beast has been running free and undaunted through the wilds of the still mostly unexplored Eisgnol Highlands.
It has been a few years since the break out and the beast hasn't eaten the flesh of a sentient being in that whole time. Just deer, boar, and the occasional bear when the two apex predators crossed paths. The meat was juicer and brought less heat with it. He was enjoying the meatiest part of the deer's shoulder when he got the scent of a familiar and almost pleasant aroma. He let out deep raspy chuckle then lumbered into the sunlight still holding the deer's bloody leg in his hand. Lifting it to his mouth he took a large ripping chunk out of the thigh before he leaned against a tree studying the Dark Elf woman slowly. And in his slow whispering voice he greeted her.
"Well...well...Sabin Togar...I...never...thought...you...would cross...my path...a-again."
"It is Mutual, 'old friend'. But the goddesses thought otherwise, it seems", Sabin's voice was elegant and inviting. As sarcastic as she was, she still sounded pretty tamed, almost like she was truly meaning what she said.
Her grin was also tricking
It was a wild hunt of some years ago. The dark Elves were usually very natural by nature, so obviously this mission had to do with hiring. When requests reaches the Matriarch, it's up to her to decide if a mission should be taken or not, or if not her, it will be the council decision.
The mission seemed to be self justified, and the gold was not bad either. Stopping such terrible hulk, while earning few shining seemed like a good ruling. Obviously no one thought that joining the Frostmire's crusaders would bring more harm than good. Few small towns were ruined while they had at it and at the end the giant was able to escape...
"She is better now, Galita der Sar I mean...", said Sabin, the smile fading from her face.
It was a nasty last resort. While there were only few dark elves in the team followed by other kins of mortals and some varieties of other elves, the one who were able to catch up and corner him was herself and Galita, another female dark elf, but the two eventually lost, as Y'gol had the upper hand, and by giving Sabin a choice on her friend's life, he was able to flee, sparing the life of Galita in the process.
Sabin honored her promise to let him go... but she didn't expect the brute to be able to stay hidden all those years.
No real big chase was done afterward, because no major damage was reported and many assumed the Ogre might have found his end somewhere.
"Why are you here, Y'gol of Skullborne?", she asked, moving slowly around him, carefully studying his moves.
SikstaSlathalin
10-19-2017, 05:18 AM
Y'gol let out a deep amused chuckle as the Elf began to circle around him. She was very quick and quite deadly with her weapons, but the Ogre wasn't worried. He was built of tougher stuff than the average creature. Years of living in the elements with no shoes or much real clothing has turned the Carnivore's skin into battle tested leather, and his ability to endure many poisons is an inborn ability to all who eat raw flesh.
Lifting the deer to his mouth, his powerful jaws clamped down and snapped the deer's femur like a twig before ripping the entire upper half of the leg off and crunching it down his gullet bones and all. It has been many years since he thought about his escape from the formally inescapable prison. He and a few other inmates staged a coup breaking free of their shackles and took the prison by force. Oh did Buckblood feast that day, he was placed in the front of the mob and simply tore through the ranks of the guard slashing through them, but taking quick deadly bites of whoever got in his way. It was like the good old days for him, and because of the extra emotion nullifying magic that was placed in his collar he was able to do something he had never been able to do before. Remain level-headed and focused on escaping, before Frostmire he would've been lost in the heat of battle and simply killed everyone both in front of him and behind.
That was not the case and it may have been what truly freed him. Sabin and a few other had been hired by the warden when they recovered from the first wave of attacks. After that it was guerrilla warfare all around the prison and the land surrounding it. Inmates breaking free and escaping to the mainland and guards being reinforced by anyone willing to be a merc. Y'gol ate so well he almost felt full. And it was the magic in the collar that aided him the most, he had Sabin and Galita on the edge of the abyss, but he just wanted to be left alone so he struck a deal and parleyed the other Dark Elf's life for his freedom. The deal worked and Y'gol was gone before the midnight moon reached it's peak in the sky. That was the last time he dealt with people he didn't kill, ever since he's only been in a battle with any poacher who sees fit to try and drive his meals away. They are mostly humans, and don't taste good enough for the trouble that comes with eating them. After they are killed he takes what valuables he can find he leaves their bodies for the other scavengers.
He could see through her false smiles and words and it made him chuckle all the more. Turning now to face her, he finished the rest of the meat from the deer's leg and was in the process of scooping out the marrow and slurping it down. "Glad...to...hear...of...your...friend." He let out a strange sigh as if he wished he could've feasted on her flesh. As she continued to circle him he locked eyes with her's, a strange glint dancing across his red orbs. "Still...so...on edge...and... nosy." He quickly finished the marrow and began picking his jagged blood soaked teeth with a bone shard. "That...is...why...I...always...liked you...Dark Elves. Bitter tasting...but...your...natural...paranoia. Leaves...such a...memorable...aftertaste." Once he had finished with picking his teeth he crunched the bone down and swallowed it too before rubbing his black gnarled stomach making sure to rattle the fingerbone necklace he now sported. They were trophies from each sentient creature he has killed since his release. Most were human, but a trained eye could spot the heavy claw of a Dragonkin, the short stubby digits of a Dwarf, and the long slender bones of Elves. He was quite proud of them, he studied the Elf as she studied him and shrugged crossing his massive arms over an equally massive chest.
"I...am...simply...living...the life...I lived...before...prison." He motioned to the deer lying on the bloody grass behind Sabin. "The...real...question...is...what...are you...doing here? Dark...Elves...don't...normally...leave...their... dark...halls...and sacred...temples. Unless...it's...for...good...reason." He continued to follow the woman's path around, his bony, whiplike tail rattling gently as the metal spikes jangled in their sockets.
She didn't stop to circle him but she tried her best to give a serene sensation. She didn't want to alarm him unnecessarily, for the last thing she wanted was to fight him in the open with no backup.
Y'gol might have looked like a stupid beast, but he was anything but. In fact, despite lacking the education he was extremely wise and a keen observer. You stay long enough him and he will know how to get under your skin and manipulate you. It was really easy to fall prey to his tricks, after all, he always counted on other to think of him as nothing but a mess of muscles with no brain, and he would strike when least expected.
She often wondered how he was captured to begin with… Speaking of which, it seems that collar that was suppose to bind him was still decorating his neck.
"Spare me, Y'gol", she chose her words carefully. She could have put a fight against him, sure, but it was the last thing she wanted to do now. She had greater worries on her mind. Plus, battling him now was somewhat risky. Many years have passed since their last encounter and unlikely as it was, the bastard might have learned new tricks on the road. She was not ready for surprises yet, "You don't expect me to believe you just playing it safe, while there is a local human town not far from here…"
She hissed, "But unlike you, I plan to answer your inquiry", she shoot back, "I am seeking revenge. For the matriarch", she said slowly, "Y'gol, I will ask again, why are you here? I gave you my word, and spared your life, and you stayed away from civilized roads for many years. And yet you are so bold as to appear now?"
SikstaSlathalin
10-25-2017, 03:52 PM
Y'gol sighed and growled gently straightening up, but keeps his arms crossed over his chest.
"You...mean...Sāmhach? It...is...far...from...a concern...for...me. So...little...worth...eating." Growing bored with the woman circling him the Ogre moved slowly back to the deer carcus deciding which part to enjoy next. He liked to take his time with his meals, savor them. Usually he eats the limbs first, then goes to work on the innards and torso. The deer still had one leg left, but one leg made it easier to carry his kill to his den up north.
Hmming softly he reached into the deer's body and yanked out it's bloody heart. Lifting it to his lips he bit down small spurts of blood shooting out across the grass. " Hmm...revenge...for...your...Chieftain? How...very...human...of...you." He let out another chuckle slurping the blood from the beast's heart before going back to enjoying the gooey meat. "I...am...not...lying...about...my reason...for...being...here, but...you are...partially...right...in...your suspicion." He finished the heart and licked more blood from his hands. "I...normally...stay...far to...the north. Up...in...the...pine...barrens...away...from Sāmhach...and...it's neighboring...towns. But...something...has...unbalanced...the wildlife. Meat...isn't...plentiful...not...even...birds...ro ost...in the...lonely pines...anymore. In...my...experience...that...means...poachers...t hey are...making...me go...hungry. And...that...isn't good...for...those...cute...little...mountain...vi llages." He licked his bloody lips fiddling with his bone necklace again. Then his hand dropped and he let out another deep chuckle as an idea struck his beastly brain. "Maybe...you...can...help...them. I'm hunting...the poachers...now. I...tracked...them to...a...small...abandoned...fort...by the...river. High Elf...archers...all...men. I...can...kill...them, but...they...are...aware...of...my presence." He smiled evilly showing Sabin the two newest fingers on the left of his necklace. "I...can't...approach...the...gates...without...bei ng...fired...upon." He slowly walked up to her, his sheer size dwarfing the woman, his eye glowed red through his skull helmet. They roamed down her shapely female body resting for a few long seconds on her chest and hips. "But...an attractive...woman, especially...one of...a...race...known...for...promiscuity...could." His eyes moved up and down her body again before he lumbered back to his kill smiling still. "You...get them...to...let...you...in...put...on a...good show...then...once...their...guard...is down simply...open...the gate...for me...and...slip...out...in...the chaos." He pointed in the direction of Sāmhach. "Do...this...and...you will...save...many...innocent...lives." He chuckled now making a crushing motion with his hand. "If...you...don't...though...well...a body...needs...to...eat...something."
Sabin sheathed her twin daggers, the blades carefully sliding by each side, echoing in soft metallic sound, as they were brought inside each side of her belt.
She stopped moving and turned to pace backward a little. She soon dropped to the ground, her legs crossed as she considered his words. She was still alerted but allowed herself to calm down a bit; his aura was not projecting any malice and the way he crossed his hands over his chest indicated he was not aiming for an attack. Not now, anyway.
She was still furious with him about what happened long ago. After all he was a hunt which fled her in an dignify way. She too had to kill him instead of choosing her friend, but she couldn't.
Very human of her indeed.
She always been a bit odd ball in that regard.
The council was not happy with her decision of sparing the hulk, but alone in four walls, the Matriarch praised her for her action. She told her that she made the right decision. Even Galita thanked her... But the facts remained the same. She let the one she chased get the better hand.
No one could truly fault her though. It was so easy to fell prey to Y'gol's mind tricks. The bastard knew exactly which buttons to press and how to lead others to do his biddings. Even with Sabin, who let very few people get close to her, he was able to read her like an open book.
And even gazed at her as though she was one (yes, his leering eyes movement has not gone unnoticed. It was not a bother per so, in fact it was flattering, but at the same time Sabin was surprised to see his kind finding attractive points in another race which he had no problem devouring... Then again... it was probably a tease from his side... and it could be some kind of kink too)
While thinking she used a branch to draw lines with, and she slowly made figures in the mud around her. They were symbol which indicated on group of Elves. She then started to considered the information brought to her by the Ogre. The elves were clearly not dark ones, as he would have called them so if they were. It still was a mystery what race of Elves they were, as the term "high elves" was very broad and used too freely. Since they hunt and use the forest she wanted to consider them as wood elves, but they could have easily been just city elves growing rogue.
If those elves been around and hunting it meant that they had plans for long term activities. Could be harmful big attack... Could be a coup against Sāmhach? Could they be connected to the men that killed her mother?
Now... They were all males... which meant they were all taking part in some militia plans, but unorganized in Clan's order.
The situation sounded very tricky.
Sabin knew that penetrating their lair might prove too much of a task, even if she used her womanly assesses (As suggested by the Ogre). Not because she was unattractive, in fact Sabin knew she was some kind of a rare beauty. No this was not it. It was because of the way those elves were organized, which meant that playing it the normal way, will not work. They were most likely ready for any unexpected anomaly, even if it was a naked lone elven girl lost in the forest.
But she had no reason to worry too much. Y'gol's information was more than enough for her to form an idea.
After drawing enough lines in the sand she got up and dusted herself, "Yes... Very human of me", she chuckled softly, "How sad that not all of us are blessed with emotional balancing necklace, dear friend".
Her lips gently curved into a seductive smile as she said those words. If he was free to say what he wanted on her body, she sure as hell was gonna pick on him back, "Alas, the goddesses blessed me, and I'm thankful you have giving me time to collect myself", she said to Y'gol by doing a hand gesture which meant both pleading and "thank you".
She really wasn't that thankful, but the manners forced her otherwise.
She then looked at the sky, "In five nights the dark moon goddess will battle the white moon goddess and win.", Sabin meant the "moonless" time of the month, "And I, like the white lady, shall be back right after, and answers I will bring. They will either be news which pleases you, or blades which will be directed at you". Sabin meant that she will either solve the elven issue in 5 days, or that she will be forced to fight Y'gol, as there was no way that she could have allowed him to do as he pleased. She was natural, true, but Y'gol was her mistake and burden and she needed to make sure it was not a grave error on her part...
But truth be told... she just cared too much for the lives of the living...
"I will head to Sāmhach. I suspect that I may learn more there. By the comfort of the tavern, many lost souls wandered by night. I believe your problem may be shared with others...", Sabin nodded to herself. She might learn more of the situation in town, "We will meet here again in five days. But until then I need your word of an oath. You will stay away of the main road and take the beast's carcass with you...", Her silver orbs shone brightly as she gazed into his red eyes, "Will I have your word?"
SikstaSlathalin
10-26-2017, 05:13 AM
Y'gol growled softly as Sabin began to doodle in the mud and babble on about her inane deities. The only Gods an Ogre knows are the Gods of Life and Death and neither cared a whit about the worms they crush in their endless chess game. There is never a winner only the pawns that last the longest and The King's Killer has lasted for many years defying each move against him. The most powerful predators are always the ones smart enough to dodge the hunter's arrow and quick enough to kill what needed to be killed and eating his fill before vanishing back into the forest.
The Carnivore let out an almost weary sigh at the woman's roundabout speech. But he found himself chuckling as she took a jab at the effects of the necklace his large gnarled hand coming up to jingle the many bones.
"Be...thankful...for it. Or..I...would...have...devoured you...by...now...or...find...out...what exactly...you...will...be...giving the...hunters." It was rare he had sexual desires, Ogres are more driven by hunger than desire, but they must breed somehow and that cannot come without some sex drive. And it is rumored Dark Elves can take nearly all sizes and species to their beds.
As the woman spelled out her plan Buckblood chuckled in agreement but held up two fingers.
"So...be...it. You...have...my...word that...I...will...not...stray...far...from...my den. But...you...only...have...two days. This...kill...will...sustain...me...for...that...l ong, but...no...longer... the...poachers...have...driven...my...game...away. Only...bite-sized...things...remain." He moved to the deer and hefted it onto his broad shoulders adjusting the kill to a more comfortable position. " Two days...Sabin...that is...all the...time...you...have. Or...I..will...seek...my...food...within...the...h omes...of...Sāmhach. " He began moving though the trees for a steep hill and an old game trail. "Best...buy...yourself...a...harlot's...bodice...an d...skirt...these...Elves...may...not...have...see n...a...woman...in...many...months. But...one...in...the...armor...of...an...assassin. ..will...only...make...them...shoot...first...and. ..ask questions...later." He held up his two fingers once again for emphasis before he began to quickly climb the cliff face using only his one hand, his clawed feet, and tail.
"Spare me your fantasies; I still have time to act, no?", Sabin said, this time unable to contain her rage. She took a moment to collect herself, shuddering herself from his comments, "Speaking of time, we will settle at three days. This is not up to negotiation, DEAR FRIEND", her eyes shone just like his, "With that I will take my leave then. I will see you soon."
***
Let's talk about the issue of desires and lust among the kin of the elven people. It's not a secret most of them are very associated with the idea of beauty and vanity. They even openly declare it or show such manners when they present themselves, clearly avoiding the idea of grotesque and barbarism.
But in truth, everything regarding to the idea of passion is mostly suppressed. And before you ask, unlike what most people want to believe they do not lack a sex drive, it's just culturally been channeled on the other idea of lust, which is war, meaning that they will not outright show feelings, but will have no trouble bragging about the idea of battles or ravish in the thought of combat.
If one is familiar with the elves, they will know how talented they are with art and songs, and although they have many courtship poems, the culture is so strict that often such lyrics remain as such, words and not action. Even the women are held to the same standards, and the fact they live for such long years, they consider dawdling as childish behavior, making them act in brutal, cold, and very secretive manner.
They are so suppressed by the standards and manners that they will have no trouble finding the idea of abducting and raping someone from another race, like humans, as acceptable, for it will be connected with the idea of "war". (And even that behavior will often only happen with elves living on the wild, far from the rules of organized clans and family tribes).
Love reserved only to mates after proper ceremony was made and any open gestures of love are rather not be shown in public. It will be seen as weakness otherwise. This probably was the source of rumors on elven males being poor in bed, or even being bad lovers. (Sabin knew better as she enjoyed passionate nights with more than one elven kin from different clans, but that's going a bit off topic here).
This information was brought to explain why she decided against Y'gol "helpful" advices of her dressing in sultry cloths and simply bringing herself to the elves like a well dressed main course dinner.
This was not the way to approach these types of men as they were far too suspicious for their own good. Elves are too naturally wary of such act, mainly if it comes from a fellow elven woman, known for a race that is often hired for such works (And besides, heading to get herself attire would just waste time, and she was already spending the first day walking).
Yet, Y'gol's advice wasn’t completely off the mark. They were all still males, and things change when you are part of a civilized group. Sabin also had the benefit of being of another kin. So… There was still an option for a foul play. Not in an openly deceiving one, but going around it will do the trick.
How you ask?
Simple.
While they may not lose their pants around a lady too quickly, they will not refuse the hunt which they cherished so much. If she presented herself as a weaker individual she would be able to play on the greatest desire of most of the elven race, which is toying with war loot.
There were marks of people around. Empty bottles, foot prints, shattered arrows, skulls of animals and some coins.
They were nearby.
She continued to walk further and further into the forest. As Y'gol said, there were indeed hardly any games around. Aside of soft echoes of birds' screeches, and water creatures, she found no traces of animals.
Soon though, she felt other presences around her. Not beasts, but humanoid. They followed her movements from cover. She found them at last.
Heeding the advice of the Ogre she removed her gear, hiding her armor and weapons not far, looking like a small humble target, wearing only a light gown, which color nearly blend with her skin tune and a cap hiding her hair and face.
TWTANG
Someone was pulling a string.
She halted.
"AITZRI MIIAD!", called a voice behind her and she obeyed the command which called her to stop.
They soon leaped from behind her, while some remained closed by the nearest tree husks. She could sense them all, even those hidden.
"Well, well, well", someone paced behind her taking a full circle before approaching her, "What do we have here?", his voice was unpleasant: Rough and edgy, rolling with the syllable. He had many scars on his face and neck, and one his ears was missing the "edge" and had a horrible nasty burn craves around it. He had simple cloths under an armor which was composed from many sets from different countries and places, making the set look like an ugly blanket patched from stitches from different materials. He still walked proudly while wearing them, probably small tokens he took from all the men he fought with. She had to suppress a chuckle as she recalled of Y'gol and his fingers necklace. What was it with wild men and their accessories of "trophies"?
He lifted his head to both sides and before long four archers were around her, pointing bolts to her neck, a gesture to threaten her to not try anything funny.
Sabin was unbothered by this, but played her part perfectly.
The elf then moved closer and removed her cape, grabbing her chin in his hand and lifting her head to meet his eyes, "Dark one huh?", he said while scanning her, "What are you doing here?"
Sabin narrowed her eyes, "You know of my kin", she said softly, "I cannot reveal my mission to you".
"Hump", he said as a grin curved on his lips, "Yes. We know of you. Filthy kin, giving us pure elves such a bad reputation, because of you they think they can just do as they please with us. I'll ask you again, what are you doing here?"
Sabin moved her head away, freeing herself from his grip.
The elves were itchy to shoot but the elf simply nodded his head, urging them to relax, "Cheeky, are you not? I'm curious, dark one. You are not armed, but it can't be a coincidence… Someone could have sent you here… But who, I wonder? There are just too many options sadly…"
She stayed silent.
'Hmmm. Of course, it could be that we are simply hindering another mission of yours. One that will not require armor… or maybe cloths?", he laughed and the other laughed with him.
Sabin did not bite back.
"Ah, you are not fun", he nodded with displeasure, "Very well. Since I cannot be sure of your deeds here, you will simply have to come with us, follow me".
"But Yaorlan!", said one of the archers, "Shouldn't we bound her first?"
"Fool", said the elf, his maimed ear twitching, "A dark kin here? above ground? And she just so happen to walk here careless with no weapon and armor? If she struggled she should have done it by now", he looked at Sabin with a grin, "But truth be told, your kin would not be that careless to be captive like this in such manner… unless you wanted to be..."
Shit. Sabin didn't expect her act of poor wondering soul to work greatly, but it looked like the elf was more familiar with the dark elves than what she expected any of the group members to be.
He grinned again and as if reading her mind he added, "You will follow, aye?"
Sabin swallowed and nodded.
"Good, now start marching, all of you".
She started to walk after them, and after the sun reach the boarder in the horizon the group finally reached their destination, a wooden building of sort, clumsy and lacking style. But it was sturdy, capable of holding a good siege, and had high position of arrow shooting. They were prepared for, or preparing for something big.
"Come", said Yaorlan, "There is someone you need to meet. Maybe they will make you sing"
SikstaSlathalin
11-04-2017, 06:38 PM
Two Elves moved ahead of Sabin and pushed the gates of the stocky fort open. Inside Y'gol's prediction of the amount of occupants stayed strong. The Elves leading her into the fort were the only residents aside from the group's Hart mounts. Five tall gold colored Harts were tethered around a bale of hay and two metal tubs of water.
They were very beautiful creatures, but they looked weary and paranoid like their riders. It was very telling for the overall state of mind for the Elves. Either the Ogre really had them rattled which considering Y'gol's past could be possible or there was something more to their presence here.
Sabin was led to the only building within the walls. A medium sized two-story barracks made of dull colored stones and rough-hewn logs. The signs of habitation and quick repairs showed the Dark Elf that the Archers had probably been here much longer than the Carnivore let on.
The group continued to lead Sabin across the yard and right through the door of the barracks. Once inside the building Sabin could see that the men all seemed to be living only on the first floor piles of food were stacked in the two supply rooms along the back wall, the cots were grouped around the meager firepit they dug, and the rest of their effects were stacked inside the fort's small armory set back in the western wall. This was odd considering they had two floors and aside from the Scarred one there was no sign of any kind of leader. But considering the way the other men spoke to him he was only a Sergeant or something and groups like this never go out without a Captain or Lieutenant at the helm.
So where was their real leader? Well that question was answered when all the men but Yaorlan and another Elf this one a giant with almost white skin and aside from his bow he also carried a long dirk that was strapped to his thigh. The giant placed a heavy hand upon Sabin's shoulder and held her in place while Yaorlan walked up the steps to the second floor and knocked on the dark door which was covered in glowing runes. He paused for a few seconds then the muffled sound of a woman's voice called out and he opened the door and stepping into the darkness before the door swung shut on it's own. The giant and Sabin stood in silence while the sounds of muffled discussion could be heard through the door. A minute or so later Yaorlan opened the door and stood half-way out side motioning for Sabin to enter. The giant let her go with a quick shove then Yaorlan clicked his tongue and admitted the Dark Elf into the room that stunk of incense. Once Sabin was in the Sergeant stepped fully out of the room and closed the door behind him.
Now Sabin was standing alone in the dark room the odor of incense was nearly overwhelming and as the air settled around her another smell crept it's way into her nose. The sickly sweet smell of death and decay. A few minutes passed before a low sultry woman's voice echoed through the unnatural dark. "My Goddess, the famous Sabin Togar." Sabin suddenly feels a presence in front of her and feels a soft pair of lips against her own and a hand dance across her lower back and rump. They lingered for a handful of seconds before the presence whisks away and torchlight suddenly erupts around the room and a High Elf woman (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=17&p=2736075&viewfull=1#post2736075) is seen seated at a large square table. Denika Lestaff was wearing her usual uniform of trousers, boots, and sleeveless tunic. But in her bare delicate hand was a small dancing fireball. She smiled at Sabin looking the other woman up and down.
"Well, well, I must say I love the new look Sabi, but still far too much clothing for my liking." She closed her hand snuffing out the fireball.
Sabin smiled softly, "My dear friend", she bowed her head as she moved closer to the woman.
Denika was beautiful. Even by elven standards, she was considered to be unnatural in her charm and physical appearances. With such clean visage of purity and alluring voice, Sabin found out all too quickly that Denika was the kind of lady to get what she wanted, no matter how much the odds were against her.
There were so many tales about married husband leaving their partner to pursue her, and win some affection, no matter how small. She was always surrounded by circles of males, who were willing to do their bidding, like bees around their queen, buzzing in a hive.
They said she gave her heart to no one, but Sabin was one of the few to know it was not so. Denika simply had a particular set of interests, and rarely swayed from it. Gender meant little for her, for she would have let her love go for whoever she deemed worthy, and often she chased after her heart's objects with much determination that she would rarely lose.
Sabin, was a different case though. She could stand her ground, and… well… simply didn't sway that way… Sabin did played along though, but not completely, keeping her chastity on the matter, which only increased Denika's passion. But Denika didn't push too much, as she enjoyed the game far more than the goal. Teasing Sabin was something she enjoyed a lot.
Sabin on the other hand treated her with respect, not outright rejecting her, and honoring her as much as possible.
Sabin walked around the room, gazing carefully. She didn't expect to find Denika here. This was making things all the more complicated, "Denika… Why this fortress here?… And your men are all armed, have you plans for war, friend?"
It was no secret that Denika had unsettled grudge against the Orc. Sabin sighed slowly, "Denika, friend, why are you here, so far away from home? And the elves that are with you, why have they followed?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-11-2017, 08:16 PM
Denika licked her lips slowly as she and Sabin continued the dance they had dozens of times before. The Mage loved a challenge and despite the race of Dark Elves being famously promiscuous Sabin is of a more prudish demeanor. She was a forbidden fruit of sorts and Denika always loved fruit. As the stiff woman spoke trying to go right for the truth of their mission, Captain Lestaff felt the twinge of a smirk crease her lips.
That's what she gets for sharing a few drinks with Sabin. Says more than is needed, but she'd been admonished more times than one for pursuing an agenda. And despite the loyalty of her men she knew they would tell the Lady General if it was heard she was here hunting down some dumb beast who ate someone he shouldn't have.
As Sabin finished Denika let out a light ringing chuckle standing up from her seat and sauntering over to her small liquor locker. She wouldn't drink much, but keeping things as natural as possible would be key. Opening the small gray cabinet she pulled out a blue colored bottle, it glowed softly in the dim firelight. She poured a couple of glasses and placed one on the table nearest Sabin and took one for herself before returning to her chair. She unbuttoned the top three buttons to her tunic exposing the top curves of her breasts which she gently scratched before sitting down.
"Now, now Sabi. We haven't seen each other in years and the first thing you ask is the nature of my mission. Come catch up and have drink with me first, it's a fine vintage of Ban-dia Ghealach. Moon Goddess in the common tongue. I hear it's a favorite of your people." Denika gave a feline smile and leaned back in her chair her chest bouncing a little as she moved. It would be enough to distract her underlings or a random visitor, but the trick with Sabin is to slowly chip away at her almost unflinching professionalism.
Sabin followed the elf, as if bracing unheard tune of a flute. And oh boy, how well did Denika played.
The rules of hospitalities; Say what you want about dark ones, they were forbidden to act impolite, and the elven woman knew exactly which strings to pull.
The soft gestures did not go unnoticed, and sabin smirked to herself; were she a man, or had such desires and tendencies for women, would she had fallen for her by now, captured by her charm? Since, regardless, if she was not one to go for ladies, it was hard to resist this alluring woman, even if any attraction she felt was only platonic.
Denika was dawdling (in both senses of the word), but Sabin knew it was not the case. The elf leader was actually getting serious; the soft gestures, the drink, the undressing. She was clearly putting all her cards on the table; Maybe to buy time, maybe to gain something?
Sabin knew this was the case, as Denika didn't straight out attack her for asking those questions, or wondering what she was doing in the area to begin with, and armless not the less.
"Sounds lovely, Denika", Sabin said slowly, "Pour me, if you please?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-11-2017, 09:12 PM
Denika smiled gently feeling the warmth of the wine flow down her throat and gather in the bottom of her stomach. Standing back up she nodded and poured the dark red colored wine into the glass then walked slowly over to Sabin leaning down a little so the woman could see her cleavage before handing her the glass. She knew Sabin said she doesn't like women, but Denika has brought caste Priestesses into her bed before so she knew everyone had their reservations about playing all sides of the field.
Once she handed over the glass she slowly walked back to her chair making sure her hips swayed with each step. She took another sip of her own drink and motioned for Sabin to take the seat across from her before she sat back down sliding down in her seat a little taking a more relaxed pose as she waited for the Dark Elf to join her. Her keen military mind began rolling over topics of conversation. She wasn't one of the Elf Queen's Spy Masters or Scouts, but she had friends and lovers on both branches and you hear things from time to time. She heard about Sabin's mother dying recently, but that wasn't a subject you open with. The female Mer was usually very discreet about her fulfilled contracts, but once again you hear things.
After a few more seconds she stumbled upon a simple topic, one that will open up more paths of discussion. "So Sabi, the last time I saw you. You were hunting down a rouge Vampire with that tall handsome human man, what was his name?" She tapped her delicately pointed chin with a thin tapered fingers as she tried to recall the man's name. "Orfiel? I think? Hmm quite the broad pair of shoulders on that one. Did you two manage to catch the creature?"
Sabin title the glass in her hand, not stopping to lock gazes with the lovely woman before her, she allowed herself to lean back in her sit, allowing her the fabric to stick to her figure. Maybe it was the wine, or maybe it was the situation which turned a bit more friend. If Denika was about to play, Sabin wanted to stretch the lines some more.
And besides, you can't unlock answers without the desire to soak in a conversation.
"Your intel sharp as ever, dear friend", Sabin said, brining the cup closer to her lips. Despite taking few sips, Sabin was careful to not drink too much, and make sure it only looked like she was drinking mouthful. She needed to remain in control.
"Yes… Orfiel…", she smiled softly.
The two were able to hunt the being down after few months together. The journey itself was joyful and eventful, and Sabin was able to explore more of the human in more than one ways…
But truth be told, what excited her more about this task, was actually the vampire itself, who Sabin had met on few occasions before. Luckily Orfiel didn't catch on that.
And Sabin did help the vampire escape later... They part ways soon after, true, but not before experiencing a lovely night together… But it was better to leave that part unsaid.
"We sure did…", Sabin paused for a moment. Was Denika leading her away from her question, or was she hinting for something, "You know how it is when you caught in the heat of the chase…"
SikstaSlathalin
11-11-2017, 10:25 PM
Denika smiled knowingly sipping her wine some more. In the heat of the moment affairs have always been her favorite type of moments. The adrenaline, the thrill of death being inches away, and the game of chase coming to an exciting conclusion. "Oh yes, some of the best things in life happen in the heat of the chase." She crossed her legs maintaining the comfortable posture in her chair. "What was the payout for that? 200 sovereign? I don't dip into the Bounty Hunting business much myself, I've got a state job to keep me fed." She smiled motioning around at the fortress. "But that seems a little low for a Vampire, I've fought against a couple in my time they can be quite formidable. Even with magic."
She smiled summoning another little fireball to her hand and bouncing it up and down like a ball before she closed her hand returning the fire to nothingness. Looking away from Sabin she swirled her drink around her glass for a few seconds deciding where to go next with the discussion. "So how did you and the Priest manage it? Drowned him in holy water? Or maybe just a quick stake through the heart? The last one I fought repelled six of my own men before I managed to immolate her flesh from her bones." She took another sip of her drink going back to watching Sabin.
Yes. It was indeed too little.
It had a lot to do with the fact that no real evidences were linked to the case for which the order was issued, and that Orfiel had issued the task himself and it was the most he could spare for it.
Sabin had no real reason to take the mission, but she knew for sure that the vampire in question was not involved in the case and was framed, mistaken for another. When she was able to hint it to the vampire after a long hunt, capturing him alive became easier.
With the promise that he will be moved into a guarded cell if his life was spared, Orfiel left the case be, which enabled Sabin to free the vampire with ease and fake his death soon after.
But truth be told, Sabin was sure the real culprit was going to appear one day or another, and she hoped it won't be Orfiel alone to handle the case when the situation will arise again.
"Well, evidences clearly show it was not the right man. Orfiel was settled with locking him away, but he died in his cell. We suspect there might have been silver in his cup. Regardless, as more similar cases appear while he was still locked, Orfiel was convinced he was not our man…"
Sabin turned to look at the Elf, "How rude of me, friend, I have not ask about you. How have you been faring?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-12-2017, 12:50 AM
Denika finished her glass of wine placing it on the table in front of her adjusting her body posture again opening the front of her shirt a little more and fanning it. Wine always warms her up like little else, she could feel her cheeks and neck reddened and she made herself sway gently as if more drunk than she let on.
Standing slowly up she moved to the window of her chamber and threw it open letting the cool wind and moonlight rush into the room. The torches flickered and a couple of them went out, they cast the room into a dimly lit twilight the flames complementing the moonlight and the sudden cold did wonders for Denika's objective becasue her nipples grew hard in the air poking out from under her tunic a little. The Mage let out an almost pleased sound as the air rushed over her body sending a slight chill through her lithe frame.
"Hmm hope your employer wasn't too cross with you two over that. I know what an annoyance it can be to have a valuable prisoner die before their intended time." She smiled a little devilishly before walking back to her chair and setting herself down in it again. "But I am glad things turned out well enough in the end. As for me, as you can tell I'm in the employ of her regal Majesty Isalina Brightcloth of the great Elven land of Avelar." She rolled that off her tongue in a mechanical manner as if making small talk with a visiting dignitary. "Worked my way up the Battle Mage ranks until I earned a commission and now here I am. We've had our share of military victories, but we're more a strike team than a infantry group." She locked eyes with Sabin placing her hands over her stomach. "Have you had contact with that handsome Priest recently?"
Sabin smiled, "You are asking a lot of him, do you fancy him?", a chuckle followed, "Although I won't fault you. He is a charmer… When he isn't obsessed with going after something that is…", Sabin rolled her eyes.
She moved slowly for the window, enjoying the breeze and hiding the fact her cup of wine was almost untouched, "Sadly no. I haven't heard from him in some time. Which is to be expected, I suppose. Him being a priest, and me… well… being me…"
Sabin already felt bad about spending so much time with the man. He was a pleasure for sure, but she often wondered how close to him was she really allowed to be, for he was a holy man, and needing to attend for certain services and religion, something that her clan knew nothing of and cared little for.
"I just hope he is okay... and happy..."
Even being around him felt like she was making him stray from the path he believed in.
Sabin leaned in, "You certainly rose in ranks...".
Sabin considered everything said by the elf. Her unit was offensive, and yet here they were, preparing for great siege, or so… and so far away from any warring country… something didn't add up...
They clearly being here for some time now.
Sabin had to play her tricks accordingly, as the elf was certainly, even if she didn't look like it, was on her guard.
Sabin moved behind the elf, carefully placing her hands on her shoulders, "Who are you fighting with?", she asked slowly, with a low, gentle tune, "I'm sure her highness would want little to do with a farm town…"
SikstaSlathalin
11-12-2017, 01:34 AM
Denika rubbed her chin slowly reading a little between the lines of Sabin's words. The High Elf had an incline that there was more going on than just a Vampire hunting mission. She would keep that in mind for later. But for now she had to keep her wits about her Sabin was trying to probe again.
She didn't want to instantly go on the defensive because that would lock in the suspicion Denika knew Sabin had about her mission. With a soft nod the Mage smirked gently in a teasing manner. "Hmm me as well, there are so few fine men left in this world especially ones who have the skill to win a Dark Elf's affections." As Sabin came around and placed her hands on her shoulders, she didn't tense up, but her head looked back at Sabin another slight smirk on her lips. "Hmm such strength, but still so soft and delicate." She smiled bringing her own hand up to stroke Sabin's flesh gently before she stood up with the Dark One looking into her eyes. She still couldn't give away her true intent, but she was quick witted and had a lie ready.
"Well I really shouldn't say but..." She learned in cupping Sabin's face before whispering gently into the other woman's ear. "Can you keep a secret Sabi?" She asked her hot breath slipping into Sabin's sensitive ear.
It felt like a chess game.
Move a pawn here, lose a bishop there.
And now confronting the queen.
The situation the two women were in, was so tight and tense that any small slip would have given away the bluff. But it was so easy to let go and just move according to the music chanted by this high elf lady.
They were both locked in intimate position, with Denika pushing for the take.
"I have to be soft", Sabin teased, "Unlike those with hides, our bodies are rather easy to break… I need to be a little careful with you".
And around you, Sabin wanted to add.
She felt the woman's touch moving around her body with such ease, and the hot air in her ear, almost made her go crazy, "I can keep a secret, dear friend…", she waited a little for the words to sink in.
She needed to lure this fish to talk, "For a price…".
SikstaSlathalin
11-14-2017, 12:34 AM
Denika giggled giving the Dark Elf a single kiss on the cheek before walking away to pour herself a glass of water. She reached into her little cabinet and pulled out a tall bottle of the clear liquid filling her wine glass with it the leftover spirit reddening the water a little. She was talking her time trying to decide how to handle Sabin's tease.
Even with an old friend Dark Elves are opportunistic like that. Never give anything for nothing, but Denika knew this game too. And it gave her the chance to steer this conversation, just as long as she didn't slip up in her lie. The woman finished pouring her glass of water and sipped it slowly turning back to face Sabin as she learned against the edge of the table.
"Hmm always about the payday huh? Knew I liked you for some reason. But this is a good secret, state secret level." She crossed an arm under her chest popping her breasts up a little as she continued to sip her water watching Sabin closely. "How about a trade? Something I know for something you know?" This would be a gamble, but maybe she could get information on her objective.
Denika seemed to be in a very playful mood. As expected, she enjoyed this game far more than she gave her credit for.
Sabin smirked as she considered her words, slowly moving around the table, "Dear friend", she started to say, "But what kind of information could I possibly have, that have yet to reach you?", flattery was the key here. Denika enjoyed good words on her abilities far more than she enjoyed simple words admiring her look.
"State matters are delicate… and very expensive secrets… What would be a good trade for them I wonder…"
SikstaSlathalin
11-14-2017, 01:27 AM
Denika had to suppress her pleased grin. It has been so long since she's had a worthy opponent for this game. As beautiful as Sabin is Denika was very grateful the Dark One had a good head on her shoulders and it was very hard to trip her up.
The High Elf sipped her water water swishing the pink colored liquid around the glass slowly.
"Well because we're friends I'll make you deal. My men and I need some regional knowledge, this region isn't very happy with us High Elves nor our Queen. Because of that it's a little hard to talk with the locals for information. But being a Dark Elf you might have better luck, I assume you'll wind up in Sāmhach eventually. If you agree to gather some intel for me I'll be glad to tell you my secret." Denika smiled she could almost see checkmate before her.
Y'gol gave her three days to do this and the first day was already drawing to an end.
Whatever Sabin will say right now, it won't matter, Denika was closing in on her… Whatever "trade" she wanted to do was only a jest, there was no way Denika would have let her leave with state secret, no matter if Sabin intended to keep the promise or not.
Refusing the request will be odd outcome too, after coming this far.
Well, however Denika was planning to lock her up, it was at least better to hear the terms. After all, she never said "When" she expected the information will be gathered for her, and she never said if she wanted those secrets first…
"Very well", Sabin said, "If the coming turns of events will enable me to go for the farmland of Sāmhach, I will gather the information for you, starting three days from now…", Sabin smiled, "Now, before you tell your guards to storm at me, yes I've heard their steps for some time now, I will truly be honor to hear said secret…"
Y'gol gave her three days to do this and the first day was already drawing to an end.
Whatever Sabin will say right now, it won't matter, Denika was closing in on her
Whatever "trade" she wanted to do was only a jest, there was no way Denika would have let her leave with state secret, no matter if Sabin intended to keep the promise or not.
Refusing the request will be odd outcome too, after coming this far.
Well, however Denika was planning to lock her up, it was at least better to hear the terms. After all, she never said "When" she expected the information will be gathered for her, and she never said if she wanted those secrets first
"Very well", Sabin said, "If the coming turns of events will enable me to go for the farmland of Sāmhach, I will gather the information for you, starting three days from now
", Sabin smiled, "Now, before you tell your guards to storm at me, yes I've heard their steps for some time now, I will truly be honor to hear said secret
"
SikstaSlathalin
11-14-2017, 03:04 AM
Denika let out a genuinely amused laugh. So the famous paranoia of the Dark Elves shows it's head again. The woman shook her head. "None of that I assure you, the Queen gave me leave to recruit any mercenaries I could need. So this is just your mission briefing if you will. But I can't give you three days for it, one maybe two at the most I must give the Lady General a daily report. And she won't be happy with delays."
She finished her cup of water and put the glass down wiping moisture from her hands. "As for my men, it is getting late so they're just coming for the nightly watch list. But they won't enter without my consent so you're safe I assure you Sabi." She smiled looking up at the clock on her wall it read past midnight. "Now as for the secret, my Queen wants my unit to discover the location of a rebel cell of Orcs that have been terrorizing our northern settlement for some time. Sāmhach is full sympathizers for those brutish creatures so she thinks they'll have information on this cell. So Sabi can you do it?" Denika smiled sauntering across the room towards Sabin.
"Wait, Denika", Sabin said slowly, "Something doesn't add up. You said that you need intel on something regarding the town of Sāmhach, and now you hold the orcs in one breath with rebellion and religious cult... You know they are far from either of those clans... And as aggressive as the Orcs are, they are proud creatures. If rumors about such activities were true, we would have known about something like that by now..."
For the first time since entering this chamber, the possibility that Denika may lie to her become possibility. She knew she hide something, but this...
"You stock on pile of food, as though you already preparing for war, but if you are only investigating for now... Denika, what's going on here, why are you trying to send me away?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-15-2017, 01:35 AM
Denika let out a sigh feeling a wonderful breeze cross the room was wrap her in it's cool embrace. She enjoyed the game, but sometimes it did get annoying. And it told Denika her gamble had failed so now she needed to push a little harder.
"Do you so easily forget the Orcish Rebellions of the past? They are zealous tribals Sabin, and my Queen has discovered a pattern in these dirty little uprisings. They gather support in small towns then slowly their transgressions grow bolder and bolder until they begin the threaten the realms at large. Queen Isalina wishes to nip this rebellion in the bud before it starts."
As for the stockpile, we do not know how long this reconnaissance will take and as I said before we High Elves aren't very welcome in these parts so that limits our shopping options as you can imagine." She giggles softly as a knock comes to her door. The Mage looks up and gives a quick shout. "Enter" And no sooner did she speak the words than her Sergeant Yaorlan pushed open the door followed by the pale giant again. Denika walked to her small field desk and pulled a crisp piece of off-white parchment and handed it to the scarred man. "There you are Sergeant, my apoligies Galmied but it is your turn for first watch." She smiled at the pale giant who simply nodded letting out a slight grunt of affirmation. The two men saluted their Captain before exiting, Denika watched them go hmming softly to herself.
She turned back to Sabin shrugging softly at her last comment. "I wasn't trying to send you away, but we're both on a little bit of a tight schedule. The Lady General gets quite irate when the reports are late. Surely you'll want to get into town and secure a room in the inn before it gets too late no?" She asked innocently looking Sabin in the eyes.
What's with people telling her what to do?
First Y'gol, now Denika…
Sure, she was dark elf but…
Yeah, that probably the reason…
Oh well, might as well just go with it. Obviously Sabin wasn't buying into this, but since she couldn't have formed her opinion yet, it was probably better to head direction to Sāmhach. One of them, the Ogre or the Elf was lying, and she wanted to see first hand, who was at fault. Plus, being at the town will enable Sabin to take matters into hands and protect it should it comes to the beast charging it.
And if there are indeed Orcs in town, they might be convinced to help her battle the Ogre should push comes to shove.
"How much will you pay?", Sabin asked. Hoping she will not get another brilliant ideas about how to dress while approaching the town.
"Wait, what?", Yaorlan twisted his torn ear with anger, "You'll just let her walk away? My lady, she is clearly here for something!"
"I know the ear must be hurting, but I can't believe her order has escaped you", Sabin tossed her words at him with anger, "You didn't come across as deaf"
"Cheeky… You didn't come across as so chatty, see, told you our leader will make you sing!"
"Tsk!", Sabin said, ignoring him, "So, again, how much?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-18-2017, 10:19 PM
Denika waved her hand to silence her Sergeant and gave Sabin an apologetic smile. "Like I said Sabin, you get me information I'll give you information. I have much which can help you in whatever reason you have for being this far from your home." The High Elf had an idea what it might be, but she wasn't ready to show that hand yet. She waved the men away again then followed and closed the door on them. "I apologize, like all men he's a bit hard-headed and lacking a good deal in bed." She let out a cheeky smirk then walked to the wine tapping the glass gently with her finger.
"I had hoped the prospect of potentially crippling secrets would be enough for you dear Sabi, but if you need something more tangible how about the rest of this wine. Or maybe you can have one of my men for the night?" She giggled at the idea. "Most of them aren't anything special, but they'll keep you warm tonight. But the big, pale, one? Galmied, he's one of those exotic Snow Elves from far to the North. His people spend many long months in total darkness with just each other for company." She licks her lips slowly dragging her nails down the bare flesh of her chest. "It has given them a...very...admirable endurance and an...intimate knowledge of...anatomy." She smiled studying Sabin with a slight redness to her cheeks at the memory. "So what is your choice Sabi?"
Sabin should have said no. She should have Probably just ignored this ridiculous suggestion outright and simply set off to sleep alone in order to make herself ready for the quest set by the female elf.
But wouldn't putting down this exotic offer such a huge waste... Literally...
Besides, refusing this offer down would have just outright made Denika realize that Sabin did not trust her at all at the moment.
She went for the door and looked through it. There were so many males and so many of them were appealing, but like the high elf said, the ice elf was very special...
She then spotted Yaorlan and exchanged gazes with him. To be honest the idea of overtaking this cheeky elf with her tonight by force was appealing, just to make him more angry and uncomfortableand to give him a small payback for teasing her.
Obviously he noticed her gaze, and could read there were bad intention coming from her direction. She noticed how both his torn and his healthy ears began to twitch.
He knew something was off...
"Hmm", Sabin hummed softly.
Still considering, she decided against the idea of abusing Yaorlan. She knew she would probably not enjoy him enough and that it may be impossible to get him to talk to her, as he seemed to not being exactly trusting.
"Galmied", she said after a long pause, "Show me my room if you will, and if you wish to accompany more of my hours", she watched the grin of Denika expend and Sabin added quickly, "Only if you will it, then please stay with me tonight, otherwise, leave me there, as I will need a good resting", she nodded.
She decided to leave out the part where Denika told her she could sleep with him, as she didn't wish him to know how she treated him like a meat.
"Good night to you, friend", she told Denika as she turned to leave, not before smirking at Yaorlan. The last seemed somewhat pissed.
Good. She thought to herself.
Angry men can do a lot of mistakes.
SikstaSlathalin
11-21-2017, 10:09 PM
Galmied (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=32&p=2948782&viewfull=1#post2948782) nodded to Sabin motioning for her to follow him outside, the barracks had no private rooms aside from the Captain's quarters. So the only place that could qualify as a private place is the old gate house. It was small and smelled like a wet forest, but it would keep the rain out and it had a small fireplace they could use to keep warm.
He had first watch anyway and this was where he was supposed to go. Each shift was about four hours apiece throughout the night and Sabin could stay locked in the small bedroom when his shift ended or maybe he'd just talk the next sentry into letting him take the whole night and just keep checking the ramparts every hour or so. Grabbing his armor, claymore, and a quiver of arrows he grunted for Sabin to follow once more before shoving open the barracks door and walking out into the cool clear night.
He let out a deep sigh looking up at the moon with a longing before his giant strides began taking him across the yard, past the Hart stalls, and to the small door that looked to be in need of a paint job. He glanced back once grunting gently at Sabin.
"Come on in please." His voice, little more than a rasp listed sadly to the woman's ears. He gripped the handle and put his meaty shoulder into the door forcing it open and vanishing into the dark interior of the gate house.
Once they walked some distance, and made sure no one listened (there were still some elves around, but most of them appeared distracted to bother and eavesdrop), Sabin said slowly, "Forgive me for bothering you with said task", it did not escaped her that he was not pleased. But he was surely not as vocal about it as Yaorlan.
He moved around like a shell. Something in him long ceased to live, and only a weak fire lingered and burnt within him.
There was hidden passion when he gazed at the moon, before he showed her the way in.
"I have never seen your kin before, only read about them from reports, and even they were so briefly detailed... I can tell you are far from home...", she said slowly, "Probably very far?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-22-2017, 12:35 AM
Long ago the Snow Elf had given up on being spoken to in a civil manner. In fact he was so sure this woman would just be another bothersome interruption he was already ignoring her and just wanting to get this over with so he could get on with his enslavement. He had tossed his armor and weapons into a dusty old chair and was crouched before the fire place stacking wood and preparing to build a fire before Sabin even entered the gate house.
So when she actually spoke to him instead of barking orders or berating him the giant was struck dumb a log in one hand and a burning match in the other. He stayed that way for a few seconds trying to decide if she was playing some game or if she actually cared. And it wasn't until he felt the sharp pain of the match burning his fingertips that he snapped back with a grunt of surprise dropping the log and tossing the black match into the logpile.
He turning back to look at the Dark Elf his eyes still unfocused as if he hadn't heard her at all. But in a slightly louder voice he answered her matter-of-factually turning back to getting the fire ready. His voice while mostly flat held onto the sadness in his eyes and overall defeated posture.
"Aye, very far. The Snow Elf province o' Stormgard along the coast o' the Glacial Sea." Some women liked the appearance of an emotional connection through small talk, so he would play along for now. He would let her speak and like he has been taught only speak when spoken too, until then he went back to focusing on building the fire. Once it was lit it wouldn't talk long before this little building was very toasty.
Sabin held herself from chuckling. He seemed to be taken aback by something, which made him totally drop his guards for a moment, long enough to almost burn himself.
Obviously, she didn't giggle at his unfortunate situation, but because she found it to be rather charming.
Did she made him nervous somehow.
"That indeed sounds far", she looked at the fire with hungry eyes. She always liked staring atflames and strong light sources. Her eyes were very used to the dark that glowing flames were always something she found fascinating and alien.
She looked around the room and as she scanned it she considered how to arrange her bed, "Why are you so far out here, if you don't mind me asking? Was your hometown not to your liking that you left?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-22-2017, 01:07 AM
The pale giant realizes she didn't mean to stab right into the heart of what he hated the most to think about. But with a masterful control of will he let no sign of it show aside from a tensing of the shoulders which could be disguised as him simply getting a stiff back. She was just another Jane foisted onto him by his mistress Denika for her perverse amusement, but at least he wouldn't have to worry about the Captain stealing him out of his bed in the middle of the night because she couldn't sleep alone.
Still as he stared into the infant fire he found himself falling backwards into a most painful past. Where a misunderstanding led to destroying everything he once held dear even his own name. He blew a few deep breaths into the fireplace and brought the blaze to a healthy adolescence before he tossed four more logs into the flame to bring it to adulthood.
As the fire took on a life of it's own the big Mer placed the firescreen before the flames and stood up. He looked around as the flames lit up the small room showing both of their features clearly. He turned to the woman for the first time looking at her with clear eyes. He has never been owned by a Dark Elf, he knew some of their culture which told of their disdain for removing free will and freedom of choice from another living being. He respected that about them, but in the end it didn't matter because he was put in this room with her on the whim of Captain Lestaff. Sabin gave him a choice, but he knew it didn't matter what he chose because the outcome would always be the same.
He was meat...a toy to be used and cast aside at the will and whimsy of his owner. He wished to tell her it's none of her business, but talking back to the Janes never ends well for him so he simply shook his head and began unbuttoning his jerkin walking towards the small spiraling staircase that would lead to the bedroom on the second floor. The bed was big enough for two so it told him whoever owned this fort before them most likely entertained their soldiers in a similar way. He quickly pulled the jerkin off and hung it on the railing. It gave Sabin a clear shot of his broad gray back and told the man's tale for her in graphic detail. All along Gelmied's back were old brands of Masters and Mistresses and countless scars and burns from the times he remembered his voice. The most recent was Denika's symbol, twin lightning bolts which still looked as angry as the day she stuck the red hot iron to his skin. This was her witchcraft at work and the constant throb worked to tell Gelmied who he would always belong to. He cared not at this point, it was his life all he could hope for is a swift death in their next conflict.
Looking back at Sabin he began to undo the long braids in his hair.
"No, it did not. This way please." His voiced once again held that hint of pain, but his face was hidden behind his long white lock as he ascended the stairs.
Sabin scanned his back and it told her more than she wished to know.
There were thoughts of disgust and pity mixed with sorrow.
whatever desires she held have vanished right there and then.
She stood firmly and barked with rage, "wait!".
She was angry. very angry. No one said anything sbout slaves and she didn't have the mind to ask. She was always a little naiive... she hated herself so much now.
"Where do you think you are going?"
She never even hoped for him to just submit so quickly... she wanted him to choose... she didn't want it like that...
"I don't wish for it... not like that anyway...", she sway softly and turned to sit by the fire, "Did she bought you? ... when?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-22-2017, 01:34 AM
Once again caught off guard Gelmied let a look of confusion and concern cross his face before he remembered the other time he said something against Denika. He rubbed a dark indigo scar along his right arm, it still hurt a lot, but you learn to live with pain after awhile. Looking down at the floor he shook his head.
"No one has bought me, Captain Lestaff saved my life. And I chose to honor her with that mark." It was an obvious lie, but he couldn't risk dishonoring Denika again that last one that did wound up with a mutilated ear.
Still looking down the big Mer tried to put confidence into his voice.
"I chose to bring you here, no one made me. A warm body next to you is the best way to pass these cold northern nights." Another lie, but this one was also a mantra one of his former owners made him and her other "servants" whenever they were set to entertain someone. But it was obvious she did not wish to have sex with him at least not yet, this could all still be part of a game for the Dark One. "If you do not wish to join me what is your wish Ms. Togar?" He attempted a smile, but to failed to fill his eyes.
Sabin was almost tricked....
Almost.
She stood by the fire and closed her eyes replaying the whole scene in her head.
His voice... was so confident... but his eyes and expression were not.
And that smile was far from happiness as dawn from noon.
"What I want you cannot give, for reasons that I don't understand...", she said slowly, "What I want is the truth... and if you cannot give me answers that are honest to yourself and to what I ask... then I will require you to leave"
Sabin could feel how his hopelessness was getting to her, in ways where she began to give up. It also hurt knowing there were probably nothing she could do to help him. Not without knowing the situation anyway... and he was held back from speaking.
If it was so... then it was best to let him be. She would not add pain to him.
It was the only act of mercy she could do for him tonight
SikstaSlathalin
11-22-2017, 02:16 AM
Gelmied let out a deep sigh and sunk down to the steps placing his head in his hand. This woman seemed too earnest and genuine to be playing some sick fetish game with him. It was almost enough to make him weep, but he couldn't just leave. They haven't even been in the gatehouse five minutes, if he left Denika would know something went wrong and it would likely result in pain for him and possible imprisonment for the woman.
After a few long seconds the big man looked up his clear eyes once again as he studied the woman more closely. She was indeed pretty and it seemed she almost cared, that was a very novel idea for someone who has been a slave for most of his adult life. But he was in quite the predicament, this is where was is supposed to go for Sentry duty, but it was obvious the woman wished for him to leave which he couldn't do without Denika finding out about it. He could just stay on the ramparts while she got the gate house to herself, but then the next shift would show up and likely give away the ruse.
He blinked slowly a few times, then stood and went to kneel in front of the fire his back facing Sabin. "I cannae leave, nae without earning the Captain's wrath. And for someone like me tae dishonor his..."savior" is akin tae blasphemy Ms. Togar." Savoir was said with the same false confidence as he used before. "But my shift doesnae start for a couple o' hours, sae maybe ye can help me instead. In the quiver is a small white bottle. It is an ointment to ward off infection and help with pain, can ye please apply it tae the Captain's seal? Healthy globs and rub it slowly over the whole area." He pulled his hair away from the mark showing Sabin just how bad the still hot and bleeding brand was. "I will answer what questions I can I just cannae disrespect the Captain...or the mark will burn deeper into my flesh." The mark was already two inches into the man's broad back soon it would burn right through the skin and into the muscle.
Sabin opened her mouth few times and closed it without uttering a word.
she simply nodded as she went to fetch the ointment. once she found it, per Gelmied's instruction, she opened the lid and dipped two fingers inside the moisture cream.
She slowly rubbed her hand on his back, on the location of the mark, making sure to not make any further movement.
Touching him made her feel like she was desecrating him. She wanted to make sure she didn't do anything without his approval.
"Is this enough? are you still in pain?"
She took few steps back, "I will ask questions then. But I will expect you to be honest. If you can't answer, or don't wish for them to have replies just tell me. I would rather you'd be honest... please?"
SikstaSlathalin
11-22-2017, 02:47 AM
Gelmied winched biting his lip as the ointment came into contact with his skin. It was like being dumped into icy water after sitting in an oven for a few hours. A searing pain followed by instant relief. He almost fainted from the sensation, but this wasn't a new thing to him. He's been applying the cream every night since he was branded and the sensation was always the same.
As she finished though the big man nodded turning partially to face her a small hint of relief on his face.
"The mark is magical in nature, I am always in pain from it, but the cream allows me tae have a full nights sleep sometimes." He gave a reassuring smile, this one more genuine as he tried to grin through the pain. With a sigh he motioned to the spot besides him brushing some dirt from the old rug. "I will answer as best as I can, but please sit besides me and make yourself comfortable...some questions take longer tae answer than others and ye may nae like the answers." The man turned so he would be facing Sabin when she joined him on the rug shifting himself into a more comfortable kneeling position his heavy shoulders slumping as if exhausted from the treatment.
"You are... remarkable...", Sabin said softly, "I don't think I would have been able to endure it... And you hide the pain so well..."
Sabin said nothing further. She didn't want to put ideas into his head, but she considered the option that Gelmied tried to take off his life before but failed. Maybe the brand was preventing this?
She wished she could have just dug her nails into his skin and remove it. Among the other elves, slavery was not a shunned issue as it was for her clans. The surface clans worked in a very different way regarding their cultures and way of life. Most of them were often at wars over territory. It is only with miracle of understanding that the dark elves were able to live with each other in peace, and it was not an easy task to do. The matriarchs had much obligation to keep trade and contacts with the other far away clans, and make sure everyone had shared opinions.
But at the end, mortal's nature is feeble... After all, her own mother was butchered for an ambition.
Was there really no way to avoid conflict?
Still, seeing this snow elf made Sabin see Denika in a very dark light. She didn't remember her friend to be meddling with such horrible methods of hiring. Come to think of it, were the other males around here slaves as well? Yaorlan sure did not appear as such, being very devoted and outright willing to battle, or maybe there was something else under the surface.
Sabin took his offer as she turned to sit beside him, hugging her knees to her body, and leaning her hands as she switched her gaze from him to the fire, "Forgive me. I had no idea of what was happening here. I never considered....", she bit her lips, "Denika is an old friend..."
Sabin shook her head, it was not an excuse. She had to know better. She felt like ever since setting foot in the upper land, that she herself had lost touch with her senses. She was being tricked by two powers at work and played like a puppet, like being tossed from one separated parent to another as a court case.
Speaking of which...
The snow elf said something about guarding, did he not?
"Denika mentioned you are on the lookout for orcs from the nearest town...", she considered her words, "Why do you need to guard the place if you are only scouting?"
Something didn't add up...
Obviously there had to be something HERE to be guarded at a spot so further away. Were the orcs closing on them? Or was the enemy was never the orcs to begin with...
Y'gol and Denika... Who between you lies or tells half truths... and why?
SikstaSlathalin
11-28-2017, 12:34 AM
Gelmied shrugged gently taking a deep breath.
"It's more we needed a place tae sleep. The town wouldnae let us stay in the local inn despite bein' willing tae pay over the askin' price. The Queen wanted us tae act on intel she received about a rebel cell in the area. That was two months ago." The big Elf sighed lightly rubbing his legs, the wind began to pick up to a shrill whine through the smallest cracks that existed in this old fort.
"But...I think there's more tae it than just scoutin'." He said more under his breath than to Sabin, feeling the familiar old burn begin to pulse through the brand.
"Hmm", Sabin lowered her legs and leaned on her hands as she slowly allowed herself to relax. He seemed rather talktive.... unless that mark forced him to tell lies.
"Why were you not welcomed at the inn?"
Sabin thought on the other detail. Two months. being here for such long time, without sending reports or brining new information... was their task to be done this way... or...
Was there truly any task at all?
"Who ordered this task? and what did you need to gather?"
She wanted to see if his answers matched with Denika's.
SikstaSlathalin
11-28-2017, 01:40 AM
Gelmied looked questioningly at her. He thought it was rather obvious, Elves aren't the most cuddly of races and they have a history of conquering as bad and as long as the Humans. That goes double for High Elves like the Captain and Queen Brightcloth. This is also contested territory between the King of the Ebonrock Dwarves and the Storm King of the Wind Runners.
Both factions have been fighting for the rights to these peaks for centuries. The Dwarves want to mine the rich gold and platinum veins and the Wind Runners view the mountains as sacred and don't want to see them desecrated by the smelly little people. Neither kingdom was very welcoming of the Elven Queendom to the East. Gelmied was amazed they've even made it this far into the unowned land without someone shouting invasion force.
But he blinked after a few seconds of thought, Dark Elves don't normally follow politics and he's never known them to form full armies and know how things are run in such outfits. He looked at the fire lifting a metal bar and stirring the logs a little.
He gave her a genuine chuckle.
"High Elves are nae welcome in most places Ms. Togar. That goes for their armies as well. And we're in an ungoverned land between the two Kingdoms of the Ebonrock Dwarves and the Wind Runners of the White Peaks. They've been fighting over the mountains tae the North and the foothills for centuries. The Queen herself ordered the task, and we're supposed tae find any evidence of the cell and report it back tae the Lady General so she can send in more troops."
"Hehe", Sabin smiled, "I may have spent too much time underground or in missions. I always thought the other elves clan had it better than us, dark ones".
Then again when you claim to be a natural faction, politic hardly plays into the daily life. That's the Matriarch job to handle after all... and Sabin was but a warrior.
His smile was nice. For a moment it made her forget about his scars and pain. She wanted him to stay in such high spirit.
But him aside something didn't add up.... Denika clearly said something about Orcs... and religion war...
"So what have you learned from being around this area for so long?"
Sabin started to feel the cold now as well. She was not used to being dressed only in her light undercloths. She hugged herself gently, rubbing her hands as she tried to focus on the conversation and any missing details.
SikstaSlathalin
11-28-2017, 03:11 AM
The Snow Elf shook his head standing up and quickly running upstairs and grabbing the old blanket from the bed bringing it back down and draping it over the Dark Elf's body before returning to his spot in front of the fire sitting a little closer to the woman. It was almost nice talking with someone without it being the prelude to something else.
The warrior shook his head.
"Dark Ones, Pale Ones, Golden Ones, it doesnae matter. Each race has it's own problems, none are well liked by the other races of Eisgnol ." He was beginning to feel the draft too, but his people are remarkably hardy when it comes to temperatures. He would swim naked in the ice flows of the Glacial Sea as a boy and never worried about injury. His eyes narrowed at her last question looking into the glowing coals trying to figure out how to word his response. They found no sign of any Orc cells, just one Orc living on the outskirts of the town. And while they found out he was an infamous Mercenary many years ago no one could even remember the last time they saw him speak more than few words to anyone nor did they recall seeing him lift a weapon outside of hunting.
That one aside most Orcs that town saw were gathering supplies for a stronghold. And the strongholds hold no allegiance to each other so the likelihood of them uniting and posing a threat to Queen Isalina are very minimal especially with Dwarves and Wind Runners at war. Both of those faction would be the more likely target than Avelar far to the East. The fire hissed at him gently urging him to toss two more logs into the blaze. New light and heat began to billow out surrounding the two Elves. How should he answer Sabin's question? The brand only burned when he insulted the Captain and it's not like he owed any loyalty to High Elves or any Elf Clan under the sun or under the ground. But if something happened and word got back to Denika that he told classified information that led to the problem a burning brand would be the least of his worries.
With another big sigh he decided to just tell her his own observations.
"Not much, after a few weeks we found nae sign of a rebel cell, at the end of the first month when nothing was found the Lady General had sent orders for us tae return to Avelar. But something...happened." His lips moved to finish his thought, but they stopped and the big man winced a little rubbing the brand and hunching over so his head was closer to Sabin's.
She was thankful for the gesture. As he wrapped her with the blanket, the cold backed away… but only for a moment as she started to shiver under it, trying to regain her body heat. Still, it was becoming bearable to sit there by the fire.
While she continued to warm up she looked at his, her eyes gazing at his bare skin, which showed marks of goosebumps. He was probably effected by the chilly wind but probably not to the same extant. Still he did not complained. How admirable.
So far he proved to be a rather amazing man. He took care of her in more ways than needed, and was very friendly and nice. He could have not talk at all, but here they were, sharing a place by the fire, with him detailing much more of the events that took place up until now, despite the brand of Denika which was threatening him with malice like an invisible sword over his head.
She took a deep breath.
How one, pride as a blue lion, such as he, was reduced to those chains of fate. He was so handsome… Why a person like him was used as if he was only a tool…
The gap between them seemed to grow shorter and Sabin couldn't help but seeing him as a man, despite the fact she knew she shouldn't see him as such. He was so broken. His eyes until now devoted of hope… And any reaching from her side would destroy this magical moment they shared with only words and closeness which was not intimate by the ideal definition of the word. She knew everything done to him now would be counted as her taking advantage of him, and yet the thoughts were still there…. The thought of his skin, his eyes, his hair….
"I'm thankful", she said as she cocooned herself within the blanket. It was a nice gesture. She herself would not have the pride to ask for aid regarding the cold from a stranger, yet he saw within his heart to help without her request. It was a noble act.
She took a deep breath, "Gelmied, I hate to see you like this, I wish I could have done something. I hate requesting this…", she really hated it but, "I know you are choosing your words carefully, but…", she stopped slowly before she continued, "I need to know… I need to know more…", her silver eyes flashed with each stoke of the flames, "Please, tell me more… I know it's selfish of me to ask… I know it must be painful… But few lives are at stake here…".
She wished there was something she could have done for him… some kind of reward for everything… maybe that will reduce the guilt of asking him so boldly.
SikstaSlathalin
11-30-2017, 07:37 PM
Gelmied growled through the growing pain of the brand. His fingers dug into the angry red flesh and he nearly doubled over. The Captain must be actively causing this, there's no way she could know what was being discussed so she must just be bored and trying to cause some trouble for someone.
He's dealt with it before, so taking a deep breath the Snow Elf began to fight back for his control. He began saying what sounded like a magical chant as his body began to slowly creep back into his upright position. He took a few deep breaths and looked Sabin in the eyes his face still winced in pain and his clenched teeth gleam softly in the firelight. It took him a few seconds, but he regained his composure still holding his hand over the brand. "I..will...try." He groaned once more and had to tense up all the formidable muscles in his body first but he answered through clenched teeth. "Something attacked us...normally the Captain views attacks like this with a...kind of cold amusement. This time though...I was standin' next tae her and I saw a single flare of recognition and rage, before her usual expression took back over. I dinnaekin who or what it was, but the Captain knew and we lost two men before we could escape." As he finished the brand seemed to ease some and the man let out a deep sigh his body sagging forward some into Sabin's shoulder. Fighting through the pain always exhausts him.
"Gelmied!", his twists of pain were so sudden. It was horrible seeing him going into such vocal seizure. Even though he was handling it well, it was unsightly scene.
Was she listening to them?
No... it was not so... she would have done worse if given the chance.
Sabin was already on her feet, dropping her blanket in the process as she rushed to grab the ointment.
After he finished talking she knelt beside him and started to apply it gently, "Are you okay?".
The brand burnt, she could feel the rage and aura beaming from it, almost stronger than the fireplace beside them.
It was a warning... Denika wanted to make sure Sabin only did what was needed and not doing anything else for sure...
Yet the info she got was troubling.
"Y'gol", Sabin said slowly.
SikstaSlathalin
11-30-2017, 08:59 PM
Hunched over on his knees Gelmied pounded his fist into the old wood of the gatehouse as the brand continued to blaze with pain. His breath was sharp and a pained groan filled the air around them. As the woman applied the ointment again it helped some, but it wasn't enough. He sighed being able to regain his control again.
"I...I can manage thank you." He seethed gently as he got to his feet using the wall as a guide. His fist was still clenched in pain, and anger was ablaze in his eyes. But while his eyes said angry his body showed sheer hopelessness. He wanted freedom and an escape from the pain, but he knew it was impossible.
He recovered as fully as possible and gave the Dark Elf a small smile. "It'll pass, it might just be the Captain bein' bored before bed." He straightened up his breath shallow, but a question was already formed. "Y'gol? I know that name."
Sabin place the ointment down, near the fire, knowing she may need it again soon, and got up, holding her hands in the air beside the giant elf, in case his legs will give in again, so she could catch him.
Her eyes narrowed and her expression showed sadness. If she could, she would have torn the brand off of him.
His hand turned a little red from clenching. The pain was probably too much. Soon however, both her palms clapped over his hand pet it gently, encouraging him to relax and open up his hand, as to not harm it father.
"Sit with me", she said, as she slowly guided him by the fire. She waited for him to do so she requested, while she herself was already on the ground with crossed legs, all the while petting his hand and placing it within hers.
Her gaze was then turned to the fire.
"Y'gol is a very troublesome ogre. He is charged with many criminal activities, and is a wanted criminal in at least six states. He also been captured once, but was able to free himself", Sabin looked up, her silver eyes glittering, "I was in the party tracking him, as we were supposed to recapture him… But I failed said mission. Between the choice of my friend life and landing a blow that might have hinder him badly, I've chosen my friend. In turn he too stayed off the main roads and promised to stay clear of sentinel life forms. And it has been so ever since. I could not go back on my words after that, but he too remained incognito… ", Sabin looked up, "Until now…"
Sabin lowered her gaze, "Denika… has a grudge against him… he killed someone important to her".
It all began to make sense now.
SikstaSlathalin
12-01-2017, 09:15 PM
Gelmied opened his hands and gingerly sat down with Sabin his teeth still clenched as each movement caused the brand to spark up. He held Sabin's hands within is own and enjoyed the contact and warmth as she explained how she knew Y'gol. It fit what he heard about the beast at least parts of it, the information about him killing someone close to the Captain through was new.
He had heard her mumble in her sleep a few times about someone named Igin. But he knew better than to ask about it. He was a plaything and wasn't expected to ask questions, as she finished speaking the big Mer nodded.
"Ay, I've heard that much, but there are other stories of him in the North. Many thought of him as a supernatural beast. Impossible to catch and almost a guaranteed death if ye crossed his path. And I guess that's why the Captain ordered us tae try and drive the game away and starve the "Orc Rebels". He let out a deep sigh grasping the woman's hands firmly and eyeing the fire. "More lies upon more lies, such is the way of the High Elves." He wasn't sure about the time, but he should be starting his guard shift soon. He was sure this night would turn into one more memory to try and forget, but it turned into something much more and he was very glad for it. He didn't want to start his shift now, this was the first time he's had someone talk with him in years. It was nice, if only he was a free man he could spend more time with Sabin and have even better conversations.
As it stood though he was still a slave, but at least he was free enough for one genuine gesture. He pulled Sabin's hands in and wrapped the woman in a firm bare chested hug before he used one hand to lift her chin and give her a kiss on the lips. He held it for a few seconds then broke it and smiled down at her. "Thank ye Sabin."
"Gelmied", she whispered softly, the taste of his lips still fresh on hers, "Don't go!", she hugged him closely, "Stay with me tonight…".
The night was growing colder, but by the flickering flames, a small hope of heat was lying in wait… and of course, he, whose skin and hair were so fair and sweet as his scent… a promise of a wonderful embrace full of warmth.
She reached her hands around him, careful not to trigger the brand as she did so, all the while letting her arms hit against his, just to absorb more of him.
His smile was making it harder and harder to resist… plus that spontaneous kiss… did it mean anything special?
Her hair fall gently on her shoulders, and she soon was on her toes as she tried to reach his head level, but barely reached his chin as she placed another gentle kiss there.
He didn't protest, but seemed amused.
"I'm not as tall as you", she grinned, "But it shouldn’t prove too much of a problem".
She placed her head on his chest, nuzzling him, "You are so warm…", slowly both of them were kneeling down by the fire, still hugging, "Please… stay with me…", she looked at him with silver begging eyes, not daring to tear herself away.
She passed her fingers over his bare back, drawing circles with her fingers, while humming slowly, as she enjoyed stroking him.
Then with sudden determination she throw him back, slowly climbing and making her way on top of him, kneading his arms and petting him gently, "To me you are a free man and if the twin goddesses desire it, I shall break those chains… but for now, you will have freedom to throw me away from you at any moment, or tell me to halt…"
She smiled as she reached for his neck, planting soft kisses, "please stop me if I cross the line"
SikstaSlathalin
12-01-2017, 11:51 PM
Gelmied wouldn't dream of tossing her aside. She was the first person to treat him as something more than just a toy or unwanted stray. She treated the slave like a man with thoughts and desires, even if this would be the last time they saw each other she would be with him always. He wrapped his powerful arms around her pulling her hips and body as close as possible.
His rough hands slid up her body pulling the shoulder straps of her shift down a little so he could plant a kiss on her chest. "I could never push you away, my Valkyrie of the Night. And no one short of the Wild Brothers could change that they may even go tae your Twin Goddesses on our behalf if they dinnae approve." He chuckled working his hands and the shift down slowly until they rested on Sabin's hips. "But for now they can wait on us mere Elves before they object." He gently pulled the edges of the blanket up around the woman and used the fabric to pull her partially clothed body down to his level then sought out her lips and kissed them full once more.
It was a long night, full of wild dance, made from the heated embrace of two elves, symbolizing light and darkness, their naked skin flashing in the light of the flame which has demised come morn, following with them both collapsing and ending up sleeping while still entangled and panting.
Sabin woke with the first light, turning around only to find Gelmied staring at her with eyes open and a smile.
How long has he been up? Did he try not moving as to not wake her up? Was he watching her all this whole time?
Sabin blushed as dark red line appeared on her dark cheeks. She soon lowered her head to kiss his forehead and then plant another kiss on his lips.
"Thank you, for staying with me…".
She looked at him long and hard before she bit her lips. She really didn't want to part from him, but there were precious few days to settle the score between Y'gol and the high elf before the town of Samach was caught within the monsters clutches…
And at this point, considering Denika at the same level of monster as the ogre was reasonable.
"I need to go the village of Samach…", she said slowly, as she rose to her feet.
A small ache spread within her once she got up. It's been some time since she was intimate with anyone, and they both were a bit rough with each other, so the actions of the night seem to become apparent. It was a good pain though.
She put her gown over her body as she knelt beside him, "There are so many lies, but I can't put you to risk. Denika expects me to head there, and I've already took much of your time of your night shift. Just be careful, and try to convince people to leave… I'm not sure if the other are slaves or carry the same brand as you. I believe that you are the only one special enough to have it and this is why, I implore you to encourage others to leave. When the time comes I am not sure I will side with Denika, but I will try to free you if possible.
Speaking of which, is your mark still itching?"
SikstaSlathalin
12-02-2017, 01:52 AM
Gelmied hadn't really slept, between Sabin and his guarding the gate he didn't find the time. But he cared not this has been the best night of his long life and just being this close to Sabin left him as well rested as if he actually slept the whole night. Like all pleasent dreams though it was bound to come to an end, and as Sabin stood and got dressed the Pale One followed gathering his own discarded garments and began to redress. He took one last longing at the woman's wonderful body before her gown hid it from his sight.
He smiled at her concern another genuine smile reserved just for the beautiful Dark Elf.
"Nae it returned tae it's usual dull annoyance sometime in the night." He pulled his underarments and pants on then slipped past the woman a fond hand sliding across her lower back as he went by. He reached his gear and freed the old hunting dirk from his claymore's shoulder rig. It was his only true possession left from his youth and he wanted it to find honor again in the hands of his valkyire. He wrapped it in a bit of cloth and placed it in her hand. "I am the only one...of my kind in the Captain's employ. The rest are normal soldiers, they enlisted a few years before me and are body and soul loyal tae the Lady General and Queen Brightcloth. I will dae what I can tae convice them. But they know what I am and give me the same consideration as ye would a dog." He closed her hands around the dirk and kissed them softly. "I want ye tae have this my valkyire. Ye have shown me the first real kindness I have gotten in many a year and in my culture that has earned ye a warrior's undyin' loyalty and love. And that is best shown by givin' ye my dirk, it may be a wee bit big for ye, but it will serve ye well. And ye can show the honor of battle better than I can."
He then kissed her lips once whispering to her.
"Ye have already freed me lassie. And as long as I am in your thoughts I will always be free." He rubbed her cheek fondly before stepping back and nodding towards the door that leads to the forest beyond the walls. "Now ye can go out the front door of the gatehouse and be gone before the Captain comes tae check on us. And dinnae worry about puttin' me in danger, I have lived this long in my current state. A few more days won't hurt. Now go my valkire, fly fast and fly free, and may claws of the Wild Brothers never find ye throat." He gave her one more deep passionate kiss before he finished putting on his armor and weapons and unlocked the gatehouse for her speedy escape.
Sabin stared at the gift fondly. She then cradled it closer to her bosom, before kissing the blade, "I shall protect it, Gelmied, as if it was you I was holding".
With each kiss they shared it was harder to part ways, "Gelmied, I will find a way to free you".
She watched the tall elf leaving and as he closed the door she knelt, crouching on the floor, "Damn it Denika… why… why did you do all those things?".
Even though Gelmied told her she could use the front gate, Sabin decided to leave unnoticed by the window of the room she had stayed.
Landing was a bit rough but that did not stop her from rushing to the place she had hidden her armor, which was not far from a river side. She took off her cloths and dived into the cold water, stepping outside and rubbing herself clean, before putting the rest of her garment. Once the belt with her two twin blades was around her hips, she found a place to tie an additional small scabbard within which she placed the gifted Dirk. She decided to name it "D'ror", which meant "a bird of freedom".
"Strange to see you all dressed up!"
That voice. Sabin failed to notice anyone around her. She let her guard down with the thought of the trapped snow elf, which made her completely forgot that she was out in the open and unprotected.
"Have you followed me to report back to Denika?", said Sabin as she slowly turned around.
Yaorlan smirk was spreading from ear to almost ear, and was fixed upon his face, "I know you are up to something, but Denika seems to be so out of it. Frankly I want to just follow you and see that you are doing what needs to be done".
"So you could rat on me?"
"Maybe…"
Sabin looked at him somewhat surprised, "I'm positive Denika would not have sent someone after me"
"No, you don't know her. She would have sent a patrol after you if she could, without blinking an eye, but she obviously thought you would not be an easy track, so such efforts will be futile. She needs all the men she can right now anyway".
"So… are you acting on your own?"
"I may"
"For Denika's sake?"
There was a long and dark silent. Sabin decided to ask further.
"Y'gol?"
Another pause, "So you know".
"I have my suspicions, but I'm going to play along. Not for her sake, or for the fiend's. The town's people lives are at stake".
"I know…", he lowered his gaze, "It's madness, no matter how worthy the cause of capturing or killing him, the queen has ordered us to leave… Yet the captain…"
"Did she cause the wound on your ear?".
Yaorlan hesitated and nodded softly, "She gave you a way out of it. Don't waste it. If you can, just walk away from this. She is very powerful, both in terms of magic and political influence. One destroyed city will not harm her reputation or her position in the lady queen's court. She is that formidable".
"Yet here you are, following me, teasing me, making me antagonizing you… but It seems you know much about dark elves… so you being here means that-!"
"I'll follow you, for my men's sake, not for hers. At first I was sure you were hired by a third party, I even suspected it was the ogre…"
"You do know a lot about dark elves", Sabin said.
"But nearly nothing about you, it seems", Yaorlan shook his head, "That blade… That oaf of a snow six packs carries this thing as if it was a blushing harlot and fondles it like a pair of tits. Say what you want about this hopeless meat slave- force him to do anything… but he will not part of his dirk easily and without a fight. I saw him leaving the room without it, and seeing the smile on his face I could only assume he gave it willingly… So I am willing to be less itchy and try your way… How long did the ogre gave you?"
"Three days, but only two remain. don't you think it will be better to just try to convince your men to run away?"
"No. They are my men but they will not follow me blindly; they worship the captain like a goddess. I was like them as well. It's hard to break her effect"
"Follow me then, and tell me what else you can on the way to the town".
SikstaSlathalin
12-02-2017, 09:24 PM
The two Elves walked through the forest in tense silence. Neither liked the other nor did they trust each other. Yaorlan was here as an insurance for his men and Sabin was on a greater mission to save an innocent town from the wrath of a creature who knows only his own hunger and cares not for the lives he ends to feed his insatiable gluttony.
Dawn was giving way to noon when the pair found their way to the main road that leads to Sāmhach. It showed signs of heavy travel by both animal-pulled carriage and wanderers like them seeking the refuge of the quaint little town. A few yeomen were on the road with them and the Elves could hear hushed words and furtive glances back at them or maybe just at Yaorlan. Denika and Gelmied did say the group had been to town before and no doubt Denika made a bit of a scene when they were denied at the Inn, she might've even set someone they know on fire for it.
Either way the humans quickened their pace and were out of sight before the Elves could catch up. Not that they would've tried. Even being a Dark Elf and a Wood Elf, to the average person they were just cronies to the oppressive High Elves from Avelor and no one wanted to cross their paths. Continuing on in silence the Mer reached the small wooden archway that marked the beginning of the mountain town's borders. The foot traffic increased and they saw many races rubbing shoulders and glaring at each other. Humans, Trolls, Dwarves, some Cat people, even a couple of heavily cloaked Tieflings, their red tails swishing gently under the folds of their garments. It was a refreshing shock, but still the two Elves kept their hands in and their eyes forward making sure to not make eye contact with anyone.
Sāmhach is small by most standards, but it still holds some logic in it's layout and construction. The town is partially built into the mountainside, but by the looks of the buildings those are primarily residential. They were a little higher up the slope and taking over the bulk of the plains under them was the marketplace and a few inns and on the outskirts are the Guild Halls that have taken up residence in Sāmhach. The town was dived by a large compass with four main roads and a number of smaller off-shooting ones. The two warriors looked at each other and shared a silent agreement that going to the marketplace and seeing who they can talk with would be the best idea.
Sabin took the lead, her eyes scanning all the heads and faces she could. She was looking for a merchant or maybe a town leader she could get on her side and ask a few questions of. But everyone looked to be busy or not from the town. The woman was so engrossed in looking she didn't notice Yaorlan walk up besides her and open his mouth to ask a question when a small green streak crashed into his legs and scuffled with him for a few seconds trying to snatch his coin pouch. But the Wood Elf was an old warrior and he was quicker than the little thief (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=32&p=2949955&viewfull=1#post2949955). He growled and lifted her up by the scruff of her little fur scarf.
"Damn little Half-Goblin bitch!" He growled at the little girl.
Despite being at the disadvantage the little girl was swinging her small arms with intent to take the man's head off.
"You putta Guk-Guk down, ya half-eared dippiy git!"
Yaorlan laughed in the girl's face holding her easily out at arm's length.
"By the Goddess! Guk-Guk? The stupid names of you little green rats always astounds me."
Guk-Guk growled and began to spin by her scarf trying to kick the soldier in the face, her own face reddening with rage.
"You put Guk-Guk down noaw! Or she gonna tell Papa Bone on you! He kill you so dead you not know you dead!"
The Wood Elf let out another loud laugh and drew his dagger from his belt holding it before the little Goblin half breed cutting her nose a little with it.
"Not if I kill you before you tattle!"
Guk gasped at the cut, some of the fight going out of her the anger being replaced by tears welling up in her eyes.
"Papa Bone will getta you!"
"That's enough, Yaorlan!", Sabin was not against the idea of punishing thieves, but the child's age should have clearly made some kind of a difference.
She put away his knife, but did not cause him to drop her, "Young child, stealing is wrong. We will look over this incident, but do not try it again", she took the child in her hands, putting her on the ground and kneeling beside her so they were both on the same eye level.
"What you did deserve punishment. Yaorlan's actions would have been the norm were you older, but for your age, you've earned a small forgiveness and compassion. His methods are horrible, but were he another man or lady, would he or she not have done the same? Worse even?"
Sabin turned at Yaorlan and back at the young girl, "Why would you steal, Guk-Guk?". Sabin treated her as equal person, not a child, saying her name as formal as she would have said any name. She truly wanted to understand the nature of this child, "You obviously have a father you are proud to announce his name as a warning. Would he approve of your actions? Would your deeds not soil his reputation?".
SikstaSlathalin
12-02-2017, 10:16 PM
As she was freed Guk-Guk didn't want Yaorlan to think he got the better of her so she gave him one hard kick in the shine and chuckled as the man began bouncing up and down on his unwounded leg glaring down at the little half-breed. The girl continued to smirk at the Elf's pain when Sabin crouched and tried talking to her like a little adult. Guk hated it when grown-ups did this, they think it made things better, but it usually just felt patronizing.
The little girl pouted and crossed her arms over her budding chest refusing to look Sabin in the eyes. She just mumbled gently under her breath as the Dark Elf lectured her. But as she mentioned her Papa the little girl looked at her silver eyes frowning gently.
"Papa Bone would killa him just for fun. But now he hurt Guk-Guk, Papa Bone will skinna him 'live! An' maka you watch! Papa Bone like haf Guk steal, he no be hungry an' he no get trouble!" The little girl's face was a mix of rage and deep embarrassment which was causing tears to stream hotly down her round face. She doesn't usually get caught and those that do catch her never try to talk with her, they try to hit her, but she is usually quicker than them can get away clean.
Guk didn't like the Elf man he smelled funny, the She-Elf was different though she smelled nice, almost like her mother. But she was looking for something shiny to bring to Papa Bone and make him smile. The girl glanced down and saw a small pouch filled with some shiny bottles filled with colorful things. She had no clue what they were, but Papa might. Looking back up she quickly headbutted Sabin and grabbed the pouch clutching it to her small chest and delivering one more hard kick to Yaorlan knocking him on his ass and into a dirty puddle. With both of them hopefully out of commission for a few seconds the sprightly little girl took off through the growing crowd bobbing and weaving around legs and carts making her escape.
"ARRGH!", Yaorlan said, kicking the dirt around him with anger as Sabin placed her palm over her forehead.
"What kind of a fool are you?", he said, looking down at her, "What do you think you're trying to do? She will obviously not get any better, those creatures only care about what they steal, nothing else. Idiot!"
Sabin shook her head, "She looked so sad…".
"You really are an idiot!", he said, "Let's go!"
"No, we can't. She took my mixtures. Used in the wrong hands, it can cause great harm. She may even hurt herself and-!"
"Do you even listen to yourself? Why do you care about her? She can just go and plow herself for all I care, besides, you saw how quickly she went, and there is no way you can-! HEY! I'M TALKING HERE!"
Sabin started to dash, following the footsteps of the little girl, and once she reached a building with huge barrels at their side, she sprinted and jumped quickly to the roof. She quickly gazed around, finding the little whelp as a cute green dot in the distance. She licked her lips as she studied the routes and quickly judged the more probable way the lass will go for. She then started to run and jump from place to place, using her skills to hasten her movement. She then landed not far from a shabby looking house and hide in the corner.
The half goblin girl just was just passing right there and Sabin reached her arm, making the little girl hit her head against it, throwing her back along with the stolen satchel. The young girl had just recovered and was about to get up when Sabin throw herself at her, pinning her to the ground, the small satchel already hang in place.
A smile spread across her face, "Okay then, can we start again please?"
Few minutes later Yaorlan appeared, panting a little. He was still angry and wanted to hit the little girl but Sabin stopped him, "Don't!"
"But she-!"
"I'll make it up to you later, please, let me handle this".
The elf looked at the girl on the ground. Well, the dark elf sure knew what she was doing if she was capable to capture her. She was indeed a very interesting woman, "Fine", he pouted, "But she better have good excuse".
"Yes, you are right, Guk-Guk, what's the meaning of this?"
SikstaSlathalin
12-02-2017, 10:54 PM
Guk-Guk let out a shrill series of giggles as saw the two big lumps disappear and make no motion to follow her. That was common, must grown-ups are fat and lazy and just let her go. Even though the Elves looked fit and quick Guk has always been fitter and quicker than grown-ups. Even Papa Bone couldn't catch her and he was huge.
The girl dodged around the startled villagers not even thinking to look up to see if Sabin was following her from up above. She was running on instinct and let her mind wander to how happy she'll make Papa Bone when she handed him the bottles. He was scary to look at and smelled funny after he came back from hunting, but he protected Guk-Guk from most harm and what harm he couldn't prevent he avenged within the day. And most of the time just mentioning him was enough to make people be afraid and let her have what she stole with no further argument.
But these two were obviously from out of town, because they showed no real reaction to the name. Guk-Guk would've used his real name, but she could never pronounce it right despite hearing him say it many times before. He would give her so many hugs and he might even show her how to use his weapons. He always said despite how strong she was, she was not big enough to use them yet. He never liked seeing her get hurt and the weapons were almost twice Guk's size. Little Guk was almost in the clear, she could see the break in the fence that led up the mountain and knew once she got there no one would ever chase her that close to Papa Bone's land.
Unfortunately she was celebrating a little early when a strong arm shot across her path and cloths lined her. The half-breed saw stars and tumbled down the alleyway her face hitting a few bigger rock before she slid to a halt her head spinning. She was almost to her feet when Sabin pinned her to the ground. Guk-Guk fought violently her slightly enhanced strength lifting Sabin off the ground a little she even tried to bite Sabin's arms, but the Dark Elf had limited the girl's movement too much and she gave up after a few minutes panting heavily her face still darkened by tears with more coming after them. She was willing to give up the bottles, she just wanted to go home now and be with Papa Bone.
But she wasn't going anywhere so she just let the tears and anger show plainly.
"YOU LETTA GUK-GUK GO! SHE NO TALK WITH YOU! YOU HURTIN' GUK-GUK!" The little girl tried to fight some more, but her sobs and the pressure of Sabin on top of her was making it hard.
Sabin stared at the girl with a fixed expression, but deep down her heart broke seeing the little girl so terrified.
"Guk-Guk, I will let go of your hands now, slowly, and I will let you be on your feet. I did not want to humiliate you, but as you can, I can clearly catch up with you. We don't want to harm you…"
"Hump!", Yaorlan grunted.
Sabin shook her head, "I will not let him harm you, but…", sabin jumped off the girl and stood up, "If you want, you can leave, I won't force you. But don't steal again, I'm worried for you. I can't even start to explain the danger you may be in…".
Sabin then looked at Yaorlan, "Let’s go, we need to find some way to help this town before time runs out".
"About time you get some reason", Yaorlan said, "Hear what lady dark said here? I won't be so nice next time!"
SikstaSlathalin
12-02-2017, 11:18 PM
As Sabin moved Guk-Guk quickly pulled her legs up to her chest sniffling as she curled into a little ball watching the Elves go. This was too strange, once she got caught a second time the person never let her just go again. They beat her black and purple and she had to hide out in Papa Bone's warm room and heal up.
After she showed up in such a state he wouldn't leave her side until she was better then he left and only came back once the person was dealt with and usually he came carrying a bag of sweets and medicine for her. She loved Papa Bone so much for that, but she knew he would be sad if she didn't bring back anything from the town. Even if it was just a few scraps of food, Guk needed to bring something back and a loud growl from her stomach caused her to whimper gently and say to Sabin.
"Guk-Guk hafta steal or she no eat." She wiped her nose on her fur gauntle rubbing her flat empty tummy. Papa Bone sometimes found food for her or cooked some of his own for her since she can't eat raw meat like him. But her papa was always so hungry he couldn't give up much of his own food or he gets extra sad.
Moving into a curled up seated position Guk looked up sadly at Sabin. "Guk-Guk can help save town. She knows everyone."
Sabin stopped as the girl wailed. She looked at Yaorlan with a pleading expression.
"Oh brother, don't tell me you-!"
And before she let him finish his words she was turning back, kneeling by the girl's side.
"Bah, of course you are…", he sighed and followed back, his shoulders dropped. He didn't get her at all. All the other dark elves he had the "pleasure" to meet were never this kind. No, they were not kind at all. Always had a fixed expression without emotion, carrying themselves with the hypocritical promise of neutrality. Why was Sabin so different?
Actually Sabin had proved so far to be too clueless and out of it, like she hardly ever visited the area around her. Did she belong to some other tribe clan? It must have been so, for the other dark ones he met acted so differently. They were smarter, and often more evil.
He followed Sabin with heavy steps. He didn't want to admit it, but even he felt himself warming up at the sight of the crying girl. Tears were always his weakness in women after all.
"Don't cry", Sabin placed her hands on her shoulder and pet her. She withdraw a small salted piece of meat which was prepared as provision for the journey and gave it to her, "Eat… You said you know everyone… How can you help us Guk-Guk?"
"Maybe her papa can"
The two girls looked at him.
"We need someone strong and capable to defend town. Maybe even more", he shook his head, "Obviously they need to be warned before we head back to either Y'gol or the captain. Her father may be a powerful ally"
Sabin couldn't argue with his reasoning, "Can you help us with that Guk-Guk?"
In truth, meeting the girl father may help solving some more questions regarding this girl and her habit of stealing, maybe putting it to an end even.
SikstaSlathalin
12-02-2017, 11:49 PM
Guk cautiously sniffed the offered meat before quickly taking it and munching it down. She couldn't remember the last time she had salted meat. Usually she ate bread and cheese sometimes even fresh fruit if she could get her hands on it. Before she knew it though the meat was gone, it quieted the rumble in her tummy, but didn't stop it completely.
The goblin child got back to her feet dusting herself off and shook her head slowly. The name Y'gol sounded familiar, but she couldn't place it and she had no clue who Captain was. Maybe they were friends with the two Elves.
"Papa Bone not allowed ina town, people ascared of him. But Guk-Guk know everyone, she take you to Wolfy and Ms. Puppet. He big mercy, only not now! She magic, they owna Puppet's Cradle Inn. They like Guk-Guk!" The prospect of an adventure and visit to the Puppet's Cradle helped cheer the little girl up. She hugged Sabin's hand and arm gently and began leading her across the marketplace to a white and red two story building with the picture of a sleeping puppet on the sign.
The owners of the inn were kind to all the town's urchins, but they let Guk-Guk stay by the fire on cold nights when she couldn't get back to Papa Bone.
It was weird for Sabin to be led like that by the little girl. Dark elves were not that emotional, and she never had a child of her own to know the feelings of being dragged by one.
She looked at Yaorlan with a puzzled expression, and he only stared back and chuckled, "Relax darky lass, enjoy it".
Sabin then let her guard down as the child led them across the place, both of them warming up to her the more they walked into the center of the town.
Before reaching the inn the three gotten hateful expressions from the townsfolk as they passed. Sabin wondered if the reason for it was her, the wood elf, or the young half goblin, but she was used to be looked down upon, and by so tried her best not to be offended by it.
After some distance they reached the inn, which appeared to be a rather comfortable size of a building with two floors. Bards sang and play at the far corner, while some tables were full with poker games and drinks.
The stairs led upstairs and good smell of food was rising from the great oven by the bar.
SikstaSlathalin
12-03-2017, 01:14 AM
Guk-Guk led them past the drunken and sour faced patrons and right up to the counter were a woman with purplish black hair (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=5&p=2722745&viewfull=1#post2722745) was cleaning a few glasses. She looked young at a distance, but once the trio got closer they could see a few streaks of silver cascading down her long hair that reached mid back and was held back with a simple black hair tie. She was humming a soft tune and only stopped when someone roughly scooted a chair back and stomped over towards the three.
She looked up her eyes already glowing with annoyance. She simply glanced at the big shadow taking up it's own corner table. She heard a low growl and the shadow stood up and slowly moved it's way towards the wouldbe confrontation. Before the shadow go there though the drunken man was already at the Elves' side quickly moving in front of them barring them from going any further.
"Yer kind ain't welcome 'ere knife ears! Ya already got thrown outta town once for almost setting fire to the Old Man's Crook. I dun't care if ye come back wit some dark skinned hussy! Leave an take that rotten wee thief wit ye!" The man was obviously drunk and he seemed to recognize Yaorlan from his group's last visit to Sāmhach.
Guk-Guk growled up at him and contemplated attacking him, but a large scarred hand thunked heavily down on his shoulder. The drunk instantly froze and he turned his head looking fearfully into the face of a burly man (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&p=2722439&viewfull=1#post2722439) with burning gold eyes. The man let out a bestial growl yanking the drunk out of the way to towards the door. "You're done here Danders, I'm sorry about your inn, but you know we do not tolerate violence of any kind in the Puppet's Cradle. Find a Sheriff and report him if you must, but until then they are safe in here."
When Danders refused to move, the woman behind the counter placed the clean mug heavily down on the wood glaring at the man.
"You heard Mr. Wolfgrain; Danders go before I let him throw you out."
The bouncer let out another deep growl and began rolling up the sleeves of his tan colored shirt revealing a truly massive forearm littered with old scars. This was enough for the man, he shot Sabin, Guk-Guk, and Yaorlan one last seething glare before he stomped out of the Inn slamming the door behind him. The woman let out a deep sigh then smiled at the new customers, particularity at Guk-Guk she leaned across the bar and ruffled the girl's hair softly.
"Hey there Guk-Guk, they catch ya and decided to bring you here instead of the slammer huh? How about Hasher take you back and see what the cook has for you." The little girl let go of Sabin's arm and giggled following the intimidating man to the kitchen.
The woman watched them go fondly then turned back to the Elves smiling.
"Sorry about that, Danders is usually a quiet man, but..." She looked at Yaorlan studying him closer. "Sometimes things happen that can ruin even the best men. Welcome to the Puppet's Cradle. I'm Xandra Merning and that was Hasher Wolfgrain. We run this little refuge in the mountains. Who might you two be?"
"My name is Sabin Togar of the Qamran tribe, and this is Yaorlan, a warrior in the service of captain Denika Lestaff".
Yaorlan bowed his head.
"Forgive us, but can we please find a more isolated place to speak?"
"Indeed. I'm not sure our news will be good for other ears... until we settle on what to do that is. In addition we've been walking far hours, and have been running too", Yaorlan glared at the little imp Guk-Guk, "We would love to dine, or rest our legs, we will pay obviously".
SikstaSlathalin
12-03-2017, 09:06 PM
Xandra nodded to them and moved from behind the bar. She looked across the tavern and spotted a bar wench seated on the lap of a Bard giggling and flirting up a storm. The woman rose her voice and shouted. "Ashley get behind the bar I need to talk with these two in private." At first the girl didn't look like she wanted to go, but a stare from Xandra made her quickly stand up and move behind the bar.
As she passed the Elves they could see just how beautiful she was, almost too beautiful. She was a human, but her face was delicately shaped and almost looked painted on. Her body was well-shaped and her chest large and bouncy, but it all looked too perfect. And her eyes were an innocuous brown color. She nodded at Sabin and Yaorlan and took up her new spot at the bar cleaning glasses.
Once the girl was in place Xandra led the Elves through the empty banquet room and to a thick wooden door. The barkeep pulled a key from the pocket of her apron and flicked through the ten or so keys on the ring until she found the old rusted iron one that fit the door. She quickly opened the door and ushered the two Elves in. She waved her hand and magic greenish blue flame filled the wall scones and a strange dancing twilight showed the room to be a type of carpenter's shop with drills, sanders, lathes, and such running neatly down the western wall. Along the left wall though was the real sight. Life-sized wooden puppets were seated upon eight wooden stools. Some were faceless mannequins, but a few looked eerily like the bar wenches, the last a perfect copy of Ashley.
Xandra cleared off her large carving table then looked between the Elves and her puppets as if they had commented on a nice picture on the wall. Yaorlan spoke with a light chuckle.
"Ha, thought that girl looked too perfect. She's a construct."
Xandra shrugged grabbing three chairs from the wall and placing them across the table from each other.
"In a sense, I'm a Puppet Master Mage and she, alongside a few others on my staff are my creations. Puppets controlled by me, but also infused with simple independent spirits so they can do simple tasks on their own. It helps keeps the coffers from being robbed and allows myself and Hasher to learn a great many things about travelers." She motioned for the warriors to take a seat and she'll gather some food for them.
She went out through a hidden door in the wall and returned a few minutes later with a couple of simple meat and cheese sandwiches and three tankards of warm mead. After placing the plates before her guests she took her own seat and took a pull of her mead.
"So what is this all about?" Xandra was a well connected woman and she usually gets the first word of trouble when it comes to Sāmhach's gates, but life has a way of throwing reality into our neat little lives.
"This is impressive", said Sabin.
"Take it you never seen a magical puppeteer before?", Yaorlan asked with a grin.
Sabin nodded.
"It's a rather fascinating art of control magic. However it has almost died down, some even find it more horrible than necromancy."
"But that girl seems so alive, where do you get the souls?"
"Not sure you want to go there darky", said Yaorlan, "Remember, we are only guests here, and we really don't have the time for it"
"That would be true", sabin nodded, her eyes glowing in the dim light of the chamber. Reaching here has been eventful adventure of creature after creature. It was so exciting that she almost forgot the real cause she started her journey, "A great showdown will take place soon. Once we part from here, we plan to do the day walk to the place of meeting, where we will try to stop a fearsome beast from seeking food, and another terrible woman from seeking revenge.
We wish to prevent as much bloodshed as possible, but I see that people will not take elf words seriously... And truth be told I can't blame them".
"Neither can I...", said Yaorlan recalling the last event with Denika, "They are still bastards though".
"Guk-Guk showed us here when we told her we are of need of strong people to defend the city, as we ourselves will try to prevent the powerful two beings from even reaching close to the town... But we may fail, and that is why we are here".
"She mentioned you, the owner of this inn, for your magical abilities", added Yaorlan.
"Indeed", said Sabin, "I can only assume 'Wolfy' is the man at the front, as she said both of you will be found here", she narrowed her eyes, "She also mentioned... Someone... I believe it to be her father, something along the line of 'Papa Bone'? Are you familiar with this person? can he help us?"
"Truth be told, Sabin probably wants to find him and explain how to better raise his child", Yaorlan chuckled.
"It's almost like you're beginning to like her", Sabin teased with a smile.
"That Imp?", Yaorlan said, his ears (ear and a half) blushing red, "NO WAY!"
Sabin laughed. After a moment of silent she continued, "It may not be needed, but it is important to defend the town... Frankly I would have probably asked someone to help me settle the score with either the high elf mage or the ogre we plan to deal with, but that will be asking too much for free".
SikstaSlathalin
12-04-2017, 01:59 AM
Xandra didn't even bother to hide her surprise at Yaorlan's knowledge of her craft. It was indeed a dying school of magical discipline. A less insidious branch of the Conjuration school and often viewed as the Light Side of Necromancy. Though people more ignorant in magic would consider them the same. Hence why she practices in secret. She nodded to the male Elf giving him a small round of applause.
"Very good Master Elf, my art is so very rare nowadays I am deeply surprised you've even heard of it." She looked at Sabin and despite the urgency of these talk she wished to at least answer the other woman's question. "In short, a novice Puppeteer gets their souls from the lower tiers of the Elemental Spirits. Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind. As they progress in skill and ability they can pull from the middle Tiers of Body, Mind, Spirit, Light and Dark. I am at the upper end of this group. My puppets are all aspects of the Mind Element. Ashley herself is a Music Spirit, and as such is attracted to all kinds of Bards and Troubadours. The greatest of my discipline can attach multiple spirits to one puppet and give it nearly complete sentience. I only know of one such creation though, a Harlequin performer who wanders the roads of Eisignol looking for her creator. Astra Sola Lunas is her name if you ever see her."
With her little magic lesson done the Puppeteer sipped her mead listening intently to them speak her face becoming darker and more grim with each word. While she could never voice her worries for fear of inciting panic, Xandra always knew that monster would finish the job of ruining the town he started twenty years ago. But as they finished speaking it became fairly obvious that they did not know that Papa Bone and the Ogre they so feared were one in the same. Y'gol Skullborne was both Guk-Guk's adopted father and the entity who the High Elf has been hunting for.
The woman quickly stood up and locked the door to the small room so no one could interrupt them. She then finished the last of her mead in a single gulp before sitting back down.
"First off I want to thank you both for telling me this because I had no clue about such danger lurking outside our borders." She took a deep breath thankful the Elves were seated for this next sentence. "But before you worry too much about picking a side there is one crucial bit of info you both need to know. The two entities are well known to the townsfolk, but the Ogre you speak of, Y'gol Skullborne? He is Guk-Guk's Papa Bone."
Yaorlan nearly choked on his sandwich and had to down half his tankard before he could respond.
"Y'gol Skullborne is Papa Bone?"
Xandra nodded slowly.
"He is."
The male Elf was really trying to wrap his head around this.
"The Y'gol Skullborne? The King's Killer? The Grizzly Beast? One of the single most vicious and feared creatures in Northern Eisignol? The monster that took the combined effort of the Avelar Elves, Ebonrock Dwarves, and the Human Dominion to bring down? Is the beloved papa of that little girl out there?" The man sunk into his chair holding his head in his hands muttering a string of Elvin curses under his breath.
Xandra knew how unbelievable that sounded, she'd known for years and it was still hard to grasp. "Yes, we don't how or why, but he took that lost little girl in and for all Guk-Guk raves on about him he appears to be the best father a child could want. Ya see up until four years ago when Guk-Guk first showed up in town. Y'gol had been living far to the north for twenty years and was almost every inch the unholy terror the stories paint him to be. While he didn't kill any person who wasn't foolish to attack him first, he gorged himself on our livestock and ransacked any trade caravan that he thought had food within it's crates. At first we tried to fight him, but as you said Master Yaorlan it took a coalition of three powerful nations to even catch him. We managed to wound him, but at heavy loss. After that he stayed away from our animals, but the caravans were still fair game. After two decades of being starved and cut off from sorely needed supplies and medicine Sāmhach was on the verge of collapse. This inn and a few stubborn hunters were all that was left when little Guk crawled to the door half dead from fear and hunger."
Xandra stopped and wiped a tear from her eye before continuing.
"We gave her shelter and what food we could spare. But no one thought she would last the night. Fortunately though it seems Goblins are made of sterner stuff than was previously thought or maybe the Orc blood in her kept her going because come morning she was running around and dancing like she was never at death's door." The Mage dried her eyes again, this time a smile breaking through the sorrow. "It was some kind of miracle, but the town was still falling to ruin thanks to Y'gol. Spring came and went with little Guk keeping everyone's spirits high. At least until the first day of summer, it was a warm night so all the doors and windows in the Cradle were open. Guk went out exploring and before we knew it she was deep within Y'gol's territory. We tried to seek her out, but Y'gol has traps all over the mountainside and we'd before she would be found. We mourned her, but the very next day she showed up with Y'gol in tow carrying a line of heavily laden caravan carts behind them. He said they were a peace offering and a birthday wish of Guk-Guk." The woman looked up at the Elves smiling gently. "That was the last time Y'gol was seen in town. At least until someone dares to harm Guk-Guk, but then we only see the aftermath of his visit, not the act. Today most of the residents from that time are dead or have moved away so it's only a handful of us who know the truth. And because of the rumor that Y'gol roams our hills most trouble gave Sāmhach a wide berth...until your Captain showed up Master Elf."
Yaorlan nodded slowly.
"Yes I know, we should've just stayed in Avelar."
Xandra nodded looking at Sabin.
"So there you two have it. The full story, what say you now?" She leaned back crossing her arms over her stomach.
"May all the Gods and Goddesses have mercy upon us." Yaorlan groaned softly looking up at the ceiling.
"My mind finds it so hard to digest", Sabin had expressionless gaze, but her mind was thrown into a turmoil.
She moved her hands on the table as she leaned back in her sit, avoiding the leering eyes of the elf and the pretty woman.
There, along in the corners of her brain, the visions embraced her, and the sight of the past became real... and those visions were hard to bear. Many fell during the hunt of Y'gol and Sabin had to personally close some of those men's eyes. But to hear about such horrible creature showing compassion... or some kind of affection... It was just too much.
"You over think this Darky", said Yaorlan, "He did hire you for a mission, didn't he? He also made sure to give you clear terms, in which he would attack only when certain conditions were met"
"What are you trying to say?"
"Not too much. You told me that ever since the day you spared him he was keeping off the main road. I just never bought your words for it. It looks like he did try to keep some promise, for whatever reason it may, for, as bestial as he may be, he seems to keep some principles in check"
"He does not fear me", said Sabin, "He mocks me".
"He still respects your vow".
"Do you really think so?"
"I don't know what to think anymore", Yaorlan grabbed his head, "Gah, why everything can't be simple. Black or white. It makes it so much harder when there are layers of gray. Why can't Denika remain good and the ogre stays evil. It's too complicated".
"Indeed", Sabin grabbed the food and started to eat it.
"Finally putting some stuff in?", Yaorlan smirked.
"I can't keep beating myself over this and my stomach aches", Sabin said while shielding her mouth, as talking with food was inappropriate, "When Denika gave me wine, refusing it was such a terrible task".
"You dark elves are so stuck up in your ideas"
"Don't you as well?"
"Point there, darky".
They set and eat their fill for half an hour more. Soon the inn was filled with more and more voices, indicating that more guests joined in. The hour of evening was drawing closer and their limited time was almost done.
"Please, just let whoever you can be informed", said Sabin to Xandra, "We do have to get going though".
Sabin removed her small pouch to pay, but Yaorlan stopped her, already putting forward two gold coins.
"But-!", Sabin protested but Yaorlan hushed her, marking her to follow along. When they were finally near the entrance of the inn they spotted Guk-Guk, but thankfully she was too busy dancing to the tunes of the bards to notice them leaving.
Yaorlan rushed then outside, Sabin in toe.
"Want to tell me what that was all about?", Sabin asked.
The elf grinned, "They say two gold coin is the right price to pay the man in charge of the death ferry... So if something happens, you own me..."
They walked some more distance before Sabin spoke again, "You really tried to avoid Guk-Guk back there, didn't you? Not going to say goodbye?"
"Better not", Yaorlan said with a painful expression, "The little imp might get the wrong impression and all".
Sabin chuckled, "So be it, oh great one".
SikstaSlathalin
12-04-2017, 08:48 PM
Xandra watched the Elves practically run out of the Inn and vanish into the night. The Puppet Master frowned as she looked at little Guk-Guk. The child would be distracted by the music for awhile, but not the whole night and once she was done she'd be wondering where Sabin and Yaorlan went. Guk-Guk became so attached to people Xandra almost couldn't bear to see her hurt again. It was out of her hands now though, she whistled at Ashley and took her place back by behind the bar while the Wench went to see who needed a refill.
Hasher's keen ears could hear most of what was said in Xandra's workshop, and after the Elves ran off without any kind of plan the old Werewolf let out an exasperated growl and followed after them. His longer stride easily overcame the Elves and he grunted softly.
"Wait, if you two are serious about helping this town defend itself the Mercenary Guild is where you will want to go. There's only Xandra, an old hunter named Dire, my nephew Dasher when he's not on the job,and a former knight named Rookery West living in town, and then there's me I was the Champion for my Werewolf pack years ago so I can be of some help. But you will need more than just us to defend this place if both Y'gol and the High Elf bitch attacks. There's a Guild Hall for Mercenaries and the like by the Eastern Wall, come I can show you and get you in since I am a member." The big Lycan grunted lightly turning his back and leading the Elves towards the Red Blade Guild Hall.
"I never understood the concept of guild", Sabin said, "Isn't it natural for family members to be bound together for common cause? why would you gather other clan members and races to share a cause"
"Not here, darky", Yaorlan smirked, "Here we usually fight our brothers and kill our fathers".
"This is very odd and disrespectful practice of kinship"
"Sometimes, often they usually deserve the axe in their heads", Said Yaorlan, "But from the little I know about the dark elves, your little communist social structure is very much like a guild, so I guess that's where your confusion is hailing"
Sabin nodded, "You never told me... How did you meet my people?"
"Well-!", They stopped by the gates of the guild's door as the name mentioned, the place did not shy away from the color of crimson, "Oh we're here, let's save this story for another time then"
SikstaSlathalin
12-04-2017, 10:56 PM
Hasher hmmed softly at the Elves chatter. Are all Elves this chatty? He wondered as he studied the door, it's been a few months since he's been here. He was likely behind on his dues, but this life was far behind him and after he took an arrow to the knee he stopped being an avid adventurer. Throwing drunks out of the Puppet's Cradle was one thing, but galumphing through the snow and mud looking for lost treasure or a hidden bandit camp became too much of a bother. Even hunting in his Hybrid or Wolf form proved tougher. He could still shape shift and fight like in his youth, but he wasn't as quick as he once was.
"Guilds are where people who aren't Farmers or Traders find jobs up in the wilds like this Mistress Elf. In the lowlands or cities there's job boards all over to pick and choose from, or potential employers can find you easily. We don't have that closeness in places like Sāmhach or Sėth to the south." Lifting his heavy hand the Werewolf pounded on the Guild's door then took a step back.
A few seconds later a slit opened in the top of the door and a single glowing green eye glared out.
Hasher glared back making sure his face was clear in the torchlight on either side of the door.
"Who goes there?" A young woman's voice sounds from behind the door.
Hasher growled crossing his arms over his chest.
"Open up Shanni you know who I am."
The eye blinked in comprehension, but the door didn't open.
"I know Mr. Wolfgrain, but you know the rules."
The Lycan sighed rubbing the side of his head slowly.
"Fine Hasher Wolfgrain of the Wolfgrain Lycan Clan. I have two Elves with me. Sabin Togar and Yaorlan, they have come to seek help in defending the town from one potentially two great threats."
The young woman hmmed then unlocked the door pulling it in. Taking the lead Hasher led the two warriors out of the night and into the bright warm light of the Red Blade Guild Hall. Stepping out from behind the door the Werewolf nodded to the Tiefling woman (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=12634&page=3&p=2321098&viewfull=1#post2321098) known as Shanni of the Shadows. She nodded back and studied Sabin and Yaorlan before shutting and locking the door behind them and returning to her little stool and mug of ale.
Red Blade Guild Hall was a long building of two stories, almost the entire inside was taken up by the grand meeting table, huge roasting pit, and alcoves filled with smaller tables and rings of chairs. The kitchen, armory, and training rooms were in their own rooms along the back wall and up the flight of carved red wood stairs were the co-ed open bay sleeping bunks and Guildmaster's office. The main floor fires were glowing low and there were only a handful of Mercs present. It was too early in the night for anyone to be asleep so this was all Sabin and Yaorlan had to choose from.
Hasher nodded to the ones he recognized. His nephew Dasher Wolfgrain (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=16&p=2735997&viewfull=1#post2735997) was seated next to Sir West (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=6&p=2725689&viewfull=1#post2725689) the man's long clay colored hair done back in a warrior's bun. An Innkin named Mistress Firegale (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=27&p=2737565&viewfull=1#post2737565), was at one of the long benches her magic tattoos glowing dully in the firelight, she was working on a leg of boar she was eating and the spellsword Irana of the Ghostblade (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79692&page=27&p=2737544&viewfull=1#post2737544) was warming her hands by the fire her usually ever present traveling companion wasn't with her, but he could probably be roped into this defense should he show up.
There were others Hasher didn't know, so looking over at Shanni he asked quite bluntly.
"I know many mercenaries, but those four gathered on the far end of the fire who are they?"
"I duno!", said Shani protesting with her hands and swinging tail, "Shant I'r bei responsive far any washy wosh men here?"
Sabin could hear a faint taint of accent in the way the tiefling lass spoke, and found it to be adorable.
Hasher raised his hands in defense to apologize. He didn't want to upset Shani, and once that girl was on a roll of anger she was unstoppable. He quickly talked in order to calm her down, "Hey, all well, just wondering you know, just curious".
"Please", said the elder gentleman, "allow me to present ourselves", he chuckled softly, "At least those that I know", he coughed softly, "Myself and my traveling companions reached this town not long ago. I heard many tales of the out of reach village in no man's land, and have decided it will be a perfect business opportunity to make myself acquaintance with the fine men and women of the strongest guild in town", he smiled softly, carefully drinking from a goblet made of gold.
Sabin was sure it was a cup he brought himself as to not be poisoned from unknown sources of food and drinks. It was a wise decision, but way too overly protective. This man seemed to have created many enemies over the years to be this paranoid, and he also seemed somewhat sneaky himself (which was ironic, considering that not far from him set a man from the Naga clan).
The old man removed a napkin from his pocket and cleaned his lips from wine drops, "My name is Goliath of the Golden Bar & sons Trading post. I'm sure you've heard of me. My colors are very known and recognized. I am allowed a safe trip almost everywhere, as my products are second to none, and I always keep my debts in check. You can be sure you will get the best good on the finest prices and in the shortest waiting time", he smiled like a wolf, "Granted".
The beautiful lady beside him got up. She was dressed in more or less same colors and fashion style as Goliath, but unlike him she was armed. She bowed while bending her arm to her abdomen, "My lord trader is indeed reliable. I am Alexis, a guardian in the services of Novigard, a kingdom to the far Northern area of the Glacial sea. Here to make sure the lord trader stays safe".
"Hmmm… Novigard, these be the Ice warriors then. I heard the first born girl of their royal house always get some kind of divination powers, and that said girl is always named the queen. I think it's not far from where Gemmy is from", said Yaorlan.
"Gemmy?", Sabin asked surprised.
"Gelmied"
"Gemmy?!", Sabin asked again, her voice higher than before, "Really? Darky I could get, but Gemmy?!"
"Not to your liking?", Yaorlan asked while making a fish face with his lips mimicking a kiss, "Too early for this stage? Or is he playing hard to get?"
"Not even going to bother answering this!", Sabin said, her face emotionless, but her cheeks burnt red upon her dark skin.
"Well", said the other man beside the woman with the blue hair and the trader Goliath, "As, our dear wood elf has mentioned, Lady Alexis is indeed one with the Snow Rangers, or as the common folks know them, Ice Guardians. My name is Vasco, not too bothered with anything, but I am bored, and Goliath pays well, so I am following around", Vasco nodded with his head softly, "This town is in great shortage of important things like medicines, so I do hope this signing of business pact will go well. I believe it to be a good new business partnership for everyone".
"That will be our names", said Goliath, "I hope it answers your questions Mr. …. ?"
"Hasher", said the werewolf, "Hasher Wolfgrain"
"Good and well", said Goliath, drinking some more from his cup.
"And him?", asked Hasher, "Watching the man sitting in the far edges of the room.
"Oh him?", said Vasco, "He is not with us".
"Oh!", said Hasher.
Goliath then got up, "It has been a good conversation gentleman, but I believe we need to sign some documents and time is running short, shall we continue?", he looked at Shani who nodded in return leading them away from the common room.
"May we meet again, and in good terms", Alexis bowed again as the three people left.
"Wait here", said Hasher, "I'll get the man I wanted you to meet".
Both the wood and dark elves set down comfortably, as Sabin glared at the lone figure of the snake man in the distance, "I never thought I'd see one of the ancients here", Sabin said slowly her eyes glowing in silver as she stared at the man in the corner.
The Man from the Naga tribe carefully raised his face. He exchanged gazes with Sabin, and she swallowed softly as she was uncomfortable with the way he looked at her.
"Silver eyes, blood of the Matriarch", he said suddenly
"Err… what?", asked Yaorlan.
The Naga guy chuckled, "Rare they are. Sight of silver, gaze of the twins, the goddess who always at strife – And she… of rare blood, a heir"
Yaorlan was still confused as he looked at Sabin.
"Not an heir, there are others, firsts before me", said Sabin knowing exactly to what the Naga alluding. She was the child of the leader, and by her eyes she was clearly recognized in her blood lineage. She thought this secret will be known to none but her people, but she was proven wrong, still it seems Yaorlan didn't catch any of that. Good.
"Yet you are alone, untrained", said the Naga. In his voice there was clear indication that the "S" was something he used to drag out, like a hissing snake, but he clearly been around humans for long, for his speech seemed to be stabilized without lingering sounds. Still, between few words there were hints of hissing, "I can tell. You are a warrior, but not one who was tainted by blood- Still pure minded. Good, it will serve you well; the others are so easy to fell for what they believe to be the just, doing wrong deeds in the process".
The wood elf was completely lost, but Sabin simply listened, "What do you know of me?"
"Nothing and everything. My words can be used and they can be of no use at all. Yet among us walks one of the blood line. Silver eyes, pure soul, will she be consumed by hate? Will she be the next in line?", the Naga shook his head, "They would not have let someone as rare as you leave for the surface so easily and alone. I can assume either you did a crime of banishment or that the reaper has met the Matriarch. Or maybe something else changed altogether…"
Sabin was shocked.
"Follow the path, you will see it… it will be paved before you".
"What the hell is he yammering all about?", Yaorlan was this close to take his bow and shoot the man in the head. Nothing he said made any sense.
"Man of the wood, parted for foolish reasons, your hope, a beautiful lady, has failed you, just like your family, just like your men in arms".
It was now Yaorlan turn to drop open his mouth with surprise, "Wait, how- Wha-?"
"There will be time to make a stand, you made the first step- follow it, and soon you may be led to another journey, to find your real hope", said the Naga. He then rose from the shadows, his face is lit by the dim light of the lamps, his eyes sparkling and for a moment his visible arms and face were curved in strange greenish tattoos that seemed to be forming some kind of words and texts and symbols, "I be known as Rathma", his body started to disappear into the shadows, "May we meet again ssssssoonnnnnn".
And just like that, he was gone.
***
"We can't find him, captain", said the elf as he bowed his head in front of Denika. He tried his best not peeking, but it was so hard doing so. She especially summoned him into the room, while she herself was barely wearing anything, her body seated in a position that left little to no room for imagination, atop the body of the giant ice elf, who seemed awfully not pleased with being watched while being forced to lie like this.
"Oh well", said Denika, clearly faking a disappointed expression and sound of sadness in her voice, "I'm sure he will be found out eventually".
"Yes ma'am", said the young elf, shaking while bowing.
"Well then, run along, it is night time, and I need you rested so you would be…", she licked her fingers and then placed them on Gelmied's crouch, "Ready… and good", she gave him a naughty look, which made the young elf flinched. He didn't need to be ordered again. He was already too embarrassed that when she allowed him, he completely dashed off out of the room.
Denika laughed like crazy enjoying the show before she completely rode upon Gelmied, not before removing the final cloths both she and him wore, "Did you hear that?", she said as she started to pass her hands over his body, all the while her hands glowing, and in response so did the brand on his back, making the snow elf grunt and wail in pain, "Now where could commander Yaorlan go, I wonder?".
Ever since Gelmied returned from Sabin's room he was a changed man; Almost a different one. It was subtle, but the high elf mage could tell. After all she was extremely intimate with him. For a start, the sex the night before was horrible in so many ways. Truth be told the only good thing about the nights with him was how long he could go, but because his spirit was so down, she was able to get a really rough show if she pushed his buttons right. Hate sex was the best, but she could tell something was off. Before, she could have him react to her so quickly, but now, he seemed like a teenager focused on some lass, and his abilities dropped drastically because of that.
She suspected he was falling for Sabin, after all, his dirk was missing and he seemed so out of it while they both shared a bed- His heart was completely elsewhere. This has never happened before, as she always let her young lady guests to go with him, so she never feared this will happen, but Sabbi proved to be a little trickier. After all, the dark elf has also captured her heart as well.
Still, she had to make sure the reins were placed where they should be, again. Gelmied was needed to have his attention back to her, and if she could no longer draw hate from him, then she decided to go for a meaner methods.
"Do you think, maybe…", she started to suck on his neck, "That our wood elf commander might be having a dark elf companion?", she chuckled, "I figured it will happen one way or another… but maybe Sabin changed him? Maybe even dragged him with her… showing him her curves and those lovely mountains, without veils?"
If she could not have draw hate, she would go for jealousy, one way or another, she will get him to focus on his power again, and be able to satisfy her in the best way possible. She went crazy with the magic on the brand, making sure his brain was too busy with the pain to process the information in a right manner. She wanted him to go wild, and crazy, and jealous, and by the reaction she started to feel as she happily used him while he moved within her to silence the pain, she knew she succeeded.
SikstaSlathalin
12-07-2017, 07:46 AM
"About fucking time he left! He was creeping me out, damn moonbloods." Growled Firegale as she took another bite of the boar leg. The remaining group let out soft chuckles, they agreed with the feisty Inkkin woman, but they just didn't want to say anything. The Naga were almost revered among the other races of Eisignol. But the Inkkin were an ancient and still mostly isolated race living under the sea in a land of endless night and bioluminescence, they knew no fear of any above race. And their magic was quite potent in it's own right and used to compliment their impressive martial skills.
Hasher let the noise die down before clearing his voice and speaking loudly and clearly to the gathered travelers. He wasn't sure who'd be willing to fight one of the most terrifying creatures in the land or square off with a sadistic Captain of the Avelaren military. Dasher would likely sign up as would Firegale, but the others he wasn't so sure about. Sir West was mostly retired and Irana was known for being a shrewd spellsword and never accepts a job unless she knows every detail and can see herself living through it. He didn't know about this Goliath and his two companion, but they would be welcome to join the town's defense or at the very least stay out of the way.
"I don't know how long any of you have been in town, nor do I know how long you plan to stay, but myself and these Elves have come here to seek assistance for a most dire situation. Sāmhach is in danger, we may be in the middle of a battle that could threaten to destroy us."
Dasher hmmed softly, his uncle was never one to start a needless panic so that alone put credence to his words. But this new was something quite out of the blue. As a Thief Catcher, Dasher Wolfgrain was usually up on any and all bad news and he often was the one to pass the word along to his Uncle and the rest of the townspeople. But his informants and contacts have been quiet for weeks and aside from some High Elf Witch almost burning the Old Man's Crook down last month, Sāmhach was it's usual sleepy self.
Hasher only stopped long enough to take a breath and try to find the words he would need next. "As some of you may remember last month a High Elf mage and her squad were denied rooms at the Old Man's Crook. Well as it turns out they are here on the mage's personal vendetta against the Ogre, Y'gol Skullborne that lives far to the North."
Yaorlan nodded adding in his own two cents.
"Indeed, and she's a bonafide psychopath who will gladly burn down this town to get to him."
Hasher nodded.
"And on the other side Y'gol is notoriously hard to kill and a nigh unstoppable force of nature. We do not know what is to come in the next few days, but we do know we have only two days left to fortify the town and mount...some kind of defense. For that we are going to need help, will any of you join us?"
Dasher nodded finishing his drink and retrieving his bow.
"You need only ask for my bow Uncle."
Sir Rookery who'd been silently watching and observing everything grunted lightly.
"I'm with ye Hasher. I'll not let anyone threaten my home."
Mistress Firegale finished ripping the boar's leg apart than tossed the bone into the firepit.
"I'm on vacation here, and there is nothing I hate more than my vacation being interrupted sign me up. I've fought my share of High Elves, this'll be fun."
Irana stood from her spot and nodded as well.
"I will fight, my friend Grey will be returning from Sėth before midnight you can count on him as well."
Hasher smiled softly at the warriors then looked toward Master Goliath and his crew.
"And you three?"
******
As Denika finally exhausted her lusts Gelmied felt once again like a slab of meat or a toy. It is amazing how one can go from sheer joy out of hopelessness right back to hopelessness simply by changing company. But as he told Sabin, he's lived this long in such a life.
It had been a long time since the Captain chose to use magic to bend him to her twisted pleasure. In the end he caved and gave her what she wanted. And he would likely have bruised her in many ways, but Denika liked pain, she had a strange juxtaposition with wanting to be in control and wanting to be forced into submission. She was not unique in this aspect, but every time he saw it, it baffled him, as he slowly worked himself out from under the High Elves nude sweat slick body he let out a long shiver pulling his short-pants back into place. Looks like another sleepless night was ahead of him, so he poured himself some of the Captain's wine and watched the moon as it stared at him through the open window. The Captain's word stung truer than the Snow Elf could ever admit...even to himself, from the Captain's own mouth he knew Yaorlan wasn't a good lover, sure he did the rough stuff well. But his stamina was abysmal, Gelmied was better even when he was a beaten dog.
So that part wouldn't be true, maybe he was more appealing simply because he was a free man and not "broken goods" as he's heard the Captain call him to her friends. That could be true, but the tenderness and genuine feelings he saw and felt from Sabin made him hope it didn't matter to her. And from watching the interactions between Yaorlan and Sabin they despised each other and Sabin was too honest to let such a cheap thing as Hate Sex sway her to bed someone she deemed so repulsive. In most of his heart he knew Sabin wouldn't bed Yaorlan just like he knew she would do good on her word and try to free him, but deep down that broken spirit of a slave still held onto a scornful reminder...he was property and anyone who sees him is against him.
With a deep sigh the Pale One leaned on the window sill sipping the wine. One thing kept nagging in his mind though while he didn't sleep last night he managed to slip away for a small nap around noon and normally when he sleeps it's just blackness, just a lamp being snuffed out to preserve what fuel is left. It's been that way since he left Stormgard, but in that nap he was gifted with a vision from the Sky Father, the Chief deity of the Snow Elves. He's also the patron of Chiefs and the author of fate, and in this vision Gelmied saw himself overlooking the imposing hills of the ancient Elder Peaks to the South. He was not alone though, the squalling of a small child could be heard behind him and the soft but stern voice of a woman calming it. Soon the mother and child joined him on the knoll, she was cloaked but moved with the sure movements of a warrior even burdened with a child that she had just put to suckle at her breast.
He looked and saw the child was darker skinned and had tufts of gray hair poking out from under it's swaddling. A warmth in his heart told him the child was his, but the identity of the mother was denied him. He could sense magic or at least magical blood coming from the child and from the mother and he was not gifted in the Arcane Arts. He reached to pull back the mother's hood, but before he could a harsh yell woke him. Lunch was ready and the Captain was joining them to discuss her new "orders" from the Lady General. They would be moving on Sāmhach at midnight tomorrow, if the people wouldn't willingly tell them where the Orc Cell was they would beat it out of them. Gelmied knew her words were false, but he did not wish to incur her wrath by calling her out. So he kept his mouth shut and focused on deciphering his vision. The only women he's slept with that could potentially create such a young child were Sabin and Denika, and normally Denika activated another cruel level to the brand which magically sterilized him for the length of the deed, but she was unable to last night when he bed Sabin and their passions were too high to worry about preventing pregnancy and tonight Denika was too busy tormenting the pain inducing aspect of his band to activate the sterilization and she always insisted he stay inside her the whole time so she could just ride the waves of pleasure without interruption.
He knows where his seed was planted each and every time, so the mother of his future child could either be his Valkyrie or his tormentor. Once he reached this conclusion he tried to remember the child's features as it suckled. It's dark skin and gray hair could be the product of having a Dark Elf mother and a Snow Elf father easily, but from his own experience under other Masters and Mistresses Half Elves from one Dark Elf parent usually had black or dark blue hair and their skin always had the Dark One's dusky pigmentation. But none of those children had a Snow Elf parent, and since Snow Elves very rarely cross breed with other races no one really knew what such a child would look like. So it's possible that dark gray skin and slate gray hair could be the result of a Snow Elf and a Dark Elf coupling. Sadly on the other hand High Elves have very light skin and hair which isn't a dominate trait since none of the High Elf half-breeds he's seen have taken after their High Elf parent in that aspect, so the child could just be taking after him and still have Denika as it's mother.
His last clue was the magic he sensed from the both the child and it's mother. As much as it made his skin crawl that lent credence to Denika being the mother. As is the case with all High Elves she has very powerful magic in her blood and such a trait would be passed down and amplified in her child as the aura of magic gains strength from the newness and purity of a child and continues to grow if properly nourished. But it wasn't the same malignant aura he senses every time Denika is near, and between couplings with Sabin last night she told him about her mission and how her silver eyes mark her as royalty and royalty among Elves always mean magic is in their blood. And while the aura might not be powerful, Sabin would still pass that spark of magic to her offspring. It would explain the weakness of the auras he sensed and a child of Denika's would be practically glowing with magic. Sadly though the weaker aura could easily be his fault. He has no magic in him and none of his former family had it either, they were warriors from the day they formed out of the tears of the Sky Father. And no matter how powerful the magical parent is the non-magical parent's genes will always dampen it.
The big man finished the glass of wine and poured himself another before taking a seat and beginning to sketch a picture of Denika's naked body. As much as he hated her the Captain was the picture of High Elf beauty luckily she didn't move much in her sleep so he finished the sketch quickly, when he blew the charcoal shavings away though instead of Denika he had drawn Sabin's sleeping form. She was naked too, but there was an innocence to how she laid partially curled into a ball with the covers slipping down her shoulder exposing her chest and side. And her face was the picture of contentment, he stared at the picture for a few seconds his eyes watering at the memory. As he heard Denika make a soft moaning sound in her sleep he quickly hid the drawing among his things and rejoined Captain Destaff in bed. She would likely awaken seeking some more fun, and he would give it to her so as to keep her from tormenting his brand again, but he wouldn't be able to help seeing Sabin in Denika's place. And hearing the cries of his unborn child in his mind.
The old lord merchant smiled like a hungry wolf as he gazed at his two companions. Vasco closed his eyes and nod with agreement, understanding what Goliath had in mind. Alexis however, seemed unsure and puzzled.
"As you can see, I am without weapons. I am much better at holding another type of metals in mind hand", he chuckled as he tapped his coin pouch, "And these two are here for my personal security; I cannot part with them either, you see"
"Lord trader, we-!", Alexis got up to protest but Vasco moved his hand before her putting a finger on his lips, telling her to hush. She tilted her head, but soon caught on the plot. Goliath had a plan in mind.
"But, even though I cannot give you my two warriors, I can do much better", he removed a small cube from his pocket, "And here comes the start of our negation, obviously I cannot simply risk my new investment. And since the pact had been signed, let us move on with the main show".
Goliath gave the cube to Shani, "Give this to the leader of your group and place it on the ground when you head out. This will open a portal, which will connect you to the main road of Novigard. Make sure a mage is there to maintain said portal. Many golem warriors will be traveling into these lands to aid you in this fight with this cube's help", he placed another gem in her hand, "This ruby, fitting of your guild is it not?", he smirked, "It will control the golems that will be moved into these lands, enhancing your small army. I will put it on the tab", he winked, "Well then, we shall part now- There are simply so many things to arrange and discuss. I will send another backup in a week time with medicine and food as agreed, along with additional traders who work for me".
Shani looked up, "T'is far rael?".
Alexis got up, "Yes, this works. It is powerful portable mechanism which links directly to the lab of the Novigard University of Magic; the lord trader has a good trading business with golem clay department. You can be sure that they will be powerful and will protect your city. Make sure not to lose the ruby though as without it, they won't be moved- also once the fight is over close the portal- the golem will disappear then".
"Very well", said Hasher.
Alexis nodded, "As a ranger I feel like it's my duty to stay, but per my queen's order I cannot part from the lord trader. And if he needs to go, I must go with him. But be sure that the gift he gave you is a worthy one".
"Costly too", Shani narrowed her eyes. She didn't like the whole deal of it, but so far only the trader had been brave enough to venture here to start a trade. They needed him badly and he knew it.
The trio had shaken hands with everyone and left before dark. Hasher then led both Sabin and Yaorlan back to the inn.
"You look troubled".
"I am… I feel like one way or another someone will get hurt", she swallowed, "I feel like all the players in this game have been joined together into a fight they cannot flee from, but at the same time I don't hate any of them. Y'gol is not the monster everyone makes him to be. I learned this the moment I saw him again and he showed me his side of reason. I mean… He raised Guk-Guk too…"
"In a very bad way…"
"True. But look at this town. This town is not one to simply accent you. If you were born into the wrong color or the wrong race you'd be considered an outcast, and hardly anyone will open the door for you… And yet that monster not only showed pity to the half goblin girl, but he also… took her in as his own.", Sabin also recalled of the way Y'gol looked at her body when they first met. There was some kind of indication of reason there too (along with lust), aside of his cannibal manners. But perhaps it was better not to mention this to the wood elf.
"And Denika?", Yaorlan chuckled, "That selfish bastard…"
"She is really hurt too, Yaorlan", Sabin sighed, "She lost someone pernicious…."
"We all did, Darky, it doesn't mean we go all berserk and full of vengeance because of it", the wood elf said slowly, "I mean, if it was only her that she'd drag along that path… so be it… but she is a leader- She is expected to behave above it. The life of my men been used for her personal ways… And let's not talk about a particular snow elf…"
"I know… But at the same time, I cannot bring myself to hate her… Only… only be disappointed with her actions"
"You are something else, darky…"
"Maybe, but don't be mistaken. When push comes to shove, in order to protect others I will run my swords into her and into the ogre".
"You've been through this before, haven't you?"
"I have…", Sabin shook her head, "It was not pleasant, but it was the right thing to do."
"Yeah… Dark elves are extremely messy when they need to be"
"You never told me… how do you know so much about us?"
"I was a prisoner. You learn many things when you watch behind bars"
"That can't be!", Sabin's eyes opened wide, "We… we never take prisoners- Obviously we don't always kill, but… we simply don't believe in catching of the body and mind", Sabin flinched, "How can it be? Practice of hypnosis, or charm spells… or even such things… are so controlled and-!"
"I understand that, Darky", said Yaorlan, "It could either be a case of you simply following the rules, or that particular guild of dark elves simply did not", he tried to recall, "Are you all located in one area?"
"Oh no, we have few clans, all led by different matriarchs. If a good candidate is not found within one clan, we often send fitting lass to such remote areas to support the families of our other kin".
"I see, and I guess all of you have different banners and names?"
"Exactly", Sabin took out a silver necklace from under her shirt, showing two moons touching each other, "We are the clan of the twin moons, Qumran"
"Hmph...", he seemed somewhat disturbed, "They called themselves the New Moon tribe, Molad"
Sabin stopped while walking, "What?"
"Yes…".
Sabin opened her mouth few times, "They are known as a new guild that seeks improvements in the old believes and the methods of the whole race. We barely had contact with them but we heard they did horrible things, according to the rumors… From the words of our scouts, I heard they openly declared to be responsible of some bad activities… which they seem to believe are a good methods to justify what they hope to achieve. Lately however, they have gone… almost incognito. No one heard of them but a few whispers…", Sabin shook her head, "I believe they are responsible for the death of my mother, but since we have no real proofs no one took any action".
"That's the first time I hear about your mother, I'm sorry".
Sabin gave a sad smile, "It is fine. She's been sick for some time now. Maybe her death was a gentler way to go… But… Please, let us go back to what you said about you been taken as a prisoner…"
"They have gathered us in some remote location… Humans, elves and many other races. They butchered them all, sacrificing them to some god or another. Upon said alter they also held a young woman of their clan, dark elf which also had silver eyes. She seemed to be somewhat mesmerize… as if put by a spell so she won't resist. After some more sacrifices of innocents, some kind of a link between worlds was created, which was directly connected with the young silver eyed elf.
A… being… astral projection of some sort, something they refer to as their "lady" tried to manifest herself within the captured dark elf. But something went wrong or that their spell was incomplete. The young woman died as the spirit wailed in anger, telling them that the vessel was not fitting, that they need to find another of the pure Blood Line"
"That's horrible".
"During the havoc, some kind of a spark, maybe magic gone astray hit the cell of which myself, and several other, been captured. Seeing how powerful they were, we didn't even bothered with trying to free the others, we simply ran outside. Each time they captured someone, I increased my speed, hoping I won't be next. At the end only three of us survived, they were part of my old squad; high elves in the service of the queen. All of us returned to report the Captain, but by that time Denika had already set her mind to come here, so this whole incident was pushed aside altogether… I didn't even have time to give my full report".
"So among all those people, there were your men as well? No wonder they don't trust you".
"I am not proud of this, darky", said Yaorlan, "When I first saw you, I was this close to just shoot… But your silver eyes protected you. I understood the silver eyes meant something. See all those dark elves had golden eyes. So when I first saw you, I figured there was no way for you to be linked to them. They would have not let you leave their side. I thought there will be no way for them to let another woman with silver eyes to leave. Obviously I still didn't trust you back then, though".
"Well, good thing you didn't shoot the arrow then", Sabin smiled.
"Bah!", Said Yaorlan, "So what is the significant of the silver eyes, darky?".
"They are rare, and only appear on those born of royal blood line- And, obviously, not all those born of the royal bloodline will have silver eyes. They are common attribute for Matriarchs, but they are not the main reason for which a child is chosen as a leader. It does help though"
"So… adding all that you've said up until now, and those words of the crazy Naga, can I assume your mother was a Matriarch?"
"She was"
Yaorlan chuckled, "So, what? Are you some kind of a princess then?".
Sabin smiled, "It does not work like that, but I do have a claim to the throne, yes. Obviously there are many in line before me, and right now I don't think of this at all".
"You'd make a good leader one day, darky".
"Thank you, Yaorlan", Sabin nodded, "But the probability of it happening is extremely low", she smiled, "And personally I think it's for the better"
"Good leaders are always very modest", the wood elf's face become serious, "That's how crazy ones ending up getting the reins instead"
"One thing I do wonder on all that you've told me is this: That dark moon clan tried to gave a mortal shell to a powerful being, a goddess maybe? That only means that said being is trapped, do you recall of anything else related to it?"
"Only her name… something like Lilvanni maybe?"
"Interesting… That would be the name of one of the moon sisters. Moladya represents darkness and the night with no moon. Her sister is called Lilvanni which and she represents the full gleaming moon"
"I know very little of you myths"
"There are many tales of the twin sisters, but there is one I really like. It's actually a very sweet story about the frozen sea who fall in love with the bright silver sister. Her twin was so envious she repulsed the sea away, and while they entangle in the sky between darkness and brightness of the night, the blue sea always searching for his beloved within each night"
"Guys, I hate stopping you, but where're here. Get some rest for tomorrow is going to be an eventful day", said Hasher.
They all reached into the Inn, Yaorlan and Sabin parted ways as each entered his/her own room.
As the two Elves went their separate ways Hasher sought out Xandra to fill her in on what transpired and check on her progress with spreading the word around Sāmhach about the oncoming dangers they may be facing. He found her sitting with Guk-Guk by the fire, the drunks had all gone home or stumbled off to their rooms so the two could have some quiet time.
As the Werewolf walked up he couldn't help but smile at how nice the scene looked. Xandra was wrapped in a blanket and skillfully carving a small doll with a steaming cup of cider on the small table besides her. And Guk-Guk was still dressed in her leather wrapping across her small breasts and around her hips, but she didn't have her fur gauntlets on or her fur scarf. She looked quite happy playing with another toy this one a little rougher and looks like a black teddy bear with a skull helmet on. It looked like a cuddly version of Y’gol.
The child was humming softly to herself when Hasher approached. He smiled down and patted Guk-Guk’s head.
“Hey there kid, mind if I talk to Xandra in private? Sabin and Yaorlan are back if you want to talk with them.”
Smiling gently at the man the girl stood up and quickly ran up behind Sabin and sprang from the floor up onto the woman’s back. She wrapped her arms around the Dark Elf’s shoulders her little Y’gol doll proudly staring Sabin in the eyes.
“Heya Saba, Guk-Guk wonder when you come back. How you like Guk-Guk’s toy it Papa Bone!”
“Guk-Guk!”, Sabin said, cradling the girl in her arm as she gently took her down, “Guk-Guk, it is rude to jump on people like that”, she kissed the girl on the forehead, “But that doll looks cute”, she smiled, “It is important to you, is it not?”
Guk-Guk pouted as Sabin took her in her arms, but smiled at the kiss on her forehead. She cuddled into Sabin’s chest some nodding slowly as she made the toy dance across her tummy.
“Yush, Guk-Guk make it when Papa Bone take her in.” The girl giggled at the memory. “Papa Bone start making it for Guk-Guk, but his hands too big. He find rat skull for Guk-Guk to use for hat doh.” She held the toy up and knocked on the clean skull letting Sabin hear the hollow sound. “Does Saba have toy of her papa?” The half-breed asked innocently her hands poking around Sabin’s body as if the toy might be stashed somewhere.
“Yes I do”, Sabin removed her small necklace, “Isn’t it pretty? My father was a blacksmith. He hunted down the minerals himself, do you like it Guk-Guk?”
The child’s eyes sparkled a little as she placed her toy on her stomach and lifted the necklace admiring it. She’s found shiny stones and bits of metal like this in and around Papa’s den, her keen goblin mind was always eager to tinker with them and try to piece them together into. But jewelry making required a forge and tools little Guk-Guk just didn’t have.
“Yush Guk-Guk like much, Papa Bone have a necklace too, but is not as nice.” She placed the necklace back and grabbed her toy slipping out of Sabin’s arms and gripping the woman’s hands smiling. “Come Guk-Guk show Saba to her room!” With a smile the Dark Elf allowed the girl to lead her up the steps and down the hall. They stopped at the second room from the end the last room had a smaller door and looked more like a broom closet. The little Goblin used the key and unlocked Sabin’s door dragging the Assassin in after her. The room was medium sized but spartanly furnished. It had a single bed, big enough for two people, and an open closet with an empty metal bar to hang clothes from. The last bits of furniture were a small table by the bed and a single chair besides it.
“Here you go Saba, right next to Guk-Guk’s room. You get comfy Guk-Guk bring Saba warm washbin!” She placed her toy on the table making it face the door and pointing an authoritative finger at the motionless little toy. “You maka sure no one bother Saba while she get in her shift lil’ Bone! And you no look either!” With that Guk-Guk exited the room.
Sabin smiled. There was something about this little girl that made her very happy. Usually Sabin did not think of it, but the idea of having a child was very appealing. Obviously the time was never right, and neither were her partners.
She looked at the big barrel at the edge of the room, which was set upon burning coals. Perfect to be used to fill water with, and take a warm bath. She carefully unbuckled her breast-plate and put it in the closet, along with the rest of her gear and weapons. The dirk she got as a gift from the snow elf, however, she placed by the small table near her bed, making sure it was within her sight range at all time.
She set on the bed as she removed her boots and the lingerie was all that was left only wearing small underclothes and her tight gown.
She started to fill the barrel with water, setting the coals on fire and breathing softly on it, to increase the heat. She dipped her fingers into the water, waiting for them to get warm. Once they were she started to get undress of her remaining cloths.
A few seconds later Guk-Guk pushed Sabin’s door open with her foot and stumbled in carrying a washbin that look bigger than her and was filled with warm steaming water, small rose petals floating around it. Her half Orc strength aiding her a good deal as she placed the bin on the table. The girl spilt a little bit on herself and the floor, but not enough to be of danger.
She watched Sabin get undressed the rest of the way studying the woman’s more developed body. She’d never seen a naked adult women before, walking up she squeezed Sabin’s chest cursorily then pulled her leather chest wrap down some squeezing her own buds frowning a little. “When Guk-Guk get big like Saba? Saba look bigger than Ms. Puppet.”
“Well- it’s!”, Sabin blushed heavily, putting the clothes back on, “Guk-Guk, honey, you need to knock first before entering a room, okay sweetheart”.
Guk-Guk giggled at Sabin's blushing. Modesty was always an amusing thing for the little half-breed to see. Even Papa Bone had some when it was his bathtime, Guk-Guk usually bathed before Papa and he usually put the girl to bed before he had his turn. But she snuck out a couple of times and wanted to try and scare him, but he always knew she was coming and covered himself.
Sabin marked for the girl to move closer to her as she hugged her, “All ladies have different sizes and shapes of breasts, and all the shapes are good, and yes, you will have your breasts bigger as you grow too”, she smiled.
The little girl happily accepted the hug. "Guk-Guk sorry but washbin heavy even for big strong Guk-Guk. Guk-Guk couldn't knock." She knew she should probaly leave Sabin to bathe in peace but she had lots of questions Ms. Puppet was usually too busy to answer. So after she pulled her bindings back in place she grabbed her toy and sat on the edge of Sabin's bed covering her eyes. "Guk-Guk covers eyes so Saba no be red. And Ms. Puppet tell Guk-Guk she grow bigger soon too, but Guk-Guk not believe her. Other girl's Guk-Guk's be bigger, they have bumpy hips too and getta wear real umdertings. Guk-Guk wanna too, people say Guk-Guk look like boy then Guk fighta dem makea dem stop." There was a hint of sadness in her voice as she kicked her feet over the edge of the bed.
"There there", Sabin kissed the girl's head, "You'd grow I'm sure of it", she smiled to her, "Be a beautiful strong lass, because you are amazing girl, Guk-Guk".
SikstaSlathalin
12-09-2017, 01:33 AM
The little girl glowed at Sabin's kind words and affections. Papa Bone was like her there, but hearing the words and feeling the soft motherly presence of a woman who seemed to care for her was a sensation she often dreamed about. Ms. Puppet was kind and affectionate too, but more like an elder sister than a mother. The girl hugged Sabin fiercly nuzziling her chest again. "You so nice to Guk-Guk Saba! But you best get in your baf before the water gets cold. Guk-Guk keep eyes closed til you in. Can Guk-Guk stay and talk with Saba while Saba bafes please?" The little Goblin giggled giving the Elf a little push towards the barrel and her awaiting bath water.
Sabin chuckled softly.
What was the problem with the girl staying? When she was little most of the girls took bath together in shared room, and some even continued to do so when they grew older Sabin included.
Sabin was also not too embarrassed with exposing herself either, as from young age she'd learned to use her body as tool in her mission.
She looked at Guk-Guk with accepting eyes. The little girl probably had tons of unanswered questions, which she lacked mother teaching for. Even though Sabin had a mother, the rank of her leadership position always made her somewhat far, as if she was not there. Even with other elder dark elven women, it still felt alone, even though everyone lived together as one big family.
"Guk-Guk, have you taken a bath already? Do you want us to share it together?", she asked with a smile.
SikstaSlathalin
12-09-2017, 06:29 AM
Now it was Guk-Guk's turn to blush. The girl was at a loss, not even Papa Bone shared a bath with her. He would help her, but never got in with her. She did need a bath herself and if she had one before Ms. Puppet told her to maybe she'd be allowed to stay up a little later with Saba.
Hoping from the bed she nodded.
"Sure, but Guk-Guk need hers jammies to change ito first." Taking her lil bone she exited Sabin's room and darted next door to her own little room. There was some bumping around next door for a few seconds before the girl got what she needed and returned remembering to knock on the Elf woman's door causing Sabin to laugh a little.
"Come in Guk-Guk." The door opened and the half Orc slipped back in carrying a faded blue nightie that looked to belong to a full grown woman before it got into the child's hands. It was cut short and by looking it seemed to go to about Guk-Guk's mid-thigh.
She placed to nighte on the bed and she was without lil Bone at the moment. The girl began wiggling out of her leather chest wrappings and underwraps smiling. "Guk-Guk put lil Bone to bed so we no need worry about a boy spying on us." The child let out another giggle as kicked her wrappings aside and bounced around in the nude for a few seconds before walked to the barrel testing the water with her hand.
"Still nice and hot, so Saba not red now?" She said studying Sabin's body again still hoping she gets big like Saba soon.
Sabin was really happy with the fact the small goblin knocked. She had indeed proved to be a good girl who just needs a bit more training on that regard.
She found the whole scenario extremely adorable and once Guk-Guk got back into her room, she heated the burning coals some more, waiting for steams to start rising upward.
"Okay, I think the water is warm! Shall we dive in?"
***
As they were both in the wooden tube, the water rising a little above their necks, Sabin reached her hand for the containers with the soap and took a sponge in her other hand, "Turn around Guk-Guk, I'll scrub you!".
The little goblin did as was told as the elf started to help the young girl clean herself, "Mama bathed with Guk-Guk too".
"Of course she did", Sabin said as she sprinkled water on the girl's back and lifted her arm to scrub her hand, "Your mother must have been a very amazing woman".
The little goblin nodded with excitement, turning around instantly almost making Sabin spill the soap on her, "Yes, she'was. Making shinies, clocking things, many come shop, all wanting mommy fix".
Sabin smiled, but it was a sad smile, "Did you enjoy watching her making things?"
The goblin squealed with excitement, "Yes, Yes, Momma made pretty thing, with noises or no noises, cutting things too".
Sabin pointed at the dirk by the dresser, "Like these?"
"Yes, and bigger too!", Guk-Guk said happily, "I love mak'ing things and help mama"
"I'm sure you can make beautiful things. Like I told you, my father was a blacksmith, and he used to make a lot of objects, not just weapons. He also made the wedding ring of my mother; it was made of the purest diamond he found in the mine"
"Yur' papa and mama were mate?"
Sabin was careful in her words, recalling the sad story of Guk-Guk's mother having to raise her child alone, "Yes. They were very much in love, and raised their children together", she smiled, "You will find a mate too when you grow old, but don't settle for anyone, only pick the one who will make you happy".
"Guk-Guk dain't need mate, Guk-Guk have papa bone".
Sabin smiled. At this age young girls are usually more attached to their father figure than any ideal romantic figure. In Guk-Guk case this was probably going to last much longer than needed, "Hehe, you will see, you will fall in love"
"Saba, love her mate?", Guk-Guk asked suddenly.
"Well… I don't really have a partner now… But there is someone whom I think I'm beginning to care much for".
They rose slowly from the tube, both dripping water on the floor as they reach for the towels. Sabin wrapped two around herself and her hair, as she helped the young girl to wipe herself clean.
"Is it Yaory?"
Sabin took a moment to realize that Guk-Guk was referring to Yaorlan, "Oh. Well, no. He is charming in his own way. But… I think on someone else right now", Sabin giggled, "He has blue skin, and a very beautiful silver hair"
"Be he prince?"
Sabin chuckled, making the girl sit near her lap, so she could start brushing her hair, "Maybe. He sure needs to be rescued like a royalty though", Sabin passed her fingers into the goblin's hair, "But I don't mind. I want to help him. Even if he doesn't see me as possible partner, he was indeed fascinating. I would like to grant him the gift of freedom".
While Sabin fixed her hair, Guk-Guk found the dirk and started to pass her fingers over the blade.
"Careful you don't cut yourself"
"I're won't!", she said protesting, "Guk-Guk want this!", she pulled it up in the air, looking at it as if it was a shining golden coin.
"I'm sorry", Sabin said. She gently took away the dirk and put it down, "Remember the prince I told you about?"
Guk-Guk nodded.
"It was a gift", Sabin said. "You understand, don't you?"
"Wedding gift?", Guk-Guk asked with an excited expression.
Sabin chuckled, "No, but it is special still", Sabin then raised her hands around her neck and took off her necklace and put it in Guk-Guk hands, "Here, I'll give you this instead of the dirk. It fits girls better no?"
Guk-Guk looked at the necklace. It was indeed very beautiful, but she knew how much Saba liked it and how it reminded her of her father. If Sabin's father was anything like papa bone, he must have been someone very dear to her, one whose gift you need to cherish, "Guk-Guk dian't need it", she gave the necklace back, "Guk-Guk will learn. Make better things. Guk-Guk give to Saba for wedding".
Sabin chuckled as she kissed the girl's head, and then she continued to brush her hair, "So be it", Sabin smiled, "You will study hard and open your own shop. You won't steal, and make money on your own. Everyone will know you for your amazing skill, and you will make a lot of people happy"
"Like Mommy!"
"Yes, like your mother".
There was a knock on the door, as Xandra opened it slowly, "I'm sorry to disturb you Sabin, I just can't find Guk-Guk and I was wondering if-!"
"Ms. Puppet!", Guk-Guk jumped to hug the purple haired lady, "Saba made my hair in braid, it's pretty!".
"Yes. Yes it is", Xandra ruffled the little girl's hair, "I'm sorry, she can be a bit clingy and-!"
"No, everything is okay", Sabin smiled, "We had lots of fun, didn't we Guk-Guk!"
"Yes!", the child screamed with happiness.
"Good, now you are going to sleep, don't you?"
"Yes Saba"
***
After the two left, Sabin turned to fix her own hair and get herself ready to bed. Truth be told Sabin usually liked to just lie naked, and once her hair was also picked in a long braid she did just that, covering herself with a long blanket.
The day seemed to end, but it felt like nothing was really settled. She looked at the moon that peeked from her room's window. It was almost empty and small…
Sabin hoped it was not a bad sign.
SikstaSlathalin
12-10-2017, 12:48 AM
Xandra took Guk-Guk by the hand and bid Sabin good night before she took the little girl next door to tuck her in. Which normally wasn't hard, but the little girl was so excited from spending such a fun time with Sabin she was a little wound up still.
Xandra set about getting Guk-Guk's clothing folded and ready for tomorrow while the girl admired the braid Sabin had turned her little mohawk of hair into she was sure Papa Bone would like it too. She was just dressed in her nightie with some clean underwrappings for underwear and she always loved how the warm fabric of the nightie felt against her skin. Soon Xandra was done setting Guk-Guk's clothes out for tomorrow and picked the girl up giving her a quick hug.
"Ok kiddo time for bed, you'll need to be well rested for all the fun you're gonna have tomorrow."
Guk-Guk wriggled in Xandra's hug giggling. This has really been one of the best nights of her young life, and she was still too fired up. "Guk-Guk can no sleep! Too happy Saba gonna get married as soon as she find her Prince."
The Puppet Master laughed putting the girl into her little bed.
"Really Ms. Sabin has a Prince now?"
Guk-Guk bobbed her head happily.
"Yush, he give her big knife an e'rething! She just need rescue him, Guk-Guk will help her!"
Xandra laughed again, she wondered what she and Sabin had been talking about the whole evening.
"Rescuing a Prince huh? Well then you'll need your rest so you can fight whoever has him now won't you?"
The little girl smirked picking up Lil Bone.
"Ms. Puppet so smart, but you know Lil Bone needs story first or he neva sleep."
Xandra shook her head smiling.
"Well we don't want Lil Bone to be cranky in the morning. So you and him get snuggly under the blankets and I'll think of a good story for you." She grabbed the small chair from Guk's vanity and set it down by the bed.
Guk-Guk did as she was asked and settle down under the covers covering her toy's body so he wouldn't be cold. Once she saw they were set Xandra cleared her throat and tucked the child and her toy in.
"Good girl, ok here's a story I was told when I was your age. Once upon a time there was a clever fox and a silly old Rooster. Every day the Rooster would climb to the highest part of his house and argue with the sun. He would argue at the top of his voice all morning, now the other farm animals were used to it and just ignored him. But the poor fox worked all night charting the stars above."
Guk-Guk smiled some of her hair falling into her face
"Why fox chart stars?"
The Mage smiled brushing the hair back.
"He was a Mage like me, and the stars tell Mages when their magic is at it's strongest. Now shut your eyes and let me finish silly girl."
Guk-Guk snuggled a little under the covers smiling cheekily.
"Sorry."
Picking up where she left off Xandra smiled.
"Anyway because the fox worked all night he liked to sleep during the day. But the rooster made that impossible. Now this was a nice fox so he first tried to ask the Rooster to stop. He walked to the fence between the farm and the forest and hailed the old bird.
"Ho, my fine feathered friend." He said being as loud and clear as he could. The Rooster clucked and haughtily walked down from his perch his beak lifted high as if he thought the fox was stinky. "What do you want land walker." The Rooster said meanly.
The Fox maintaining his manners nodded gently.
"I apologize for disturbing you my friend, but can I ask you to not crow so loudly every morning?"
The Roosted bucked indigently.
"Why on earth would I do that?! I have a duty to the world far above the likes of you fox."
Once again maintaining his manners though his tail flicked with some annoyance.
"I understand that, but I'm a Star mage and my duty requires me to work all night. So I must sleep during the day, and your crowing wakes me up. I'm not asking you to stop, just do it more quietly."
Once again the silly old Roosted bucked, he was too proud to listen to a lowly fox.
"I will do as I please peasant, now leave before I call the dogs to tear your tail off!"
The Fox frowned.
"If you only use your voice talk down on others my friend you will lose it." And then he left.
The Rooster scoffed and thought nothing more of the Fox. In fact the next day he screamed even louder into the sky making sure the entire forest could hear him. It awakened the poor fox, but he knew talking with the bird was hopeless so he would let it slide for another few weeks simply hoping the bird would simmer down.
Unfortunately he did not, every day he crowed louder and louder even beginning to annoy the other farm animals with his ceaseless noise. Many thought it would never end until one day the Rooster went to his perch and tried to crow, but only a strained squawk came out. Shocked he tried again and again, but the squawk grew weaker and weaker with each try until only air escaped his beak. In a panic he flapped from the perch and ran through the farm yard trying to get someone to help him. But no one could understand him. Soon the Rooster had all but exhausted himself running around the farm. Eventually he found his way back to his house and saw the fox leaning on the bottom board of the fence smiling at him.
Outraged the bird charged the fox and wanted to attack him. But the clever Fox was just bounced out of reach continuing to smile at the bird.
"I told you my friend, if you didn't change you would lose your voice."
The bird puffed himself up and tried to yell some more, but still no sound came out.
The fox shook his head.
"I did not curse you Rooster, but I can fix you. All you need to do is promise me you'll be quiet from now on."
The Rooster puffed up and shook his head sticking his nose into the sky.
The Fox shrugged and began walking away.
"Suit yourself."
Finally the bird relented and clacked his claws on the wood to bring the fox back.
With a sly smile the Fox turned.
"Do you promise to be quieter?"
The bird nodded and with a swish of his tail the fox cast a spell and the bird's voice suddenly returned. He crowed with glee and danced around declaring his voice had returned. And at dawn of the next day he went to crow as loudly as before, but he remembered the deal and simply crowed loud enough to wake the farmer and the animals. Leaving the clever fox to sleep peacefully in his den.
Xandra had been watching Guk-Guk slowly drift to sleep and her eyes drooped one last time at the end of the story. Leaning down Xandra pulled the covers up so the girl was nice and warm then kissed her head softly and slipped quietly out the door.
****
A few hours later when the moon was high in the sky and the stars shone with a cold almost menacing light. The rest of the Inn was soundly asleep, but one little girl was tossing and turning in her bed kicking the covers off and allowing her toy to fall from her limp hand. Guk-Guk usually slept soundly, but tonight was different.
Glowing light of a distance fire...screaming people...the smell of smoke. These filled the air of a small clockshop darkened and barricaded from danger. It was stuffy and warm inside the clock shop, and only a single candle besides a small bed gave any comfort. Seated in the candlelight a Goblin woman was holding a small sword towards the door with one hand while the other slowly pet the head of a little girl.
This was Jik-Jik, Guk-Guk's mother. She looked like Guk-Guk just with purple eyes and a fully grown body. Her hair was long and had a tint of purple to it, Guk-Guk always liked her mother's hair and has tried growing it that long, but her running around makes long hair bad. The sounds of angry men and people screaming could be faintly heard coming through the walls, Jik-Jik put the light out and picked her daughter up trying to sneak deeper into the shop. The shop had a backdoor, and they had almost made it, but the sounds of angry men reached the small door and their torches filled the windows.
Jik-Jik ran for the back door just as the front door burst inwards and angry black shadows stormed through the small opening rushing towards Jik-Jik and Guk-Guk. But the Goblin had her hand on the door and ripped it open running into the burning city. Balefire was in the throes of rebellion and it was no longer safe for the girl. Guk-Guk felt fear for the first time and it quickly filled her little heart, but having her mother there helped. Guk-Guk was tucked into Jik-Jik's arms as they ran through the windy backalleys and smokey streets rushing for the town borders.
Guk-Guk could hear the shadows shouting and swearing at them. The girl didn't know why they were after her and her mother, but she could tell they wanted to hurt them. Jik-Jik kept running faster and faster as the shadows closed in on them. Guk-Guk could see their rough angry faces behind them. Guk-Guk cried loudly Jik-Jik pulled her head down and quickened her pace again.
Soon they reached the edge of town and Guk-Guk saw a kindly man waiting them with a horse drawn cart. The man shouted for them an Jik-Jik jumped to him. The pair madeit safely onto the wagon and for the first time in aa long time Jik-Jik smiled. She leaned in and kissed Guk-Guk on the forehead as the man snapped his horse into a run. But the shadows weren't done yet. As Jik-Jik's lips left her daughter's head a wet sound filled their ears and a warm wetness splattered across the girl's face. Guk-Guk watched in horror as her mother's eyes rolled back in her head and she fell off the back of the wagon an evil black arrowhead sticking out from between her breasts.
Guk-Guk jumped after her dying mother, but found herself on the cold wood floor of her room. She frantically searched the room her face scrunched in pain and fear. It took her a few seconds before she woke up more. She cried softly into the shadows. "Papa!" Usually when she had nightmares Papa Bone was already by her side to comfort her before she even awoke. But she was in town and he wasn't, the dream was still fresh in her mind and soon she saw the shadow men began skulking from the corners of her room she grabbed Lil Bone and ran next door to Sabin's room. She quickly open the door and dove in closing it behind her and curling into a ball begining to cry again.
"Saba...*sob*... shadow men try...*sob*... get Guk-Guk like dey...*cry*... get Momma!"
What would you expect from a trained assassin having someone burst into her room in the middle of the night? That's right, go for the blades.
Thankfully Guk-Guk was way too quick for Sabin to arm herself and by so, didn't have the time to use the swords or the dirk and intimidate the little girl even further.
Before long the girl was already hugging her, and the elf was lost for words, for which she only could pet her head gently, "Calm down, Guk-Guk".
The door then opened again suddenly, "Darky, you okay, I heard- WHOA!", the wood elf blushed from ear to ear gazing away, "I didn't know you slept without -!"
"Yaorlan", Sabin said seriously, ignoring the fact she was nude, "Are there any men outside? Are we under attack?"
"Err… no…? I just heard noises and wanted to check". His ears (well, one and a part) burnt red as he tried his best to keep his gaze busy at his feet.
"Oh, just a nightmare then", Sabin said with a smile, "Everything is fine then".
"Yeeaaahhh", the wood elf turned around walking back to his room, "I'll just--- you know, take my leave and-!"
"Thank you for worrying about us!", Sabin got up to close the door behind him. She used the oil lamp to light the room as she started to put some cloths. She then poured milk in a jug beside her dresser and gave it to the young girl to drink, "It's okay sweetie, you only had a dream. Nothing will hurt you".
SikstaSlathalin
12-11-2017, 12:07 AM
Guk-Guk was too shaken to take note of Yaorlan or take the offered milk. She simply clung to Sabin weeping into the fold of her gown.
"No no! Not dream! It real! Bad shadows kill Guk-Guk's momma!" She buried her face deeper into Sabin's legs. Putting the jug on the floor she picked the little girl and hugged her close shushing the child's sobs and stroking her hair slowly.
Soon she had managed to quiet the half Goblin enough so she wouldn't wake up the rest of the inn. With a few more soft sniffles Guk-Guk finally quieted her eyes were still red and full of tears, but she had stopped shaking so much. The Dark One was at a lose to what could shake such a formally brave little girl so much. She slowly sat down on the edge of the bed moving Guk-Guk from her hip to her lap holding the terrified little girl close to her chest stroking down her head and back.
"No one will harm you here", Sabin said slowly, "Your Pappa and friends will protect you".
She didn't want to make the child talk if she didn't want to, "I'm here for you too, and if you want you can stay here with me", Sabin smiled still petting the girl's hair, "If you want to talk or just sleep, it's fine as well"
SikstaSlathalin
12-11-2017, 04:27 AM
Guk-Guk sniffed nodding her head slowly. Sabin lifted the girl up and laid down on her side letting the child curl into her body some more her small arms wrapping around the Dark Elf's waist. Guk-Guk tucked her head underneath Sabin's chin and simply held her close listening to the steady thump of Sabin's heart letting it calm her down.
Sabin hasn't dealt with many children let alone terrified children she needed to comfort. But the motherly instinct that has slowly been awakening in her since she met Guk-Guk knew just what to do without Sabin even thinking about it. Kissing Guk's head softly she continued to pet the girl's hair and wrapped her free arm around Guk-Guk's narrow body holding it close to the warmth of her own body. She began rocking gently in the bed and stared humming a soft song for the trembling child.
Sabin didn't bother keeping track of the time the two of them spent in silence. But soon Guk-Guk's eyes were dry and she was shaking anymore, but she still held tight to Sabin as if the shadows might try to take her away too. Soon the Elf heard a small choked voice.
"Guk-Guk sorry she not knock."
Sabin chuckled lifting the girl's head and kissing her nose.
"It's ok Guk-Guk, you were scared. I know you didn't mean to barge in. "
The little girl began nibbling on Lil Bone's paw.
"Guk-Guk miss momma so much."
Sabin nodded kissing the child's head again.
"I understand, I miss my mother too."
Looking up the half-breed sniffed back half a sob.
"What happened to Saba's momma?"
The Dark One wasn't sure how to word the response. The last thing she wanted was to scare Guk-Guk again. But honesty is something she always tried to use.
"She was killed, bad shadows got her too."
Guk-Guk pressed her head against Sabin's chest.
"Why?"
Sabin shrugged frowning gently.
"I don't really know, but I am trying to find out."
The girl continued to suck on her toy's paw.
"Guk-Guk don't know too."
The woman stroked the girl's head slowly feeling her loosening up. Maybe Sabin could help the girl.
"You want to tell Saba about it? I know it's a painful memory, but sometimes when we're sad or scared talking about it with someone who cares about us can really help?"
Guk-Guk smiled softly looking into Sabin's face with what the Elf might call hope.
"Saba care about Guk-Guk?"
"Of course I do, now come on let it all out." Sabin said smiling down at the girl.
Snuggling into Sabin's chest Guk-Guk brought her hand up to grip onto Sabin's breast and shirt for comfort.
"Many year ago, Guk-Guk live with Momma in city call Ballfire by sea. Smelly place and no one smile, Momma ownded clock shop and she raise Guk-Guk. Momma's named was Jik-Jik and many men like her, she was very pretty like Saba, but look more like Guk-Guk. Ballfire always fulla of fightin' an Momma keep Guk-Guk in shop mosta time." The began to sniffle again squeezing Sabin tighter as she relieved the dream. "But then one night, big fight start. Shadow men set tings on fire, break houses...hurt people. They come for Momma and Guk-Guk, but Momma smart and quick like Guk-Guk...*sniffle*. She get Guk-Guk to one of her friend's carts...then they kill her." Guk-Guk began to sob softly and Sabin simply laid their silently comforting her again letting the tears run their course.
A few minutes passed before Guk-Guk managed to regain her control again a wet spot already formed in the middle of Sabin's gown. "Then Guk-Guk get passed from friend of Momma to friend of Momma, it last a few months then Sabin came to last man, he was friend of last friend not friend of Momma and he do...bad things to Guk-Guk." She whined gently pressing her legs together as it stop someone from getting between them. Her tears began anew but she kept talking this time. "He hit Guk-Guk when she cry sometimes, or when Guk-Guk get in his way. And other times he make Guk-Guk do...naughty things ." She could say anymore before her tears overcame her again.
Sabin's eyes watered a little, but they were tears of anger more than sorrow. She knew what the crying girl meant without even hearing the words. The sickness of this world continues to baffle and pain her, but she kept silent letting Guk-Guk finish. It took a little bit longer than before for Guk-Guk to regain her composure this time, but eventually she did.
"Guk-Guk escape one night he drink too much, and Guk-Guk never stop till she got in Samich. Then Ms. Puppet and Wolfy help Guk-Guk."
Sabin wiped her own eyes and kissed the amazing little girl's head.
"You are so tough Guk-Guk. Saba very proud of you, what happened after you got into town?"
Guk-Guk sniffed nuzzling back into Sabin.
"Thank you Saba, Guk-Guk stay in town til Spring then in summer she wander off to look for moonstones to make gift for Ms. Puppet. But Guk-Guk wander too far...bandit men find Guk, but Guk-Guk much fasta den dem. She run upa hill and soon find Papa Bone, he save Guk-Guk."
Sabin's eyes widened a little bit, Y'gol saved the girl? She never would've believed that had she not seen Guk-Guk and hear how she talks about the Ogre.
"How did Papa Bone save you?"
The girl looked at her toy fondly.
"He give great big roar then charge downa hill and killa all but one, but Guk-Guk too scared to watch."
Sabin nodded gently, yes that sounded like Y'gol, well almost like him.
"Why didn't he kill the last one?"
Guk-Guk rolled to her back while still staying close to Sabin.
"He been fightin' them for while. They be robbin all the traders coming to Samich and blamin Papa for it hoping town go killa Papa. But Papa too smart, he make bandit take us to the man's camp then he make Guk-Guk look away as he kill that one too. Then Papa and Guk-Guk sleep in bandit camp then bring wagons to town."
Sabin already knew why Y'gol brought the carts to Sāmhach, but she wanted to hear Guk-Guk's reason.
"Why did you and Papa bring the wagons down? Wouldn't there be lots of food and such for you and Papa?"
Guk-Guk shrugged making her toy dance across Sabin's tummy.
"It was Guk-Guk's birthday and Guk-Guk birthday wished to thank Ms. Puppet and Wolfy for helpin Guk-Guk. Papa wasn't happy, but Guk-Guk talk him into it. That way Guk-Guk hoped Papa would be allowed ina town, but he like his den too much so Guk-Guk move in wit him. And he treat Guk-Guk good." The little girl's tears had dried and talking about her Papa seemed to calm her fears quite a bit, so with all the fear and tears dried up sleep began to retake the child's mind.
The Dark One smiled lovingly and pulled Guk-Guk back into her body and covered them both with the covers just as the girl let out a big yawn and hugged Lil Bone to her chest and squishing him between her body and Sabin. She made herself comfortable sharing the bed with a little girl and her toy and kisses Guk-Guk upon the head one more time.
"Good night Guk-Guk."
The child hmmed softly her eyes already heavy and closed. She kissed Sabin's chest and seemed to settle into sleep. Just as Sabin herself was about to shut her eyes though Guk-Guk asked something that made Sabin blink in shock.
"Guk-Guk love you Mama."
How does one answer that? She did care for the little scamp, but to be called Mama by her especially considering who her Papa was left Sabin's speechless, luckily Guk-Guk was half asleep so she didn't notice the pause and by the time the Elf had an answer Guk was breathing the shallow breaths of sleep. Sabin didn't often let her emotions show or use words like love, but if such a brave and amazing little girl considered her a mother even if it was just a slip of the tongue, the Dark Elf couldn't help but be filled with warm maternal feelings. Her heart glowed and she wished when she did have a child of her own they would be as amazing as this little Goblin half breed laying asleep in her arms.
Leaning down she kissed Guk-Guk's cheek softly and whispered to the little girl.
"Mama loves you too Guk-Guk." She saw the faintest hint of a smile on the girl's face as she blew the candle on the table out hugging the girl close as she drifted into a pleasant sleep with dreams of motherhood dancing across her closed eyes.
"Pss- Yaorlan!", Sabin leaned against the open window, calling out to the wood elf.
She sneaked from her own room window into that of Yaorlan, while making sure Guk-Guk was still tucked in, and fast asleep. There were few hours before sunrise, but she had to do something with the info gotten from the girl.
She tried to wake the elf, but the last however seemed WAY too much into the comfortable bed as he simple moved from one corner to the other, covering himself with the blanket. Sabin chuckled from the cute sight. There was hardly any good night sleep with Denika's leadership, hardly even in the latest months when they were on constant alarm. That explains his lack of motivation to get up from a good night rest.
"Yaorlan", she started to pass her fingers over the blankets, "Get up!".
"Nyum…", he smiled, probably still in a dream, "Five more minutes, please"
"Wish we had that much time… but you need to get up!", she pulled the blanket over him, realizing way too late that he liked to sleep without cloths too.
"Oh c'mon!", she said, looking away, blushing.
He barely got up when he realized the situation.
It was awkward to say the least.
***
"So, darky, what's the big deal?", he said while dressing as she was sitting at the edge of his window, "You know the big deal for which you couldn't possibly wait for morning, or you know- knock and-!"
There was a long silent and even Yaorlan could feel that something was wrong, "What's up?".
Sabin took a deep breath, "Y'gol is not the monster we think he is".
"Yes, you already said that before"
"No, you don't understand. Everything I heard about him proved to be very wrong, he wasn't the one who made the caravans go astray, he actually beat the thieves, he was not the reason for the deaths of the raiders… Do you understand?"
"Wow. It's very hard to swallow"
"I know. I think his promise to me, and Guk-Guk changed him somehow… I need to see him. I need to go to him before we go to battle!"
"I'm coming with you"
"Guk-Guk coming too", said a voice behind them.
Sabin didn't realize the girl was up.
"Not a good idea, kiddo, he may-!"
"Excellent idea", said Sabin.
"Err?", the wood elf asked puzzled.
"She is the only one who knows the way to him, and he may only give us a chance to speak because of her…"
"You put a lot of trust in their bounds don't you?"
"I have to… After everything she's been through, calling a monster father is way hard a task than you think… And those she placed her trust in, proved to be the real monsters instead… I'm going to trust him too… I have to, he probably will be the only side to listen right now".
SikstaSlathalin
12-12-2017, 06:18 PM
With a plan decided upon the trio bundled themselves up as warmly as possible and crept quietly downstairs. Life at an Inn always starts before dawn, and as they reached the bottom of the stairs the smell of freshly made bread and breakfast filled the warm air of the tavern as the gentle glow of the fireplace and the thin fingers of dawn's light giving just enough light to see Hasher hunched over the fire slowly bringing it back to life and Ashley pacing around the tables cleaning and setting them for the early risers to eat at.
Hasher's keen ears perked up at hearing the group come down the steps and growled a greeting to them just as Xandra came out from the kitchen wiping her hands on her cooking apron. She was obviously expecting one of her other guests, not the Elves and little Guk-Guk. She hmmed gently looking down at the girl, she'd heard Guk-Guk's nightmare last night, but before she could get up and see what she could do the girl was already with Sabin. Being a Puppet Mage gives her a little bit of empathy sensing powers and she could tell Sabin would be more helpful for Guk-Guk than she would and it proved right because the little girl while kind of groggy looking seemed happy.
"You should still be asleep young lady." She teased bringing Guk-Guk from fresh milk and toast. The girl gave a big yawn and shook her head. "We goin' to see Papa Bone got no time."
The woman quirked her eyebrow pointing her finger to the stool behind the food.
"You need some breakfast, now sit and eat." With a big yawn Guk-Guk knew that look in Xandra's eyes and knew to not argue with her. So she hopped up onto the stool and began nibbling on the toast.
With a curt nod she looked up at the Elves.
"You two as well. I know Guk-Guk likes toast and milk, but I can make you anything."
Yaorlan shook his head nicely at the offer.
"No we're kinda on a deadline, we'll meet Guk-Guk outside."
The Mage narrowed her eyes and began drumming her fingers on the bar. Some of the Puppet Servers twitched lightly and began staring at the Elves in response to their Mistress's mood. With a sigh the man put his hands up in defeat and sat on the other side of Guk-Guk.
"Just coffee and some bread and cheese please."
"I'll have the same thing please, add some milk to my coffee though".
As they started to eat, Yaorlan sneaked away some bottle with clear looking water within, however Sabin was no fool.
"What do you think you are doing with alcohol so early in the morning?"
"Shush!", Yaorlan hushed her, "You don't want the kid to hear that word at her age"
"I'm sure she already had, you know living in this place..."
"Regardless, I believe it's better to avoid this topic", he said as she started to pour the liquid into small cup and took two straight shots, "I'm drinking water, is all"
"I can't believe you've just consumed Vodka at this hour".
"Lady!", he said while he poured another drink, "We are about to meet someone even the captain had trouble dealing with. If there is anything which is going to keep my mind at east is Vodka".
Sabin shook her head with a grin, "So be it", she drank and eat, but only a mouthful. Yaorlan hardly eaten his food as well, "I just want to be over with this, darky", he said once they both got up.
"I'm thankful you are joining me, it really means a lot"
Yaorlan nodded, "I really hope so as well... I know I said I'll be happy just trying to sway the balance, but failing after reaching so far will kinda suck"
"Let's go!", Sabin said, "We have yet to actually face either of the warring sides"
SikstaSlathalin
12-13-2017, 12:04 AM
While she couldn't stop the adults from barely eating their breakfast she made sure Guk-Guk helped herself to two more bits of toast and another glass of milk before she would let her get up. The girl jumped off the stool and ran back up to her room. Once the trio was done the woman collected the dishes and took them into the kitchen. She was used to people drinking early in the morning and as she heard they were going to see Y'gol, Yaorlan's reasoning made sense. But there was warning she needed to deliver.
"You'd be wise to leave that here Master Elf." She said nodding to the bottle. "As you know Papa Bone has a very keen sense of smell, and he is also very protective of Guk-Guk. And her being in the care of people who smell of alcohol...will not end well. Especially if they have it on them."
The Wood Elf thought about it then nodded sadly and placed the bottle on the bar. Xandra nodded back and took the bottle hiding it. "Don't worry it'll be here if you come back." She smirked lightly nodding towards the door. "Good luck."
The heard Guk-Guk hopping down the steps weighed down by something, as she came into view the Elves saw the little half-breed appear with a large hammer in a sling across her back. Yaorlan's eyes went a little wide as he saw it.
"What in the world is that Guk-Guk?"
The child pulled the hammer out of the sling and gave it a few proud practice swings.
"Dis is Bonk-Bonk! Guk-Guk's big 'ammer for brekin' faces like Papa Bone does!" She made a few tough sounding growls as she fought invisible foes.
Yaorland simply shook his head.
"Alright Guk-Guk if you say so. Ready to go now?"
The little girl nodded and reslung her hammer before racing off for the door using her small fur cape like bird wings trying to take off. The Elves shared a smile and followed the energetic girl out. It was a cool early autumn morning out, the dew was still on the grass and a low fog was rolling down from the mountains around them. It would've been a beautiful morning had they not been about to go see a 9 foot tall incarnation of death itself. None of that bothered the happy little girl as she bounced through the little clouds diving under them then popping up in a different place giggling wildly. Such simple joys are unknown to adults even those who refuse to grow up.
Their bodies cannot twist and bounce the same as a kid's, and people don't stare at and judge a kid for being a kid like this. The freedom of youth is indeed a precious things that is so often wasted, but with a quick whistle Sabin got the girl's attention again.
"Ok Guk-Guk which way do we go?
The girl popped up then pointed out beyond the residents.
"We go that way to Papa Bone. Keep up wit Guk-Guk." Quickening their pace the Elves followed the child through the mostly silent streets of Sāmhach. It was barely dawn so most of the townspeople were still sleeping, but they could see the real beauty and appeal of this mountain hamlet. Only the sounds of wildlife and the wind filling the streets. And it also showed them just how small the town really was, they reached the northern borders in a manner of minutes and it was here Guk-Guk stopped and turned to look seriously at the adults following her.
"Ok listen close to Guk-Guk, only Papa Bone and Guk-Guk know way to Papa's Den and we setta traps alla over mountain. So you step where Guk-Guk step and try nota fall down k?!" She didn't give them time to respond she just darted through the gate expecting them to follow.
They did what she asked, but also studied the land around them as much as the fog would let them. Y'gol had really put great time and energy into picking his den. It was one nearly inaccessible path after another followed by sheer rockfaces. Yao commented a number of times he's not even sure how the girl or the Ogre even got up this far. But Guk-Guk would always just giggle and show off her gymnastic skills each time something seemed impossible to get over.
It was past noon, when they arrived at what Guk-Guk would call her front yard. It was a long rocky slope leading up to another sheer rock face only this one with a massive chunk taken out of the wall as if a landslide many years ago broke the rocks free reveling a platform and a cave. The girl was visibly excited and skip-ran her way up the slope shouting.
"PAPA, GUK-GUK HOME AND SHE BRING FRIENDS!"
Sabin and Yaorlan followed a few weary feet behind the girl as she vanished into the dim light of the cave. So this was it? This where the most feared Ogre in the land made his home and started raising his adopted daughter, no one would believe them if they survived this encounter. As they came closer to the cave they were surprised in how clean and neat the cave looked in the line of fiery braziers that gave the interior an almost cozy appearance. It looked like a suitable home for the wild child that was Guk-Guk, but what lumbered from the darkness at the back of cave still sent shivers down both of the Elves' spines.
Y'gol loomed up from the darkness he wasn't wearing his skull and they could see his grim black face contorted in a kind of annoyed surprise and his four burning red eyes bored into them. His massive hand was atop Guk-Guk's head and it looked able to pop her little head like a grape, but it looked far more protective than threatening and his clawed thumb was stroking the side of the girl's head fondly. Neither Sabin nor Yaorlan had ever recalled seeing someone more happy than Guk-Guk was right now. She bouncing in place as she led her Papa slowly through the cave and towards the entrance.
The beast's cleavers were leaning against the wall and Yao began thinking of how quickly he could grab those and use them against Y'gol should the beast attack them. But as the father and daughter stopped at the door there was instant tension and both warriors saw Y'gol glance at his cleavers. He could reach them and split them down the middle before either Elf could even make steps towards them.
The girl was oblivious to the tension between the three adults, she was just happy to be back with her Papa and have company.
"Saba and Yaory this Papa Bone, Papa Bone this Saba and Yaory!" The three stood staring at each other for a few seconds before Y'gol spoke, his voice still a slow, rough, whisper but none of the menacing tone Sabin heard in the forest was anywhere under his words.
"Hello...Saba...and...Yaory." He looked down at the girl his grim visage breaking into a genuinely loving smile as he moved hand and nudged Guk-Guk back into the cave. "My...cub...how...about...you...go...get...our...gu ests...some...fresh...water...from...the...pond. And...don't...spill...any...please." The girl smiled and bounced away, Y'gol watched her go until she was well out of sight then he moved with fury and speed. Lunging forward he grabbed both Elves by their necks and propelled them back to the edge of the stone platform his heavy gray hands squeezing their necks just enough to stop any fighting, but be unable to fight back. His eyes blazed with rage and his pointy serrated teeth her clenched tightly.
He held his face mere inches away from Sabin and Yaorlan and he spoke in an even quieter and more dangerous voice. "How...dare...you...show...up...at...my...doorstep. ..stinking...of...alcohol...and following...my...cub? Give...me...one...reason...to...not...kill you...both...now." He tightened his grip a little. "You only...have...a...few...seconds... before...she returns...and...I...never...commit...violence in...her...presence...so...you...will...die...befo re...then...if...I...don't...like...the...answer." He stared deeply into both of their eyes, but mostly at Sabin because he could smell Guk-Guk's scent all over the woman.
"Because this will be a mistake!", Sabin said slowly, feeling the air torn away from her as tears gathered in her eyes from being strangled.
The wood elf could barely move, but he used all his powers to try and pry open the fingers of the ogre away from his neck.
The pain was horrible but Sabin pressed on, "I know now... you didn't kill the traders... you were not the reason caravans stopped coming to the village... but you being there was awfully convenient for the elven captain to make her plans... she hadn't forgave you... neither have I... but this is not justice... not when you are not to be blamed... not after everything I heard from Guk-Guk", Sabin started to cough, the light in her eyes going dimmer.
"You know me... I'm quicker... I would not have been open to your attacks unless I wanted to... hear us out!", she cried, "After all you put me through.... after you got me involved... You owe me at least that!!"
SikstaSlathalin
12-13-2017, 01:20 AM
The Ogre growled deeply his grip tightening once again wishing he had just killed them both before this and just tore down the walls of the High Elf's fort and destroy her himself rather than letting Sabin do it. Even though he would be in the right in killing all the Elves because they attacked him first, but Guk-Guk was sick that day and he was just looking for some herbs to help her when the woman and her men attacked him. And while the soldiers would be killed as easy as flies, their leader was a Mage and Mages are more difficult to kill than that.
But he could hear Guk-Guk singing a happy little song while she splashed around in the water at the back and bottom of their Den. He sighed deeply letting the Elves go and walking back to the cave entrance. He was used to being persecuted, and usually the claims were true, but ever since he took Guk-Guk in he has been trying to live as a good example for the girl. Yes, he encouraged her to steal, but it was to teach her the only skill he could possibly teach that could help her when she grew up. He had taught her how to fight, but he didn't want her to live the life of a warrior. Thievery, while still a dangerous profession isn't a guaranteed death, and good Thieves can avoid danger entirely, this was his hope for his little cub. Y'gol knew nothing of smithing or trading and his particular kind of hunting was not meant to turn a profit it's simply meant to feed him.
Dropping into a crouch Y'gol stared at the Elves.
"Speak...then, I...thought...the woman...smelt...familiar...who is...she?" He sniffed the air trying to remember where he knew her from. "What...vengeance...does...she...seek? And...why...have...you...come here?"
Both Sabin and Yaorlan fell on the knees, the pressure still tightly felt around their necks as they tried rub said location and slowly pick themselves up.
Obviously when Sabin noticed the little girl she hit her elbow in the wood elf's ribs, telling him to act normally. She herself smiled as well, or at least tried to, and Y'gol seemed happy from the cover up.
While Guk-Guk was there, Sabin obviously couldn't go into full details so she tried to allude to the subject, "You know... a familiar person... Igin, a high elf", she said slowly.
Truthfully, Sabin herself didn't know when exactly this event happened. If it occurred during the time they tried to capture Y'gol after his escape, or much much much prior to his first being caged... But during his life he did horrible deed which left one high elf woman mentally scarred forever.
Sabin didn't know the little details, but she knew enough. Denika was full of revenge, and to be honest Sabin couldn't have blamed her.
But looking at the young Guk-Guk, Sabin started to feel hints of compassion.
"I'm happy for your change. I do believe in fair chance to mend ways for everyone", she shook her head, "I can't believe I'm saying this. I have so many questions. I know Guk-Guk is amazing, but how she did it? what made her change you?", Sabin smiled. She was also happy to learn Y'gol honored his promise to her as well, "Regardless, the sins of your deeds are crawling at your back and coming for you, and like you told me from the start, innocents are going to get caught in the fire and I cannot abide it and watch from the side".
She clenched her fists, "I don't know how far you will extend your hospitality, but battling them right now will be wrong. Many of them are not at fault, or don't even know this is a personal gain of one woman who lost everything".
Sabin looked ahead, "It is still your fault, you need to take responsibility. You must", she looked at Guk-Guk, "Stay with her, give us time to try and disband the warriors. Once they will hear what truly happened, they will draw back".
"And if they don't", the wood elf spoke for the first time, a terrible sad expression on his face, "I will personally fight against them".
Sabin was amazed from the noble suggestion of the elf. It clearly was not easy for him to say such thing, knowing that most of the warriors at Denika's back and call were probably his best friends. Even if he himself was not part of the their kin, he probably grew to see them as family.
"Don't say anything, darky", he smiled, "It is sad, but mad dogs must be put down", the wood elf looked up at the ogre. How badly he wished the monster was him and not his squad and captain.
SikstaSlathalin
12-14-2017, 01:32 AM
As Sabin said the name Igin, Y'gol's eyes narrowed. That name began bringing a face to his bestial mind as well as many other things. It was many years ago before he got captured and sent to Frostmire prison, he was on the run from the armies who would late capture him. Now he'd had been evading the armies one at a time for a few months now, killing some here and there, but mostly focusing on staying ahead of the stomping soldiers.
But this was the first time he ever had all three armies marching after him. He could fight and kill likely one hundred of them before he fell, but that wasn't an experience he wanted to have at the moment so he was on the run. Ducking through trees and slipping through the shadows and quickly as his large bulk could. Soon he found what looked like an abandoned cabin, it would give him a few minutes of rest and a time to collect his thoughts. So he busted down the door only to find it wasn't as empty as he thought.
He smelt two High Elves, but before he could react a lighting bolt hit him in the chest and he heard a man shout something and saw the glint of a naked steel blade race through his vision. His leather like skin deflected the blade strike and the attacker's surprise allowed Y'gol to respond his cleavers were in their sheaths across his back, but he swung his long clawed hand up and pierced the Elf's chest impaling him on the the sharp nails. The Elf died instantly and just as the Ogre was about to remove the body a series of searing fireballs threw him into the wall of the cabin making the entire building shudders.
It was then he saw the Elf woman from the forest, she was half-dressed and furious looking. But at the time Y'gol didn't care, he simply wanted to get out. So he charged for the backdoor, but the woman hurled more fireballs at him and blocked his path. She was screeching with sorrow and simply wanted to see the Ogre dead even it killed her with him. Y'gol even against magic is not an easy creature to kill. He quickly threw the table at the woman then heft the body of her love and threw him through the backdoor before following the projectile out and vanishing into the woods.
That was the last time he thought about the woman or her lover, until she showed up in his hunting grounds and began taking food out his and his cub's mouth. Now it seems she wishes to finish what she couldn't even begin all those years ago.
As the woman rambled on Y'gol began to growl softly in annoyance. Guk-Guk simply looked on in confusion at the long silence her hands holding up a battered wooden tray with two ceramic cups of water.
"What Saba talkin' about Papa?" Y'gol visibly softened at Guk-Guk's words and took the cups handing them to the Elves before crouching down and lifting his cub into his arms hugging her softly.
"Papa...did...bad...things...when...he...was young. But...he...is...better...now." He kissed the child's head and she simply nodded softly and leaned into him still confused, but comforted by him. He held her for a few more seconds thinking on his next words before he put her down and nodded to the back of the cave.
"Guk-Guk...can...you...please...go clean...up...your...room? Papa...needs...to...have...a...grown-up...talk...with...your...friends." The girl frowned and looked to make a protest, but a soft pat on her behind made her jump a little and skulk back into the cave.
Once she was gone the Ogre turned back to Sabin and Yaorland growling a little louder.
"I...am...not...fully...at...fault. I...was...simply...looking...for...a...place...to hide...from...my former...employers." He glared directly at Yao tapping the two Elf fingers on his necklace. "The...High...Elves...attacked...me...first...and.. .I...reacted...same...as...in...the...forest." He looked back at Sabin. "Do...not...force...your...ideas...of...sin...on... me...Ms.Togar. I...am..wild...born...and...wild...raised." He pointed a long arm to the forests below them. "If...you...attack...something...more...powerful... than yourself...you...pay with...your life. That...is...all...this...matter...is." Dropping his hand he glanced back at the cave lifting his nose to smell if Guk-Guk was eavesdropping she was not.
"As...for...my...past, I...have...put...it...behind...me...for...Guk-Guk." He voice changed from a menacing growl to almost a sad whimper his eyes dropping to his gray gnarled hands. "She...is very...much...like...me. Life...has...been...cruel to...us...both. But...my...sins...are...no...longer...my concern...only...her...well-being...is. I...will...not...make...amends...for...what...mean s...nothing." He looked up from his hands again, but his voice still sounded sad. "She..changed...me...by...sticking...with...me...af ter...I...stopped...being...useful...to...her. When...I...had... killed...the...bandits...and...saved...her...she.. .did...not...wish...to...leave...my...side." His voice grew a little joyful as he continued to speak. "She...wanted...to...help...me...like...the...way.. .I...helped...her. By...getting...the...town...to not...hate...me. We...brought...the...carts...down...and...made...a mends, but...even...after...the Innkeepers...embraced...and...wanted...to...take.. .her...in...she...refused." The beast sighed almost wistfully. "She...chose...me...as...her...Papa. I...have...been...only...a...monster...now...I...w as...a...father." He ended his words with a single sad growl.
Sabin opened her mouth few times but no voice escaped her lips. The sight of Y'gol soften appearance just stole the words out of her mouth.
She turned to look at Yaorlan, hoping he might have anything clever to say but he appeared to be lost as her, although his expression was unreadable. He took the cup and set done, drinking, and having his gaze fixed at the bottom of glass.
Sabin did the same, but did not drink the water. She was just too shocked to do so, "I'm happy for you, Y'gol", she said at least, "And I'm happy Guk-Guk has such a good father to keep her safe...", Sabin sighed.
"Like I said before darky, would have been much more simple if everything was black and white"
There wasn't anything else to be done now it seems. Sabin got up and looked at the huge ogre, "Y'gol… please… give me the time I need, I'll get Denika off your back… in return… don't hurt the village".
She walked out of the cave slowly, "Guk-Guk!", she called to the girl, "Listen hon. Myself and Yaorlan are heading to discuss some very important talk with a very powerful woman. I don't want you, or Y'gol to be hurt, so you must stay here and protect Y'gol", she winked at her, "Only you are capable to do it. So you will need to stay here, okay?"
Sabin bent down and hugged her, "Please, I beg of you, stay here with Y'gol. We are going to rescue few people whose mind being stolen by the thought of revenge...", Sabin leaned in to whisper, "And also the prince", she tried to fake a smile, "Can I trust you with protecting Y'gol?", she said.
SikstaSlathalin
12-16-2017, 01:10 AM
The little girl puffed out her small chest nodding. "Guk-Guk, watch Papa's back!" She hugged Sabin back firmly. "Guk-Guk hope Saba and Yaory come back and see Guk-Guk and Papa soon." She broke from Sabin's hug then quickly ran up and hugged the Wood Elf too before vanishin back into the cave, she still had to clean her room.
The Elves began to leave but a pair of heavy claws landed on their shoulders, Y'gol wasn't done yet. Leaning in between them he growled low in both their ears.
"I...thank...you...for...making...my...cub... happy, I...will...give...you...another...day...Sabin. Some...game...have...returned... but...I...will...exhaust...their...herd...soon. Follow...the...trees...marked...with...a...Y...and ...you'll...reach...the... town...safely." His growl became darker and more quiet. "Find...the...peaceful...route...soon, because...this...High..Elf...threatens...my..cub. And...should...harm...befall...her." He squezzed their shoulders allowing his claws to dig into their clothes. "No...force...in...this...world...or...the...next.. .will...save...the...woman...or...you...two...from ...my...wrath. I...may...be...changed...but...not...that...much." With his ultimatum given he released Sabin and Yaorlan then turned and moved slowly back to his den.
Yaorlan began walking quickly down the hill rubbing his shoulder checking for blood.
"I should've stayed Avelar." He sighed deeply his spine shivering at the idea of what the Ogre would do to them should they fail in convincing Denika and his men to give up this fool's errend of revenge.
Sabin tried her best not to smile, but failed. She was happy, happy with this small recognition of the beast at all their efforts.
And at the fact that for the first time he addressed her as "Sabin".
***
They head back to Denika's camp as quickly as they could. Yaorlan ran as much as his lungs allowed him, but he could tell that the dark elf was slowing down because of him. He admired the fact she did so with grace, not barking at him to speed up- but at the same time he did wonder how much distance she would have covered without him on her tail. So far from the little he learned the dark elves turned out to be remarkable race; they were not the grim creatures he imagined them to be- perhaps not the most virtuous, but definitely nobles at the core.
"We still… need to go… over this", Yaorlan said to her, trying to speak while gasping for air.
Sabin, as if realizing for the first time that he was not as agile as her, stopped, "Let us take a rest", she said, pulling out a small can of water and handing it to the wood elf. The elf collapsed at the ground and was grateful to drink and bath his face with the cold water.
Sabin sat down gracefully not far from him, waiting for him to pass the can so that she could drink as well, "We are not far", she looked at the tip of the fortress that was already visible at the distance.
"Exactly, which is why I believe we need to plan this carefully"
Sabin's expression remained fixed.
"Darky, I didn't want to bring this up yet, but right now it may be crucial. What are your feelings regarding Gelmied?"
"What? Why?", Sabin looked confused.
Yaorlan bit his lower lips as he tried to gently speak up his mind. Each and every time he was surprised at how naively the woman had thought of the world. She was deadly and wise, but a lot of things like politics and trickery fooled her easily. It was cute, in a sense, she was one of those rare souls he usually only read about in books, as it was hard to find such people in this harsh world, unless they were children, like Guk-Guk. But at the same time he knew she must harden her heart, otherwise she would be hurt and most likely lose her life in the process.
"Don't forget that Gelmied is her most prized possession. She will not hand him away so easily…"
"What are you trying to say?"
"Darky… Supposed Denika somehow agrees to simply back off and leaves but will not agree to free Gelmied-!"
"I will not agree to it!", Sabin said almost immediately, watching the surprised expression of the wood elf. She soon realized what the words she shouted meant, "Not… that… I…", she swallowed, as she felt her body growing hot, while her cheeks burning red, "I will not allow slavery", she said bowing her head as she tried to calm down again.
Yaorlan grinned. The dark elf tried so hard to remain emotionless- Probably something which was expected from all of them, but seeing her break character and show her true nature, which was a very curious lass, was endearing. Upon her silk like dark skin, her cheeks radiated in a very weird crimson- dark, but still awfully visible, almost like make up.
"Of course", the wood elf said, "I only asked to know where we stand with this. Obviously I will not allow her to back away with my men as well", he said, trying to make Sabin feel better.
"I've been thinking about trying to talk to her… Simple as that-", Sabin looked at Yaorlan, "If you have other ideas, I'd love to hear them too".
SikstaSlathalin
12-20-2017, 10:18 PM
Yaorlan sighed punching the bridge of his nose.
"You are so naive sometimes it astounds me. You want to walk up to a deranged High Elf Mage, and try to talk her off the revenge she's been thirsting after for years. All the while not slipping up and getting yourself killed, and while trying to not let her know you know her true intentions." The Elf leaned against a tree staring at the tall wooden walls and the single guard patrolling the ramparts looking just was worn out and ragged as he did when he left.
"We may be able to get my men to leave the fort while you talk with the Captain, but they'll never mutiny. She's bedded all of them at least once and that tied into her actual magic has them well under her spell...pun not intended." Pushing off the tree he adjusted his clothing and equipment then motioned for Sabin to follow him. "I can get us into the fort easily enough, after that though it's on you."
They walked casually up to the front gate and Yaorlan shouted up at the guard.
"Oi, Alaser open the gates! Sabin and I are back from Orc hunting."
Peeking over the edge Alaser was a young man, peach-fuzz growing on his face, and his platinum blonde hair was kept short cropped to his head.
"Hey Sergeant, we wondered where you went. The Captain was pissed, she's not gonna be happy."
Yao nodded up.
"Yeah, I figured, but the Orcs are trickier than we thought and I had to save Sabin's life once already. So open up."
The young Elf nodded and hopped down from the threshold and pulled open the door just enough for Yao and Sabin to enter before he quickly shut the door behind them. The two Elves entered and they saw the men preparing for a battle of some kind. Weapons were being sharpened and armor was being repaired. They saw Gelmied working diligently on putting armor on the Harts and attaching small blades to their antlers. He glanced over and a small smile crossed his face at the sight of Sabin, but he did not move to greet them or send a hail their way. He was on thin ice as it is, so he turned back and continued to armor up their mounts.
The Captain was in another part of the yard. She was dressed in a short battle skirt that only went down to about the top of her thighs and she was wearing a white cloth bra. He feet were bare and her hair done back in a professional looking ponytail. She was training with some of the magic dummies she summoned. The Captain wasn't the best fighter on her own, she let magic do most of the work for her, but today she was wielding a slender long sword and going through the basics of sword combat. She had just completed a side-spin dodge and plunged her blade into the dummies side when she saw Sabin and Yao begin walking towards her. She let out a cat-like smile and a light chuckle. Yanking the sword from the dummy she threw it into the ground and crossed her arms under her bust popping her boobs up watching them.
"Well, well, well, Sergeant, good to see you back. I take it you had fun gallivanting with Ms. Togar, hope you two used protection."
Yaorlan gave a forced smile at Denika's words and bowed lightly.
"Sadly that wasn't why I followed her Captain. I figured even a Dark Elf like her could use help hunting down and fighting Orcs. So I joined her and it is a good thing I did, we got ambushed in the mountains. The Orc cell jumped Sabin and were about to do away with her, but then I ran from the path and slew the first couple myself. Then Ms. Togar and I cleaned up the rest of them, but we couldn't find their headquarters."
Denika's smile didn't change as she listened to Yaolan's words. He was lying to her, but she would deal with him later. She glanced at Sabin looking the Dark Elf up and down lustfully, training always gets her blood going, and with Gelmied only thinking about Sabin now the High Elf was more eager than ever to win the woman to her bed.
"Give me a full brief in two hours Sergeant. You are dismissed." Yao gave Denika a quick salute and glanced apologetically at Sabin before vanishing into the yard. Once the man was gone Denika sauntered up to Sabin her lusty smile never faltering each step making her impressive body bounce.
She walked up and wrapped her arms around her shoulders. Because of Denika's height advantage she hugged Sabin to her breasts resting her chin on top of the Dark One's head. With a sly smile she spoke to Sabin.
"So you liked my Snow Elf the night before last huh?"
Sabin swallowed, hoping her expression won't give her away. As she began to feel her cheeks burning she made her way for the captain's cabin and took out a bottle of wine, pouring two cups, hiding the fact the questions was a direct hit at her weakness.
"He was warm and the night was cold", sabin said slowly as she poured.
Sabin also recalled the words of Denika as she teased the wood elf- "protection"- It didn't occur to her until now, but she may have forgotten to drink any needed potion to prevent her from conceiving when she slept with Galmied. It bothered her, but it was the least of her worries right now. She had to find a way to understand the spell casted on the snow elf before she could form her plan on how to try and take down Denika without harming her in the process, "Here", she said, giving her a cup of wine as well, "I didn't know you grow found of slaves Denika. Looking at how beautiful you are, aren't you simply kicking them away with a stick?", she drank carefully, looking at the captain as she drank as well.
SikstaSlathalin
12-24-2017, 12:48 AM
Denika took the offered drink smiling mischievously as she draped a towel about her sweaty shoulders. She undid and dropped her battle skirt, but was content to simply parade around her quarters in just her bra and panties. She rubbed the towel about her supple body making sure to sway her hips and show off her curves to the woman.
Leaving the towel across her shoulders she sipped the wine shrugging at Sabins question.
Hmm the pickings are very slim out here dear Sabi, and as you know Gelmied is a rare gem among men. Slave or no. She chuckled moving to her bed and sitting lightly down upon it letting her breasts bounce with the motion.
Sabin was pleased of the fact that the woman was so much more interested in flirting than noticing that she had slipped something into the wine. Sabin herself leaned against the cabin and drank while narrowing her eyes and leaning her free hand on her hip, Dear friend
You dont need slaves
They will follow for sure
, she said carefully, We both know that you are in truth, the rarest gem of them all
Denika let out a rich laugh, she knew of the Dark Elves disdain for slavery. But it was a key industry for many Elves which in this case included the Snow Elves. The laugh was followed by a soft hmm as Sabin complimented her. Maybe the Dark One was finally being open with herself, immortals like them shouldnt be limited to only one side of the fence when seeking pleasure.
I may not need slaves friend, but doesnt mean they arent useful to an ambitious woman like me. Besides hes a bad boy among Snow Elves, Ive been saving him from those would come looking to claim his wonderfully handsome head. She took another sip of her wine, feeling the tiring exercises from the yard weighing on her.
You seem
tired?, Sabin drank some more, Come lets settle in and well talk as friends. Sabin moved through the Captains room and locked both door and the window, putting a convincingly sly smile. We dont want to be interrupted Im sure. She then moved and sat gently down upon Denikas bed brushing against the woman a little.
Denika smiled warmly then nodded rubbing her arm and shoulder gently.
Hmm yes indeed Sabi, so considerate you are. She took another sip of her wine draining the glass before placing it on her nightstand rubbing her beautiful body down slowly feeling way more sore and tense muscles then shed ever remembered having before. Guess, Ive been working harder than I thought. She crossed her arms over her chest and began rubbing both of her shoulders.
Sabin moved behind the High Elf kneeling on the bed rubbing her hands over her shoulders, carefully petting the delicate skin of Denika. Even if she didnt swing to her side, it was hard not to find the woman desirable, and in the state she was now, so hurt and wounded, it was hard not to think of the snow elf. Without even knowing why her hands reached over Denikas arms and began to knead them like bread. She soon realized who she was massaging, but she decided to continue and play along, There, she said softly, Let me ease you a little, Sabin was a professional with the art of touching. It did help that her female mentors have taught her long and hard how to please others, if such activities were needed as part of a mission. Working on Denikas body, it helps to envision that it was Galmieds body instead, Now
How about you stop saving others and focus on yourself
, Sabin was curious, and the wine was about to take its effect soon. So she started with the questions, How did you save the snow elf?
Denika let out a deeply pleased moan sitting back against Sabins body.
Hmm you have such wonderful hands Sabi, but I do hope you arent tracking mud and dirt onto my bed with your shoes and clothes. She giggled gently rolling her narrow shoulders slowly. As for saving him, he doesnt talk about it much. But he killed an Elder within his tribe long before I got him, he wouldve been put to death had his Clan not needed the money such a beautiful man would fetch. But not everyone liked that arrangement, so as he was shuffled from owner to owner Bounty Hunters and Assassins were constantly on his trail. They almost succeeded a few times, but ever since hes gotten my brand they know who they would anger if they harmed him so they all but fled away into the shadows, I think his sister was one of them.
Sabin gasped. This was a bit too much to handle. He never told her this much, or how much the woman was critical to his survival. Is that why he was so hopeless and accepting? Will she be able to protect him if he was free?
Sabin move to stand before Denika. Hmm I would never dream of it Denika. She started to erotically move her hands over her body, letting her take good glance at each and every part she touched. Then, without changing her expression, she raised one leg each time, removing her boots, making sure the high elf was still looking. Then she unbuckled her belt, letting her weapons drop to the sides, while she withdraw her breast armor and her leg guards. She stood then removed her light gown and stood before Denika in just her gown.
Like a cat, she quickly climbed on the bed, kneeling on her legs as she crouched behind the high elf, and started to rub her shoulders and back firmly, No mud, dear friend, she smiled, carefully rubbing a particular part on Denikas back, she leaned in pressing her breasts against the other womans back and whispered into her ear, This area right here. It hurt him. Was so hard to get into the mood
was it your idea?, Sabin faked a smile, Clever
but we both know that if he is so grateful he wont try to run away
why do that?
Denika sighed happily before she leaned forward and undid her clothe bra letting her breasts hang freely and removing the obstruction of the bra straps from the Dark Elfs hands.
Hmm I am sorry for that, thought you might be like me and enjoy a little rougher of a sexual encounter. And teasing that always fires him up...in such...a wonderful way. But you are doing a wonderful job of firing me up just like
.this
.Sabi.
Still leaning beside her, Sabin leaned into her neck, carefully slurping around her nape, and reaching her hands over her breasts, gently touching them, You dont need this, Denika
My friend, she started to lick her nape gently, You are better than that
You should go about without it
The sex will be better
trust me
Denika moans softly the unexpectedness of Sabins hand throwing her off guard, but she wasnt going to complain. Hmm sometimes...yes...but so is forcing that extra....bit...out of...unwilling partners. The woman regained some control and turned to face Sabin grabbing her chest now and kneeling in front of her kissing the womans lips deeply. Besides...it is such...a chore...removing...the marks.
Is it?, Sabin said, slowly removing her gown and remaining there, in her underpants, Seemed rather easy to me
You should try it
Denika licked her lips and removed Sabins bra for her before she pulled the other woman onto the bed with her. Hmm easier said than done. She ran her hand along Sabins taut stomach demonstrating her words. It is similar to how you put the brand on. Only instead of coating the skin with the blood of a slave you must use the blood of someone like me. An Elf of strong Royal Lineage, my sister is the current Queen and I am the illegitimate daughter of her father and the former Chief Magical Advisor of the Avelar Royal Court. She then trickled her fingers along Sabins side and rump. Then you must find a spring of pure water at the base of a mountain instead of the top and bathe each other in it rather than only the mage pouring water over the spot. Her hand then moves to Sabins lips. Then together you must have consensual sex rather than one side violating the other. Also magic must be coursing to the brand. At climax the magical properties of the brand would be removed though the brand itself would not.
You worked so hard for only one man?, Sabin said as she pushed Denika on her back, and pulled her hands over her head, Im impressed. Why so much trouble for one guy?, she nuzzled her neck and began to nibble on her neck.
Denika moaned again her hands coming around to grip Sabins rump firmly encouraging her to continue. Hmm a mage
.can...only brand...one like that at a time. And he was just so delicious I didnt want to lose him. She slipped her hands down the back of Sabins panties squeezing her cheeks.
Sabin pulled her hands back up, kissing her forcefully, while pushing her knees in between Denikas legs, Really now? But why? He seems so without a life to him
Why him Denika? You could have gotten any other snow elf no?, she pushed her legs fully, while kissing her more.
Denika returned the passion of the kiss wrapping her legs around Sabins supple hips.
I always do research on those under my command, and through my studies I found out Gelmieds clan the Ice-Sworn are the last of an ancient bloodline that connects them to the first King of the Snow Elves before the High Elves took over Avelar. I just had to have such a pedigree under my command so we could conceive a child with strong enough blood to overthrow my hussy of a sister She broke her hands free of Sabin and put them firmly atop the Dark Elfs breasts massaging them, her face was red with passion, but her eyes were blurry from the effects of the serum Sabin put into the wine.
Sabin faked her pleasure, her hands slowly thrown to the back of her panties, reaching for a small pocket that was sewn within it, with a very strong powder, she dipped her fingers in them, and carefully tossed the item around, while bringing her fingers to her lips, dipping them with the substance in a passionate way. This was a very strong drug. One that Sabin had the pleasure to have a high tolerance to, but not enough to be resisted. She will need to act fast. This new information was something had not expected. Not once had she thought of Denika wanting to have children.. Or to have the throne for that matter
This was too much
but there was hardly any time left
She continued to kiss Denika passionately, forcing Denika to ingest the powder, forcing her hands over her hips and breasts. The drug should work soon, she hoped, all the while enjoying the moaning of the woman. Even if she did not find the same sex to be as alluring, causing pleasure to another was very exciting regardless, and she had tried to make it at least a little more believable. If all that Denika said was true, preventing her revenge was the least of the things she was about to do if she was going to free the Snow Elf
She was actually stealing her man in a sense. She didnt stop, but at the same time she knew what she had to do next, which was to bring the snow elf into this, and let him choose. It was the right thing to do. Even if he was not going to part from Denika, she was still going to at least keep her away from the village.
Denika was lost in the throes of passion her dream of finally bedding Sabin has come true and she wasnt going to waste it. She worked their panties down and began rubbing their hips together while holding the kiss. The pleasure was intense, but soon the serum and the powder took effect and the High Elf was fighting the sleep inducing effects as best as she could.
But it was too no avail before she could reach a pleasurable end with Sabin she was fast asleep her body quaking with pent up pleasure.
Im sorry Denika
I hope you will still think of me as friend, Sabin kissed her softly and then turned to dress up, closing the room behind her.
Sabin carefully looked around as she was outside the yard again.
“Darky!”, said Yaorlan as he noticed her, “Great, I’ve gathered everyone. They are at least willing to listen, so you better give a big speech and-!”
Sabin was panting and blushing, but her face were (and considering her skin tone) somewhat pale. She looked extremely worried.
“What’s up?”, the wood elf asked.
Sabin covered her mouth and looked at Yaorlan with a pained expression, “I think I did a horrible thing…”.
He could tell she was holding herself from crying. This dark elf, the example of a perfect assassin, have managed to surprise him once again. How fragile she was, how different and naiive--- seeing her like that, so hurt like a small dove… he wanted to embrace her so badly.
“I need to speak to Galmied”, Sabin said and Yaorlan’s hands fell beside his body. He swallowed as he pointed at the direction of the “stables”, hiding his pained expression, which she, in her rush didn’t notice. It was for the best, maybe. She made up her mind and was fixed on that snow elf, it was better not growing attached… but damn it if he didn’t just want to hold her all for himself, “Make it quick Darky… They are waiting, and as much as they are willing to hear you out, they may not listen…”
***
Sabin found the snow elf not far from the hoards of the harts, still grooming them and wearing them into the armors. He seemed to noticed her but dared not to talk to her.
“It’s okay… she is knocked out so we can speak a little”, she picked up his hands within her, “I did a horrible thing…”, she said, “I can give all the excuses in the world, but it will probably not justify the deed. I bedded her… well… kinda… sorta… oh how horrible of me… I used her feelings for my gains… how does it make me any different than what she did?….”, Sabin panted as she tried to calm herself up, “Listen… She… she has plans for you… tools or not she sees you as a father for her children and more plans… but it’s not my place to judge… so just hear me out”, Sabin was so stressed, she could have hardly hold herself from screaming, “She sees a future where you rule with her, I think… And I also found a way to remove the brand. I think I am capable of doing it, but that will forever make you her enemy… I also heard that she was in truth, your guardian. I am not sure if I’m capable to guard you like she did. I am not as powerful as her… maybe deadly and tricker… but with direct combat she has the skills and she can protect you… I didn’t know that your past was so grim”, she took a deep breath, “Regardless, I am not bothered… I… I want you to come with me… but the price for what I’m asking is too terrible. We will probably be always hunted… on the run… her enemies… you know what it means… I may not be suitable…But I want you to and….”, Sabin stopped herself ,”I will understand if you choose not to come with me…”, Sabin took another long breath, “I will make my speech, giving them a chance to head back… if they choose to fight, their blood is theirs… but they deserve to know….”, Sabin nodded, “When this is over, I will wait a little for your answer. I will accept all your choices, and if you choose not to meet me I will accept it as well”.
Sabin let go of his hands, and headed to the main entrance.
***
“Friends”, Sabin said after she stood on a high platform, wearing her armor and her hood over her to give her a more enigmatic look. She heard it always gave a good impression, “I am turning to you as an outsider. I’m sure the general, Denika’s second in command has already informed you of everything that took place until now. This whole mission is a personal plot of gain. There are no orcs activities… but only one particular individual with whom your captain has a deep and gross grudge. In fact, your queen has called you back at least two months ago… wouldn’t you consider it a mutiny? I know you all have deep connaction to Denika. I care about her a lot myself… but will this prevent me from choosing the right action? No! the answer is clear here, and I will be waiting on the other side of the fence with a lot of strong warriors.
“That is why I implore you. Do what is right. It’s not just your loyalty to the captain that is at stake here. Continue to do as you are told, and you risk being a traitor to your homeland… or worse… losing your life in a needless battle.
“But…”
Sabin stopped to speak, noticing that a familiar face has joined the crowd. Galmied stood in the far corner, listening with great attention. Sabin nodded and continued, “But like I said before to someone… the choice is always yours…”, she smiled and turned to look at all the men in the crowd, “So make the most of it… You have been warned”.
She then stepped down, allowing Yaorlan to take it from there.
As she made her way for the snow elf her steps were becoming softer… as if prolonging the meeting… On one hand she was curious about his answer, but on the other hand she was afraid, “Hey”, she said slowly, “You being here… does it mean you have made up your mind?”
SikstaSlathalin
12-24-2017, 04:44 AM
Galmied was lost in the torrent of information Sabin had just dumped on him. His vision came back in full and it made him wince softly in pain. No Denika couldn't have been the woman in his dream, she just couldn't the Sky Father wouldn't be so cruel even to someone who killed an Elder. And why would she want him to father an heir? Let alone rule besides her? Rule what? He found himself asking over and over, he was a commoner from a line of commoners and as powerful as the Captain is she doesn't any claim to a throne as far as the Snow Elf knew. Or did she? And if that was her ambition all along why did she use the brand to make him impotent every time they coupled before last night?
Denika has never wanted Galmied's company for his conversation and he never wished to ask about her past. She said a few things about it, but that was it. He couldn't believe it and part of him wanted to say he wouldn't, but such secrecy and deception fits everything he knows about Denika's personality and ambition perfectly. His mind was in turmoil, but his heart was not. He would gladly choose life with Sabin as a refugee over being a King with Denika.
He joined his comrades and listened to Sabin's speech in troubled silence. So many questions crashed about his brain some he hoped he would get answers for soon. As the woman joined him at the back of the group he wrapped one large arm about her waist and pulled her in close kissing the Dark Elf deeply. He held it for a full minute before he broke it with a smile. "I choose to live as a refugee with my Valkyrie of the Night."
Yaorlan watched Sabin's speech and the following interaction with Galmied with a pained heart. He wasn't even sure if these feeling were love or just lust from last night after they both discovered the other prefers to sleep in the nude. But whatever the cause he knew this pain and knew the best way to overcome it is to get far away from it. Like back in Avelar. He let the lovebirds have their moment and took up Sabin's spot before the men who watched with him anger and confusion. Rousing speeches weren't his forte, pep talks before battle sure, but convincing his men to desert their commanding officer and the women they all love and hate in equal parts was going to be a new one on him.
Taking a deep breath he began.
"Well there you have it men. The suspicion we've all been having the past month are true. And before anyone starts up with the whole "how can we trust a Dark Elf who is also friends with the Captain" bullshit. I heard the truth myself, right from the mouth of the...creature she is after" He nodded after the shocked looks that swept across the faves of his comrades. " Yes, she is after the Ogre that attacked us and killed both Dasieier and Visger...Y'gol Skullborne."
From an older Elf named Lemolg came a loud protest.
"How the hell did her it from the Grisly Beast without being his lunch?"
Yao wasn't sure how to answer that without showing all his cards. He decided to only show some of them.
" He has changed from the horror stories we've all heard. He just wanted to be left alone and the Captain's vendetta all along with our sudden ambush startled him."
This time a sturdy archer with dark blue tattoos named Catil spoke up.
"That monster killed our brothers innarms. Are we just supposed to let their deaths go unavenged?" His words started up some mumbles among the men.
Yaorlan sighed shaking his head.
"It would only result in all our own deaths and you know it. Besides what good has vengeance done any of us. It is vengeance that has dragged far from our homes and families. The vengeance of a madwoman I might add." As the words "madwoman" left his lips a sudden exit strategy broke into the confines of his mind. A by-law you learned in training but never thought you would ever use. "Yes a madwoman, and in accordance to the Laws of the Queen I Sergeant Yaorlan Swftshot relief Captain Denika Lestaff of command on the grounds of mental incompetence and assume her responsibilities of leadership. Pack the Harts and pack all but a week's worth of supplies for Denika to live off of. We're going home and reporting directly to Lady General Missela Blessedshot in Avelar." With this they could leave without fear of repercussion from Denika. At least directly, the danger of death in a darkened by a less naive Dark Elf than Sabin would forever be there, but he could live with that.
As the men began moving quickly to get ready the Wood Elf walked up and nodded to Sabin and Galmied.
"I also discharge you from military service in Queen Brightcloth's Army Galmied. It is the best I can do to free you big guy. The rest is up to you pair, my men and I will need to be well gone before Denika awakens. So any fight left in her will be the problem of Samach. Good luck Darky." He smiled giving the Dark Elf a firm hug then clapped Galmied firmly on the shoulder and shook his hand before turning from them hiding a tear in his eye and going to help his men pack up camp.
Once they were finally left by themselves, Sabin pulled Galmied to the far corner of the, now deserted fortress- to the same place they both have joined together on her first night there, and right on the floor, covering by the same blanket he gave her, she opened her heart and told him everything that happened to her ever since she left to the surface: About the death of her mother, the events in the near town, about Guk-Guk and Yaorlan hidden caring and gentle side.
In truth, the snow elf was extremely pleased to learn that nothing of the sort of what they did happened between the wood and dark elves (not that he would have fault her if something did happen), and he didn't know what to think of her calling him a prince in a little girl bed time story (even if it may be true in some way or another).
He also was extremely surprised to learn of Denika's royal blood and the idea of her seizing the throne from her sister- and this information was too curious per so to just come about, and so he asked about it. Sabin replied as followed:
"I had to use a truth drug on her to learn how to remove the brand. From what I understood, the brand itself will not go away, but at least the magical hold will fade forever. And since it was casted by a strong mage of Royal blood, to remove it, the partner must be of royal blood as well- If being a child of Matron is considered royalty that is… I'll trust the lineage of my eyes- the sisters in my Alienage always told me the silver eyes were mark of magic and nobility. I am going to trust their words on that regard... Denika mentioned that both parties must bath at a pure spring at the foot of a mountain… and must… mate in the process as the ritual takes its effect…"
Sabin considered those words carefully. She wondered if the process of placing the brand was more or less the same…
"Both parties must be willing to go through it too…", she added, "We need to get ready for war, truly it may not be the time to do such thing, but I believe that getting rid of the brand effect must be our top priority, for Denika will use all her cards, for she surely will wake extremely angry".
SikstaSlathalin
12-30-2017, 01:40 AM
It was all so much to take in. Denika was a Princess, he was a Prince, Sabin was a kind of Princess, and Denika was using him to further her own ambitions only this time it would’ve been something neither of them could go back on. But one question still burned in his mind, if she wanted a child by him why would she use the brand to sterilize him? Maybe she wasn’t ready to take on the Queen’s claim even with a child with strong claims of its own.
The Snow Elf would likely never know, he just hoped they hadn’t conceived in the one unprotected coupling. As he listened to Sabin explain how to break the brands power he found his cheek flushing a little. He remembered the night Denika put the brand on him, it was his first night under her ownership and it was a night he constantly wished to forget. The pain, the massive amount of shame, and the death of the last ember of hope that had been glowing weakly in his heart all his years as a slave.
As she asked if he wanted the brand gone now the big man nodded.
“More than anything.” He took Sabin’s hand and grabbed up the blanket from the gate house leading the woman to the forest. “I know of such a spring, Denika had gather ingredients for potent poisons there a couple of times.” He pulled Sabin in close to him holding his arm fondly around her waist.
Sabin enjoyed the gesture and kissed his free hand softly, “Okay then”, she nodded, “As long as you know what it entails. Once it is removed you are still free to choose your path, so know that you are forced into no obligation. I just want to make sure you do so as a free man. Please lead us to the place, we don’t have much time”
The big man nodded.
“I said I choose you my Valkyrie. Brand or no. Come quickly.” He picked up his pace leading Sabin deeper into the forest towards ancient oaks.
Sabin was happy to hear those words. She wanted to believe in him so much, but still wanted to make sure his decision was his, without any magical intervention. She was a firm believer of fate, knowing often that you can find a bound to people or locations, and feel unexplained connection to them- which constantly urges you to find them or go back to them if you are not with them. She knew she felt a hint of it coming from Galmied, as if knowing the man would play an important role in her life. But even so, she was a reasonable woman. She knew random encounters mostly happen for lust, and she wondered if her feelings were honest, or just fleeting feeling. Same for the snow elf. What if his words were forced on him, or his vision was clouded by the brand? Will he still be with her as a free man? Will he not wish to explore other options? Choosing someone as potential mate after only such chance encounter just seemed so unlikely to her.
And yet, here she was, holding his hands as they were led deeper into the forest, believing like a little girl, that such meeting, as fictional as it seems, was meaningful, with a promise of a shared future for the both of them.
It looked like only time will tell and hoped he didn’t notice how happy she was, or how red her cheeks turned to be.
***
Soon the sound of rushing waters reached their ears and the surrounding rocky area was covering their trail. The spring was isolated, and seemed deserted from mortal interference, which made trees, ground and vegetables to grow wild.
Little creatures swam in the lake, and the water were very clear and sweet. The sun kissed the edges of the grass, and the silent of the area was enchanting. Above their head stretched a range of mountains, which seemed to be fading in the horizon and birds and bees flew around, “This area is fantastic”, Sabin said, dipping her hands in the water, enjoying the fact they were warm, “How did you learn of this location?”, she asked.
As they walked along the forest a strange sense of peace and serenity had filled Galmied’s mind as he held the hand of the woman who saved him once and seems eager to do it again. It wasn’t a familiar feeling at least after so many years only feeling hopelessness. He wondered if it would last, his experience with women is fairly one sided. And despite how much proof and love he sees in Sabin’s face and eye that nagging little part of his brain that makes him doubt everything never goes quiet.
Maybe if his vision proves true and Sabin is the mother of his child it will finally be quiet. He could not know and by rights he shouldn’t worry about it. Even if it was all a lie he would at least be done with this brand...hopefully. His mind was called back from it’s wonderings when he heard Sabin speak besides him. Looking down at her he smiled.
“When the Captain first brought us here, I was part o’ the Scouting party she sent out tae recon the area. There was only three of us sent out so we each picked a direction and started walking, mine brought me here. Growing up in around the Glacial Sea you learn tae spot pure water and this place passed the test. And gave me shelter from the storm I walked into.” He placed his hand on the bark of the old oak tree whose branches served as his bed that night. “So what now?” He asked looking out across the lake.
“Well”, Sabin tried not keep her gaze straight, and hoped nothing will betray her expression, “We… we bath… and then---”, at this point she could have no longer look at him, squeezing his hand tightly, letting his mind continue from there.
The big man nodded his face heating up some. They’ve already coupled, but that was under orders...well it started with that then grew into something far better. But doing it again this time of their own free will it felt different. He was sure they would enjoy it even more. With a nod and a sigh he released the woman’s hand and began undressing. “Oh dinnae we need your blood or something too?” He asked undoing the sleeves of his jerkin and pulling it off exposing his firm upper body to the air.
“Regarding this part… Denika’s words were not exactly clear to me. Do I need to cut my hand and bleed on your brand or so? Do you maybe recall how she did it when she put the brand on you?”, Sabin said and as if not caring at all she began to remove her own clothes; The weapons she gathered in a neat pile (safety measures) while the rest of the gear she placed further away so they won’t catch any rust. The rest of the clothing however, she put closer while gathering few bushes and other branches- something to be used to start a fire to warm up once they will get out of the water.
She then jumped in, diving and soaking her hair, rushing above and hugging herself. The water were indeed warm, but not enough and to make matters worse the wind was chilly. It felt like the evening was drawing closer than she originally thought, and realized they will need to hurry.
Galmied was so mesmerized by Sabin’s nude body that he nearly tripped over his pant legs before realizing he hadn’t taken his boots off yet. With an embarrassed sigh he pulled his boots of and worked out of the rest of his clothing. She did bring up a good point, the man had mostly blocked out the last ritual, but he would need to revisit the painful memories once more so as to end all this.
Once he was undressed he placed his clothes and equipment besides Sabin’s and waded carefully into the pond. It was a refreshing feel to his warm body, diving in he swam around under the surface for a few seconds before popping up behind Sabin pressing his body close to her so she could share his body heat. Wrapping the woman in his broad arms the Snow Elf answered. “If I remember right, Denika pricked her finger then traced the brand onto my skin. I guess you would need tae do the same?”
She enjoyed his body, and felt a ruge of heat expanding around her body as she pushed herself back to his embrace, “Sounds good!”, she kissed him and swam for a stoney area by the edges of the lake, where she noticed a prickly reed. She used it to bleed out her finger and made her way back to him, being careful not to wash the blood as she held her hand in the air above water, “Okay big boy, turn your back to me”, she helped him move his long hair over his shoulders, using her finger as a brush tracing his brand with her wounded finger, “I hope it won’t hurt”, she said as she used her own blood to draw over it, noticing it glowing with faint light.
But something felt wrong… She bit her lips so no moans of pain will escape her mouth, as to not worry him. It was good his face was turned to the other side. She placed her free hand over and above her right breast, feeling a strange burning, almost aching sensation. It was not painful per so, but it was uncomfortable. She wondered if it was a mosquito bite or a side effect of the ritual.
While still using the blood of her finger over his brand, she glanced at the wound and noticed something forming on her skin. She was worried, but said nothing, humming carefully, as she moved her fingers over his shoulder.
Galmied had to kneel in the water so the much shorter woman wouldn’t have to climb up his back. Though the idea of seeing Sabin jump up and down to reach was quite amusing, nonetheless he knelt down and began to focus whatever will he had into prayers that this would work. As she began the tracing, a fierce burning began to radiate from his brand to over his heart a little above his left pec. He groaned softly taking a few breaths, the pain wasn’t as bad as Denika’s magic punishment, but it still hurt plenty.
“Hmm I guess it’s working, I just hope the blood dinnae wash off when we begin the bath.”
“Worse case I can cut it again. The blood is a small price to pay for freedom”, Sabin said, pulling both of her hands from him, diving her body so the water rose above her chest. The last thing she wanted was for him to turn around, see the new mark and to worry, “Okay then”, she started to wash his arms and pull his head closer to hers. While still being together like this, knowing that they had to mate here and in such a limited time frame-- felt somewhat forced and Sabin had to make herself relax.
The burning of the mark didn’t help that either.
She moved her hands over his belly as she began to place soft kisses over his neck and nape, breathing near his ear, while still holding him close, almost cradling him. He obviously was too tall for that, so he had to lean back and let the water carry his body above the surface, “Are all the snow elf this big?”, she teased him and chuckled softly while playing with his hair, “I find it so hard to believe, but I am always fascinated to learn at how different other people and races exist in our world”, she kissed his neck some more, now using one of her hands to push water over his body and hair, “Where I come from, there is a ritual of placing a maiden on the throne. You need to take a mug of oil and soak her hair with it. Something about it being symbolic to having a crown”, she took some water in her hands and dipped it over his head and hair, “I now crown you the king of the lake”, she laughed softly, still holding him close, “And since you are king, you obviously cannot be slave anymore… this is why from here on out you will live as a proud man, Galmied.”
While the burning sensation continued to grow in his chest the woman’s hand made him inch away and try to cover a laugh. Leave it to a Dark Elf to find a man as ticklish as he, but he focused on watching her wonderful body as it moved around him in the water. His body reacted as any man’s would, but the water hid it from obvious view. Wiping water from his eyes he tried to answer all her comments.
“Well lassie, Snow Elves are the biggest race o’ Elf in Eisignol. I am 6’8 which is tall, the average Snow Elf just being 6’1 or 6’2, but there have been records o’ Elves going over 7 foot tall, but that hasnae been since the time o’ old King Alistair he was 7’3 and all his court and family were close tae that height. But we were a mightier, prouder race then.” He frowned a little, but shook it as he was dubbed King of the Lake which made him smile and let out a short laugh.
“Well every King needs a Queen my Valkyrie. And now it is my turn tae bathe you.” Standing back up he began scooping up water into his large hands and pour it over Sabin’s head watching the droplets trickle down her smooth dark skin. He started with her head running his fingers slowly through her hair working all the tangles out and slowly moving his hands her faces and shoulders.
He leaned down and kisses Sabin on her lips while his hands scooped up some more water and poured them over her shoulders and torso his hands roaming slowly across her breasts his finger tracing the bump forming at the top of her right boob. He looked at it hmm softly before leaning in and kissing it and move down her torso teasing her breasts slowly before he began kissing back up to her lips his hands rubbing the water down the flesh before he lifted her from the water a little and set her on his hip. He winked at her before he stepped into a deeper part of the pond dunking them both under the cool clear water. Once they were under he looked into Sabin’s eyes for a few seconds before he kissed her deeply pulling her body close to his own.
He held the kiss for a few seconds before he surfaced with Sabin still sitting on his waist.
“I’d say we’re clean now.” He chuckled lightly.
“Good”, Sabin said, as a wicked smile spread on her face, “But I think you missed a spot”, she pushed him back under water, leading his body down the water as she rose over his, surfacing from time to time to grab air and give it to him through kisses, while still holding his body close and under water.
She knew that he was able to withstand this. He seemed to show he was capable even more underwater, so she continued to tease him as she attached herself to him, and once she had her fur, allowed them both to raise their heads slowly over the surface--- both gasping for air. She placed her legs around him, moving as she kissed his neck, “I think we are clean now…”, she chuckled. To be honest, she was very surprised with herself. It’s been a while she was able to let go and enjoy herself. She continued her attack of kisses, moving her lips down from his neck to his chest, nuzzling him, hearing the “poking” sound as the edges of their hair dripped tears of waters back into the lake.
Galmied groaned softly at Sabin’s attentions.
“Hmm dinnae forget the last part, magic needs tae be coursing through the brand tae clear it.” With that final thought Gelmied began the third part of the ritual. Consenaul pleasure and mutual hope flushed out all doubts from the minds of the Elves. They were separate entities before, but in that moment they became one, two souls melded together in something as honest and true as nature itself. The water churned around them and the air seemed to shimmer as magic Sabin thought was too dormant to come to the surface began to course through their bodies and into her hand as she clutched to Galmied’s broad shoulders for support as his hands were clapped around her buttocks guiding her body into his.
The magic burned through the brand and an audible click like a key in a lock rang through their ears as their voices rang out in pleasure and pain. The intensity of the seal breaking caused all the magic Denika had bound in it to be released. And as their chests pressed together in the final moments before the ritual was complete a bright flash of light erupted between them and
Galmied let out a final yell and reached release. The brand on his back shrunk to two lightning bolt shaped scars and on his left pectoral muscle a new brand appeared, this one of a waxing crescent moon. His body spasmed as he held Sabin to his body feeling her entirely around him.
Sabin gasped as she fully accepted him into herself, losing herself and her grip over him, feeling her body experiencing so many things at once--- Pleasure, pain, excitement, fear--- as she was becoming numb, losing control of her own body.
She couldn’t speak for several minutes, still panting and reliving the feeling, a smile spreading over her lips.
The water enveloped around her body as she realized Galmied has made them both sink under water. She shivered, both from the sudden feeling of cold water, and the aftermath of their mutual deeds, she used the water to wash her face and his, placing her head on his chest, inhaling and exhaling, “We… should… definitely… try this… again”, she laughed, while coughing, “Ouch…. Rough… but I like it…”, now that the feeling returned to her body, she realized that the pain above her breast was still there. She looked at it, but only briefly, as she was far more interested in the reaction of the blue skinned elf in front of her. What would he say next? How would he react? Has the ritual worked?
Galmied chuckled keeping his hands on Sabin’s bottom as he too caught his breath. Everything was tingling with magic and it felt like a huge weight he didn’t even know was there had been lifted from his shoulders. Where they were once constantly tense and twinged with pain, now they felt as cool and free as the ice flows of the north.
“Thank you my Valkyrie.” He leaned down to kiss her lips, but his head was still swimming from the ritual and he misjudged the target. He bumped foreheads with Sabin and suddenly they were both whisked away to a night many years ago that Galmied had long since blocked from his active memory.
They were like ghosts in the mist, the pair of them were floating in a large long hall in the heart of Stormgard. Before them a much younger Galmied, this one smaller, leaner, his hair was much shorter and he had an imperial beard growing on his grim face. He was dressed in the garbs of a city guard, pale blue scale mail armor, a gray kite shield across his back, and a Snow Elf long sword at his waist.But he was hidden in the shadows of the torchlight.
In the center of the empty, a Snow Elf woman, his closest in age sister Igna was on the ground. She was dressed in the long white tunic of a Scholar’s Apprentice, but her sleeves were torn and the dress itself was messy and blood smeared. Her face was bruised and tears were streaming down her face. In front of her was a half-naked Snow Elf man, he was a large specimen, but he held none of the nobility of features both Igna and Galmied had, he looked more like he was half Ogre. Ugly and misshapen, this was Elder Basit the Records Keeper of the Snow Elf Elders, and he was abusing his newest and prettiest student, Igna Ice-Sworn.
“Now, now Igna, dinnae ye want tae graduate from Apprentice this year? What did I tell you last week about crying during your lessons?” He licked his lips lustfully as he lifted Igna up by the front of her tunic ripping it open before tossing her across a nearby table making her lay on her back.
“No!”, Sabin hands reached forward, only to meet some unseen wall. A closer look at her hands made her understand that what she was experiencing now was some kind of out of body astral projection. She looked at Galmied for answers, but the last seemed to have his face bent, avoiding her. She bit her lips, thinking that she might learn more of what was happening, so she decided to just watch for now.
Igna coughed weakly trying to pull her torn tunic closed and inch away from her Master.
“Aye, but please Elder Basit. You’re so strong and rough, my parents are beginning tae ask questions about the bruises. I’m nae a warrior like my brother and sister, the excuse of training with the Guards is becoming less and less believable.”
The ugly Elder sneered wrenching the woman’s hands away from her bust.
“Then do a better job o' hidin’ it ya stupid girl.” He quickly slapped Igna across her face silencing her whimpers. Galmied face both in the vision and watching from the outside was clenched in so much pain and anger one would think he was the one getting slapped.
Sabin put her hands over his, making him realize the scene was only that, a scene. She was still silent, watching further with him, supporting him with his rage.
Without even saying a word she moved around him, hugging him tightly to get his hands flaxen and drop to his sides, as if saying “I’m here for you”, without words.
She continued to watch, anger forming within her as well.
What was this vision she was seeing, she wondered...
SikstaSlathalin
12-31-2017, 08:29 PM
Galmied was silent simply bringing his arms up and gripping Sabin's hands softly. He knew how this ended, he just wish he knew how to stop it. This was the night he screwed up his entire life, one rash move by a hot-headed young man and he finds himself without home without family and sold to slavers camped outside of Stormgard's walls.
"I was such a fool." Was all the ghost said, when the loud sound of Igna screaming as the Elder ripped the rest of her tunic open and began to force himself upon her. Then the young Galmied leapt from his hiding spot brandishing his sword.
"This end now!" He shouted throwing his kite shield and expertly hitting the Elder square in his head forcing him away from Igna who screamed and quickly scrambled from the table rushing to her brother's side. Basit growled as he crashed to the floor his partially pulled down pants tangling up his legs.
"Damn it Agamar! I'll have yer head for this!"
Agamar growled and rushed the downed Elder as he was getting his pants back up and buckled.
"No' if Ah take yer heard first ya swine!" Igna was quickly by his side staying his arm.
"No Agamar! Please dinnae kill him! We can report him tae the Guard Captain! He'll pay, but if ye kill him it'll be worse for you!" He strained against her hands, but he knew she was right. He growled and lowered his sword, he turned to leave but the Elder sneered as he regained his feet.
"Aye, report me. This unwarranted assault on an Elder will be quite the talk o' the town. Maybe yer family will give Igna and Halliy tae me as recompense. Then we all can have fun every night." Igna gasped as Agamar turned and let out an angry roar swinging his sword with deadly intent cleaving the corrupt Elder's head from his body. Igna let out a piercing scream and this brought a squad of roaming guards to the room they busted the door down, all they saw was the headless Elder and the angry warrior with the bloodied sword standing over him.
The vision ended with the guards swarming Agamar and he willingly giving up his blade. Everything went blurry then the two Elves were back in the pond still holding onto each other. But Galmied'd eyes were moist with tears. He couldn't look at the woman the shame was too great.
“Galmied..”
Sabin moved her body around him, now facing him and watching his puffy expression and soaked eyes. She used the water to raise above him and lift his chin so he could look at her. She then planted kisses under both of his eyes, licking some of his tears, “You are so brave… Carrying on your back the sin for your actions… A sin that should have been otherwise awarded for bravery in a better world…”
Slavery… elders respected above laws… rules that made you forget your friends for the better good…
Such sins…
This world was so messed up…
But Sabin thought little of it.
Even when she choose Galith over her mission when fighting Y’gol, she knew that if the situation would occur again, she would have freed her friend instead of finishing her mission once more.
And here, her proud blue lion protected his sister from such a horrible abuse… making himself forever hated and branded...
Sabin moved her fingers around his neck and nape as she attached his head to her bosom, enjoying the way he felt against her naked skin, his hair overflowing and sprawling on the surface, like a delicate water flower.
She then moved her fingers into his head and played with few locks of his hair while she kissed his forehead deeply.
“You have nothing to be ashamed of Agamar…”, she said softly, enjoying the way the name rolled on her tongue, “This was justice…”
SikstaSlathalin
01-02-2018, 01:36 AM
The Snow Elf sighed kissing the top of the woman's chest shaking his head.
"Agamar is no more lass, he died many years ago. I am only Galmied the Disavowed now. If I had listened tae my sister and gone tae the Captain. Basit would've been removed from his post and imprisoned. Instead I killed him, and Igna was too scared of reprisal from Basit's supporters tae speak out on my behalf. I was a fool and have been paying for it every since."
He let out a deep sigh and brushed Sabin's hair from her face.
"Come we still have things tae do my Valkyrie." He offered her a weak smile very much like the one he gave her on their first night. "If we survive the coming fight we can come back here and do this again." He leaned down and kissed her lips before separating from her inviting embrace and wading his way back to the shore.
Sabin watched Galmied as he swam back to the shores, and her heart was heavy. She realized that it will take much more for the ice elf to warm up. He still consider himself guilty, and while he may be sinned with taking a life in an unhonorable way, he did hurt the man who took the pride and purity of one of his kin, and the only real price for that was blood, at least that's how Sabin saw it.
Still, she decided not to press on before he was ready to talk further, and before long she grabbed her clothes and gears and began a fire to warm herself up, “We still have some time, dry yourself for few minutes before dressing up, and then we can go back to the city”
***
“Hoi’re die’ya suppose ti’er open irt?”, Shani shook the cube which was given by Goliath as if it was a dead chicken about to be plucked.
Hasher looked at Xandra with pleading eyes, “Can you please take it from her, before she will make us all meet the maker!”
Xandra smiled and did so, explaining to the tiefling that opening the cube will require magic and not force. While going over the mechanism she noticed that almost the entire group of the Red Blade Guild were posting themselves as ready blades for the coming fight.
“This portal of the cube should not be opened here. The magic will not last long, and we need to be wise with how we use it. I’d say it will buy us big enough magic to summon at least 20 golems... Which should be enough… I will active it once the battle starts”, Xandra said slowly.
“Who are we waiting for then?”, asked Dasher Wolfgrain who had just joined the rest.
Xandra then spotted the two coming elves and smiled, “No one… everyone is here…”, realizing it was not Yaorlan who was following Sabin she chuckled softly, “Hmm… well, she sure replaced him rather quickly...“
SikstaSlathalin
01-06-2018, 09:50 PM
As Sabin and Galmied entered Sāmhach the Snow Elf felt a shiver go down his spine. It wasn't the cold, but an apprehension. Like a large storm was brewing on the horizon, but it was more likely Denika was coming around from whatever Sabin did to her. She was going to very mad and a very powerful Mage, two things that never go along together.
He studied the gathered group waiting in the town square, two Werewolves, a tall human Knight, an Inkkin, a Spellsword, a Tiefling, and a Mage. Not exactly a formidable fighting force. The slave studied the town next, it had tall wooden walls with spikes, one gate with closing doors, a few of the buildings were tall enough to snipe from, but depending on the force Denika mustered against them it might not help. She was a skilled Necromancer and this land has been a battlefield for centuries. Dwarves, Elves, Humans, and Varomaor thousands of nigh immortal fighters at her total command.
He hoped they had a plan or some more fighters arriving late. Hashed seemed to see the big Elves thoughts and nodded towards the woodlands to the south.
"I've sent word to Sėth and a few of the hunters living in the forest. But most of them are out hunting far from the mountains or finishing up their crop harvests. They'll help us when they can, but we will still need a good plan for all this."
"How...about...some...more...muscle?" A deep whispering voice said from the shadows at the back of the town square. The group quickly turned weapons and spells ready as Y'gol slowly emerged from the darkness his cleavers strapped to his back and his animal helmet cleaned and polished. Besides him was Guk-Guk with her hammer on her shoulder smiling broadly.
"We comea to help!"
The defenders lowered their readied attacks, but kept a wary eye on the Ogre and his wild little cub. As always Buckblood's reputation preceded him, but having such a dangerous creature on their side might make a difference. Either by fear or sheer power and ferocity.
"Y'gol!", Sabin smiled and turned around to look at Galmied in order to catch his expression. He didn't look very happy at the sight of the ogre.
The tension and waiting draw so much that Sabin broke the silence by saying, "I'll head ahead and scout!"
"Aye!", Shani moved closer, "I'de bea coming with ya"
They both nodded at each other as Shani activated one of her spells which caused her to be almost invisible, some kind of shadow skill, which Sabin was familiar with, as she used to work with Tiefling in the past.
"Can yer see me?"
"Yes!", Sabin said, her silver eyes glittering, "Well not completely, but I can still follow the light movements, and I can still listen carefully to get the better idea of where you are".
"Let's test it!", Shani licked her lips, "Shadow games?"
"By all means", Sabin smiled, as the Tiefling girl took off and Sabin followed her back into the surface.
In truth she was extremely nervous. She was very happy to free the snow elf, but she knew perfectly well that she indeed betrayed a friend. She really didn't want to face Denika.
SikstaSlathalin
01-08-2018, 04:11 AM
Btheack at the wooden fort the silence of abandonment was being disturbed by the faint moans of a woman. "Sabin...?" A plaintive voice asked the all consuming darkness of the small cold room. Sitting slowly up Denika pulled the cover up over her nakedness her lithe body shivering violently in the cold. With no answer to her call the Elf woman sat up fully her body still shivering and a hint of fear sinking into her formally smooth and confident voice. "Sabin?...Galmied?...Yaorlan?" More fear sunk in and with a weak cry Denika quietly crawled out from under her blankets and groped about in the darkness for her clothes and dressing as quickly and quietly as possible.
Once she was in her army uniform she felt warmer, but fear kept growing and her eyes were unfocused and blurred. While she didn't know it, Denika was suffering from an allergic reaction to the powder and chemical used to put her to sleep. It was early evening outside and nothing was amiss, but to the former Captain it was the dead of night in her mind and the fort was in ruins. She reached into her wardrobe and gently pulled out a tall thin object wrapped in soft violet cloth. The woman removed the cloth and tossed it back into the closet. She whispered an activation spell and a dull indigo light filled her quarters. Clutched tightly to her chest in a white knuckle grip was a silver staff with what looked like an egg shaped cage at the head. In the small cage a flawless amythist glowed from between the bars. This was the staff she took from her last Necromancy teacher, it took her a few years to master it but now it was her most formidable weapon.
All around her beguiled senses was smoke from recently burning fires and the signs of some bloody conflict.
"Who did all this?" She asked the desolation around her. There was much blood, but no bodies lots of destruction but no evidence of who did what or who was the victor. Just devestation in every direction her blurred eyes turned who could've done this? As the minutes ticked on the woman came to a frightful conclusion.
"Y'GOL!" She screamed at the top of her lungs. Only that rabid beast could've done this much damage so quickly. She has seen him do it before. When he killed Igin, the monster has been responsible for the greatest of her pains and hardships. First her soulmate, the first and only man she's ever loved, then he took her loyal soldiers from her even her favorite underling Galmied, and lastly the monster took Sabin her most treasured prize no doubt stolen away from Denika's very arms and killed. Maybe even ravaged by that sick Ogre before he ripped her limb from limb.
Curling in on herself Denika wailed in pain and anger. All things good in her life were gone everything dear and precious to her taken and destroyed by some souless demon from the deepest pits of the Void. The time for subtlty and deception was over, as the woman stood and wiped the tears away she began chanting a spell and drawing sigils in the air around her as she moved through her room and down into the fort then into the courtyard. The sigils glowed with tthe same evil purple glow as her staff and hung in the air for a few seconds before vanishing. The ground began to rumble and quake under her feet as she set foot into the cooling grass which she only blood soaked and blackend with soot. She reached the center of the yard as she formed the last sigil. She lifted her staff high and screamed the last intelliable word of her spell before she drove the butt of the staff deep into the earth.
As the sharp silver point penetrated the earth the rumbling suddenly stopped and only te sound of her quiet pained sobs could be heard for a few minutes before the ground within the fort and without deep in the forests split open and hundreds of ramshackle and rotting creatures began clawing out of the rocks and soil. Only size and equipment ttold of each creature's origins. Elves, Dwarves, Humans and many more began ambling to the fort, but a single order from the High Elf made them turn and begin running towards Samach.
"Kill Y'gol Skullborne and destroy the town of Samach that harbors him." She stood and jumped atop a skeletal horse thundering through her horde of the undead with fire and vengence in her ter-filled and blurry eyes.
Both the ladies, the Tiefling and the Dark elf had been gone into a long chase into the forest, and it was clearly Shani was the one who was enjoying herself the most, trying to see how much would Sabin be able to keep up with her.
It was a new sight for the Demon tainted woman to see. So far no one was fast enough, and if they were, they would not plan their moves to follow her, and even if they could tune themselves and guess her movements, once she was swallowed by the shadows, it was clearly the limit of the chase.
But Sabin could have seen what others couldn’t. Maybe not in the way normal people would see, but it was very easy for her to read on the movements. And despite her skill, she was not able to fool Sabin’s eyes, who were far superior to any other race, even for Dark Elves, Sabin’s eyes’ abilities were very extraordinary too. Much to be expected from a Matriarch’s heir.
“I smell the soil”, Sabin said after some time, halting.
Shani backtraced and turn to stand beside her, “What’dya mean?”
“The soil… the earth… it is the smell of the tunnels... Why would I smell it here, on the surface”.
“Smells funky tae me”, said the half demon, “Almost rotten”
“Death…”, Sabin nodded in agreement, “Almost like the kind of foul air you get from a corpse…”, Sabin closed her eyes and focused. It was clear that something unnatural was about to take place, or at least in the process of starting too. Which could have only had one explanation.
Well, there could be other reasons, but it was most likely that…
“Denika has awaken…”, Sabin said, as she quickly draw her blade. Guilt was spreading across her body, and it made her feel sick. She knew she had to relax or lose it. But how could she, when she knew very well how much Denika wanted this revenge, how much she planned for it, and how much she was risking everything to plot her scheme.
It would have been easier even, if the two were not close, but she knew that Denika loved her almost as a lover, and there she walked in and ruined it all, even stealing her man.
“Ye dinnae look well, almost pale”, Shani tilted her head, her tail swinging from side to side.
“I am fine”, Sabin took a deep breath. She clearly wasn’t well, but what could she have said to herself or the demon girl to make things be better?
The sounds of inhuman roars and growls filled forest air and dark shambling figured materialized among the darkened trunks of the trees. The women were in the direct path of a horde of the undead. Rotting corpse running alongside skeletal monsters moving in unison like waves on the ocean. And when they saw the women that ocean became agitated and began stampeding after them.
“Ohy shit!”, Shani took out her Katars as she swiftly danced her way between the lines, trying to cut as much of the skeletons as she could. It was horrible, because most of them had a lot of meat still lingering on their bones, and the smell of decaying flesh was disgusting.
“By all that is holy!”, Sabin’s eyes danced in their sockets, surprised from the sight. She considered slavery as foul, but seeing a magic that could abuse the will of those beyond the grave was horrifying. How low did Denika go to master such skill? Necromancy was considered to be such evil magic school branch in her eyes, she couldn’t have understood why anyone would like to toy with broken creatures… with no soul…
At least the doll mistress had some redeem qualities about her art. She never abused a will, of body and soul, even of those that no longer possessed their husks. Elements had the options to resist, and leave.
And mortals? Obviously they didn’t have will about them…
Why had Denika gone to such extreme…
Sabin withdraw her blades and followed Shani into attacking the undead, imagining them screaming at her to stop their misery.
The zombies were undaunted and only partially slowed by the efforts of the two women. There was just too many of them for two warriors even two as experienced as Sabin and Shani to handle. The horde thundered past them their ultimate goal the town with the Dark Elf and Tiefling just being annoyances.
Shani growled holding off slicing her next target.
“We cannae fight ‘em. We need tae get back tae town an’ try tae hold them off as one.” She nodded towards Sāmhach then took off at the quickest run she could muster.
“Yes, we should!”, as the Dark Elf was about to dash forward, she felt something hitting her thigh. It was weak energy, but she could tell it been some energy beam of some sort. Turning around, at the distance, she noticed a rather familiar figure. Her eyes widen as she felt herself stuck in place, the fear gripping her.
It was Denika.
Denika was still trapped in an illusion, she didn’t see Sabin just some faceless creature in her horde who wasn’t moving fast enough and she wanted all of her minions to reach Sāmhach as one so the beast wouldn’t be able to fight them off.
“Move you damn sack of bones!”
Shani saw Sabin freeze then grunted and grabbed the woman hauling her up and back into running from the monsters. Being quicker than Denika and her horde the women arrived in Sāmhach and shouted for them to close shut the gates.
“The undead are comin’! Close the bloody gates an’ use that gem thing!”
The Defenders slammed and barred the gates and Xandra began working her magic to summon the Golems this object was supposed to summon.
The time ticked by and the Defenders could hear the rumbles of the undead as they charged through the forests all around them Denika riding hard at the front of the Horde she only saw Y’gol and many small copies of him waiting for her to slay him.
At first Sabin was extremely surprised. Could it be that that the Elf general failed to see her? No that couldn’t be it…
Maybe… Maybe something went off with her…
It was still so damn weird, why would she call her as if she was one of the zombies?
It was clear that at this point Sabin was really not up to fight anything. She put her face between her hands, confused and sad, and full of bad emotions and feelings. It couldn’t be that Denika would ignore her.
“What’s up, Saba?”.
The sweet voice of Guk-Guk brought some sense back into the mind of Sabin. She hugged the girl tightly, “I told you to stay and protect Papa Bone didn’t I?”, She smiled, seeing no traces of Y’gol, “Why did you two return?”
Guk-Guk frowned hugging Sabin shrinking a little at the sound of the monsters.
‘Papa said he no let someone fighta his fight for him. And he knew you woulda need him. And it look like he right.” She climbed into Sabin’s lap holding onto her as the woman picked her up and moved back to the center of town. “What be them Saba? Why that lady so mad?” The girl asked still holding onto the woman beginning to second guess her following her Papa down after he told her to stay safe in the cave.
“Papa bone and myself… we took something from her”, Sabin said after a long moment of silent, “Papa bone was a different man back then. He did something horrible to her. But he changed… That is why I will protect him, so he will protect you… And I also stole something from her…”, Sabin said pointing at Galmied, “Her prince… he was hers… I am not sure if he liked being her’s… I also caused her friends to not stay with her… because I was worried about them…”, Sabin shook her head, “She may be angry and dangerous… but she is very sad woman too”, Sabin looked at Guk-Guk, “Don’t hate her… But be careful of her… she will not hesitate to harm others”.
Guk-Guk gasped slightly looking between Sabin, Galmied, and Denika.
“Saba rescue her Prince! And she scare friends away! Saba you like Bandit Queen!” The Horde was now clearly visible and the Defenders on the walls began shouting at everyone to make ready and began peppering the creatures with projectiles managing to drop a few of them with arrows and incinerating ranks with fireballs.
Xandra knew little of these portal gems, but as with any magical object she assumed it would need charging. Luckily she’s been doing magic for awhile, she waved her hand and her Puppets in their own suits of leather armor came awake and joined the defenders in the square there was about fifteen of them armed with simple weapons, but with their Elemental spirits enhancing them they should be able to hold off some of the Zombies. With that the Puppet Master began summoning her will and forcing it into the cube. She could feel it begin to hum with life, she just hoped that it would work before the Undead Horde overwhelmed them.
Denika and her Horde were at the gates now and with a final screeching order the Zombies began hacking away at the wooden walls and climbing over each other reaching the ramparts only to be slapped down by the defenders, but there were more of them than Defenders.
The clicking sound of bones and dead flesh would cause even the bravest of hearts to flinch back, and the sight that follow was very terrifying. The crimson guild sure saw many of horrors, but most of them probably never saw a sight this grotesque and nauseating.
Like swarms of bees, they horde of the undead was endless, almost like a sandstorm in a desert, and the Lich queen was moving them forward with madness of determination.
Sabin never saw Denika like this. She looked at Galmied who was mesmerized at the sight of the pretty elf. Sabin was sure he saw many sides of her. Some were gentle, some were cruel, but she was sure even he didn’t ever see his mistress in such a reasonless state. The cube pulsed with powerful light and Golems began marching from out of the portal joining the Puppets and Defenders at the town center. They weren’t exceptionally powerful Golem just clay constructs, but they should be able to take a few Zombies down with them.
“I wonder what could have caused this change?”, Sabin asked a question to herself. She was sure Denika would not be pleased to see her army had left, most likely furious at the fact her man was not by her side, most likely upset at the sight of her friend siding with the Ogre, but she really didn’t expect Denika to appear like this, with such evil magic and mad behaviour. It was like reality itself had shifted away from her mind.
Sabin wondered if any of it might have been caused by the powder and elixir used on the High Elf, or maybe breaking the spell on the Snow Elf caused some knid of magical backlash that rebounded on Denika.Whatever it is, she wondered if there was any point in trying negotiations or discussion…
Obviously it will have to wait, Denika would have to be weakened first.
The sky above them turned dark as more and more havoc tore at the sky and ground. Denika was clearly going all out. The last of the Golem had passed through the portal and when no other clay creature emerged, the cube dropped to the ground powerless and exploded softly into the thin air.
But the skeletons tore through each of them, almost with too much ease, only the fortification holding them back from entering the city- The sound of alarm was loud and clear throughout the small town. The few townfolk still outside their homes screamed with horror, and ran into their rocky homes locking their doors and windows huddling in the dark hoping the defenders are enough.
From the outside of the walls came a tell-tale roar and Y’gol emerged from the darkness his cleavers already blackened with the old blood and bits of flesh from the Horde he managed to surprise on the western side of the town. Like an avalanche from the high mountains he charged through the ranks of Undead working on hacking through the walls. Parts of the undead flew everywhere as his deadly cleavers cut down the first wave giving the defenders time to regroup and begin focusing on area of effect spells and disabling the advancing creature to a crawling pace as their legs were shot out from under them.
It wouldn’t win them the day, but it helped Xandra commanded her Dolls and the Golems to climb over the walls and line them knocking back the wave of enemies not wiped out by Y’gol. They held, but none of them were designed for war. Clay Golems are normally used as heavy laborers and maybe shock troops to surprise enemies, but it was the Golems of Stone and Metal who were the true warriors of the group. And as for the Dolls most of the ones Xandra had were of the Mind Element and made to be servants, she’d bound a few Fire and Earth Elementals in some of her newer Puppets they were the fiercer fighters, but there was too few of them to make a huge difference. Right now the biggest card on the side of Sāmhach was Y’gol, the creature was a Dreadnaught. What creatures his cleavers didn’t take down his whip-like tail or huge mass did, but Denika saw her target before her and spurred her horse on.
The mad woman and her large steed collided with a distracted Y’gol and using the momentum of the horse and Y’gol’s size busted through the gates of the town and with this entrance opened the zombies began flooding in forcing the defenders off the walls and putting them into a fighting retreat trying to keep the rapidly closing in horde from overwhelming them.
As more and more voices cried, the havoc increased within the city. Sabin studied her surrounding she noticed that Guk-Guk had disappear from her view. She moved back to try and locate her, all the while pushing away fiends from her path.
Yet the Goblin girl was nowhere in sight.
The Defenders fought valiantly as one, but soon the sheer number of Undead forced everyone into a every man for themselves mindset. They helped when they could, but the creatures kept everyone in a constant state of running and fighting. Luckily the horde was more interested in fighting than destroying the buildings. Y’gol’s collar was beginning to heat up, but that just happened when he was fighting and his bloodlust was growing more volatile. He was so focused on ripping zombies apart that he too forgot to keep an eye on Guk-Guk, but she wasn’t alone.
The little Half-Breed was almost having fun despite all the terrifying creatures swarming the town. Bonk-Bonk was in constant motion and being swung at knee-level allowed the girl to keep out of the clutches of the creatures.
“Guk-Guk breaka you, an’ breaka you, and Guk-Guk double breaka you!” She giggled smashing her hammer down upon the Zombie’s head she loved the weird squish sound they made when she clobbered them. Bouncing around their legs and through their wide grabbing hands Guk-Guk made a tactical error every young fighter does. She kept backing up with no attention to where she was going, and soon she found herself with no where else to go. The Fiends were in front of her and the fence around the town was behind her with the sounds of more angry monster trying to climb up over the wooden palisades.
As the girl hit the wall and the reality sunk in this stopped being fun and she frantically looked around for one of the adults to call to for help. But she didn’t see anyone, fear began to sink in and her playful hammering became more panicked and she tried to bust her way through the creatures, but there were too many for her to handle. In a panic she shouted at the top of her lungs.
“PAPA BONE!”
Back at the epicenter of the battle Denika had stunned herself and destroyed her skeletal horse in her mad charge into Y’gol. And while the beast had been able to recover quickly the High Elf was thrown beyond the ring of defenders. She got to her feet after a few seconds then joined the fray her eyes clearing up as the effects of the toxins Sabin fed her began to wear off. So she could see she wasn’t fighting an army of Ogre, but a menagerie of fools fighting alongside the monster who would just as likely eat them as fight besides them. She let her creatures fight most of the Defenders she climbed to the tall gallows near the Inn and began using her magic to revive, rebuild, and redirect her army with quick waves of her hands. She was burning through a lot of magic, but she didn’t care she just wanted Y’gol’s head and to see the town burned to ash around her. From her vantage point she could see the little Goblin girl, and while she could never know the connection between the girl and the beast something in the back of her madened mind told her the child was important. And when she shouted “Papa Bone” and Y’gol was the first to look she learned the connection. The Ogre tried to fight his way towards the screams, but Denika tripled the concentration of Undead around the beast and double the ones around the child. They’d keep her busy until Denika could get there and grab her.
Guk-Guk was at her wit’s end the creatures had knock Bonk-Bonk out of her hand and she was down to using Snicker-Snack to just keep them from grabbing ahold of her. She continued to call out for her papa, but for some reason he couldn’t get to her. Tears were pouring out of the little girl’s eye and as the number of baddies seemed to double Guk-Guk lost her knife and took a hard hit to her abdomen and got thrown into the wall. She curled into a ball covering her head with her hands crying loudly. She was sure she was going to die when she heard a battle cry flying over her head and the wild slashing attacks of someone with a long sword.
Guk-Guk kept her eyes closed and her head covered until the constant growling and groaning of the zombies stopped and the only sound she heard was the heavy panting and snarling of a big person, but it wasn’t Papa Bone. Looking up she saw a big blue skinned Orc standing with his back to her with a wall of double killed Undead in front of him. The girl quickly retrieved her knife then studied the Orc, something about him seemed familiar.
“Who you?” The girl asked sheathing her little knife, it took a few seconds, but as the Orc decided the danger had mostly passed he calmed and lowered his sword looking at the girl. And he blinked in surprise, not in how little injury there seemed to be on the girl, but how odd her red eyes were. Goblins never have red eyes, that’s an...Orc thing. Before he could respond the girl had moved around front and her little jaw dropped.
“Daddy Krom?” She’d only seen her biological father a couple of times before she lost her Momma, but her keen young mind was always good with faces, and the big Orc in front of her looked almost exactly like her father though he was a lot bigger than her father.
Dire quirked his eyebrow and his right ear twitched a little. Did this little girl just call him Daddy Krom? How did she know his birth name? That’s impossible, Dire never had any children that would be this young. His mate has been dead for way longer than it looked like this kid had been alive. And the only kid he ever knew he had was a son, years ago when the Blacklake Guard were still around, back then it was all for the Guard and the Guard for all. The couldn’t always find Orcs to join their ranks so when the numbers were low the Captain would institute a… Rut for lack of a better word. All Orcs not already paired off were expected to mate nigh continuously, Dire was still named Krom and he bedded many females in that time. But the only one to ever tell him he was a father was a young female with the same color skin as him. She was one of the few the Guard recruited from the nearby cities and she was more of a romantic than most Orcish females in the Blacklakes. While not very common it wasn’t against any rules for the pairs to form a pseudo family even though all young belong to the Guard and are raised by the Guard. Her name was Ricka and she named their son Krom after him, Dire trained the boy some, but after Ricka died one winter and Dire was drafted into a ten year campaign between Dwarves and Humans they fell out of touch. Krom kept his name and managed to find Dire after the fall of the Blacklake Guard. And around eleven years ago Dire received a letter from his son telling him about his falling in love with a Goblin-whore turned watchmaker in Balefire and how they had conceived a child. That was the second to last letter he got from Krom, the last being nine months later saying how he was the Grandfather to a little Half Goblin Half Orc girl named Guk-Guk. After that he never heard of or saw Krom again and he just didn’t think about what happened to the girl or her mother. Death is part of life and Orcs know better than to attach much feelings to those around them, especially if they’ve never actually met the individuals in question.
But here they were, his long lost Granddaughter fighting a horde of undead abominations and he coming to her rescue. Crouching down he shook his head slowly.
“No, I’m Dire...your Grandfather. Krom...your daddy...was my son.”
“Gampa Dire?” Was all Guk-Guk said before a fireball crashed into Dire’s head sending him flipping over his back and into the wall. The Goblin girl couldn’t react before a cold mean hand grabbed her by her mohawk and hurled her into a animal’s sty. It was Denika and she decided she knew just what to do to get back at Y’gol. He took what mattered most to her so now she was going to take what mattered most to him. She kicked Guk-Guk hard in the side of the head and grabbed the little kid by the throat and began dragging her back towards the gallows with a group of her biggest underlings forming an impenetrable barrier around her, they looked like Jundr’s or Giants towering over even Y’gol.
“Crap!”, called Sabin as she dashed for the scene, only to hit the magic head on and being thrown some yards away from the impact, “Denika! Stop!”, she called to her, “Please she is only a child!”
SikstaSlathalin
01-12-2018, 09:05 PM
Sabin's pleas fell on deaf ears as Denika mounted the steps to gallow and dragged the girl up after her. Guk-Guk had regained some of her senses and began fighting against Denika. But Denika's muscles were empowered by her mad state and the massive quantities of magic she was exerting to keep her horde going. As she reached the top she quickly scratched Guk-Guk across her face and used the child's blood to boost her magic and amplify her voice.
"Y'GOL SKULLBORNE, BEAR WITNESS TO THE PAIN YOU SO CALLOUSLY DEALT ME! FIRST IGIN, THEN GALMIED AND MY MEN, AND THEN YOU KILLED MY BELOVED SABIN! I WILL USE HER BLOOD TO BRING THIS MOUNTAIN DOWN UPON YOUR HEAD!" She screeched her last words and Y'gol watched in horror as the Elf pulled a long sacrificial knife from her belt and lifted it high the clouds above them rumbled with thunder and lighting and a torrential downpour began to fall down upon the besieged town.
Most defenders were forced against the buildings. But Galmied had fought his way to Sabin's side and say in full horror what Denika was about to do. But like Sabin and the others there were too many Undead between them and the High Elf. Guk-Guk was now at full awareness, but she was too terrified to fight she simply stared at the knife locking eyes with Y'gol through the lines of monsters.
"PAPA!" Was all the girl said, and it was all that was needed. The Ogre had been holding his own well, but as the Elf addressed him and showed her intent. It stopped the beast from fighting and the Undead swarmed him jumping onto his body and forcing him to his knees making his watch what was going to happen. But the more he looked the more his collar began to burn, he felt a rage and sorrow he'd never felt before even before he was imprisoned. Before his rage was more from annoyance than actual anger or pain. Things stopping him from eating or getting away, but now before him was the one thing in the world he loved more than anything.
His cub was crying and bleeding and a madwoman who Y'gol didn't even think would be so mad at him after years of being out of her sight was threatening her life. He didn't care about his own safety or even the safety of the town and the townspeople meant little to the father. Tears began to fall from the eye holes in his skull helmet and the rage was filling his entire frame. He shook the helmet off and the pain was obvious on his ugly face, the necklace began to glow orange, than, than white, until it finally shattered the built up magic knocking the zombies down all around him and some in the way of Galmied and Sabin. The Grizzly Beast stood to his feet and let out the most powerful and pained roar (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_LFKNghYi8) he or anyone around him has ever heard. He was blinded with all the emotions the necklace has been suppressing for years, joy, lust, amusement, and even love. But above all them sorrow, anger, and his protectiveness over Guk-Guk ruled. Following the sounds of his daughter he charged forward rending undead like leaves in a storm.
It was only by sheer luck none of the Defenders were in his path. He was moving with intent and Galmied knew exactly where he was going. Using the distraction of the Father's Rage he plowed through the dazed horde and ran up the gallows and ripped Guk-Guk from Denika's grip mere seconds before Y'gol reached the gallows and tore through the sturdy beams like a hurricane his clawed hands grabbed Denika around her torso and with all the power and pain he could muster threw the High Elf back and completely through the wall of a large warehouse. The impact was so great the building began to collapse, but Y'gol didn't care this woman needed to die for threatening his child. The large beast bust through the rest of the wall bringing it down around them.
For many that would've been death, but neither combatant was easy to kill. Denika had her magic and Y'gol was Y'gol. The two burst through the rubble locked in battle Denika barely holding on using the last bits of her magic to keep her alive in Y'gol's initial assault. She managed to hurl a few fireballs at him before he caught her up and threw her again. This time back into the rubble of the Gallows. Denika was at her end and the effects of the toxin had finally run out, but she saw her death and was ready to rejoin Igin in the aether. Y'gol lifted up one of the support beams from the ruined warehouse and was running forward intent on crushing this Mage once and for all.
And the beam fall hard and his hand reached forward.
His long talons hitting and tearing the flesh, a burst of blood spreading on the ground, leaving a very bitter yet mesmerizing smell.
Sweet scent of pure blood… But it did not belong to the high elf.
Galmied’s terrible scream echoed louder than the most powerful banshee, as he saw Sabin being impaled at the hand of the ogre, her body twitching like a fish caught in a rod, pulled out of the water.
Denika eyes widen with horror, and for the first time since her mad attack, she had finally realized what was happening around her, or at least part of it.
“No”, the high elf sobbed, “Oh god no…”
The dark elf saved her life, taking the impact head on.
Sabin gasped for air, blood bursting out of her mouth with rage of wild coughs. The Ogre removed his hand, his whole body shaking as he was trying to help the delicate dark elf to lie down.
“I’m sorry Denika...”, Sabin said slowly, caring little for her condition. In truth she was afraid to die, but even while her vision was disappearing and her eyes saw only darkness, she only wanted redemption, “I’m sorry Denika… I took much from you… But please… please… with this… please… forgive the ogre…”, her breathing slow, “Y’gol”.
“I ammm hereeee”, his voice was low and rough.
“Please forgive Denika- Don’t hurt her further”.
Galmied shielded the eyes of Guk-Guk who kept trying to look over his shoulder. The last thing he wanted was for the girl to see such horrible sight, but in truth, he was trying everything to hold himself from falling apart right there. He was willing to go back to the shackles, was willing to put back time just to prevent this new woman in his life, his Valkyrie he cared much for- form being hurt like this. Fate seemed to be so cruel to him.
He cursed himself and his fate, as his blue hands reached over his chest almost by instinct, tracing the moon scar the ritual of him and Sabin made, trying to see if it was still there. He knew that once her lifeforce was gone, the symbol will disappear, and he expected to find nothing, But instead something happened… the symbol was still there, and was glowing... what more, it felt warm under his hands…
Were the gods toying with him? Or maybe… there was still something he could do just for the simple fact that him and her were now linked.
He pet the scar and pleaded it, asking for a miracle.
As Denika fall to her knees, sobbing so strongly, she noticed a light evorping from Sabin’s body, reaching from the icicle looking scar upon Sabin’s right boob. The aura spread around and into her body, somehow increasing Sabin’s healing regeneration… but that level of enchement seemed almost god like in nature… impossible... like a miracle...
Denika didn’t know what to make of it and couldn’t understand what was happening, but she did caught sight of the snow elf, who seemed relieved as much as she was.
The zombies fell to the ground, one by one, lifeless again. The few pieces of flesh they had rotted instantly and the skeletons dropped to the ground, collapsing and breaking apart like glass. Then the bones started to dissolve into ashes which were carried away by the wind, leaving no traces of them.
The clouds faded and the weather was calm once more, like a welcomed summer night, and the moon rose above, tracing its ray upon everyone.
Denika shook her head, realizing everyone was staring at her. She bent beside Sabin, seeing that the woman had almost fully recovered.
“Idiot”, Denika said.
Sabin smiled.
SikstaSlathalin
01-13-2018, 09:09 PM
The world seemed to let out a collective sigh of relief as Sabin returned to life and Guk-Guk ran to Y'gol's arms babbling on like they hadn't just fought a Zombie Horde or witness Sabin return from the dead. The night was spent cleaning up the town and ended just before midnight when everyone fell into deep slumbers. The rain returned, but it fell in gentle waves like the hand of a god wiping the bloody and scarred slate of the world clean. The storm rumbled gently across the skies and by dawn had gone away leaving the world warm and clean, like the beginning of spring.
Sometime during the night the High Elf who had recovered enough of her magic to heal herself had gone back to the fort and collected her belongings then returned just before the dawn had left her entire salary as a Captain on the table of the Inn with a single note under the large bag of gold coins.
I am sorry, I hope this helps make amends.
-Denika Lestaff
Galmied was the one to find it and knew the woman had already left Sāmhach. He gave the money to Xandra and Hasher then enjoyed a quiet breakfast before the rest of the people awoke to eat their morning meals themselves. After breakfast it was all hands on deck to repair the damages from last night's battle. Everyone lent a hand even Y'gol and the Mercs from the Red Blade Guild. It was like the happy ending in a child's fairy tale. A town of misfits and scoundrels working together to rebuild their home uniting under a common goal and finding camaraderie in the toil. It took the better part of a week to repair and even improve on some parts of the once sleepy mountain town.
But as with all good things the partnership came to an end. The townspeople left to tend their gardens and animals and the mercs left for the next payday. So at the dawn of the following week as Sabin and Galmied were packed and ready to continue on Sabin's mission to find out about the New Moon Clan only Xandra, Hasher, Dire,and Guk-Guk, appeared to bid them farewell. It was a somber occasion no one really wanting to see the other go, but no one really being able to think of a good reason to have the two Elves stay.
“She didn’t say anything else?”, Sabin gaze was still fixed outside of her room window, were she saw few children playing together. Guk-Guk was among them, ejoying herself.
“No”, Galmied answered softly, with somewhat apologizing tune. His hands rested on Sabin’s bed which was filled with a lot of flowers and “get well soon”, notes. It was amazing to see many of the Red Blade Guild joining together to take turns beside the dark elf’s bed, making sure she won’t die while recovering.
They had to-- Galmied didn't part from her side, and as the snow elf’s skin shade turned even more blue and dark, they had to promise him to stay instead so he could catch few hours of sleep himself.
Sabin already talked with him about how frightening the thought of dying was, and he told her how much he would have liked her to avoid such things in the future ---she promised to try her best. Only when he threatened to do the same heroic deed as her did she regained some common sense and promised to take care of herself better.
While spending the time together, the two learned that the symbols they shared held much more mystical connection than they even dared to believe. Xandra and the rest of the mages from the guild tried to study the scars, but none would give proper answers. Like Galmied have stated, such binding had a very specific role, and the likes of the way it acted for him and Denika was the only example known to the magic academy.
Xandra suspected that there might be further powers involved, or that they both harbored unfulfilled magical potential which have yet to surface.
Either way, the couple soon learned of another side-effect, which they used to please one another once Sabin got a bit better.
“I’m surprised she did even that… leaving money and asking for forgivness…”
“Yes", Galmied said, “The proud captain would not do something like that. That seems to be so unlike her…”
“Maybe she had changed”, Sabin looked at the snow elf, her silver eyes full of hope.
Galmied swallowed. He knew the captain much better. He wanted to believe that this was indeed the case, but something in the back of his mind told him that this action was only something small… compensation… Something to say that she indeed lost this battle but not the war. He couldn’t help feeling this was not the last they will see of her, or the fact that her anger was truely subdued. But seeing Sabin like that, so hopeful and happy… He rather have kept those thoughts to himself.
“Maybe”, he leaned in to kiss her, trying to avoid pressing the areas that were stabbed, as Sabin was still recovering after all.
***
“It’s time to go”, Sabin thanked each of the guild and inn members, hugging Guk-Guk tightly.
“Saba gotta go?”, it’s been a wonderful week so far, parting from the dark elf whom she started to view as a maternal figure was somewhat hard to bear.
“We will visit”, Galmied said, “We will buy you gifts”, he bent so he would meet Guk-Guk’s eyes and touched her nose, “Lots of gifts- so make sure you take good care of town and your father while we are away”.
“Speaking of which… where is Y’gol?”, Sabin asked suddenly, realizing it has been at least 3 days since she last saw the ogre.
SikstaSlathalin
01-13-2018, 11:07 PM
"Running errands." The rough voice of Y'gol chimed in as he rounded the corner of the Guild hall carrying a large bag across his back. Ever since he broke the necklace the Ogre's usual slow halting speech had vanished. Though his voice was still rough and quiet he spoke with a kind of regained intelligence. He could put feeling into his words now and it allowed him to say what he thought as he thought it.
Guk-Guk smiled and ran up to her Papa hugging him tight. "You bringa the gifts Ms. Magic and Wolfy ask the leather man to make?"
Y'gol nodded patting the girl's head fondly."Yes my cub and something a little extra for you."
Guk-Guk squealed happily. She loved getting gifts especially gifts from Papa Bone. She clung onto his leg and laughed merrily as he walked forward with her hanging on. He nodded to Xandra and Hasher then dropped the sack opening it for the Innkeepers. He then pulled out a small box and shook his child off and handed it to her. The girl dropped to her knees and opened the box quickly, inside was a complete suit of leather armor. A vest, long pants, studded gauntlets, and spiked boots lined with rabbit fur. Each piece was in the child's size and she quickly took off her fur boots, gauntlets, and cape and dressed in her new armor before donning her fur cape again. She laughed and danced around, this was her first armor and she loved how it felt against her skin.
The Puppet Master smiled sadly at the little girl wiping a tear from her eye. The Were wrapped his arm around her and kissed her head. Y'gol asked them to help him pay for the armor and told he told them why he needed it. But they would let him spoil the surprise involving Guk-Guk. They moved to the sack and pulled out two decent sized packs and a smaller satchel. Hasher hefted the packs and Xandra carried the satchel and together they presented them to the departing Elves. Hasher presented the bags to each Elf.
"These are for your journey and thanks from all of us in Sāmhach. Masterfully made travel packs and enough supplies to get you through a week or so on the road." Xandra sniffled again handing the smaller bag to Y'gol, it was too small for either of them and it was filled with things a child might want like a small book, some sweets, a short red dress and a very distinctive Doll with a shiny bone skull helmet.
The Ogre looked down at the bag sadly then at Sabin.
"Sabin before you go may I...make a request?" His voice was softer than before and sadness trickled from the words.
The Dark Elf finished inspecting her bag then placed it on the ground nodding to him.
"Of course Y'gol, anything."
Y'gol reached down and stroked Guk-Guk's head lovingly.
"Will you take Guk-Guk with you?"
Everyone but Hasher and Xandra gasped Guk-Guk gasped the loudest.
"Papa no want Guk-Guk anymore!" The child began tearing up all the old memories of people giving her up when they got sick of her coming back to the surface.
Y'gol knelt down and picked the girl up hugging her tight hushing her gently.
"Of course I do Guk-Guk. I want you to stay with me more than anything, but you deserve more than I can give you." He kissed her gently looking at a shocked Sabin. "I want her to have a better life than I did as a child. And I want you to give it to her Sabin, teach her the things I cannot. How to read and write, how to be intelligent and speak like a Scholar." He chuckled at the last request. "And show her what it means to grow from a girl to a young woman." He set the still watery-eyed girl down kissing her head. "Is that ok with you cub?"
The little Goblin wiped her eyes and nose and thought for a little bit.
"Will Guk-Guk be allowed to coma back and see Papa? An-and what if Guk-Guk get hurt? How Papa know?"
The now gentle Ogre nodded.
"Of course you can come back...and"
"Your Gampa Dire will be there to protect you." Everyone looked up as Dire who has been silent this entire time spoke up crouching down to the girl level patting her back. He'd been thinking it over the entire week. He's been alone for so long he was ready to fade into obscurity, but after the battle when he found out he had a granddaughter his mind began racing. This little girl had lost her mother. her father, and now was about to lose her Papa. He couldn't let any more pain and trouble befall the girl. While he wasn't even sure if the girl wanted to know him as a Grandparent, but he had to at least try. Guk-Guk's eyes welled up again, but she nodded as she jumped back into Y'gol's arms hugging him fiercely.
"Ok Guk-Guk go, but she not be happy about it. And Guk-Guk teach Gampa to not interrupt someone talking."
Both Dire and Y'gol chuckled as they stood up and Y'gol handed the satchel to Dire who draped it around Guk-Guk's narrow body. The Ogre then placed the girl down and she quickly looked through the bag grabbing up Lil Bone and one of the candied chestnuts popping it into her mouth and crunching down.
Y'gol smiled back at Sabin.
"So what say you Elves? Will you take Guk-Guk and her Grampa with you?"
Galmied chuckled shouldering his bag.
"The more the merrier." He smiled at Sabin waiting for her answer like everyone else.
“I am fine with this!”, Sabin said.
This day has surely bore much surprises within. The Girl Guk-Guk had found a lost relative and Y’gol seemed set on a new and healthy path, for himself and the girl.
Sabin was really happy to find out that Galmied was okay with more companies, a thing she appreciate much about partners.
She knew she wanted Guk-Guk to study some profession- And she had some idea where it could be done. Sadly she knew she wouldn’t be able to keep the girl with her as she still had her own private quest, and risking the girl was unthinkable.
She squeezed Galmied’s hand and the other whispered in her ear, “We will take her to the next town. It is about seven days walk from here- we could let Guk-Guk and her grandpa adjust there as well. Besides there is much I wish to learn from the Orc. He fought in a very intersting manner, and I wish to be taught as well”.
“Well, with your size and color I’m sure you’d be passable as one too”.
Galmied kissed her, “Laugh it up fuzz-ball!”.
Sabin chuckled, “I want Guk-Guk to study to tame the ore. Maybe blacksmith? She is talented, and I’m sure she learned much from her late mother”.
“It’s perfect then, in the Capital city of Excelsior, the city I aim for us to go, there are many talented smiths, and I’m sure one could take her in and-”
Sabin expressioned changed swiftly and the snow elf could tell something was wrong, “Hey, I know there are a lot of humans there, but I’m sure that they will take her- Not everyone are racists…”
“Yes, yes, or course”, Sabin bit her lips.
Would she be able to tell him that there was another reason she felt uncomfortable going there…
Would he understand if she told him another man… a lover… was bound to be found there as well…
TO BE CONTINUED! (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90270)
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