Draiss nodded. "I know, I took most of the protection down that kept the taint from directly interacting with everyone. I don't think everyone understands just how much of my power I use to keep it completely contained. It never tries anything other than talking, but I would rather not take the chance. I think it wants me back under control, before it seeks out other hosts.<br/><br/>As for the blackguard, we talked, he unlocked something inside me, and then he asked me to help him die. His power then joined mine. I am not a thirteen any more. I am a fourteen, possibly even a fifteen now. I haven't had a chance to really try out my powers and see how much more powerful I am, but there is definitely more power."