The Great Evil
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Extreme =&gt; Extreme Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Narianna on 30-01-2011, 23:05:05</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>30-01-2011, 23:05:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Interest Thread (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96253.msg4182751#msg4182751)<br>OOC (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96660.msg4199599#msg4199599)<br>Character Thread (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199623#msg4199623)<br><br><hr><br><strong>At Earth’s very core, lay the blackest of souls. Condemned to rot in his eternal prison, the greatest of all evils lay dormant, unconscious for millions of years. His indefinable form motionless.<br><br>Slowly, ever so slowly, a conscious thought formed in Angnhil’s mind. <em>Wake</em>, it whispered. <em>Wake!</em> came the command a bit stronger. Angnhil’s mind was almost able to wrap its lethargic fingers around the demand given him. <em>WAKE!</em> The command roared in his ears. With that, Angnhil’s eyes popped open and he blinked for the first time in millions of years.</strong><br><br><hr><br>Somewhere on the shores of Australia, a small peaceful village of Halflings was nestled in a port area. The lazy languid race milled about their daily activities, which consisted of eating, fishing, whittling, and perhaps a little trading.<br><br>A low buzz could be heard as the wind picked up and suddenly a hurricane type gale created a tidal wave above and beyond the likes the poor little Halflings had ever before seen. All they could do was blink as the water crashed to the shore atop them.<br><br><hr><br><strong>Zeus stood at the entrance of his castle on Mt. Olympus. His silver eyes gazed out at the multiple homes below his, over the vast region. His white beard flowed gently in the wind. His jaw was set in a grim expression. He heard a rustling of cloth behind him.<br><br>Hera placed a soft silken hand on Zeus’s robed shoulder. He turned around to regard his beautiful wife. Her honey brown hair was put up in curls beneath a golden diadem that sparkled in the rays of Apollo’s light. Her warm brown eyes were forever laughing happily as she looked up at him. Her supple pink lips were irresistible. Her white robes, lined with golden rope, hung about her tall frame. Peacock feathers lined the back of her collar, creating an array of feathers behind her head.<br><br>Hera stroked his cheek with a delicate hand before switching her golden scepter. “It’s almost time, my Love,” She said in that sweet innocent voice. No matter how many times Zeus warmed someone else’s bed, he always came back to Hera and Hera always welcomed him home with open arms. “It wakes.”<br><br>Zeus looked down at her and nodded, giving her as much of a smile as this situation offered. He took a deep weary breath and sighed at the uncertain future.</strong><br><br><hr><br><strong>The weather on Mt. Sarias was particularly vicious today. The wind whipped, the thunder cracked and boomed, the lightening surged, and the dark clouds rolled. Vakortur’s castle stood large and intimidating. The decaying black brick was splattered with blood from the dragon head drains surrounding the building. Vakortur stood at the entrance to his castle in human form, watching the other Gods approach for the meeting. Even in human form, Vakortur was imposing. He stood at seven feet tall with white dread locks, pulled back from his face. His skin was tan but shimmered with a silver glaze which only emphasized his muscular frame. He wore black leather pants and a black flowing robe left open, showing the silver metal that encircled his massive pectoral muscles and framed his abdominal muscles. His head was adorned with a black crown of barbed wire.<br><br>He turned and focused his black orbed eyes on Satuimae as she approached. She was as beautiful as always in her human form, with her lithe frame standing six feet five inches tall. Her long wavy black hair was settled under her own black crown of thorns. She wore a long black evening gown that hugged every inch of her pale skin. The gown consisted of many threads wrapping about her body like a spider web, in recognition of their son, Yuhid. Her beloved raven perched faithfully on her bare shoulder.<br><br>She stood beside him and took his hand lovingly, staring out at the other Gods crossing the bridge covering the mote of blood below. Vakortur was most likely the only person Satuimae had ever been loyal to in her entire long life as it was her nature to deceive. For this reason alone, Vakortur loved her more than anything.<br><br>The couple turned and approached their thrones on the dais as the rest of the Gods entered the room. Vakortur and Satuimae settled in their thrones made of black stone, bone, and skulls, and waited until all the other Gods had gathered before them. Vakortur held his hand up to quiet the room of Gods before he spoke.<br><br>“A great evil force has awakened,” Vakortur began, unable to hide a grin. He opened his mouth to speak again, ignoring his brother Zanaen’s random giddy laughing outburst accompanied by clapping. They had all long since grown accustomed to the large battle ready warrior’s displays of insanity. “Angnhil, he calls himself. I’m sure you all remember this being’s first appearance. The Olympian Gods,” he sneered at the mention of their name and was joined by hisses from the others, “trapped his soul beneath the Earth before we were able to get our hands on him. For millions of years I have called to this being. At last he has come out of his dormant state,” he paused to let the incredibility of his statement sink into those around him. “But those Olympians plan to stop and destroy him. We can <em>not</em> let that happen. I want this Angnhil for my own.”<br><br>Zanaen frowned, “Why do <em>you</em> get to have him, Vakortur? I want him. Think of the chaos I could wreak!” Zanaen clapped again giddily.<br><br>Yuhid skittered forward. “I should be the one to use him, Father. Think of the fear I could strike in the hearts of people!”<br><br>Lothmia shrieked, “He should be <em>MINE</em>, you <em>fools</em>! Everything should be <em>mine</em>! There would be no end to the corruption I could cause!”<br><br>“SILENCE!” Vakortur bellowed, lust for their blood making him salivate. Rising to his feet quickly, he took his true form. His body grew to twenty feet in height. His skin became pure black, marked with red, his eyes became red orbs and his head grew horns. His hair darkened to black and elongated, breaking the tie’s hold and flowing freely down his back. His feet became hooves and he grew a tail that thrashed about furiously. Even his son, the God of fear, took a step back in terror. “Angnhil will be <em>MINE</em>! Speak to me again of this fairness and I will end your existence!”<br><br>The rest of the Gods shrank away and nodded silently, the fear in their eyes obvious. Satuimae rested a hand on his gigantic leg. She was the only one that could touch him in this state without being torn to shreds. Vakortur took a deep breath and calmed himself, returning to his human form.<br><br>He stayed standing as he continued to talk. “There will be enough of this Angnhil to go around. Now. The Olympian Gods have been informed by their Fates,” once again he sneered, “that if they interfere this time, their powers will destroy their precious Earth. So, they have decided to use the help of some very powerful earthen mortals to stop and destroy Angnhil. We need to make sure they don’t succeed.” Vakortur stopped and waited for a response from the other Gods who just stared at him. “Well? We can’t just kill these mortals. We’re not prepared for another war with the Olympian Gods just yet. We’ll need the help from Angnhil for that matter.”<br><br>Nirituae stepped forward. Over the years her skin had gone black from her hatred and her hair was stark white. Two glowing red orbs stood in place of normal eyes. She wore a simple dark purple kimono and glared up at Vakortur angrily. “I know of someone that can stop those mortals. He is a mortal himself. He is one of those damn worshippers that keep calling my name…”<br><br>Vakortur put a hand up to stop her from continuing on one of her usual tirades about something she hates. “Are you positive this man can stop the Olympians’ mortals?”<br><br>“He’s a very powerful one. He will stop them,” Nirituae narrowed her eyes.<br><br>“Well I <em>too</em> have a mortal that can defeat these pesky Olympian mortals!” Benaul exclaimed, stepping forward. Nirituae turned her narrowed gaze and glared at him. “What? You didn’t think you were the only on with mortal worshippers did you?” Benaul preened before his audience, his tan body wearing little more than a low riding silk cloth about his ample godhood. “Mine is even more powerful than yours. I guarantee it,” he boasted.<br><br>“Fine. Go to them both in a dream and set them on the course of their destinies, then. We shall see how well this plan comes to fruition,” Vakortur dismissed the Gods with a wave of his hand as he sat back down on his thrown. He leaned back, placing his head in his hand and sighed, hoping this plan would work.</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>31-01-2011, 19:47:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Feldor’s Dream</span><br><br>The same woman of such purely ethereal beauty stood before Feldor once again, beckoning to him. Feldor knew it was Athena. Athena’s long brown hair whipped about her frame as the constant light wind wrapped a simple cloth about her taut body. Her brown hair glistened by an unseen light as she stood there in the surrounding mist. Her massive owl perched weightlessly on her right arm, her left hand still beckoning Feldor closer.<br><br>“Hurry, Feldor. There isn’t much time and the path before you is long and arduous,” Athena’s voice seemed to sing as she spoke.<br><br>With a wave of her hand, she laid the familiar map before Feldor and pointed, once again, to the clearing. Her large brown eyes grew wide with a pleading stare. She glanced over as Feldor’s white tiger came padding up. Her massive owl took flight bringing a light to Athena’s eyes. She looked down at the tiger and placed her hands upon its head. The tiger began to purr, or as close to a purr that a low growl can be. Suddenly the tiger grew twice his original size, his head now reaching Feldor’s chest. Athena backed up and nodded approvingly. She then walked very close to Feldor, her scent reminiscent of bay leaves. She leaned over to whisper in his ear.<br><br>“Your arrows have the gift of true shot. They will take longer to aim and shoot and can’t be used in close combat but they will hit your target every time,” Athena backed away but looked Feldor solemnly in the eyes. “Use them wisely for once the arrow has been shot, you cannot undo it.” She looked up and her owl immediately floated down to lite on her arm once more.<br><br>“You’re one of my most trusted Disciples, Feldor. Go and make me proud,” Athena paused and narrowed her eyes. “Don’t fail me.” And with that, Athena vanished.</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>31-01-2011, 20:01:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Elic's Dream</span><br><br>The vibrantly green grass rolled on for miles in all directions as Hermes sat back against the cloud and strummed his lyre. He had one knee drawn, displaying the silver metal of the winged boots he wore. He wore very finely made white leggings and white short sleeved silk top. Silver arm bands wrapped about his muscular biceps.<br><br>Noticing Elic, Hermes tossed his lyre aside and sat up, allowing his massive white wings to unfold behind him. He quietly hopped from the cloud and stalked toward Elic. Hermes unwound the white cotton cowl that hid most of his face, to reveal ear length red wavy hair and bright green eyes with flecks of gold. He had a strong firm jaw line and his skin had a grey, almost crispy tint. He leaned forward, strands of brilliant red hair falling in his face, and withdrew a parchment from a canister on his side. He unrolled it.<br><br>“Elic, you have officially been selected by the Gods to perform a great service. You are asked to meet the others in the clearing of Redwood Forest,” Hermes paused and rolled the parchment back up, replacing it in his canister. He then stooped and touched the ground. The ground parted and up rose a mechanical device that looked oddly like a three dimensional map. Hermes looked quite pleased with himself and pointed to a place on the map in California. “That is where you’ve been summoned, Elic. You might need these,” Hermes placed a pair of winged boots before Elic. “Of course they can’t make you fly like me, but you will be able to run like the wind. Call them a gift, which we thieves don’t do lightly.” He backed away from Elic, flapping his massive wings.<br><br>“You should hurry now, Elic!” Hermes shouted over the loud noise of his wings. He looked upward, crouched, and then with amazing speed he took off into the air. The landscape immediately faded, leaving Elic in a world of darkness.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://planetpenny.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/winged-shoes.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>31-01-2011, 20:34:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Aleka’s Dream</span><br><br>Aleka heard the familiar music before anything came to light in her mind’s eye. Slowly the forest appeared before her. The lush greenery and thriving trees became more and more vivid. Bright sunlight shown down through the tree leaves and played with the shadows on the ground. A cool spring breeze tickled the fur on her body as the music seemed to engulf her. Closer and closer it came.<br><br>Movement caught Aleka’s eye. From tree to tree the piper hopped until he appeared in front of her. Aleka knew this God was Pan from her previous dreams. His long wavy red hair matched the curly mass on his legs, the darkness of his horns matched that of his hooves, and his manhood was protected by nothing but a swatch of green silk.<br><br>Pan matched Aleka on all fours and crawled close to her. He brushed his cheek against her cheek, rubbing gently, as was his usual greeting. His familiar earthy smell surrounded her. He backed up and looked her directly in the eye. The God of few words took a branch in hand and proceeded to etch the familiar map on the ground. He pointed at a particular area this time.<br><br>“Go there, Softlystepping,” came Pan’s lilting voice. “Take this with you,” Pan took his beloved personal syrinx in his hand and hesitated once before giving it to Aleka. “When you play her music, you will mesmerize those around you for a time. Use her wisely.” Pan hesitated before adding, “Please be careful with her.”<br><br>As if feeling the need to put space between he and his choice to give away his syrinx, Pan bounded from the area. The forest faded from view soon after.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://1panflute.com/img/premium23.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>31-01-2011, 20:58:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Zentius's Dream</span><br><br>The dried dirt on the ground was cracked and cold to the touch. The crater was surrounded by gnarled leafless trees that proved a perfect backdrop for the dark clouds that rolled overhead. The area was void of much light as Apollo was not welcome here. This was Nirituae’s domain.<br><br>She stood tall in her black leather pants and the dark purple silk cloth that covered her breasts. She glared at Zentius with hatred seeping from every pore. “Greetings, Half Drow,” Nirituae sneered. “It’s been a long time since I’ve appeared before anyone. So listen up. The Sarians have decided they want these particular mortals vanquished and I’ve nominated you to do so. The mortals are powerful and working with the Olympians to destroy an evil force known as Angnhil. You must not let them succeed,” Nirituae began walking forward as she spoke. “Go integrate yourself among them. Do not let them know your plans and strike at their weakest moment. Meet them here.”<br><br>Nirituae grasped Zentius’s head and a blinding pain, followed by detailed directions to the clearing in Redwood Forest, flooded his mind. Nirituae stepped back, a sated look on her face. Her eyes were at half-mast as she was temporarily on a high from the hatred and hostility she drew from his mind.<br><br>Taking a deep breath, Nirituae refocused on Zentius. “Once you have completed your task, I will tell you where your father is,” she stated nonchalantly, as if this wasn’t the most important thing in the world to him. “Take this with you,” she tossed him a crystal in the shape of a heart. “When you focus upon this, anyone in proximity will have their hearts and minds fill with hostility. They will become enraged. Use it wisely. If they all attack you at once, you will be no good to me.”<br><br>And with that, Zentius’s mind went black.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://image.made-in-china.com/2f0j00WfPtYUpquanZ/Crystal-Heart-With-Facet.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>31-01-2011, 22:47:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Phaedra’s Dream</span><br><br>The lush vividly green forest appeared around Phaedra’s seated being. A happy humming could be heard and around a tree came Persephone’s form. Her body moved lithely and her light blond hair bounced in the wind. Her pastel blue dress flowed freely in her movements. With every step she took, a patch of flowers blossomed under foot. Each time one of her pale hands brushed the thick bark of a tree, a hunk of moss sprouted in its place. Persephone looked over, as if just realizing Phaedra’s presence, a happy smile played on her face.<br><br>“Isn’t it beautiful?” Persephone asked in a dreamy tone. “So much better than those dark stone walls…”<br><br>Persephone shook her head, trying to focus. “I come to you again, Phaedra. We need your help.” Persephone sat down in front of Phaedra, and with a swipe of her arm, the grass before her bent to her will, revealing a map. “Go here, Phaedra. It’s quite beautiful this time of year. You will be told more when you arrive.”<br><br>Persephone rose but bent down and placed a pomegranate in Phaedra’s lap. “The seeds are kind of bitter but consumption of a single seed will keep you full for an entire day. The seeds will replenish after a full day. Use them sparingly, for too much use may get the attention of Hades and I promise you do not want him owning your soul…” Persephone shivered even though the sun was warm on her skin. A few seconds after her solemn words, she vanished.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://www.freshplaza.com/2007/0717/pomegranate.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>01-02-2011, 21:36:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Zilior’s Dream</span><br><br>Resting lightly on a cloud high in the sky, Apollo strummed his lyre languidly. His hair shown like spun gold in the sun, pulled back with a band. His corded muscles rippled with every movement he made. He glanced languidly with sky blue eyes at Zilior, who also rested on a cloud. Apollo’s beauty took Zilior’s breath away and it was difficult not to avert his eyes, though tears threatened.<br><br>Apollo smiled softly and waved a golden tanned hand over the air in front of him. Clouds seemed to form a map slowly, floating together. With the map formed, Apollo sat upright, his hair glistening over his shoulder.<br><br>“Zilior,” his voice seemed to sing from his throat. “You are a travelling man. Well, while travelling, travel here,” Apollo pointed at a place on the map that began glistening as bright as the sun. “Redwood Forest in California.”<br><br>Apollo’s cloud moved closer to Zilior’s cloud and Apollo reached out a hand. He took Zilior’s hand in his own golden flawless one. He smelled of sun rays heating a warm summer’s day. Heat began in Zilior’s hand and travelled up his arm to warm the rest of his body.<br><br>“Zilior, I give you the gift of the sun,” Apollo stated. “Fire lies in the palm of your hand.”<br><br>Zilior could see a bright light of the sun appear over Apollo’s shoulder. The light got brighter and brighter until Zilior could see nothing but white. And the Apollo was gone, his handsome smiling face lingering in Zilior’s mind.<br></strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://files.myopera.com/cjm5130/albums/469216/Fire%20Plasmid_low_res.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>01-02-2011, 23:32:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Gerik’s Dream<br></span><br>Gerik could feel the familiar lull of the waves before anything ever came into his vision. He opened his eyes to find that he was floating weightlessly on top of the water. Looking about, he found he couldn’t see anything for miles and miles except the vast ocean and prevalent fog.<br><br>Out of the corner of his eye, Gerik caught movement. Turning to look, he found a pool of bubbles beginning from deep under the water. Slowly the bubbling got heavier and heavier until a huge whirlpool had formed in front of him. Out from this whirlpool formed a gigantic man, older in age, but very powerful. His flowing white beard and hair framed a weary face with sea green eyes. Poseidon wore nothing from the waist up and his waist down was covered by the water. Sea green eyes bore into Gerik as a loud booming voice rumbled from the God’s chest.<br><br>“Gerik,” formed the resonance. “The Gods need your help, Man. The world needs your help. My brother will further inform you of your task, but you must now hurry to Redwood Forest,” Poseidon raised his mighty trident and touched the tip to the water in between he and Gerik. Sea foam formed a map of the world and the path which Gerik may take by sea to the port in California closest to Redwood Forest. Then, in a slow fluid motion, Poseidon pricked the skin above Gerik’s heart with his trident and a cool sensation flooded him.<br><br>“I give you my power over the seas,” Poseidon stated. “As long as you carry your trident, you will be able to command the patch of ocean in your vicinity. Use this power wisely as it affects more than just a small area, but the area around you and your mates as well.”<br><br>Once Poseidon had finished speaking, he raised his trident and slowly sunk once more below the sea.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://i1098.photobucket.com/albums/g369/Paedenn/trident.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>01-02-2011, 23:59:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Arya’s Dream</span><br><br>Arya found herself placed in a field of soft flowers this time, interspersed with myrtles. She looked up to see Aphrodite approaching her. Aphrodite’s incredibly long hair billowed around her perfectly naked form. It was reminiscent of spun gold and the sun played off of it with her movement. Her eyes were a darker blue and filled with lust and her eyelids rode at a satisfied half-mast.<br><br>As she drew near, Arya could smell the distinct smell of sex and pomegranate. The sight of Aphrodite was enough to make one weep, but as she reached out and caressed Arya’s face with a delicate pale hand, Arya did weep. And Aphrodite leaned over and kissed the tears away with soft plump lips of virginal pink.<br><br>Taking a step back, Aphrodite waved a hand and a pair of doves fluttered down in front of her. In their beaks carried each a corner of a cloth map. On the map, there was a line drawing the course in which Arya must take.<br><br>Looking up from the map, Arya saw Aphrodite’s arm extended, offering a dainty pearl necklace that was dangling from her hand. Taking the necklace, Arya was mesmerized by the luminescence and utter beauty of this simple string of beads. She looked up and Aphrodite opened her mouth as if to speak and Arya shuttered in terror. To hear the beauty in her voice, could possibly make the love in Arya’s heart literally burst. Aphrodite thought better of such and merely covered her heart. The meaning was clear, though. Whenever Arya wore this particular necklace, others would be helpless to her beauty and would do anything to gain her love, or her bed.<br><br>Arya looked back to the necklace but, this time, when she looked up, Aphrodite was gone. A sob escaped her throat moments before the landscape was gone as well and she was left in darkness.<br></strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://www.meridiandiamond.com/new%20images/pearl_necklace.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nooblet</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 00:36:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp; Gerik stood on the railing at the helm of the ship. He was grinning like a madman as waves crashed upon the ship, spraying Gerik with foam and salt-water. The blackened sky roared in fury, lightning crackling along the length of the sky. The rain pelted down upon the ship, the wind whipping it into Gerik's face. Gerik laughed as lightning arced once more accross the sky, causing another boom of thunder. The waves rolled and tossed the ship perilously, nearly threatening to flip it, yet Gerik had no fear. He knew Poseidon protected him, and the ship, from the force of the storm. Gerik extended his arms with another laugh as the wind howled around him, driving the rain with stinging force. <br>&nbsp; This went on for hours before the sky's fury finally ebbed. Gerik stepped down from the railing, still grinning. He always loved seeing the sea combat the sky, seeing which one could show more ferocity. Now he walked back to join his fellows who hid below the deck, trying to gain a few hours of sleep while they could. Gerik recieved a few stares as he descended the steps into the hold where he and his fellows bunked. They always thought him a madman when he opted to stand on the railing of the ship during massive storms, and today was no different.<br>&nbsp; Ignoring the stares, Gerik went straight to his cot and lay down, content. As he quickly slipped into the sweet embrace of the dream world he was visited by Poseidon. After the dream Gerik sat up with a start.<br>&nbsp; "Redwood Forest? I shall do as I am commanded," the last was meant for his deity. <br>&nbsp; Gerik stood, noticing that he had been asleep for hours, elbiet it had only felt like minutes. He moved silently up onto the deck, making for the captain. As he walked he mulled over the dream.<br>&nbsp; 'Control the sea? Tis a glorious gift, one I am not sure I deserve. However, it is a gift none the less. Now...how do I use it?' he contemplated.<br>&nbsp; He made his way to the captain at the wheel of the ship. Once there he informed the captain that he needed to get to Redwood Forest in California. Gerik explained he had been visited by Poseidon, and that this was urgent, needing the utmost of haste. THe captain stared at Gerik for minutes, simply looking into his eyes.<br>&nbsp; "Aye then, I believe ye' lad. To Redwood we go," the captain finally nodded.<br>&nbsp; "Thank you captain," Gerik beemed happily, glad his captain trusted him so.<br>&nbsp; The Sea's Wrath changed course immediately, now heading for California with all the haste the men could muster.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 00:46:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				((Holy mother of God that was quite awesome lol.))<br><br><strong>Chicago, Illinois.&nbsp; In Aphrodite's Temple in the center of town.&nbsp; Early morning.</strong><br><br>Arya woke up with a start, covered in soft sheets, laying in a gorgeous and sensually pleasing four poster bed designed to maximize comfort in all that laid within, much like Aphrodite herself in a way.&nbsp; The priestess felt tears from her eyes still, and she was covered in a light layer of sweat from how powerful that vision had been.&nbsp; Sure, her goddess had visited her before, but it usually ended up with them tangled up in each other's arms after quite an intoxicating session of wild and passionate sex.&nbsp; Now, she was being asked to go to Redwood Forests in Colorado.&nbsp; Arya put a hand to her breast and gasped when she heard something clinking in her hands, only now noticing that the pearl necklace in her dream was in her hand.&nbsp; What was the human expression, no way in hell this is real?&nbsp; That's what Arya was feeling as she looked at the beautiful necklace in her hand, holding it in the dying candle light that flickered all around her room.&nbsp; She could scarcely believe her sea green eyes that were as deep as a pool of clear water.<br><br>Slowly slipping out of the covers, Arya stretched mightily and groaned softly, looking to the woman that was still in her bed.&nbsp; Last night had been quite enjoyable for them both, and considering she was a regular here with a lot of money she donated freely, Arya had been more than ready to please this Seeker in this holy place.&nbsp; She had far more important things to worry about though as she gathered her few personal belongings, and secured the pearl necklace in her bag of holding she kept on her belt at all times.&nbsp; It was tied in such a way that it would be impossible for it to be cut from her person without Arya knowing about it, a string wrapped around her hand that would be pulled when and if it was ever picked from her person.&nbsp; Shrugging on a black lacy affair that shimmered with every step, the elven priestess tied her silver long hair into a tight ponytail before slinging her bag over her back and leaving a note behind for the high priestess to find later.&nbsp; She had a ride to catch.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 00:49:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Akri’s Dream</span><br><br>Whimpers, moans, and the occasional blood curdling scream was heard in the pitch blackness before vision was granted. Akri found himself standing on a sea of entangled writhing bodies. No matter where he stepped, he would always have a body underfoot. The piercing headache blurred his vision, adding to the surreality.<br><br>Out of the darkness stepped a lithe body wrapped fully in large black feathered wings and spiked heels. In jerky movements, she walked toward Akri, head down and long black hair covering her face. As she walked, her wings began to unfurl, revealing her pale nude body, covered in long ribbons of blood where she had recently taken her own whip to herself.<br><br>Positioned directly in front of Akri, her head raised in jerky movements to reveal a tear stained face and black pupils. Her soulless eyes were filled with sorrow, which quickly changed to menace. Her head tilted to the side as she leaned in toward him.<br><br>“Akribos!” Turael’s voice sounded like nails on a chalkboard. “Another mission has been promised Vakortur. Mortals must not be allowed to live. Angnhil will be ours,” came Turael’s demand, cryptic as usual.<br><br>Bending down, she grabbed a male by his hair and hoisted him from the ground in her jerky movements. She turned him to face away and withdrew a dagger, quickly plunging into the male’s back. In moments she had carved a map into his back. She pointed with a long black nail, jabbing it into the man’s back.<br><br>“Here,” her voice creaked. “Go. And disguise yourself,” she reached up and tore the golden rings from his scar that she’d given him. Sorrow returned to her eyes and she stroked the bleeding flayed cheek.<br><br>“My Akribos,” Turael leaned in, whispering in his ear. She smelled overpoweringly of blood. She pushed him away as she stepped back in her jerky movements, spiked heels piercing the flesh of those below foot. She held out a cat-o-nine and Akri grasped it in hand.<br><br>“Laced with poison, my Love,” Turael cooed. “Let them lead you to Angnhil, then create precious suffering with it before killing them, Akribos.” Seriousness clouded her eyes. She allowed her wings to fold back around her, the dream fading as she did so. Akribos was left once again in pitch black.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://www.snakepitleatherworks.com/cats/ost1-thumb1.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 01:48:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Antheia’s Dream</span><br><br>Antheia found herself standing in a dark room lit only by the large forge in the center of the room. The smell of molten adamantine filled her nose and the clank of metal being hammered by metal was like music to her ears. She followed the sound around to the other side of the forge to see Hephaestus hammering away. A closer look revealed that it was another hammer. Curious, Antheia moved closer.<br><br>Her movements alerted Hephaestus to her presence and he looked up from his work. The broad smile that covered his tanned, slightly greyed, sweaty face warmed Antheia’s heart. He was so lonely here by himself, she could tell. The past few nights he seemed so grateful for her company.<br><br>Hephaestus set his tools down and smoothed his hands through his bright fiery orange hair. He limped slowly over to Antheia and pointed to a soot covered map on the wall that she hadn’t seen before.<br><br>“Antheia,” his voice was deep and rumbly from breathing in the fumes of the forge for so many millions of years. “I need you,” his voice cracked and he cleared his throat. “I need you to follow this path, Antheia. Find the clearing in Redwood Forest. A great task will be presented you by my father.” Hephaestus’s hand left the map and reached toward Antheia’s face, almost as if he wanted to caress her cheek. But uncertainty clouded his eyes and he dropped his hand. He looked down at his feeble legs in their golden bracers and turned, limping back to his stone forging table.<br><br>He picked up the product of his hard work and held it out to Antheia. She walked over and took it from him. It was an exact replica of the hammer he now held in his hands, except smaller, fit for the hands of a woman. She looked up at Hephaestus, confused. He nodded to her.<br><br>“It is for you, Antheia,” Hephaestus grumbled. “A replica of my own. Projects will still take as long, but you will be able to make everything with exact precision. Now please go. I have much work to do.”<br><br>With that, Hephaestus began hammering away on another piece of work and the scene faded from Antheia’s sight.<br></strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AngelsDemonsCode</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 10:46:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em><strong>Island of Crete, Antheia (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4202624#msg4202624) awakening to a sunny morning after her dream.</strong></em><br><hr><hr><div class="floatleft">(http://www.randalldsmith.com/my_weblog/images/2008/08/05/crete1.jpg)</div> The warm sun on her exposed skin was the first thing Antheia noticed upon her return to the real world. The heat and warmth caressed her skin, in a way Hephaestus must have wanted to do when he reached out for her in her dream. Her dream... she frowned, realizing that she'll have to get going soon. Though some would doubt what had happened to them, the God had called her enough times that she could trust the message he had sent to her.<br><br>She looked around, assessing where she was. Her face was lying against something, her long hair covering her face and she pulled the strands away to see what her face was lying against. There were some documents and prints next to her, parchments that have either been used or not used yet. A length of charcoal lay nearby, all but worn down to the stub from being used so much and some bread that had been blackened from its use as an eraser.<br><br>Looking down at her hands, she saw her fingers were coated in the fine black dust and it clicked now. Of course, she thought. She had fallen asleep on her table, most likely last night, where she had been working on some schematics. <br><br>Schematics... schematics for... she picked up a piece of parchment and stared at the writings and drawings on it, making out some of the details. Everything looked upside down and... ah. It made sense to her now. She flipped it around and actually saw that it was for a shield.<br><br>The shield she was planning to make could deflect and reflect harm if something made contact with it. It was late at night, she was sure of it now as the memory of stars out her window came to mind, and she had been working on this project for the past few days and nights without taking a time to pause or rest. No wonder she fell asleep, she mused as she pulled her hair back and looked for her circlet (http://www.ingasbo.com/images/vines_simple_cropped.jpg).<br><br>Finding it nearby, nestled under some parchments, she put it on her head and tied her hair back with the piece of cloth she always wore around her wrist. She pulled herself up to a seating position on the stool she was in, stretching her limbs lazily to awaken herself even further. Antheia looked outside the window of her shop/home that was beside her and noticed the beautiful stretch of beach that lay before it. The clear seawater sparkled in the bright sunlight as people swam or walked on the shore. The beauty sometimes inspired her ideas but for some reason it wasn't now. Something was distracting her. It was a heavy but comfortable weight on her... lap?<br><br>Looking down, she noticed there was something on her lap. It was a hammer to be percise. Magnificently made with the sternest of steel and iron and plated with gold. It was the gift Hephaestus had given to her in her dream. She picked it up and turned it over, noting it was made for forgery like Hephaestus promised. No doubt it will strike with precision like he said a well. Wanting to try it out, she stood up and walked to the forgery room. Before she wants to where he wanted her to go, Redwood Forest, she needed to test this out. It had to be something that was almost completed, so it would not take time from her journeys.<br><br>The clasp was almost ready. The one she had been making for some time, as she hoped it would allow her to become invisible when it was fastened on her cloak. That could be a good test for the hammer.<br><br><hr><br><div class="floatright">(http://www.blackpowdermag.com/gallery/connors-prairie-2006/Forge-01.jpg)</div>The forgery was furnished well enough. The stove, prepped earlier in the night to make some swords, was now blazing a healthy glow. Ready for any work she had for it. Going to get the heavy leather apron that was set by, she placed it over her form and tied it to make sure any stray sparks did not hit her and placed on her a pair of thick heavy gloves as well. Antheia then picked up the mass of iron and steel and gold that was the clasp. It was settled down on the surface of a small clay table where she kept all her tools, said table located near the stove for easy reach.<br><br>Work began and the sparks flew as the hammer struck it again and again. Though the blinding light and the heat made it hard for her to see her work being done, she could see and feel the hammer hit where she wanted it to hit every time. The aim was true and the work was easy thanks to it since she a few times her eyes had to be closed thanks to the smoke. Her body, thought used to the work but not built for it, felt heavy and aching as she continued to hammer and bend the malleable materials. Sweat ran down her skin, making her feel sticky and exhausted but she kept going. It was almost done and she was hoping and praying to the God that this will work.<br><br>An hour or so passed until it was done. The clasp (http://www.irlbrl.com/andrea/blog/uploaded_images/Shikon_clasp2-770334.jpg) glowed from the heat, a little sun in its own right as Antheia pulled it out with her trusty tongs and took some time to admire it.<br><br>She carefully eased the newly made clasp into a bucket of cold water to let it cool, the steam rising out quickly as it could as heat and cold met one another. She left it there to clean up the mess she had made on the stove, removing some of the ashes but stopped when she saw the hammer. It lay on the clay table with the rest of her tools, glowing and just out of the flames. It was spotless and, out of curiosity, she quickly poked it after pulling off one of the gloves. Stupid to do, yes, but there was something that made her think, "Hmmm..." <br><br>The hammer’s surface, though there was a glowing soft orange hue from the extreme heat, did not harm her when she carefully poked it. There was heat of course but not enough to singe or skin or make her cry out. She took note of that and quickly got back to work in cleaning her station, believing in neatness as well as success. When she was done cleaning it, she went to the bucket and peeked in to see how the clasp was doing. There was no more steam raising from the bucket but it still glowed and that made her frown. It was glowing still? That can't be right.<br><br>Quickly pulling it out with her tongs, she saw that it had cooled when she pressed a gloved finger to it to feel the temperature. The blended metals, giving the clasp a rosy gold look, was somehow still glowing with some sort of ominous power. Her heart thudded when she thought of her fire pendant, the very one she wore around her neck right now. It too glowed with the exact same light and so did that sword she gave to that traveling man once when he explained it was for an upcoming war and he needed it within a few days. <br><br>It was her will. <br><br>She had put her will into the item. But... did that mean the item would be used as she hoped it would be? That if she put it on her cloak and fastened it, it would grant her invisibility? The idea of finally inserting her will into her creations after not doing for over the past two years was tantalizing, as it now opened limitless possibilities to her once again. Swords that sliced through anything, shields that never broke... It would take effort to do these all but that was point of this odd abilities of hers. Though she desperately wanted to try it now, to see if this wild theory of hers was correct, she had to no leave for her travels. Redwood Forest was quite far from where she lived and may take a while to get there.<br><br>Taking off the gloves and apron, she went out of the forgery with clasp in one hand and the hammer in the other hand. She was getting her small traveler's sack to place some vitals items, not wanting to waste another second in her God's orders now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Xilian</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 13:25:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Very nice post Angel! ;D)<br><br>Zilior stood before an old window. Dust and even mold were covering the window, leaving a stale sent.<br>He got used to the sent, since this was the second day he was staying at this inn. The rooms were very cheap and the innkeeper was a nice old man. He lived from the money from the few travelers who crossed his inn.<br>Yesterday evening, the man had told him stories about how great his inn used to be when he was young. How he had to send people out of his inn because all of the rooms were full. His wife - who died a few years ago - used to dance and sing to entertain the customers. He kept going on about how beautiful she was the entire evening.<br>Even though the man was very enthusiastic in his tellings, Zilior couldn't focus on what he was saying. he kept thinking about his dream. Had Apollo really appeared before him? How could he know for sure? <br>Then he remembered. Apollo said something about 'The fire lies in your hand'. Did he literally mean what he said? That kept him busy, not only during his conversation with the innkeeper, but also while he tried to get some sleep last night. It has been 4 days now since he received his dream.<br>Even though Zilior wasn't sure whether or not Apollo had really appeared in front of him, he had already decided to do what he asked of him in his dream. He would certainly travel to Redwood Forest.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 16:33:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702)</div>The sound of the cold wind whistling through the leafless trees is the first thing Feldor hears after awakening from Athena’s dream. The second sound is the deep rumbling purr of Seiceron his white tiger companion. Feldor opens his eyes to see the first morning light peeking through the shudders on the window of the room he has been staying in. His thoughts drift back to the dream he just. This one finally sticking with upon waking, all previous dreams of Athena and the map became the vaguely remember images that dreams usually are. This one is vivid as if it were a waking memory and the map is especially clear, but there are no names and it is of some distant land he has never been to before. Before rising from the bed he breaths a silent prayer, “<em>Lady Athena, your great wisdom many times surpasses my mortal comprehension. I am sorry I truly do not wish to fail you, but without knowing where this forest is with this clearing I am at a loss as to how to get there as you request. I will however do everything in my power to get there as quickly as I can.</em>”<br><br>Rolling over Feldor lets hand dangle off the bed reaching for Seiceron to scratch him behind the ears as is their morning ritual. He is surprised to have his hand find the thick curse fur much sooner than before. Thinking that maybe the great cat had raised his head Feldor still goes to scratch but soon realizes that ears are larger and further apart. He looks down to see that once large cat is now massive. His next thought is of his arrows and Athena’s promise. Looking at his quiver where it is leaning against the wall he switches to his mage sight and see the arrows glowing brightly to his ability to see magic. Switching back to normal vision the arrows simply look like finely crafted weapons.<br><br>Feldor dresses quickly and goes down to the common room for his breakfast. After finishing his meal he and Seiceron head out into the wilderness around International Falls Minnesota. The snow here is still deep and crisp their breath making clouds about their heads briefly in cold northern air. Using his mage sight he locates a leyline of magical energies of the world. Grounding and center his own energies and mind, he mental reaches out tapping into the line. Using primarily spirit and air he beings to cast his vision high into the sky looking down at the planet. He moves his focus up until he can see the entire continent. Seeing something that resembles the map he tightens his focus into the area until he finally finds the clearing in a forest of redwoods in California.<br><br>Closing his eyes Feldor releases the magic, and when he opens them he is once looking through normal eyes at the cold northern wilderness. Placing his hand idly between Seiceron’s ears he says, “Well my friend it looks like we have a bit of journey ahead of us.” Seiceron huffs and rubs his massive head against Feldor affectionately. “You seem pleased with Athena’s gift. Whatever she is asking of us must be dangerous if she thinks you needed to be so much larger.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>KaiiVii</strong> on <strong>02-02-2011, 22:13:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Aleka awoke slowly to the sounds of the forest around her. The sun warming her fur and the birds singing around her brought a smile to her lips as she thought of the dream message from her god. She had been visited by Pan before but never had his message been this clear. Slowly she stretched out her arms and legs before climbing down from the branch she had slept on that night. As she did so, however, she felt the Gift she had been given was still in her hand. Studying it for a moment before placing it gently in her pack Aleka was in awe that she was chosen to do her god's will in the world. The feline girl would have to do her best, cross on ocean even to get to this place that He had showed her. <br><br>Perhaps there was a simple answer though, after all. She had been working the past few days on a special set of drums for a Mage who needed a gift for the woman he was courting. Perhaps instead of the payment she had requested at the start he could set her up a portal to the continent she needed to be on. Well it would be worth a shot. <br><br>Slowly she worked her way over to the tree were she stored her less... necessary items like the clothing that she needed now. Without a second thought she gathered everything else she had stored there to sell in the city. She may never come back here, and travel would be easier without it. Once she was dressed and her muscles warmed up she started the long jog into the large city where she made her business. Aleka did not, in fact, know the name of the place nor what her forest was called on the map but she knew she was not where she needed to be. As she passed the familiar sights of her home she mentally bid goodbye to each creature, each tree, each fern and vine she had come to know. Somehow in her heart she knew it would be many years until she saw them again, if she ever did. <br><br>Entering the city was as hectic as ever and Aleka fought her way to the Mage's home as fast as she could. Crowded places like this made her feel very uncomfortable but luckily the man was home so she could conduct her business quickly. Fortune continued to mile on her as the man was agreeable to the new trade she offered. He could not get her much closer than the Entry Point in the city of Washington but even being so far away Aleka knew she could make it if she ran hard, or bartered along the way. With that plan made she went off the sell her other items while the man prepared his part of the deal, neither took long as her products were finely crafted and in great demand. With one last stop to drop off a letter for her family Aleka headed back and to the portal that would take her to America.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>03-02-2011, 05:02:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arrangements had been slow to commence, strangely enough since Arya had been expecting to be treated quite well given her reputation as a priestess and all.&nbsp; Instead, she had had to actually work at getting things going, but she wasn't worried since her magically enchanted carriage she had procured was now ready to go.&nbsp; The horses were outfitted with shoes that would speed their way considerably without tiring the steeds themselves beyond their stamina or endurance.&nbsp; The six member team attached to the ornately decorated carriage were all well trained beasts of burden, and Arya gently patted their heads as she passed by, her driver admiring more than the scenery if she had to guess since his eyes couldn't leave her figure without undressing her mentally.<br><br>It didn't bother the priestess though, and in a way she welcomed it as she climbed aboard and shut the door.&nbsp; "When you're ready my friend."&nbsp; The human blushed and quickly turned to the road ahead of them, giving the horses a push onward towards their ultimate destination.&nbsp; It would be a long trip, made longer if their ride was destroyed along the way by passing orc or goblin bands or other roving monsters, but again Arya wasn't concerned as she pulled the necklace from her bag of holding, admiring the way the thing shone and caught the light of the rising sun.&nbsp; Aphrodite had trusted her with this Gift, and she'd be sure to not abuse it, but she did want to test it.&nbsp; For now she resisted though, and put it away.&nbsp; The first inn they reached and stopped at for the night though would be the time she put it on to see how well it worked.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>03-02-2011, 07:39:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tossing on the floor of the temple grounds where the guards could sleep and the poor Akribos awoke with a jerk of his head as he breathed calmly even though he did awake so suddenly. Reaching up to his face with his large hand he felt the three rings that really did look as though they held the large scar together on his face. Sighing he remembered the dream, the goddess was always the type for dramatics. Looking at his side he picked up the black cat-o-nines as it had sharpened metal ends on it coated with the poison the sadistic goddess had created. He was an exception for most who was visited&nbsp; now a days cause he was the oldest being on earth. A human at the times of the old Titans and a loyal temple guardian to Menoitios and then the last of his kind embodied with more power than any human, he laid in wait, gaining strength as he aged and then turned to Turael to grant him immortality till the day came to kill the bastard Zeus. The arrogant brat was needing to be cut down a notch, starting with his groin. <br><br>Sighing as he waited for the answer to clear in his head Akribos stood up slowly and looked over his things. He lived in the alleyways and slums of this world, but not needing to eat or drink had that advantage. He rarely did anything but drink from the gifts of Turael which kept him alive everyday of the last hundred million years. Gritting his teeth he adjusted his clothes and began to dress from his completely nude form he slept in. He looked at the others around the temple who were homeless and smirked at their sorrow, don't worry fools it is almost over for you. Grabbing his sling for his shield that he had made to make himself look not completely out of place in the modern world, though he wore leather pants and heavy leather boots, and topped with no shirt showing his scared and very well defined torso, most of them weren't from the gods, but the one on his face was. He kept on a beanie and an Arab DishDash, over his face. His spear head was tucked away under his shield and his spear by his side was a long unbreakable staff that he used like a walking cane in public. It was odd, feeling like you should have died, but knowing you won't for the promise you made before anything here was destroyed a few times over. <br><br>Brushing himself off he pulled on his large cloak to put over his shoulders as he walked, looking like an odd large man who fell on far to many hard lucks and now seemed like a wandering husk with nothing inside. Wandering out towards the streets of the large town he was in he walked towards his location of his target. Angnhil, he hadn't heard that name in a time beyond long. Groaning as he stretched and cracked his back walking towards the regular folks, that didn't know they were seeing the oldest living thing of this earth. Though human's being the shortest lived species on the earth sort of does that to the other races. The temple was an old broken down one that no one ever used so they turned it into a place for the homeless, he enjoyed the company of the damned as the culture saw it. The cloudy skies raise above him as he headed south towards the harbor of Cork, Ireland. America was the place. <br><br>He had heard the American culture were much different from the fishing city of Cork, but he doubted that they were much different than the usual as he boarded the boats and watched the crew load up for the trip. He towered over most of the groups here, and most all the humans, but what was most deceptive was how he hid his face from the world, and kept his armor, blessed by a being older than the Olympians themselves,&nbsp; and unbreakable by mortal weapons, and the Cat-O-Nines on his hip now was even more strange for a man as large as he, but he rarely let the gifts of the gods go to waste. <br><br>Carrying a large ruck sack had his helmet, a gift from Turael to hid his scar, and was formed to hold his rings on his head in place so they wouldn't rip while he fought in it. Remaining mostly human, Akribos could heal in hours what would take weeks or months for the average human, he rarely was cut and never aged with the power of training for millions of year, he could out fight in single combat most anything. Inside the ruck sack was also a large arm plate armor which was jet black and given to him by the old titan whom he worship in his mortal years. <br><br>The boats pulled away now, the harbor becoming small as his journey began towards the world across the water, and full of Olympian servants, he couldn't wait to face real opponents again. It had been far too long that he had remained dormant under Turael's request, since she knew that he would do as she asked, if she asked. If she demanded, often times it was when Akribos fought the most to barter. Which having millions of years worth of torment under his belt, she gave him some room as far as his service, but he submitted himself willingly to her insanity and dark wants of the being she had collared. He shuddered slightly at how brutal the woman enjoyed her sexual wants in his dreams. Gritting his teeth he went below deck and began to assemble his weapons and armor on his body, using the large cloth over his shoulders as cover to hide them, but for now he was on his knees praying. “Turael, I have heard you cries and seen your signs, I shall journey to the Americas as requested with the hope that you will guide my suffering to my enemies and bring them with fury so that I may cut them from their mortal existence.”<br><br>Bowing his head he spoke one last time before he began exercising in his small bunk room, getting his blood flowing. His toned body adjusting to having his armor on once again, his eyes low as he spoke to himself softly, his own mantra while he pushed himself to get used to wearing the heavy armor again. Standing he put his spear together and put it next to the door on the wall along with his large shield. His arms were ready and now his armor was. Sweet glorious battle was coming from across the ocean. He couldn't wait to meet the faces of the soon to be dead. “Thank you Turael, guide me on this trip, my dreams and my body are yours to enjoy.” With that he laid down to sleep and rest up for the journey, his armor still on while he slept and his sword next to him on the bed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>04-02-2011, 09:14:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Zentius Yerodin (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199711#msg4199711)</div>Zentius sets bloat upright instantly awake, from a deep sleep the blinding pain just barely starting to subside. Even with the pain a hate filled smile spreads across his face he whispers, “Father, I will finally find you.” He rises from the bed ignoring the sleeping prostitute there. As he stands something falls from the bed to land with a loud clunk on the floor. Looking down he sees the heart shaped crystal that Nirituae had given him in his dream.<br><br>When he stands back up the woman in his bed rolls over and asks sleepily, “Whatca doing lover?”<br><br>Turning to look at her Zentius activates his active infrared vision causing his eyes to glow a demonic red clearly visible in the dark room. He commands, “Get out!”<br><br>“What?”<br><br>“I said, ‘Get out!’”<br><br>“Get out? It’s the middle of the night, where am I supposed to go? It’s not safe out there.”<br><br>“It’s not safe in here. You’ve got your payment, no you need to go. I don’t care where. Just go.”<br><br>She crawls across the bed and places a hand on Zentius’ bare chest. “Come back to bed, Lover. You can tie me up. You paid for the whole night, there is still a lot of fun we can have.”<br><br>Looking down at the delicate hand on his chest Zentius growls with hatred, and reaches up taking hold of the hand. Without any gentleness he twisted it around bending her wrist painfully. Turning his demonic eyes directly to her eyes he exclaims through clenched teeth, “I said GET OUT!” To punctuate the command he activates his cause pain ability. She lets out a scream of pain as every nerve in her body reacts as if it is on fire. He lets go of her hand and releases his power. She jumps off the bed and quickly grabs her clothes from the floor and runs out the door.<br><br>Dressing quickly in his studded leather armor Zentius then puts the crystal heart in a small hidden pouch. After making sure he had all his weapons in place he gathers all his other worldly possessions and tucks them into his bag of holding. He then walks out of the room and down the hall without even glancing back. Stepping out on to streets of Las Vegas even in the hours just before dawn the city is still busy, he throws the hood of his cloak over his head hiding his face from view. After walking several streets over he enters a building full of activity.<br><br>The entrance is dark but loud music can be heard from inside, a large muscular man tries to stop Zentius saying, “It’s five silver to enter.” Looking at the bouncer from under his hood, he simply wills the man to fall asleep. The man just goes limp and slides to the floor as a soft snoring start to come from him. Stepping over the sleeping guard and into the main room, he then stops to scan the interior. The loud music is coming from some unknown magical source and the lighting is a combination of fire in various forms and strange enchanted lights. Ignoring the naked and nearly naked women of many different races dancing on small stages throughout the room, he scans the customers. Finally spotting the one he is searching for, he walks straight up to the table.<br><br>The man setting at the table takes a moment to realize that Zentius had approached his table, looks up saying, “Who are you and what can I do for you?” Without any further invitation Zentius sets across from the man. After a brief pause he slowly pulls back his hood with both hands. When the hood falls back completely off his head he looks up meeting the other man’s gaze. “Zen … Zentius, what do you want?”<br><br>Taking a moment to savor the man’s sudden fear, Zentius slowly lets a cruel smile form on his face before saying, “If I were serving a contract on you, we would not be meeting here in this crowded room. I am here about a contract though. The one you offered me earlier. I have given it some thought and have decided to accept under one condition.”<br><br>“What condition? I wasn’t willing to pay what you asked for before.”<br><br>“I suddenly find myself needing to leave Vegas, what I need from you is a reliable and swift form of transportation that can take me many miles in a short amount of time.”<br><br>The man visibly relaxes with a sigh of relief and says, “That’s all you want? Okay, I can help you. I have a flying carpet that is very well made and can travel faster than any horse many times over. You bring me the head I want and it’s yours.”<br><br>“Excellent, he will be dead before dawn. Where do you want to make the exchange this morning?”<br><br>“I’ll be at the Prancing Unicorn just after dawn.”<br><br>“With the carpet?”<br><br>“Yes, of course, with the rug.”<br><br>Pulling his hood back up Zentius rises to leave saying, “I will see you again just after sunrise.” He turns and walks out the way he had come in.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 00:04:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sunlight crept over the windowsill of the girl's bedroom window, and before long, Phaedra was woken by its insistent brightness.&nbsp; She stretched her long legs, and the cat asleep on the bottom of the bed, mewed indignantly.&nbsp; "Oh quiet puss!&nbsp; It's time to get up!&nbsp; For a change the sun is shining!"&nbsp; She swung her feet out of bed, and slipped them into soft sandals, grabbing a robe from the bottom of the bed, and wrapping it around her shapely form. <br><br>She went downstairs, with the cat hot on her heels, as she knew there would be food soon.&nbsp; Phaedra lit the fire, and set water to boil, ready to make herself a herb tea, before finding some food for the now insistently meowing cat.&nbsp; When she sat down with her drink, and slice of home made bread and butter for her breakfast,&nbsp; &nbsp;she began to plan her day.&nbsp; She had various jobs to do around the garden, and then later she would go into the forest just to walk through the trees.&nbsp; It was the only thing that kept her sane, removing stress from her mind and body.&nbsp; Her thoughts suddenly brought back last night’s dream, and she shivered as she remembered.&nbsp; She felt that she had to share her dream with someone, and the only person with her at the moment was the cat, so she was the one who heard Phaedra’s remembrances.<br><br>“I had the strangest dream cat, the Goddess came to me, showed me a map and told me to go there, but my problem is I’m not sure where ‘there’ is.&nbsp; She gave me a pomegranate, too, a special one with magical powers, it was wonderful!&nbsp; Shame it was just a dream.”&nbsp; The girl stood, to clear away her pots, and gave a gasp as she noticed a pomegranate, gold and pink, perfectly formed, gleaming on the table in the sunlight.<br><br>She looked around bewildered as if to see who had been in her kitchen, and left the fruit, but of course no one was visible.&nbsp; She murmured softly.&nbsp; “But if it wasn’t a dream?...Does that mean the Goddess really visited me, and needs me for a task?”<br><br>She gazed off into space desperately trying to recall the map that the Goddess had shown to her in the grass.&nbsp; She sighed really exasperated with herself.&nbsp; “How could I be so stupid?”&nbsp; She was near to tears, but stopped herself, and did the only thing she could think to do in the circumstance.&nbsp; “Please Goddess Persephone, hear my prayer, I am your willing servant and will answer your call, but please I didn’t understand where it is I am to go, please could you let me know?”<br><br>She also acted upon her prayer, finding her old Atlas and flipping through the pages to see if anything leapt out at her, but nothing seemed to.&nbsp; She would have to wait until the Goddess answered her prayer, in the meantime she went to get washed and dressed, and began to pack a bag, perhaps if the Persephone saw she was readying herself for a journey, she would return to inform her of her destination<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 00:59:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Over a thousand miles lay between her home town and the Redwood Forests in California, and Arya had managed to clear a hundred and cross into the next state over before having to stop for the night at a small roadside inn that from what passing travelers had said about it, wasn't the place for the weak or unable.&nbsp; Sounded rough and tumble to the priestess, just the way she liked it.&nbsp; Her driver wasn't so sure but a simple nod had the man pulling the six horses and their carriage to the front door of the two level wooden affair.&nbsp; Upon exiting the carriage, Arya's sensitive ears picked up on a barroom fight already taking place, and thought it prudent to grab her whip from underneath her seat, a whip enchanted to not only flay the flesh from those she fought but to also incapacitate them with pleasure unheard of as well.&nbsp; A specialty weapon given to her by the high priestess for her help against a rather troublesome man that didn't know how to take no for an answer since he was known to be abusive to women.&nbsp; No one had wanted to serve him, and so it had come to blows just about, except Arya had gotten the drop on the man before any damage could be dealt.&nbsp; Needless to say, the man had been tied up for some time and used by every single one of the priestesses before he was let go with quite the sore ego....as well as every other inch of him of course.&nbsp; Shaking the pleasurable memory away, Aphrodite's chosen elven maiden casually entered the inn, and when she was noticed nearly everyone stopped what they were doing.&nbsp; "Please, keep on doing what you were doing."&nbsp; She purred in reply, and while the fighting stopped with minimal damage to the place, Arya felt quite aroused as almost every man and some of the serving wenches and other female guests couldn't keep their eyes off of her as she sidled up to the bar.<br><br>Her driver noticed too and felt quite uncomfortable as his charge ordered a simple red wine, laying out a couple of gold coins.&nbsp; The place was lit with simple torches and everything from the tables to the bar were made of oak wood, enchanted or covered in some kind of flame retardant material if she had to guess or this place would have went up long ago most likely.&nbsp; Her elven senses could detect some magical items and gear from a few of the patrons, but none of interested her as she thanked the man behind the bar and casually sipped at her chosen drink.&nbsp; Her bag of holding though kept on drawing her attention, and Arya was curious what her necklace could do as she considered taking it out here, but she didn't since she didn't want to risk losing it to a thief or other such crook that frequented places like this.&nbsp; No, she'd entice someone in this room to her rooms for the night first, and speaking of which, Arya waved the inn keeper over to her side.<br><br>"Excuse me, how much for a room in this fine place?&nbsp; You'd be doing a priestess of Aphrodite's church a great service if you have any room to spare, preferably the more well appointed the better.&nbsp; Money is little object but....if you want I could offer...mmmmm....far more."&nbsp; She locked her eyes with the man, a simple human, and he had trouble finding his voice under her powerful stare.&nbsp; She giggled, leaning in close, giving him quite the show of her bountiful cleavage, and the young man couldn't help but lean in as well, and gasped as she blew a kiss right into his right ear before pulling away, her scent thick in his nose as well.&nbsp; The perfume she wore was specially blended by her hand to cause feelings of arousal and desire in low doses, low enough to make them easier to handle but not to the point that they'd try to hurt her either, and Arya knew it was working here as the man's face turned a bit red and his brown eyes glazed over a little briefly before he found his train of thought again.<br><br>"Second floor, last room down the hall, it's yours."&nbsp; Arya grinned from ear to ear as she took the key that was offered a moment later, and while no payment had been asked for, she did leave twenty gold coins out for the young fellow anyway before having her bags brought up that contained her clothes and toiletries in to the 'VIP Suite' as it was aptly called considering it was covered in silk and satin sheets and very comfortable chairs and a couch done up in black leather.&nbsp; "Thank you Aphrodite for paving the way as you have.&nbsp; Through me your will is my own, although I will admit I so enjoy teasing people."&nbsp; She offered in prayer and thanks to her chosen goddess, settling in before heading downstairs to find someone to warm her bed as well as get some dinner in her belly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 07:52:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Gerik Seaborn (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200726#msg4200726)</div><br>Somewhere in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Gerik was awakened by the loud shouts and yelling of orders by his fellow shipmates. His bunkmate was already up and pulling on clothes. The Sea’s Wrath was swaying heavily, implicative of stormy seas. Still groggy with sleep, Gerik was trying to get his muddled brain wrapped around what was going on. Then he heard it. There was the distinct firing of a canon.<br><br><div align="center">Arya Angelicus (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200851#msg4200851)</div><br>Gideon was inwardly pleased to see the incredibly beautiful priestess reenter the room. He had heard her describe herself as such while at the bar. He saw her sit at one of the tables and strode over to it, carrying his half-drunk glass of wine. He smoothed his short black hair and leveled his dark blue eyes on Arya as he approached. Gods, she was even more beautiful up close and he struggled to appear nonchalant.<br><br>“Is this seat taken?” He denoted the seat across from her. He didn’t wait for a response, but sat down anyway. He made eye contact with the barkeep, pointed at his glass of wine, and indicated that he would like two more glasses of such.<br><br>“So what is your name, beautiful priestess?” He cocked his head, waiting her reply. He had chiseled cheekbones and square jawline that were coated in a dark five o’clock shadow.<br><br><div align="center">Antheia Aiolos (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4202624#msg4202624)</div><br>Outside her forgery, Antheia sees a slight young girl holding her side and wobbling toward her. She has her other hand outstretched and a look of pleading on her face, though no blood can be seen on or around the girl. She seems to have tears in her eyes.<br><br><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>A knock rapped softly on Zilior’s door. The fresh young maiden stood on the other side. She was the innkeeper’s granddaughter. Selena had caught a few glances at Zilior as he’d talked to her grandpapa the previous night. Something about the scruffy man intrigued her. It had been many years since she’d seen her grandpapa’s brown and purple wings beat so fervently. Being faerie folk, it was in their nature to only mate once, and her grandpapa got excited any time he was able to relieve another moment of her grandmama’s existence. Selena wished to thank him for this but all that came out was…<br><br>“W-would you like some lunch, Sir?” Lunch? Selena mentally kicked herself. Her blue and purple wings fluttered nervously and she blushed. If he wanted lunch, the common area was mere feet away! She scolded herself and leaned her head against the door; her long bright blue hair fell around her eyes.<br><br><div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702)</div><br>A tiny seemingly human child with curly black hair pops out from behind the trees. She’s all bundled up in a fur lined leather parka and fur lined leather boots. When she lays eyes on the tiger, her clear blue eyes go wide and she opens her mouth, letting out an ear piercing wail.<br><br>A different woman, appearing in her twenties and wearing virtually the same thing, pops out of the woods at this time. She scoops up the crying child and coos at her, trying to calm her. She looks to where the child is pointing and goes more still than humanly possible. Her eyes begin to glow a bright red. Vampires.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 09:20:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Aleka Softlystepping (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199655#msg4199655)</div><br>As soon as Aleka reaches the other side of the portal, she hears a loud boom, followed shortly thereafter by another boom, then another. The ground around her begins to rattle with each boom, pebbles vibrating on the ground. Aleka looks around her and sees, tromping through the forest, a nine foot tall grey rock giant. His arms were huge and hung almost to the ground as he walked along, his head hung low. He didn’t seem to notice Aleka and was walking toward the lake to her right.<br><br><div align="center">Akribos Talos (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4206400#msg4206400)</div><br>No sooner had Akribos laid down his head, did he hear a commotion from above. Peeking his head out he saw many people, passenger and servant alike, running quickly to the top of the boat. It was then that he realized the boat was no longer moving. He was swept up in the crowd and had little choice, short of fighting, to follow topside. People all around him were leaning over the side of the boat and crooning. <br><br>A sunburnt older human man passed him joyfully, grabbing his hands momentarily, just long enough to say, “Isn’t it amazing? The Gods have most definitely blessed us this evening. Are they not the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen?”<br><br>Confused and intrigued now, Akribos fought his way over to the side of the boat. In the water he could see a few shapes moving. Slowly, fins of all colors came into view, pink, purple, silver, green. Then he realized the fins were connected to human bodies! Merfolk! This was a rare sighting. A female surfaced. She had long purple hair that pooled around her. Two silver shells cupped her small breasts. Colorful coral wound around her hair and colorful algae spotted her body. A dark green fin with a metallic sheen playfully splashed water up at the warrior. She giggled and swam closer, taunting and teasing playfully, flirting with her eyes.<br><br><div align="center">Zentius Yerodin (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199711#msg4199711)</div><br>As Zentius leaves the Prancing Unicorn, two men appear out of nowhere. They appear to be human but are dressed in all black. They slink from the shadows and grab Zentius, dragging him into an unlit alleyway, smelling of vomit and piss. One holds a knife to his throat while the other knees him in the gut.<br><br>“Give us all ya got!” Came a hissed demand.<br><br><div align="center">Phaedra (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199680#msg4199680)</div><br>Once Phaedra was back in her bedroom, she heard a soft tapping on her windowsill. Curious, she walked over and didn’t notice anything at first. Then she noticed a tree that hadn’t been there yesterday. All of a sudden, the tree shook! It trembled, leaves shaking, and then its roots took a step forward. Thought to be a myth, Tree Saplings were the oldest known race in existence. Very very slowly, the Tree Sapling made its way to the window. Impaled on a branch was a piece of parchment paper. A closer look showed that it was a map.<br><br><hr><br><strong>Somewhere deep inside the earth, Angnhil flexed a muscle, consciousness slowly forming.</strong><br><br><hr><br>In the middle of the jungles of Africa, a massive earthquake took its toll. Rating a seven on the richter scale, the earthquake rattled the core of Africa, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 20:05:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222499#msg4222499">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 07:52:25</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><br><div align="center">Arya Angelicus (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200851#msg4200851)</div><br>Gideon was inwardly pleased to see the incredibly beautiful priestess reenter the room. He had heard her describe herself as such while at the bar. He saw her sit at one of the tables and strode over to it, carrying his half-drunk glass of wine. He smoothed his short black hair and leveled his dark blue eyes on Arya as he approached. Gods, she was even more beautiful up close and he struggled to appear nonchalant.<br><br>“Is this seat taken?” He denoted the seat across from her. He didn’t wait for a response, but sat down anyway. He made eye contact with the barkeep, pointed at his glass of wine, and indicated that he would like two more glasses of such.<br><br>“So what is your name, beautiful priestess?” He cocked his head, waiting her reply. He had chiseled cheekbones and square jawline that were coated in a dark five o’clock shadow.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Arya looks up and her sea green eyes light up at the sight of the handsome fellow before her.&nbsp; When he asks if he can take the seat that was empty at her table, she nods and waves him to the chair.&nbsp; When he orders a refill for her as well as one for himself, Arya couldn't help but grin again at how good her day had started and was ending.&nbsp; "Thank you kind sir.&nbsp; My name since you asked with such a kind compliment, is Arya Angelicus.&nbsp; What is yours my handsome fellow?"&nbsp; She asked in turn, wondering what else he would be willing to share before the night was over.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Xilian</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 20:20:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222499#msg4222499">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 07:52:25</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>A knock rapped softly on Zilior’s door. The fresh young maiden stood on the other side. She was the innkeeper’s granddaughter. Selena had caught a few glances at Zilior as he’d talked to her grandpapa the previous night. Something about the scruffy man intrigued her. It had been many years since she’d seen her grandpapa’s brown and purple wings beat so fervently. Being faerie folk, it was in their nature to only mate once, and her grandpapa got excited any time he was able to relieve another moment of her grandmama’s existence. Selena wished to thank him for this but all that came out was…<br><br>“W-would you like some lunch, Sir?” Lunch? Selena mentally kicked herself. Her blue and purple wings fluttered nervously and she blushed. If he wanted lunch, the common area was mere feet away! She scolded herself and leaned her head against the door; her long bright blue hair fell around her eyes.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div>Zilior was sitting on his bed after having packed up his stuff, which wasn't very much, as he heard someone knocking on his door followed by 'W-would you like some lunch, Sir'.<br>He sighed, stood up and opened the door<br>Zilior frowned as he took a look at the young maiden standing on the doorway.<br>Since when was there roomservice in this inn? <br>He shook his head.<br><br>'I was just getting ready to leave actually.' He answered the girl.<br>The faerie softly bit her lip. She obviously had something different to say then just offering him a meal.<br>Zilior noticed her hesitation and lay a hand on her shoulder. 'Thank you for being so nice to me. I might not look like it, but I'm on a very important mission. I have no time to stay any longer.'<br>He grabbed his bag along with his weapons and carried them on his back.<br>'Well see ya.' Zilior said while passing Selena.<br>She wanted to say something but decided not to and just nodded.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 20:51:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222720#msg4222720">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 09:20:51</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><br><div align="center">Akribos Talos (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4206400#msg4206400)</div><br>No sooner had Akribos laid down his head, did he hear a commotion from above. Peeking his head out he saw many people, passenger and servant alike, running quickly to the top of the boat. It was then that he realized the boat was no longer moving. He was swept up in the crowd and had little choice, short of fighting, to follow topside. People all around him were leaning over the side of the boat and crooning. <br><br>A sunburnt older human man passed him joyfully, grabbing his hands momentarily, just long enough to say, “Isn’t it amazing? The Gods have most definitely blessed us this evening. Are they not the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen?”<br><br>Confused and intrigued now, Akribos fought his way over to the side of the boat. In the water he could see a few shapes moving. Slowly, fins of all colors came into view, pink, purple, silver, green. Then he realized the fins were connected to human bodies! Merfolk! This was a rare sighting. A female surfaced. She had long purple hair that pooled around her. Two silver shells cupped her small breasts. Colorful coral wound around her hair and colorful algae spotted her body. A dark green fin with a metallic sheen playfully splashed water up at the warrior. She giggled and swam closer, taunting and teasing playfully, flirting with her eyes. </blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Looking with the other men, more so over them since the rails were crowded Akribos snorted in annoyance as he came out from his state room wearing his armor, yet lacking his shield and spear, wearing his sword on him, which was quite common among the sea travelers, the waters were dangerous at night out here, the God's pets enjoyed the oceans far too much. Glaring at the Merfolk while the rest of the men drooled over the beauties Akribos stared with a sort of bored look in his eyes as he watched the Merfolk female wave and flirt. The people of the sea often where thought of as myths in terms of them no being monsters, Akribos knew long ago about Poseidon's little pets that he had made. Akribos could only think that it was some sort of game he played so he could say he created a better form of mortals. <br><br>Smirking with his face covered by the dishdash he nodded to the female and gave an odd salute to the creature as he put his arm on his shoulder while he leaned on the rail and bowed. The Merfolk giggled as he did so, he was just identifying himself as soldier to the creature, out of respect of its life. Watching it carefully he noticed more, no doubt his very large toned and exposed arms, minus the armor on his left shield arm, was getting him attention. Smirking he shook his head slightly, 'Damn fish want more to do with me than the damn land mortals. Amazing.'<br><br>Watching them swim and mess about Akribos noticed the captain laughing with some of the crew as they watched. Walking over he spoke softly to the man as if he was not wanting to be loud with his conversation. "Captain no offense to your men, but the fish can be seen again, those of us with the need to be on the u.s. soil would like it if the boat kept moving, they will follow, they always love teasing the sailors, but I would appreciate it if you would keep us moving." His thick accent was muffled by the cloth along with his gruff voice.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 22:04:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arya Angelicus (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200851#msg4200851)<br><br>Gideon's eyes seemed to sparkle with lust as he looked the woman over.<br><br>"Gideon is my name," he stated in a rumbling purely masculine voice. "And what, may I ask, is a priestess of Aphrodite doing all the way out here?" Their wine had arrived and Gideon sat back in his chair, smelling, then sipping the fine wine he'd laid before them.<br><br>Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)<br><br>Selena watched sadly as the half elf's back grew smaller in the distance. She'd followed him outside and watched him leave. She sighed heavily. She'd probably never see him again.<br><br>Akribos Talos (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4206400#msg4206400)<br><br>The portly human captain choked on his reply to Akribos. He was without words that the man before him wanted to leave such an amazing sight. He pulled at his grey mustache, eyeing the man for a few moments before nodding his compliance.<br><br>As the boat started back up, there was a collective "Aww!" from the crowd all around. Akribos found himself once more by the railing. The beautiful purple haired mermaid had a confused look on her face but began swimming faster to try and keep up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 22:27:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arya took a sip of the proffered wine without hesitation, loving the taste of the drink but she 'accidentally' let a small amount of the liquid pour down her front, right between her breasts.&nbsp; She knew how to play, and she was actively drawing Gideon in like a fish on a hook.&nbsp; The question was that crossed the naughty priestess's mind was if he could see through her obvious ploy or if he was a simple man driven by his desires and whims.&nbsp; If the former she would have all the more fun with him, but if the latter she wouldn't since she liked a challenge as much as she loved getting frisky in bed with men and women both.&nbsp; Sometimes though she did indulge in easy sex but it usually left a foul taste in her mouth afterward.&nbsp; Putting her cup down, she answered in kind with an obvious purr to her voice as she leaned in a bit to give him a better view if he so wished.<br><br>"Mmmmm....what indeed?&nbsp; What would you do to find out?"&nbsp; She teased, a grin on her face as Arya's eyes lit up again in avid anticipation.&nbsp; She'd take him to her room regardless she decided, but if he proved dominant she'd gladly yield.&nbsp; Otherwise it would be her rodeo, and she'd ride him for all he was worth before letting him even think about getting away from her.&nbsp; Leaning back a moment later, but not before she knew he had gotten a good whiff of her perfume, Arya did answer his question as she considered just what they would do together.&nbsp; "I'm on a bit of a journey for Lady Aphrodite.&nbsp; All I know so far is that I'm supposed to go to Redwood Forest, California.&nbsp; Still, she didn't put a specific date and time I was supposed to arrive, but I'll be leaving first thing in the morning regardless.&nbsp; It's not a good idea to keep her waiting, and neither should you keep me waiting if you plan to do anything before then."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>05-02-2011, 22:30:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Zedd’s Dream</span><br><br>In the middle of a clearing, bathed in pale moonlight and surrounded by Cypress trees, Artemis crouched beside a fawn as it ate an apple from her hand. She stroked the fawn’s snout with delicate pale fingers before straightening. She was surrounded by forest animals of all kinds; bears, squirrels, raccoons, birds, but mostly deer. She looked over at Zedd and smiled softly, smoothing out the soft purple chemise she was wearing. Her chemise was loose fitting and flowed freely about her form as she approached Zedd confidently. Her delicate bare feet almost danced across the ground. Her head held high, the silver crescent moon sparkled in the center of her forehead, connected to the silver corded band that circled her head. Her honey blond hair hung freely about her shoulders and shined in the pale moonlight. She shifted the bow and quiver strapped on her back and breathed in a deep breath of the forest air.<br><br>“Isn’t that smell just delightful?” She asked, joy dancing in her midnight blue eyes. Her eyes narrowed slightly and her lips pursed, “Now I was supposed to tell you something… Oh yes! I’m supposed to tell you to go to some clearing in the Redwood Forest.” She thought for a moment, as if listening to some unseen voice in her head, before crouching and touching the ground. A deer walked up and nuzzled Artemis as a vivid map displayed in front of her. She reached up and absent mindedly stroked the deer before pointing to a place on the map. “There. That is where you must go, Zedd.” She straightened once more and brushed her hair behind her shoulders, a purely innocent stroke. She reached a soft hand to Zedd’s head and cupped his cheek. Her hand moved to position the fleshy part of her palm directly over Zedd’s forehead. She whispered a few words; the scent of the forest mixed with jasmine flowed from her.<br><br>“Now you will be able to see through an animal’s eyes, dear Zedd. Just reach out here,” she indicated his forehead by touching it lightly, “and you can locate any nearby creature. Meld with that creature and see with its eyes.” Artemis closed her own eyes and her mind seemed to drift away for a few moments. Her eyes sprung open and she turned to loose a shot on something unseen in the forest.<br><br>“Be swift, Zedd!” She added before taking off after her forest prey. The forest animals scattered about, leaving Zedd alone in the clearing.<br></strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>KaiiVii</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 00:14:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222720#msg4222720">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 09:20:51</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Aleka Softlystepping (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199655#msg4199655)</div><br>As soon as Aleka reaches the other side of the portal, she hears a loud boom, followed shortly thereafter by another boom, then another. The ground around her begins to rattle with each boom, pebbles vibrating on the ground. Aleka looks around her and sees, tromping through the forest, a nine foot tall grey rock giant. His arms were huge and hung almost to the ground as he walked along, his head hung low. He didn’t seem to notice Aleka and was walking toward the lake to her right.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br><br>Gulping almost audibly Aleka took a few hesitant steps backward, never looking away from the creature. The giant was like nothing she had seen or heard of before and she did not want to make it angry. Her tail twitching in fear she kept inching slowly back until her back hit a tree. The sound of her staff conecting with the wood of the tree made her wince but hoped the animated stone could not hear it, or would not care. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 04:47:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222499#msg4222499">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 07:52:25</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702)</div><br>A tiny seemingly human child with curly black hair pops out from behind the trees. She’s all bundled up in a fur lined leather parka and fur lined leather boots. When she lays eyes on the tiger, her clear blue eyes go wide and she opens her mouth, letting out an ear piercing wail.<br><br>A different woman, appearing in her twenties and wearing virtually the same thing, pops out of the woods at this time. She scoops up the crying child and coos at her, trying to calm her. She looks to where the child is pointing and goes more still than humanly possible. Her eyes begin to glow a bright red. Vampires.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div>Seeing the child Feldor stops in his and motions for Seiceron to do the same, too late however as the child sees the great white tiger and lets out a piercing wail. Remaining as motionless as any living being can be they wait to see if an adult comes at the child’s scream. The wait isn’t long as a woman rushes to comfort the child. When the woman looks their direction he starts to say something to reassure what he presumes to be the mother that there is no danger, but the words catch in his throat as she goes statue like still and her eyes glow red. Knowing he is facing at least one but probably two vampires, he subtly makes sure he can draw his wand quickly and grounds and centers his mind once again.<br><br>Without moving any closer Feldor says, “I am sorry my friend frightened the little one. We mean no harm and simply wish to pass peacefully back into the village.”<br><br>Without taking her glowing eyes off of Seiceron the woman responds, “We are hungry the hunting around here has been very scarce these last few weeks. Is that beast what has depleted the prey in this area? It has a long time since we have tested a tiger and never one to large and full of life.”<br><br>“The reason the prey is scarce is because this has been a harsh winter and the prey has either moved elsewhere looking for food or has starved to death already. You will just have to continue to wait to feast on tiger because he is not on the menu.”<br><br>Her eyes finally turn to the elf. “It has been even longer since I’ve tasted the sweet blood of an elf. Would you risk you life to protect a beast? In many ways I hope you do, then we can feast on your blood as well.”<br><br>Thinking for just a moment Feldor suddenly draws his inch thick wooden wand and points it at the pair of vampires. He utters the command word almost inaudibly and a bubble of force appears around the woman and the small vampire in her arms. He walks up to the bubble while putting the wand away. Placing his hand on the surface of the invisible barrier he says, “I would risk my life for my friend, but it is not necessary today. This bubble I have placed you in is virtually indestructible without powerful magic. It will dissipate in about an hour, which should give us more than enough time to get away from this spot, and you will be free.”<br><br>Motioning for Seiceron to accompany him, Feldora resumes his journey back into the village. He returns to his room at the inn and starts packing all of his belongs away getting ready for their trip to California. Looking at Seiceron he says, “One more night here and we will leave in the morning.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 06:37:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222720#msg4222720">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 09:20:51</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Zentius Yerodin (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199711#msg4199711)</div><br>As Zentius leaves the Prancing Unicorn, two men appear out of nowhere. They appear to be human but are dressed in all black. They slink from the shadows and grab Zentius, dragging him into an unlit alleyway, smelling of vomit and piss. One holds a knife to his throat while the other knees him in the gut.<br><br>“Give us all ya got!” Came a hissed demand.<br><br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>When two men dressed in all black step out of the shadows and grab Zentius he does not put up any kind of struggle. Whatever they want with him he knows that his reaction would be best not seen out on the public street someplace more secluded would be much more to his liking. With a blade pressed to his throat he merely grunts when the knee impacts with his stomach. In response to the demand he hisses, “No, I do not think it will take all that I’ve got.” It only takes a thought for him to cause his flesh to harden like metal making the blade at his throat a meaningless threat. Raising his head slightly to allow the glowing red of his eyes to shine from under his hood, he slowly reaches his hands up and pulls the hood back and off.<br><br>Letting go of his hood his right suddenly flashes out at the throat of the man holding the knife. Before reaching its target the hand transform into a double edged blade. The blade easily slices through the soft flesh of the man’s throat, he then yanks his arm to the side ripping the throat open causing his life’s blood to spray out into the dark alley. Dropping his knife the dying man clamps both hands over his ruined throat as he falls to his knees before collapsing face first on to the alley floor.<br><br>The remaining mugger seeing Zentius’ eyes and appearance and the sudden death of his partner turns to flee. Zentius simply looks over at him and says, “Oh, no. You do not get away that easy.” He raises his left hand gesturing toward the fleeing mugger and using the strength of his mind takes hold of the man’s body. The man comes to a jerky stop and awkwardly turns back around. Zentius steps up closer to the man and looks him over. Seeing that man also has a dagger Zentius gets an evil grin on his face. He makes a flourish with his outstretched hand and in a jerky very ungraceful motion the mugger draws the dagger from its scabbard. Terror fills the man’s eyes as he raises his own blade to his own throat. Through clenched teeth the mugger pleads, “Please, please…we only meant to rob you. Nobody was supposed to get hurt. I don’t deserve to die.”<br><br>Zentius steps even closer staring into the thief’s terror filled eyes. “You should have used better judgment in choosing your target than. I am nobody’s victim and anybody who tries must pay the price and my price is death.” He steps back and waves his hand and the blade slashes across the mugger’s throat slicing it deeply causing his blood fountain in huge spurts out into the night. His body starts to go slack but remains standing. Zentius watches as the blood flow slows to a trickle and the light leaves the man’s eyes, he then drops his hand and the body just crumples to the ground.<br><br>Turning his back to the grisly seen Zentius reaches up with both very normal looking hands and returns the hood of his cloak back to cover his head and hide his face. Walking back out to the street he turns away from the Prancing Unicorn and strides off into the darkness.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightBlade</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 08:39:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elic stood by his wooden home, He looked out at forest he called a home. As he lifted his head to smell the scent of the morning air he smiled to himself. He walked through the woods taking in all the sights that he has seen many a time. He threw back a bag of gold that he took off a guard the day before and thought of how he would spend it. As he traveled through the foliage of the woods he wondered to himself if being a thief could have any more benefits.<br>Through the day of wondering he grew tired. He traveled back to his little grassy area, so he could rest. <br>Once he awoke from his dream he looked around. Thats when he noticed the whitish boots landing atop a map. He grinned to himself as he picked up the boots. He hurried and replaced his worn out rugged boots with the boots he was granted by his deity. <br>"a gift from a thief, I would of never saw that coming" he mused to himself. He took off in a sprint, he smiled as he felt the breeze of the wind glide along his body. He always enjoyed the breeze but now it was more intense as he felt like he could run faster than ever.<br>"to Redwood, I guess thats were I should go" he sprinted off
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nooblet</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 08:55:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222499#msg4222499">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 07:52:25</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Gerik Seaborn (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200726#msg4200726)</div><br>Somewhere in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Gerik was awakened by the loud shouts and yelling of orders by his fellow shipmates. His bunkmate was already up and pulling on clothes. The Sea’s Wrath was swaying heavily, implicative of stormy seas. Still groggy with sleep, Gerik was trying to get his muddled brain wrapped around what was going on. Then he heard it. There was the distinct firing of a canon.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>&nbsp; Gerik jerked awake as the noise rushed to meet him. Even in his sleep addled state he recognized the boom of cannon fire, and felt the ship rock with the force. Reacting quickly, Gerik leapt out of his bunk and slipped on a simple pair of breeches, buckling on his sword belt. Gerik rushed out, grabbing his trident, not bothering to take the time to dress any farther.<br>&nbsp; 'How could they sneak up on us? We should've been called to battle stations the minute they came into sight,' he mused silently.<br>&nbsp; His question was answered as he reached the deck, running into a thick wall of fog. The deck was chaotic as men raced to and fro, trying to get stock of who was attacking. The ring of steel on steel, and the screams of men injured or dieing came groggily though the fog. Gerik raced swiftly towards the sound, realizing the Sea's Wrath was being boarded on the port side.<br>&nbsp; As Gerik reached the battle he couldnt recognize the attackers, figuring them for simple pirates making use of the fog. Wasting no time Gerik lept into the fray, swinging his trident in large arcs, knocking away three of the pirates, each with their own wounds of varying sizes. Even as he knocked the men away more took their places. Gerik clashed again and again with the enemy, striking down each man who stood in his way.<br>&nbsp; More booms rocked through the ship as the cannon's fired again, echoed by return fire from yet another ship. The Sea's Wrath rocked violently as a third ship pulled along side it, attacking hooks the the hull and throwing planks across the gap between the ships.<br>'This isn't looking good,' Gerik cursed, kicking an enemy away, jabbing him with his trident immediately afterwords.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 20:16:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4222720#msg4222720">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 09:20:51</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Phaedra (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199680#msg4199680)</div><br>Once Phaedra was back in her bedroom, she heard a soft tapping on her windowsill. Curious, she walked over and didn’t notice anything at first. Then she noticed a tree that hadn’t been there yesterday. All of a sudden, the tree shook! It trembled, leaves shaking, and then its roots took a step forward. Thought to be a myth, Tree Saplings were the oldest known race in existence. Very very slowly, the Tree Sapling made its way to the window. Impaled on a branch was a piece of parchment paper. A closer look showed that it was a map.</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Phaedra was overwhelmed with gratitude when the Goddess answered her prayer, and with awe when she realised she was seeing one of the rarest beings on the planet.&nbsp; The girl reached out, and plucked the map from its branch, and then wasn’t quite sure what to do.&nbsp; What was the protocol for dealings with such an ancient race?&nbsp; Good manners dictated that she should say thank you, so she thought she had better start there.<br><br>“Thank you so much, for bringing this to me.&nbsp; It is such a great honour to meet you.”<br><br>The&nbsp; Tree Sapling made a very soft rustling noise, its leaves and branches moving gracefully.&nbsp; Gradually a word emerged from the clicking of twigs and movement of leaves.&nbsp; <br><br>“Wellllccommmme”<br><br>He rustling came to a stop and she saw the roots begin to withdraw, so she knew the visit was over.<br><br>“Be safe, in your journey.”&nbsp; It was all she could think of to bid the creature farewell.<br><br>She looked at the map in her hands.&nbsp; It was nowhere near she was sure, and it was a land she didn’t know.&nbsp; She would need the Goddess to guide her path, until she began to recognise the landmarks drawn upon the intricate map.<br><br>She packed clothes into a large backsack, and started to make her plans.&nbsp; The garden would have to fend for itself, at least everything had been planted as it was springtime, and hopefully there would be something to harvest when she returned, if she returned in the autumn.&nbsp; She certainly hoped she would be back by the autumn, she would find it difficult to be journeying towards the end of the year, and as for the thought of being away from home in the winter, that was just a dreadful thought, but she would do whatever Persephone required.<br><br>She would need to take the cat to her neighbour, who would happily look after the friendly creature, and perhaps the neighbour would keep an eye on the place, if she offered produce when it was ready.<br><br>She set some bread to bake, found a small wheel of cheese, some cured ham, and placed them ready for the morning.&nbsp; Whilst the bread was baking, she cleaned her cottage, as she didn’t want to leave it in an untidy, unclean state.&nbsp; When everything was how she liked it, she prepared for bed.&nbsp; She would be up early in the morning, finish her preparations for the journey, and then she would be on her way, not long after the sun rose.&nbsp; <br><br>Before she slept she prayed again to her Goddess.&nbsp; “Please Great Goddess Persephone, guide me to the place you need me to be, show me the task you need me to perform, and give me the strength and endurance that I will need to complete your wishes.”&nbsp; She asked the Goddess to care for her garden, and to guide her back safely when the task was complete.&nbsp; When her prayer was finished she wondered how long she would be away, and what adventures were to befall her.&nbsp; She wasn’t scared but she was apprehensive.&nbsp; She trusted the Goddess to help her, but she felt that anyone would feel the fear she was feeling, not knowing what was ahead.&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Xilian</strong> on <strong>06-02-2011, 20:24:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zilior walked along the long path that seemed immense as he looked in front of him.<br>As far as the eye could see there was nothing but the sandy road, grass and some trees now and then.<br>A gentle breeze blew through the man's hair. Then he stood still. Was it just his imagination or had he heard a scream? He looked back at the barely visible inn. Could it be...?<br>He listened as focused as he could. Another scream sounded, this time he was sure of it.<br>He turned around and started running towards the inn as fast as he could. <br><br>Why did he even care so much? He didn't owe these people anything. He had paid for both his meals and stay at the inn. The scared face of the cute faerie appeared in his mind. He shook his head and ran even faster.<br>The inn seemed larger and larger as he got closer. He could clearly see horses tied up to a pole. They looked dehydrated and tired. Another scream sounded. Out of instinct Zilior grabbed his dagger. He made it!<br>With a harsh pull he opened the door and rushed in. Two men looked up with a surprised expression on their face. The men were rather muscular and looked threatening. Taking adventage of their confusion he charged right at them and attacked, aiming for their heads. One of the robbers couldn't evade in time. His dagger left a huge gap in his neck where blood was gushing out. The second one jumped away and pulled out his sword. 'I'll make you suffer for that!' he threatened Zilior.<br>Without saying a word Zilior threw his dagger at the man hitting his eye.<br><br>The man fell on the floor while cursing and screaming. Zilior simply looked down on him and pushed the dagger trough his skull with his foot. Then he noticed the maiden lying on the floor. Her clothes were ripped off and it seemed she was unconscious. He kneeled next to the girl and wrapped his mantle around her.<br>She slowly opened her eyes and her wings started flapping a bit. He smiled, a quit rare occasion.<br>The girls eyes grew big and her lips moved, but he couldn't understand what she tried to say.<br>Then everything around him became black. The last thing he remembered was falling down.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>07-02-2011, 04:55:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Waking in a cold sweat<br><br>The first sound that registered was that of laughter, muffled and distant. Some of the older children ignoring the lights out curfew again, no doubt. Zedd lay on his back in the bed, heavy sheets rumpled around him wet with his sweat. His breathing was fast and his heart pounded in his chest, and he kept his eyes closed until he reined it back under control. Easy. One, two. One, two. Everything was fine. One, two. Keep a grip. One, two.<br><br>After a few moments, Zedd opened his eyes and stared into the familiar blackness of his room. Crickets chirped outside the window in the still night air, singing their songs to each other and the few straggling drunkards that had yet to ramble their way home. Unfortunately, his thoughts were not so peaceful.<br><br>'A dream. Just a dream. But...was it? No. Not a dream; a vision. From Lady Artemis. That map...What's in California? The old Redwood Forest? And what did she mean...?' Zedd remembered the last of the dream, the touch of the goddess's palm on his head. 'A gift, she said. To see through the eyes of nearby animals. But, how am I supposed to...'<br><br>He sat up in the bed and swung his feet out to meet the floor, and wiped his brow. 'Wait. She said to reach out here,' he recalled as his hand swiped over his forehead. Zedd leaned over and fumbled around on the nearby table for a candle and flint lighter, bringing a small point of light into the gloom. He sat back on the bed and closed his eyes once more, crossing his arms and drawing a slow, deep breath, then tried to imagine himself seeing through the eyes of another creature.<br><br>Since he only half-expected it to work, he only half-screamed when he suddenly realized he was staring at himself from across the room. He was huge. And there were eight of him.<br><br>Zedd watched, partly fascinated and mostly terrified, as the 'other him', a small house spider, turned and carried his sight straight up -- up! -- a wall and disappeared into a huge crack in the ceiling. In the last instant before the candle's light disappeared from view, Zedd spied giant crumbs of plaster and brick, and what looked like the most enormous dust balls he'd ever seen. They looked nearly as big as his head! <br><br>As the candle's glow faded, however, his vision did not diminish as he'd expected it to. Instead, his surroundings took on a strange, gray-tinged, almost ghostly aspect, but remained as clear as day. The little spider scurried forward at a dizzying speed, skittering this way and that, leaving Zedd feeling considerably nauseated and disoriented. He tried to focus his thoughts on the spider, tried to control its direction and speed, but either the Lady Artemis had neglected to grace him with that additional talent, or he simply wasn't skilled enough to use it yet. Perhaps with practice. <br><br>Zedd was considering how to 'disconnect' from the tiny arachnid when nature stepped in and solved the problem for him. He was finally starting to get used to the altered perspective when a sharp pang of fear slammed into his brain like an iron spike. Zedd could feel his body, his real body, break out in a cold sweat as a presence seemed to loom over him from behind. The spider turned around just in time to see the powerful mandibles of a humongous cockroach crunch through its thorax. The spider's vision went black, for for a moment so too did Zedd's.<br><br>When he snapped back into himself, Zedd felt weak with the aftershocks of the spider's fear and agony and clambered out of bed. He stumbled toward the window and stuck his head out just in time to expel the remainder of the evening's supper into the gutter, his body wracked with heaves. For several moments he leaned against the windowsill, gasping for breath, until the creaking hinges of his bedroom door alerted him to a visitor.<br><br>"Zedd? Esta bien?" Ernesto, Zedd's de facto right hand, and at fifteen, one of the oldest children in the home, stood anxiously in the doorway. His shaggy brown hair hung loose across the left side of his face, covering the angry red patch of scar tissue that marked his forehead. "We heard...noises?"<br><br>"Que?" Zedd said, his hazy thoughts finally congealing back into understanding. "oh, si, Ernesto. I'm, uh...I'm fine, my friend. Please, get back to sleep. Everything is alright," he replied as he straightened himself back up. "Just bad dreams. Gracias, mi amigo."<br><br>Ernesto lingered a moment longer, uncertainty plain on his face, but at last nodded and left. Zedd sat back down on the bed and held his head in his hands. Something about this whole situation felt...sinister. Daunting. But Lady Artemis had summoned him, and he would not fail her. He would leave at dawn. The goddess's last words echoed in his thoughts. '"Be swift, Zedd!"' She'd called, before vanishing into the dream forest.<br><br>'Yes...I suspect I'll need to be,' Zedd thought as he lay back into bed.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AngelsDemonsCode</strong> on <strong>07-02-2011, 11:21:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><em>Island of Crete, Antheia (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4202624#msg4202624) seeing a little one apparently hurt outside her home/weapons shop.</em></strong><br><hr><hr><br><div class="floatright">(http://www.blackpowdermag.com/gallery/connors-prairie-2006/Forge-01.jpg)</div> Antheia was <em>this</em> close in missing the little child hurt and she would always (always) be angry with herself for that. She had entered her forgery a few seconds after leaving it, remembering that she had to throw away the bucket of used water first before going off to pack her things and leave. The last thing she wanted was mosquitoes in her forgery when she returned from this trip of hers. <br><br>She dropped her accumulated things next to the door, deciding that the items in it will survive the ground while she quickly tends to this one task of hers. Spotting the bucket, she quickly went over to it as she wanted to finish all tasks that needed to be done no matter how small it seemed to others.<br><br>If she hadn't, she wouldn't have seen the little girl. She would have simply gathered her things and rush off, leaving behind the area a few minutes later and not looked back due to her believed sense of urgency in Hephaestus' message in her dreams. <br><br>She wouldn't have known what happened outside her forgery. Only the Gods and Goddesses themselves would have only known what happened to her if she decided to leave the bucket for later, and that was what filled her with so much dread whenever she thought about it. <br><br>So she calmly walked towards the window. looked out to see if there way anyone or anything that she avoid hitting...<br><br>... and quickly swore in her island's tongue at the sight of a little one hurt, her maternal instincts coming to life. <br><br>She had no interest in child rearing in her future or children in general, true, but! It didn't meant she did not have a soft spot for the little ones that lived on the island here. Most people thought she would despise them for not only her choice in her job but also because her relative was a famous grump and was known for dislike of the noisy little 'monsters' if they ever came by. The woman, contrary to popular belief, liked the children and had some sweets to share with them nearby if they wandered by her shop. Seeing one apparently hurt and in obvious discomfort made her feel like she was in pain as well. <br><br>There was no way on earth she'll stand and watch that child be in any more pain. Just no way! Quickly dropping the bucket, letting the clammy and lukewarm bucket wash over her sandal clad feet, she hurried out of the window as it was large enough and wide enough for her frame. She ran towards the girl at breakneck speed, hoping she'll get there before... before <em>anything</em> else happened to the unfortunate child.<br><br>The young girl feel to her knees, her wobbling legs giving into the pain she must have felt, while clutching to her side in a death grip. She did not cry though. Tears were escaping from her large, doe-like eyes and her frame was shaking from the effort of maintaining herself but she did not make a noise or fuss as Antheia rushed to her side to see if the child was fine. The child made a sound or two but it wasn't a whimper or hiss, instead a grunt or inhale of breath while she restrained herself from showing too much pain.<br><br>The older woman felt pride, for some reason, in the child's courage to not cry or wail as she gathered the child up in her arms and cradled her. The girl was strong and will survive, hopefully, from whatever had hurt her. Antheia wanted to check on the girl's wounds now but her hands were soiled from her work and from picking things up and did not want to possibly infect the child. They'll have to get back to her home before she could take a look at the possibly injuries the child had. <br><br>She stood up, holding the child completely in her arms and was surprised by how small the girl was. She fitted easily, even more, in her arms and was very light. Was she this small, this fragile in her youth?<br><br>"Little one," she said, her voice loud and firm to catch the child's attention. Her tone was gentle and assuring though, not wanting to scare her in case she was jittery. She hurried back to her home, remembering the kit she kept in her den or in the forgery at all times in case she injured herself. The child she held in her arms was from the village, she knew of it. Antheia dimly recalled this girl to be one of the few children who accepted her sweets. "Little one, what is the matter? Why did you come to see me for a wound? Are the doctors busy or... or did something happen? No... save your strength. We must get you checked and taken care of at once."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>07-02-2011, 12:27:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4224063#msg4224063">Quote from: Narianna on 05-02-2011, 22:04:25</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><br><br>Akribos Talos (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4206400#msg4206400)<br><br>The portly human captain choked on his reply to Akribos. He was without words that the man before him wanted to leave such an amazing sight. He pulled at his grey mustache, eyening the man for a few moments before nodding his compliance.<br><br>As the boat started back up, there was a collective "Aww!" from the crowd all around. Akribos found himself once more by the railing. The beautiful purple haired mermaid had a confused look on her face but began swimming faster to try and keep up.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Smirking at the captain and crew Victor nodded to the captain and thanked him before heading to the railing and watching the Merfolk follow with this confused look on here face, but Victor knew not to act on irritation. Exposing his face would be enough to scare any merfolk away from him, especially with the gold rings, which only true servants of the god's, or special pets the Merfolk, could tel who the rings were from, Turael had a way of having most of her followers disfigured or decorated quite extensively. If he had showed that he would scare the little flirt off, but he would also have a very pissed of Zeus and Poseidon up his ass rather quickly. Shaking his head he shouted to the creature in a language of their own, one of the oldest that none of the crewmen could have known without being his age. "Aftos topotheteitai enas barka eseis ochi thelo eis akoloutho!" The creature got the point as she heard the language, realizing that only mortals who were servants to the gods spoke like that, it didn't matter which side. <br><br>Snorting as he watched the creature turn away and swim to her natives. Turning to the Captain he nodded in respect and said thank you, then turned towards his state room again, turning in for the day as the rocking of the boat put him at ease as he locked his door this time and removed his mask and beanie, letting his face breath as he exposed the large scarred face of his. The enormous scar ran over his head from the lower temple region to the middle of his head on the side, the golden rings, each having a small design which not many could make out, even if they were up close, Akribos preferred his marks of the gods to be hidden anyways. Turael gave them as a gift to him, they granted him his eternal life after all, and even if they were ripped out his life would just be mortal, but not dead. A nice weakness from Turael to remind him to hide his face when he lives around the public eye. Condemning him to live amongst the homeless and sick and dying, suffering, she was all about it.<br><br>Laying down Akribos closed his eyes and rested his head back with his mind wandering as his lust took him a moment to shrug off the imagine of the flirtatious Merfolk. Closing his eyes he slept on his back, his scarred side of his face away from the door and his rags next to his head just in case as he slept deeply, a way he found to make time fly was to rest during it all. A short two weeks and he would be there, ready to claim whatever prize it was Turael was after.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>09-02-2011, 19:25:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702)</div>Rising from his slumber before dawn Feldor quickly dresses and gathers all of his material possessions which he had packed together the night before. With Seiceron by his side he leaves the inn probably never to return. Even though the cold crisp northern Minnesota air is a shock to his system at first, he makes no outward sign of any discomfort. The two friends head out of the small town leaving a very clear trail as they are the first to disturb the fresh layer of snow on the ground.<br><br>The predawn light is just turning the sky an array of reds, pinks, and oranges as Feldor and Seiceron reach the same clearing in the forest of evergreens that they had visited the previous morning. With a wave of his hand the snow is swept away from a patch of ground. Another gesture of his hand cause several dry branches to assemble in the cleared spot. Using his flint and steel to make sparks he catches those sparks with his magic and urges them to grow and feed on the dry wood and he soon has a nice flame. Kneeling before the small fire he sets on his heels. He once again prepares himself and mentally takes hold of the magical energies flowing through this spot.<br><br>Slowly gathering the energies Feldor concentrates on his destination, the clearing in the redwood forest. Once he has gathered enough spare magic and he has the image of the clearing fixed in his mind, he stands back up. Gathering all the elements of magic, fire from the small flame at his feet, wind from the cold air around him, earth from the ground he is standing on, water from the snow covering just about everything, and finally spirit from deep within himself, he causes the fabric of space to fold in on its self. With a wave of his hands a ribbon of energy forms in the air before him and expands opening a portal to the clearing in the redwood forest. He hopes no creatures or people are near the other end of the portal as the edges of it will slice through anything as the opening expands. He also hopes there are no serious threats at the other end as most of his magic has been spent to open the doorway and it will take him hours to recover them.<br><br>Stepping through the portal Feldor’s and Seiceron’s breath is taken away momentarily by the warm moisture laden air of California. After recovering his breath he releases the magic and the portal snaps shut and the ribbon vanishes. Looking around at the mighty redwoods he sees no threats and is awed by the size and age of the trees. They move to the edge of the clearing and he once again sets on his heels. Trusting to Seiceron’s senses and nature to alert him in case of a threat, he closes his eyes and goes into a trance as he meditates to recover his spent magical energy. A small smile appears on his lips as he notices not only a leyline of magic, but three of them converging in a node at the center of the clearing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>09-02-2011, 21:28:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Zentius Yerodin (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199711#msg4199711)</div>Giving absolutely no further thought to the two would be muggers Zentius precedes directly to his destination. Arriving at a dark tower near the outskirts of the city he shakes his head and thinks, “<em>What is it with wizards and towers?</em>” After examining the tower walls closely an evil smile spreads across his face. The walls are made of stone blocks and are uneven enough for him to scale easily. Activating the chameleon power of his armor he instantly blends in nearly perfectly with the background becoming virtually invisible. With a quick thought he reduces the weight of his body to nearly nothing and begins to effortlessly climb the tower wall. He pauses at every window to peer inside and finally finds what he is seeking at a window at the very top of the tower.<br><br>Peering through the window Zentius can see the sleeping form of the wizard in his bed. Looking around the room he is pleased to see a large battle axe hanging above the fireplace. Knowing there are most likely magical protections in place he makes no attempt to enter the room. Returning his gaze to his sleeping target he uses his mind to cause the bedding to bind the wizard’s hand and to gag him. With the wizard now unable to use his hands or voice to call upon magic Zentius focuses on the axe again. The wizard’s eyes snap open and fill with terror at being rendered helpless by his own bedding. The sight of the huge axe floating across the room causes his eyes to open even wider showing the whites all around. He franticly struggles to get free but is unsuccessful as the axe comes down hard and fast cutting through flesh and bone and embedding itself deep into the mattress.<br><br>Releasing his hold on the axe and the bedding Zentius causes a clothe to wrap around the severed head. The head inside the clothe then floats across the room out the window and into his hand. With his prize in hand he pushes slightly away from the tower wall and slowly drifts down to the street below. Once on the ground he deactivates his power and the power of his armor and walks carelessly away from the scene with his grisly package dripping blood in his wake.<br><br>Arriving back at the Prancing Unicorn just after the sun breaks the horizon Zentius waits in the shadows for his employer to come out. The wait is only a few moments and when the man walks out Zentius gives the clothe a flip holding onto one edge. The head flies out drops to the ground and rolls to a stop at the man’s feet. The man jumps back startled and disgusted. Stepping out of the shadows Zentius lowers his hood. “There is the head you asked for. Now where is my payment?” The man stares down at the head for a moment without responding or moving. Taking another step closer Zentius gets a dangerous look on his dark face. “If you’re planning on cheating me the sight of that head will be the last thing you see. I have honored my side of the contract and it is too late to renegotiate the price. Now, give me what is mine.”<br><br>“Okay, it is yours just give me a moment to get it out. I just was not expecting you to work quite so quickly.” The man reaches down to a pouch on his belt and pulls out a roll of thick clothe that just barely fits through the fully stretched opening. The roll is about three feet long which means the pouch is obviously magical as it is not more than a few inches deep by outward appearance. He holds the roll out to Zentius who takes it without another word. Unrolling it Zentius lays the three foot by foot rug on the ground. Seating down on the rug with his legs cross he gives it a mental command to rise and it rises with him seating on it several feet into the air. With a smile on his face he causes the rug to start to move away. “Wait, what am I supposed to do with this head?”<br><br>Dropping the bloody clothe next to the head Zentius replies, “I don’t know or care. You said you wanted it. Now it’s your problem what to do with it.” The rug rises higher into the sky and starts moving in the direction of the redwood forest in California.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>10-02-2011, 09:48:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Aleka Softlystepping (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199655#msg4199655)</div><br>At the sound of her staff hitting the tree, the giant stopped. The noise was almost imperceptible to the rock giant’s bad hearing capability, but was heard nonetheless. The giant turned ever so slowly. When he spied Aleka on the ground, his expression changed. It was as hopeful an expression as possible for a nine foot tall grey rock giant. It took one giant step toward Aleka, the reverberations made her bounce slightly.<br><br>“Greetings, little cat,” using the common language, the giant’s voice rumbled forth like the sound of cracking rocks. “What you doing here?”<br><br><div align="center">Elic Stemis (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199948#msg4199948)</div><br>Running so quickly for the first time, the scenery moving by at a blinding speed, Elic ran smack into a woman, knocking her over. Her honey blond curls, tied back simply by an ornate comb, spilled all over her face as she toppled to the ground. The highly expensive dress was covered in dust from the dirt road and the many jewels, bracelets, and necklaces she wore became tangled in each other. Her pretty little delicate face was tear streaked and, by the puffiness of her eyes, was probably so before Elic ran into her. Her pocket full of coins lay scattered about the road. She sat on her rump, blinking up at Elic in a light daze.<br><br><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>When Zilior awoke, he was tied to a wooden chair in the inn’s wine cellar. The air about him was cool, suggesting it was somehow kept magically at a chilly temperature. Sounds of tables crashing and bottles breaking came from above. A glance to his right revealed a stripped Selena lying tied to a bed. The bedside chest of drawers, barren space, and evidently used candles suggested this was a servant’s sleeping area. Selena let out a soft moan and whimper as she began coming to.<br><br>A male human popped his head out from behind one of the wine racks. The rest of his finely tuned body followed. He took a long swig from the bottle of red wine he was holding while eyeing the waking faerie. He turned his attention to Zilior.<br><br>“That’s a fine piece of virginal ass there, isn’t it?” The man goaded Zilior.<br><br>Selena roused herself from her groggy state, trying to take account of her current situation, but all she could think to do was yelling, “Grandpapa? Grandpapa?!”<br><br>The captor laughed maniacally and walked toward the bed. He sat beside Selena and brushed her bright blue hair from her delicate pale face. A look of terror sprouted on the girl’s features and she began to thrash violently in her tethers, realizing the naked state of her body. Running a hand down Selena’s form, cupping a dainty breast, he said, “Shhh… There’s no need to struggle. Your Grandpapa is in a much better place now. As for your fate…” The man’s hand continued down Selena’s body.<br><br><div align="center">Antheia Aiolos (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4202624#msg4202624)</div><br>The little girl lay in Antheia’s arms. Her lower lip quivered and tears formed in her eyes. She took a deep breath and clamped teeth down on her lip, forcing the tears to recede. She pointed in the distance toward the village. A couple columns of smoke could be seen billowing in the air.<br><br>“They c-came from the ocean, Ms. Aiolos. Just appeared out of nowhere. Stormed the village, cutting everyone down where they stood.” The little girl took a breath but winced in pain before she could continue. Seconds later, the girl’s pain rendered her unconscious.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>10-02-2011, 10:46:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Anthimus’s Dream</span><br><br>The mist was thick and swirled about the dark form that emerged, walking on the water below. The river Styx was frigid and still – far from placid – beneath the cloaked figure’s feet. As he approached, the God lowered his hood. The whole of his eyes were as black as his hair. His sculpted pale chest was framed by the long billowing black cloak. He wore black leather pants, though his feet were bare. The only bit of color came from the blood red poppies that littered the dark water. He held a scythe in his right hand and stood there prominent. Commanding.<br><br>“I am Thanatos.” His voice was not loud but it seemed to come from all angles, from the very air that surrounded Anthimus. “The Gods need your help, Anthimus. You presence is urgently requested.” Thanatos spoke slowly and wisely. He waved his left hand, moonlight from an unseen moon shown off the black metal bracers, and a map made from the mist appeared before Anthimus. Thanatos pointed to a clearing in Redwood Forest in the midst of California. “Here. This is where you must go. Further instructions will be given upon your arrival.” The black orbs focused intensely on Anthimus. “As long as you do our bidding, Anthimus, I will not come for you. Your soul is safe and your body will always heal,” Thanatos reassured him, granting Anthimus temporary immortality. “Do not waste my time or I may come early for your soul…”<br><br>The mist began to swirl and impede Anthimus’s vision. Soon, the form of Thanatos had been swallowed. Anthimus’s vision faded to black.</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>10-02-2011, 12:40:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Hard to say goodbye<br><br>Despite his decision the night before to begin his journey at first light, Zedd still had not left San Lobos until almost noon. As he started packing his travel gear, he had realized he wouldn't be able to leave without ensuring the orphanage would be taken care of in his absence. Unfortunately, that meant a discussion with Ernesto over breakfast, with the young man asking a lot of questions that Zedd didn't have any answers to.<br><br>"Por que? Why you are leaving, Zedd? We did something wrong?" Ernesto asked, causing Zedd to nearly choke on his orange juice.<br><br>"Wrong? Of course not, Ernesto. This has nothing to do with any of you, I just..." Zedd paused for a moment, considering how much to tell his student. After debating with himself, he elected to fill him in on the vision he'd recieved from Artemis. Zedd glanced around to make sure none of the younger children were listening in, and gestured for Ernesto to lean in a little. In hushed whispers, Zedd described the dream and explained that he had been selected by the gods for what he suspected was an important errand, leaving out the part about Artemis' gift. There was no need to frighten the young man any further than he already clearly was. Ernesto's eyes widened as he absorbed his teacher's story, and nodded in understanding when they sat back into their chairs. The young man had no particular loyalty to any one deity yet, but he knew full well the importance of answering a call to divine service. That it was Lady Artemis who had summoned Zedd helped greatly to soothe Ernesto's fears; he recalled how often he'd come across Maria offering prayers to her in the small shrine out back. Though he was young, he was wise enough to realize that in all likelihood, Zedd was doing this as much to honor Maria's memory as to serve Artemis.<br><br>"Si. Alright, Zedd. I will try to keep la casa well until you come home. Will you use the lightning rails to travel, or...?"<br><br>"Gracias, hermanito. I'll try to come home soon. I'd better not take the rails, though; I don't think they will take me far enough. I'll have to shadowsurf. It's been a while since I used that skill, but I have a strong feeling I need to get to California as soon as possible, and we don't have the money to pay my passage on one of the caravans," Zedd replied, speaking in between mouthfuls of slightly charred spiced eggs and outright burnt toast.<br><br>"You'll find some lesson plans and homework assignments for the younger children in my desk, enough to keep them out of trouble for at least three weeks. Talk to Senor Montez about covering the expenses, he should be willing to help you out if you explain things to him. You and Juanita should be able to handle any problems that come up, yes?" He continued, a sly smile on his face. He knew the young man had been developing a crush on Juanita, a girl about his age. The two had grown up in the orphanage together, and Maria had always teased them about getting married someday. From Ernesto's suddenly red face, Zedd guessed she wasn't far wrong. "I'm sure everything here will be fine, Ernesto. Now...I suppose you should gather the others. I'll need to say goodbye."<br><br>Ernesto's expression turned downcast, and he nodded shortly. Without a word he left the kitchen and started rounding up the other children. Zedd finished his meal and put the clay dishes away, then returned to his room to finish packing. When he arrived back downstairs, his rucksack lightly packed with only a couple changes of clothes and his holding bag cinched tight to his belt, he stood in front of a small mob of kids of all ages, about twenty or so strong. Many of them looked heartbroken, and as one they began chattering and pelting him with questions, begging him not to go. He raised a hand for silence, and almost immediately the children fell quiet.<br><br>"I'm very sorry I must leave, ninos, but there's something very important that I must do. I promise, I'll come back home as soon as I can, but until then I want you all to listen to Ernesto. He is in charge until I come back." Zedd turned and gave Ernesto's shoulder a squeeze. "It's all yours, hermano."<br>______________________<br><br>After saying his final goodbyes to the children, Zedd picked up his pack and walked outside to a small shack that was built on haphazard to the orphanage proper. Ramshackle didn't come close to describing it, but it suited Zedd's needs just fine, for inside it was completely empty, and not a single ray of sunlight pierced the walls or ceiling. It was black as night inside, a perfect gate to begin shadowsurfing. Zedd stepped inside and sealed the heavy wooden door behind him, saying a silent prayer that he'd find as suitable an exit.<br><br>He reached up to his shoulder and tightened the straps on his backpack to ensure it would stay put, then closed his eyes and took a deep breath, the first of many. When he'd told Ernesto it had been a while since he'd done this, he wasn't kidding; he remembered learning the technique from a local government official one night after beating him in a drinking game at the tavern, not long after he'd first come to Mexico. Since then he'd rarely used it, as the sorts of distances he usually travelled now were not worth such effort. But it would be worth it now. Zedd cleared his mind of all thought and allowed his body to experience the sensation of being completely wrapped in shadow and darkness.<br><br>Several minutes later, Zedd's body felt as light as air. It was as if he no longer existed in this world. At last, he began to cast his mind about, knowing instinctively where to find the deepest and best concentrations of shadows in the direction he needed to travel. As soon as a dark enough patch was located, the rest of him faded from existence, and he felt the pure essence of himself being pulled inexorably toward his destination by nothing but iron will and gossamer memory.<br><br>Ernesto, who had followed Zedd out back into the small courtyard and watched him enter the shed, approached and knocked on the door after watching for nearly a half hour. Hearing no answer, he pushed open the door to find the small shack completely empty. He shook his head and leaned against the doorframe. "May the gods watch over you, Hermano. Godspeed." With that, he turned and headed back into the home. There was much to do.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightBlade</strong> on <strong>10-02-2011, 21:46:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				As Elic was enjoying is Soothing stroll to Redwood he was rudely stopped when he ran into something. He slammed into the humanly figure and was sent flying a little bit past the object. He stood up in a small daze. Once he recovered from this daze he looked on at the site he now saw. In front of him lay a beauty, No only was she a beauty she also carried a lot of valuables. He gazed over the glittering coin that fell from her elegant, well use to be elegant dress. <br>"What would a beautiful lady like her need with all theses trinkets" he grinned as he walked closer. He picked up a few of the coins that flew from her pockets and landed a bit away. After taking his fair share of her gold and a few tangled trinkets he walked over to her.<br>"I am terribly sorry Madame" he offered his hand to her to help her up.<br>He took note of her fine dress etire and your puffy eyes. "Did someone hurt the fair lase or was the tears from our Collide" he poundered as his hand was still out stretched. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Skyrider</strong> on <strong>11-02-2011, 07:53:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<span class="bbc_u"><strong>Location:&nbsp; Shadow Temple of Thanatos, Western Sahara</strong></span><br><br>Three days.&nbsp; Three days of near darkness.&nbsp; The only source of light coming from the small pyreflies that floated around Anthimus as he sat before an Altar of Thanatos.&nbsp; For three days, he sat before the figure of his god meditating as part of his training under the Disciples of Thanatos.&nbsp; Locked inside an enchanted room until he achieved enlightenment or died of starvation.<br><br>Slowly, he opened his eyes from his deep meditation and recollected on what he had just experienced.&nbsp; He could still remember the dream as clear as glass.&nbsp; Thanatos standing before him and instructing him to go to a land that was unknown to him, and yet had a clear vision on how to get there.&nbsp; As he slowly rose back up to his feet, the Pyreflies moved over to where the door was located and disenchanted it, causing the door to open on it's own.&nbsp; Once the door was open, Anthimus turned and proceeded out of the room.As he walked down the halls of the temple, Anthimus could hear the voices of the other Acolytes he walked past, some were surprised that Anthimus managed to exit the chambers in only three days, due to it usually taking a week for an acolyte to achieve enlightenment.&nbsp; Ignoring the whispers, he continued on till he arrived at the door to the Matriarch's Chambers.<br><br>"Enter my child."&nbsp; A voice was heard from the otherside of the door before Anthimus could even knock.&nbsp; Entering the chambers, he quietly approached and knelt before the Martriarch.&nbsp; A beautiful Elvan woman with raven hair and eyes as white as the moon itself.&nbsp; She sat poised on her throne as Anthimus knelt down in front of her.&nbsp; As she looked down at him, her eyes suddenly widened in shock.&nbsp; "Anthimus.....you have been touched by Death himself."<br><br>"My lady,"&nbsp; Anthimus spoke, never raising his head up, "while meditating, I saw our Lord Thanatos.&nbsp; I mean, I saw him as clear as I can see you.&nbsp; He even spoke to me."<br><br>"Oh?&nbsp; Do you remember his words?"&nbsp; She asked.<br><br>"He said that I must go to the outside world to a clearing that I have never been to or seen.&nbsp; Despite that, the map he showed me somehow gave me the knowledge on how to get there."&nbsp; Anthimus replied.<br><br>The Matriarch then rose to her feet and walked up closer to Anthimus, kneeling down in front of him and raising his head to look into his eyes.&nbsp; "He's done more than spoke to you, didn't he.&nbsp; I can sense the very essence of the gods surging through you right now.&nbsp; Though, this vision of yours has helped me confirm something that has been concerning me for sometime."<br><br>"What do you mean my Lady?"&nbsp; Anthimus asked.<br><br>"For the past few days, myself and the other elders have been&nbsp; sensing a fluctuation in the flow of souls."&nbsp; Almost as if on cue, several pyreflies entered and hovered over the two.&nbsp; The Matriarch then stretched out her hand and let a pyrefly rest on her hand.&nbsp; "They been growing, uneasy over the past few days.&nbsp; And though it's faint right now, I can sense fear coming from them.&nbsp; This has been weaved out by the fates themselves."&nbsp; She then rose back to her feet and turned her back towards Anthimus in deep thought.&nbsp; "Anthimus, you must do what our Lord has commanded.&nbsp; Though I am not fully aware of the situation, one thing I believe is that you must play a role in what's to unfold in time.&nbsp; The balance between life and death must not break.&nbsp; While there are those that preserve life, we are the ones that preserve death."<br><br>Turning again, the Matriarch moved over to her desk and opened a drawer.&nbsp; She reached in and pulled out two items, a medallion bearing the insignia of Thanatos and a small bag filled with what sounded like coins.&nbsp; Closing the drawer, she walked back up to Anthimus and placed the items in his hands.&nbsp; "It is not much but it will be of use to you once you start to interact with the outside world.&nbsp; And should you ever be in need of guidance or sanctum, this medallion will guide you to the nearest Shadow Temple and grant you access under my protection."<br><br>"I understand, my lady."&nbsp; Anthimus replied as he rose to his feet.&nbsp; Once he stood up, the Matriarch pulled down his hood, revealing his painted face before her.<br><br>"Remember your training my child.&nbsp; Darkness and Death are not evil. Only those who wield them can make it so.&nbsp; Just as there are warriors who preserve life, you are the warrior that must preserve death."&nbsp; She gave her final words of guidance.&nbsp; With that, she gave her blessing to Anthimus to venture out of the temple to do the task that has been placed on him by Death itself.<br><br>With a final bow, Anthimus exited the Matriarch's chambers and without hesitation, proceeded his way to the nearest exit.&nbsp; After trailing down the halls of the dark temple, Anthimus found himself out in a cave opening embedded in a cliff right on the shores of the atlantic ocean.&nbsp; He looked on towards the vast waters before him.&nbsp; After almost 10 years of living beneath the world with the Death Acolytes, he wasn't sure what to expect beyond the shores.&nbsp; Though confused on what he must do, Anthimus calmly walked right over the edge and into a free fall down towards the crashing waves against the cliff.&nbsp; Just a mere moment before hitting the water, Anthimus sprout out his wings and took flight right into the air.&nbsp; He quickly took up altitude till he was as high as the clouds and proceeded west, towards the American Continents.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nooblet</strong> on <strong>11-02-2011, 20:46:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">At Sea; Gerik and the <em>Sea's Wrath</em> fighting with pirates.</div>&nbsp; <br><br><br>&nbsp; Gerik smashed the shaft of his trident into a man's head, causeing him to recoil and flip off the railing into the ocean. Things were looking bad. Two full ships had connected and were raiding the Sea's Wrath. The only bit of good news was the third ship was forced to stop firing or risk hitting their allies. Blocking a vertical slash, Gerik twisted and threw the man off-balance, taking the opportunity to jab his trident into the man's side.<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp; 'This isnt going well, there are just to many...' Gerik cursed in his mind, gritting his teeth.<br><br>&nbsp; ALmost unconsiously, Gerik thought of his gift from Poseidon. Immediately it seemed the anger that Gerik was feeling was felt by the sea itself. The waters roiled and raged, rocking the ships. Two abnormally large waves crashed into the pirate ships, snapping their hooks and launching them away from the Sea's Wrath. As soon as they had been moved off two massive pillars of seething water burst up into both ships, piercing hulls and tossing men overboard. The thirsd ship's crew screamed in surprise and fear as the ocean itself split open under them, causing them to sink down to the bottom before the waters crashed back over their heads.<br><br>&nbsp; The crew of the Sea's Wrath stood in silent astonishment. Gerik, snapping out of his trance to find he had been holding his trident aloft, collapsed to the ground. His bodt felt very weak, and he had a ravenous hunger knawing at his gut. A few of the crew helped Gerik to sit up, and he was brought something to eat. While Gerik rested the rest of the crew mopped up what pirates hadnt immediately given up on the Sea's Wrath. Once this was finished and all pirates thrown overboard, the crew made ready to sail for the Island of Crete, the closest ports around them.<br>_______________________________________<br><br>&nbsp; As the Sea's Wrath drew closer to the Island of Crete the crew cursed at the smoke rising. More pirates, even hear? Gerik, who had finally recovered from his fatigue, gripped his trident until his knuckles turned white. He knew how pirates treated villagers. THe men would be murdered, and the women and children taken as slaves.<br><br>&nbsp; As the ship pulled in to the docks Gerik, and other warriors of the Sea's Wrath, leapt off the deck onto the docks and ran towards to village, hoping to save anyone they can.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>12-02-2011, 10:23:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Arya Angelicus (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200851#msg4200851)</div><br>“Plan to take the whole night do you?” Gideon’s brows raised teasingly, a playful, yet always intense look on his face. The sight of the woman’s breasts and the smell of her perfume stirred things low inside him. He leaned forward and gave her a heated look. His blouse billowed and Arya was able to see his hard muscular darkly tanned chest, lightly dusted with black curly hair. Purely masculine pheromones wafted toward her.<br><br>“I’m interested. What is this quest you are on?” Gideon asked nonchalantly, sitting back once more, keeping his intense gaze focused on her sea green eyes.<br><br><div align="center">Elic Stemis (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199948#msg4199948)</div><br>“Oh!” The woman accepted Elis’s hand and gave him a gracious look as she was helped up. “Thank you, kind Sir,” the woman stated as she brushed off her skirts. She sniffled and wiped the tears from her eyes. “I must look a terrible mess!” The woman exclaimed.<br><br>“Please forgive me for walking into your path. I must say I didn’t notice you one bit.” The woman began picking up her belongings. “My name is Katherine,” she stopped long enough to extend her hand in greeting. “You must join me for lunch, good Sir,” she said deciding. “It will make me feel as though I’ve made up this little faux pas,” Katherine looked at him, waiting expectantly for his acquiescence.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>KaiiVii</strong> on <strong>12-02-2011, 20:23:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4243445#msg4243445">Quote from: Narianna on 10-02-2011, 09:48:14</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Aleka Softlystepping (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199655#msg4199655)</div><br>At the sound of her staff hitting the tree, the giant stopped. The noise was almost imperceptible to the rock giant’s bad hearing capability, but was heard nonetheless. The giant turned ever so slowly. When he spied Aleka on the ground, his expression changed. It was as hopeful an expression as possible for a nine foot tall grey rock giant. It took one giant step toward Aleka, the reverberations made her bounce slightly.<br><br>“Greetings, little cat,” using the common language, the giant’s voice rumbled forth like the sound of cracking rocks. “What you doing here?”<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Aleka gulped silently as he paused and turned to her, oh crap. She hoped she didn't anger him. Before she could even think about running or trying to speak his words made her relax. Trying to balance better on the bouncing ground she bowed slightly. "I have been sent on a quest, Master Giant, by my Lord and God, Pan. I am trying to reach a forest on the other side of this continent, although I do not know the best way."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>13-02-2011, 08:07:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arya was finding the man hard to resist in turn given his ruggedly handsome looks and the way he carried himself.&nbsp; Gideon was going to be one experience she would remember for quite some time most likely.&nbsp; When he asked the same question, just phrased differently, the priestess did have to wonder if she hadn't made herself clear the first time or not.&nbsp; "As I said before, all I know is that Aphrodite wants me to head to Redwoods Forest, California.&nbsp; The reason I don't know, but I have faith it'll become clear once I get there."&nbsp; She repeated, still grinning from ear to ear as she took another sip of her wine, taking the bottle with her as she rose from her chair.&nbsp; "I leave at dawn.&nbsp; Follow me if you wish."&nbsp; She offered, letting him catch her butt swaying from side to side as she walked back up to her room.&nbsp; If he followed, she'd make him remember this night quite fondly.&nbsp; If not, well there were other inns and towns she could find people more willing.&nbsp; Arya douted it would be a problem though.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>13-02-2011, 08:48:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Raziel’s Dream<br></span><br>Raziel comes to consciousness surrounded by total darkness. It takes him a moment to realize he is dreaming and not awake. A few seconds pass before there’s a huge explosion that seems to come from the center of his chest. Once the blinding light fades, Raziel can see random staircases leading in every which direction floating all around him. Also floating are treasure chests, stars, planets, some curtains, a manatee; a fork floated right past Raziel’s face. There was an amalgamation of all sorts of random items floating in the darkness that surrounded him.<br><br>“Raziel,” the high pitched echoing voice came from directly behind him. Raziel whirled around to see a very large lightly green giant clad in battle ready red and grey armor with a helmet made of bones and arms crossed… floating upside down.<br><br>Seeing he had Raziel’s attention, Zanaen righted himself and pointed a tense finger at Raziel. “You!” He screeched before drawing very close and whispering in his ear, “Have been selected by the Sarians to kill specific Olympian disciples.”<br><br>He tore himself away and started pacing in a circle about Raziel. “These disciples are meeting in Redwood Forest in California. They’re going to try and destroy the Great Evil… BUT I WANT IT! I want the Great Evil, you see. Oh the CHAOS!” Zanaen clapped giddily and laughed before continuing his pacing. This time his pacing became sporadic, walking upside down and around and under, sometimes through objects.<br><br>Vakortur hadn’t trusted Zanaen to not involve one of his disciples, and furthermore didn’t trust Zanaen to be able to give said disciple specific directions to the correct forest. So he’d written a map for Zanaen ‘just in case.’ This map was neatly written in black ink on a piece of old but clean white parchment paper. It was now being presented to Raziel by Zanaen.<br><br>“Go here. Take this with you,” Zanaen handed him a jeweled gleaming wand. It looked to be made of a material like gold but stronger and even shinier. “It’s my wand. Now give it back.” Zanaen’s eyes looked deadly serious but as Raziel proffered the wand, Zanaen took a contemplative pose. The large man with spikes on his bracers actually jutted out a hip, crossed an arm under and scratched his chin with the other, gazing off into the distance. “No… You take it. You’ll need it.”<br><br>“Now go!” Zanaen yelled in his high pitch screech moments before the entire jumbled mess all around Raziel seemed to be sucked back into his chest. He was left once again in the familiar total darkness.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://www.alivans.com/files/jeweled_wand_zoom.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>13-02-2011, 10:22:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Some things never change<br><br>In the musty basement of an abandoned building on the outskirts of Crescent City, California, the shadows began to thicken. A rat squeaked and skittered away from the growing mass of darkness, and a pair of cockroaches watched impassively from an overhead pipe as a figure began to materialize within the dark. The alien form seemed to pull the darkness into itself, wrapping it about like some arcane cloak, until finally the shadows exploded outward and locked themselves back into their normal configurations. And in the far corner of the room stood a man who wasn't there before.<br><br>Zedd stretched his limbs, clenched and unclenched his fingers and ran his tongue over his teeth, patted his chest and legs, and hooked a thumb into the waistband of his shorts and glanced down to make sure that no, er, important pieces were left behind. 'Whew, still intact. Alright,' Zedd thought with relief as he looked around for the exit. A small flight of cobwebbed stairs led him up into a nondescript, unfurnished room. Thick layers of dust covered the once-blue walls, and more cobwebs drifted lazily from the ceiling on an unfelt breeze. Almost as though the house itself wanted him gone, Zedd watched the half-rotted front door swing part-way open with a haunting creak. He took the hint and immediately strode outside, his eyes watering from the mid-day sun's onslaught.<br><br>A small road wound past the little house, which seemed in even worse disrepair from the outside. There was no one around outside, but nearby the sounds of a small village echoed on the wind along with the wet smell of sea salt. Zedd hitched his bag tight on his shoulder and headed for the village; although he was reasonably certain he was near the Redwood Forest, it couldn't hurt to get his bearings a little more fully.<br><br>The village was further away than Zedd expected, but the weather was clear and the road was smooth. He made fine time, and within the hour stood before a small signpost that welcomed him to Crescent City. A couple of armed men passing by on horseback gave him a strange look as he walked along, but Zedd paid them no mind and kept his eyes fixed on the road at his feet. No trouble here, fellows. Just move along. The clomping of their horses faded into the distance and Zedd breathed a little easier.<br><br>Further along into the village, he recieved more odd looks from townsfolk as he travelled what seemed to be the main thoroughfare. He was beginning to worry that the villagers might have been suffering some sort of xenophobia, and images of being chased by an angry, torch-wielding mob flashed in his mind. But after a few moments' consideration, Zedd realized it was probably just his clothing; most of the people he'd seen were wearing thick, heavy pants and full-bodied shirts or coats, while he was still wearing his long shorts and open vest. After years of the Mexican heat, he hadn't really thought about taking clothes fit for different climates, and now that he did think of it he wasn't sure he owned any anyway. Zedd gave a mental shrug and hoped his appearance wouldn't cause him too much trouble.<br><br>A large sign ahead advertised an inn/diner nearby, and Zedd decided to stop in and find out how near (or far) his destination was. As he stepped inside, the sound of a dozen different conversations stopping dead as nails was palpable. He could practically feel every eye in the place swivel towards him; he couldn't remember feeling so self-conscious since he was a child, forced to attend one of his parents' interminable dinner parties. Zedd kept his head somewhat downward and tried to make himself seem as nonthreatening as possible as he took a seat at one of the empty tables and sat his pack down on the floor at his feet. One of the serving girls meandered over and looked at him quizzically for a moment, then plastered on a sweet but false smile.<br><br>"Good afternoon, sir. Is there anything I can get for you today? A menu, or a room, perhaps?" Zedd slipped a hand into one of the pouches on his belt and fumbled for the few peso notes he'd managed to bring with him. It wasn't much, no more than fifty or so, and he had only taken that to stop Ernesto from nagging him about leaving with no money at all. Still, it was all he had, and now that he was back out in the world part of him wished he'd brought more after all. But the orphanage's accounts weren't that full to begin with, and the children would certainly need what little money they had more than he did, so he would make do. For a split second Zedd considered declining the girl's offers and conserving his meager funds, but the eyes of the other patrons were still fixed firmly on him, and he decided he'd fare better as a paying customer than a freeloading stranger.<br><br>"Yes, I'd like a menu, please," Zedd said loud enough for most of the nearby customers to hear. Almost immediately the subtle tensions that had been simmering beneath the surface faded away, and a more casual air returned to the room. Conversations seemed to pick up right where they'd been dropped, including what sounded like a rather vicious argument between two men at a table behind Zedd's back. The serving girl returned with his menu, a large sheet of thin cloth stretched over a piece of light wood and presented it to him with an exaggerated flourish and the same sickly sweet smile. Zedd took it from her and made a show of looking it over, then nodded and handed it back.<br><br>"I'll have a cup of coffee and a slice of your strawberry pie, please." "Certainly, sir. Just a moment, and I'll be right out with it," the girl said as she started to turn and leave, her bright smile dimming significantly at his cheap order. Before she could leave, Zedd reached out and tapped her shoulder to regain her attention.<br><br>"By the way, I was hoping you could tell me how far this town is from the Redwood Forest? I, er, heard from a friend that it's a really beautiful place, and I'd really like to see it."<br><br>The girl wrinkled her nose at this and dropped all pretense of serving-girl politeness. "The Redwood Forest? Why would you wanna go somewhere like that? It's not nothing but a fogbank with a lot of extra tall trees."<br><br>"Please, miss, I'd really like to know. It's...it's just very important," Zedd said. He felt it would be unwise to go about claiming to be on a mission from the gods, but the look in his eyes must have convinced her anyway.<br><br>"Well, I guess if you're really that serious about it. The Forest is actually--"<br><br>"You rotten son of a bitch! I've told you once, I've told you a hundred times, you keep your damn cattle off of my land! They've broken my fences and contaminated our river for the last time, you hear me Lambert!?" "Aww, shut up, Cordell! That's my land you've been trying to fence me out of for years, and you know it!" "You lying bastard!" The two men at the table behind Zedd were on their feet now, circling and shouting at each other. As Zedd turned to see what was going on, the waitress disappeared back into the kitchen. He kicked his bag out from under the table and scooped it up before moving away from what looked to be an impending fight. The two men stared daggers at each other over their table until finally they could contain themselves no longer. In a rage, one launched himself at the other and they both fell to the floor, a rolling, kicking, punching, swearing, eight-limbed dervish. As Zedd and the other customers watched, another serving girl came out and brought Zedd his coffee and pie, ostensibly paying the ongoing battle no attention whatsoever.<br><br>"Say, isn't anyone going to stop those two?" Zedd asked as he took his food. "What, that? Nah, those guys go at it in here almost every week. They'll beat on each other for a while until the magistrate comes and hauls them off for disturbing the peace, their wives come and bail them out, then they'll be back in here tonight or tomorrow buying each other drinks. Then next week, they'll start all over again. Idiots." The girl snorted as they watched the fight. One man -- Zedd thought it was the one called Cordell -- had the other fellow in a headlock and was punching him in the head repeatedly. Zedd sat his coffee cup on a nearby table and forked a piece of pie into his mouth as the battle raged in front of him.<br><br>'Wow. Good pie.'<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>13-02-2011, 11:59:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Melvin’s Dream</span><br><br>Melvin found himself pushing the ferryboat through the dark waters below the surface, toward the Underworld. He wasn’t sure how he got there and he didn’t recognize the face of the purple haired female mermaid in the boat. He did, however, realize that he was almost to the drop off point in front of the normally empty thrones. Melvin rose to the surface of the River Styx with the ferry in tow. This time sitting in one of the thrones was a considerably tall broad-shouldered man with glowing blue eyes. The fiercely striking man seemed to be pouting slightly, hunched over in his throne made of stone. Upon seeing Melvin and his delivery, he stood and walked toward the swimming merman, holding his bident.<br><br>“Good,” the man’s purely masculine voice boomed, echoing off the cave walls. “You’ve made it.” The ferry that Melvin had been pushing began moving on its own, as if pushed by an unseen force, until it disappeared into the darkness. “Melvin,” the man’s tone was imbued with sincerity, “I am Hades.” A sense of awe and wonder filled Melvin as he looked up at this black haired man with horns that protruded from his crown and from his neck piece and from his bracers.<br><br>“Melvin, I’ve selected you, my Disciple, to complete a quest in my stead. I need you to venture to this clearing in Redwood Forest in California,” Hades hefted his great bident as though it weighed nothing and touched the tips to the water in front of Melvin. The water swirled and then revealed a map with a red dot marking the place where Melvin was to go.<br><br>“You may get some use from this,” Hades handed Melvin a helmet. “You will become invisible, as well as anyone or anything you touch while wearing the Helm of Darkness. Handle it with care.”<br><br>Hades turned and made his way back to his throne and sat back down. He paused to stare longingly at the empty throne beside him. He seemed to forget himself momentarily. He shook his head and looked back to Melvin. “Go. And quickly, Melvin.” Hades’s words were still echoing in his ears as his vision went dark and the dream ended.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://www.chucksanimeshrine.com/animeblog/uploaded_images/699788113004_02-789141.jpg)(http://www.chucksanimeshrine.com/animeblog/uploaded_images/699788113004-704428.jpg)(http://www.chucksanimeshrine.com/animeblog/uploaded_images/699788113004_04-715635.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>13-02-2011, 13:09:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><span class="bbc_u">Drache’s Dream</span><br><br>Drache found himself standing in the middle of the battlefield that had changed his life. The dead bodies were all about his feet and the late night mist swirled the edges. The moonlight shown down and revealed a dark figure walking toward him. The man was clad in black and rose golden armor with a long black cloak. His loose long black hair bounced as he strode with a wide determined gait.<br><br>Vultures circled overhead and let out a loud cry as Ares approached Drache. Ares grabbed hold of a handle and rested a foot atop an impaled body. Drache immediately recognized the body of his father. Ares pulled his spear free of the man with a wet tearing crunch sound as the bone and skin let go. His eyes were both menacing and vicious and he waited, staring at Drache, as Drache dealt with the emotions roiling through him.<br><br>“Use it,” was all Ares said for a moment. “Take those feelings with you and go to the Redwood Forest in California. You will need those emotions for your quest. Learn to harness them and use them in battle,” Ares’s voice was riddled with wisdom, sincerity, and harshness.<br><br>One of the circling vultures came from above and Ares held out an arm. The vulture lighted on his arm, its yellow beak and beady black eyes turned toward Drache as it cocked its head to focus on him. It stretched its long red neck and let out a screech before spreading its golden tipped black wings and fluttering to Drache’s shoulder. Ares nodded in a gesture of presentation, denoting the vulture as a gift.<br><br>Ares balled a fist and placed it over Drache’s heart saying “Use it” in that firm ton once more before turning and walking away, leaving Drache alone on the battlefield with his new vulture.</strong><br><br><div align="center">(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/2712592098_26f49fabba.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Xilian</strong> on <strong>13-02-2011, 17:00:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4243445#msg4243445">Quote from: Narianna on 10-02-2011, 09:48:14</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>When Zilior awoke, he was tied to a wooden chair in the inn’s wine cellar. The air about him was cool, suggesting it was somehow kept magically at a chilly temperature. Sounds of tables crashing and bottles breaking came from above. A glance to his right revealed a stripped Selena lying tied to a bed. The bedside chest of drawers, barren space, and evidently used candles suggested this was a servant’s sleeping area. Selena let out a soft moan and whimper as she began coming to.<br><br>A male human popped his head out from behind one of the wine racks. The rest of his finely tuned body followed. He took a long swig from the bottle of red wine he was holding while eyeing the waking faerie. He turned his attention to Zilior.<br><br>“That’s a fine piece of virginal ass there, isn’t it?” The man goaded Zilior.<br><br>Selena roused herself from her groggy state, trying to take account of her current situation, but all she could think to do was yelling, “Grandpapa? Grandpapa?!”<br><br>The captor laughed maniacally and walked toward the bed. He sat beside Selena and brushed her bright blue hair from her delicate pale face. A look of terror sprouted on the girl’s features and she began to thrash violently in her tethers, realizing the naked state of her body. Running a hand down Selena’s form, cupping a dainty breast, he said, “Shhh… There’s no need to struggle. Your Grandpapa is in a much better place now. As for your fate…” The man’s hand continued down Selena’s body.<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div>Zilior felt a rage showing up as he saw the ruffian molest the girl's body.<br>'If you're a real man, untie me so I can beat the crap out of you!', Zilior shouted.<br>'I'm about to show this lovely lady how much of a man I really am!' The man replied, laughing.<br>Zilior struggled trying to get out of the chair. He cursed as it seemed a hopeless case.<br>'Hah!', the captor mocked Zilior in his attempt to get out.<br>He turned towards the faerie. 'Now sweetie, where were we?' <br>His hand grabbed her butt and harshly squeezed it, causing her to moan.<br>'Stop that...', sounded from behind the man.<br>'What did you say?', he said while still groping the girl.<br>Suddenly the man felt a stinging pain in his shoulder.<br>As he turned his head, he saw Zilior standing behind him. His hand was firmly holding the bandit's shoulder.<br>Not only that... smoke seemed to escape from underneath his hand. And then that smell... the scent of burning flesh. <br>'Ho..how did you...', The captor couldn't say more as he felt a fire sprouting in his shoulder.<br>He collapsed as the fire rapidly covered his entire body. For a whole minute he screamed and unsuccesfully tried to get up.<br>Finaly he gave up and died. His face wasn't recognizable anymore. <br>Gunk lied where his eyes used to lay and pieces of skull showed trough his skin which resembled suet.<br>A sigh sounded from Zilior. He clenched his fist and the fire stopped immediately.<br>'Are you alright Selena?'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 01:09:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next Morning Phaedra was up before the sun rose, and ready for off as its rays crept over the horizon.&nbsp; The cat was packed into a basket with some food, and she was finishing off tidying round making sure that everything was secure, when she suddenly remembered the pomegranate.&nbsp; <em>How stupid!&nbsp; I didn’t need to pack any food at all, I could just take the pomegranate and eat one seed every day. </em><br><br>She thought about it and decided that she wouldn’t unpack her supplies now, but would take those as well, and keep the pomegranate for when the food had gone.<br><br>“Come on then cat. You’re going on your holidays!”&nbsp; She hefted the basket onto her arm, and then her pack onto her shoulder, and taking one last look around her little cottage, she went out of the door, locking it behind herself.<br><br>She called at her neighbour’s and left the cat with her, reminding her that if she wasn’t back when things in the garden were ready for harvest, she should help herself.<br><br>A sense of deep apprehension filled her as she walked down the narrow winding road towards the town, as she really had no idea where she was going. She was relying on her Goddess to guide her, and was just thinking about that when she recognised the tree sapling at the side of the road.&nbsp; He just looked like any other tree lining the leafy lane, but she knew it was him.&nbsp; Leaves rustled and twigs clacked, as she neared.&nbsp; “Heeeellllloooo.”&nbsp; <br><br>“Hello again!&nbsp; I wonder if you can help me, again.”&nbsp; She didn’t wait for him to answer, but continued with her request.&nbsp; “ You gave me the map from the Goddess, but I don’t know where it is?&nbsp; I know it’s not near here, but I wondered if you could give me a clue, perhaps point me in the right direction.”<br><br>“Reeeedwooodddd&nbsp; foressssssssst.&nbsp; You&nbsp; Dryyyyyyyyyyyaddddddddd, usssssse oooooaaaakk&nbsp; treeeeeeeee!”&nbsp; There was more rustling of leaves, and then they fell still, and Phaedra knew that was the end of the conversation.&nbsp; <br><br>She walked on, pondering&nbsp; the little information she had been given as if it were a cryptic puzzle.&nbsp; [/i]”Redwood forest?”&nbsp; I’ve heard of that, I’m sure.&nbsp; Where have I heard of that?&nbsp; She racked her brain trying to remember then suddenly realised.&nbsp; It was a traveller that had come to the village he had been across a vast ocean, and a vast continent of land, and seen huge trees that he called redwoods.&nbsp; So she was going to need to travel a very long way.&nbsp; <em>”you Dryad, use oak tree?”&nbsp; Now what on earth could that mean?</em><br><br>She had to go through the forest the other side of the town, so she would find one of the mighty oaks, and see what happened there.&nbsp; She had always loved the oaks most of all the trees in the forest, and often found herself&nbsp; talking to them, telling them her problems, and visiting with them when she was especially happy.<br><br>It wasn’t long before she had made her way through the small town, and the trees of the forest were in sight.&nbsp; She could make out the outline of the huge oaktree that was at the centre of the forest, above all of the other trees, and felt it was only right that she went to that one.&nbsp; She would stop and eat some of her food when she got there, as by now it was getting towards lunchtime, and she was beginning to feel hungry.&nbsp; A cool drink of fresh spring water, some fresh bread and a little cheese, and she would feel better, she was sure.<br><br>She sat on the ground with her back against the huge trunk of the tree as she ate.&nbsp; When she was finished, she scattered some crumbs for the birds and other wildlife, and gave thanks to the tree for giving her somewhere to sit in shade.<br><br>She stood and placed her palms on the trunk of the tree.&nbsp; She didn’t know what to do, but the tree sapling had said use the oak, so she asked the tree.&nbsp; “How do I get to the Redwood forest, mighty oak?&nbsp; The Goddess has given me a map, but I need to be somewhere near to follow the directions on the map.&nbsp; How do I use you to help me to get there?”&nbsp; <br><br>She didn’t hear a voice, but she suddenly felt compelled to climb into the tree.&nbsp; She slung her pack up over one of the branches, and then pulled herself up onto the lowest branch.&nbsp; She needed to get higher, and so climbed up another branch, then another.&nbsp; There was a very large almost flat branch which made a comfortable platform where she sat, wondering what she was doing there.&nbsp; She thought of the map, and where she needed to go, and wondered why she was sitting in an oak tree, in England, when she needed to be halfway across the world.&nbsp; <br><br>Her head began to feel very strange, and she was going very dizzy.&nbsp; Her world unlocked, and it was if she were spinning out of control, her whole being moving and flowing, and she was screaming, as the spinning became faster and faster, she had to close her eyes as what appeared to be green lights were flashing past her.&nbsp; That made her feel worse so she opened them again.<br><br>After what seemed like an age, the spinning began to slow, and gradually she began to feel as if she were human again.&nbsp; She was clutching the branch of the tree, and her bag, but as she looked around, she realised she was no longer in the tree in the forest near her home.&nbsp; She was in an oak tree, but it was a slightly different oak tree, with deeper green leaves.&nbsp; The forest around looked very different, and it was much warmer where she was now.<br><br>Phaedra didn’t know how it had happened, but she was convinced that she was now within the confines of the map that the Goddess had given her, and when she worked out exactly where, she would be able to walk to where Persephone wanted her.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightBlade</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 02:06:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After helping her to her feet he said "Your welcome Madam". He smiled as he watched her brush off the dust form her elegant dress. After a bit he could not help but stare into her eyes. "Im sorry, sometimes I just dont know my own speed" he laughed sleeplessly.&nbsp; He wondered who this girl was and another question he had was what was she doing this far away from town.<br><br>Once he saw her extend her arm in a greeting he gladly took it. "hello there Katherine, im called Elic" he smiled. After he heard her offer the memories of Hermes request flooded his mind. "Well I must get to Redwood a friend of mine is waiting for me there." he said with sadness in his voice. Than a thought hit him. "Well im pretty sure I can wait one day, to spend an evening with a lovely lady as you would be worth the wait" he smiled 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 09:09:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Aleka Softlystepping (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199655#msg4199655)</div><br>“Master Giant?” The cracking rocks turned into the sound of a million rocks toppling atop each other as the huge rock giant grabbed his sides and laughed. With his massive arms out of the way, Aleka can now see the glowing soft blue light coming from the core of the giant. "Crumb not a Master Giant, silly Cat. Crumb a rock golem. Name is Crumble but you call me Crumb."<br><br>The rock golem plopped on the ground in front of Aleka. The force of such an action made tiny spider cracks in all directions and bounced Aleka at least a foot in the air. “Crumb has seen many forests. What name of forest you seek?”<br><br><div align="center">(http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x272/kharid/Golem-2.jpg)</div><br><div align="center">Arya Angelicus (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200851#msg4200851)</div><br>Gideon watched Arya intensely from his relaxed pose, his elbows on the chair’s armrests and his fingers making a temple over his chest. When she finished speaking and rose, Gideon raised his brows as he thought about his next course of action. Intrigued and deciding to follow her, he grabbed and drained his wineglass. He rose to his feet, throwing some coins on the table to pay for the wine and tipping the waitress handsomely.<br><br>He watched the priestess’s butt sway back and forth all the way to the entrance of her room. He knew this was the reaction she was going for and it worked brilliantly. Inwardly the man was salivating by the time they arrived at her room. Once she’d gotten the door unlocked, Gideon wanted to run in, slam the door, and throw her on the bed. He showed restraint, though. He allowed Arya to walk through the door and glided in afterward. He paused before shutting the door with force.<br><br>Getting her attention, Gideon held her eyes captivated while slowly unbuttoning his blouse. He didn’t remove the blouse, however. He walked over to Arya languidly, his intense blue eyes never leaving hers, and cupped her face, pulling her close. With the better lighting, closer proximity, and more loosely button clothing, Arya could now see the golden myrtle leaf necklace around Gideon’s tanned neck. Gideon paused with his face right over hers, allowing his hot breath to hit her lips in anticipation. His mouth opened and he caught her lower lip in his teeth a moment before catching the rest of her mouth up in a passionate embrace.<br><br><div align="center">(http://store.metmuseum.org/content/ebiz/themetstore/invt/09027418/09027418_01_m.jpg)&nbsp; &nbsp;(http://fc07.deviantart.com/fs19/f/2007/226/a/b/Jared_Leto_by_frombrennatolast.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arioch</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 16:28:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4254985#msg4254985">Quote from: Narianna on 13-02-2011, 13:09:11</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><strong><span class="bbc_u">Drache’s Dream</span><br><br>Drache found himself standing in the middle of the battlefield that had changed his life. The dead bodies were all about his feet and the late night mist swirled the edges. The moonlight shown down and revealed a dark figure walking toward him. The man was clad in black and rose golden armor with a long black cloak. His loose long black hair bounced as he strode with a wide determined gait.<br><br>Vultures circled overhead and let out a loud cry as Ares approached Drache. Ares grabbed hold of a handle and rested a foot atop an impaled body. Drache immediately recognized the body of his father. Ares pulled his spear free of the man with a wet tearing crunch sound as the bone and skin let go. His eyes were both menacing and vicious and he waited, staring at Drache, as Drache dealt with the emotions roiling through him.<br><br>“Use it,” was all Ares said for a moment. “Take those feelings with you and go to the Redwood Forest in California. You will need those emotions for your quest. Learn to harness them and use them in battle,” Ares’s voice was riddled with wisdom, sincerity, and harshness.<br><br>One of the circling vultures came from above and Ares held out an arm. The vulture lighted on his arm, its yellow beak and beady black eyes turned toward Drache as it cocked its head to focus on him. It stretched its long red neck and let out a screech before spreading its golden tipped black wings and fluttering to Drache’s shoulder. Ares nodded in a gesture of presentation, denoting the vulture as a gift.<br><br>Ares balled a fist and placed it over Drache’s heart saying “Use it” in that firm ton once more before turning and walking away, leaving Drache alone on the battlefield with his new vulture.</strong><br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>With a start Drache woke. He had not had a dream he could remember in a long time. There was still a slight ache on the side of his head, a remnant of the battle. Only yesterday he had found his father dead, perhaps the blow and the memory was causing his dream. But to dream of Ares, that was odd. Had he still been with the tribe Drache would have spoken to the shaman. He often had dreams and told the tribe about them, explaining their meaning. Old Salbei was no longer. Like the other in the village, all those years ago, he was dead. Eviscerated and impaled upon a spear, his head removed. Whomever had attacked the village had feared his power and removed his head lest he heal. That is what Drache had been taught, always remove the head of a shaman or they can heal and unleash their abilities and fury. <br><br>He stretched and watched the light rain fall outside the simple shelter he created. Sitting up he rubbed his face pondering what he would do. Turning his head he was going to grab his chain mail shirt when he saw it. The sight causing him to jump back, "Be gone! I am not dead!" The vulture was watching him and did not do more than cock its head at his words. <em>What is this?</em> He thought as he reached for his axe. Using the butt end he poked at the bird and it moved out into the rain but did not fly off, "Why are you here, bird?" It then turned its head once again and the image came back to him, it was the same look as the vulture in his dream, the head cocked just so before it stretched its long red neck and let out a screech, just like in the dream.&nbsp; Quickly Drache dressed, pulled the hood of his cloak over his head and rushed out of the shelterk knocking it over as he departed. He turned back and watched as the bird spread its wings and flew after him. Drache ran, weaving and swinging his axe to try and drive off the bird.<br><br>Eventually, he gave in. the bird had simply kept after him, now, as Drache held his axe against one shoulder the bird was perched atop the blades.&nbsp; Catching his shadow when the sun broke through the clouds he laughed at the image. It was like a specter of death, his cloak pulled up and a vulture perched atop his weapon. "You may help me yet, bird. No roving band of thieves would wish to attack me as I look now. No, they would fear you too much." He kept walking for another hour before he stopped to rest. The vulture jumping from the axe and moving about in search of something to nibble on. Watching it, Drache thought about the significance. If the dream was true then he was a champion, chosen by Ares for some task. He thought back to Marrund, and how he joked with Drache about the axe and chain mail, "You've been chosen by the Fates for some task. In time, you will learn what it is. That is why only you can carry that weapon and armor. Only you, Tree Trunk." Now, here he sat with a vulture sent from Ares himself. Ares, that came to him in a dream. Never had he heard of anyone but Salbei, the shaman, having a dream of meaning. Perhaps this meant he was the last of his people. The only one to remember a tribe time would forget.<br><br>There was no time to dwell on his past. His father had taught him that life was war. A constant struggle to survive. Dwell on the past and you would be dead. The gods chose why things happened, we only go along and fight the war, day in and day out. Standing he looked at the vulture, "Come, bird. We must find a port city. We have a long trip to take and I cannot swim that far." Without waiting for it he began to walk toward the West. He knew there was a port city in that direction and he could ask at some town. Hopefully, the bird wouldn't scare anyone and they would answer him. Of course, he could always force someone to tell him. The choice would be that person's, Drache did not care. He was on a quest given him by Ares, the one god that understood his people.<br><br>It was three days later that he reached the port city. Drache had never been in such a large place, the number of people, the size of the buildings, it was a strange sight and he could not understand the need. Many of the people ignored him, those that managed to look at him gawked at the sight of a man with a vulture. A scowl was usually enough to drive them off, other, he ignored as he made his way through the busy streets.&nbsp; For nearly an hour he walked through the city, the roads twisting and turning until he found the docks.&nbsp; Once there, it wasn't long before he found a ship willing to take him to Crete where he could find a larger ship that would carry him to where he wanted to go. They would leave in the morning.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AngelsDemonsCode</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 17:07:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><em>Island of Crete, Antheia has she realized that her home is being pillaged by pirates.</em></strong><br><hr><hr>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>The forger was scared when the girl closed her eyes - Was she dead? - but breathed a sigh of relief when she noticed the girl's chest rise up and down rhythmically while she grimaced or whimpered in pain every now and then. Without a moment to hesitate, she hurried to her home and quickly climbed through the window to make getting in easier. Closing the window behind her, blotting it shut with the steel and iron bolts she placed herself, she went to her bed room to lay the girl on the bed while getting the kit.<br><br>With the girl on her bed, unconscious but alive, she checked on her vitals to see if there was anything she needed to do for the poor child. No was the relieving result. The girl was battered and a bit bruised but alright. It was mostly from shock and surprise from today's events and she couldn't blame the child for being so. The village was dying and she knew the only way for them to survive was to escape. The boats for Crete were most likely burning so that meant she actually had to steal. But how could she do that? She... of course. But could it? Will it? There was only one way to find out. She stood up and took her cloak with her as she rose up, determination set into her face.<br><br>Leaving the girl in her room, she got her clasp and walked up to a mirror. She had a plan for this situation but for it to work she had to know if her clasp really did grant on invisibility. Putting it on one end of her cloak that she now donned, she quickly tied it and closed her eyes just to prepare herself. If it didn't work, another plan can and will be hatched. Antheia hoped there would be no need for that. A moment passed... another... Funny. She didn't feel any different than usual. No ripples or shivers of power.<br><br>Curious, she opened her eyes carefully. She could still see, that was good. She then looked down and saw... <em>nothing</em>. Her hands, where she <em>knew</em> there were supposed to be, were gone! It worked! It worked! Her clasp of invisibility worked. She looked at the mirror at last and was shocked to see nothing there in the space where she occupied, besides the faint outlines of her eyes and blue irises for some reasons. It worried her, being able to see her eyes but she reasoned that no one else will unless they were actually looking for a pair of floating, faint eyeballs in the burning village. Very unlikely.<br><br>Without a second to spare, Antheia left her home but not before locking the doors from inside to protect the girl. If anything happened to her, she prayed to the Gods and Goddesses to at least protect an innocent lamb. The forgery/home was well supplied and had many weapons or items for the girl at her disposal. But a fortress was not what she needed. She needed a boat to escape and that was why she was heading to the village. If she could sneak past them all, she could steal a boat, drive it to where the coastal shore of where her home was and escape with the girl with others as well. The forger left a note besides the girl at her bed, instructing her to stay inside and to not open the door unless it was her no matter what. Antheia ran down the hill, hoping that the destruction that she would soon see would not be too heartbreaking.<br><br><hr><br><div class="floatleft">(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_M3vSUeszLWY/RtRuB6jcJaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/jF9DSrD8C-A/nm_greece_fire1_070828_ssh.jpg)</div>The village was in chaos.<br><br>Antheia wanted to cry at the sight of the lush green valleys being burnt away or the sight of her fellow villages being caught and killed or raped or enslaved by these barbarians from other lands. Her heart ache but she moved forward, desperate to find some sort of transportation that could take her and the girl and anyone else she could round up out of there. But the sounds, the sights, and the sensations she felt as death and misery reigned was just too much for the forger. <br><br>The once tranquil village fell into quickly fell chaos as the pirates attacked and the few villagers who knew how to fight attacked back. Villagers, though valiant in their efforts, were outnumbered by the monsters and so quickly did they dwindle. Antheia noticed with morbid watchfulness that those who were still standing, wounds aside, were using her shields and swords that she guaranteed to them that will never break no matter what damage they took. <br><br>True to her word, the weapons were still in fighting condition. Even coated in blood and gore, she could see that they were in pristine condition. <br><br>The people who could not fight took the opportunity and noble sacrifices of the others to attempt to escape or help others escape. Women were running with items, clothing, elderly, invalid or children in their arms. Men were escorting their families, urging them to flee faster. Everyone was in all sorts of directions and paths as more pirates chased them like this was some sort of game to them. Fires were being set and extinguished. People were running, chasing and fleeing in all sorts of directions. Utter chaos.<br><br>Sometimes, too many times for Antheia's liking, a woman or a man was caught and... and... Those memories would always haunt Antheia, she knew it and why shouldn't it? These things that were being done to other people. It was inhumane. Just the epitome of cruelty and it filled her with such outrage that she wanted to do something. Her body was screaming for action and how she wanted to! Just walking past them.<br><br>It almost got her endangered as well. She was passing be one of them who was too... <em>preoccupied</em> with one of the women and the sight of this leering animal infuriated her. The girl, long dead from the loss of blood when he cut her throat, should at least have the dignity of respectful death but he couldn't even give her that! Antheia saw the sword that was poking out of his scabbard and her fingers twitched. Her feet moved just a bit to the monster's directions, her eyes on the sword and just imagining what it would be like if she could pull it from him and-<br><br><em>Reason</em>, a voice whispered in her ear. It sounded so much like her God. Could it... <em>Reason and rationality, Daughter of Crete. Do you truly think you can fight against this man even with the stealth of your cloak at your side?</em><br><br>She thought about it and, reluctantly, no. Even if she got the sword, even with all of her time in the forgery, she had little strength compared to those lumbering mass of muscles. There was no way that she could fight him, let alone any other of these barbarians if they noticed one of their own being attacked by a woman. Gritting her teeth, she took a step back and resumed her careful walk to the shores. Sneaking meant one had to be quiet, silent and ruthless. Nothing must stand between one and their goals. It meant she had to ignore many of them as she struggled to get to one of the boats. Even if they screamed and begged for mercies to anyone as the Gods and Goddesses knows what was happening to them, even if it was a shrill cry or a final gasp of life. <br><br>Tears formed in her eyes and she had to tell herself it was from the thick fumes and smoke of the fires, and that it was not the sight of her friends and fellow villagers being killed and taken away like cattle to other ships. She noticed another ship coming to the shore and she sourly thought more pirates but did nothing about it, eying one unoccupied or unguarded boat now. It was large enough to carry supplies and people well and seemed easy to steer. If she could get to it. Long as she stayed quiet, avoided bumping into people and such, she could get to the boat and sail off to the coastal shore without anyone knowing what was going on.<br><br>Logic, she always ruled herself with that and this was one of those dire times. Her head must be on her shoulders now. Antheia knew she had to first secure a surefire way of getting out of the Island before doing any rescuing. She hoped she won't be too late.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 19:55:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>Selena’s eyes went wide with terror as she saw the man go up in flames. The smell of burning flesh would have made her stomach turn if it hadn’t sunk so low in her body. Her already pale features paled to a sickly white and she let out a shriek in horror.<br><br>After Zilior had finished burning the man, he approached Selena. She clamped her mouth shut but was still trembling from the sight. Somewhere deep down, Selena knew Zilior was a good person and was saving her life but she couldn’t erase the picture of the burning man from her mind. She tried her hardest to back away from Zilior, though her arms and legs were still tied. She huddled as close as she could to the wall.<br><br><div align="center">(http://img3.visualizeus.com/thumbs/10/12/02/beautiful,blue,hair,girl-c419f238112ea3e8191187c78d207844_h.jpg)</div><br><div align="center">Elic Stemis (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199948#msg4199948)</div><br>“Oh how wonderful!” Katherine exclaimed. “Listen, I live just right over there,” she indicates a fairly large log cabin, the proceeds to lead the way.<br><br>When they got to the front door, she let them both in. From over top of the stairwell next to the door leapt a large grey canine man. He was clad in a tan loin cloth, with a dagger at his belt. He seemed to want to surprise the lovely woman, but instead landed with a surprised look on his face.<br><br>“Lars!” Katherine exclaimed, a dainty hand going to her throat. “Why, you just scared the life out of me! Good heavens! Stop this foolishness at once and go ready the table. We have a nice young man here for lunch,” Katherine paused to indicate Elic next to her, the curls of her hair bobbing with the motion of her head. “Make sure all the servants are on their best behavior for our guest…”<br><br><div align="center">(http://images.halloweencostumeideas.com/marie-antoinette-wig.jpg)&nbsp; &nbsp;(http://fc01.deviantart.net/fs23/f/2007/311/8/e/A_feral_wolf_type_guy____by_Hyptosis.jpg)</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 20:28:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Arya knew she had Gideon under her thumb when she looked back briefly to see the man following her up to her well appointed room she had managed to nab after applying her charms to the inn keeper.&nbsp; Gods she loved being her.&nbsp; With a swagger in her stride, the priestess turned after the door was shut behind them, admiring the man's strength and restraint in equal parts.&nbsp; The kiss that followed heated the elf's blood considerably, making her quite damp between her luscious thighs as she savored the man's taste, and inhaled deeply of his own scent as she had done for him already back in the dining hall.&nbsp; Wrapping her arms around his shoulders and back, she broke the kiss and ran her lips up the right side of his neck and sucked upon his earlobe before purring into it.&nbsp; Taking a step back, she turned them so his back was facing the bed.&nbsp; Moving quickly, Arya roughly shoved Gideon so he was laying on his back on the bed before climbing on top of him, smiling wickedly before she kissed his exposed chest, her breasts pressed against him as she unbuttoned the rest of his blouse before opening it.<br><br>She didn't go further though, and instead motioned for him to stay there.&nbsp; Her eyes lit up as she decided to put on a bit of a show for him.&nbsp; There was a music player in the room, an old fashion record player, but it was enchanted to play any song that was on a list behind it tacked to the wall.&nbsp; Selecting one she wanted, Arya turned to the man so he would get a good view of her every curve before she started to undress before him, revealing one curve of her body at a time in time to the music.&nbsp; Walking over to him as she did, and picking up the wine bottle on the floor she had put down along the way, Arya opened it and casually tossed the lid away.&nbsp; Standing on the bed a moment later, most of her black dress already undone, she put her foot up to his face and offered her toes for him to suck upon as she drank from the bottle, more of it running down her body and down her leg she offered and directly into his mouth than actually down her own throat before she pulled the bottle away, getting quite the rush from teasing him so much.&nbsp; The rest she was going to save for later, and she took a step back and put the bottle down, turning so her butt was in his face before she casually and slowly removed the rest of her outfit, letting it pile on the floor in a neat little heap.&nbsp; Standing in the nude, Arya laid out beside the man, posing for him on her side as she ran her hands across his chest, her smile never wavering a single bit.&nbsp; "What did you think?"<br><br>From Dusk Till Dawn - Salma Hayek Table Dance (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYxxgvA8rlM#)<br><br>((Inspiration for this scene comes from Salma Hayek's character from Dusk Til Dawn.))
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Skyrider</strong> on <strong>14-02-2011, 21:25:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After several hours of flying over the waters, Anthimus suddenly began to sense the powers of Death beginning to grow.&nbsp; Not just humans and animals, but the very killing of mother nature as an intense heat surged through his body.&nbsp; While he knew that sensations like this were though uncommon, still familiar, he couldn't help but notice something different on what he could sense.&nbsp; The feeling was almost similar to what he felt after having his dream.&nbsp; Something was telling him that this was not a coincidence, and that it was something worth observing.&nbsp; Quickly, he altered his course and headed north over to the European shores, increasing his speed to the point of breaking the sound barrier in order to get there fast.<br><br>Within an hour, Anthimus soon arrived at the island of Crete.&nbsp; The first thing he saw was a port village engulfed in chaos and flames.&nbsp; People frantically running around either fleeing for their lives or pillaging and plundering the innocent people.&nbsp; Anthimus was a bit overwhelmed at the sensation of so much death happening.&nbsp; The only other time he felt like this was when he killed the villagers back in his homeland.<br><br>Placing his hood over his head, Anthimus made his landing right at the village square and retracted his wings back inside him.&nbsp; The people were in so much of a frenzy they didn't even notice him landing.&nbsp; Calmly, he began to walk in the opposite direction the scared villagers were running until he encountered about 7 of the pirates that were chasing them.&nbsp; Without even a single word, one of the pirates charged right at him with his sword raised.&nbsp; As he came slashing down, Anthimus easily dodged his blade and countered with a back kick right into his back, causing the pirate to fly several feet into the air.<br><br>The other pirates were a bit shocked to see what happened, but showed no signs of falling back as the began to surround Anthimus.&nbsp; Showing no signs of concern or fear, Anthimus calmly stood his ground as the pirates started coming after him.&nbsp; With every strike they came at him, he easily blocked and dodged their attacks and quickly countering them.&nbsp; With one of the attacks, Anthimus managed to even grab one of the pirates and throw him right at 2 others.&nbsp; The fight looked more like Anthimus was just toying with the pirates as the all kept on failing on landing even a single strike at him.<br><br>Moments later, with only 2 of the 7 pirates still standing, another pirate suddenly leaped into the battle.&nbsp; He hulk of a man standing well over 7 feet tall and ripped from head to toe.&nbsp; He came leaping right at Anthimus using an anchor as a blunt axe.&nbsp; As the weapon was about to make impact, Anthimus raised his hand as it quickly reverted to its dragon form and caught the anchor right in midair, the impact causing the ground beneath Anthimus to cave in a bit and send a shock wave that spread across the square.&nbsp; The massive pirate was literally stunned to see that his brute strength was being held back by a figure only 1/3 his size.&nbsp; Before he could even retract, Anthimus counted with a Dragon Claw Palm strike with his free hand.&nbsp; The the impact was so great, it was heard like a loud gunshot, sending the pirate flaying to the ground with a large bruise forming on his stomach as he coughed up a large amount of blood.&nbsp; As Anthimus turned to look at the other pirates, the quickly dropped their swords and ran as fast as they could from him, screaming and calling Anthimus a Demon.<br><br><strong>&lt;Attn. Antheia&gt;</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nooblet</strong> on <strong>15-02-2011, 06:06:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Gerik; Battling with pirates on Crete</strong></span></div>______________________________<br><br>&nbsp; As Gerik and the other fighters leapt off the Sea's Wrath and rushed into the fray, Gerik couldnt help but feel a pang of sorrow at the cruelty the fates had shown this village. Angered, Gerik rushed ahead of his fellows, taking a street differing from the rest of the crew. Gerik bellowed out a roar as he rushed at a group of the brigands.<br>&nbsp; The closest one turned, swinging his blade in the same motion. Gerik brought up his trident, holding it horizontally, to block the strike. Without missing a beat Gerik put one foot forward and gave a twist, hurling the pirate to the ground. Before he could stand Gerik had plunged his trident into his back, ripping it free quickly as he turned to face the rest of the pirates.<br>&nbsp; A second pirate ran at Gerik, axe raised to strike down hard. Gerik stepped forward to meet the attack, his trident scraping the ground as he swung it in a vertical slash, ripping through the man's flesh quite easily. The pirate staggered back, dropping his axe and feebly trying to keep his guts from spilling out. Gerik paid the man no mind as he spun, swinging his trident in a wide arc that laced accross a pirate's throat, tearing it open.<br>&nbsp; A scream caught Gerik's attention, diverting his eyes to just beyond his assailants. A woman was running wildly as a pirate gained on her. Without hesitation Gerik hefted his trident and stepped forward, hurling the weapon. The chasing pirate was propelled forward, crashing to the ground with the missle justting forth from his back. The man feebly tried to remove the item before finally going limp.<br>&nbsp; As the last three pirates advanced, run lunged forward with a quick strike. Gerik's reflexes proved easily a match as he drew out both of his sabers in a cross, blocking the strike. He kicked the man away, lunging to the left and burying one of his sabers into a pirate's chest. He wrenched his blade free, using the other to deflect a spear thrust.<br>&nbsp; Gerik's body was aflame, his muscles burning from the exertion of fighting. Sweat poored over his body, causing his clothing to stick to him. However, Gerik showed no signs of slowing as he leapt forward suddenly, kicking the spear to the side and slicing open the pirate's throat. Spinning, Gerik plunged both sabers into the last pirate's chest as he had prepared to plunge his own blade into Gerik's back.<br>&nbsp; Gerik stood still for a few moments, regaining his breath as he gulped huge mouthfulls of air. After his breathing had returned to normal he wiped the sabers clean on a fallen pirate's shirt, and resheathed them. He strode over to his trident, pulling it free with a wet ripping sound. He hefted his trident onto his shoulder, stopping to take a look at where he was to get his bearings.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Xilian</strong> on <strong>15-02-2011, 20:53:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4259562#msg4259562">Quote from: Narianna on 14-02-2011, 19:55:26</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>Selena’s eyes went wide with terror as she saw the man go up in flames. The smell of burning flesh would have made her stomach turn if it hadn’t sunk so low in her body. Her already pale features paled to a sickly white and she let out a shriek in horror.<br><br>After Zilior had finished burning the man, he approached Selena. She clamped her mouth shut but was still trembling from the sight. Somewhere deep down, Selena knew Zilior was a good person and was saving her life but she couldn’t erase the picture of the burning man from her mind. She tried her hardest to back away from Zilior, though her arms and legs were still tied. She huddled as close as she could to the wall.<br><br><div align="center">(http://img3.visualizeus.com/thumbs/10/12/02/beautiful,blue,hair,girl-c419f238112ea3e8191187c78d207844_h.jpg)</div></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div>Zilior hesitated as he saw the scared look in the faerie's eyes.<br>'It's all over now, there is no need to worry', He said, realizing that it may seem odd coming from the man who just burned someone to death.<br>As he looked down and saw the girl's torn clothes he realised that she was still naked. Right now he could... No! Definetly not! He wouldn't even consider it!<br>He took off his mantle and threw it towards Selena. 'You should cover yourself up...'<br><br>Zilior sat down and waited for the girl to think everything over. He knew this whole situation might be prety hard on her. <br>The door was brutally opened and a drunk man entered the room almost falling down the stairs. 'Yo Brund.. brunda... What was your name again? Brend, why are you keeping away that fine pussy for me? You had your time, now it's my turn, okay?' The man paused and stared at Zilior. 'Brenda, you've changed man! What have you done with your... face?'<br>Zilior stood up and answered the drunkard, 'Come closer buddy. I'll tell you what I've done with it, but it's a secret you see.'<br>'Ah yes ofcourse! I don't like it when people know how I changed my face either.' The drunken thug shuffled down the stairs almost falling a few times. He aproached Zilior and bended over with his ear towards him. 'All right you tell me now.'<br>With a strong hit Zilior took the guy down. He had passed out as you could tell from his snoring. 'Selena, I know you might be scared of me right now, but we should really leave. I don't know how many thugs are still inside.'
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>16-02-2011, 21:02:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Strange days<br><br>The mid-day sun splintered through the forest canopy, giving precious little light to navigate by as Zedd walked along a long-forgotten trail. Branches snapped and underbrush crackled beneath his boots, protesting his careless and heavy steps. He unslung his pack as he walked and dug out a thick waterskin tied to a slender cord, with a carved piece of bone plugged into its spout. Zedd stopped a moment, pulled out the stopper and drank his fill, then replaced the skin in his pack and continued on. Birds chirruped and called to one another high above the boughs, way up where the sunlight wasn't such a rare commodity. And just as the serving girl back in Crescent City had promised, a soupy white fog hung implacably in the air, clinging to the trees and to the forest floor and to Zedd as he moved through it.<br><br>There was considerably less traffic at ground level. Every so often Zedd stretched out with Artemis' gift, looking for any trace of wildlife or potential dangers nearby, but each time drew back without success. Even the insects, it seemed, had vanished from the forest, leading Zedd to wonder if this was indeed some manner of holy place, or perhaps the gods had only recently emptied the forest for their purposes, or even if the woods were teeming with living things that were simply intent on avoiding him specifically. Whatever the case, he found it very unnerving, and kept his knife sheathed but within easy reach.<br><br>As he walked, he thought back to the day before, his evening in Crescent City. During the fight between the two land owners, the serving girl had seemingly vanished into thin air before telling him what he'd wanted to know about the Redwood Forest. Before the fight could erupt into a full-scale brawl, the local magistrate arrived and compelled the men to accompany him to the town's holding cells, where they presumably spent the remainder of the evening. Zedd tried in vain to cadge a few crumbs of information from some of the other diners and workers, but none were particulary forthcoming. Most responded with a wordless grunt, and a few went so far as to snarl before returning their attention to their startlingly greasy meals. Truly, the villagers' warmth was remarkably touching, and Zedd resolved not to abuse their fine hospitality. After finishing his coffee and dessert, he immediately hit the road again and continued on his way out of town.<br><br>Fortunately, as Zedd passed the village's border he spied a travelers' waystation on the road ahead of him. Nearing the station, he debated silently whether to stop and ask directions or perhaps request a map or simply continue on and hope blind chance would guide his path. Moments later as he reached the small hitching post outside the door, blind chance intervened.<br><br>"Heya, bo'ah. You dere, Man Passin' By wit' de Fiyah in Ya Eye! Come up and speak ta ol' Marley, tell ya an't'ing ya wan' know." A voice called out, stopping Zedd dead in his tracks. He looked around a moment until he spotted its source, an old man so black he nearly blended in with the charred oak steps he sat on. Barefoot he was, and clad only in a pair of ragged long pants. He had his head thrown back, a snow white beard pointed at the sky, and his gnarled and age-twisted body rocked on its own to a rythym known only to it. Zedd looked on a moment longer, gave a shrug and approached the old man, slinging his pack onto the ground at the steps and joining him up on the stoop.<br><br>"How are the skies, old timer?" Zedd asked with a sidelong glance at the rocking man. He brought up a knee and propped his arm upon it, waiting for a reply. Not long to wait. The old man's head snapped down and his eyes popped open, sightless and milky white, but he wore the look of a man who Saw. Zedd felt almost naked under the blind man's gaze, and shifted a little on his step.<br><br>"Dem skies ain' well, bruddah. Not well a'tall. Dere a fearsome wind blowin' roun' de worl', an' de Pale Mon an' him horse is ridin' fast among us. I an' I been waitin' on you for a while, bo'ah. De Shadow Walker, de Eyes o' de Worl'. Him called up by de Keepers ah Zion, dem Mos' Magics for ta walk de road ta salvation. But do'ahn tink ya gwan walk de road alone, bo'ah. Ya not de only mon called up by de Keepers. And de Keepers not de only ones callin'. Powerful lions ya gwan meet, bruddah, and treach'rous serpents. But it's irie, shadow mon. Ya can walk wit' de lions, for ya share dere heart. Ya gwan meet de firs' one soon, in de shadows o' red giants. Uddahs gwan come lat'r. Bes' be polite, bruddah...but do'ahn be no fool," the old man finished with a sly grin, his voice deceptively strong and hale.<br><br>"Hey! Marley, if you scare off another one'a my customers I'm gonna torque yer hide, ya hear me you old coot?!" Another voice, deep and rough, boomed from inside the station. Zedd stood up just in time to see a huge, hulking blonde figure squeeze its way through the open doorway. He had just enough time to realize two facts: the figure was a woman, and she was easily the biggest, most muscular person he'd ever laid eyes on. "Well, hey there, traveler! Welcome to Big Berta's Tradin' Post! Anything you need, we got it, and if we ain't got it we can get it! I'm Big Berta, and if you're in the market for anything -- and I mean <em>anything </em>-- you just let me know!"<br><br>All this was said with a smile, and accompanied with a pat on the shoulder so hard that Zedd was nearly driven through the wooden porch like a nail beneath a hammer. As he staggered under the assault of Berta's welcome, he glanced back down at Marley and saw the old fellow had apparently fallen asleep, his eyes closed and his head once again thrown backward, beard skyward. "Aw, don't pay him no mind, mister. Just an old codger likes to make out like some kinda prophet, gets a kick outta scarin' the locals and the tourists. So, you look like a man on his way somewhere. Got everything you need, do ya? Cuz iff'n ya don't, we can sure outfit you!"<br><br>"Ah, well actually, I could use a map, if you've got--" Zedd started to say, but was almost immediately cut off. "Maps? Why sure, we've got maps! I've got maps and atlases and travel guides for just about every place on Earth, why hells I can even get you a few of Mount Olympus iff'n that's whatch'er after!" Berta said, her trademark enthusiasm all but exploding out of her. She wasted no time in ushering Zedd into the store, grabbing his wrist and dragging him along behind her like some rag doll as she squeezed her burly frame back inside.<br><br>Inside the waystation, the air was cool and stale. The scent of freshly whittled wood wafted through the room, mingled with healing lotions and herbal cure packs. Trinkets and charms lined the first few shelves, extolling the virtues and promising the favor of nearly every god from Apollo to Zeus and back again. Further in hung packaged tarps and tents, sheets of cured leather, fur-lined coats and various and sundry other articles of clothing. On a shelf right up next to the counter sat row after row of so-called 'enchanted' knick-knacks whose only magical blessing appeared to be the ability to not fall apart until someone paid money for them. All of this and more Zedd only caught sight of for a moment, before Berta hauled him into a back room and began rifling through a couple of very large cedar chests.<br><br>"So, maps! Where ya goin', and how many do you need? I've got maps for California, Nevada, the Utah and Montana territories, I've got some for Hawaii, let's see here, here's one for New Mexico, this one's pretty much the whole southern half of Canada, and this is, actually I don't even know what this is or what it's doing in here, and here are some language translation manuals, we've got Spanish, French, Italian, Elvish, Gnomish, Orcish (don't know why anyone would want that for, not like an Orc ever had anything to say worth hearing), oh and here are some magical maps, show where your friends and loved ones are and how they're faring, very useful--" As Berta continued digging through the chests, Zedd stole a moment to catch his breath. If Berta was married, Zedd either admired her husband for his dauntless bravery -- or wondered just how many of the gods the poor bastard had pissed off.<br><br>"Uh, ma'am...Ma'am! I just need a map for the Redwood Forest. It's very important, and I have to get there as soon as possible. I, er...I have an appointment with...someone. Can you tell me how far away it is?" Zedd said, finally managing to get a word in as Berta stopped to refill her obviously massive lungs.<br><br>At the words 'Redwood Forest', Berta stopped stock still and looked wonderingly at Zedd for a few moments. Apparently, he'd found the magic words to render the irrepressible Berta speechless. It didn't last very long, of course, but Zedd had a feeling he'd just accomplished something rather impressive; a small part of him felt very pleased with himself.<br><br>"Gee, mister, I'm awful sorry, but I don't have any maps of the forest. Don't really know why; nobody ever felt bothered to make one, I suppose. Most folks don't even go in there, anymore; they say a few hundred years ago, Elves and Fae used to live in the woods, but they started disappearing, and then Humans just didn't go in there anymore, and it's just always kinda been that way, you know? But iff'n you want, I can tell you how to get there, you're not too far from it at all, really. You just take the path a little further north, and then the path will fork and there'll be a signpost, you can't miss it. Just take the eastern path, and it'll take you all the way through to the other side of the woods. Well, I guess it should, ain't been no travelers on it for so long, it's probably growed up something awful, but the trail should still be there. You sure you wanna go that way though, mister? Like I said, it's been a long while since anyone's ventured in there."<br><br>Zedd gave a friendly smile and nodded. "I'm sure, ma'am. Like I said, it's important. Thank you for your time, Berta. And, give Marley my thanks as well." "Marley? Pfft, don't know that old fart's ever done anything worth thanks, but I'll sure tell him." Zedd smiled again and gave a small salute as he turned and left the waystation. Marley was gone from his step when Zedd made it back outside, and there was no sign of him in any direction. At the bottom of the steps, he scooped his pack back up and continued on his journey.<br><br>Berta's directions had proven solid. For the rest of the day, Zedd had walked the main road until nearly sunset, when he'd found the signpost and the fork. He moved off of the path a short ways and cleared away a sleeping space in a hollowed log, made camp and almost immediately fell asleep. The next morning, a little after dawn, after a quick breakfast of some jerky and lukewarm water, Zedd returned to the road and started making his way east. Very soon, the trees started growing bigger; by mid-morning there was no doubt that he'd found the Redwood Forest. <br><br>Now, as he alternately strolled and struggled along the forest path's cleared stretches and choked patches he thought again of the old man's words. Lions and serpents? So he probably wasn't the only one summoned by the gods. At once, this both comforted and disturbed him deeply. Zedd felt some small relief at the thought that he might not have to face Artemis' challenge alone, but if this quest were serious enough that each of the gods would enlist a champion of their own, then surely the consequences of failure were more terrible and far-reaching than he'd originally suspected. Mention of the Pale Man was equally disconcerting; it had been a long time since Zedd thought about his childhood, but he remembered well the nights he'd spent in his room reading about the history of the gods and other entities, and finding references to a pale man and his pale horse. The Angel of Death...not one of the gods, nor one of their agents, but a being wholly separate and apart from the pantheons, above them, a creature more conceptual than corporeal. Zedd shuddered and quickly turned his thoughts to more concrete avenues.<br><br>So preoccupied was Zedd with Marley's prophecy that he almost didn't notice the clearing until he was in it. The sudden absence of the great Sequoyias in his path was almost shocking, and the shadows they cast were long and deep. He stood at the clearing's edge and looked around; if the gods had called others to this place, it seemed he was the first one to arrive. He walked a little further into what seemed to be a perfect circle of lush, green grass. Small patches of wildflowers dotted the glade, and Zedd wondered how such lovely plants could flourish in such a dark habitat. 'Truly, this place must be sacred after all,' he thought reverently as he reached the clearing's center.<br><br>He sank to the ground and crossed his legs, sitting comfortably as he laid down his duffel beside him. His stomach rumbled; last night's pie and the morning's jerky were long since gone. He would have liked to catch something for lunch, a few squirrels or a fat rabbit, perhaps, but the emptiness of the forest mocked him once again. Nothing for it; he grabbed his bag and began to hunt for another pack of his jerky, thankful he'd managed to bring a healthy supply of that, at least. His fingers had just closed around the smooth paper wrapping when he heard the sound of a thick branch cracking beneath a heavy foot, somewhere in the forest to his left.<br><br>In an instant Zedd spun up onto one knee, his knife drawn and ready. He reached out with one hand, calling forth the power of the earth into himself and feeling the absolutely immense reservoir of magical energy that flowed through the clearing. Ley lines of power criss crossed the forest, and he wanted to kick himself for failing to notice them sooner. Like the intricate web of an insane cathedral spider, the ley lines radiated outward from the center of the glade where they formed a node of pure, unbridled power. If it weren't for the adrenaline already pumping through Zedd's veins, he would probably have been knocked cold by its raw essence. As it was, he felt somewhat unsteady, and fought not to sway under the weight of the power he'd tapped.<br><br>"Hello?" Zedd said, listening as sharply as his ears allowed. "I know you're there. Come out now. I, uh...I promise, I won't hurt you." He glanced down at the readied knife in his grip and felt a little silly. The blade lowered somewhat, and he called out again. "Honestly, I don't mean any harm." '<em>So long as you don't, either</em>,' he thought to himself nervously. For long minutes Zedd remained still, the only sounds his breathing and racing heart. He was beginning to wonder if he'd actually heard anything after all...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vathis</strong> on <strong>17-02-2011, 07:09:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The glimmer of morning sun illuminating the shallow sea floor awakened Melvin. It was quiet, as always, and peaceful. He was alone in the small structure of shelter he called home. It had been a long journey and he had been so tired. It was surely his weariness that was cause for such strange dreams. Accepting the tranquility of his usual surroundings, Melvin decided to move.<br><br>The mind has a strange way of moving back to that which touches our very soul. It is the essence of life, a fact which as a Priest of Hades, Melvin understood. It is also a fact which slipped the mind of this Priest as he drifted to the lifeless body of the mermaid with the purple hair. Perhaps it was the odd appearance of this mermaid, or the lack of memory for how she passed (or how he came to be delivering her) is what moved his thoughts in this direction. At least this is what he told himself.<br><br>The shock of seeing the helmet resting on the floor of his shelter did not at first set with him. In fact, he saw it and swam past it three times before actually pausing in front of it. Melvin's expression went from unconcerned to befuddled as if the small hamster turning the wheels in his brain had begun to move in sync with his discovery.<br><br>The thing about being chosen as Champion for a quest by a God, you can never be prepared for it. Melvin Crockett, was by this idea, the perfect choice. The notion of worthiness can trouble a man, or merman, long into the darkest nights, and leave the dirty stains of fear, doubt, and mistrust on the very soul. Unfortunately for Melvin, it was just sunrise.<br><br>By Merfolk standards, Melvin was still a young merman. Young merman are old men. The notion of causing trouble with the very gift of a God had not crossed his mind. It had crossed his doubt filled mind that perhaps some measure of proof would be needed as to either his sanity or status among the divine. After all, what dark dreams come from the bottom of the ocean? Securing the helmet slightly too large for him atop his head, Melvin went out into the city to see if he was noticed.<br><br>By no surprise, he was not noticed. This was how he spent most of his time, but wearing a large and quite silly looking hat, he was sure that SOMEONE would glance in his direction. The point of wearing a magical helmet is easily lost when all you want is to be noticed. Several times he removed the helmet in hopes that someone would see him there. It didn't help. Perhaps it is somewhat of a cruel joke to bestow upon someone a gift which they already possess. It was on this thought that Melvin decided to hang his fate.<br><br>California is a long swim. He made long swims to deliver to the Underworld as well. His parents had moved to the land years ago, maybe he would have a chance to visit? He gathered his staff and traveling gear, and set out for the shore of California. The stains forming on his soul in the long night are as invisible as Melvin, even though the helmet lay packed in the pouch on his side.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>17-02-2011, 11:11:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>Over the past two weeks Akribos has been on a ship and has landed up to date with most of the other "dreamers" so to speak.</em><br><br>As the ship sound its announcement of the landed, Akribos stood slowly in his cabin room, his eyes slowly opening from his position on the floor as he sat in prayer to his goddess of pain and suffering, Tureal only honored those like him for their loyalty. Being a goddess of shere torture and pain, it is obvious why one would be paranoid, though if it helped Akribos reach the goal he was hunting, to find this....Angnhil being. He truely just wanted to stop running, he wanted his immortality to be set in stone only without the constant hiding his face, covering himself in the slums of the world. When Zeus laid at his feet with his spear from the old and long dead titan, though to most it looked like an old spear that was outdated with the weapons now developed, though the ability to never be broken let him to keep it. Obviously a spear that could not be snapped since it held a wood handle would be very valuable since it would make the weapon light as well.&nbsp; <br><br>Grabbing his spear he hung his shield over his right shoulder so it would rest over his back, though his large cloak covered the large shield well, and his sword on his belt's front was hidden under the cloaks, and the helm remained in the rucksack under his shield on his back. Of course the Cat-O-Nines that Tureal had given him in the dream rested inside his shield so that he could lash out with it when he did a shield bash, the metal ends of the small whip like weapon would hook around into the victim, very brutal. Making his face be still covered with the DishDash on his head and the thick cloth beanie that hell over his short cropped hair, which was odd in itself. The scar over the side of his head caused there to be little hair that grew where his scar was, yet he still wore it out to emphasize the scars he wore, it was his mark of pride, he would be damned if someone tried to change him. His body was enormous as he exited his room and was greeted with a large crowd that he really did tower over. Staring at the people as they waited to leave the boat Akribos sighed and shook his head. <br><br>Glaring at the dock they arrived at, he had felt them head north, now he knew why. They where in Boston, not farther south as Akribos had been told. Walking towards the captain, Akribos looked at the man with his bright blue eyes, his emotions obvious as he glared at the man with a slight growl in his throat. "Captain, we were suppose to land in Florida, why the hell are we so far north?" The captain shrugged as many of the passenger1's gleamed at the chance to see the new town, Akribos growled and pushed the smaller man from his way and headed towards the harbor, shoving most of the people to his side to move through faster than a half a step per minute. <br><br>'Redwood, California.....That is were the few are headed, but where in the hell would they be until then? Dammit Tureal and her riddles, often annoyed Akribos, but the goddess could have just carved a map on his groin if she really wanted to find out his thoughts on her directions. Holding back any ill will thoughts Akribos replayed the dream in his head as he ducked away from the main road and into and alleyway while he though adjusting his gear, leaving his large bare torso exposed except of course for his armor covering his left shield arm and neck as well as his shoulder. Groaning as his head began to hurt Akribos snapped his head up and smelled the air, he thought he had caught something, just a faint scent of something, his animalistic nature seemed to help when the Olympians stench was around, though he wasn't sure how far that could have been from, after all he was in a harbor. Glaring around him he remained in the alleyway, holding his spear like a walking stick while he pondered where to begin until he realized that the riddle was not even a riddle, she had failed to mention it.<br><br>As soon as that thought entered his mind it seemed like he just been stabbed in the liver from behind, his body dropping from the shock of it while he grit his teeth and sucked in a deep breath, he was wrong. The dream came back vividly as the map was stabbed into his back, and though he was given the blessing of a million years and more to train his body to feel no pain, the goddess Tureal could cause that pain to drop him within seconds which by mortal weapons would take a damn ballast to his stomach to cause this type of agony. Groaning as he dropped his spear to his side and coughed as he held his stomach and snarled out his eyes shining a bright deep blue color, as though his eyes were full of mist as he grit his teeth harder. His hands on his stomach while he clenched his teeth. He really hated that he had vowed to serve Tureal in the way he did, her death meant his failure, hence his death as well. The life that the goddess had was connected to his soul and maybe one other on the known earth, if she died, they both would die as well. The price of guardians is that if the god/goddess died, there was no reason for them to exist anymore, Akribos would never allow Tureal to die, no matter the cost, since he was as loyal, it was no doubt why Tureal loved to make him suffer so. For her it was damn foreplay and a turn on, if only Akribos felt the same way. <br><br>The pain subsided for a moment as the location for his first target to watch was given to him as he stood slowly and looked down the alleyway, retrieving his spear as he coughed and leaned on his spear and moved from the harbor to the city, his target was clear, he would be there in days, the god's forgive whoever tried to stop him on the way there.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>17-02-2011, 21:53:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702)</div>The days wears on as Feldor meditates at the edge of the clearing with no interruptions during which time the great cat Seiceron grows restless. Staying fairly close to his elven friend he still manages to wander into the forest a ways. Panting from the heat while still wearing his cold weather thick fur he searches out a source of fresh cool water. Finding a stream he drinks thirstily from it but it gives little relief from the California heat. He then walks slowly along the stream until coming to a spot where it widens and deepens. Upon seeing the deeper pool an odd sound of delight escapes from his throat. Taking three running steps he leaps coming down with a great splash in the center of the deeper water. Leaping and splashing he frolics happily in the cool water for quite some time.<br><br>After fully restoring his spent magical energies Feldor stands up and scans the clearing and surrounding forest. Not seeing Seiceron he walks into the forest and soon finds the stream. After taking a drink himself he spots the foot prints of his large friend in the muddy bank. Following the tiger’s trail he soon comes to the pool. Seeing the cat lounging in a shallow area letting the water flow around him Feldor smiles and says, “Some guardian you are running off to play in the water while I set helpless.” With a snort as if saying, “You were in no danger,” Seiceron simply looks back at the elf. With a light laugh Feldor says, “I understand my friend, it is much warmer here and unlike me you cannot simply take off your cold weather coat.”<br><br>After a moment’s thought Feldor strips out of his clothing leaving it and his gear on the bank. Taking several running steps he plunges into the deeper water. He comes up for air with a gasp, “Wow, that’s cold.” After shaking some of the water out of his long white hair he splashes the tiger. After receiving a spray of water in the face Seiceron springs up shooting out of the water and lands with a huge splash directly in front of the elf. The two friends start to wrestle and splash each other. After a considerable amount of time passes Feldor walks out breathing heavily but laughing and lies on the bank next to his clothing.<br><br>After taking several minutes to let his heart rate to slow and breathing return to normal, Feldor causes all the excess water to leave his body and hair with very minor use of his magic. After redressing and while picking up his gear he says, “The sun will be setting soon, we should get back to the clearing.”<br><br>As they come to the edge of the clearing Seiceron suddenly moves forward and drops into a crouch below the top of the foliage as if stalking some prey. Feldor stops to watch what the tiger is up to, but is only able to follow the tiger’s passage by observing the greenery opening in his wake. Stopping suddenly as he steps on and breaks a dead branch hidden in the grass Seiceron freezes and does not even breath for a few minutes. After hearing the man speak Feldor follows in the tiger’s wake and just before reaching his side Seiceron rises above the plants and sets down looking at the man. Stopping at his side Feldor idly lets his right hand rest between the massive shoulders of his striped friend. “Seiceron, must you always toy with strangers we meet?” Looking at the man on one knee holding a small blade he says, “I am Feldor. I apologize for Seiceron, but he is after all a cat and can be quite mischievous at times. Let me welcome you as a fellow traveler to this clearing. Please allow me to give you some friendly advice. First using such a small blade against someone like my furry friend is only likely to get you killed. Secondly I highly recommend that you release your hold on the node. Even for those of us trained to use them the sheer energy can be very dangerous. For the sake of safety why don’t we join together and make camp at the edge rather than in the center of the clearing?” Turning back to look at the tiger again he suggests, “During my meditation I sensed somebody using the oak corridors. I suspect that it is another coming here. Why don’t you go see if you can find him or her and see if you can guide this person safely back here.” He points in the direction he had sensed the natural magics being used.<br><br>Nodding his head as if fully understanding the elf’s words Seiceron stands and trots off into the forest the direction being indicated. Moving at his own pace he is able to easily cover many miles in a relatively short amount of time. He pauses very once in a while to test the scents on the winds. After his third such pause he picks up the scent of a woman and breaks into a run. As her scent gets stronger he slows to a walk. He finally reaches an ancient and mighty oak tree. Stopping several yards from the base of the great tree he sets down and looks up into the high branches staring directly at the spot where knows the woman is perched making sure he is fully visible from her position.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightBlade</strong> on <strong>19-02-2011, 20:45:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Elic eyes the wolf-man warily, remembering the gruesome tales he had heard of wolf-people. He kept a calm outward compasure, not showing the doubts that flittered on the inside.<br>&nbsp; 'For lumch? Oh, I hope that means what I think it does, and not...' he let the though trail off.<br>&nbsp; Elic followed after the woman as she went deeper into the house, getting a small tour of the place.<br>&nbsp; "So why is it a pretty maiden such as yourself lives out here? You seem...well..more of a city type," Elic shrugged, trying not to be insulting in any way.<br><br>After saying that he looked over at the servants. Wondering if they are the same as the man from outside. He kept his composure but also kept aware of what was happening.<br><br>"If you dont mind me asking, how did you meet the man from outside?" he said trying to see if they were aggressive or not 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>20-02-2011, 08:52:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Not always what it seems<br><br>Gulp. "That. Is one. Big. Cat."<br><br>Zedd's eyes widened considerably as the great feline appeared at the edge of the clearing, seeming to materialize out of the fog. A rush of fear went through him and he tightened his grip on both the knife and the node. Zedd fully expected that within the next few minutes, he would be dead, and the cat would be enjoying itself a full meal. Schoolteacher on a bed of herbs and grass.<br><br>There was no time to draw his slingshot, little help as it might have provided against the beast; he would have to fight with nothing but his knife and whatever magic he could channel. He shut his eyes tight and steeled himself for what was sure to be a ferocious -- but short -- battle; if he was to be eaten, so be it, but he'd be damned if he'd die without a fight. When Zedd opened his eyes again, however, the tiger-creature was no longer alone. A tall, broad-shouldered figure stood beside it, casual and totally at ease. The creature's master? He must have been, if the way his hand rested between the beast's shoulders was any indication. Two on one, then...but neither man nor animal moved to attack. Perhaps bloodshed could be avoided yet?<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4272604#msg4272604">Quote from: Elf on 17-02-2011, 21:53:22</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><br>"Seiceron, must you always toy with strangers we meet?" Looking at the man on one knee holding a small blade he says, "I am Feldor. I apologize for Seiceron, but he is after all a cat and can be quite mischievous at times. Let me welcome you as a fellow traveler to this clearing. Please allow me to give you some friendly advice. First using such a small blade against someone like my furry friend is only likely to get you killed. Secondly I highly recommend that you release your hold on the node. Even for those of us trained to use them the sheer energy can be very dangerous. For the sake of safety why don't we join together and make camp at the edge rather than in the center of the clearing?"<br><br>Turning back to look at the tiger again he suggests, "During my meditation I sensed somebody using the oak corridors. I suspect that it is another coming here. Why don"t you go see if you can find him or her and see if you can guide this person safely back here." He points in the direction he had sensed the natural magics being used.<br><br>Nodding his head as if fully understanding the elf's words Seiceron stands and trots off into the forest the direction being indicated. <br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>The relief that washed over Zedd was practically tangible. His muscles began to relax, and with an amiable grin he sheathed his knife and released his grasp of the node. Or, that's what he tried to do, anyway. His energy had become so entangled with the power of the ley lines, it felt like the node now had a grip on him instead. He glanced over at the stranger and felt a bit sheepish, but tried to conceal his predicament as best he could while he attempted to pull himself free.<br><br>"Unh...what, this? Nah, it's -- urgh! -- It's not so bad. Nothing I...heurk!...can't...handle..." With a final effort the connection broke, and a last surge of power exploded into Zedd and knocked him backward onto the grass. Dazed, he sat up and shook his head and looked back at the stranger. "Of course, on the other hand, the edge does seem like quite a fine spot to make camp, if you don't mind my joining you," Zedd said, huff-puff. He watched a moment longer as the big cat turned and darted off at the man's words. Clearly no ordinary animal.<br><br>Zedd reached back and gathered his pack up, rose and approached the man who stood at the base of one of the giant redwoods. Marley's words again echoed in his mind. '"Ya gwan meet de firs' one soon, in de shadows of red giants."' As he walked nearer, Zedd's eyes traced up the tall trunk as far as he could before the canopy shuttered his view. 'I'd say I found him, old timer.' <br><br>Upon closer inspection Zedd realized his new acquaintance was not a man at all, but in fact an Elf. He didn't know much about Elves as a race, but he'd met a few here and there on his travels south. Good people, if a little formal and high-minded at times. Supposedly they had a greater affinity for magic than Humans did, but Zedd was never certain if that was a natural trait or just an advantage from living so damn long. Whatever the case, this fellow was clearly more in tune with the mystical energies that surrounded them than Zedd was; Zedd didn't even know what an oak corridor was, let alone that it was occupied. He just took the Elf's words to mean they would be expecting another guest soon. 'Well, the more, the merrier, I suppose. These must be some of the other gods' champions. Right again, old man. Best be polite.'<br><br>Zedd stretched out a hand in greeting and met the Elf's eyes with a friendly -- but guarded -- smile. "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, amigo. I'm Zedd. Zedd Witlock."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>20-02-2011, 18:58:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702) in the clearing with Zedd</div>Watching the man struggle to break his connection to the node, Feldor prepares to intervene should it be necessary. His eyes grow dark with sorrow as a painful memory comes unbidden to his mind. A sigh of relief audibly escapes his clench jaw when the connection is broken leaving the man relatively unharmed. As the man stands and steps forward, Feldor smiles warmly forcing the sorrow back and letting the smile reach his eyes.<br><br>Stepping forward himself Feldor takes the out stretched hand clasping it in a firm but friendly hand shake. “Well met, Zedd Witlock. Feldor Kelmaric.” Releasing Zedd’s hand he steps back and sets down leaning against the great tree. “I’m glad you were able to get free of the node. I’m not certain I could have gotten you free. I’m impressed with strength a lesser man would have been consumed by the node’s energies. Assuming you’re here for the same reason I am I shouldn’t surprised the average person wouldn’t be called upon for whatever task is set before us. Do you have any idea what that task is? I was simply told to come to this clearing. Of course you can join me I would not have suggested it otherwise.”<br><br>Remaining silent for a moment Feldor’s eyes lose their focus as he ponders some distant thoughts. Looking up at Zedd with a new determination in his eyes he says, “Zedd, use seem to have a natural affinity for the magics of this world, but lack training. If you wish and time permits I would be honored to teach you what I can.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Narianna</strong> on <strong>20-02-2011, 20:55:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Below are images of the clearing.<br><br><strong>The Grass</strong><br><br>(http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs51/i/2009/290/d/4/Where_the_druids_hide_by_Luiza82.jpg)<br><br><strong>The Clearing</strong><br><br>(http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/353383/353383,1274454687,1/stock-photo-a-sea-of-bluebells-in-a-clearing-in-english-woodland-in-spring-53576479.jpg)<br><br><strong>Tree Stumps</strong><br><br>(http://my-blackberry.net/wallpapers/42/m/Giants%2C_Calaveras_Big_Trees_State_Park.jpg)<br><br><strong>Trees Upward View</strong><br><br>(http://www.myparkphotos.com/photos/images/2010.12.23/54889.jpg)</div><br><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>Selena struggled with her bonds as the next man stumbled down the stairs. She started, jumping slightly, as Zilior took out the second man. She reached down and fumbled as much as she could with the mantle the man had given her. He wasn’t big but Selena’s frame was so small and lithe that the mere mantle draped over her was enough to cover her nudity.<br><br>“S-Sir?” Selena stammered. “I seem to be still bound… Could you set me free?”<br><br><div align="center">Arya Angelicus (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200851#msg4200851)</div><br>Gideon was impressed with Arya’s forceful take charge attitude. He was even more impressed with her body and the way she moved it. He sat up and watched as she slinked to and fro and gulped greedily when the wine began to flow. He suckled at her toes, massaging the pads with his tongue, and running a hand along the silken length of her calf.<br><br>By the time she had finished undressing, his cock was pressing fully erect in his leather pants – a pleasure bordering almost painful. He felt the urge to rub himself, to fling her on the bed and take her, but he resisted such rash actions. There was no fun in rushing such delicious acts. He decided instead that he’d rather taste every inch of her. He watched her with a gleam in his eye as she came to lie next to him.<br><br>“Darling, you were exceptional,” he cooed low and raspy. His voice took on a much more heated flare as he said, “And now I wish to see if you taste as good as you look.” He pushed her onto her back and brushed his lips against hers before beginning with her neck. He kissed and licked down her body, his tongue flicking and lapping at her nipples and belly button, the scruff of his five o’clock shadow prickling playfully. When he got to her sex, he paused marveling at the little piercing, and then passed it up, kissing the rest of his way down her legs. He made sure to lick behind her knees and in the crevices of her elbows. He spent a long time tasting her body and taking full advantage of erogenous zones.<br><br>When he finally got back to the area between her legs, he teased playfully at her inner thighs, licking and nipping at them. Kneeling on the hard wood floor, his own sex pulsating painfully against his pants, he looked up at her. Gideon placed each of her legs over a shoulder. He caught her eyes with his intense blue ones and slapped a hand on each side of her buttocks. He pulled her closer to him in one fluid motion. Keeping eyes locked with hers, his tongue darted out and licked one long time up her slit. With the fingers of one hand, he expertly held open the flaps of her labia and began to play with the little silver piece attached to her clit. He sucked it in and out of his mouth, tonguing, biting, and pulling at it.<br><br><div align="center">Elic Stemis (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199948#msg4199948)</div><br>“Who? Lars? Oh don’t mind him,” Katherine let out a feminine giggle that had a slight nervous undertone. “He’s been my… butler for many years now.” Servants began bustling about the dining area. They were a sundry of species. A female feline came up and sat Elic in a chair near the head of the table where Katherine sat herself. Food started coming out and was placed on the table in front of them.<br><br>“So, Elic. What brings you all the way out here?” Katherine asked, digging into a piece of meat a bit too crudely for a woman of her stature. It was evident she was trying to keep the curiosity out of her face.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vergil1989</strong> on <strong>21-02-2011, 01:00:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hearing such a compliment and the following quite delicious statement that followed had Arya's blood heating almost immediately in anticipation.&nbsp; Who could refuse such an offer to be tasted and licked as he had in mind?&nbsp; Besides, the myrtle necklace marked him as at least a devotee of Aphrodite's church if not a full blown priest, which was unlikely in this case but she wasn't about to complain.&nbsp; Entangling her long soft fingers in the man's hair as he pushed her onto her back, the elven priestess arched her back a bit and gave a soft moan as he began his wonderful exploration of her body.<br><br><em>Oh Aphrodite....don't let this night ever end.</em>&nbsp; She prayed mentally in god given pleasure it seemed as he continued downward slowly, making her whimper due to his facial hair adding to what his tongue and lips were already doing to her.&nbsp; It surprised her to notice he was taking his sweet time, and Arya was quite grateful for that since it had been a time since she had had a good time in bed, and she had a feeling this was going to more than make up for it.&nbsp; By the time he got to her sex and stayed there, her skin seemed to be on fire quite pleasantly and she was panting for breath from how aroused she had become.&nbsp; Her sex was dripping and wet, thick with her desire as it let her love juices flow freely.<br><br>A sharp intake of breath followed when he started to play with her clit piercing as well as her pussy, driving his tongue deep into her soft folds.&nbsp; "Oh yes....please don't...stop!&nbsp; Make...me cum....so hard...please."&nbsp; She cried out, her hands clenching tightly onto the sheets as she squirmed on the bed like a fish on a hot tin roof.&nbsp; Yes...this was worth it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>22-02-2011, 20:12:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The girl was disoriented and slightly dizzy as she sat on the branch of the oak tree.&nbsp; <em>What a way to travel!&nbsp; How come I never knew that was possible? </em> She sent a silent prayer of thanks to the Goddess for getting her here unscathed, now she just had to find her way to the clearing.<br><br>She looked around her at the lush green forest, and her eyes widened.&nbsp; She followed the trunks of the trees around her, up and up and up, until her neck was as far back as it would go.&nbsp; Phaedra had spent much of her life in the forest, but never had she seen trees as tall as these.&nbsp; Even the Oaks were taller than the ones back home.<br><br>She was still gazing around in awe when her eyes widened even further.&nbsp; Her breath caught, and she scooted even further back on the branch where she was until her back was up against the trunk.&nbsp; A huge, and she meant huge, white tiger was sitting near the base of the tree looking up at her.&nbsp; Now what was she to do?&nbsp; She couldn’t get down, and she didn’t want to go back.&nbsp; She looked around and found that she could climb onto another branch of the tree, perhaps if she moved around to the opposite side of the tree from the tiger she could get down quietly and head off into the undergrowth without it realising.&nbsp; It was just sitting there, not prowling about, not trying to leap up at her, so it didn’t look hungry.<br><br><em>Well I certainly can’t sit here all day</em> she thought, and so very slowly and very quietly began to slide around the trunk of the tree, moving down to a lower branch.&nbsp; Eventually she managed to let herself down to the floor, and without looking behind, headed for the nearest thick bush.&nbsp; She could hide there and hopefully the tiger would get bored and leave.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>23-02-2011, 08:28:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Seiceron trying to get Phaedra to follow him</div><br>Smelling the woman’s fear he waits patiently for her to descend. Tracking her descent on the opposite side by smell and sound he moves just as she is reaching the forest floor. Moving at a slow nonaggressive speed he puts himself between her the thick bush she is heading for. At least now if she breaks and runs it will be generally in the right direction and it will be a simple matter to get her back to the clearing.<br><br>Before she can run Seiceron steps towards her in exactly the fashion a house cat moves towards somebody he likes. Reaching her he rubs against her torso the same way a house would rub against her leg. As he moves slowly past her his tail goes up under her chin to rub against her throat and up across her cheek. Walking on past her he stops a few steps away and looks back over his shoulder at. When he catches her eye he bobs his head in the direction of the clearing. Taking another step he repeats gesture with his head, he does this one more time. After the third head bob he starts walking slowly in that direction.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>24-02-2011, 07:34:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The twists and turns of his mind ran over him over and over as the days turned into a week and then on the 11th day of searching while traveling west he found a mage who bought his story. Unlike the rest of the world he was loyal to the gods, but not of this time, the fathers of the current gods who ruled. It was often times hard to not lie and since most mages were very careful about reading people, not to mention his common practice of covering his face, while leaving his upper torso quite bare showing his massive size. No doubt some of them took him for a Sarian agent, but he cared not of what he was called, not many got it right.&nbsp; Finding a particularly kind mage who would except his trade of gold for a quick teleport from the lower end of Indiana to this Redwood, California. The only issue Akribos noticed when he arrived was the fact that Redwood, California turned out to be several miles and miles of thick forest. As the rush and blur of the mages spell wore off Akribos shook his head while he reached up to the dishdash and pulled it from his face revealing his mouth open while he dropped to one knee again, his body feeling like it was decaying and his liver again throbbing from the stabbing pain in his lower back. The map flared up in his mind as he jerked his head back snarling out while he gripped the spear with both of his massive hands while he breathed heavily as if his body was in shock.<br><br>One thing that his mind held onto was the fact of his goddess of worship got both off and entertained at the suffering of her servants even if it could end their lives, they would suffer till that point. Shaking the pain he glared at the area scanning for anyone, his dishdash was only pulled down enough to show his upper lip to mid neck to anyone who might have been here before he arrived. Adjusting his large cloak over his back once again so that it covered more of his large scarred upper body, while also moving the dishdash back up over his face covering the deep gash scar over his left side of his lips. Coughing lightly as he stood Akribos sniffed the air after clearing his throat, his eyes looking from between the dishdash top and bottom around his eyes. This place truly was amazing to look at, the forest were thick, though they were peaceful it seemed, oh how Turael would vomit if she saw this place in the flesh, but then again she would do no such thing. <br><br>Stepping out on foot Akribos could sense the location, because the closer he got the more pain his side was giving, he no doubt looked like an old creature by the time he reached the location of the clearing, his breath calm, but his body hunched as he leaned on the long 8 foot spear he carried before the pain suddenly vanished from his body. Glaring at the clearing Akribos could feel the tingle over his neck as he moved from between two of the trees to behind one of them, his darker clothing, both the cloak and pants of leather were black, keeping him hidden. Sighing he continued to count his breaths as he sorted through the scents, though it had been no doubt two weeks or more since each of these creatures had their dreams, after this long, Akribos had learned the "smell" that the mortal of this time gave off in accordance with each god. Breathing in deep he could smell the more powerful of the four beings he sensed around him....<br><br><em>'Four?!'</em> his mind rushed, how could he had not felt the forth one? A woman, she wasn't there moments ago, but then his mind remembered his own travel arrangements. He smirked, another mage or person who got help from a mage like himself. Calming himself he looked slowly from behind the tree watching the two men talk, and smirked at the white haired elf. Athena. Looked like the preachy goddess finally got a decent looking animal for her side. The elf carried a dagger with him, not to mention the large cat that crawled out scaring the smaller human. Sniffing the air Akribos could smell Artemis all over him, the virgin archer. That goddess should have been less obvious about her gifts of beauty and stick to archery rather than taunting her brother and employing boy's with knives and pebbles for her fighters. The smaller one who spoke his name being Zedd made Akribos smile, the human was young, very young in comparison to the creature behind him, or the cat with the servant of Persephone. <em>'A dryad?!'</em> No, not a Dryad, they were not the....no mixed. The human with the animal was mixed with dryad blood, now that was interesting in itself, but even more so what a creature that was not meant to be in a battle, not by any means, would be chosen by the supposed goddess of the underworld. This looked easier and easier for him, Akribos was sure that no doubt the true instrument of power would soon be shown to this place, but Akribos preferred being out in the open than in the shadows outside their camps. <br><br>No doubt Turael would be angry, but if he could pull off convincing these few that he was for Ares service, he would no doubt fit right in. Though the elf who named himself as Feldor Kelmaric, would no doubt be suspicious of him as his own goddess being Ares brother, not that the goddess would sense anything, but the risk remained. He would no doubt pass for a servant of Hades, but then again the new arrival of the human who smelled heavily of Dryad was in service of the underworld's king jerk off's wife. It was a damned if he did, damned if he didn't. He could always have said he was in service to Eros, but having the body and groin of dreams for women who no doubt prayed to the horn god of sex and lust for a visit from a man with his size. Though his lack of owning half of the skin on his skull would no doubt turn that down. Smiling he nodded on the Olympian that many would think he served anyways, if not for Ares still being alive, Hades. It seemed only true that the god of the underworld would bring a warrior of the old world to fight, no doubt that if they didn't think him human, he could pass off that he was a raised general from the days before their time, and was here to fight for Hades.<br><br>Nodding to himself he agreed that was what he could do, it would be the mask he could wear for a few days. Stepping up he adjusted his body and twisted his cloak around his body and now wore it mainly hanging off his back and covering only the shoulder of his left arm, his shield arm. Grabbing his shield from his back and pulling to his left arm as he hooked his arm in the leather grip piece on the underside of the shield. The Cat-O-Nines under the bronze of the outside lip, covered completely under a few strips of leather. Gritting his teeth he turned from the tree and sighed as he walked out suddenly from behind the boy and in view of the elf. His eyes where hidden under the shading of his wraps around his face, and his pack on his back hiding his helm designed for his face by the goddess he now served, able to hold the golden rings through his flesh on his head without risk of ripping them out. <br><br>While walking towards the two men Akribos smirked at their expression of no doubt shock at seeing a man of his size come from behind the trees on the clearing, carrying his shield and large spear. "Good day to ya sir, and you too elf. Mind you telling me what the likes of you are doing in the path of Hades who has ordered my body here?" His accent was thick and rough, very much so Greek, rather than his much rougher and Pagan Irish sounding one. To fit in was his first goal when he became immortal. Glaring at the node and then noticing all the lines going around the clearing, Akribos stepped over the lines in his heavy black boots which had his golden greaves coming up from them and to his knee on each leg. Gritting his teeth he looked over the two men and smirked holding his spear at his side and his shield chest level, his head wandering as he gritted his teeth not just from the annoyance of the men, but also on the smell of the Olympian worshipers that they wore. Devote no doubt, heavily devote. Snorting slightly and lifting his rags for just a quick moment to spit he then looked back at the Olympians. <br><br>"Hades has sent me here to kill something which should have already been dead, where is the monster? Evil of some prime source no doubt eh? Well then you two would kindly explain where the being is I can get this done and go home eh?" Glaring down at the two much smaller men, hell Akribos had a foot on each of them at least, Akribos adjusted his grip on his spear to a more relaxed state, and nodded with a slight bow. "My manners, forgive me, I have been quite alone for quite a few decades, I am not used to dealing with people again. No doubt my lord would not enjoy me screwing up his already bad name. Talos, Talos Vern is my name." The lies were truth to Akribos, his eyes barely flinched as he had been going by that name for the past two weeks to assure he wouldn't slip. <br><br>"Warrior and servant to my lord. I assure you that you boy would like to tell Artemis to hire someone who looks less like a whelp with rocks and a knife and more like a man who can actually learn not to touch the big glowing thing in the middle of the clearing that half the champions of the Gods and Goddess's are gonna show up to. As for you elf, your big cat seems to have found a servant of Persephone, might want to help bring her here. Before you ask I am very old, very tired, and very annoyed to be here amongst the lovely happy forest of California, so let us move on and just get the mission over with eh?" He no doubt seemed long winded for having just entered the clearing, but assuming command and moving those in his way seemed spot on for both Zeus and Hades, if Akribos's memory hadn't faded yet. Looking at the two men Akribos did not extend his hand, nor let go of his spear, he wasn't about to show kindness, Hades didn't seem like the type to be decent to another living thing. Although he didn't serve Hades, if the Sarians had killed the Titans instead, he would no doubt serve for Hades instead, he gave off no such scent as they did either. It was as if he was an empty being, no god or goddess could be smelt, or felt on him, he was seemingly untainted other than giving an aura of being very lethal and cold, not to mention old. It was how over the past Millions of years he remained hidden and alive, these mortals could not break his masks and ways he kept himself a secret.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>KaiiVii</strong> on <strong>24-02-2011, 23:04:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4258416#msg4258416">Quote from: Narianna on 14-02-2011, 09:09:23</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center">Aleka Softlystepping (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199655#msg4199655)</div><br>“Master Giant?” The cracking rocks turned into the sound of a million rocks toppling atop each other as the huge rock giant grabbed his sides and laughed. With his massive arms out of the way, Aleka can now see the glowing soft blue light coming from the core of the giant. "Crumb not a Master Giant, silly Cat. Crumb a rock golem. Name is Crumble but you call me Crumb."<br><br>The rock golem plopped on the ground in front of Aleka. The force of such an action made tiny spider cracks in all directions and bounced Aleka at least a foot in the air. “Crumb has seen many forests. What name of forest you seek?”<br><br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Under her fur Aleka blushed at her ungraceful flight into the air. Slowly she recovered her composure however and say across from him. "Crump," she said by way of greeting "It is a pleasure, I am Aleka." She thought for a moment before shaking her head. "I do not know the name, but perhaps I can draw you the map that Pan draw for me..." the last was said absently as she clawed in the dirt to sketch out the internal map she was following. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>24-02-2011, 23:52:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Phaedra gave a little yelp as the great cat appeared between her and the undergrowth.&nbsp; She stopped suddenly, standing stock still, as if that would protect her.&nbsp; She was offering a prayer to her Goddess to help her, when the cat rubbed up against her.&nbsp; <br><br>She gave a shaky laugh, as it seemed the huge feline was friendly <em>‘A little too friendly’</em> she thought as his tail whipped across her throat and face.&nbsp; She didn’t move as the cat moved away, but then as she saw him turn and look, for all the world his expression said “Come on then!” so gathering her pack up onto her shoulder, she followed with a great feeling sense of apprehension.<br><br><em>I really hope I’m doing the right thing following the tiger, but I don’t want to upset him, and he definitely seems to want me to go with him.</em>&nbsp; She hurried to keep up with him as he led her through the forest.&nbsp; <br><br>She was still enthralled by the grandeur of the magnificent trees, and from time to time she paused with a hand on a trunk, as if she was trying to communicate with the ancient redwoods.&nbsp; She was thinking if only they could talk, and tell her of their lives, and the things they had seen in this forest. She was still enthralled by her surroundings when she began to realise she could hear a voice, and she could see the tiger up ahead sitting at the side of an elf with pure white hair.&nbsp; She hesitated at the edge of the clearing, peeking out from behind the widest tree trunk she had ever seen.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>25-02-2011, 02:45:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Guests and Intruders<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4283703#msg4283703">Quote from: Elf on 20-02-2011, 18:58:30</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">Stepping forward himself Feldor takes the out stretched hand clasping it in a firm but friendly hand shake. “Well met, Zedd Witlock. Feldor Kelmaric.” Releasing Zedd’s hand he steps back and sets down leaning against the great tree. “I’m glad you were able to get free of the node. I’m not certain I could have gotten you free. I’m impressed with strength a lesser man would have been consumed by the node’s energies. Assuming you’re here for the same reason I am I shouldn’t surprised the average person wouldn’t be called upon for whatever task is set before us. Do you have any idea what that task is? I was simply told to come to this clearing. Of course you can join me I would not have suggested it otherwise.”<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Zedd gave Feldor's arm a few solid pumps, then released the Elf's hand and glanced back to the center of the clearing, an involuntary shiver running down his spine. He could still feel the sheer power of the node, but thankfully the sensation was dwindling to little more than memory now. He couldn't imagine being linked to such force for any extended period of time; a lucky man would only be driven insane.<br><br>"That makes two of us, <em>amigo</em>. To be honest, I was a little worried myself. Good thing I didn't channel the whole thing," he said, considering Feldor's next question. "<em>Si</em>, I think maybe we are on a similar path. I'm afraid I don't know exactly what the task will be, but..." '<em>De Pale Mon and him horse...road ta salvation...'</em> "I have a feeling whatever it is, it's not just local. It's going to be much bigger...much worse...than anything we might expect." '<em>De Keepers not de only ones callin'...powerful lions...treach'rous serpents...</em>' Zedd's voice fell lower as he spoke, and he leaned in a bit closer to Feldor. "And I don't think we were the only ones summoned, either," he said, almost in a whisper.<br><br>He stepped back and shoved his hands into his pockets with a shrug, giving the Elf a chance to absorb his words. He didn't really want to tell anyone of his encounter with the roadside prophet, at least not until he better understood the old man's words, but Feldor at least seemed reasonably trustworthy. Well, as much as one could be after being acquainted for only a few minutes. Zedd supposed it was Feldor's tiger that engendered his trust; the beast was clearly more intelligent than its mundane counterparts, and Zedd refused to believe that such a noble-seeming creature would willingly serve an evil master. He glanced around to see if the great cat had returned yet with their new guest, but was once again greeted with the sight of only the empty clearing.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4283703#msg4283703">Quote from: Elf on 20-02-2011, 18:58:30</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">Remaining silent for a moment Feldor’s eyes lose their focus as he ponders some distant thoughts. Looking up at Zedd with a new determination in his eyes he says, “Zedd, you seem to have a natural affinity for the magics of this world, but lack training. If you wish and time permits I would be honored to teach you what I can.”<br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>At Feldor's offer, Zedd felt himself turn red for a few brief moments. Lacked training, did he? Years of magical theory and practice, relentless drills by countless tutors and teachers throughout his childhood, the harsh cruelty of some of their lessons enough to give even a Drow pause, and he lacked training? A cold reply was forming in his mind, and would have escaped his mouth if the memory of the node's grasp weren't still so fresh in his thoughts. Considering that Feldor had just seen him get knocked onto his ass by the power of the ley lines, Zedd realized the Elf's offer was in fact exceedingly generous. A bolt of shame shot through him at his initial reaction, mingled with gratitude that he'd managed to stop his foolish pride from making an ass out of himself any further.<br><br>"That would be most welcome, Feldor. And appreciated. I would be honored to learn whatever you may teach--" Zedd's words were cut off by the sound of tromping boots and jangling armor from behind them. He noticed Feldor's expression, now fixed on the newcomer approaching from Zedd's back, and turned to see a huge, cloaked beast of a man stomping through the wildflowers of the clearing. He carried a massive spear in one hand, and his cloak, which looked too heavy to billow in even the hardest winds, seemed to hang from his frame like a funereal curtain. The occasional flash of dull bronze or brass glinted beneath the cape on his left arm; some sort of shield, likely. Aside from the single greave and the leg gauntlets, the man appeared otherwise un-armored. Just the sight of him was enough to make Zedd's skin crawl.<br><br>Zedd gritted his teeth a little as the man reached them and then proceeded to launch into a long-winded and convoluted tirade, from which Zedd could only glean three facts: his name was Talos Vern, a servant of Hades; he was clearly exceedingly arrogant; and he seemed to have absolutely no respect for anyone or anything that crossed his path. For a moment, Zedd considered taking umbrage at the man's crass attitude toward both him and the Lady Artemis, but dismissed his ire; whatever their purpose in the clearing, he was certain the gods had not sent them to argue over whose deity was better, and he had no desire to engage in ridiculous arguments or childish name-calling. Besides, though Talos seemed to be a powerful and capable warrior, he also appeared to be a witless buffoon with the brains of a horse-cake. If this was what Hades had chosen for a champion, perhaps this quest would not be so terrible, after all.<br><br>Just as he was about to offer the rude man a welcome -- just because Talos was an asshole was no reason to imitate him, after all -- Feldor's tiger returned to his side, and the crackling of a few dry twigs alerted them to the newest arrival nearby. Zedd looked all around, finally spotting a small face peeking out from behind one of the mammoth trees. He raised one hand in greeting and gave a wave, and wore what he hoped was a friendly smile with no trace of his recent annoyance.<br><br>"Hello, over there! Welcome. Please, won't you join us?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>26-02-2011, 13:47:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Phaedra turned around to look behind her, hoping the man waving wasn’t waving at her, but she was the only person there, so he must have spotted her.&nbsp; She moved forward hesitantly, feeling very vulnerable as she left the shelter of the trees and walking into the clearing.<br><br>Power seemed to sizzle around her, although she wasn’t sure where it was coming from, she just knew she had never been so aware of the earth’s latent force before.&nbsp; She approached the group of men very warily, as they looked fearsome, carrying weapons like warriors, and she wondered what they were doing in such a peaceful, beautiful location.&nbsp; The tiger was with them, and seemed to stay close to the white haired elf.<br><br>As she neared the group she responded to the hail, her sweet voice echoing softly around the clearing.<br><br>“Hello!&nbsp; Isn’t this the most beautiful place?”&nbsp; <br><br>She thought that was the safest reply, as she didn’t know why she was there, or why they were there, and she wasn’t going to give away too much information about herself, until she knew they were friendly and meant her no harm.&nbsp; The tiger had scared her, but he didn’t seem to be dangerous, so it seemed likely that the elf wouldn’t be a danger, and the man the hailed her seemed to have a friendly smile, but the third man made her feel very uneasy. <em>…very cold and lethal…</em> She wondered where that thought came from, but that was definitely the feeling she was getting.&nbsp; <br><br>Her heart was beating fast as she got close, and she was desperately wondering why the goddess had sent her to this place.&nbsp; &nbsp;The others didn’t look as if they served Persephone, so why were they here?<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Xilian</strong> on <strong>26-02-2011, 14:24:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96676.msg4284004#msg4284004">Quote from: Narianna on 20-02-2011, 20:55:09</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div align="center"><br><div align="center">Zilior Vinezian (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4200150#msg4200150)</div><br>Selena struggled with her bonds as the next man stumbled down the stairs. She started, jumping slightly, as Zilior took out the second man. She reached down and fumbled as much as she could with the mantle the man had given her. He wasn’t big but Selena’s frame was so small and lithe that the mere mantle draped over her was enough to cover her nudity.<br><br>“S-Sir?” Selena stammered. “I seem to be still bound… Could you set me free?”<br></div></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div>Zilior frowned at the woman struggling to get out of her bonds.<br>He walked back to the bed, bended over and started untying the rope.<br>The knot was apparently made quickly so it loosened easily.<br>He made one last pull and Selena was set free.<br>'Let's not waste any more time in here.'<br>He wanted to start running and then suddenly stopped.<br>'Selena... where do you keep the water in this inn?'<br>The faerie replied 'Grandpapa always kept...' She paused, 'he used to keep the water in the well in the backyard.'<br>Zilior nodded and grabbed his second dagger. He lost the first one when he was knocked unconscious.<br>'It'll go faster if you stay here.' He said before running up the stairs and leaving Selena alone before she could protest.<br><br>Zilior sneaked trough a corridor leading to the kitchen. He must have taken the wrong door.<br>Now that he was here he might as well just look for something edible. Who knows when it would come in handy?<br>After searching for a while he found a bread, two eggs and a bar of chocolate.<br>There must have been more, but he couldn't carry much more anyway so he continued his way to the backyard.<br>Starting from the kitchen he didn't have to search long to find the backdoor. He ran towards the well, pulled up the bucket with water and made his way back to the kitchen. Before entering the room he stopped and listened carefully. There was someone inside... He took a quick look to see who his opponent would be. It was an extremely large man. He carried his unwashed hair in a ponytail. His black shirt was worn out and had holes in it. Then his belt... His belt! He wore Zilior's dagger on his belt! Zilior scratched his chin. he should earn his dagger back in a fair fight.<br>'Hey there! That dagger you're wearing belongs to me and I'm willing to fight over it!' He shouted.<br>The large man drew the dagger and Zilior immediately responded by doing the same<br>The giant was completely open and Zilior was thinking about how to kill him. he had many options in that mather.<br>Just in time he saw an oblong thing being trowed at him. The half-elf dodged quickly and took a fighting stance.<br><br>What's this? The dagger lay in front of him. Maybe the man hadn't aimed for Zilior?<br>Suddenly the man fell on his knees and said, 'Please don't hurt me! I'm sorry! I beg of you!'<br>Zilior frowned. Was this man... scared? A little uncomfortable, Zilior picked up the sword.<br>He stepped towards the large man who seemed to be crying a little and hit him with the flat side of his dagger. He couldn't possibly kill such a helpless man so knocking him unconscious would be sufficient.<br>Zilior stepped over the man and started making his way back to Selena.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AngelsDemonsCode</strong> on <strong>27-02-2011, 04:27:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><em>Island of Crete, Antheia attempting to escape her home due to a pirate invasion.</em></strong><br><hr><hr><br><div class="floatleft">(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_M3vSUeszLWY/RtRuB6jcJaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/jF9DSrD8C-A/nm_greece_fire1_070828_ssh.jpg)</div> She was so close to the boat that her heart was hurting her ribcage at the moment. Antheia was heading to the nearest boat that had no people when a group of pirates rushed out of the nowhere, apparently in the direction of something that angered them judging by the swords they were waving and curses they were spewing in anger and retaliation. She didn't care to turn her head, knowing that it wasn't her matter for the time being. Whatever it was, it didn't involve her and she shouldn't be involving herself in it.<br><br>The sudden appearance of them made her stop in her tracks and she cursed under her breathe for the misfortune. That was a close call, Antheia mused to herself as she resumed walking in her slow but brisk pace. She had hardly gotten four steps forward when she finally let her curiosity get the better of her, damn it!, and make her look to see what those pirates were chasing after. <br><br>knew she shouldn't, it could be a woman or person of her island in distress, but she had to know why they were suddenly forming into a group and attacking as one. <br><br>They were all over the place at the moment, chasing or killing in ones or twos, so it didn't make sense. Why suddenly join together now? It simply didn't make sense and her mind refused to leave that as it was. She just had to know.<br><br>Antheia turned. What she saw made her blood run cold.<br><br>A man. It was a man. He certainly wasn't from Crete but he didn't wear what the pirates were wearing. Close to him was the body of a dead pirate, a trident sticking out of his chest as blood bubbled over from the chest wounds and his mouth, and she realized that he had killed him. No wonder the other pirates were chasing after him. Their weapons were raised and Antheia closed her eyes, not wanting to see the massacre, and she heard the pirates cry out... in pain and surprise. Her eyes and flew open and just in time to see the stranger kill them with both precision and strength. The pirates, used to using brute force and nothing more, were not ready for the man's speed and grace and intelligence. They were dead in a manner of seconds and the cloaked invisible Antheia had to register in her mind.<br><br>Information, she told herself. She needed to gather information first before she did anything reckless. She looked at the score of dead pirates around the man, noting that he was obviously not from Crete or anywhere near the island. The trident was the second thing she noticed. You couldn't blame here. It was sticking out of a dead name's now bloody chest. It looked familiar and the statues in the school came into her mind.<br><br><em>A follower of Poseidon?</em> She realized that question was rather dumb because, really, what other God of the Oceans had a symbol that was a trident? No one else. The more important question was, <em>Is he really helping us or simply trying to gain the destruction for himself? But he was defending something... but what? Someone from the island?</em><br><br>Was he a friend or foe? His eyes said he was a friend, someone who did not enjoy the slaughter here but was disgusted, sickened even, by it. But one could be fooled. She touched her hammer and frowned. Only one way to find out. She pulled out her hammer, her Gift from Hephaestus, and quietly walked to where he was. The sounds of the battles and screams drowned out her footsteps and even her clumsy fumbling as she pulled the hammer out. She pressed the hammer's head against the man's back, putting pressure on it to let him know that, no, this was not an illusion.<br><br>"You! Don't make a sound!" Antheia warned, not really wanting to harm the person but just in case. She sounded stern but not dangerous, the Crete accent coming into her words. "Who are you, good sir? Are you a follower of the pirates or someone attempting to help the people here?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nooblet</strong> on <strong>27-02-2011, 05:56:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Gerik; on Crete</strong></span></div>____________________________________________<br><br>&nbsp; Gerik was letting his breathing even out, his body somewhat weary from the battle. Once he had rested enough Gerik stood straighter, once again looking sadly at the destruction. As anger roiled inside, Gerik went to step forward on his way to kill more bandits, he felt a hard and blunt object placed against his back.<br>&nbsp; Gerik's first instinct was to make the fool pay for not striking him with what he assumed was a hammer or club, and he gripped his trident, ready to twist suddenly and swipe the person's feet away. However he didn't get to as the person spoke, revealing it as a her, and from the way she spoke she was a native on Crete. He relaxed his body, trying to appear harmless, as much as one could while holding a weapon that is.<br>&nbsp; "I assure you fair maiden, I've no inclination to do harm to any who do not deserve it. Myself and my fellows have come seeking repairs, and are now exterminating these vermin who have so plagued Crete," he answered truthfully, turning his head to look back at her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>27-02-2011, 09:08:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702) in the clearing with Zedd, Phaedra, and Akribos</div><br>When the extremely large man enters the clearing and starts a rather long winded and disrespectful speech, Feldor stands back up. Listening to the speech he begins to dislike the man more with each word spoken. When Seiceron returns to his side he smiles his approval to his friend, but keeps his attention on the huge warrior. At the mention of the different deities the others serve, he opens himself up was again to magic around him searching for the distinctive tone of the deities.<br><br>Looking directly into Talos’ eyes Feldor says, “I am Feldor Kelmaric. I didn’t bother to check before, but I do sense something of both Artemis and Persephone about the others. I’m sure the one I serve is just as plain on me, but you failed to mention Athena. You Talos are an enigma I can get no sense of any deity from you. This suggests to me that you have something to hide.” He pauses for a moment placing his hand on Seiceron’s back to quiet the low growl just beginning to build in the tiger’s chest. “As for our mission here I know nothing of this. I did not even know others were sent. I doubt this great evil you speak of is here. I am willing to be patient until the reason we were called here is fully revealed. I would have thought that one as old as you claim and appear to be would have learned the value of patience. Certainly an experienced warrior would have learned that not all battles can be won by immediate action.”<br><br>Turning to look at the woman Feldor smiles warmly saying, “Hello, Yes this is a very beautiful place. A place to match your own beauty.” He bows to her. “I am Feldor, this gentleman is Zedd, and the other is Talos. You must the one I sensed arriving via the great oaks, whom I asked Seiceron to guide here. Am I correct in presuming that Persephone came to you and dib you to come here?”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>27-02-2011, 11:34:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The way the three came into view, now that Akribos knew there were only three, the fourth he felt was the animal itself, it was obvious it was bonded to the elf. A strange culture that was not around in his mortal days, but he enjoyed the strength which they held for their long mortal lives. They were as wise as they were steady with a bow from his knowledge, although many of them were also very distrusting and thieves themselves, though this one seemed more of their mage types. The wand gave it away. The boy Zedd spoke and made Akribos snapped his head to glare at the boy with his stare as he towered over the boy like man. Then Akribos held back his snarl as he realized he hadn't heard the boy speak, he had sensed his attitude with his scent, a gift and a curse. Often it drove Akribos mad to not mix up what he felt and what was actually said. <br><br>Sighing and turning his gaze to the elf as he spoke he smirked and nodded as he shrugged his cloak from his left arm and exposed his entire body to them, reveling his golden bronzed armor over his left arm and shoulder and neck, no doubt looked ancient in comparison to the current times since bronze was outdated with steel and so on and so forth. Setting his shield down with the front facing up, an ancient sign of a true warrior who respected his shield. Switching his spear to his left hand he walked one step forward and extended his arm to the elf staring down at him, "A true warrior in my time fought till dead, to hell with the enemies plans. Brute force works every time, it just needs enough pressure." Smiling, though no one could see it he nodded to the elf with his hand out waiting for him to take it. "A warriors respect is what I offer, nothing less and nothing more. Feldor Kelmaric pleasure to meet a mage with some balls behind his words. Secondly don't ever assume to know a thing about me or my time, the dead rarely like being brought to the living."<br><br>Standing before the boy and the new arrival of the woman, who had a quarter at least of Dyrad in her. His eyes glanced over her body as he nodded slightly to her "As for you respects m'lady, yes I am cold and I am lethal, but do not assume to know which side you have not seen. And as for you Feldor Kelmaric I show no diety because I no longer worship one, I live my death in the underworld, Hades re birthed one of his long passed generals, but don't worry, if I am to much trouble, I am sure you can kill me as any other man, one the the side effects of Hades holding your leash." Akribos watched their eyes and stayed still as he watched the elf and smirked at the growling tiger.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>01-03-2011, 18:41:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The girl felt very uncomfortable as she walked in to what seemed like an argument.&nbsp; She wasn’t one for arguing, she preferred to discuss things in a civilised manner, and then agree to differ, but the dark brooding man seemed to be also aggressive.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: Elf</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"> Turning to look at the woman Feldor smiles warmly saying, “Hello, Yes this is a very beautiful place. A place to match your own beauty.” He bows to her. “I am Feldor, this gentleman is Zedd, and the other is Talos. You must the one I sensed arriving via the great oaks, whom I asked Seiceron to guide here. Am I correct in presuming that Persephone came to you and bid you to come here?”</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>“Yes, she did, but how did you know that?”&nbsp; Phaedra was very confused now she had got here, and found these others, wondering what the goddess had in store for her, and if the others were serving other deities, why they had all been called to this particular spot.<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote from: MarcothTalos</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"> Standing before the boy and the new arrival of the woman, who had a quarter at least of Dyrad in her. His eyes glanced over her body as he nodded slightly to her "As for you respects m'lady, yes I am cold and I am lethal, but do not assume to know which side you have not seen.</blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>She was even more discomfited when Talos let her know that he had somehow picked up the strange thought that she had heard in her head, and wondered what kind of magic gave him that ability.<br>Unconsciously she stepped closer to the man called Zedd, and away from the other two.&nbsp; She wasn’t a fighter, had no weapons, and didn’t want to be involved if a fight broke out.&nbsp; The atmosphere seemed to be so fraught that it was a possibility, but at least Talos had held his hand out to Feldor, and Feldor had quietened the great cat, so she was hopefully nothing was going to kick off.<br><br>She frowned slightly as she heard him mention Hades, because although she had no particular affinity for him herself, her Goddess was his wife, so she would hear nothing bad about him, in deference to Persephone.&nbsp; She was even more confused as he was now saying he served no deity, so why was he here?<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>01-03-2011, 19:40:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702) in the clearing with Zedd, Phaedra, and Akribos</div><br>Turning back to face Talos once again Feldor steps forward. As he is extending his hand to take the one offered by the huge warrior he grounds and centers himself and mentally prepares to draw the strength of the Earth into himself just in case the brute decides to turn the hand shake into a test of strength. He does not touch the node or any of the ley lines. Taking Talos’ hand he says, “A warrior’s respect is accepted and being a warrior as well as mage it is returned in kind.”<br><br>Smiling at the woman Feldor says, “I did not know. I can sense the touch of Persephone about you and you went to great lengths to get here. Athena came to me and asked that I come here and seeing that we are all here each representing a different deity, I figured it a safe bet that we each have been sent here by whichever deity we serve.” Changing his stance to include all three he continues, “I was not told to expect others but seeing as we are all here I now expect that there will be more coming. There are still many of the deities that are not represented here yet. I suspect that we will not discover the reason for us being here until all have arrived. Therefore I suggest that make ourselves a comfortable as possible and be patient until then.”<br><br><div align="center">Zentius Yerodin (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199711#msg4199711) flying over the Nevada desert</div><br>The hours seem to creep by as the desert terrain below goes by almost in blur of speed as Zentius sets with his legs crossed on the carpet. The speed with which he is traveling has pushed the hood from his head and his hair and cloak flap the wake of his passage. At first it was exhilarating, but as morning passes into afternoon his legs start to cramp up. As the afternoon turns into evening his exposed skin has become tender and overly sensitive from the sun and the wind and his legs have gone from cramping to being completely numb. As the sun is beginning to set he is grateful to see the mountains are very close and he begins searching for an inn to spend the night at.<br><br>Finally spotting a small settlement in the foothills Zentius alters his course slightly to head towards it. Bringing the carpet to ground several hundred from the nearest building he stands slowly forcing his numb and stiff legs to work properly a groan escapes from him. After stretching his legs and back he rolls the three foot by four foot rug up and slips it into his bag of holding. He smiles as he approaches the settlement seeing that its primary purpose to serve travelers and heads straight towards the inn. Just before entering the common room he does his best to fix his windswept hair and pulls on the hood of his cloak up to hide his face.<br><br>Stepping in Zentius stops in the entrance and scans the room, which is about half filled with other travelers. There are two people tending the long bar and half a dozen serving girls moving about seeing to the needs of their customers. Picking a dark corner from which he can see all the access points to the room he moves to the table and sets with has back to the wall. Shortly after setting one of the serving girls approaches him saying, “Welcome traveler. What can I get for you, si…” Starting to say sir she stops as she realizes that she cannot tell if he is a man or a woman under the cloak.<br><br>“Thank you. I would like a meal and will need a room for the night.”<br><br>Hearing his voice she is certain that he is male and says, “Yes, sir. What would you like to eat? Do you need a private room or just a bed in the common area?”<br><br>“Just bring me whatever the cook has prepared, some bread and cheese, and a glass of wine. I require a private room. The only sharing I would be interested in would be with a lovely lady like yourself, which would be best done in private.”<br><br>With a slight blush she curtsies saying, “I will get your meal straight away and see to your room.” She moves off quickly heading towards the kitchen stopping at the bar to briefly talk to the man working there. She disappears into the kitchen reappearing a moment later carrying a tray. As she passes the bar the man places something on the tray. Arriving back at Zentius’ table she places the tray on the table. “There you go, Sir. I hope you enjoy.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>02-03-2011, 05:36:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- One little, two little, three little deities...<br><br>The soft-eyed beauty peeked out from behind her hiding spot and slowly made her way over to them, clearly ready to bolt at the first sign of trouble. Zedd could hardly blame her; with Talos standing anywhere near at all, he wanted to be somewhere else. He glanced over and nudged Feldor softly on the arm after the Elf welcomed the young woman into their company. "Smooth as buttered glass, you are, eh, amigo?" Zedd murmured with an amused glint in his eyes.<br><br>Upon Feldor's declaration of the identities of both Zedd's and the young lady's patron deities, Zedd was considerably impressed. That Talos had done the same earlier held little mystery; if he truly had been dredged up from Tartarus as he claimed, then naturally he would have some manner of ghostly or augmented sense of the presence of the gods. But for someone living to detect the faint traces of a divine touch was rather remarkable. It spoke of much greater acumen and a far more delicate control over magical energies than Zedd had originally given Feldor credit for, and that was saying something. He would definitely have to find time to take the Elf up on his offer for lessons. <br><br>He shoved his hands back into his deep pockets and stepped around to Feldor's other side, distancing himself a little more from the muscle-bound Talos; the (dead? Undead?) warrior had rather pointedly not extended a handshake toward Zedd, and that was just fine with him. Zedd was a lot of things, but a warrior was not one of them, and he had neither need nor wish for 'a warrior's respect'. Just plain respect would do, and Talos plainly had little of that to offer anyone. It was unfortunately clear that the two would probably not get along well. Then again, Zedd had trouble imagining anyone Talos would get along with.<br><br>It was also clear that the poor girl was more than a little shaken by Talos' words. He offered her his hand and moved a little in front of her, trying to block the great man-mountain from her sight. "Don't worry, senorita; so far he is, how you say, all bark," Zedd said with a hint of a playful grin. He glanced over at Feldor again and nodded. "Like I said...definitely more coming." Overhead, the sound of a raven's call high in the boughs filtered down below, and Zedd glanced skyward.<br><br><strong><br>Caw! Caw!<br><br>Caw! Caw!<br><br>Caw! Caw!<br><br>Caw!<br></strong><br><br>There was no sight of the bird, only the wide open sky. Zedd blinked away the brightness and brought his attentions back down to earth. <em>'Yep. Definitely more coming...'</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>02-03-2011, 15:35:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Grinning, though with his wraps no one could tell, Akribos nodded to the younger Elf, well younger than himself at least. Pushing the handshake up to here their hands gripped each others forearms for a proper general's shake. Smirking loudly as the Elf said the words 'A warrior’s respect is accepted and being a warrior as well as mage it is returned in kind.' with such offered peace though with a blade behind his back. Well not a blade for the Elf rather the way the air smelled when magic was at work, the way his body tingled when it happen around him. Glaring at the Elf he laughed with his next comment. "Offer the hand of the Trojan's eh sir? Keeping your posturing to yourself, I haven't exactly come to beat a mage in front of Hades' wife's servant's now. I don't get out of hell much as you can tell, so why don't we just say I would like to stay out, even if it is just to beat the Sarian's down to the ground and watch them bleed out." Akribos inwardly laughed at the way he sounded, he often found it funny how the Greek's spoke, and when they threatened others with their feminine features and likewise voices. <br><br>Looking the Elf over he motioned his hand to him as he released the shake. "I can see where the elf would look first though, the women always catch the eye's that wander, I prefer the ones that you can pay to get rid of. They are often much better than the offers of the rather annoying wives of today. Although it is not my place to say much else on the lady, she can pick who she would enjoy waiting for the upcoming battle here. Assuming she even knows there is going to be one."<br><br>Akribos turned his head quickly towards the small man speaking in the now Spanish accent of some kind, funny thing that he didn't pick up on it right away until now, he was busy with making sure the big fuck you was stamped firmly on his forehead so they wouldn't ask much. After all, Turael said watch them for now, battle would come soon. Akribos walked slowly towards his shield and picked it up before driving his spear tip up into the ground as the back end also had a smaller spear head. He felt the young man's anger towards him already, but to outright say it within ten feet of him. The bastard wanted respect, he would give him a beating of respect. Gritting his teeth he walked towards the man holding his shield by the arm sheath inside that he had made for himself, his blood pumping as he stopped just behind him towering over him. <br><br>"All bark? Well pardon me sir, allow me to show you how when I was alive we would treat whelps eh?" Grabbing the man in a blur of motion, another gift from his old Titan god, he lifted him up almost gently as he held him directly infront of his face by the back of his vest, grabbing it by the arm holes causing it to grip tight on his arms so he wouldn't fall through it as he gripped it with his large hand. "Listen up whelp, pout like a child and then talk about the big new scary guy right while he is standing a short ten feet away, well sir, you might just find yourself in Tartarus along side me for the rest of your existence. Now mind your manner and cheer up, you might find it good to have me around when the blood starts, because there will be plenty of it...." <br><br>Slowly lowering the young man back on his feet he let go of his vest and glared at him while he kept his shield to the side, his sword now exposed on his left hip with his shield next to it on his left arm. "Try to open that Spaniard mouth of yours in disrespect again, and I assure you that I will find you after this duty is over before Hades brings me back to hell, eh?" Nodding to the woman behind him he laughed lightly while looking at the two of them, "Cute would be the word one would use here eh? Yeah, definitely cute, describes a rather odd pairing of innocence and a virgin, trust me lady he ain't the innocent one. "
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>02-03-2011, 20:10:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">Feldor Kelmaric (http://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=96661.msg4199702#msg4199702) in the clearing with Zedd, Phaedra, and Akribos</div><br>Looking up at the bigger man as they clasp arms Feldor replies, “There is no hidden threat here. I am trained as a warrior as well as a mage. I simply seek to bolster my defenses should it prove necessary. I do not know you well enough yet to be sure you will not be like so many others who feel that brute force will solve all their problems and always seek to prove they are the strongest. You should take it as another show of respect as I acknowledge your greater physical prowess. I am not a coward to pretend peace and attack from surprise, but neither am I a fool to completely let my guard down simply at the offer of peace from a stranger.”<br><br>Rolling his eyes as Talos picks Zedd up Feldor having served as a commander of troops before takes a tone of military authority. “Talos! If you want others to treat you with respect, you must treat them with respect! You have shown nothing but a complete lack of respect for him since you arrived! You cannot expect him to treat you any differently! I do not know what it was like when you first walked among the living or what it has been like among the dead, but obviously things are different now. You really NEED to learn how to deal with people! You may have been a general once, but now you are just a soldier until the gods appoint you a higher ranking! YOU ARE NOT in command here and neither of them have military training!” Still being grounded and centered he mentally reaches out and takes hold of the node allowing its great power to flow through him. His hair starts move from the energy almost standing on its own and his eyes actually glow with their own light. In a voice now deepened to a very low bass he continues, “I do not want to turn this into a pissing match, but if it is what you want, you will lose!” Examining the man with his mage sight and needing to use some of the node’s energy he rises several feet off the ground and continues, “I can sense the power of an immortal coursing through you, but I can also see the source of the power! It will be no problem to remove your mask and rip that from your flesh stripping you of that divine power!”<br><br>Still hovering with excess energy crackling around him Feldor’s voice while still charged with power returns more to his normal pitch. “It was not my intent to establish myself as the alpha male, especially in such a dramatic way, but you seem to be wanting to force such a display.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>02-03-2011, 23:25:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- Feeding the troll<br><br>Zedd's attention was once again torn away from the lovely woman in front of him, this time by the sensation of the ground falling away from his feet. His vest tightened in the back, and hard, calloused knuckles pressed into his spine. An irritated sigh escaped his lips; with as many bar fights as he'd been in (been in, hell...started, more like), he was depressingly familiar with the feeling of being picked up bodily like a wayward puppy by some thundering lunkhead. The years of experience had taught him that the best reaction was usually no reaction at all.<br><br>He crossed his arms and his ankles loosely, swinging in the light noon breeze as he hung from Talos' titanic grip, a bored expression carefully plastered over his face. He glanced back over his shoulder and confirmed his suspicions; sure enough, he was about to launch into another hot-aired speech. '<em>They must have been his trademark when he was living. 'S no wonder he died; probably couldn't shut up long enough to defend himself</em>!' The feel of Talos' hot, stinking breath on the back of his neck made Zedd stifle a revolted shudder.<br><br>At Talos' words, Zedd let out a bark of laughter. "Mind my manners? Well, of <strong>course</strong>, oh great one! I would never <em>dream </em>to be considered rude to such a paragon of etiquette as yourself! Hey, Feldor, did you hear that? I was impolite! Can you imagine? Boy, is my face red or what! Oh, I must have hurt the widdle warrior's feelings! My <em>apologies</em>, Talos, good sir, I implore your forgiveness." Mirth and sarcasm practically dripped from his words as he hung in the air, seemingly oblivious to his predicament. If it weren't for Talos' implacable grip on his vest, Zedd may well have collapsed in a fit of laughter.<br><br>His feet again on solid ground, Zedd spun and looked up at the towering strongman, his expression a bit darker now that his back was to the young woman. Talos' death threat, while chilling, was nothing he hadn't heard before. His voice lowered slightly, so that only Talos could hear him. "Fine, then. Now <em>you </em>listen. I'm sure that in your glory days, you must have met at least <em>one </em>gentleman that you didn't outright slaughter because he looked at you funny. So I'll thank you to try, <strong>try</strong>, to remember his sort of behavior, and imitate it as best you can manage. Otherwise, if you feel you can't maintain even a modicum of civility, then while you are still welcome to remain with us, I invite you to <strong>shut your damn mouth</strong> and allow us to travel in peace."<br><br>From the look on Talos' face, there was little doubt Zedd had made himself an enemy. Whether it was one he would survive, only time would tell. '<em>Ah, hell with it. Everyone dies eventually</em>,' he thought. '<em>May as well die of something interesting</em>.' He was fully prepared to goad the big man into further aggression, but Feldor's booming voice and barely suppressed power suggested it might be wise to start toning things down. As frustrating as Talos was, Zedd held too much respect for the Elf to quarrel any further. Besides, if it came down to it he would much rather have sided with Feldor than the brute, and he had a feeling that the Elf could make good on his own threat.<br><br>Zedd cleared his throat and addressed both the young woman and the two other men. "So, lady and gentlemen. Shall we sit and make camp, enjoy each other's company?" He looked back at Feldor and Talos. "Or do we need to kill each other first?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>03-03-2011, 00:01:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Phaedra nodded at Zedd’s words “I think it would be a very good idea if we all calmed down, perhaps sat down together and had something to eat and drink.&nbsp; We’ve all&nbsp; been summoned here for a purpose, and our deities probably want us to work together or they wouldn’t have got us together in the same location, so let’s try and get on, guys!”&nbsp; She rolled her eyes at all three of them.<br><br>“Talos you’re big and hard and very scary, but put Zedd down, he meant no disrespect, he was joking. Didn’t you see his smile?&nbsp; Feldor, you’re obviously powerful, you don’t need to show off, we get it. And Zedd, well don’t taunt the bear unless you want to get mauled!”<br><br>She rooted in her pack as she spoke, and pulled out a cloth which she spread on the ground. Bread and cheese were set out, and she began to break the bread into chunks, holding them out, for each man in turn.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AngelsDemonsCode</strong> on <strong>03-03-2011, 14:31:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong><em>Island of Crete, Antheia attempting to escape her home due to a pirate invasion.</em></strong><br><hr><hr><br><div class="floatleft">(http://lh4.ggpht.com/_M3vSUeszLWY/RtRuB6jcJaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/jF9DSrD8C-A/nm_greece_fire1_070828_ssh.jpg)</div> Antheia smiled when he said 'fair maiden' for she wasn't really that pretty. Maybe, when she wasn't covered in soot and ashes and oil and when she remembered to take a bath.<br><br>Unlike the other women here on Crete, which at the moment was a blessing in disguise considering what was happening to them at the moment. Once more, she ignored their distant screams to concentrate on the person - She should truly ask this man's name soon - before her. He didn't attack her, which was a good thing in her opinion. He was poised to strike but then waited, even better. It meant he could both plan and action. She needed that very badly right now.<br><br>From what she can tell, he was a good man and seemed alright. Her voice, her reason, told her to be wary and to analyze. So far, he made it in her evaluation. He was strong in built but also with the composed grace of a person who has been doing this for a while. He had intelligence and culture in his voice, but also an edgier quality that spoke of his experience on the seas (perhaps). <br><br>He didn't attack her when she revealed she was a woman and there was honesty in his voice when he explained why he was here. Pity the man, for he had thought he could come to Crete to rest himself from an attack only to find himself in another one. <br><br>It was a bit ironic, if she was using the word correctly, but a blessing in her eyes. Man was a capable fighter as seen here and the trident in his hands, it seemed to be a powerful weapon even contrast to its looks. If a fight came to him, no doubt he will be the won still standing. He claimed to have come from another ship, meaning there would be more space for the people of Crete to get on to escape. If she could convince him to help her, that is. She was certain that she could. He seemed like an honorable man and, if she had to, she was willing to make him weapons to solidify his help in this situation.<br><br>She needed all the help she could get to get others and her out of here before the pirates burned everything, and everyone, down to the ground to hide their crimes. When he turned, he would mostly likely see nothing but, if he could, a pair of faint, translucent eyes of sharp blue. That is, if the smoke and ashes and dust didn't get in the way. She wouldn't be surprised if he didn't and she also wouldn't be surprised if he could. Her cloak was still on her person, keeping her invisible but the closeness of her voice betrayed her location. She made a note to do something about that one weakness soon, since it would be a hazard especially if it was an echoing cave or any sorts like that.<br><br>"There are too many of them," Antheia said sadly, knowing the truth. Crete was now gone, in the hands of these awful people. "Even if you and your crew were rested well after your trip, they outnumber you much good sir. I... <em>We</em> must escape from the island while we still have time." <br><br>She gestured to his ship, the only one that didn't look ominous but welcoming in this time of peril, and to the other pirate ship that was unoccupied. Realizing he couldn't see her hands, she said. "We could either take your boat, that one there, or the unguarded that they were foolish enough to leave without safety. I will not go unless I can rescue all the people that I can from this tragedy," she stated firmly. "Please, help me. In return, I will make you a shield that will never break no matter the damage or anything you wish to be crafted. I am a master craftswoman. It is the reason why I am invisible."<br><br>"Follower of Poseidon," she said, taking a gamble on who he worshiped. "Please, help me save these souls that we can save before it is too late. I must go to the Redwoods Forest but I will not leave until every soul that I can help is saved one way or another. I will do anything, good sir. I vow on my fellowship as Hephaestus, Antheia Aiolos, on this statement. I beg of you, please." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nooblet</strong> on <strong>03-03-2011, 16:03:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span class="bbc_u"><strong>Gerik: Speaking with Antheia</strong></span></div>________________________________________________<br><br>&nbsp; As Gerik turned to look behind him his eyes visibly widened as he saw naught but two luminescent eyes staring back at him. Gerik was wary of magic, not having had good experiences with it in the past, but he quelled his own mistrusts, arguing that he had unleashed some of the most potent magics he'd ever seen out on the ocean not long ago. Gerik turned to face where the woman's voice, and those eyes, were coming from, his face void of any surprise or mistrust of magics now.<br>&nbsp; He listened attentively as she spoke, nodding lightly. Even he, still affected by bloodlust, could tell there was little hope in defeating so many vermin. He suppressed a frown as she offered her services. Gerik had thought her some sort of mage, and still did, ant her crafting equipment was a bit of a surprise. However, Gerik wasn't sure if a shield would suit his fighting style. Of course none of that mattered, he wasn't looking for rewards when he aided people, and this wouldn't be different.<br>&nbsp; "I thank you for your offer fair...Antheia," Gerik thought that was what she had called herself.<br>&nbsp; "However, I seek no reward for giving aid, I give it freely. You've my word that I, and the men of Sea's Wrath, will rescue as many as we can. The rest...I pray to Poseidon they escape to the hills and hide away," he informed her, confirming her suspicions of his deity, saying the last part gravely.<br>&nbsp; "Come, I'll take you to the captain, there you can await safely for us to get the villagers we can. Ah! My name is Gerik Seaborn, pleased to make your acquaintance fair mage Antheia," Gerik had started towards the ship before turning back to her, remembering to introduce himself with a small bow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>13-03-2011, 21:06:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Grinning he laughed at the smaller man Zedd who stood up to him, well sort of. More so just shunned him off to avoid the fight, it was good to do so anyways, Akribos was being rather forceful, but they worship the Olympians, it was hard for him not to lash out. Smirking he nodded to the young man and laughed as he spoke. "Talk is cheap, especially with overly wordy dramatic displays of gesture to get the woman to like ya more sir. How about do it this way eh? You don't disrespect someone you know nothing about and I assure you that we will get along fine. Got some spunk in ya for such a tiny shit i will give ya that." Smirking he smacked with his large bear of a hand against the man's shoulder, no doubt probably too hard. "You're alright shorty." Staring at the Elf as he turned into some kind of wannabe demon, the being didn't know what hell was, but he had power, he would be the first target to kill once the battles began.<br><br>As the elf mentioned his 'mask' Akribos tilted his head slightly as he faces the man hovering above the ground, and Akribos could also see where most of that power shower was coming from. The tingle of mage working all around him and it came from the center of the circle, and then centered on the Elf. Akribos smiled at the display, the elf was sharp, especially when he mention that alpha male was he, the youngster didn't know what he was or who he was. All he knew was that he was as powerful as he showed, which wasn't much, after a few thousand years it was a neat trick to be able to conceal his nature and couldn't sense which side he was loyal to. No doubt he would buy the story, his own thoughts shouted at Akribos as he laughed again and walked up slowly before shooting the dryad a glance, "I would say the lady is the smartest of us overly posturing men eh?"<br><br>Stopping a foot in front of the elf he looked slightly up at the man as he hovered his eyes visible at this close, the deep dark blue of his eyes flashed over once, like a mist of color for his iris'. "Alpha male? Hmmmm, let me think this one through eh?" His head never moved he just looked into the man's eyes for a moment and glared at his soul, he would have loved to rip it out. "How about you drop yourself to the ground mage, try and claim that I am something I am not, that is just rude." Laughing lightly Akribos continued. "Look here elf, I don't serve the gods, I am a slave of them, and I am happy to be back from hell, but I ain't one who allows a boy to insult something he doesn't even comprehend on any level. How about you drop your posturing I drop mine eh?"<br><br>Extending his right hand once again for the elf as he continued to stare at the elf, "Just believe me when I say this, when the killing starts, your gonna be happy that you aren't the alpha male here, cause the Serians target them first everytime, trust me I know from some pretty reliable sources, like the one who made me not so pretty when i was still human. Hence the rags. As far as your threats......well let us just say, if you could rip that power out of me, ha I would say its Zeus' turn to give up the throne and hand it to a mortal. Don't worry elf, no matter how much I hate ya, I will fight for the side that holds my leash, obviously you know who that is already." <br><br>Stepping back a half step and still holding out his arm to the elf as a sign of not only some respect, but also a large amount of honor. He never had broken his word, hence his round about talking to the three. He would promise nothing, or else he would be bound to that promise to the end of his days, no matter the cost. Thought Tureal knew this and tested the damn thing constantly by forcing his word on promises he didn't understand at the time. It got annoying no doubt.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Starlequin</strong> on <strong>15-03-2011, 09:02:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zedd Witlock -- A pick-a-nick basket makes everything better<br><br><em>'Well, well. <strong>Someone</strong> is clearly an optimist,</em>' Zedd thought wryly as Phaedra began spreading out her make-shift picnic cloth onto the ground and set out some delectable-looking cheese and hunks of bread. His eyes widened ever so slightly at the sight of the food, and his mouth started to water almost instantly. The morning's jerky was long spent, and despite the likelihood of impending violence from Talos, Zedd couldn't suppress a low grumble from his stomach. His attention wavered from the towering warrior, and he glanced at the delicious temptations being offered, a desirous whimper escaping his quavering lips as he sniffed the fresh, warm cheddar.<br><br>His thoughts were so occupied with anticipation of a much-needed meal, Zedd barely registered that Talos was speaking again until he felt the swipe of a meaty paw against his shoulder. The blow held none of the speed nor the hostility of what he would have expected from an attack from the likes of Talos, but it nonetheless nearly sent Zedd sprawling to the floor of the clearing. He stumbled and caught his feet, righted himself before he could fall onto the girl's picnic sheet, and turned to look back at Talos with a mildly exasperated expression. '<em>Still,</em>' he thought, '<em>if that's the worst it comes to, I'll call it a victory.</em>' Zedd rolled his eyes with a grin and gave Talos a brief nod.<br><br>"Eh, I suppose you are not so terrible yourself, tiny," Zedd said, smiling. He turned and licked his chops, the tip of his tongue darting out and disappearing just as quickly as he focused his now-undivided attention on Phaedra's victuals. He was ferociously hungry, but he did not want to appear savage; he moved closer and sank to the ground on one corner of the sheet, his legs crossed comfortably. The thought occurred to him that perhaps he should wait and see if Feldor and Talos would be joining them, but he decided against it; if a fight did indeed erupt, he at least wanted to battle on a full stomach.<br><br>Zedd seized the opportunity to enjoy the girl's food -- and company -- as the Elf and the corpse continued their conversation. He gingerly took the bread she offered and popped a small piece into his mouth; the dry, fluffy texture was heaven to his taste buds. A quiet groan of appreciation escaped him, and he gave the young woman another smile. "This is easily the best thing I've eaten all day, miss. Did you bake this yourself, may I ask?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>15-03-2011, 21:58:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Releasing his hold on the node Feldor’s hair drops back to its normal state and his eyes stop glowing. He then slowly drops back to the ground. Looking up into the larger man’s eyes he says, “Please forgive me for not taking your offered hand again, Talos. I am still overly charged from tapping into the very powerful source of raw magic and direct connect may cause an unwanted discharge especially considering the magic already flowing through you.”<br><br>“We all serve our deities in our own way, whether it be by choice or some form of coercion. So you still serve even if it is reluctantly. As for the alpha of course the leaders are targeted first. I myself have used that tactic more than a few times. Taking out the commander serves two major purposes for winning a battle. First it disrupts the chain of command causing confusion and secondly it demoralizes the troops. I have no desire to lead but have done so in the past and will accept the responsibility if that is what is asked of me.”<br><br>Looking over at Zedd and the as yet still unnamed lady Feldor says, “Come, Talos, let us put our differences aside for now and accept the lady’s generous offer.” He then walks over to them and sets at her side placing her safely between himself and Zedd. Taking the offered bread and cheese he says, “Thank you, my lady. I can already see why you were sent here, it is good to have a woman’s wisdom to offset male egos. I apologize for the display.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>bloodrose</strong> on <strong>16-03-2011, 13:47:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Phaedra smiled her sweet smile at Zedd as he groaned his appreciation of her bread, and nodded when he asked if she baked it herself.&nbsp; <br><br>"Yes I bake all my own bread.&nbsp; I prepared the cheese too, so how do you like that?"<br><br>Whilst she was speaking she felt the tension in the atmosphere abate slightly, as the other two men backed down from each other, and she was pleased to see Feldor approach and sit next to her.&nbsp; She handed him a chunck of the bread and a slice of cheese.<br><br>She gave a soft laugh at his words.&nbsp; "No apology necessary!&nbsp; I doubt I've been sent her to offset your make egos, Feldor, probably more likely to feed you!&nbsp; I'm certainly very different from all of you, I'm no warrior.&nbsp; It will be very interesting to see exactly what it is the gods and goddesses want of us, I'm sure.&nbsp; I'm Phaedra, by the way."<br><br>She looked up at the only one of their company not to have taken his place on the ground with them, wondering if he would join them or not.&nbsp; She decided not to say anything more, it was his choice, and if he decided not to eat with them, well it was his loss, even if she said so herself.&nbsp; The bread was good, and she was particularly pleased with the creamy texture of the cheese. It had matured well, and had a good mellow flavour, with just the right amount of salt.<br><br>She turned her attention back to the two men seated with her.&nbsp; "So were you given any information as to why we were summoned here?&nbsp; I'm very much in the dark, so if you have any ideas, I'd be very grateful to hear them.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Elf</strong> on <strong>16-03-2011, 20:19:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a light laugh Feldor says, “Well Phaedra it is truly a pleasure to make your acquaintance. While feeding us will likely be important, I expect that you have much more to offer than mere sustenance.” He puts a small bite of the bread in his mouth and his eyes actually close as he savors the delightful morsel. After swallowing the bite he opens his eyes and says, “Oh, you are a delightfully good cook, thank you.”<br><br>Taking another bite and adding a bit of the cheese to it he thinks while chewing, Feldor finally says, “I’m afraid that my message only asked me to come here. While there was some urgency to it, I was not given any information at all. While I was not even told there would be others, I expect that once all that have been called arrive we will be given more information. It sounds as if Talos was given more information than the rest of us. Perhaps we can get him to pass on what he knows.”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MarcothTalos</strong> on <strong>18-03-2011, 06:16:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Gritting his teeth at the comments made Akribos looked at the small man who damn near fell over from his pat on his shoulder. He laughed at the sight before he lowered his hand from the elf containing he want to laugh again, the elf would be shockingly surprised how much he could endure, but he knew this mission was observation only for now. That is when he felt the power of the node again this time without the dilution of the elf, it was power he could only compare to the titans, and even then it was not near the low. This Angnhil being, it was far beyond anything he had known, and he was far too old to believe what he currently felt, though something was distorting the full power of the animal below, Akribos inwardly shook. The being would not serve anyone, the Sarien's were wrong, and this time the Olympians were right, kill it before it gets loose. Thought Turael rarely was considered a fool, she would not send him here unless this being could be contained or controlled in some way. The distortion he still felt he noticed was the cat-o-nines under his shield leather cover. <br><br>Though the gift was not enough, since most Olympians would never be able to sense a gift from the Sariens, the were far to paranoid for that. The ones he felt this time were of the three in front of him. They were there, but not. The elf he could sense a bow, Athena was known for that, no doubt the thing would never miss, but he doubted that it was an easy tool to use. The Olympians always had a catch to everything. The other one, Zedd as he called himself, carried what seemed to be nothing, but the gift was there, since Artemis' stench laid all over the small man, it was obvious that the gift was internal. The goddess was always the hunter, watching the battlefield for a day before using it. Although Akribos still could not place it, it bugged him. Though the Dyrad was obvious, her food. Some kind of fruit amongst her belongings, since the wife of Hades always did enjoy bringing life to his underworld of the dead, it was something powerful, she would be a healer of sorts no doubt. Though the way the Elf and the smaller human moved towards her and smelled, they hoped she would serve ALL of their aches. It was humorous to see the two move from him and towards the food.<br><br>As the small man dove into his food Akribos cursed under his breath in a language long forgotten by the mortals of this world. Looking at the others he noticed the Dyrad look his way for a moment, her curiosity soaking about her mind.&nbsp; Nodding to her he stepped forward and stopped just between Feldor and Zedd, his large body casting a shadow over the group. "I am not exactly sure of why we were all gathered here m'lady, but I assure you the last time I was revived......well let us put it this way they didn't exactly do it to babysit a clearing in the woods. So how about we all assume that this place will soon be red with alot of our blood, and others." Looking to the right and left scanning the edge of the clearing Akribos nodded and sighed walking over and grabbing his spear again. Standing for a moment he looked down at the elf to speak to him again after he noted his comments towards Akribos. "Well Elf, I would love to taste the foul ash taste in my mouth again, but I will pass. Food falls to ash, water to acid with those of us around long past our time. Thanks anyways but it would only irritate me. You kiddos enjoy your dinner, the night is coming, might want to start building up some defense around these woods. Trees the size of mountain would serve a good purpose when it comes to keeping those who could harm...our mission."<br><br>Walking from the group and standing a few feet from them with his back to them, his ruck sack on his back still the thing looked small on him, but none the less it mostly contained in their eyes the last of what he owned, if they only knew. Akribos smirked as he scanned the clearings edge, reaching out for another Sarien, not being so obvious as to use his powers to reach them and contact them, that would just tip the others, rather he just sent out a feeler or two seeing if any of the Sariens stink was out there. "Got any ideas there Elf? You obviously have been here the longest, I can smell you from the clearing to the creek. So why don't you tell us, anywhere to put our backs against rather than each other?" The whole time Akribos stared away from them as he spoke.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The Great Evil</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Arioch</strong> on <strong>25-03-2011, 23:01:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Drache - Sailing to Crete<br><br>The next morning found Drache waiting on the crew. He was used to being up before dawn, being in a real bed wasn't going to change that. Once the crew members arrived there was a bit of a discussion that revolved around Drache.&nbsp; He couldn't understand the language spoken but knew it was about the vulture. The damn bird still perched itself atop his axe, staring down at everyone as if waiting for them to die. He could tell that the crew considered it a bad omen and didn't want it, or Drache, along.<br><br>Not a superstitious man, the Captain knew not to force the issue. The crew would have to accept them or he could have a mutiny before setting sail. It was the old man that slept on the boat that made the difference. He had been listening to the debate from atop a crate. Hoping down he moved forward and looked at Drache and the bird. With a cackle he started to laugh as he turned about. Quickly he spoke to the others and Drache saw as first one then another of the crew slowly nodded. Turning back, the old man looked at Drache and said, "Come. Come." Without waiting for any other invite the bird flew off the axe, flapped his wings a few times and landed at the prow.<br><br>Part of the agreement for passage was that Drache would help with the rowing. The Captain had said it would only be until they made it passed the hills where the wind would fill the sails. At first, Drache could not get the proper timing and was struggling with the mechanics of the oar. Then, after a few tips from the same old man he started to work the oar like a sailor. Nobody else wanted to sit near him, however, with his strength, there was no need for a second man at the oar. Thirty minutes later the order to lift the oars was given and the sails unfurled. The trip to Crete would now be a the speed of the wind.<br><br>******************************************************<br><br>It was the second night on the ship that Drache was woken by the sound of the night watch. A few of the crew were moving to investigate and Drache decided to see what was the matter. When he made it onto the deck he saw those that woke staring ahead. Looking in the direction he could see the glow of the flames. It was a soft glow still far away but Drache knew, Crete was burning. Also looking straight ahead was the vulture. Still at the head of the ship as if guiding the direction. Now, it appeared as if it was sighting in on the meal it had been waiting for. <br><br>There was no more sleep that night.&nbsp; Everyone except Drache was offering an opinion on whether to continue to turn back.&nbsp; Some of the crew had family at Crete while other had no attachment at all. It was the Captain that stood to lose since he had cargo that he was trying to deliver. His decision was what settled the crew, or rather, ended the argument. The ship held its course and made it to Crete. <br><br>Before docking the Captain told the crew that they were to stay with the ship. Drache, as a passenger, had the option to stay or go. The blond warrior had been standing near the vulture as the ship approached. His blood stirring at what he saw before him. Drache had been a part of this type of thing. He had set a few torches and taken part in the looting that he could see going on.&nbsp; Even before the ship came to a full stop he was jumping onto the dock. As he walked forward he felt the added weight of the vulture resting upon his axe. But Drache knew, this was not his battle. He shouldn't take part in the raid. Ares had given him another task and he could not endanger it.<br><br>Moving to the edge of the dock he stopped, pulled the hood of his cloak over his head, watched and waited.
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>