Hunters of Terra Dolor (Role Playing Section)

[Dahlexpert]

The pride of Norsca will live on

The middle of the ocean
November 12 3349
3:13 AM

In their defeat the norscans looked at their burning city, as the city started to fade away the further they went until they couldn’t see it no more. Lorica looked at Satakos corps and carried it to the bottom of the ship.” It’s been to long now, were is Alice she would have been here by now? There’s no way, Alice couldn’t have fallen to those bastuards.” Suddenly one of the raiders went to Lorica and yelled to her.

“Hay there’s something wrong with Crixus! We don’t know what’s happing to him he’s just vomiting blood!”

Lorica eyes widen and she quickly made her way topside to see Crixus throwing up blood, she looked to Wulfric to wonder what was going on. “This could only mean one thing.” Wulfric looked to were there city was.” Ou beloved leader, Alice she’s... She’s gone.”

Lorica eyes widen, and wanted to deny it. But looking at Crixus and it Alice would have been back by now she had to accept that there leader was gone, at the realization she started crying and yelling for Alice.

Wulfric didn’t know how to take the news he just fell to his knees punching his fist into the ground.

After several hours the crew started gathering fish from the side of the ship, still not knowing what to do with themselves. Wulfric went to the captain’s quarters looking over Crixus. “How’s he doing shaman?”

“Not good, we are trying our best to heal him but he relied on Alice too much. He may be a lost cause, but if we had the ingredients to purify his body then maybe we can save him.

“Hum keep me updated hopefully he will recover.” Lorica left the cabnit and walked to Wulfric.” What are we going to do? We can’t just sail back to the island.”

“Hum we have no leader, Satako is dead Crixus is out of commission and Alice is gone. Looks like it’s up to us.”

“Us? But were not Alice, what can we do for our men huh?”

“What you can do is stop sulking.” Scarlett said behind them. “Look I miss Alice too but she wouldn’t want us to sulk, we need food water and shelter. Look why don’t we go to a nearby island, that way we can get food and rest up as well as. Scarlet looked at Satako.” Burry our friend there.”

The two nodded their heads and Scarlet sailed them to a nearby island. The island was massive with plenty of jungle surrounding it, the norscans got off their ship and carried Satako off the ship as well. The made a proper burial for her in the sand.

Lorica walked to Wulfric.” Our scouts looked over the island, it’s large enough for us to hold here. Plenty of food here and it’s close to the main land as well, we should camp here.” Wulfric we need to talk to them, they need us. Alice is dead Satako is dead, Crixus is well I don’t know what’s happening to him, our people what’s left of them need our help.”

Wulfric nods his head in agreement, he and Lorica went to their people both nervous to do so.” Listen up.” Wulfric shouted. “Our leader Alice, is dead Satako is dead and Crixus is incapacitated. But we must go on, Alice would not want us to sulk around in wallow in our sadness.”


“That’s right!” Lorica stood next to him.” Alice would want us to continue to do what we were doing. We all miss her we all wish she was standing with us right now. But she gave her life for us, and for us to be here so we can’t be sulking over her.”

Wulfric then switched out with Lorica.” Alice has given us so much, she has given us our own culture way of life how to live, and to abandon that will be a spit in the face of all that. Were raider’s warrior’s pirate’s mercenaries, we live to fight. So were going to make port for our others to find us.”

Everyone agreed and went to scout the jungles, to chop trees and make wood for the future doc. Scarleet came behind the two and smiled. “Nice speech you two Alice would be proud, and your right we need to rest and stretch our legs besides we need to come up with a plan. This island can’t sustain us forever we need food, fresh water and well everything.”

“We will Scar, for now let’s get our docks made then well think about witch country we should raid.” Lorica said her and Wulfric went to the forest and joined there men cutting down trees to use the wood to make port

 

[Black0ut]

Frostlich1228 & Black0ut present:
Precious Metals


Black surveyed the road to Havenbrook. She had already made the road far safer, having scared the shit out of a couple would-be bandits. However, she was beginning to tire of staying in one place for so long as it had been a day or two of watching the road and due to her nature, she no longer had the pleasure to take breaks to eat or to take a bathroom break. Black merely uttered a word, one that summarized her situation and all that had happened in her life. "Fuck."

Suddenly, she saw what seemed to be a few black, shadowy horses riding towards the Manor at night. They were ridden by what looked to be dark figures, but they were too far away and it was too dark to make out details.

Black focused, conjuring several tendrils on the road to stop them. "Who approaches this area?" She called out, her ethereal voice demanding and irritated.

The horses stopped, a dark figure with what looked like a cane stepping off the horse. He spoke in a voice familiar to Alexis in some way. "Are you with Havenbrook?"

"That depends on your intentions... war is a tireless thing, or so Goldie used to tell me." She said stoically, trying to determine if it was someone she knew in the past.

"Heh... Goldie... You know I had a old friend I used to call that..." He chuckled grimly.

"Did you have other friends, Silver?" She asked, tilting her head.

"Silver..." He trailed off. "How do you know that name...?"

"Five Knights, five names. Jacques, a.k.a Silver. Elios, a.k.a. Gold. Alexis, a.k.a. Black. Aldren, a.k.a. White. And I believe you can already tell, I know Platinum's name." Black listed off, rubbing her neck. "As for how I know... well, you should know. I was there with you."

He stepped forwards to get a better look as Jacque walked into her sight. He was much older, some wrinkles, some grey in his hair and a rough stubble, but he was wielding his signature cane and very similar armor, but it was grey instead of Silver.

"I must be seeing things... That can't really be you Alexis..." He blinked.

"It's me... how's Goldie? Last I heard, he entered Draculesti, but he never came out." Black asked, sticking a hand out towards Silver.

"He's... Gone completely mad... I..." He shook his head. "No. You're dead. I buried you..."

"Then why would I be here to talk with you, or have met your daughter, Kva?" Black questioned, crossing her arms. "And I still can always put you in a neck brace again..."

He walked forward slowly, then he rushed forward, wrapping his arms around her armor. As a proper gentleman, this was very uncharacteristic of him. "I... Alexis how are you alive?"

She returned the hug, but her voice was very melancholic. "I... I'm not really. I was corrupted and that's how I'm here now. Nothing is inside this armor, Jack..."

"What? What do you mean, love?" He pulled his head back.

She took off her helmet to reveal...nothing, it was empty, as was the arm she pulled off next. "I am not among the living... at least... not anymore."

He seemed shocked, but then chuckled. "You know... I never believed you died back then... I told Gold Taydar would be too scared of you to collect... I guess I was right..."

She laughed, her voice sounding more corporeal. A face made of darkness appeared where her head would be. "If he is, he and I will need to have a chat about being an ass for nearly three hundred years."

He held her hands. "I've missed you Lexy... You know you are like a sister to me, right?"

"And you are a brother to me, Jack." She smiled, her expression a gentle one. It became a little guilty as she continued "I... didn't want anyone to see me like this. See that I'm not the same anymore. I'm so sorry... I should have revealed myself long ago..."

"That's literally the last thing I care about right now..." Jacque sighed. "Is Lana'thel at Havenbrook? Are you two getting along?"

" I still dislike her... she is very much the way I remember... but yes, we are getting along as well as we can." Black said, her smile dropping in lieu of a frown. "Your daughter is also at Havenbrook, Jack. Kva."

"Good..." He nodded, his face turning grim. "Because the council is dead... They've all been murdered..."

She grimaced as if she had been struck with a weapon. "That's... shit. That's about as bad as I thought. Lanny told me about the civil war brewing, but I didn't think it would erupt that badly..."

"No... Alice did this... She came in with the help of her god and butchered them, she even almost murdered her own Sister before she retreated." The Elf shook her head. "She's become more than a monster..."

"Lana and I will deal with her. We already made an agreement to do so. I just... I'm not sure we'll both survive the encounter. She has gotten stronger after all." Black held a hand to her helmet. "But the more backup we have to deal with their reinforcements, the better our chances are."

"I need to go and give the news to Lana'thel. As of now she is the grand leader of Draculesti..." He looked Alexis in the mask.

"No. Do not give her that stress yet. She finally has her daughter again, and is spending time. Wait... at least for a day or a half-day. Let her enjoy herself." Black countered, shaking her head.

"We Don't have time Lexy. As much as I want to spare her the horror, she needs to know." Jacque placed a hand on her shoulder.

The Knight looked away, the shadowy tendrils taking off her helmet again, her shadow face present. "Anyone else, save Val, and I could say no... fine. But I am going to escort you. And... fill you in on some things about your daughter..."

"Very well..." He motioned for the horses behind to follow at walking speed. "You seem to have been spending time with my daughter then. Does she know our past?"

"Only the basics, not any of the specifics. I didn't want to scare the girl..." She said softly, looking at him.

"Oh. You'll find she's a hard type to scare!" Silver chuckled, ribbing her with his elbow.

"Eh... you’d be right, but anything involving her girlfriend and then she either gets a cold fury, or worried." Black compromised her opinion.

"Girlfriend eh? Call me surprised." Jacque smiled softly. "Can't wait to meet the girl."

"I have another surprise, if you'll hear it, one that shocked me when I found out." She offered, turning her helmet to look at him.

"Oh? This should be good." He chuckled.

"Your daughter picked, out of all the possible men and women in the world, a direct descendant of mine. And if that weren't enough... she's a demigod to boot."

He coughed slightly. "Wait... She's screwing around with like... Your great granddaughter?"

The suit shrugged. "Effectively. They seem rather inseparable."

"Great... There has to be a hell of an age difference then." He sighed.

"Well, not everyone can enjoy a Vampire's life span. She's old enough. Besides your daughter is madly in love... I doubt the words of you and Lana could convince her otherwise."

"No. No. I'm not disappointed. Just... What race is she exactly? Thrope?" He looked up at Black again.

"Wolf Thrope. Short. Silver hair with gold and blue eyes." Black listed off.

"Well... At least they probably won't outlive each other..." Jacque smiled, "I'm glad she found happiness..."

"I'm glad they both found each other... it's almost like Aldren and me, in terms of the amount of love they give to one another." Black replied, her ethereal face smiling.

"I take it he didn't come back with you, huh?" Silver's face saddened.

"He... no. I put his body in the Regallis Crypt, but even then... his spirit didn't come back to guard it. He's... he's gone." She said, her voice filled with melancholy, a pained expression on her face.

"I'm sorry Lex. I miss that asshole..." He sighed, the Manor gates coming into sight.

"I miss him... more than you can possibly know." She said softly, droplets of corruption falling to the ground.

Jacque hardly knew what to say as they reached the Manor, a guard stopping them. "Halt! State your business!"

"We're from Draculesti! We're here to speak to Lana'thel."

The Guards looked between each other. "Wait here. We will go fetch the Vampire."

"Considering I've been here already, and a couple of your compatriots were already knocked out, is this really necessary? I could always go and tell Mina that you obstructed key allies from entering... especially one that's made her presence known." Black said, walking forward, her face fading as her helmet went on top of her head.

They could see both the guards all sweat a little, moving aside.

"Haven't lost your edge, huh Lexy?" Silver looked impressed.

"Not at all... and backing up intimidation with actual violence works really well." The armor shrugged, offering a laugh.

Jacque gave her a pat on the back as they escorted them in, another two guards cycling to the gate.

"So... with Lana and them... I might ask you to go with Plat-erm- Val as a backup force to give me and your Blood Queen time to deal with Alice. All depends on whether your daughter and wife are okay with you going in." Black's sword came out, as she got a feeling they were close to her old rival.

"Wait... Plat? She's... Unfrozen?" Jacque did a double take.

Black nodded. "I went to her as soon as I could... had to lie to your wife about reason, but I trust you don't mind?"

"Why lie? What's the point?" The Elf asked.

"She was being a bitch." Black shrugged, looking away from her compatriot. "She talked about Aldren... negatively. And one does not piss me off and get away scot free. So, I left without telling her the reason why."

He sighed. "Let's break the news then..."

 

[Black0ut]

Frostlich1228 & Blackyb- err- Black0ut present:
Fixing What Was Broken


The lab was deathly quiet, the only sound to interrupt it being little Jasmine. She was rocked in the Light Elf's only arm. The papers spread around his desk were being written up by his Light magic hands. His eyes sockets were sunken, and if one were to see his without his baby, they could reasonably call him a corpse.

He finished his letter to Betty, asking her for help creating him an eye and focused on his child. His face brightened, as he kissed her forehead. Jay made his way out of the hallway towards his old room, hoping to ask Titania or Kva if they could babysit for him.

Instead he found sitting inside, the wooden shell that now housed Sylvie, sitting sadly with her head in her hands and lost in her own thoughts.

He debated whether he should approach her, as his feelings and his current state of being were dark or unhealthy. With a mental sigh, Jay cleared his throat. "Hey."

She looked up, breaking out of her trance. "Jay... Hey... I'd... like to speak with you..."

Taking a seat next to her, he offered a weary smile, waiting for her to start.

"I know you're upset with me still..." Sylvie informed him quickly. "I wanted to ask you... Is there any way to fix this in your eyes? To go back to how things were?"

“Well... you're still you and you still talk to me... So I'd say you're doing well on making things go back to the way they used to." He lied upbeatly, offering another smile.

"Jay... Be honest with me. I've known you long enough to know that that's bullshit. There's no way you're just fine..." The Huntress quickly called him out.

"Fine..." He started, his smile turning into a grimace. "I'm not happy in the slightest and I don't know how you can fix it. Hell, I don't know how I can fix it."

His tired gaze looked elsewhere. "So, in essence, everything is strange and new and far too different than what it used to be. Can I adapt to what's happened? Sure. Will I ever be okay with it? I don't know. The facts are... I'm struggling to feel any emotion, any feeling and the only one that shows up is a tired lethargy." He said quietly, his voice below a whisper. "Happy now that I'm being more real with you?"

Sylviw slowly nodded, "Yes... I am..."

"Edan... What would you say if I discovered a way to... Reverse this? To make everything go back to the way it was before?" The Wooden Woman looked back towards him.

"I'd be confused, as I thought this was a permanent state of being for you." The Light Elf slowly rocked their child gently, his gaze one of love.

"Look but... What if I could? Would that make you happy?" She continued her questioning.

He didn't look at her for some time, probably contemplating what he wanted to say. After nearly a minute, he looked at her. "What would make me happy is irrelevant. What matters is if you are happy." Jay replied, offering a weak shrug as part of his answer.

"Jay..." She looked away. "I just want you to be happy. If either of us is hurt or sad it hurts the other..."

He shook his head, frowning. "Not always. I've always been hurt, I just show you varying levels of it." He corrected, an arm of Light forming where his missing one would've been. He rubbed Jasmine's forehead, while he stared at his lover. "So, no... I'm being more open with you and showing more of myself, more of the broken mess you seem to like trying to fix."

The Sylvan Woman put her head in her hands, dark liquid staining her wooden mask. "We were almost happy... I was so close to helping you... To having our happy ending... But I destroyed it... I destroyed us by becoming this thing..."

His staff flew out of the lab only to whack her over her head. "Stop. I never said you ruined what we have or that I can't imagine being happy with you like this. I love you and that'll never change." Edan soothed softly, using his conjured arm to hold her.

"Are you sure? How can what we have ever be the same again...? I... I betrayed you... I chose Ahusirra over you..." She explained, not even reacting to the head blow.

"It was a choice that had no good options. You had your Goddess asking a favor from you... besides, you are important to me. I don't think you being a tree woman will make me think differently." He said softly, kissing her wooden face.

Sadly though, she couldn't feel it. Syl looked back up at him. "So... You could really love me... Like this?"

"You are Sylvie Laurent, are you not?" He asked rhetorically, kissing the wooden mask again. "I love who you are, not what you are. It'll... take me some time to get used to you like this, but I assure you, I still love you just as much as I did when you were Human."

She held his hand in her own. "Do... Do you promise? Promise you won't leave us?"

"I would never leave either of you... while I was in the right mind, and even if I wasn't... well, I'm not too eager to go to Hell right away." He said quietly, pulling her into a hug, while being careful not to squish Jasmine.

Syl rubbed her head against Jay's lightly. "Whatever happens. We're together."

"We're always going to be together." He said sweetly, his thoughts both dark and light.

The Huntress looked down at her child, rubbing her cheek lightly. "I can't wait to see her all grown up..."

"I'm in the opposite camp... she'll have to find a boyfriend and that just scares me..." He murmured with mock terror.

"You know. I've heard from the other Mother's that Daughters pick men that are like their Fathers..." Sylvie looked up at him.

"Oh? So you're father is about as arrogant as me or as depressed? I find that hard to believe." He countered, rolling his eye.

She looked down. "He is... Quiet... I guess now we know what he went through..."

"That was probably hard on him... but he seemed strong. Capable. But hopefully he isn't as broken as me." Sancros started, putting a hand under her chin, raising her gaze up so he could look at her mask. "But if he was able to see your mother afterwards, he probably was happier."

"I hope so..." She lifted a hand up, brushing his head. "Edan. It doesn't matter to me that you're broken. I picked you because you deserve happiness. I picked you because I saw a beaten, battered soul, but there was still some remnants of a kind man left... A dying ember... And I knew there was still hope for you, if I could only stoke that ember... Give you a reason to live..."

"I would've been fine... just very apathetic. A Thrope noble figured out a lot about me... just with a handshake, she knew some of my history. She said only the strongest women could make it past my frozen demeanor... and she was right. I guess I was waiting for the right girl to peer in and see more than just what was upon the surface... and if she could, if I could take care of her, make her see how much I loved her..." He admitted softly, closing his eyes at her touch.

"I know Jay. I know..." She wrapped her arms around him, making him feel warm and tingly with her magic.

He pushed a little of his magic into her as well, directing it through the Light arm. He sighed, content for the moment. This won't last... my feelings are too erratic and eventually... I'll go back to being near suicidal... must come up with a way to counter... maybe with stimulants? Or should I study Alchemy? Erin did need the help on that and this would be a good excuse to research preventives or a cure.

"Maybe we can ask Ahusirra about it." Sylvie replied as if he had spoken out loud, still snuggling him.

Sancros' opened his missing eye, as he continued to think. Can you hear my thoughts, Sylvie?

"No... Why?" The Huntress pulled back, tilting her head.

Because I haven't opened my mouth to talk to you. I've just been thinking the thoughts in my head. He looked at her, raising an eyebrow.

"What..." Sylvie tilted her head as he talked to confirm. "That's... New …”

"It is... I wonder if you can see an image if I project it in my mind..." He started his voice getting more curious. He brought a memory of his forward, where he had made her dinner, and had slept alongside her.

The Huntress held her head up to his again, focusing. "I... I can see it!"

"I wonder if you could do this with anyone else or if it's just with me..." Sancros murmured his mind beginning to pull up another memory before it stopped, his head shaking softly. "But that can wait. You being here is more important."

"Yeah... I wonder what else I can do... I probably should've asked Skye..." Sylvie scratched her head awkwardly. "Oh well..."

The Light Elf paused as he realized about his mental guards and whether she could get past them. Locking his mind down, he merely asked. Can you hear me now?

Sitting away from him now, she shook her head. "Did you... Think something? It was kinda garbly..."

"I did. I just happened to put up... mental blocks to see if you could hear me even through them." He replied, looking at her with his missing eye.

She shook her head. "Mmm... I guess not..."

He kissed her mask, his thoughts and mental guard either gone or vacant.

"I love you Edan. For eternity..."

"And I love you too, Sylvie, for as long as I may live." He whispered back, his thoughts, and his mental shields, returning.

 

[Black0ut]

Frostlich1228 & Black0ut present:
Respite in War

A bead of sweat dropped, but the woman with wolf ears kept practicing her form. She had allowed herself to become docile and from that, her skills had stagnated and reversed in progress. Her blade clanged against something metallic. She kept going, swinging her sword in practiced flurries, her eyes fully feral and yet, seemingly empty.

However, stepping in and silently watching her was Kva, taking in every part of the Wolf's display.

Titania's strikes grew more fierce and more lethal as she began to get angrier as she recalled all the injustices she had suffered, every slight she had endured. However, instead of a burning rage like the Thrope usually had, it was cold and calculated. A low growl seem to come from her as she sped up, her strikes making the metal bend with a horrid sound.

"Your control is improving." Kva leaned against the wall of the temporary tent. "That's good."

Titania turned her head slowly, her eyes locking with Kva's. However, it held none of the warmth or even a speck of recognition in her eyes. Instead, hers were cold and predatory, as she seemed to size up Kva.

Kva raised an eyebrow, "Snap of of your battle trance already... It's me."

Titania's eyes stared intently at Kva, shifting from cold, predatory intentions to cold, acceptance. She sheathed her blade and started to blur before tackling the Dhampir to the ground. She relaxed into her lover as she tried to fully come back to her senses.

Kva fell to the ground, chuckling as she pressed her lips against Titania's softly.

Titania slowly kissed her back, the Thrope’s eyes losing their feral look. "S-sorry..." She murmured, wrapping her arms around the Dhampir.

"Don't worry. It's a good look on you. Sexy." Kva smiled slightly.

The Thrope tried to hide her blush as she turned her head away. "S-stop..." She whispered.

"Never." She leaned up and kissed her again.

"S-someone is a bit flirtatious despite seeing me in a-a bad state..." The Thrope's words were tinged with her original accent as she grew more shy.

"You didn't attack me, so it's hardly the worst state you've been in." Kva noted.

"Even so, just thinking about it is bad enough on it's own. The fact stands... I could've hurt you..." She answered in a whisper, looking into the Dhampir's eyes. "Which is not particularly a good thing when interacting with a loved one…

"Unless you like that sort of thing." The Dhampir rubbed Titania's head.

"And do you like me nearly attacking you? Because I don't..." Titania grumbled, closing her eyes.

"Shush you... It's fine." The Fencer comforted.

The Thrope merely sighed her thoughts more morose than normal. "Yet... I worry that I might hurt you or someone else when I'm in one of those states..." She gripped the Dhampir a little tighter her worry and mild panic bleeding through the action.

"Want to have some fun to get your mind off things?" Kva suggested.

Titania kissed her cheek, a soft, but rueful smile on her face. "No... I'd rather talk with you. Maybe afterwards if you're up to it."

Kva chuckled, "Very well..."

Titania sighed, looking into Kva's eyes. "A lot has happened; Koz, Hell, now a war... yet... what I worry about is only minor. I worry sometimes I do not know everyone quite as well as I should... or that my battle-rage has made people dislike me far more." She started, her voice much like her grip was: softening. "So... I propose that we play a game, one that you might be familiar with; there are some things I don't know about you and I'm sure there's something I probably forgot to tell you. That is if y-you don't mind..."

"Of course not. Go ahead and ask first." Kva sat up.

"What's your favorite thing to do?" Titania asked after some thought.

"My favorite thing to do?" Kva chuckled. "Would you be a acceptable answer?"

Titania blushed and merely poked Kva cheek. "N-no... I-I meant, hobbies..."

"Before I met you it was simply... Training and Reading... Tanning my own leather was enjoyable... but there wasn't much else..." Kva tapped her foot, crossing her arms at the same time.

"So no exploration into music or any of the other performing arts nor simplistic hobbies like drawing? Perhaps I should play for you sometime... or perhaps take you to a noble's ball to dance..." She started to plan before shaking her head. "Nevertheless, what is something you wish to know of me?"

"Your Parents? I don't think you've ever said much about them. At least, not to me..." Kva asked.

"Graeme Regallis is my father and head of House Regallis. He is... overbearing with most of his children. Especially with me, but as to why, I don't know. Then there is my birth mother, Jana Regallis. I... haven't interacted much, or, at all with her. I daresay she loathes me for how tomboyish I am. I cannot say I like her much, if at all in return." Titania listed off, tilting her head to the side. "Then there is Runseca, my actual mother. She switched me out at birth with Pendener's help. Why she did so... I don't know. Perhaps she didn't want to be burdened with a child. Perhaps I was a mistake she decided not to get rid of. Whatever her reasons, she came back and revealed that we were mother and child."

Titania sat up as well, cracking her knuckles. "I'll let you get in another question."

"And that's where the speed comes from." Kva nodded. "Very well... What was your childhood like?"

Titania's eyes grew harder. "Isolation. I was not allowed to go out often or play with any other children. I was forced to study and learn skills I did not wish to learn. Above all else, I was secluded from others of my family along with my siblings, until we were sixteen. We knew of one another, but... we weren't friends. So... a somewhat typical noble childhood."

"I spent much of my time Training. Training to be the perfect weapon for the council. I was always the rebellious kid though, always fighting authority..." Kva chuckled grimly. "If I had joined the Seven I'd probably be one of Alice's mind slaves right now..."

"Well, I'm glad you're rebellious nature lead you to me. Who else would blush from me being romantic to her?" Titania flirted, brushing Kva's face with her hands. "As for my question... who was that person your mother mentioned... started with a 'd'..."

"Are you... Probably my old boyfriend..." The Dhampir sighed. "Second in command of the Seven."

"Oh? What was he like? Romantic and sweet? Cold, yet warm?"

"A pain in the ass. But he treated me well." Kva chuckled. "I left him behind too though."

"Sounds like a good guy... I wonder how he'd react to you being with me... anyways, I believe it's your turn to ask questions, Dhampy..." Titania said quietly, staring into Kva's eyes.

"I asked two. I believe it's your turn." Kva countered.

"I asked two about your ex. It is your turn." Titania retorted, poking her nose.

"Fine Fine... How do you feel... About Sylvie... And what she's... Become...?" Kva asked her simply.

"I'm upset with her. She hurt someone close to me by doing so and made him so isolated that he looks sickly. I restrain myself from hitting her or Ahusirra... but if I could get away with it, I'd smack the shit out of both of them." She replied icily, one of her eyes going back to her cold feral look, before fading. "I am upset with her for how she went about it but indifferent to her transformation."

Relaxing back down, she snuggled into Kva, a roaming hand of her trying to tickle her lover. "Why do you put up with me even when I'm in a bad mood? I'm not exactly the most sociable or even bearable person when I'm upset..."

 

[Black0ut]

Respite in War cont.

"Because I'm always in a bad mood.. Well... Except when I'm around you..." Kva poked her on the nose.

The Thrope gently kissed the Dhampire's lips. "You're a big flirt, you know that? You're too sweet..." She murmured, kissing her again.

"I'm sour like old Milk..." Kva just shook her head.

"No, you're sweet like candy... and pretty cute if I'm being honest..." Titania countered, a soft smile taking over her face.

Kva's smile faded slightly, "You know... It occurred to me that... Either of us could die in this battle... I just want you to know that this time I have spent with you has been the best time of my life..."

"Mine as well. You make me feel so happy and know that better things will come." Titania replied, softly sighing. "And you make me feel safe when you hold me. Crazy to think that I didn't try to kiss you when we were in my room after our fight."

"Whatever happens I'm this battle... Know that I love you Titania..." Kva brought her in for a hug.

"And I love you." Titania whispered, hugging her back.

"Now... Will we be spending the night together?" The Dhampir smiled mischievously. "I've still yet to use those toys I was gifted..."

Titania booped Kva's nose, offering a more shy smile. "I wouldn't be opposed..."

Kva just nuzzled the side of her head, kissing her passionately. "You're cute when you get all shy..."

"Sh-shush..." Titania murmured, her face going bright red as she wrapped an arm around Kva's head to return the passionate kiss with one of her own.

Suddenly, a large crow perched itself on the outside of thier fence, looking in and tilting it's head. Kva looked at it carefully, squinting, before it backed up and flew away.

Titania looked for a moment at where the bird was before looking at Kva, tilting her head. "A copper for your thoughts?"

"Nothing..." Kva shook her head. "Just... Just a bird..."

Titania gently turned her head so she could look in her eyes, showing some of the raw worry she had. "Are you sure?"

"Just... A bad omen... Crows..." Kva shook her head.

"I promise that I'll keep you safe." Titania said softly, turning Kva's head as she kissed her gently. "Crows or not, you mean too much to me to let some crazed person under Alice hurt you."

"I should be protecting you puppy... Wouldn't want Ranseca finding me if I let you get hurt..." Kva chuckled lightly.

Titania merely stuck her tongue out at Kva as a response. "Perhaps I should one up you right now... with my precise hands... And tickle you!" Her arms blurred as she sought to make the Dhampir regret her earlier comment, all while wearing a carefree grin.

"You. I am not ticklish!" Kva held it in, falling back onto the simple bed. "Do you think... A three hundred and fifty year old... Would be...!"

"I do and you gotta laugh some time!" Titania laughed, continuing her quest to make the dhampire laugh.

Falling on her back, Kva growled, trying to keep her composure.

"Stubborn... I can growl too, but... is that a smile I see? The corners of your lips are starting to betray you, Dhampy..." Titania teased, giving a growl that was more cute than anything. She gently kissed Kva's lips, a soft smile on her own.

Kva suddenly moved her hands up inside Titania's shirt. "I can make you smile harder..."

The tickling stopped as he hands vibrates gently at her lover's sides. "And I can do the same..." She replied seductively, nibbling on Kva's ear.

"Does your Mother know you are using her powers for this puppy?" Kva licked up the length of her neck.

"No... but my power are to use as I please... And what I want... is to make your eyes roll back." Titania said lustfully, one hand moving up and under Kva's shirt to play with the softness that she had felt before, while the other merely snaked down and vibrated, the clothing providing no resistance. Titania leaned forward, and nibbled on the bottom of Kva's neck, leaving hickeys wherever her mouth went.

Kva started breathing heavily, smiling in pleasure as she pulled Titania closer, "You're.... Getting ... Too good... Ahnn..."

"Maybe..." She said heatedly, pausing to kiss Kva's lips, slipping her tongue into her mouth as her hands continued their work.

She moaned out lightly, finishing in her usual reserved way before giving Titania a predatory look. "My turn..."

 

[Dahlexpert]

A empress ever surrenders even in death.

Hell
Month???
Date???

A pair of demons are flying across hell until two succubus started flying by.” Hay what are you guys doing, didn’t you here we have a vampire down here.” One of the succubus said in excitement.

“So what it’s a vampire, what’s the difference between one vampire and millions of souls?”

“Haven’t you heard this is the soul of the vampire that pushed back the demon army of Shōmetsu and her army? And the vampire that was a warlord and went to war with all of Terra, the one that’s friends with Grimmora, who got Tecunte killed and who’s lovers with Seclevar? We got the soul of Alice Valietine!” The succubus said in excitement.

The demon looked in shock.” Really that vampire died? Well then that would explain the commotion, I gotta see the so called monster of this Norsca.”

Demons from imps to massive demons went, to the center of hell. They saw a woman with purple hair, and an amazing mortal body. She was chained to what looked like a tree chains wrapped around her arms to keep her pined.

Two succubus walked slowly to the body curious to see if the woman was indeed the person they heard so much about. ”That’s Alice she’s just a mortal, I don’t get it what’s so scary about her?”

“Yea this is the person that had Terra in fear? She’s nothing, but some weak vampire. Pff what a waist, and here we got excited for nothing.”

“Hay sis since she’s in demon territory we might as well have some fun with her right?”

“Ou yea sis I mean how often do we demons get to have fun down here.” The duo laughed and threw a rock at Alice.

Alice slowly opened her eyes and looked around her, she saw that she was chained to a tree Alice struggled but the chains wouldn’t give.
“Alice.” One of the succubus. Said. “Mighty warlord, conquer the wanna be empress of Terra. How pathetic, to think that someone that tricked gods and who broke a nation is nothing more than a simple vampire.” Alice yealled at the succubus, another one appeared on top of the pillar where Alice was being hung.”

“Yea after all an empress needs a crown.” The succubus shoved a crown of spikes. Forcing blood to come from Alice head” There we go, now she’s an empress sis.” The succubus jumped off the pillar and looked at Alice.

Alice didn’t scream in pain or made any sound, she just looked at the two demons.” One of the succubus looked at Alice in annoyance. “Ou how stubborn no screams of pain or anguish, nothing huh? Well than guess we gotta up the punishment.” The succubus snapped her fingers and a whip appeared in her hand.”

“Now hold on sis, shoulden’t we tell the would be empress what part of hell she’s in.” The succubus floated to Alice pointing her finger at Alice. “See you were so sinful that not one part of hell was enough for you, so you’re in the realm of demons to be punished by us and be our play thing forever. Now than let then us have our fun.” The succubus started to whip Alice hoping to hear some screams from her, but they got nothing when they ripped her body apart ripping off her breast. Ripping her intestates out and burning her alive, but Alice didn’t make a sound.”

The older Succubus revived Alice sice she could never die.” Ou you are just a pain you know that.” She got closer to Alice. “Scream! React to something, you will be tortured for the rest of your life here!” The succubus screamed.

Alice spat in the Succubus eye, and got her throat slit in the process only to be healed.” Now sis if you can’t get angry at her, this is what she’s known for getting into people head.” The succubus snapped her fingers and thousands of souls appeared. “So let’s have the people that she killed have fun with her.” The succubus disappeared and thousands of people charged Alice some ripping her body apart, others rapping her. This went on for who knows how long and daemons from all around took their turn torturing Alice and destroying and healing her body. Until Alice was once again strapped to the tree.

“Whyyyyy!” One of the demons yelled.” Why aren’t you scared, making a sound yelling in pain? You think someone will save you is that it?! No one will help you, you have no country you have no people. Your country in destroyed, your people are scattered you have nothing and you will spend the rest of your days here. You are a worthless lifeless pathetic wannabe Empress with no country or people so why don’t you give in and accept your fate already!”

After Vass amounts of torture, and being the demons play thing they finally heard something from Alice. But it wasn’t screams it was a small giggle, until it was full-blown laughter. “Ou you pathetic demons, do you realize what I am, go ahead and torture me the last time I was tortured it was for a good hundred years. And I took all that anger and a nation out of it, do the point were four nations and there armys had to fight me and they still barley won. So in short your just making me stronger, and when Grimora does come for me I will remember all the faces of the so called demons that did this to me, and one by one you will all know why I was the heart of Norsca!” Alice yelled with her eyes becoming more demon like.

The demons laughed at the statement, and one of the Succubus got close to Alice.” Ou and how do you plan on doing any of that huh?”

Alice smiled and broke the chains that were keeping her pinned, and wrapped her arms to the succubus. Alice then smiled at the demon and sunk her teeth into its neck, draining it’s blood. Alice body then started to change bat like wings came from her back her skin grew darker and her eyes were black with red pupils, Alice yelled a demon like scream something that even made the demons cower and ran from Alice. Once out of sight Alice threw up the demon blood, her body burning away the demon essence away. “Ugh I forgot what that did to me, but at least they’re gone for now.” Alice sat on the Succubus corpse. “Come on Grimora, I’m right here waiting for you.”

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Dahlexpert & ZombieSplitter53
Facing the Music

Havenbrook manor
12:49 am

A portal has opened in front of the spot Charter left, as Charter stepped out his hair got longer, as well mussels being more toned. Charters red eye that he had since he was a child was now blue. “Ugh home, before I go to Esmeralda I need a bath.”

Charter went to the manor with most of the people still asleep, or in the bar. Charter took a bath and made his way to the medical area. He slowly opens the door to see Es sleeping, he put his hand on her head and hugged her.” I’m back Es.” Charter went to the door and looked it, he then grabbed a chair and sat there tell he fell asleep.

He was awoken by the sound of Safria dropping a food tray on surprise. "C-Charter?!"

Charter slowly opened his eyes and looked at Safria. "Ugh I thought I locked that damn door, ugh hay Safria how you doing?"

"W-what... when... w-w-what are you doing here?" Safira asked in shock. "W-where have you been?!"

"Ou Right, I've." Charter hesitated to answer, but he sighed and answered." I was in the realm of the gods, I had to handle my anger and my grief so I was with the warlord god. As well as a few family members and now I feel different, but if you don't mind Safria can you guard the door for me."

"Y-yeah, sure, um... just so you know... she's changed." Safria gave him an ominous look and stepped out, closing the door behind her.

“She’s not the only one that’s changed.” Charter saw Safria Leave, he then looked at the side of the room and saw his sword. As Charter grabbed his sword he looked down at Esmeralda.” Es wake up Es.” Charter lightly tapped Esmerelda cheek.

Esmeralda's eyes slowly fluttered open. She looked at Charter like he was a part of a dream. "Char... ter? Is that you?"

Character kneeled down and put his hand on her cheek.” I’m back Es and no you’re not dreaming.”

She smiled gently. "Oh, Charter... I've been waiting for your return." Gradually, the room started to feel heavier. Despite this, the tray and dishes Safria had dropped, as well as various other objects, floated in the air. Even as Es smiled so sweetly, her hair darkened and started to float on its own.

“I’m happy to see you to Es, how have you been? I’m sorry I left but I had to handle my anger, and some other things before I had to see you again.” Character also gave a gentle smile while holding his tightly.

"I've been okay," Es said through clenched teeth. The objects started to float close by, the weight pushing down getting heavier. "I'm glad you're better. I... have been dealing with anger too..."

“Really because it’s nice seeing that you’re still a horrible liar, I know you’re just itching to get something off your chest. So why don’t you just say it instead of having things float in the room.” Character kept his eyes Closed while still smiling at Esmeralda.

Esmeralda giggled, and placed their foreheads together. "Okay, here it is; I hate you... and I want to cause serious harm to you now, okay?"

“If I believed that, you would have done so already. Not to mention there is no amount of pain you can do that hasn’t been done to me yet.”

Esmeralda's smile qiickly turned into a sneer. "Don't be so full of yourself." What felt like very strong invisible hands wrapped around Charter's neck and squeezed. "It is one of your worst traits. Almost as bad as you lack of loyalty!"

Charter didn't flinch at him being chocked. "Lack of Loyalty, ou you mean me and your sister. Yes I slept with your sister, now are you going to let me explain why I did it." Charter glared at Esmeralda. "Or do you want me to fight back, because I don't want to hurt you Es."

Esmeralda cackled, an evil sounding laugh. "Like you would ever hurt little ol' Esmeralda..." She readied another invisible fist to clock him while squeezing even harder.

Charter took the blow and the chocking was slowly starting to get to him, he had to remember that Es has corruption in her and he had to bury his feelings for Esmeralda. Charter stood up and grabbed Esmeralda shoulder. " I'm going to say this one last time Es, are you going to let me explain why I did what I did or do you want to keep doing what your doing? Are you trying to kill me, you think that will make you feel better?" Charter said in a calm tone, trying to keep his tone of voice calm.

"Yes!" A tear rolled down her cheek. "No! I... I don't know!" She lift her hand, a swirl of light magic in it. Darkness crept into in, and it popped like a balloon. Esmeralda yelped, releasing Charter and grasping her wrist, her palm singed. From the shocked look on her face, nothing like that had happened before. "I... I can't use my light magic," she muttered, staring at her slightly smoking hand.

Charter grabbed Esmeralda and headbutted her. "Are you joking, since when you were this weak! You mean to tell that all that training you did under others was for nothing, are you this pathetic!? Were is the Esmeralda that wanted to make herself stronger to protect herself so she wouldn't have to rely on people saving her, where's that Esmeralda!?" Charter protested.

Esmeralda held her head in pain. "You... you hit me!" She sent a psychic punch into his gut, and started sending the objects floating about at him, including several sharp objects.

Charter started to doge the some of the objects, while also grabbing the sharp objects and shoving them deep into the ground. The way Charter evaded all the floating objects showed that his training with the warlord god was not wasted, Charter drove all the sharp objects into the ground and looked at Esmeralda." Ou come on now, it was a headbutt hell I let you choke me punch me you think I wanted to hit you. Your spiting in the face of every person that trained, are you just gonna let your corruption win and have it poison our child?!"

The floating objects stopped, then fell to the ground. "N-no! I won't let it... h-hurt my baby..." Esmeralda held her head and squeezed her eyes shut. Slowly, her hair started to shift back to blonde.

Charter slowly walked to Esmerelda." Es are you back to normal?" Charter put his hand on Emerelda shoulder waiting for an answer.

"Don't touch me," she said softly while covering her face, but didn't stop him. "What... possible excuse could you give me for cheating on me with my sister?"

Character sighed.” Es me and your sister were both grieving, we both thought we lost you forever. So we went out talked, and in my mind I wasn’t thinking straight my I don’t know something in me just saw you in Safria. And I acted on it, it wasn’t right but it happened. I’m sorry I betrayed your trust in me, now all I want is to earn that trust back.”

Esmeralda turned away. "W-well... i-it's too late. B-because I already cheated on you. How... h-how does that make you feel?"

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Charter didn't say anything, he turned Esmeralda around and held a what looked like a wedding band in his hand. Though it seemed to be longer then normal. "Were gonna do something Es, were going too tell each other every single horrible thing we did since Hastu took you.With every horrible thing we cut this wedding band, for instance, I slept with your sister." Charter grabbed two sharp object and used one of them to cut a part of the band." Your turn." Charter handed Esmerelda a sharp knife.

Esmeralda held the knife firmly, feeling its weight. "I... I slept with Matrim to get revenge on you, both spiting you... and using Matrim in the process..." She cut the band.

Charter held the knife and squeezed it." The last high priest of Hastur, I killed people that were looking to join them they surrendered to men and I sent Slone after them, as for the priest I sliced her open and broke her ribs individually until finally killing her." Charter cut a big chunk of the band.

Esmeralda squeezed her eyes for a moment. Before cutting the band again, she said, "I... I was tricked into killing an innocent boy while trying to escape."

Charter told Esmerelda about every cultist he killed and how he tortured them, how he burned some alive. Tore out there guts and lungs, and boiled some alive.

Esmeralda, in turn, told him about all the men and women she enjoyed killing while under the corruption, and how she had been tricked into killing her brother.

"Wow That bastard god really changed us hasn't he, the two most good people in Terra. He's turned them into monsters. We can't let this be it, we can't let this change us and let him win you know that right?"

Esmeralda nodded. "I know. But... it's hard to fight it." Es looked down at her burned hand. "The corruption comes and goes like waves. It makes me want to do things. To hurt people. To be selfish. At its worse moments, they feel like natural thoughts. I... I'm scared. Not jist for me... but..." She placed a hand on her belly.

Charter keeled down, and lifted Esmeralda shirt. He placed his hand on Es belly and felt a small kick coming from it, he then placed his head on her belly." We have to try, we must be better then this. We may never be the people we once were how could we, we've done some horrible things. But for the sake of our child we have to deal with our issues." Charter stood up and held Es hand. "We have to stick together on this, I love you more than anything we've both made mistakes when we were not ourselves. We can fix this but we need each other I forgive you Es for what you did, now can you forgive me and let me help you?"

Es sighed. "Forgiving... will take time, but..." She took his hand. "I do want your help."

Character hugged Esmeralda and started rubbing her head.” I will be here for you Es, and no one will take you from me this time.”

"And... if they do... will you come for me?" Es asked meekly.

Charter stooped hugging Es and looked her did in her eyes, and he gave her a look that she never seen from him. He looked like he was a different person, one that was filled with anger. "Es you heard what I did just to find you, imagine what I will do to keep you and our child safe. No one will ever take you and torture you ever again, not when i'm breathing."

Esmeralda nodded. "Thank you, Charter." She chuckled. "So... where did you go all this time?"

"I went to the land of the gods train with the warlord god, was the toughest training of my life. Saw some of my old family members, and they wanted me to come back here but I had to get stronger first. And let's just say me and the warlord god got into a argument."

"Oh?" Es placed her hands on her hips. "Did you get in trouble over little ol' me?"

"Let's just say that, me and the warlord god got into a very well... We fought for a good while to, so much so that the goddess of compassion got involved, apparently Elma asked her to look for me and that Elma and you were worried about me. "

"We were... I mean... she... was..." Es rubbed his cheek. "You... look older. More then a month or two. How much time passed while you were there?"

"It's been a month! I though I was gone for a year, that's why I thought that's why you were so angry with me. It's only been a month!" Charter rubbed his head at the shocking news.

Esmeralda giggled. "So you got an entire year's training in only a month, huh? Many people would be envious of you."

“Ah Well it doesn’t matter, I’m back now. I left because I thought I was gonna make things worse for you but it turned out me Leaving made things worse huh?”

Esmeralda slowly shrugged. "I... don't know. It sounds like, with your anger, you were in a really bad place. I mean, you did threaten a doctor just for asking you to leave. Are you... better? Is your anger dealt with?"

“Yeah I’m just fine now, better than ever actually.” Character looked to the door.” We should probably show everyone that you’re alright, Hell they probably think you’re still losing it.”

Esmeralda nodded, and walked to the door with him. Opening it, they found Safria desperately trying to keep the guards from rishing in. "C-Charter can handle it, I'm sure!"

“Wow thanks for the confidence Safria, I very much appreciate it.” Character says while smiling at her, and his arm wrapped around Esmeralda.”Wow we made an uproar haven’t we?”

Es nodded. "It's okay, everyone. I'm not going to kill him. At least not yet. Mmmmmaybe in his sleep..."

“She’s joking around guys, she doesn’t mean it. Now then you can all go back to your post, everything is just fine here.”

The guards grumbled, giving Charter looks of concern and Esmeralda warning looks before walking off. "Is everything... good?" Safria asked.

Esmeralda sighed. "Everything is.... better. But it'll take a long time until they can be good again..."

“We’re on talking terms, eventually I will make things better.” Character started hugging Esmeralda and kissed her cheek.” But for now, we’re fine. I think I’m gonna stay around for a few days, find out what’s been going on for the past month. And also helping my love here.”

"Does that mean you'll be going away again?" Safria asked.

“If by going away you mean getting back to hunting Cultest then yes, I gave those bastard a month of rest. I’ve got a month of killing to get back to, but if you excuse me.” Character picked up Esmeralda.” I need to mend things over with Es here, after all I got well in my case a years worth of attention to give back to her. And I’m sure it’s been a while since she’s been all pampered.”

Esmeralda shrugged. "The others have been very kind to me. More then I have been to them. Mags... in paticular..." She trailed off.

“Well I know you more, besides you can’t honestly say you haven’t missed me pampering you daily?”

Esmeralda frowned. "Maybe a little. But don't think you'll be completely off the hook for everything. Including headbutting me."

Safria raised an eyebrow. "You headbutted her?"

Charter rolled his eyes and gently put down Esmeralda." Look she was in a well bad state, were she was chocking me and punching me. I think you can take one head but, as compared to what you did with those powers of yours."

Esmeralda waved her hand dismissively. "Yeah, yeah. Come on. My feet feel swollen, and they ain't gonna rub themselves."

Charter crossed his arms." You know your getting to comfortable with this, fine I'll do it. But on two condition, one we take you back to your room i'm sure you could use a change of scenery. And for one kiss, just for the sake of it."

Esmeralda sighed, but slowly nodded, closing her eyes and puckering her lips.

Charter leaned in but thought about it, charter sighed and kissed Esmeralda forehead. Es opened her eyes in confusion." I need to earn your trust again, I don't want you to feel forced into kissing me." Now come on let's head back to the library/your room, Elma has been taking really good care of it."

Esmeralda nodded, taking his hand and walking down the hall with him.

 

[Dahlexpert]

The fallowing is done by Dhalexpert&ZombieSplitter53

Facing your last days

Hell

Alice is once again tied to the tree the chains still wrapped around her arms, the demons still torturing her. But Alice is just laughing at them. "Ha Ha, ou come on, is that all you got?! You can pull my guts out my teeth, hit me with whips it doesn't matter all your doing is making me stronger!"

"My, my, my," came a familiar, sultry voice from behind the pillar. "Such a fire. You should calm down a bit though. You'll burn out too early."

Alice smiled at the sound of the voice, but the demons bowed out of respect and fear." Well now this is most surprising Shōmetsu it's been a while how have you been?"

Shōmetsu jumped into view. "So you do remember me! I was so afraid pain had driven you more insane then you already were!" She waved the demons away. "As for your question, better then you. Yeesh, you're a mess..."

"Well these worthless demons thought they could get me to scream in agony, but all they did was anger me. I'm still sane do you mind healing me up, I rather not have my guts hanging out and I would like my teeth and eye back please." Alice looked at the chains." Ou and could you let me down?"

Shōmetsu rubbed her chin. "Hmm... I suppose for a while, sure." She smirk and snapped her fingers. Alice immediately burst into a white hot flame, intense pain consuming her until she was reduced to a pile of ashes. A few moments later, she reformed, outside the chains and fully healed. "Sorry, but that is the closest I can do to healing someone down here. Even my powers are limited in your world's Hell."

Alice screamed in pain. "Ugh damn it that stings you could have given me just a little bit of a warning before doing that, as if I haven't been through enough torment down here as the jokes of demons. By the way why are you down here anyway?"

"Why else?! Because Alice is here!" Shōmetsu leaned against her shoulder. "So how ya doing? I see you're dead now. How's that working out for you? How'd it happen? I... wasn't paying attention to be honest..."

"Right well long story short, that raider army that I used to fight you. Well we took a country beat down two others, and they brought four armies to fight my army they one barley. And I fought my former friend/ teacher and she killed me. So that's why I’m down here, I lost an army and now I’m here."

"Cool, cool. I mean, not cool, but... you know what I mean." The Demon Lord casually looked at her nails. "So, do you know how long they have you down here in torment? Bet it is pretty long."

"Probably I mean after all I did kill who knows how many people, Got Tecunte killed revived Grimora and am the lover of." The moment Alice thought about Seclevar, her shoulder slumped. "Let's not talk about him, anyway I have no idea how long I’m goanna be down here, I’m just worried about my men and the person I care about."

Shōmetsu looked around slowly, then asked, "You want me to get you out early?"

"And go were, besides if you do help me then won't you get in trouble with the gods for helping the person that went to War with Terra. No for your own safety you probable shouldn't help me." Alice said with some bitterness in her voice.

"Oh, come now. I live to cause them trouble." Shōmetsu shrugged. "Besides, you would only get out early relative to Terra Dolor. For you... you'll still serve your entire time."

"Well as long as you won't get in trouble, and I can see Grimora and my love again. As well as have some fun with you then I don't mind a small transfer."

Shōmetsu clapped her hands together. "Wonderful! Now... let's find out how long you are here for." She reached her hand to the side, right through an invisible tear in space, and yanked out Anju.

"Damn it, why do people keep pulling me along like a..." Anju yelped. "Shōmetsu! Are you here for revenge for when Charter and Alice's crew beat you?" She looked to the side and jumped again. "Oh... h-hi, Alice..."

"Hello Anju I see your doing well, sorry for the inconvenience. How are you feeling after going to the frozen part of Hell?"

"Um... okay..." Anju gave Alice a nervous look. "Did you... somehow call Shōmetsu to kill me for sentancing you here?"

Alice Eyes widen and her claws extended. "No in fact I diden't know about that." Alice grabbed Anju. "You sentenced me down here to demons!" Alice took a deep breath and let go of Anju." Just tell me how long i'm down here."

"Well... we aren't normally supposed to. It isn't usually even a set number, what with how the person reacts to penance, and the special nature of your particular penance..."

Shōmetsu rolled her eyes. "Just give us a number or a beat you with your own severed arm."

Anju huffed, and pulled out a calculator. Punching numbers, she muttered, "Given the all enclusive nature of this penance, the severity of Alice's crimes, and her own willpower and how long it would actually take to break her and make her feel the true weight of her sins, around... twenty... thousand years..."

Alice eyes widened at the sound of that." Twenty thousand years! I would be trapped in this place for twenty thousand years, what the hell." Alice put her hand on her head. "You know what yea I’m ready to get out of here, because I’ll be damned if I’m stuck here for twenty thousand years, if so then I will kill every demon it this pit!" Alice yelled to the heavens.


"Excellent. Here." Shōmetsu reached into a pouch and counted out ten seeds. "Swallow these."

"What are you doing!?" Anju rushed forward. "Those are seeds from the tree of time! Time manipulation is strictly prohibited by..."

"By your gods. My people don't give a crap." The Demon Lord placed her hand over Anju's face and shoved her back, then offered the seed to Alice. "Swallow these. No chewing."


Alice grabbed the seeds and looked at them, she then looked at Anju.” What will happen if I swallow these seeds and what do I have to give in return?”

 

[Dahlexpert]

Part 2


"Give?" Shōmetsu laughed. "You give nothing. Like I said, annoying the Terrian gods is what I live for. As for what they do, they'll make time pass a lot quicker for you. Like I said, you'll still have to serve out your time. But time away from you will pass by a lot slower, so you'll be out sooner relative to the rest of the world."


"So I give nothing in return, and let me be honest there are some gods I would love to piss off." Alice looked at the seeds again, and ate them swallowing them instantly.

After a few moments, she felt woozy and her stomach churned. Her body shook uncontrollably. "I should have probably mention feeding them to someone is usually to use the person as a sacrifice." Shōmetsu smiled nervously. "So you could say... what is about to hapoen is kinda like a price."

Alice felt an intense pain, like something inside was trying to push out. That's exactly what it was, as she started to grow and swell before her entire body burst into pieces, a great, blue tree growing out of her and digging into the ground. As it grew and grew to nearly a hundred feet, the chunks of Alice slowly pulled together into a single being again.

Anju grimaced. "That... look like it really hurt..."

Alice yelled in pain and looked at Shōmetsu in anger." You’re very lucky I don't have my ax right now, this is how you treat your friends!?"

The Demon Lord held up her hands. "Sorry, sorry! But it worked, right?" She waved her hand up. "This tree will live for two weeks. And while it does, for every minute that passes, a year will pass for anything within twenty feet of this tree."

Anju rubbed her head. "The gods are not going to like this when they find out..."

"And why does it matter to them?" Shōmetsu held her hands on her hips. "She is still technically doing her time. And I will personally make sure there is a constant parade of demons here. They'll love the fact that they can spend as much time as they want torturing her and leave with mere seconds passing."

"That's good to hear, now can I for the love of the gods can I please go see Grimora and the rest of them. I would like to see my friends again and of course see you more as well." Alice said in an annoyed and depressed tone.

Anju sighed, spinning her foot around herself to form a portal back to Sind. She disappeared, and for the longest time, nothing happened. "Ahem..." Shōmetsu chuckled nervously. "She should probably be only a few seconds... but a few seconds are days in here. Um..." She opened a portal. "I'll be back when she gets here."

True to the Demon Lord's word, demons were sent to keep up the torture. A week later, three demons were having their way with Alice, the former vampire conqueror covered in their vicious fluids, when Grimora finally arrived. "Get off her!" Grimora shooed them away like pesky birds. "H-hey, Alice..."

Alive laid on the ground, covered in fluid. It reminded her of what happen to her back in the vampire prisons. Slowly Alice stood up with sadness in her eyes, until she saw Grimora. And here anger returned her nails turned into claws and her teeth became fangs her eyes went black when she saw Grimora." I want to kill them, I want to annihilate them. I will crush them under my heal."

Grimora let out a soft sob. Despite the mess, she wrapped her arms around Alice and held her tightly. "I'm so sorry..."

Alice slowly wrapped her arms around Grimora, tears started to come down Alice face. Because for the first time she felt like someone cared for her enough to actually come for her, Alice lit out a loud cry as she was crying in Grimora arms.

After a while, Grimora pulled back, wiping Alice's cheeks. "I tried," she said softly. "I really tried. You have to believe, I never wanted this for you. I don't care what anyone says. You were my friend. You are my friend."

Alice once again hugged Grimora." I know, after all your here, you just showing up and helping me already told me that you tried." Alice let go of Grimora. "You already did more then what my family ever did for me, just by showing up." Tears started to fall off Alice cheeks again.

Grimora sighed. "Anju told me about this tree as I was rushing over. I'm sorry it is your only option. I-I'll... I'll visit you as often as I can, I swear."

"That's good to know, I will endure. And once i'm free I will destroy the ones that did this to me."

"Revenge should be the last thing on your mind," Grimora insisted, and looked away. "Besides, it might be hard to get considering... what happens after you're finished here."

Alice looked confused.” Wait what do you mean, what happens when my time is served down here?”

Grimora sighed. "Even after all the pain, Taydar still doesn't think you should be free to enter paradise. So... one of two things will happen. You'll either spend the rest of eternity as a resident of Sind... or be reincarnated."

Alice eyes widen, in anger and she slowly stood up and in a fit of rage Alice started to kill the demons that tortured her.

Grimora held out a hand to stop her, but didn't. She just stood there and waited for her to get it out of her system.

The demons started running out of fear, they finally saw the Alice that was a leader and who conquered Halvan. Alice used the chains that held her to bring Demons to her, by wrapping it around their neck and quickly snapping it back to crack there neck. Her fangs were covered in blood, and after what felt like years passed Alice finally calmed down and made her way to Grimora.

Grimora only pouted. "Listen... I know it is ideal. But... b-but I need to know what you what you want. With this tree, I only have two weeks to convince my father. Forget what I want, forget what Seclavar wants. Would you rather remain as a spectre in Sind... or start life over again on Terra?"

Alice started punching the ground constantly." It's not fair! I live a life of Misery and pain, and my only choices is to continue to be missourible but keep my friends. Or be brought back and forget the rest of you! What kind of cruelty is this?"

"It... isn't all bad," Grimora said with a sad smile. "You won't be punished in Sind. You'll exist without pain. You just... w-won't have a physical body, so you could... never be with Seclavar. O-or you can get a second chance at life, and a second chance to be worthy of paradise, just... n-no memories of this life. Not entirely anyway."

"So my choices are to be without the person I love, and to be a ghost forever. Or get a second chance of life and forget all of you, and all that I've done." Alice lowered her head. "I think I want a second chance."

Grimora slowly nodded, placing a hand on her shoulder. "I... I was okay with either... but Seclavar wanted reincarnation. He wanted to be with you, but to be unable to touch you again when you were right there would be too hard. Plus... he wanted you to have a chance to show what a good person you really are deep down." She shrugged. "Who knows? Maybe... he'll find you, and you'll fall in love all over again."

"Hum I figured that me being a sprite would be tortured for the both of you, and that you both would try to bring me back. I guess me getting a second chance is better for all. Besides I have no family or nation to go back to."

Grimora nodded. "Then I know what to push for. I... I will visit you here. As much as I can. I'm sorry you have to be here so long..."

"Don't worry about it, I'm goanna spend my final days fighting. Might as well enjoy my blood lust, and let it take over me might as well spend my final days as a monster."

Grimora shook her head, knowing Alice wouldn't last as long as she thought. "Goodbye, Alice. I... I will see you soon enough..."

“Goodbye Grimora I Look forward to our next talk.” Alice extended her claws and went back to her killing.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Frostlich1228 & ZombieSplitter53
Darkness of Death
Part One

The sprawling, vast city of Hell, Sind, stretched out for miles and miles in all directions. Souls of all races and walks of life moved to and fro, await their final judgement or their final ascension to paradise. One such soul moved purposely through the city to its very heart. A new arrival, she wasn't sure what compelled her so, but she new she had to get to the palace of Grimora right away. She had no way of knowing how long she had been there, minutes, hours, or days. All the more reason to get a move on.

The soul was only semi aware, but as she reached the City of Sind she became something with a little more tangible thought. She looked around at her surroundings, the layout of hell of what it looked like seemingly familiar to the soul.

After a while, an individual, a full person, started walking along side her. This woman, with blue-green skin and red-orange hair said nothing, seeming to wait to be noticed.

And notice quickly she did, the Soul 'reaching' out with some apprehension.

Anju took the soul's hand gently in her own. "It's okay, dear. It's okay. You're in good hands. Do remember anything? How you got here? Who you are?"

"I... I'm... My name is... My name is Kva." The Soul formed more revealing the iconic helmet, her voice seeming extremely vulnerable and confused.

She suddenly looked around. "T... Titania! No... I... I'm..."

Anju took a hold of her arms. "It's okay! Please, calm yourself. You're okay... in a manner of speaking. As is Titania... in her own way..."

"I... I'm..." The Ghost of Kva shook her head. "I'm dead, aren't I?"

Anju nodded. "You died after a heated fight with Alice. You both died from your injuries."

"Anju... Right?" Kva asked, calming herself down a little. "And this is Sind again, isn't it?"

"It is." Anju looked around them. "This place serves two purposes. First, it houses those who have paid their penance, and await their calling to paradise. Second... it is home to new arrivals, awaiting judgement and their place in Hell. Almost everyone must serve time for one sin or another."

"So... What you're saying is I have to serve my penance? Even After everything l have done for you all?" Kva asked, sighing lightly. "So... Is this standard practice then, or is it Grimora's personal order?"

Anju giggled, bumping her hip into Kva's. "I said most people. You should listen better. On occasion, there is someone with a pure soul who did know wrong. Usually the young ones, but sometimes older men and women. And then there are special cases. Cases... like yours."

"Oh?" Kva seemed intrigued.

"Come on." Anju took her slightly transpirant hand and pulled her along. "There are a few people you need to see. I'm sure you can probably guess a few of them."

Kva nodded, following along, mentally preparing herself.

Making it up the stairs to the Sind palace, the first person she spotted was expected, but not exactly welcome. "Well, well, well," Grimora said, folding her arms. "What have we here?"

Kva crossed her arms. "What? Upset you couldn't kill me yourself?"

Grimora stomped her foot. "Your life or death is pointless to me. I'm upset you killed my best friend, stupid!"

"Well your 'best friend' killed my former love, enslaved my best friend, killed and enslaved countless other people... And then killed me." Kva said with some venom. "And even after all I did to save you, all we did... Never mind... It hardly matters now..."

Grimora glared at her and angrily walked forward. "If it was up to me, you would be here for the next thousand years, got it?"

"Then it's a good thing it's not up to you, is it?" Kva bit back. "You know... As a Priest of Taydar, many worshiped you, we were taught that you were a kind God, benevolent and while you represented Darkness, Darkness wasn't all terrible... You are supposed to help provide peace... If I knew you would be responsible for so much suffering..."

Grimora's expression fell. "You... you don't know what it's like. Followers of my father might worship me, but everyone else hates me. When people keep treating you like a bad goddess... eventually you feel like being one..."

"I didn't think you were bad... That's why even after knowing you worked with Tecunte... I put my own soul in danger to save you." The Dhampir pointed out.

Grimora turned away. "N-no you didn't. You just wanted to help your friend, Eraqus." It sounded like she was trying to convince herself of that as much as declare it.

"Eraqus was a good fighter and friend, but he gave his life noblely, it was Mina who wanted him back..." Kva explained.

Grimora was silent for a bit, bwfore saying, "It... is hard to be mad at you when you died for what you believed in..."

Kva seemed almost surprised by the Goddess' words, then smiled slightly, looking back over at Anju.

Anju nodded to her. She let out a quick whistle. Before Kva came a reaper, the same reaper that had been serving Alice up to, and shortly after, her death. He bowed lightly. "Greetings, Pristess of Death."

"I remember you... You're Alice's Reaper... Right?" The Phantasmagorical Woman asked.

"That's right." He shook his head. "But I was killed early. I did not warn my place as I should have."

"Which is why he needs to be replaced," said a familiar deep voice behind Kva.

Turning around, she saw her diety of worship, causing her to smile gently. "So... Are you suggesting... What I think you're suggesting?"

Taydar slowly nodded. "You're service and loyalty has gone far beyond that of your average mortal. In life, you were a valuable follower. A mortal ally. I would like to have you continue your service, even in death. But... the choice is yours. It is not an easy job, and there are those that would fear and reject you, but you will have power, more then in life. And you will have the god of Death backing your every move."

"Fear and Rejection? Par for the course with me..." The Dhampir nodded. "This is the greatest honor to be bestowed upon a priest of Taydar."

Taydar bowed his head. "Please, step over to the reaper to recieve my gift to you."

"But... I would be a fool not to ask... What exactly does this job entail? How much will I be walking among the world of the living?" The Dhampir slightly held up a hand.

"Not as much... as you might like," Taydar said truthfully. "You will be tasked with reaping strong, difficult souls that might resist death, or particularly wicked souls who's darkness might give them strength in death. Similarly, you will guide pure souls who get lost on their way to the after life." He smiled. "You will... be permitted to visit the living world for your own reasons on occasion too... if you so desire."

Kva nodded her head, "I would... I left behind someone very important..."

"You mean Titania, right?" Anju placed a hand on her chest. "Her soul has darkened a bit since your... ahem, funeral. She did not take your death well, as expected. It might do her good to see you again, however briefly."

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Darkness of Death
Part Two

Kva closed her eyes, "I suppose that will have to do until I can be with her again..."

Alice's former Reaper extended his hand. "Come. Except your new responsibility."

Kva took a deep breath, her life, or rather her unlife, was about to change dramatically forever as she took the Reaper's hand.

She could feel power flowing into her, at first feeling as strong as in life, then even stronger. Her form didn't change too dramatically. Besides looking a bit pale, she didn't take on the ghastly appearance of the other reaper, either because of some personal reason or because Taydar wished it so. She got a new set of clothing to go with the new form, and a large, dangerous looking scythe.

The Scythe pulsed red like a heartbeat, reminiscent of her previous rapier. Her leather armor transformed into a long Black cloak, trailing down to her legs and dissolving into black mist. Her signature mask took gained a hood, the metal point of the mask itself bending more downward, taking on an appearance slightly reminiscent of a plague doctor.

Her Red eyes glowed brightly, a contrast to the black that surrounded her, the tips of her fingers also red like blood, occasionally even dripping something from them, likely an echo of how she died.

The former Reaper was a reaper no longer. He was just a man, a well built human who looked to have had been in his thirties. He dropped to a knee, his energy all gone. He looked up and smiled tiredly. "You look good. Pull it off pretty nicely."

She placed a Misty, blood covered hand on his shoulder. "Go. Rest."

He nodded, slowly standing up and walking over to Anju. Taydar came over, looking her over. "Not bad, right Grimora?"

The goddess of Darkness peaked over and scoffed. "Yeah, I... guess she looks kinda cool. But can she get the job done?"

"I'm sure she can." Taydar finally cracked a smile at the new reaper.

"So. Is this the part where you test me?" Kva asked, the Scythe feeling foreign I'm her hands, but also natural, it was the preferred weapon of her order after all.

Taydar nodded, taking several steps back and unsheathing a fairly large sword, even for the fairly large man. "Are you ready?"

"Of course." Kva nodded, "Ready as I'll ever be..."

Taydar rolled his neck and slowly approached, eueing his new reaper to see how she would react.

It took her a moment to realize what was happening, when she did, her eyes widened. "Ah... I see..."

Taydar shrugged. "You must understand, Reapers are reaistant to most physical damage, but certain magics can leave them vulnerable and there is an odd fascination with some humans that have led to so called "Reaper Hunters". I need to be sure my chosen can defend themselves."

"What do these Reaper Hunters gain?" Kva asked, readying herself.

Taydar shrugged. "There are some dark mages out there that can do dark things with a reaper's soul, and the weapons are pretty popular. Besides that, fame and notoriety. They like to go into towns, claiming someone has been targetted by a reaper, then kill one to 'save' the person for large payouts, despite the fact that what they claim isn't even how it works most of the time."

Kva sighed, "Very well. I can show you just what I can do."

Taydar nodded, and quickly swung his sword at her.

Kva turned into fog and dodged to the side, raising her new Scythe and bringing it down towards him.

Taydar turned with incredible speed and blocked. "Good. You are already mixing your old techniques with your new weapon. I take it you've always been a fast study."

"Something like that." Kva let out a flurry of attacks, jumping over him uncannily and trying to strike at his neck.

Taydar ducked back in just the knick of time, and stomped his foot down, sending out a shock wave intended to throw Kva off while he thrust his sword.

The stomping did catch her off guard, but Kva rolled into the motion, dodging the sword swing and holding her hand out, testing if her Blood Based magic still worked.

It did, and Taydar raised his sword defensively to block whatever was incoming.

She tried to use the blood on her fingers, swiping her hands and sending forward phantasmic, ghostly arcs of crimson at the Death God.

They slammed into his sword, pushing the god back slightly. "Good, good! Now let's turn things up a bit!" I mere moments, he grew to triple his size, and set forth a horizontal sweep.

Kva howered over it, the blade passing harmlessly through her cloak, she returned by trying to quickly sweep his legs with her Pole Weapon.

The quick move caught him off guard. He was too big and heavy to knock over, but he did stumble back a bit.

Kva followed, slashing quickly with the weapon as she turned her arm into a spike of blood, lunging it forward to try and impale him.

The Death god grunted as the spike plunged into his gut. A trickle of blood rolled down his cheek, and he smiled. "I would count that as a pass."

Kva nodded, "It will take some time to discover the full capabilities of my new form, but I can get used to this."

Grimora scoffed. "You know he was going easy on you, right?"

Kva just looked over at Grimora, she couldn't see her facial features through the mask, but she could almost feel the condescension from her.

Taydar let out a hearty laugh as his wound quickly healed, armor and all, and he shrank down to his normal, albeit still rather large, size. He placed a hand on Kva's shoulder. "You two are already like bickering sisters. It is nice to see after... after losing a daughter... and nearly losing the other."

"I'm sure my Mother would understand how you feel..." Kva noted, her mind drifting towards the thought of what her death would do to her parents and Mina.

Taydar rubbed her shoulder. "Now is the time for you to get used to your powers before your work officially begins. Use that time how you see fit. If, for example, there are those you failed to say goodbye to... or those who took your death quite poorly..."

"Yeah... I think I'll do that..." Kva walked by Taydar, but she stopped and quickly whispered in her ear. "Make sure Alice Valentine gets the punishment she deserves... She was close with your daughter..."

Taydar nodded. "I will do what I can," he whispered back. "We have been keeping an eye on that particular soul."

"Thank you... Come... See me when you're ready to go..." Kva nodded, sighing slightly beforehand.

Taydar nodded. "Good luck, my dear."

 

[Dahlexpert]

The return of the Norscan raiders

On the Islands of Terra

The norscan had made there docks waited for days, and within two weeks their allies came to the island but others didn’t such as Ergo, Rumi, Marlee, Babi and her sprit friend, and Gravel. Though Wulfric and Lorica figured Ergo wouldn’t come but the others they were disappointed in, but they couldn’t think about their former friends they had their people to think about their people and how to feed them. Not to mention Crixus and how they can help him out. Wulfric went to Lorica who was making a spear out of wood. “Lorica we can’t stay here, we the food here can’t sustain us not for long anyway.”
Lorica stood up and looked at Wulfric.” We need to go back to the main land, Helvan is week but they will kill us on the spot or hunt us down. We need to some were that’s weak that’s not expecting us.”

Wulfric rubbed his beard.” Hum you know Virando was mysteriously absent during our down fall even though they were closer to us than Mirandia.”

“Hum and they do have a lot of food and fresh water, as well as plains for us to get plenty of food from as well as water. It’s plentiful however we can’t ship all the food to this island it will spoil and be rotten.”

“I know that’ why I think we should make cams, if we conquer a city and stay there we know that the lords won’t let us just keep it. However if we make camps and raid villages and towns maybe a city or two, than we move on and make a camp in the forest.”

“So we become a horde than?” Lorica stopped making a spear and stood up.” I’m fine with that, honestly I think that’s better than us keeping a city. After all its goanna be snowing soon and not to mention most food will be going into storage homes by now, we have to raid those to get food.”

“So we have a plane, we go to Virando and destroy the shipyard just like we normally do after we take the port we need to keep moving, and pack up. Hum we should probably start capturing some of the local wildlife once we get there as well.” Lorica stood up and looked at Satako grave.” We need this, our people will starve and will probably start fighting each other and we will whip ourselves out. Ou lord Alice got what she wanted her people are free, but we know she used us to free them.”

“I know, but she made us stronger than any raider group. Were our own people, we need to fallow our own path anyway we leave in a few days.”

As the raiders got on their warship they made their way to the Virando ports, they used a flag of Virando to keep the suspension down but when they turned around to their broad side they fired upon the docks killing worked and sailors as they fired their first volley, they then fired there mortors on to the ships bringing down there sails. Once the ships were done for The Norscans made their way on the deck and charged the docks killing every worker there, the raiders then quickly made their way to the small town easily killing the guard’s man and breaking the gates. Once in the town the raiders started killing every guard’s man that they saw while they left the civilians alone, after a few hours the town was conquered by the norse men.

“Right we have probley a few days before people start going to the nearest town and telling them of what happened.” Loricia pointed out.” Best we get to looting and getting out of here before then.” Lorica looked at their men. “Listen up we have a few days before the reinforcements comes, so take anything that isn’t nailed down and if you see any people take them to. We can use people that we can put to work any men that you find kill them woman and children we keep, Now move out!” Lorica ordered

The norscans plundered plenty of food, weapons, Leather, positons, and other exotics they also saw some civilians that were left behind mostly woman and children. They were brought to Lorica who just looked at them and patted their shoulders and told them that they will not die if they listened to her.

As for Wulfric he was in the prisons releasing to prisoners and bringing them to their side as well as raided alchemist shops and inns, taking drinks water and honey.” Yo Lorica I think we picked this place clean, we best get moving it’s been a day already by now that army is on its way here best get to the plains.”

“Agreed I’ll keep an eye on our newest civilians, don’t want to let them get away after all whose goanna farm for us best we handle them with care though.”

“Hum we can also raid a few farms along the way tame some horse and head east, ugh going to Kemar is goanna be a pain. Come along we have a long way to get go.” The norscan parted ways with Scarlet who took Alice ship and was heading back to her island. As for the remaining raiders they spent the last few days pillaging farms and attacking trader caravans. They hid in the forest making temporary camps until they finally made their way to Kemar.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Frostlich1228 & ZombieSplitter53
Under New Management

It took over a week straight of arguing and debating, but things had finally calmed down for the vampire megacity. The surrounding countries would not hold them responsible for Alice's actions, but everything was not all sunshine and rainbows. Not only would the doors to the city remain open, they were required to stay open so they could be regularly inspected for suspicious activity.

"I guess you could say Drăculești is on probation after a long prison sentence," Lilith said to herself as the dignitaries filed out of the meeting room, leaving only her, Lana, and a still recovering Victor. "Was it all worth it, sister?"

Lana was ragged, her dark eyeliner running and staining her face. With the damage control due to Alice, the letters to the dead soldiers as well as the construction to her friends on the Council as well as a separate monument to the deaths from the battle at Norsca, including special mention to Damian, and of course, her little girl.

"All this wouldn't have even been necessary if not for her... We were so close before... Now even after our victory it feels like the city is moments from falling apart..." She shook her head.

"The vampires are strong. We will survive. Stronger then even Alice seemed to think." Victor gave her a confident look.

Lilith, on the other hand, was not looking as confident. She might have not lost children or lovers, but she loved Alice despite all she did, mourned the loss of close allies, and felt the unbearable burden pushing down on her country. "This is my fault. All... all of this was set into motion hundreds of years ago by my mistakes..."

"We both made that mistake... I was a terrible Mother to her... Even to you..." Lana admitted, her voice sullen.

Lana slowly looked over. "When we lost our parents, you made the pain go away. You took us in and raised us right. Don't..." She slowly lowered her head. The guilt. The shame. The self hatred. It was overwhelming.

"Lady Valenestra?" Victor looked down, noting her distress.

"I drove my daughter away... I drove your sister to madness... Now... The two of them both died killing each other... You're all I have left now Lilith..." Lana'thel's eyes glanced up.

The young looking vampire burst into tears. "Mt lady," Victor said sfotly.

"Go," she said to him. I must speak privatly with..."

"My lady! Surely you don't intend to tell..."

"I said go!" Lilith snapped. "Out, now!"

"Lilith... What's the meaning of this?" The Blood Queen lifted up her head slightly.

"Lily placed her hands over her face. You know... how Alice cut off my arm?"

"Yes... If you're blaming yourself for not stopping her, don't, there was nothing you could do..." Lana held up a hand.

Lily shook her head. "She didn't cut off my arm... Victor did. Right aftet I... I murdered thebentire counsel." She stared down, deadeyed.

Lana just blinked, lifting her head up straight now. "What... Are you talking about?"

"I tried," Lily muttered. "I tried so hard. For so long. But we ran out of time, and they wouldn't listeb. We would be in the midst of a losing war with the outside if they had their way. They were endangering the populance... so I elimiated the threat..."

Lana'thel planted her feet on the ground, standing up. "Lilith... You're talking crazy... The stress must be getting to you, right dear?"

"I'm not talking crazy!" Lily stood up and grabbed Lana's blouse. "I did it! I killed them all! I... I justified it at the time, but I can't now. Not when you were friends with several of them. I'm a cold blooded murderer! No better then Alice!"

Lana'thel just stared into her eyes, almost like it was through her soul, unblinkingly. "You understand... That that would mean... You would be the cause of My friend's deaths... maybe even my Daughter's, if we had had them helping lead the army... I could've been at her side... I could've saved her..."

Lilith sulked down. "Bit had they lived... there would have been no army. They wouldn't have budged. We were on the verge of a civil war, I... I was out of options..."

Lana'thel grappled her by the collar with both hands, lifting her up. "We were close! We were so close! Now look at where we are! Everyone is dead! And you couldn't have some godsdamned fucking patience!? Do you know why she was so strong!? Do you!? Do you know why she was able to kill my daughter!?"

"I... I-I..." Lilith stuttered.

"She drank their blood! The blood of multiple anchient Vampires! That was what gave her what she needed to fight Richard and Kva together!" The Blood Queen shook her, blood running out of her eye sockets as they glowed with fury. "That's what gave her what she needed to kill my Daughter!"

"Enough!" Victor held out his axe. "Let her go! I assisted her in her actions. She could not have done it without me, so I am more at fault. If you wish to let out your anger, do it to me. But that is still the last remaining Elder you are manhandling."

Lana'thel released a hand from her, pointing it towards Victor. Her power exploded out, all the muscles in his body seized up; he could feel his blood beginning to boil painfully. "You dare!? So, this really confirmation it then... And what would you have done if I was there, huh!? Would you have killed me too!? Or Is that what you're trying to do now, Victor?"

Victor was in to much pain to speak rationally, only shouting, "N-No!"

"Lana'thel, please!" Lily pleaded. "We did it then because you were away. He wouldn't kill you, he is only trying to protect me! He can't hurt you! Not for our plans to be complete! Please, release him!"

Victor was in to much pain to speak rationally, only shouting, "N-No!"

"Lana'thel, please!" Lily pleaded. "We did it then because you were away. He wouldn't kill you, he is only trying to protect me! He can't hurt you! Not for our plans to be complete! Please, release him!"

"And why should I!? You took... Everything from me! You and Jacque were all I had! And now you tell me this!? Why shouldn't I just turn him into a cloud of blood!?" Lana yelled, shaking her as Victor felt the blood pressure building up in his body.

"B-because... acting out of anger... and revenge is everything that motivated Alice. I need you to be better then that. The entire vampire race does now."

"You mean acting like you...?" Lana'thel's voice dripped with Venom.

Lily lowered her eyes, practically whispering, "Yes... you... have to be better then me..."

Lana ceased her actions, dropping the Girl and cancelling her magic. "What I am supposed to do with you two?"

Victor collapsed, and Lilith shook her head. "I do not care what becomes of us, but our actions must not be made public. Alice must remain the villain we stay united against. Either way..." She looked up. "A change of leadership is in order. The counsel would take too long to restore, even with the junior members. We need someone we can all unite behind. A... a war hero turned queen."

"As far as I'm concerned... The Valenestra house is the villian..." The Broken woman took her seat again. "As such, House Valenestra will hereby revoke all it's rights to Draculesti Nobility, as well as it's property holdings and treasury to the Nation. Do you understand?"

Lilith nodded. "I understand... Queen Lana'thel. I am ready to serve whatever sentance you wish to give me. Just... please be leniant on Victor. They died by my hands, not his, and he was only following my orders."

"He could've stopped you. He didn't. You will both face the same fate." Lana'thel had a cold look in her eyes, like her soul was drained. "But.. I don't know what that fate should be... I could execute you for conspiracy against the Nation... I could throw you in the same prisons that broke your sister, turned her into a monster... Or I could exile you, which is the most merciful thing I can do, although, it wouldn't shock me if the Humans would just kill you for your connection to Alice..."

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Victor finally picked himself up and bowed. "Excommunication would seem the most fitting punishment given the situation." Lily reluctantly nodded in agreement.

Lana'thel rolled her eyes, unsurprised he opted for leniency. "But why should you get to live if they had to die? Why not pay out your sentence in Hell next to your sister?"

"Liliana was only trying to protect the vampire race!" Victor insisted. "All her actions were to that goal. You know yourself we were on the verge of a cicil war thanks to the Elder's hesitation. If bloodlust is needed, kill me. Like you said, I could have stopped her."

"Alice did what she did, justifying her actions under the justification of 'saving the Vampire Race as well'..." Lana pointed out, her voice cold. "The only reason you're better in my eyes than her is you have the humility to admit what you did was evil..."

Lily motioned for Victor to be silent. He technically didn't have to listen to her anymore, but he did. "Please... do whatever you think best with us." She bowed her head low. "Imprisonment, execution, excommunication... whatever you think is right."

"There is an option for you to stay here..." The Blood Queen considered. "It has been unused since the Nocturnum War, but it was meant for captured traitors... The most heinous crime..."

"You would be considered dead. Your face would be magically changed and any resemblance of your old appearance would be stripped. You would then be magically branded and forced to serve the Nobleman you most directly betrayed as a Thrall... Which would be me, in this case." The Blood Queen stared her in the eyes. "The price of your betrayal would be your free will and your identity... But you may reside in the city still and in reasonably comfortable conditions... If you think there is a death sentence waiting for you no matter what choice you make, then this would be your only means of assuring at least your life..."

"But who knows, the living races could make you a Slave out there... We are helpless right now, they know all our vulnerabilities, and the Nation of Helvan is desperate for a new workforce..."

Lilith closed her eyes. "I will... do whatever you think best. But... if you are giving me the choice..."

"I am. Would you rather try your luck out there, or stay here as a servant?" The New Queen simplified, sighing.

"I would choose servitude... for Victor. But I choose exile. I do not deserve to live in comfort, even as a servant. What I did, I did for my people... but that does not mean I didn't also betray them. I both deserve to be cast from their home... and to experience what Alice did put there. So I became like Alice... so I deserve to be treated like her."

"Very well. Victor. You will serve house Minerva until your sentence is complete. Meanwhile, Lilith Valenestra. You are hereby Exiled from Draculesti, you will be given time to gather some personal belongings, bit not much, as your wealth will be being appropriated. I expect to you to be gone from his city by the end of the day, so say your goodbyes..."

Lily nodded. "Thank you. I am... sorry for all I have done to... disappoint you." With a heavy heart and her head hing low, the once Grand Elder Liliana Alexandra Valenestra, now simply Lilith Alexa Valentine, left to prepare to depart, Victor watching her with a heavy heart.

And then, it was only her, the last remaining member of the Council and Queen of Draculesti. Not though clever planning or some Machiavellian scheme, but because everyone else was gone. Lana'thel sulked in her chair lightky, her eyes filled with pain once more.

Days later, in the city's royal prison, five of the once proud band of seven sat awaiting their fate. Gravel and Babani had been released from their mind control but were patient in their release, especially the former who was depressed over ending his friend's life. Babani's wraith sat in his armor, seemingly not a danger as long as no one approached his Netzi charge.

Lana found herself with time to see her prisoners of the Seven, specifically Marlee and Rumi, after what Jacque told her, she wasn't sure she could look them in the eyes so soon. However she was ready to see them now, walking up with Jacque at her side towards the cells they were in.

Once she reached the cell of the first three, Babani walked over, unable to reach her psychic powers thanks to a special helmet she was forced to wear. "Queen... now?" she said scratchily with her barely functional vocal cords. "Con... grats... Lana."

"I don't feel Happy... But thank you..." Lana gave the Netzi a forced, slight smile. "How are you Babani?"

The Netzi cleared her throat and tapped her helmet. "Sorry. Makes it hard. Okay. But sad. Killed... so many. The guilt... is strong..."

"It could be worse," Gravel muttered from the corner, unable to look Lana in the eyes.

"Gravel..." Lana'thel turned her gaze to him. "It wasn't your fault... It wasn't really you..."

"It doesn't matter," he said softly. "I should have been stronger. I should have... resisted. Damien is dead because of me. And had I been fighting qith you and not against you..." He looked over. "Maybe... certain other people would be alive too."

The Vampire Queen closed her eyes, "Please. I already blame myself. You don't have to feel responsible for that too..."

Babani frowned deeply. "So... what will become... of us?"

"You'll... Likely be pardoned. You were under that Monster's influence. But before that you fought her bravely. I know some of you might not accept that." Her eyes gazed at Gravel. "If you want... You can stay in here until you feel your penance is paid, or get out and go some good for the city."

Gravel thought on that. It seemed the way she worded it struck home. "I... I don't want to just sit around if there is some good I can do." He stood up. "What about Rumi and Marlee? Why are they being kept seperate from us?"

"They... Were found to have been helping Alice willingly... Despite everything..." Lana shook her head. "Maybe she manipulated them in other ways, but it still stands, they helped Alice of their own free will..."

"No.." Gravel took a step back. "That's impossible. Rumi... after everything we've been through, she... would never..." He looked devastated all over again.

"According to... My Daughter... Marlee was controlled like you all, but was released from it and after meeting with Kva... Agreed to betray Alice when the time was right... But she didn't, I don't know why." Lana continued.

"Damn it..." Gravel sat back down. "I'm sorry, La... your majesty. I just wish there was more that I could do. But... but I swear, you have my full loyalty. If you wish it... I will execute Marlee myself. I... would even... R-Rumi..."

"Don't. I know what Rumi means to you. I'll deal with their punishment myself..." The Hemomancer placed her hand against the bars. "It's funny how people who you raise and love still choose to hurt you..."

Babani and Gravel both nodded and sighed sadly. "Please check on them," Gravel requested.

Lana'thel silently agreed, making her way over to their cell, Jacque, her husband, having decided to stand by himself away from the cells, everything that has been happening taking it's toll on him as well.

Everything was unusually quiet as they approached the cell of the two woman. There wasn't even a single cat call towards the new Queen. They were naturally surprised to find the cell down open, and even more surprised to find the guard unconcious in the cell.

Lana blinked, "What the hell!"

The Queen looked around, then back at Jacque, "Something's wrong! Get the rest of the guards!"

The Silver Knight was caught off guard, he didn't have time to argue he should stay, instead quickly complied, heading up to retrieve as much manpower as he could as quick as he could and return, Lana could handle herself in a fight.

The Vampire Queen quickly entered the cell, trying to spot any sign of where they had went as she attempted to wake the guard.

There was a trail in the dirt and claw marks on the wall down the hall, heading towards the showers.

Lana'thel quickly made her way that direction, magic flowing through her.

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

Marlee laid stripped down in the corner and tied, beaten and battered, struggling to get free. The collar supressing her powers kept her from rapidly healing. "Calm down over there!" one of four prisioners having his way with Rumi said. "We'll get back to you when we're done with this traitor."

"Just keep any onlookers busy," a second said to the two corrupt guards watching the entrance to the showers. "We don't want anyone ruining our fun." He sank his teeth into Rumi's neck.

"Just hurry up," one of the guards yelled back. Seeing Lana approach, he muttered, "Shit. Hold the fort." He stepped forward and said, "Sorry, ma'am. They're fixing some things in there. Pipes and plumbing and stuff. It's to dangerous for you to go in."

"Really? Are you aware of the prison break then?" The Queen said with a great deal of skepticism, scent of blood in the air. "Because two women I expressly ordered to be under strict guard are missing and the guard watching their cell is unconscious."

"I... I-I was not aware. We... will raise the alarm right away. My partner here will escort you out for your safety."

"I can take care of myself. Let me though. The tracks from the cell led this was and if they really did escape I am the only one here than can handle them." She shot daggers at one of the guards. "That's an order. Get out of my way and start searching."

The second guard whispered something in the first one's ear. The first one momentarily grinned and nodded. "Alright. Just be careful. Some of the prisoners are allowed out of their cells at this time. Wouldn't want you to get hurt." They quickly took off in opposite directions, trying to get as far away as possible.

Stepping in, she was almost immediately confronted by the display, her own blood coming to a boil as her eyes glowed. "Get off of them! Now!"

The sound of her voice carried to the entire room, bouncing off the walls, almost as if the dark magic flowing out of her was carrying the voice on it's back.

The four men looked up. The one behind Rumi, looking to be in horrible shape, pulled out her fangs and said, "Someone cut this bitch."

One of the others stood up, picking up a shank and casually approaching Lana. "Don't worry. I'll leave you in a good enough state for us to have fun with. Little human girl is just about used up."

Lana'thel casually lifted up her hand, it glowed with magic, suddenly everyone in the room heard a loud, wet, but muffled pop from inside the man. His eyes rolled back into his head, blood gurgling up out of his throat as he fell backwards, puking bits what looked to be chunks of heart alongside the blood. "I. Said. Stop."

"Oh, shit man!" One of the three remaining rolled away and yanked up his trousers. "It's the blood queen, man! Look, I'm sorry, alright! I-I was just following orders."

"Fuck you, you were," said what looked like the boss defiantly, but looked just as scared as he and the third man stopped as well.

"All of you! Up against the far wall! If I see any of you move an inch I'll paint the walls and your friends with your guts!" She commanded, pointing to the wall furthest away. "And don't even think about running. I don't need to see you to kill you."

They all nodded, the terrified men up against the wall with incredible speed, one not even bothering to pull up his pants.

"La.. na... thel...?" came a weak voice from the floor.

"Rumi!" She rushed over, the Human Girl in bad shape. Lana'thel quickly dug her fangs into her palm, drawing a significant amount of blood and offering to her. With her other, she used her magic to stop any bleeding, barely pushing past her anger, her motherly instincts kicking back in. "Here drink, no buts..."

Rumi slowly drank, coughing up as much as she got down thanks to a punctured lung. One of her eyes was so swollon you couldn't see past the buldge, and there werr bruises and cuts all over her nide body. After drinking a bit, she looked into Lana's eyes, tears in her own, her breathing rapid and uneven.

"If... don't make it... sorry... so... sorry. I was... so stupid... thought... Alice would... never get... that far... should have... fought... Kva... so sorry..."

"Shut up... You're going to make it..." Lana'thel took a deep breath, pressing her hands against Rumi's chest, doing something that was rare even amoung other Hemomancers: Healing. Dark Magic Healing was considered to be impossible to do, but the best of the Vampire Hemomancers found a way. Lana started by moving Blood around to clot the wounds, ceasing the bleeding all together as, through the cut in her body, her own blood, carrying with it large amounts of Mana, flowed into Rumi's body. She then began the precise work of finding every cut and injury within Rumi's entire body, using the Mana within to literally stitch muscle and sinew back together with Mana.

Lana huffed tiredly, anger running her on fumes, with the death of the Council, her mentor, the only person she knew who taught blood healing was dead. Even after three centuries of practice, she was still only just above a novice in the art, and it took much out of her. "Yeah... She'll live..."

Lana seemed to get a second wind fueled on anger as she locked eyes with the Prisoners who had done this. "Do you... Have Any idea... What you've done...!? These women have spent thier lives protecting this nation! They are like children to me!"

One of the prisoners, the one who hadn't spoken yet, cried out, "They're traitors! They followed Alice Valentine, who would see the world fall under her boot! They deserved..."

Her eyes widened, "How do you know about that!? I told no one to speak of it! The only ones with outside news who could've told you would've been..." As she finished Speaking, images of the two guards from before flashed into her head, her eyes sharpening. "You know... If any of the guards told you about that, you'd tell me right? How do you think I found you all? They sold you out."

They all clenched their teeth in anger. "It... it was all their idea!" the leader of the group insisted. "They told us about them, and they set thos up! They kust wanted us to do the dirty work because they think no one would believe us if it was a prisioner's word against theirs!"

"I see..." Lana nodded as Jacque made his way back in, a number of guards rushing in behind him, including two familiar ones.

His eyes widened, rushing to Rumi's side, ordering one of the guards to throw him a Medical Kit. "Rumi... Rumi!"

"She's alive, barely... Just... Do what you can..." Lana told him sadly, her emotions switching on a dime.

Someone released Marlee, and she walked over to Lana. "I'm sorry. I told them to... to take everything out on me. But that only made them turn to her so they could... m-make me watch..."

"This is my fault! I though I could just hold you here safely under trusted watch... But I was mistaken!" Her eyes turned towards the two guards. "I should burn this entire prison to the ground!"

Everyone took a frightened step back. "W-we assure you, this is not a common occurrence," the warden said, practically hiding behind a few guards. "A-and it will never happen agree, I promise you that. These men will recieve the utmost punishment for their crimes. You have my word, so... please..."

"They will. I want them all in line for the Silver Guillotine first thing tomorrow! Move other executions out of the way if you have to!" The Queen Commanded, looking into the prisoners eyes, then to the Guards. "If I trust you to watch my prisoners, you will watch them like your life depends on it! It just might."

They all jumped, and shouted in unison, "Yes ma'am!"

She then pointed at the two guards from before, "And arrest them!"

The two were quickly grabbed. "W-what did the do?" the Warden asked, his tone implying he would believe anything she said.

"They helped set this up!" one of the prisioners said. "If we're gonna lose our heads, they should too!"

"I told the guard explicitly to keep what happened a secret. The only way these scum would know is if someone in the guards told them... And what they said supports my idea. I'll make this easy on you two, if one of you admits to aiding these criminals and points out thier accomplice, the one who came forward will be given liency... But if no one does... And if I have to pry it out of you, I promise the result will be much, much worse..." The Queen threatened, looking at those two but speaking to all of them.

"We didn't do..." One of them started.

"It was us!" The other cried out. "We were only trying to punish... I didn't know it would go this far, I swear!"

 

[ZombieSplitter53]

"Bullshit! Don't you dare lie to me! Tell me the truthl!" She walked quickly and lifted them up by their shirt collars, with one in each hand.

"I swear!" the confessing one shouted, his partner giving him a look of hatred. "They were supposed to just rough them up a little. Th-that's what my partner said. Please, I just started here! I was told this is how things go around here!"

"Th-that is not true!" The warden insisted. "I run a respectable prison. Whatever he was told was a blatant lie."

The second guard just rolled his eyes. "The thing is, we didn't actually touch the girls. We just stood here. So let us go. You can't punish us like you can those three." He looked down at the dead man. "Or him."

She walked up, an inch between them, towering over him. "Can't I? Who's going to stop me? That's right... The Seven are supposed to do that aren't they...? Like Rumi over there?"

He swallow hard and said, "Yeah, but... I... I'm... sorry?"

"Sorry? Oh... You're Sorry?" Lana pointed towards the unconscious Rumi. "Look at her. Does she look like she cares? What if that was your wife? Or your daughter? Because we are going to have a few cells free tomorrow..."

"She... she's a traitor!" the man insisted. "She worked... she worked for the woman wgo killed you daughter! She might as well have killed her herself!"

"And you don't get to decide that!" She then looked over at the Warden. "Remove them both from thier posts and arrest them. Put both of them in their former cell block and make sure all the other Prisoners know about how they sold out their cellmates. Feel free to be lax with the Guard."

The warden quickly nodded. "Get them out of here!" The guards and prisoners were taken away as Rumi was carefully brought to the infirmary.

Marlee was allowed to heal naturally, under supervision of course. She gave Lana a shamed look as they talked. "I can't... fully explain it. She had a charismatic power. She... did horrible things to both Rumi and I and yet... we continued to follow her. She was treating me like a dog one minute, hugging me and telling me how proud she was the next."

She shook her head. "We knew it would likely end in Alice's defeat. I guess Rumi and I just resigned ourselves to the idea that we would die with her, playing the role of the bad guys. When that didn't happen..." She closed her eyes. "That man is right. If I had listened to Kva... she might be alive. I am... so sorry. I can never make up what I have done. But please let Rumi off easy. She was under Alice's control the longest. She was sucked in and couldn't get out."

"If she's anything... She's a good manipulator..." Lana shook her head. "I shouldn't have put you down here... Even with the extra watch... Why didn't I think something would go wrong? If she had died filled with their..."

"Don't... blame yourself..." Rumi slowly opened her eyes and stared up. "This is the least I could have recieved for what I did. B... b-but..." She closed her eyes again, tears rolling down her cheeks. "Thank you for saving me. I can't... die yet. Not until I at least try and make up for what I've done."

Lana just reached forward and carefully hugged the Human Woman. "Shut up..."

Rumi smiled softly, cheerishing the sign of affection.

"So... what happens to us now?" Marlee asked.

"You'll be staying in the Grand Hall with me... Or... I suppose the Royal Palace, once we refurbish it... " Lana sighed, "It's up to you whether you want to try and join the Seven again... but I think you two could use some time... Maybe... Even as some kind of Family? I'm sure Gravel wouldn't mind."

They smiled, and nodded. "Thank you," Rumi said wholeheartedly. "We will cherish this second chance."

Marlee rubbed her chin. "Speaking of second chances, what will be done with Ergo? He actually tried to rebel against Alice, and not only died for it, but was brought back as a mad man's experiment, only joining Alice to ensure the Light Elves were kept safe. Surely he deserves a second chance as well."

"That Light Elf right? If you really trust him. But are you sure he even wants one?" The Queen asked.

Marlee frowned. "I... I'm not sure to be honest. He was always so hard to read. I'm not sure what he wants. I guess... you can make him an offer. You're quite the persuasive one too."

"Very well. You should come with me. If you're well enough to move, that Is..." The Crimson Haired Woman offered her a hand.

Marlee nodded, slowly standing up and taking her hand.

She then offered her other hand to Rumi. "It's okay if you want to rest... No one will judge you and Jacque would be happy to keep you company..."

Rumi shook her head. "If it is all the same to you..." She pushed herself to stand up. "I'd rather get out of here as soon as I can. I can get better at the palace... and resume my training under your husband."

"Alright... I'd... After we speak to Ergo, the two of us will take you the the palace..." Lana'thel explained. "I don't want to let you walk there alone..."

Rumi chuckled nervously. "That sounds like a good idea."

Down at the other end of the prison, Ergo sat alone in the outdoor excersice yard. Several other prisoners gave him odd looks, he being the only Light Elf inthe emtire prison. This would normally make him a target, but the miserable, irritable look on his face kept others away. Thos was good for him, as his recently reatached arms were still stiff and numb, and he would have had to fight with his feet if it came to that. He stared down at his hands, slowly opening and closing them.

Carefully walking into the yard with her two charges, word had likely already spread around the prison what had happened, and that the Blood Queen was not to be trifled with, and that these two were in her care. Still, she kept a close eye on them as she approached, "Ergo. Right?"

"Who wants to know?" He slowly looked up, then between Rumi and Marlee. "Ah... forgive me. Yes, my name is Ergo. Ergo, the Freak Vampire, the corrupted Light Elf, at your service."

"From what I understand, it was hardly your choice. Yet it seems Alice's manipulations know no bounds." Lana looked at the oddity. "I was also informed you knew my daughter..."

"Yes... she gave me some very good advice..." He shook his head. "But I squandered it. I had a chance to save some of more people... a lot of my people. But my pride and arrogance made me try for all of them. I saw a guppy and a catfish, and decided to take on the shark. No wonder the shark won. She was a shark... cold and souless..."

"I'm sorry. For what it's worth, I understand wanting to save everyone." Lana related to him.

He tilted his head. "Why... are you apologizing to me. Your daughter tried to save me, and I betrayed her trust. I'm the one who should be apologizing..."

"I'm sorry for what happened to your people. What I don't understand is why you continued to help her even after she turned you into this... After she killed you?" Lana questioned.

"I realized I couldn't beat her," Ergo admitted. "So I stayed with her in the hopes that my loyalty would deliver my people to safety. And despite everything, she did evacuate them. So I have no regrets. I'm ready."

"Are you sure? We did find... Bodies... In the lower levels of the castle, some looked to be experiments, others looked to have been drained of blood..." Lana told him.

"What?!" Ergo sprang to his feet. "Bodies? Of... Light Elves? I was told I was the only one experimented on, and only because I was already dead!"

"She was clearly lying. Not to mention the reason why Havenbrook was even involved was that apparently Alice killed this young Mother's Husband and conscripted their son." Lana regretfully told him.

"Damn it..." Ergo sat back down with a huff and placed his hands over his face. "I was a fool to the end. Just... please. Can we get this over with? I would rather just end it now then have to wait..."

"What would you rather do, now that everything is said and done? We have a place for you here." The Queen asked him.

He slowly looked up, confused. "You are not here to see to my execution?"

"They vouched for you." Lana looked to the side at Rumi and Marlee.

The girls nodded. Ergo once again stood up. "I can not go back to the Light Elves out there. I do not feel like I am one of them anymore. But... you spoke of options?"

"That depends... How good are you in a fight like this?" Lana'thel asked him simply.

Ergo smiled. "I need to recover a bit more, but I stood toe to toe with Alice for a while, so I would say pretty good."

"Well. Unfortunately... There is currently an opening within the Seven... One that needs to be filled..." Lana suggested, tilting her head to the side. "What do you think you two?"

They both nodded. "It would be an honor to fight with you on the right side,"Marlee stated with a wink.

Ergo cleared his throat. "Very well. I accept." He bowed deeply. "May I be of better service to you then I ever was to Alice. Thank you for this opportunity."

"Together, we'll make sure nothing like Alice ever happens again, but before you go out, were going to make sure you're skill is really up to snuff." Lana nodded, holding out her hand. "That means lots of training."

Ergo took her hand and shook it. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

"Then Welcome Ergo. To the Seven." Lana gave him a light bow.

 

[Dahlexpert]

The fallowing is done by Dhalexpert&ZombieSplitter53

We must change for our people

The Duchy of Kemar

The Norscans travel through the deserts of Kemar carrying there loot and plunder through the unforgiving deserts heat, the Norscan prisoners started to faint from the heat but Lorica would give them some water in small gaps." Wulfric I know we just raided a small city here, but we should probable make camp before it gets dark."

Wulfric stopped and looked at his men and ordered them to make camp, the man quickly setup tents to block out the sand and quickly started to pass out food and water.

One of the men ran up to Lorica as the sun was setting. "We're being watched," she said. "Guards spotted at least two scouts. Their sneaky. If not for those charms we set on the parameter, we might have never seen them. What do we do?"


Lorica looked north." Wulfric i'm going hunting, see what the hell is hunting us. I'll be back shortly."

"Be quick about it we don't need the city guards coming after us, but be careful I don't want to bury another friend."

Lorica nodded her head, and grabbed her skull helmet and quickly made her way to the scouts. Just as she was told there were two of them, Lorica used the sand as cover and pulled out her spear and she slowly snuck up on the scouts.

They were a pair of Ophidians. Their grabs said they weren't part of any official army. Likely bandits or raiders. They whispered in their own language, and one turned to leave.


Lorica saw the one trail off, and slowly made her way to the one Ophidians and brought it to the ground." Quick question you see this thing on my wrist?" Lorica clenched her fist and two claws came out of the gallant." Best start talking, who are you with?"


"Death Lotus," the man answered. "The baddest, deadliest raiders in the country. Kill me, and they'll descend on your little camp and slaughter you."

Lorica chuckled." Do you know who you’re talking to, Lorica knight heart. One of the generals of the great army called Norsca, your nothing but a speck to me. However you might be useful."


"If you're going to try and enslave me, you might as well kill me now."


"Kill you humm as fun as that sound and i'm sure my beasts will love the meat, I think you will be use full." Lorica got off the man and stood up." Stand up we could use some more soldiers."


"Ha!" The man stood up. "Even if I wanted to work for you, Black Mamba would hunt me down and kill me for betraying her. You obviously don't know how Ophidian Raiders work."


"Do I care, ou wait you have no idea what band of raiders I’m talking about do you." OK let me put it in a way your little reptile brain can figure it out." Lorica got in Death Lotus face." My people took the country of Helvan, raided the country of Bevland & Themosa and it took the combined efforts of Mriandia, Bevlan, Themosa and the blasted vampires to beat us. And they barley won that fight. You would be boss shouldn't scare you." Lorica Thorpe side started to come out as her face and body slowly started to become more animal like. "I should."


The Ophidian swallowed. "Yeah? Well, Ophidians make the best assassins in the world. Like I said, I join you, I'm dead." He narrowed his eyes. "And if you're so much tougher then her, why not try and tell her that to her face?"


Lorica slowly went back to normal." Before I go to you would be leader." Lorica pushed the Ophidian. "I'm taking you to my camp tell my friend about some possible new recruits to rebuild our ranks." Lorica took the Ophidan to the Norscan camp and to Wulfric. "You look what I found, looks like this scout was planning to raid us." Lorica kicked the Ophidian to the ground.

Wulfric slowly walked to the lizard man." You dare think you can raid our camp, tell me why I shouldn't skin you alive and wear your skin as my new shoulder plate?"


"Pft. And they call us barbarians." The Ophidian looked up. "You are in our territory. It is our normal procedure to scout anyone who comes in. Given the size and strength of it, my partner went back to tell them to leave you be. We don't have time for a feud with some random group of idiots with the shape our country is in now." He shrugged. "Of course, kill me and they'll wipe you out."


Wulfric slowly walked to the Ophidian and put his hand around it's shoulder and took a deep breath." Right well than why don't you take us to this leader of yours, we might have a offer for her and your people something that will benefit you all."


The man raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Very well. If your leader wishes it, I could bring a small group of you to meet her." He looked at Lorica. "She respects female leaders above all else though."


"We both lead this army, as equals we used to have ruler but she gave up her life for us. No matter we both will come along with some tribute to show your people how they could live." After several minutes the two leaders grabbed there tribute and fallowed The Ophidian to there camp. many Ophidian lived in what seemed to be a oases with plenty of water, but little food. They made there way to a large tent and waited for this so called leader they heard about."


After a few minutes, as though they were purposely being kept to wait, she entered. The woman referred to as Black Mamba was a mutant, twice the size as the average Ophidian with a serpent lower half, and six arms. As expected, she spoke to Lorica first. "Where are your guards?" she asked in a deep voice. "Surely, you did not come with a single man."


Wulfric walked to the serpent." Hum I'm pretty sure I can use your hide to make several baskets for our people."

"Wulfric remember what Alice taught us, we must handle this with respect." I'm Lorica and this my honest friend is Wulfric we both lead the army Norsca. And we come to make a deal with you, I also ask that you treat him with respect because when it comes to who's the most savage between us it's defiantly me."


The snake woman laughed. "Is that so? An interesting claim." She lounged against a specially made chair. "Well, I am Marilith. My people call me Black Mamba, because once I decide to sink my teeth in you, you're already dead."


Lorica stepped forward. "Alright Marilith like I said me and my friend are a part of a once great army of man and monsters called Norsca we put fear in the west of Terra but with combined effort of Bevlan, Themosa, Mirandia, and the vampires to destroy our army and our great leader."

Wulfric steeped forward." We want you and your people to join us and relish in our return to glory, we can offer you more wealth food and water then you can ever dream of."


"You want us... to join you?" The snake woman leaned forward, not looking very amused. "I lead one of the strongest group of Raiders this country has ever seen... and you want me to serve under you? I have a question; can you give me one good reason I shouldn't kill you right now?"


Wulfric whistled and out came many people from there camps holding cheats carts of food and barrels. Wulfric kicks one of the cheats reveling tons of gold silver and copper coins.” This is a small tribute if you join us.”


Marilith's eyes lit up. "Oh... ahem..." She took several deep breaths. "And... let's just say I were to join you. Where would I stand in this little... group of yours?"


"We need leaders, you can represent your people as well as join us in planing assaults." Lorica said. Please we mean you no harm I know we didn't come off as proper , but were looking for our own home and for any raider being upstarts or veterans to join us in glorious conquering. So than will you join us?"

 

[Dahlexpert]

Part 2

"Hmm..." The Snake woman leaned forward. "Our country is warring between those that side with Yig, Old God of Serpents, and those who do not. Which side do you sit on. Your answer will determine if I join you... or slay you."


"We don't care for politic we want you on our side, if you join us we will crush your enemies for you and server there rotten bodes to our beast." Wulfric said bluntly.

"However we can't deny that our people have been blessed by the gods, and that they watch over us. And I mean the gods that are worshiped all over Terra, what about you do you serve this old serpent or whatever this thing is?" Lorica said.


"Tch..." Meridith leaned back. "We do not. Our clan once worshiped the mate of Yig, but she was sealed away but YIg long ago. Since then, we have had no one to follow. But we crush all who fly under the false Snake King's flag. If we joined you... you would be expected to do the same."


"Your free to worship whoever you want with us, if you want us to kill false idles were fine with that just as long as we get to pillage there lands." Lorica said.

"No matter what if you do join us you will be leaving this land, as we raid all across Terra. Is that something you can do?" Wulfric asked.

"Leaving... hmm..." Meridith stood up. She was quite tall and imposing when at her full height. "Perhaps... a test is in order."


"What kind of test, do you want to test our strength?" Wulfric questioned.

Lorica put her hand on her staff." Because if you plan on fighting us, you would see that were not like the whelps your people have been fighting."


"I do not test the strength of my comrades when I doubt they could win. No... this will be a test of loyalty." She knelt forward. "I want you to retrieve something of mine. Something that was stolen from me by a rival faction. I would have already destroyed those that dare cross me, but I know if they see a single Ophidian approaching their camp, they'll destroy it. They have told me as much. But if, say, and human or a Thrope approached, they would be none the wiser."


"Sounds like fun, a good raid do you want us to bring anyone back for you to do whatever you want with them." Wulfric asked.

"But more importantly what are you asking us to look for a jewel of some sort?" Lorica asked.


"A jewel of sorts. For me and my men at least. You'll know it when you find it." She smiled at Wulfric, liking his fire. "I will leave what you do to any survivors up to you. We could always use a new slave or two."

"This shouldn't take long, we’ll be back by morning. Come Lorica we best come up with a plan." Wulfric looked at Marilith." Keep our gifts out of respect and as you being our new soon to be friend."

Lorica looked at Marilith." Where is there camp it will make thing easier if we knew where they were?"


Marilith pointed to the North West. "A few miles that way. We thank you for the gifts. Return with my jewel, and you will have the treasure of my people as your allies."


"We won't be long." Wulfric and Lorica made their way back to their camp and explained to their men that in order to get a new allies they need to raid a camp up east of them, they need to find a jewel for their new allies. The Norscans quickly made their way to the camp that they were told about. And quickly made their way into camp, there army ravaging through the Ophians like they were nothing killing all those in their wake."


When they came to the tent of the Raider's captain, he stood behind four armed men, holding a sword himself. He was a big Ophidian, and yet seemed about ready to wet himself. "What do you want?! Who are you?!"


"Were Norscan raiders, we came to pillage your lands because were bored." Lorica said.

"Although that gem behind you looks very promising, I think it will catch me a very hefty price. We'll be taking that from you." Wulfric said as he and Lorica slowly walked to the man.


He stepped out of the way, all five Ophidians backing away. "Take whatever you want, jist leave us be!"

As Wulfric reached for the glittering blue girl, a young hand reached out and snatched it. "No! That's my mother's!"

Wulfric looked at the young snake girl, and then looked at Lorica." Round up the other civilians, and hold them in the middle of town. I will handle these two." Lorica nodded her head and went to give orders to her men to stop killing.

Wulfric keeled down and looked at the child." What do you mean it belongs to your mother this doesn't belong to you."


When most people of different races had a child, said child almost always took the race of a single parent. On a very rare occasion, however, they might produce a crossbred child who took on the traits of both races.

This was the only way to explain the girl's odd appearance. The scaley skin around her neck, blood red snake eyes, and forked tongue were certainly that of an Ophidian, but she was the most pale desert dwelling Ophidian one had ever seen, her skin and hair nearly white as snow. Perhaps her father was a pale human or Thrope, or Light Elf, hailing from Stormrend. It would explain her kimono, so much dressing far from the usual desert garb.

"My mother said I could only hold on to it," she explained, the cutest squeak in her voice. "But she wanted it back. These men took me before I could give it back though."


Wulfric looked at the man, then back at the child." Well your in luck kid possibly, I think your mother was the one that sent us to get this gem. Is your mother a giant reptilian woman with four arms and a giant snake tail?"


The girl nodded. "That's her. She'll be happy to have it back."

"Take the gem but leave the girl!" the Ophidian captain pleaded. "You don't know what it is like to live in the shadow of the Black Lotus Raiders. The girl is the only leverage we have!"


"Then I suggest you start running, because I’m taking this child back to their mother as well." Wulfric put the girl behind him." I'm gonna say this once I’m from Norsca we are not your typical raiders, we live for war. But I can bargain perhaps you and this girl’s mother can come up with a deal, or I can kill you and bring your people to her."

"No, please!" The man brought his hands together. "Take her. We'll deal, we'll deal. Just... just stop killing my men, please."


"By now my people have already done that, we only killed your guards anyway your woman and children should be alright. Say for the few men that surrendered." Wulfric looked down at the child." Were gonna take you home to your mom alright little one."


"H-hold on..." Hse rushed over to a trunk, looting through it until she found a thick, black parasol, one that would block the sun. "I'm ready."


“Ou we gotta little raider on my hands.” Wulfric walked out with the tribe leader, most of his people were captured by the Norscan raiders.”

Lorica made her way to Wulfric.” Whelp we got our prisoners best that we get a move on.”

As the sun started to rise they returned to black momba camp with their package.


She met with them a lot quicker then she did last time. "Do you have it? My precious little jewel?"


Wulfric nods his head and from behind him was a pale snake child.” I do believe that this the jewel that you speak of.”


Marilith frowned. "Oh... Angelica. Right, forgot you were taken. Now where is my actual jewel?"


Wulfric eyes twitched, but he pulled out the child like jewel that Marilith was possible looking for.


She let out an ecstatic cry, snatching it up and placing it in the center of her necklace. "Mommy missed you, darling! Did you miss mommy?" She smiled at Wulfric. "Well done! You have earned my trust."


“That’s Good to know, we also brought you something else as well.” Lorica came into the tent with the Ophidian leader.” He wanted to talk to you and make a deal.”


"We, uh... would be glad to serve you, my lady," he said with a nervous smile.

"Hmm... you did steal my jewel..."

"You jewel?" The man scratched his head. "You're not upset about your d..."

"What say you, new allies," Marilith interrupted. "Except him and his people... or feed them to the animals?"


“We can take them in, after all we do need workers. And people that can hold their own in a battle as well as make weapons, food and so on.”

"Very well." Marilith bowed her head. "It is a pleasure to join you."

"Oh, good." Angelika clapped her hands together. "Mother looks so happy."


“That’s great to hear we’re glad to have you join us, I’m sure we could use this land and its resources to the fullest.”

The Norscans were celebrating with their new Ophidian allies, the Ophidians drank grog with the Norscans and enjoying food that they never tried before, some even getting war pain on there scales. "Looks like your people are getting along with us well." Lorica pointed out to Marilith.

"Well, no one knows how to celebrate after the enemy has been crushed like an Ophidian. Just keep an eye on the new ones. They might target you, figure slaying you is a good way to become leader." Marilith looked over to the pale girl sipping on some Kemarian black tea and giggling at the antics of the raiders. "Some you met my embarrassment of a daughter. I hope it doesn't make you think less of me."

Lorica raised her eye brow, she than whistled and some boy wearing some tribal guards came to Lorica." You called mom?"

Lorica looked at Marilith."Marilith this is my child that I adopted during one of the raides, he's weak for now but he's a very good hunter and may be a good solder one day. Why not try and I don't know being a mother to your child, Or at least teach her how to defend herself."

Marilith's shoulders sank. "But she's so... frail. She is timid and weak, and suffers from photophobia. Can you imagine that? A desert dwelling Ophidian who burns up in the sun like a vampire. I just... don't know if I have the patience you obviously have."

 

[Dahlexpert]

Part 3

Patience i'm not patience I show him what to do and how to do it, and he does it. If he fails then he will get back up and do it again, I don't coddle him we have others that he trains with. Just give it a shot, were a tribe we work together kids are no different. Show her the basic on how to defend herself."


Marilith nodded. "Alright... I'll try." She took a swig from a large goblet. "Anyway, where are we going? You mentioned leaving the Duchy."


"We have some friend that are still in Halven as prisoners, were getting them back. Were also going to Themosa to free a few thousand slaves from the mines, but were gonna need some help with that I just hope our old friends will help us."


"Old friends, huh?" Marilith leaned down. "You have connections?"


Lorica stooped drinking her grog." Well let's just say there a very interesting bunch." Lorica stood on the table. "Hay Grimora Aratenda, Seclevar. You three mind coming down here for a minute?" Lorica shouted to the heavens.


Marilith laughed. "What, the gods? You have got to be..."

"Aratenda isn't coming anymore." Seclavar picked up a mug and chugged it down. "She got what she wanted. Kind of used Alice in that sense. She's now focused on the civil wars here and in Themosa."


“Well isn’t that just typical of the gods.” Wulfric walked to Seclavar and put his hand on his shoulder.” I’m also sorry about Alice, I know you two were very close with each other.”


"Yeah." The god balled his fist. "She helped me break free from my mother's grasp and... actually like myself for myself. She made me feel wanted. And now... either she'll end up a ghost I can't touch, or reincarnated into someone who won't know me. I... I should have saved her. Damn it all..."


“We all miss her, she gave purpose to all of us. How’s Grimora handling things?”


"Okay. She is having a hard time but she'll be okay. She is trying to get Alice reincarnated."


"Well at least our boss will have a second chance of life, that's what counts I guess." Wulfric took a deep breath at the fact that Alice is possibly moved on." Hay Seclavar think we can get some other gods to well help us out, this land has plenty of hardships think any gods need our." Wulfric chuckled." Our brutal nature to help them out."


"Not as many are as thrilled about your violent nature as Grimora or Tecunte. Hmm... What about the goddess of Destruction? She's one of the originals, you know?"


The goddess of destruction huh.” Wulfric rubbed his chin.” Well we do destroy plenty in our wake I’m sure she would love to have a group of raiders fighting under her.”

“What about the god of hunt.” Lorica said.” We hunt and tame plenty of monsters, I’m sure he can lead us much bigger pray that we can offer him.”


Seclavar shrugged. "Worth a try I suppose. You'll want to message the messenger goddess, Runseca. She'll deliver any invitations you want to give."


“Any idea on how we get her down here, do we just call her name?” Wulfric asked.


"I-I know how!" Angelika stepped over, though stayed a few feet away in case she was told to leave. She held a large book against her cchest. "I... know a lot of things about the Terrian gods."

Marilith rolled her eyes. "Yes, my... precious daughter spends most of her time reading rather then training." Between clenched teeth, she added, "Isn't... that... nice?"


“That’s actually very useful, Hell most of the slaves that we freed can’t read. On top of that you know things that others don’t.” Wulfric walked Angelika and patted her head.” Thanks kid now how do we bring this message god?”


The snake girl walked over to the sand and started to draw an intricate glyph in it. She glanced at her mother, then asked, "You're one of the leaders, right Mr. Wulfric?"


“One of three, Lorica is a leader as well little one. And our third who I would say is our real leader.” Wulfric turned to the largest tent in the camp.” He’s become ill and were trying to help him best we can.”


"I'm sorry to here that." She looked back. "Would either he or you like for me to bear you a child?"


Both Wulfric and Lorica eyes widened, they then looked at Marilith.” Please tell me this is a culture thing?” Lorica asked.


"Hmm?" Marilith raised an eyebrow and nodded. "It is. As the head of a large, powerful group of Raiders, she would be smart to bare the leader a son. Granted, she is a bit young for it. You can refuse if you wish. Neither I nor she will take offense."


Wulfric patted the snake girls head." You’re too young child, but if you’re older and if we live long enough for you to be of age we will see." Wulfric than looked at Marilith." Your mother on the other hand, I will have no problem giving her my child."

Lorica looked at Marilith." I be careful around Wulfric, he is will how do I put this. He does have plenty of stamina."


Maralith grinned. "I might take him up on that offer."

Angelika finished her drawings and stepped back. "I shall begin." She started mittering a chant in an unknown language. After a minute, the glyph glowed a bright yellow. It shot up into the sky and flew past the horizon. The gurl fell to her knees and wiped her forehead. "Sorry. I've never done that before. But I think it worked."


The entire camp looked up at were the bright light was, Wulfric patted Angelika head. "Thanks kid now hopefully we just wait and hopefully the messenger god comes. If not." Ready up boys!" The camp of raiders pulled out there weapons, and there archers readyed there bows in case something else comes.


"Whoa, everyone on high alert." Runseca was already standing behind Wulfric and Lorica. "Such a welcoming party for little ol' me?"


"Lower your weapons boys." The raiders lowered their weapons and just looked at the goddess." Wulfric looked at Runseca." It's a pleasure to meet you mad'am can you relay a message to the goddess of destruction, and." Wulfric rubbed his head." And the goddess of harvest, Also the god of hunt?"

"Hmm... tall order. Two of the big ones too." Runseca folded her arms. "You have some kind of offering to me? I've been hounded by the others by saying I'm too charitable. Something hard to find?"


"That depends what type of offer you are looking for." Wulfric asked. You name use something that you want and we will give it to you."


"Hmm..." Runseca rubbed her chin. "How about something sweet? Like, really tasty. Oh, or some old coins! I collect rare coins."


"Humm interesting request, come along." Wulfric took the goddess to their treasure." Here is all the treasure that we plundered I’m sure that some were in here is some old coins after all i'm sure most of this money hasn't been spent it who knows how many years or decades."


"Well, I... shouldn't take stolen treasure," she muttered even as she was searching through the treasure. Fifteen minutes later, she had a stack of fifteen coins, most of which with little value to anyone but a collector. "How many can I have?"

"As much as you want, we have piles of the stuff. And more than likely more in the future, so go ahead take as much as you want we don't mind. Just as long as you bring the gods that I asked to talk to you can take as much as you want."

Runseca let out a soft squeal, and put them in a satchel on her hip. "Okay. Who do you want first?"

"Let's get the goddess of destruction first, she'll probable be the easiest on to convince. I mean we are going around and burning every city in our way."

"Yeah, about that... stay away from Serasam. No revenge on the Havenbrook manor or I won't help you. Also, the Regalis family in... Well, anywhere. Leave them alone. Promise me that, and I'll grt all three gods for you."

"Fine well leave your kings and queens alone, well just burn everything around them as the watch. As for HaveBrook, i'm not making any promises. If they attack us and take our home again we will kill them and burn there home to the ground. So a long as they leave us be you have a deal."


Runseca nodded. "Fair enough." She ran off, leaving a brief after image and a cloud of dust.

An hour passed with no word. Suddenly, the moon light seemed to dim, darkness enveloping the camp. A sinister face appeared in the sky, eyes burning red. "Who dares call upon the destroyer...?"

Lorica along with everyone looked up, Lorica than spoke up." A tribe of people that enjoy destruction, if you don't believe us looked at our record. Helvan, Bevland, Themosa, Hell every doc we raided and the towns we burned. Does any of this please you?"

"Hmm..." The darkness disappeared, and for a moment, there was silence. It almost seemed like she had left until a young woman with black wings and jet black hair appeared before Lorica. "It does... buuuuut... I'm hungry!"


"Boys let's feed this goddess." After a few minutes. the Norscans brought beef, fish, and chicken to the large table." Lorica put her elbow on the table. “Please dig in we have plenty of food and plan on uniting again soon."