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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Jul 30, 2007 18:42:13 GMT -5
Ceril covered his face until the storm of dust past. Sand raced past and in his cloths. The wind nearly picked him up off the ground and sand stung his exsposed skin.
When the sand stopped he looked up. Teya was laying on the ground, the dragon was gone adn the others were picking themselves up off the sand.
Ceril stood up and let the sand fall off of him. He looked around, Gwelx walked towards Teya, but didn't seem concerned about her, he stopped a few feet from her and looked down at the sand.
Ceril couldn't see what it was he was looking at, but he seemed surprised. Gwelx motioned for him to come over, Ceril raced over and stopped suddenly. A vast ditch in the sand spread out before him. The whole was as big as the dragon had been and deep enough for the bottom to be invisible.
"Wow!" said Ceril, "What made that!?"
Gwelx raised his eye brows, "Teya of course."
Ceril looked at the girl laying on the ground. Her face looked pale; Forn and Gra'el who was back in human form, knelt next to her.
"Gwelx, come over here, she is in need of healing. She is fading away, she unleashed herself on that monster," said Forn.
Gwelx hurried over and knelt down beside them, "Ceril, we need you as well, come," said the old man.
Ceril went over and all four knelt together, suddenly Ceril realized what Forn meant-Teya was dying.
Gwelx gave him a hand, the boy watched as the other grabbed hands and made a circle around the young Oracle. Gwelx began to sing, sing a song of old. The meaning of its words are lost, but their power was not. Ceril joined in along with Forn and Gra'el. He sang the ancient words, and felt as if he had known them all his life, yet he had never heard them before.
Teya's body lifted into the air, and just as it reached their heads, it burst into a briliant light. Then lowered back to the ground. Ceril let go of Gwelx and Gra'el, he gaze at Teya, she lay, breathing normally, her face held a smile, and she was sleeping. Ceril sighed and fell into the sand, "I think i'll join her in an afternoon nap."
Gra'el laughed, "I agree."
Ceril closed his eyes and let the world fade away, forgetting everything.
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Post by Christian Soldier on Jul 31, 2007 2:07:54 GMT -5
Teya stretched and yawned. The sun was just starting to go down and she felt restless. For a moment she just sat there. 'Dusk? What happened to the rest of the day?' The day's events flooded into her mind and she remembered. Ah, how she remembered the fear and certainty that crowded in on her all in a moment. She also clearly remembered pushing her new found abilities far, far beyond the brink. She should be dead.
Her heart skipped a beat and she jerked upright. 'I should be dead!' She took several minutes to calm down and looked about her. They were still in the clearing, more or less. Ceril slept up against a tree to her left. Gwelx was sprawled to her right. Forn laid with is hands behind his head in front of her. She twisted around and saw Gra'el curled into a ball behind her.
She looked again. He had two hideous heads, one with one eye and one with two. His left arm had scales and a single massive claw. His right arm was normal. One of his legs was replaced with a tentacle and the other looked like it belonged on a lion. He also had a tail that stretched behind him. 'What in the world...'
Gra'el reached down and scratched his tentacle with his left claw. His right head was awake, but the left was out cold. Finally, both heads difted back off. Dreams coalesced from events of the past week. The pain of losing Gwelx only to get him back and being reminded of his true love's demise. Ah how he missed her. Someone shook him.
She had been from the desert, like Teya. Fiery of spirit, mind, body, and soul she had been a perfect match for him. Someone shook him again. Yet, her death had been the catalyst that ' stopped the Oracles bickering and forced them to move. His left head yawned. 'Wait...'
He opened his eyes and puzzled over the triple view. When he took stock in the rest of himself, he jumped. "Frag!" He tried to sit up, but his left...err...tentacle wouldn't support his weight and he crashed down on his side. Someone was giggling. He sniffed: Teya.
"It's not funny, Teya."
She cocked her head to one side. "Oh really? If only you could see yourself now."
"Yeah well..." He reached into his depleted reserves and shifted back to normal. "You try waking up like that and see if you like it."
"What happened?"
He struggled to his feet and met her gaze. "I was too depleted, and instead of shifting back into my actual form, I just stayed as I was. I can't shift from my natural form when I'm alseep. Plus, I recover quicker."
She consider that for a moment. "I guess that makes sense. What happened," she gestured around her, "earlier?"
He grinned as he gripped her arm and led her to the pit that used to be a Bone Dragon. She gazed into the near bottomless depth for several minutes. Gra'el could only guess what went through her mind.
She said, "I remember over exerting myself, but I don't remember ... this. How I am still alive?"
Gra'el smiled. "We all gave some of ourselves to you."
"That's why everyone is asleep but us?"
"You got it." Gra'el's stomach growled, loud. "Ooo, yeah I'm hungry. Wanna catch some grub? Or maybe a dear...or even better, and buffalo."
She made a funny face. "Why do you eat so much?"
"Because, my dear, I am still a dragon, regardless of what shape I wear. Come on, let's go." Gra'el released his shape and felt his reserves dwendle further. For a brief second, he stretched his wings and cramped tail. Kneeling down, he accepted Teya onto his back. His head snaked around to look her in the eyes. "Did you know that you are the second Human to ride a dragon in over a hundred years?"
"Wow" Any other reply wa cut off by his leap into the air.
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Aug 3, 2007 7:39:10 GMT -5
Gwelx sat watching Gra'el stur the soup for everyone. Gra'el had already eaten and had caught several animals too small to be a meal for himself, so he brought them back for them to eat.
Forn and Ceril sat looking at a map to his right, and Teya paced. Gwelx knew what she was thinking. It bothered him as well.
"Forn, what are you thinking we do next?" asked Gwelx.
Forn didn't answer, he kept on looking at the map. Ceril nudged the man, "Forn, Gwelx asked you what we shoud do next."
Forn looked at Gwelx, "Sorry, i am worried that we might be trapped up here in the desert."
Gwelx nodded knowingly, "Yes, but if we stay here, we are as good as dead."
Teya looked at Gwelx, "Why do you two say such things? Why are we in danger here in the wild of the desert?"
Gwelx looked at Gra'el, then Forn and nodded, "Tell her."
Forn stood up, "Well my dear, it seems that our enemy has located us, and is...coming. He knows that the clans of the north will never join him, and that we have found the lost Oracles."
Teya trembled, "You mean, everyone who lives up here is in danger?"
Forn nodded, "Yes my dear, we must trust that Adonia will protect us."
Gra'el stopped sturring, "Teya, do you remember the dark patch in the sand that we saw?" Teya nodded and Gra'el continued, "That was enemy."
Ceril looked up from the map, "Um, my i suggest something?" Forn smiled and nodd. "Well," said Ceril, "Shouldn't we warn the clans and have them unite agains this threat? Then go to this place that you three have talked about and get whatever it is that we need?"
Teya shook her head, "The clans are stubborn, i doubt they would agree to fight along side each other. I know it would be hard for my father to except such a proposal. They would rather die defend themselves than live and be forever endebted to each other."
Gwelx looked at the two young Oracles, "I agree with both of you. I agree Teya that they would much rather die proud foolish warriors, than live humble nations. But i do not think that we can abandon them either. What would Adonia do? I believe he would fight to save them."
Gra'el grinned, "So are we off to another battle?"
Gwelx glared at his friend, "Forn? Do you agree?"
The Oracle stood thinking, "Yes, i do, but we must be cautious, we don't want to become the clans enemy either."
Ceril stood up, "Off on another adventure, first i fight a ghost thing, then run through the desert to be plucked by a dragon. Then-"
"Oh, stop it," inturrepted Teya, "You can complain next adventure."
Gwelx smiled, "Welcome to an Oracles life."
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Post by Christian Soldier on Aug 3, 2007 9:47:58 GMT -5
In the early dawn light, five Oracles packed their gear and prepared for war. Ceril practiced with is sword. Teya readied additional arrows for her quiver. Forn and Gwelx talked quietly away from the others. Gra'el simply prayed.
The sun climbed into the sky and Forn approached his draconic colleague. "Gra'el, we think it's time."
Gra'el's eyes snapped open. "Have you heard from the Master?"
"No, but it all lines up. That..."Forn turned to take in Ceril's manic swinging with his gaze," and I don't think we'll survive this without some help."
Gra'el's chuckle reverberated through his check. "I can see how that might be a problem. You do realize what you're asking though don't you?"
Forn sighed. "Yes. Yes I do. I also remember the safe gaurds we installed when we closed the vault, but, Gra'el, I simply don't see another choice."
Gra'el watched as Gwelx appraoched Teya. She nodded and he moved on to Ceril. "We'll be condeming him to death if he's not ready, but you're right, we have no choice."
"One other thing..."
"You want a ride." Gra'el smiled. "I'll give it, but you're not going to like it."
Teya backed up. "No! Riding on his back is one thing, but clutched in his hands?"
"Teya, he hasn't dropped anybody, yet..." Gwelx said.
"No, he can make two trips." She jumped as she backed into a tree.
"Teya, please..."
"NO! And that's final."
Gwelx sighed. "I was afraid you'd be that way."
Teya's eyes widened as she heard the sound of Gra'el taking off. Gwelx stepped to the side and gave her a view of the massive dragon flying straight at her. Gwelx put a hand on her shoulder.
Teya bumped into the tree again.
With one final thrust, Gra'el snatched Gwelx and Teya and pulled them close to his body as he soared straigh up. Teya started screaming. Forn and Ceril held on t Gra'el's back for dear life. Finally he leveled off and fly straight for a mountain range in the distance. Ceril turned and asked, "Is that our desination?"
Forn smiled. "Yes, that's where our treasures are kept. I only pray that we are doing the Master's will in this."
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Aug 8, 2007 21:09:17 GMT -5
Gwelx fell to the ground as Gra'el let go. Teya landed beside him and he heard the sound of Ceril and Forn's feet hitting the ground. He looked up, Ceril stood over him hold out a hand, the old man grabbed it and pulled himself up.
"Gra'el, i would have much perferred to be set down than to be dropped," said Gwelx brushing himself off.
Gra'el landed and rapidly turned into a human form and laughed, "Sorry Gwelx, i forget that you have fagile bones!"
Gwelx grumbled and walked towards the cave entrance. Teya and Ceril followed, both taking in the scene of the old abandon council table and rocky interior.
"Where is the door to the...things that were are trying to get?" asked Teya looking at Forn behind her.
Forn pointed to the far wall, "There."
She looked and gazed at it, the door was simple and looked as if someone could open it with an axe, "Thats it? I could knock it over with a kick!"
Gwelx turned around and scowled, "If you dare try such a thing...it would have been better for you to have not have even been born!"
Teya's eyes got wide and her voice trembled, "Ww-what do you mean?"
Gwelx pointed at two of the five chairs at the table, "Do you see these two chairs? One is now yours and one is Ceril's and do you know why?"
Teya shook her head, "Because," said Gwelx, "One of the Oracles before you decided he needed Adonia's sword. So, he went and hacked and chopped at the door until it splintered. Forn, Gra'el, and I ran out of the cave while the fourth Oracle went to stop the other. Then, just as the door was beaten to the ground, a flash of light and a loud voice rand out and said something no one understood. After that...we have never saw the other two Oracles again."
Teya's form sagged, "I'm sorry Gwelx, i didn't think the joke would be so...harmful if some really did it."
Gwelx lay a hand on her shoulder, "Yes i know, but remeber this, if you don't know what you are talking about, it is better to not say anything at all. A lot of confusion and pain can be avioded if some people would just keep their mouths shut."
Someone cleared their throat and Gwelx looke at Gra'el, "What?"
Gra'el nodded at the door, "Now that we have had our history, shall we open the door?"
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Post by Christian Soldier on Aug 8, 2007 22:01:44 GMT -5
Gra'el chuckled as Gwelx approached the door. He could tell that his old friend was feeling his age today. And why not considering the flight he just endured? Gra'el wished that he could have been gentler, but he could barely fly as was. Still, it was worth it.
The five Oracles of Adonai stood in a semi circle around the door. Gwelx approached the door and spoke in a quiet voice, "Guardian, servant of our Master, and keeper of the Gifts, Awaken."
The cave shook as though the mountain were shivering. A stalagmite fell near the entrance. A creature emerged from the rocky floor. It stood at seven feet tall and seemed to be chiseled into a vague resemblance to man. It's massive jaw worked with no sound before it erupted into an explosive yawn. At last, its gaze fell upon the five standing before it. "Three plus two awaken me. Three I know, two I don't. Three are Oracles, two are...different. Three are old, two are young." It leaned forward and seemed to sniff at Ceril. "Who is this one?"
Ceril fought to control the shakes that threatened to overcome him. The being seemed to find this amusing, but did not elaborate further nor asked any other questions. After a hard swallow, Ceril said, "I am Ceril, Oracle of Adonai."
"This one has no other titles to claim?"
"None that the Master has given me."
"That will change. Soon, too. This one is good. What is this other one?" It sniffed at Teya for several seconds. Before she could think of a reply, it said, "Hmm..this one has killed a risen one. Impressive. This one I tell plain: an Oracle is before me." It's gaze returned to Ceril. "This one has killed a soulless one. That is why the smell is different. Be wary, for the others will hunt you because of that smell alone." I straightened to its full height and bellowed, "What do ye seek?"
Forn stepped forward. "We seek the gifts of Adonai as promised in times of great need."
"This one's need must truly be great to awaken me," the Oracles stirred, "But, I still must know something of this foe this one flees."
"The Nameless one is free. Even now his horde expands using the forbidden arts. The old agreements have all been broken and combat ensues. Without these gifts, and the blessing of the Master, we'll never succeed."
"This one speaks well for its kind. I shall grant you the gifts of Adonai and the Power of the Master. He warned me of this day coming many years ago. When the time comes, I too shall fight by your side. Till then, I'll rest and brood. Call upon me when you are ready for the final battle." With that, it melted back into the rock from whence it came.
Silence help sway for several minutes before Teya broke it. "Well, I for one am curious." With her leading the way, the five Oracles entered the Cavern of the Gifts.
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Aug 9, 2007 9:21:04 GMT -5
Gwelx followed after Teya, hoping she wouldn't do anything foolish. He walked slowly, taking in the view. The stone floor looked black and the room was too dark to see. Gwelx drew his sword; he reached down into himself, the sword burst into flames. He passed Teya lighting up the room.
He looked around and saw a torch on the wall and went and lit it. He went around the room and lit several others, then joined the others in the middle of the empty chamber.
"Where are the gifts?" asked Teya looking around.
Gwelx looked at Forn, "Now we must open the inner chamber."
Forn nodded and pointed at the floor in the middle of the room, "Let us see if we are doing the Masters will."
They all walked towards the center of the room, Gwelx gazed at the carving in the floor. It had the imprints of five crowns and a circle around the imprints. Then out side of the circle more imprints could be seen, they were of a bow, sword, ring, armor, and a cloak.
"What do we do next?" asked Ceril.
Gwelx sighed, "We place our crowns in the imprints and...wait."
"But we don't have any crowns," said Ceril.
"I know," said Gwelx.
"But i do," said a voice behind them.
They all turned to see the Master, Gwelx bowed, "My Lord, i did not expect to see you here."
Adonia grinned, "I know. But i had to come, in order to give you the gifts. All you have to do is give me your crowns."
Ceril stood up, "But...Master, i don't have a crown."
"Ceril," said the Master, "You have plenty of crowns. I know, i have seen them. Just open up your heart, your inner chamber, and you will find your crowns."
Gwelx went up next to Ceril, "Master, i give you my crown. I give you my foolishness, my pride that you may fix it. I give you my life."
Gwelx knelt before Adonia and a crown appeared in the impression.
Forn and Gra'el came up along side of Gwelx, "I give you my soul, my inner being," said Forn.
"And i offer my services to you, Master Adonai," said Gra'el.
Ceril looked back at the impressions, three crowns sat in the impressions. Two more waited to be filled. Ceril glanced at Teya as she too went and bowed before Adonai.
"Master, i have nothing to give you. No gifts; my life has been yours from the beginning."
Adonai bend down next to the kneeling girl, "Teya, your life may have always been mine. But your heart, words, and deeds did not line up with the life I planned for you. Now desert Oracle... serve me with your all, not just your hidden heart. Be bold for me, let go of the pride of your people."
Ceril watched as another crown appeared in the circle, he went and knelt next to Teya, "Master, i...i am a rebel. Why did you choose an enemy to become an Oracle?"
Adonai smiled and lifted Ceril's chin so they were eye to eye, "Ceril, i chose a lost young man Not an enemy, I chose a prideful, hurt young man. I chose someone i could count on. I chose someone who needed to be shown love. I chose you so that you could show others my love."
"But Master, i am not worthy, i am foolish boy. i hate, i am angry, i am lost."
Adonai grabbed Ceril and held him in his arms, "Then find your home in me, Ceril. i will make you worthy, i will teach you wisdom, i will get rid of your hate, i will calm your anger, and i will always be there for you."
Adonai let go of Ceril, the boy looked at the Master's face; tears trickled down his cheeks. Adonai's eyes glistened, "Go, receive your gifts and use them with discernment."
Ceril looked behind him and saw a sword, a bow, a ring, a set of armor, and a cloak all in the impressions on the floor.
"Ceril, take your sword, this sword will give you skill in combat based on your heart and not talent."
Ceril went and picked up the blade, it fit perfectly in his hands. He grinned and swung it in an arch.
"Teya, take your bow arrows. This bow will seek out your target even if it is moving. With it you can never miss."
Teya grabbed her bow and pulled the string back, she liked it. She smiled at Adonai, "Thank you."
Adonai grinned and said, "Forn, your cloak, this cloak will give you the ability to persuasion. It allows your words to penetrate others thoughts and let them see what you see. It also helps you have discernment and clears your thoughts. It allows will help you become an even greater leader."
Forn held the cloak, itching to put it on, he looked at Adonai, "Thank you, my Master."
"Gra'el, for you is a set of armor that will shift and change as you change form. No matter what form you are in, you will always have armor on."
Gra'el snatched up the breast plate, "This will be very helpful! Thank you Adonai."
"And you Gwelx," said Adonai chuckling, "I give you this ring, it is the ring of healing. And since it is a ring of healing, who ever is wearing it will be given back some of their youth."
Gwelx grumbled, "Thank you Adonai. I'm not that old."
Gwelx went and put the ring on. Nothing happened, he looked the same. Ceril looked at Adonai, "Isn't he supposed to become younger?"
Adonai grinned, "I didn't say he would look younger, he will feel younger. Do you feel a change Gwelx?"
Gwelx gave a half smile, "If i say 'yes' i'll be admitting that i felt old. If i say 'no' i'll be lying. Yes, I do feel a change. I feel like Gra'el over there, so now i shall be able to keep up with all of you!" everyone laughed.
Three of the Oracles left the room to let Gra’el and Forn change. After they were done they all sat down around the cave room, ready to sleep. Tomorrow would bring another day of adventures; they would need to be ready.
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Post by Christian Soldier on Aug 10, 2007 18:41:19 GMT -5
Gra'el cracked an eyelid. The morning sun beamed through the cave entrance straight into his eye. He squeezed his eye shut. 'Oh, how I hate mornings.' Sitting up slowly, he took stock of the others.
Gwelx was up and practicing swordsmanship with Ceril, who was losing, sword or no sword. Teya sat at the table admiring her new bow. Her hand caressed the curve. The bow would never need any care, never need any maintenance, never need be unstrung. The memory of his wife sent a pang through his heart. He longed for her then, as he did most mornings. With a determination of years spent alone, Gra'el stood and walked over to Teya.
the stone creaked when he sat down. "Enjoying the new bow?"
"Yes! It's...amazing."
"Yes it is. My wife did the same thing when she first saw it." He gave her a weak smile.
"You okay?"
"I'll be fine. The last few days have been hard. I love her more than anything, but I also know that she wanted me to continue in her place and see this world safely through this age."
"Oh...so, I just think of where I want it to to hit and it will?"
"Yep. Come on, let's try it out." The two stood and walked to away from the others. "Site on that rock over there and let it go."
Teya notched and arrow and drew the string. After a moment's hesitation she released. When she looked at her target again, she gasped. the arrow was embedded shaft deep into the solid rock. "Wow..."
"Teya, there's something you need to think about."
She looked at him. "What?"
"Your going to kill people with this."
The statement hit her in the core of her being. Killing a bone dragon is one thing, but killing a sentient being was something else. Until that moment, she had never even considered what she was going to do with it. "Sure I don't have..."
"Yes, you do. These people must be out of our way in order to succeed. Some could be disabled, yes, but the targets you'll be going after are high value targets. These are people that enslave and destroy others for their masters. I hate it, too, but what must be, must be."
"I--"
"Shhh..." Gra'el quietly put his arm around her. "I only say this so that it's not a surprise. Killing is never easy. Believe me."
For a time, they just stood there, and for a short while, Gra'el was not so lonely.
"You've got to want to hit me, boy!"
Gwelx had been saying that all morning. Ceril was sick of it. "I do," through clinched teeth. He tried another swing that missed.
"Stop!" Ceril stopped mis swing and let the tip lower. "Ceril, you are trying too hard, just hit me."
Exhausted, Ceril simply swung with no force or will behind it. Gwelx yelped as he jumped back. Ceril's eyes dilated as he realized what he had just done. Ceril leaned back and tried again. This time the sword actually nicked Gwelx's arm. "Okay, you've got it. the sword can take care of itself as long as your heart is in it. That's why I wore you out first, by the way."
For some reason, Gewx's smile irritated Ceril.
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Aug 18, 2007 19:40:22 GMT -5
After Gwelx sparred a few more rounds with Ceril, the five Oracles went back into the cave to discuss their next move. Gwelx sat down in the chair around the table and looked at those that surrounded him. It brought comfort to his heart to see five Oracles again sitting at the table.
"So, Ceril, Teya, what do you both think we should do?" asked Gwelx giving them a sly smile.
Ceril looked at Teya then back at Gwelx, "I, um, well, i don't really think i should say anything. i mean, i'm just a-"
"Your just a boy!" roared Gwelx, "That does not matter to me. Just answer the question, Ceril. Do not forget, you are now an Oracle and your opinion matters whether it is wise or foolish! To Adonai we are all the same, forget age and tell me what you think!"
Gwelx looked at Gra'el who was smiling and Forn who was trying to keep a straight face. They both knew Gwelx was trying to get the two young Oracles to understand that age no longer mattered.
Ceril took a breathe and answered, "Well, i think that we should go straight to the desert and find the clans, unite them, then fight off this threat that is ready to devour them."
Teya nodded, "I agree, and i hope that we are not already too late."
Forn's face turned grim, "I too agree, though, the plan is much easier said than done. We will be wondering in the desert trying to find some sort of civilation. But with the clans it is even much harder than that because they are nomads."
Gra'el stood up, "Well, its settled then, we go and find the clans in the desert, then pray that we can win the battles that are to come."
Gra'el ran outside and disappeared, moments later he stuck his head back into the cave as a dragon, "Oh, and i think that Teya deserves to ride on my back this time after bearing through all that she went through last time."
Gwelx laughed, "And what about me?! I am still old!"
Gra'el gave a toothy grin, "No, i think carry you, after all, Forn has to tell me where to go."
Ceril jumped up, "Then you get to carry me as well!"
Gra'el grinned, "Yes."
Gwelx grumbled and walked out of the cave, "Well, lets get this over with. I'm tired of waiting, let Adonai guide us."
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Aug 24, 2007 19:49:40 GMT -5
Gwelx watched the monsters below march through the sand towards a clan camped a few miles away. He took a breathe and tried to glare up at the flying Gra'el who kept squeezing him everytime an arrow raced past them.
"Just hurry Gra'el, we don't have much time!" shouted Gwelx over the rush of the air.
The dragon started to dive towards the little settlement before them. Gwelx went wide eyed as the ground zoom up to them. Gra'el pulled up suddenly and let Ceril and Gwelx tumble onto the ground.
Gwelx rolled several times and got a mouth full of sand before he stopped and was able to get up. When he did he saw several dozen spears circling him and his fellow Oracles.
A tall man stepped out of the circle and growled, "Who are you and why do you bother us!?"
Gwelx studied the man, his face was painted like most of the men there. Gwelx would have guess that he was the chief except for the fact that he didn't wear any jewelry or other items of fashion or signs of royalty. He only wore long tan pants made of animal skin and was bare chested.
Gwelx stood up slowly, his hands in the air and answered, "Sir, we did not mean to intrude but an enemy ha-"
"Silence!" shouted the man, he glared at Gwelx and walked over to him, "I was not talking to you. I was talking to the dragon who dropped you here."
Gra'el growled, "I was hun-"
Forn kicked Gra'el in the side and shook his head. Gwelx watched as the two as they seemed to be communicating through mindspeaking.
The man marched up to Forn and smacked him, "Man, let the dragon speak!"
Gra'el lowered his head until he glaring straight into the man's eyes. The desert man didn't even flinch and glared right back into Gra'el's eyes, "Speak dragon!"
Gra'el lifted his head back up to a normal postion, a smile took over his hard exspression and soon the large dragon was laughing. The desert man gazed at Gra'el confused, "What is funny dragon?"
Gra'el finished his laugh and looked back at the man, "Dear Telion, did you forget who i am?"
Telion's face softened, "Gra'el? Is it really you? I haven't seen you since i was a young boy."
Gra'el nodded, "Yes it is indeed me. And i must say, your welcome was not as i expected."
Telion grimaced, "Times are perilious and I did not reconize your without your beautiful wife on your back. Where is she? I see five of you and i know there are five Oracles, but two of them are too young to be Oracles unless i am mistaken."
Gra'el swallowed, "Rozeta is...dead. And you are mistaken, these two young ones are Oracles that have replaced two of our former Oracles. And we don't have much time, let Forn explain."
Forn walked towards Telion, "Prepare for battle, an enemy marches this way and will arrive soon."
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Post by Christian Soldier on Aug 27, 2007 2:53:51 GMT -5
Gra'el sat in a large ring of warriors. Each and every one preparing himself, or herself, for battle. His eyes traveled across the unfamiliar faces as some prayed, cleaned their weapons, sharpened blades, or simply chatted among themselves. He sighed. His own sword was finally sharp, as was his battle ax. His armor still gleamed in the sunlight, just as it always has.
He had chosen his half-dragon shape for the battle. This was his only form that he could wield two weapons and still guard himself effectively. Not to mention the thick dragon scale hide. Several of the warrior took to singing a boisterous war ballad. Something about dragons, though Gra'el wasn't listening.
"Are you always so quiet before battle?"
Telion had an odd grin on his face as he approached. "Either loud, or silent. I have no in between." Gra'el went back to polishing his sword.
"Each has his own way to prepare. Take me for example. I like to talk to my friends and catch up on old times."
Gra'el sighed. He knew what this battle would cost, and that it would be the first of many. "Other than Rozeta's death, and this current threat, little has happened since our last meeting."
"Why did you never visit, then?"
"Ah, that's the crux of the matter. The truth is that it has taken me this long to get over...well..no. I'm not over Rozeta's death, but I can stand people again. That's why I never visited. I didn't visit anyone. Nothing sentient anyway."
Telion just nodded, unsure of what to say. The silence, between them at least, dragged on till an alarm sounded. One of the boys sent to watch the horizon was screaming as he ran. Telion stood and waved the boy over.
Without missing a step, the look out ran over to Telion and said, "They're here, they're here! The horde is here!"
Telion patted the boy on the head with a sad smile. "Go and join the others, then. You've done a good job today." The boy nodded and ran off. Telion raised his voice above the den, "Warriors! It is time!"
With those simple words, every warrior in the camp let out a fierce roar. In those moments, every warrior released his/her defiance, anger, and fear in a never ending stream of roars and chants. All except one warrior who sat by himself wondering if any of them knew what was to come.
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Sept 7, 2007 11:04:53 GMT -5
Gwelx stood next to Ceril watching the army approach. The monsters they were about to encounter looked like skeletons. They were on fire like the last enemy he had fought. Long spears glinted in the sun light.
Gwelx drew his sword and looked at Ceril, the young man looked back at his mentor, "Gwelx, how do we kill these things?"
Gwelx shrugged, "I don't really know, but i do know that Adonia will provide a way out of this. He always has and always will."
Ceril looked back approaching army. Gwelx followed his gaze, the ground shook with each step that the monsters took. Gwelx suddenly looked at the back of the army, two wings could be seen above the spears and a dragon skull swayed back and forth as it marched foward. Gwelx glanced to his left and saw Forn talking to Teya.
The man looked up and Gwelx walked towards him motioning for him to do the same. Forn stopped talking to Teya and met Gwelx, "What is it?"
Gwelx looked at enemy, "We are out numbered, and besides that, we can't kill these people. They can't die."
"Gwelx, we can win," said Forn.
Gwelx raised an eyebrow, "I didn't say we would lose, i just said we can't kill them. We have to kill something else."
"What do we have to kill?" asked Forn.
Gwelx lowered his head, "Teya didn't kill the Blood Fantom."
"What Blo-" Forn stopped and gazed at the enemy, the dragon marched behind his army, eyes glaring, smoke coming from his nostrils and his wings on fire.
"Huren," muttered Forn, "you think he is the key to defeating this army?"
"I know it is, i have already fought them and they leave no remains, they are already dead. But Huren is not, he is the lord of the dead, if he truly dies, they will vanish."
Forn nodded slowly, "Go tell Gra'el and Ceril, i'll tell Teya and Telion."
Gwelx nodded and went to complete his task.
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Sept 9, 2007 18:32:46 GMT -5
Ceril watched the Hurean army march forward across the great plain of sand. Gwelx had told him of the Huren the great Blood Fantom and they had come up with a name for the skeleton people, Hureans. Ceril's stomach turned, this would not be a pleasant fight.
Ceril watched Telion step out in-front of his men. He raised his sword in the air and shouted, "For Adonia!"
"For Adonia!" echoed the men behind him. Telion held his sword up the dropped it, a volley of arrows lept into the air. The sharp points collided with the enemy, but did little more that slow there march.
Telion then shouted, "Charge!" and surged over the great plain of sand towards the enemy.
Ceril opened his mouth and just shouted as he followed. Gwelx ran beside him saying nothing. Ceril ran and watched the enemy stop and lower their spears waiting for him to impail himself on the sharp points.
As he reached the front line of the enemy, Ceril lept into the air and over the pikes like Gwelx had shown him, and landed on the enemy. He swung his sword at the boney feet of the skeleton people.
Ceril jumped up, he hacked at Hurean. His sword was blocked, he swung again. Ceril felt his blade quiver in his hand from the shock of the opponants deflection. He ducked and felt the warm air being pierced by the blade right over his head.
Ceril looked back up and stabbed at the enemy, the Hurean's grimaced and fell to the ground as Ceril pulled his sword out of its stomach.
Ceril turned around just in time to thwart a blow to his head. Ceril heard a swoosh sound above him and was suddenly plucked into the air by one gigantic bony claw. Ceril gasped as the ground faded and it grew harder to breathe. He heard his captor give a hissing laugh as he faded into unconciousness.
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Post by The Blue Collared Philosopher on Oct 12, 2007 7:08:27 GMT -5
Gwelx watched Gra'el who had Teya on his back, swoop down on the enemy as his rider shot arrow after arrow at the Hureans, when he came back up for another attach, Gwelx shouted "Gra'el go after Huren! He has Ceril!"
The dragon searched the sky for the white dragon. He saw him and went after him. Gwelx turned back to the enemies at hand trying to get into the clearing where he would be able to find Gra'el, Teya, and Ceril.
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Gra'el growled and narrowed his eyes as he gained speed and neared Huren. He could see Ceril's limp form in the claw of the dragon.
Suddenly the white dragon swooped towards the ground and landed with a thud.
Gra'el heard Teya scream as he saw Ceril being smashed the ground under the weight of the heavy dragon claw. Gra'el dove towards the monster.
In seconds Gra'el smashed into Huren knocking both the dragons over and throwing Teya off his back.
Gra'el got up and glared at Huren, "Huren! You will pay for all the pain you have caused!"
The white dragon let out giddy, high pitched giggled, "Oh dear Gra'el, i am not Huren, i am his wife, Elosa."
She laughed and spun her body around until she was in the form of a young woman...the form of the young woman that had defeated him and enprisoned him at king Ransom's castle.
Gra'el growled, "You! I will slay you! I have seen what you are doing to those in your prisons!"
Elosa chuckled, "My dear Gra'el, i was hoping you would join me. Now that Huren is dead i have the whole kingdom to myself, it is quite wonderful. But it would be even better if you were there with me. After all, we're so much alike, we're dragons, we have both lost our spouse in war and are both hurting."
Gra'el snarled, "I will finish you!"
He rushed towards her his huge form shaking the ground and kicking up sand making fog around himself.
She laughed and said, "Fool!"
Elosa reached into the ground of sand then, threw them into the with a loud shout and skeleton people shot out of the ground in front of her.
"Lets fight dragon!" she giggled, "I haven't killed anyone in a long time, but that is because i enjoy watching them suffer."
Gra'el's stomach turned, she made him sick.
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Post by Christian Soldier on Oct 12, 2007 21:21:09 GMT -5
Gra'el rushed in, a massive fog bank of his own makings surrounding him. All around him, Elosa's skeleton warriors charged in. Just before the first one reached him, an arrow snapped the thing's head off. Gra'el smiled. Teya was still with him.
He thickened the fog further, operating now by smell and sound. He heard Elosa giggle again. He cleared the fog there in time to see her. Grim and beautiful in the fog's eery light. She raised her staff over her head and muttered the first half of an incantation.
Gra'el called upon his God, his Master, for help, crying out His name. Elosa blinked as her voice died out. She tried to speak, but failed. Her eyes narrowed in panic. Gra'el shifted to his half-dragon shape, his armor shifting with him. He drew his battle ax and sword and leisurely approached his foe.
Gwelx cracked the nearest creature's head with his staff. Out of the corner of his eye he saw a comrade take a sword through his gut. His staff swung out in the long arc and struck the thing's back. *Snap* It collapsed to the ground and Gwelx tapped his staff against the warrior's stomach, healing it.
He did not pause for thanks, but dove into the next enemy. He cut a wide swath through them, forcing them back further and further. His allies protected his back, keeping his line of retreat clear.
Teya let loose another arrow. She notched and fired again before the first had even hit its target. The fog, which hindered the enemy to great effect, bothered her not at all. One by one the undead warriors fell until she was the only one standing. She took a deep breath and ran into the fog, toward the sound of battle, and the faint moan near it.
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