Tatsumura Masamune
Moderator
Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
Posts: 335
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on May 14, 2007 10:53:08 GMT -5
The clocked figure watches as the group makes it's way around the tree. Though he can only hear the two going through the underbush, he notices the female as an elf the moment her horse clears the jump. He does not move, until the screech of an eagle is heard. He perks up, his violet colored eyes and pale skin finally visable. He jumps up quickly from the branch, leaping to a nearby tree, then down to the ground. He takes off running deeper into the wood. Before the sound of his footsteps vanish in the distance a set of padded feet can be heard joining the cloaked figure, followed by a wolf's howl.
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Post by Zaron on May 15, 2007 8:48:00 GMT -5
Zaron looks up, broken from his thoughts by Stray's call, "What is it young Strays?"
((Sorry for the late response, my life's been abit busy lately.))
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Post by strays on May 15, 2007 18:14:30 GMT -5
OOC: no problem
IC:"I was wondering if you could read this or at least understand what it meant." Strays said while entering the room. Strays then handed over the piece of paper with the strange symbols and letters.
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Post by Zaron on May 16, 2007 6:46:00 GMT -5
Zaron quickly scans the paper as his eyes go wide with alarm. "Where did you find this?"
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Post by storyteller on May 16, 2007 7:14:09 GMT -5
The caravan rode with a steady pace three by three on the narrow path. Three Mittelmarch guards scouting the front, three protecting the rear and Baethor, Taos, Storm, Lady Elestirne and a couple guards rode protected in the center. It was getting late, but they were only hours from the black door. The black door is a portal to the realm from which King Oron resides, but when one passes through it they arrive in Rivendell and must travel north to the Kingdom of Pentwyvern. It wasn’t going to be that easy.
Their horses stride across the straight path.
“Taos, something is ahead of us!”
Taos leans to the right while riding to see past the guard. His Elvin eyes make no mistake, that is the silhouette of Raze, dark elf known for his stealth tactics. A blanket of fear began to cover most of the party.
“Raze…” whispered across the lips of Taos.
Baethor heard this and new what that meant.
The party began to hear the rustle of the forest around them.
FYI: I left this open so you all can respond how you wish. Helvaryn will be handling the enemies and guiding the story. Be sure if get permission from Lady Elestirne, by PM, to join this RP.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 16, 2007 9:49:37 GMT -5
Elestirne had not long to wait before Baethor and Storm cleared the underbrush and Taos and the guards had joined her and Olore on the other side of the tree. While she and the stallion had been waiting she had seen two trees rustle and heard footsteps going away;joined later by the padded footfalls of an animal. She had also glimpsed a pale-skinned form and heard the howl of the wolf as Olore informed her that their watcher had gone.
After being joined by the others and setting out again she had taken a place at the front,but had gradually fallen back to the center with Baethor, Storm, and Taos as the day waned and they drew closer to the thing the others named the Black Door-a portal,Elestirne had surmised-that would take them to Oron's lands.
The group rode three abreast on the path. In the front were three guards, followed by Elestirne, Taos and another guard. Behind them were a second guard,Baethor,and Storm. The last three guards took up the rear. It was getting late now, and they were supposedly only a few hours from the Black Door, but this was little comfort to the elven-queen. Elestirne had been riding in a state of heightened wariness and alert for nearly two hours now. So, when the guard had called to Taos her hands had imediently gone to the swords on her hips-knowing Olore would move independently of guidance from her-and her keen grey eyes pierced through the darkening night to make out the figure of an elf-black-skinned-some distance in front of them,yet all too near. At the same time she noted the forest rustling on either side of them.
Olore noticed too-his eyes and ears were keener than hers-and his sculpted ears imediently laced back as he snorted softly;nostrils flaring as he scented the air. The air is tainted and foul. Danger is ahead and to either side of us Lady. And,by this point, likely behind as well. We are surrounded I think. It begins. The stallion's skin shivered and Elestirne very briefly freed a sword to stroke the arched neck tenderly. It is a dark elf milady, Olore continued;answering her unasked question. Foul,evil,honorless things. He might have been sent by Telemachus-indeed,I would say 'tis likely. And this is a bad place for an attack. The path is too narrow and we are hemmed in. He has the advantage in this place-for he knows we have little manuverability here.
Elestirne dipped her head very slightly in answer;continueing to stroke Olore's neck as her uneasiness grew. Her swords began to glow in their sheathes with a soft,subtle light;warning of the danger to come. Elestirne's tone was grim was she answered the silver stallion. This was orchestrated by Telemachus I am sure. We are caught;hemmed in on all sides and manuvered so that we will have a hard time breaking free of whatever forces surrounding us. You, I and a few others may be able to break free before the trap is sprung,but then we will be left to the dark elf-and Telemachus if he is here.
The stallion dipped his head and snorted;pawing the ground as he came to a halt. I refuse to be so easily caught. You and I will attempt to win free of the main force. Any enemies that seek to engage us best beware-for they will find us a force to be reckoned with;too much for most,and a match for the dark elf and Telemachus if we meet them. We are not to be taken lightly,and woe I will wreak to any that try harm you. You are the Starbrow:Queen of Elves! And I am with you! The silver stallion reared high. There was a dangerous light in his eyes and he seemed to shine with a subtle silver light.
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Taos
Grunt
Airstrikes for Everyone!
High Born, High Elf...Need I Say More
Posts: 358
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Post by Taos on May 16, 2007 10:42:22 GMT -5
As the party rode on, Taos briefly allowed himself to consider the possibility that the forces arrayed against the little group had passed them by, in favor of more tempting targets. It took only the sight of Raze, debased mockery of all that was noble and good about the elven race, to rid him of that slender hope.
He let go of the reins, and pulled his shield off of his back and his sword from its sheath. Nudging his horse back onto its hind legs, he locked eyes with the shadowy figure.
"Come out from your shadows and fight me with honor, Raze, or will you force me to cut through all of your servants just to get to you? Better for them that they should flee now, or I'll send them back to the hells they spawned from!"
In a much quieter voice, he whispers to the Lady and Baethor.
"Take the front guards and run to the Black Door, fast as you can. If you go now, you may escape the jaws of this trap...we will keep them more than occupied here."
With that, he slides off his steed and heads into the woods, leading the way for those who stay behind, and set on bringing death to the forces who foolishly thought they would have an easy battle.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 16, 2007 11:32:31 GMT -5
Elestirne nodded to Taos as Olore came back to earth. The same dangerous gleam in her stallion's eyes showed as simmering silver flames in hers. A subtle light seemed to touch her as well,but this light was silver-blue. "The light has no fear of the dark and the dark is foolish to think to catch it so easily,"she said. "Olore and I can get free, but Baethor and those we take with will not be able to keep up for long."
With a soft-spoken but clear command,she caught the attention of the lead three guards and Baethor and Storm. "Come. We go. We shall spring the confines of this trap and make for the Black Door. Keep pace as long as you can,then show me the way when your mounts can no longer follow." She waited for their nods,then cued Olore. The stallion reared once again,then was off instantly;the other five keeping to his heels. They swept past the waiting enemies that lay hid on the right side of the path and were clear of them before they had any idea that some of their quarry had escaped. If the elven-queen and her stallion were seen it was only as a faint,fleeting impression of glimmering silver and a soft jingle of bells,for Olore ran silently-as elf-horses could-and Elestirne was pressed close to the stallion;her silver-grey cloak and the stallion's long mane-whipped back by the speed of his going-helped to mantle her form and the pair looked like a ghostly star as they broke the trap and continued on along another path away frrom the now confused and baffled enemy. Elestirne could hear the others behind her and was glad that they had managed to keep pace.
When they were far enough Olore slowed from his racing gallop to a swift canter,a far easier gait for the mounts of the others-especially Baethor's pony-to keep up with,and one that allowed them the ability to come up alongside her, instead of being a few lengths behind her no matter how fast they were. As Olore shifted into the slower gait-but what was still considered a fast pace by the others-Elestirne raised herself from her crouched position and sat tall again,after checking her swords. They sat quiet in their sheathes. Olore had done well and gotten them away from the main force. Still..the feeling of unease remained. Elestirne's keen grey eyes swept the area,flashing from side to side,seeing the night-darkened landscape easily. Olore halted after a minute and lifted his muzzle to scent the air;ears swiveling back and forth,but at a more relaxed rate.
What do your fine senses tell you my friend? Elestirne asked,patting the silver neck as she waited for the others to catch them up.
We have done well,the stallion replied. We are away from the main force-enough that none can come seek us with Taos and the remaining guards occupying them-but I ran a little farther than I intended. We are slightly off course for the Black Door. We need to head back that way-I sense the magic He nodded to the south and east, then hesitated slightly. I also sense some tainted magic. We should ride with caution and care. We're not in the clear yet and while we're waiting for the others we are vulnerable once again. I hope they catch up to us soon-I do not want to wait here longer than a few seconds.
Duly noted friend. I feel the same. Elestirne continued scanning the area guardly-grey eyes flashing from side to side as they pierced the night-as Olore shifted his weight beneath her and pawed the ground slightly. One sculpted ear flicked back briefly while its mate and his head remained focused ahead. I hear them Lady. Good. We can be on our way for the Black Door .
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Post by strays on May 16, 2007 21:01:02 GMT -5
Strays quickly responds, "I was talking to a strange man who never left the shadows, he was offering a job for GN i don't know what those initials mean. I said that i didn't want the job and he stormed out of the tavern. As he walked out he must have dropped this. I couldn't read what it said but can you?"
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Post by storyteller on May 17, 2007 6:11:45 GMT -5
Elestirne breaks off the path with Storm, Baethor and a couple of soldiers. Without warning a rope is tightened at the legs of the horses. Olore, on pure instinct, leaps over the trap, but Baethor, Storm, and the two soldiers tumble over the top of their rides. They are surrounded by 4 vial orcs. They stand surrounded, the sound of metal piercing metal, a spear tears through the chest of one of the soldiers. A goblin’s laugh is heard in the distance. Taos and the three rear soldiers run towards the front soldiers. Before they can reach them, Raze flows like the wind kicking off trees to elevate his blades to the level of the soldier’s throats. He slices too of the soldiers dead. Before their heads hit the ground the third soldier’s horse is rearing back in fear. Raze guts the horse it falls and crushes the leg of the soldier, his screams echo throughout forest, then suddenly silenced by Raze’s blade piercing his chest. Taos and the other men hear the gurgling of blood. Taos charges fearlessly wanting Razes head, but they find themselves enclosed by a wall of about 10 orcs and Raze disappears. Elestirne rides through the forest being chased by two orc riders.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 17, 2007 9:20:33 GMT -5
Olore stiffened suddenly;every muscle in his powerful body going tense. Taking the cue Elestirne tensed also;piercing grey eyes sweeping through the darkness. What is it Olore?she asked;blessing the strange connection between them that allowed them to speak thus.
It is not the others behind us. Its orcs,on some sort of beasts. The stallion's tone was grim. We must fly,and quickly.
But then the others...
Are dead or captured,was the grim answer. There was a rope stretched across our path Lady. I saw it and cleared it,but the mounts of the others must not of,and so,the others must have been captured-and Taos and the rest of the guards likely also. I heard the screams and smelt the blood.
Elestirne's keen ears had heard the screams also,but she had retained the hope that those had been enemy screams,and not belonging to her companions-even though she knew they had sounded far too human.But how could riders have been sent after us? Much less be able to still follow? You ran silently and swiftly.
The stallion snorted softly in deep disgust. Dark magic can track and keep up with a elf-horse and rider-though the pursuers may be far behind. Do you remember Aegnor;tracking you with dark magic?
Elestirne shuddered. She remembered all too well the fallen high elf. That would haunt her for some time yet. What then should we do Olore?
The silver stallion tilted his head slightly-though keeping his ears pointed back to check on the progress of their pursuers. With dark magic aiding them they will be able to track and follow us even though they may be far behind. They will catch us eventually-it is the plan of whomever set this. And if they used dark magic to ensure they can follow us,then they want us-or,more likely,you milady.
So what shall we do friend?
Ride. Give them a good chase as long as we can. Then stand and fight for as long as we are able when they surround us or when I'm weary of being chased. I won't let you be taken if it is in my power to prevent it. I know,Elestirne stroked Olore's neck and looked around. What should we make for? The Black Door?
The silver stallion shook his head. They will expect that. We will go the opposite route:back to Mittelmarch. Let's see how far we get before being caught.
Elestirne smiled grimly;eyes glinting.No..more like how long they can follow a elf-horse at full speed. Nothing in the world can catch an elf-horse and rider moving at full speed. Just one thing first. Bending forward,the elven-queen nimbly muffled the bells on the bridle. There. Now ride on Olore!
With pleasure My Lady! The silver stallion launched into a gallop from a standing start. In the blink of an eye,the two were gone without a sound;streaking back towards Mittelmarch.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 18, 2007 23:32:37 GMT -5
Elestirne and Olore had been galloping hard for perhaps a half-hour,when Olore started to slow;snorting softly. I'm weary of being chased Lady. Time for the hunters to become the hunted. Then they at least,we shall not have to worry about.
"What did you have in mind my friend?" Elestirne asked softly,stroking Olore's neck. She was worried for the others,and wished to make all speed to Mittelmarch to alert Zaron and Nichtmar of the attack on the group,but she would listen to what her horse had to say.
The silver stallion halted and nodded to one side;indicating some trees. Take to them. I will explain A very faint smile flickered on the elven-queen's face as she slipped off the stallion and obliged.
Two hours later the orcs and their beasts barrelled into the area;searching for the elf and her horse. After a few seconds they spotted Olore-who was just a few yards ahead,appearing to graze. The silver stallion's head came up and he was off in an instant;lithe as a deer. Yelling,the orcs spurred their mounts on after him,but suddenly found themselves continuing on in midair-for the strange beasts had toppled face first into the earth without a cry;a white-fletched arrow protuding from each throat. Both orcs fell hard and rolled but recovered and jumped back up;weapons ready.
A lithe form detached itself from a shadowed branch;landing silently on light feet behind the orcs. Two shining blades sang as they leapt free of their sheathes. Elestirne leapt for the orcs as they turned. There was a flurry of blows,then one orc fell-its throat slashed open. The second was stronger and more cunning,but after a few moments it had joined its companion in death.
Olore nickered as he reappeared from the brush. Elestirne wiped the mithril blades clean,stowed her bow and quiver back in their proper place,and leapt back astride the stallion. Good, Olore commented. With those two dealt with we can make better time now. There is still a taint of dark magic about though. We should continue to be careful.
"How far have we come Olore?."
The silver stallion tilted his head in consideration. In a few hours I have perhaps come the distance a normal horse would take half a day to cover.
" Good,"Elestirne murmured. Taking up the reins,she tapped her heels lightly to Olore's sides. "Come friend. Let's be away from this place."
Agreed Olore shook out his luxurious mane,then tossed his long forelock back before moving out at a swift,smooth canter.
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Tatsumura Masamune
Moderator
Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
Posts: 335
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on May 21, 2007 11:00:16 GMT -5
As the she-elf and horse start to make there way, three orcs appear out of the woodline. The one furthest to the back readies a javalin at the she-elf, while the other two run as fast as they can after her. The rear orc yells out suddenly. The two charging orcs turn to see a eagle attacking their companion. Then, one of the two is knocked down from behind, a wolf being the culprit. As the single standing orc rasies it's axe to cleave the wolf, a glint catches his eye. The cloaked figure leaps from a nearby tree, thrusting his katana into the heart of the orc. The look of surprise is followed by the dim emptiness of life's light that is barely there to begin with. The figure turns his blade, and rips it out through the side of the now dead orc. The nearby orc throws the wolf from itself and lunges at the cloaked figure. The figure parries the attackand then spins, bringing a quick counterslash across the orcs stomach, spilling his insides. With a second spin, the figure brings his blade higher, hitting the orc at the neck, sending it's head flying past the she-elf. The figure turns just as a javalin flys by, nicking his left arm as he just barely misses it. The two stare at each other. The figure sheathes his sword, perparing himself. The orc roars with fury and charges the figure. As the orc comes within range, it puts all of it's weight behind it's attack. But after a flash, the figure stands behind the orc, his weapon drawn, and covered with the black blood of the orc. The orc stands there for a moment then, the upper half of his body falls forward, his legs falling to the back. The figure sheathes his sword, and a cut becomes apparent on his shoulder. He looks to the she-elf, before turning at the sound of more feet. Several more orcs arrive, numbering about 10. The figure turns, and stretches out his hand. A extremely long sword appears in his hand. He marks a line in front of him and steps in front of it. He looks back to the she-elf. A single word utters from his mouth. "Go." With nothing else to say, the figure rushes the remaining orcs.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 21, 2007 13:43:35 GMT -5
No sooner had Olore begun to move out than did Elestirne’s swords began to glow brightly in warning. The stallion checked himself abrubtly and slid to a stop; rearing and spinning around on his hindquarters as he sensed the danger. He reared with a trumpeting whinny, nostrils flaring and ears lacing back as he saw the orcs. Not clear yet Lady! He snorted, pawing the ground as Elestirne’s swords leapt free of their sheathes. Whoever set the attack definitely intended for us to get away and must have set the orcs here to wait for us-which means they suspected or knew we would make for Mittelmarch rather than the Black Door. We are being played milady and I like not the game.
Together the two watch as the cloaked figure, the wolf, and the eagle effectively kill three orcs. Olore sidestepped gracefully as a severed head sailed by. It is our watcher from the fallen tree lady. It appears he followed our group. An adept warrior,to be sure. Elestirne’s bright eyes briefly followed the severed head as it sailed past her, then focused again on the figure. “Interesting. It seems he is a friend wouldn’t you say Olore?” The stallion nickered, dipping his regal head in a nod.
It certainly seems that way milady. And he is giving us an opportunity we might be wise to take. The silver stallion’s sculpted ears swiveled and his nostrils flared as he lifted his head. More orcs are approaching. About ten I would say. He will be outnumbered. The stallion dipped his head;nodding to a spot some distance ahead of the figure. Ten or so orcs were creeping from the trees in a ordered group.
"Shall we help him Olore?"
The stallion cavaled;sidestepping. He is giving us an opportunity. We should take it. He has some sort of power or magic-of a sort that I am unfamiliar with. He may not last long by himself against those numbers but he will certainly take at least some down with him. We should go. I do not know why he is aiding us,but he is giving us time we best use.
He is already injured though Olore. We should help. This time, Elestirne's response response was silent-thought,not spoken.
Olore tossed his head,rearing. This is no time for you to be a healer lady. You are Queen of your people and it is my concern and duty to see you to safety and prevent you from harm. If we go into that battle we both will be injured. Those are not the ussual rabble of orcs-they put me in mind of the ones that were with Telemacchus. And a taint of dark magic hangs about them. I do not want to linger here. We need to go.
As you wish my friend, Elestirne agreed. We will use the opportunity he is providing,in the hopes of getting a little further ere being caught and surrounded. To join this battle would be playing into the hands of the one controlling this game. Let us go then. The slender elven-queen watched as an extremely long sword appeared in the figure's hand and he drew a line and stepped over it to rush the ten oncoming orcs. Whoever he is,he is brave,though I understand not why he would help us.
There is no time to reflect upon it,Olore returned.We must be on our way. The silver stallion cavaled-sidestepping and pawing the ground-then reared with a snort and trumpeting whinny as Elestirne gave him his head. She nodded regally to the figure;aknowledging his request and his bravery and she lifted a hand as Olore touched ground and leapt away into a gallop. Her swords flared briefly with bright light,then dimmed as they were sheathed. Elven-queen and stallion raced away,disappearing into the night as a faint silver glimmer;leaving the cloaked figure and his strange companions to deal with the orcs.
Note: I am leaving today for a mini-vacation to Talen's in Michigan and will not be back until next Tuesday. Storm,Baethor,Taos,please respond as you will to the orcs surrounding you. Tatsumara,the same. Nichtmar,please do not attack or ambush me if you can help it,but if you want you may-I just won't see/react to it until Tuesday night. Zaron and Strays,you are free to continue with your end of the story as you see fit. Everyone have a good week!
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Taos
Grunt
Airstrikes for Everyone!
High Born, High Elf...Need I Say More
Posts: 358
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Post by Taos on May 22, 2007 1:46:21 GMT -5
Hours previous...
As Taos rushed the first orc, shield up and sword high, he considered that he might die here. The stranger had escaped to carry on her message to Oron, though, and even if it was cold comfort, it would have to be enough. Although a new arrival to the war, Raze had been a thorn in Mittelmarch's and in particular, Taos' side, long enough, and the high elf itched to strike him down.
He hammered the side of his shield into the first orc's throat, crushing its windpipe and leaving it uselessly clutching for air, while his sword swept smoothly through the scrap leather armor of a second orc, laying its torso open from hip to shoulder.
The next orc, though, was quicker and more prepared than its fellows, catching Taos with the back of his club and driving iron spikes into the elf's side, who repaid the favor with a swift slice across the orc's shoulders, seperating head and body.
He looked back, to see each of the others engaged with their own foes, but clearly their superiors, and then forward, deeper into the woods, keen eyes picking out the way Raze went.
He thought about it for a moment, and then suppressed his pride, ever the death of a high elf, and turned back into the fray, the enchanted blade of his family sword catching the light of the sun as he held it high. As he plunged back into the fight, marring the sheen of his blade with foul orc blood, the forest rang with his battlecry.
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Taos
Grunt
Airstrikes for Everyone!
High Born, High Elf...Need I Say More
Posts: 358
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Post by Taos on May 24, 2007 4:08:50 GMT -5
Long moments pass…
Taos slid his sword through the neck of one of the fallen orcs, ensuring it was dead, before flicking the blood off his blade and putting it away. After the first three, there had hardly been any left for him, and he was duly impressed by the martial skills of Storm, from whom he hadn’t expected much. In Taos’ opinion, those who spoke much could do little, but it was pleasing to be proven wrong in this instance.
He walked across the path, intending to say something congratulatory, and yet vaguely arrogant to Storm. The fight here was quite the object lesson in and of itself, but it never hurt to reinforce the brutality of this war in the minds of the new arrivals.
“The challenge of orcs is beneath you, high elf…come into the woods, to me, if you care to test your sword arm against a more worthy foe."
Taos paused in the middle of the path. There was no mistaking the voice of a dark elf, but where had it come from?
“You should tell your companions that you go to your death…that the wyrm’s gaze has fallen upon you, as you would say. I saw no part of your blade style that gives me concern, high elf…it will be a pleasure killing you.”
Ah…dark magic of some sort. Taos’ latent magical skills were certainly no match for a trained sorcerer, at least not obviously, but it was still irritating that this dark elf’s magic had slithered past the mental barriers Taos used to protect himself from the fouler magical arts. He had been willing to ignore Raze’s mockery until now, but the desire to strike him down and end this was too strong to resist.
He turned and walked into the forest.
Minutes go by…
Raze was waiting for him in a clearing in the woods…a smooth grassy circle some 20 feet wide. The dark elf detached himself from the shadow of the trees on the far side, dual swords in hand. There was no discussion, and the two mortal enemies walked towards each other, stopping some 5 feet apart. Raze dropped into a low crouch, muscles coiled like a viper, and circled, looking for his opening.
Taos kept his shield up, but loose, ready to hammer its bottom edge down on Raze if the dark elf went for his legs. It was likely that his blades were poisoned, and the slightest scratch could mean death. As they circled, exploring for a weakness, Taos let his shield dip slightly, exposing an open shoulder.
Raze struck, exploding from his crouch like a bolt of lightning, one blade thrusting in for Taos’ shoulder, the other out wide to block the counterstroke. Taos had drawn him into the trap, though, and danced out of the way, bringing his sword across Raze’s stomach in a spinning stroke to disembowel him. He felt the enchanted blade skitter across something solid though, and looked back to see dark metal through the cut in Raze’s clothing. So the dark elf had some advantages as well. Enchanted armor, and enchanted blade…this would be interesting.
Raze came back in, his swords a blur of motion in front of him, the ferocity of his attack driving Taos back and off balance. Letting his shield take the brunt of the onslaught, Taos slid beneath the attack, only to be met with a kick to the knee, sending him sprawling. He twisted mid-fall, bringing his knees up to his chest, and hammered Raze in the stomach as the dark elf leapt for the killing stroke.
They both stood up, some five or six feet apart.
“Fighting dirty, high elf? I expected more from you.”
Taos shot back, “If you expected me to die quietly, you’ll be sadly surprised.”
They circled each other for a moment, and sprang in, in a sheen of steel and sparks, the fight truly beginning. Any outsider watching the fight would have been hard pressed to follow the intricacies of each stroke and counter-stroke, elven skill and speed outpacing the eye’s ability to follow. Finally, they stepped apart. The sudden silence after the ringing exchange of blows was tense, as Raze slowly reached up to his cheek, and brought his fingers back in front of his eyes, sticky with blood.
He looked at Taos and growled, “No one bleeds me, high elf…I’ll not forget this.”
Taos replied, “Your ability to remember anything is about to be cut drastically short,” as he rushed in, ready to finish this. Raze, though, had other ideas. He ran back for the trees, and disappeared into the shadows. To Taos’ eyes, he sank into the ground with every step further into the darkness. Taos stopped at the edge of the trees, trying to pick out the path Raze took, or hear his footsteps, and failed. The dark elf’s magic was powerful, and would have to be dealt with, but it would have to come at a later time.
For the moment, other things were more important. With that thought in his head, he refocused on the task at hand, and made his way back to the path and the others.
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Post by storyteller on May 24, 2007 7:14:16 GMT -5
Barely a sound was made from Olore’s gallop as he sped through forest to rejoin with Taos and the others, the protection of his rider his only concern. They moved at such a blinding speed that Lady Elestirne had to trust in the vision of Olore to guide them through the forest.
Suddenly a dark a figure was on a collision course towards them. As they got closer they could tell it was Raze, his blades held straight behind him as he closed on them. Moments before impact Raze leaped into the air spinning his blades around, his body flipped in the air, with both blades he was going to strike down Elestirne. The Lady jumped to her feet on the back of Olore and dove towards Raze blocking his swords with her two Elvin blades. The clash of steel rang through the forest. The momentum spun them around each other. Raze landed, poised low to the ground. Elestirne also landed on her feet as Olore skidded to a stop behind her. They both stood without fear, ready for this battle. The grin across Raze’s face was like a rip into a black hell. His silver teeth seemed sharpened as they contrasted his darkness. Raze and Elestirne charged each other, Raze swung low with one blade, Elestirne blocked, he spun his other towards her with a back swing at her head, she blocked that shot as well. They flowed around each other like a dance, wind and the clang of the steel their music. Olore was not in a position to help, his frustration was evident. Blade ricocheted off blade to lead to counters and blocks, their defense was incredible. It would not last. Elestirne broke his defense and gashed his thigh, the black blood splattered on the leaves. If one took the time you could see the green life exit the leaves, dry and turn brown. Raze spun slow and slashed a shallow cut across Elestirne’s stomach. Raze could smell her blood as it dripped down her light blue dress. Raze knew he had already won. It would only be moments before Elestirne would fall from the poison. Olore saw this and with fury charged Raze. Olore ran into an explosion of smoke and when it cleared, Olore was alone.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 29, 2007 17:16:27 GMT -5
Olore galloped hard after leaving the strange cloaked figure and the orcs;seeking to make up for lost time. Elestirne sat him with perfect balance as he galloped;by habit scanning the ground for anything that might trip up or impede the silver stallion-even though she knew that he always unerringly found the surest path and followed it. The stallion was moving at a blinding speed though-far swifter than any mortal mount could achieve-and the forest passed by as a green and brown blur. Nothing in the world could hope to catch them at this pace without the aid of magic. Knowing that,the elven-queen should have felt relieved and safe. Instead, a feeling of unease and impending danger kept her tense and on edge;growing stronger the more time passed.
As the two galloped through a more open part of the forest, Elestirne's eyes caught a brief flicker of darkness-moving at an unnatural speed towards them-and she was able in an instant to recognize the dark elf that had been blocking the group's progress to the Black Door. But they were far from that place now-very far. How would he have been able to keep up with and intercept them? The answer came a momemt later. Dark magic....Elestirne shuddered.
It must have been he that had set it so that Olore and I could be tracked and followed no matter what. When those orcs did not stop us he must have eluded Taos and the others to confront us himself,she surmised quickly. But why? Why all the effort to catch us?
Olore's words about being played in a game came back to her and the elf smiled grimly;face becoming determined. So then, we must have some importance to some plan of his,or Telemacchus's. Well, if he means to take me he won't find it easy. Quick as anything,the elf sprang from her seat to stand on Olore's back. Her swords leapt singing from their sheathes,both glowing with a pale light;as she waited,biding her time. At the perfect moment,she launched herself from the saddle towards Raze.
Their swords clashed in a shower of sparks as she parried,blocked and countered his attack with blinding speed. The momentum and speed of their meeting spun the two around each other. Both landed agilely on the forest floor a short distance apart.
Elestirne heard Olore slide to a stop and wheel around with a trumpeting neigh,but there was nothing the stallion could do. Her and Raze had joined weapons again,and, as good as the stallion was in a fight,he could not help her here. She and the dark elf moved so swiftly that where one was one instant the other was the next. He could not interfere or get at the dark elf. No clear shot at Raze with hooves and teeth existed for the silver stallion without potentionally hurting Elestirne as well. All he could do was circle anxiously and desperately around the dueling pair as they battled;wanting to help and protect his lady-but unable to do anything at all save watch as the fight progressed.
As Raze and she dueled Elestirne blessed and was grateful for the weapons training her father had given her-and what she had learned the few times she had seen him practicing. He had not been a master swordsman,but he had devoted his life to the art and his dedication and determination had given him a level of skill nearly equal to that of a master. Elestirne had learned much of him and that training,supplemented with her teaching in Mirenan and experience fighting with Aegnor,helped her here.
The slender elven-queen moved with skill and purpose, her graceful,flowing movements deceptively slow-for she was as quicksilver; her swords moving so swiftly they were as tongues of silver fire darting through the air. The mithril blades rang with pure,clear notes as she blocked one,two,three,four times in the space of a few seconds. Raze was equally swift and the pair flowed around each other in a dance of light and shadow. The dark elf was good, but eventually Elestirne broke through his defenses and scored a long, deep gash on his thigh.
At the same time,he scored a shallow hit on her stomach;tearing the cloth and drawing a line of blood. It wasn't a fatal wound by far...but it burned as dark fire and had a tainted touch,a feeling which seemed to be spreading...
She realized it was poison as the forest blurred and spun around her and a deep weariness assaulted her;tugging her into darkness. Breathing a curse,she cried out for Olore with all the urgency she could summon as darkness began to overtake her. Olore! Get to Mittelmarch and alert Zaron and Nichtmar! Tell them what has happened! The silver stallion answered but Elestirne-already unconsious-did not hear.
The silver stallion bugled in rage as Elestirne fell, and he charged forward with a snort and trumpet;focused only on crushing the one that had dared attack and harm his lady beneath his hooves. But, just as the stallion got close enough and was rearing to strike down the dark elf, there was a sudden explosion of smoke and the elven-horse found that his hooves met only the earth. Baffled,Olore looked about. His lady and the dark one were nowhere to be seen. Even Elestirne's swords had disappeared.
Olore scented the air-attempting to see if he could catch wind of his lady and the dark elf. His ears laced back as he scented dark magic. So the dark one had used that to disappear,but where had they gone? There are many places in this strange land that they could of... The silver stallion's gaze fell upon the mountains and he nodded. There.
Desperately, he called for his lady,but there was no answer in his mind. If she is harmed or killed many will suffer and die before I kill myself of shame. He thought about heading for the mountains imediently,but Elestirne had told him to get to Mittelmarch. Tossing his head in frustration, he reared then launched into a gallop so fast that the muffling about his bells was torn loose. They rang high and shrill as he sped off;a silver star streaking for Mittelmarch with all the considerable speed available to him. Any creature that saw him coming or whom was in his way quickly got out of it-but Olore noticed not and cared not. His only thoughts were of getting to Mittelmarch, rescueing his lady,and punishing those that were responsible for attacking and seizing her.
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on May 29, 2007 19:38:37 GMT -5
As Taos returned to the battle site, Storm had finished running the last orc through and wiped his sword his sword and shield on the rag he had on him of the blood of the orcs he had killed. As soon as Taos entered the site Storm had noticed that Taos look even more sweaty than he did before they finished the fight. "You fought valiantly today Taos, I see you are no amateur in the ways of combat. You suspect this is the last of them?" Storm then sheathed his sword and whistled into the air. As soon as he did his chestnut mare came galloping towards him. He calmed her and checked her for any injuries. "You seem tired Taos, where did you go after the fight? I saw you leave, but I thought you just needed a little time alone or something."
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Tatsumura Masamune
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on May 29, 2007 19:43:52 GMT -5
The cloaked figure stood there, centered in a circle of dead orcs. It had become clear that he had not incured any other wounds,a nd the wounds he had had already begun to heal.A few had simply been cut down, but some of the others layed there with shards of ice inbedded in them. The figure looked at his summoned sword. The blood that rested on it began to disappear, as if the blade itself was drinking the blood. The blade vanished soon after returning to it's original state.
The wolf walked up to the figure, raiseing his head up at him and letting out a few light growls. The figure began to speak in a strange language. It was not elvish, but it flowed off his tongue just like smooth running water. "I know Sezaru, things are not yet over," the figure said to the wolf. Then with a screech, the eagle came down out of the sky, landing on the figure's arm. "What is it Ayame?" The bird screeched a few times as though it were really talking to the figure.
"I see, so, the caravan is in ruins, the she-elf is gone, and the horse is returning to the town.....this is not good." The figure looked around the ground with a focused look, and noticed a single strand of hair that had fallen from the horse. He picked it up and examined it, before turning to the two animals. "It seems that this is our only friend right now. You two get going after him, I will see you when you get there."
The wolf howled and the eagle screeched in acknowledgement. The eagle leaped into the air and began flying with great speed. The wolf seemed to tense up, it's muscles seeming to grow. Then, it shot off with a burst, it's speed easily making him a sudden blur.
The figure stood up, witht the strand of hair resting in his hand. He released it, and it hung in midair. The figure began making strange hand gestures, then, brought both hands together around the hair. A torrent of cold winds suddenly surrounded the figure, and closed in on him, causing him to vanish. In a another moment he landed on top of the horse, jumping off as he felt the steeds great speed pull itself out from underhim.
Still speaking in his native tongue. "Well, I didn't think it was running that fast." The figure stood up watching as the horse continued onwards. He looked down at the strand of hair in his hand, which quickly turned to ash.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 30, 2007 0:30:57 GMT -5
Elestirne woke abrubtly and was instantly alert and wary. Instinct told her not to make any sudden movements,so she kept still while she thought. The last thing she remembered was fighting Raze and telling Olore to get to Mittelmarch. Raze had gotten a hit on her even as she had slashed open his thigh. His had been a minor strike,but there had been something not right about it...she had been poisoned,that had been it. She had expected it,more or less,but she hadn't anticipated the speed and fierceness of his attack,nor the way it had come about.
Remembering the wound now,her hand instinctively moved to her stomach and side,only to find the area healed,if tender. Magic had been at work on it. Some of it had been her own innate healing magic,but the rest had been the work of another's magic.
Warily and quietly she began to take in her surroundings. She was in a black silk bed and,curiously,did not seem to be bound,chained or anything of the sort-something that surprised her,for she had almost expected to be. A quick check confirmed that all her weapons and possesions were with her,including her swords. Only her bow and quiver of arrows were unaccounted for-but those of course,were on Olore's saddle and Olore was en route to Mittelmarch. She hoped that he reached Zaron and Nichtmar quickly.
Slowly,she began to sit up-putting a hand to the tender area as she did-and looked around cautiously;taking in her surroundings. She appeared to be in a strange room,with a smooth,polished floor but a dark,jagged ceiling. From her position,she could make out a tall window of sorts and glimpse sky through it. Aside from feeling weak from the poison still and from the area around the healed slash being tender still she was hale and had no other wounds.
Raze must have brought her here,she surmised as she lay in the bed,looking around unobtrusively. Where here was and why she had been brought here were still egnimas to the slender elf. Her drifting gaze caught sight of Telemacchus now and automatically she tensed. The sorceror had his back to her though,and was looking out through another,larger opening at what Elestirne could only surmise was Mittelmarch. He gave no indication that he knew she was there,but she was very certain that he did know. With nothing else that could be done,she stayed there,watching quietly. She had an uncanny feeling that she would learn the where and why soon,and the how long soon after-for she realized that she did not know that either. She could have been unconsious for only a few hours,or it could have been a day or more. Tense and wary,she could only wait.
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Post by telemachus on May 30, 2007 6:40:50 GMT -5
Telemachus watches the sunrise from one of the higher peaks of the Iron Mountains. A sliver, a little higher than a man, is cut out that oversees Mittelmarch. He stands on the very edge with no fear and his dark-blue cloak flutters gently across the wind. Clouds sprinkle the morning sky. It is a beautiful morning even one to whom seems so dark. He turns to look upon Lady Elestirne covered in black silk. A grin rises on his face.
His voice deep and slow, “You must be hungry…”
He gestures slightly to the table of two that oversees the Land. Various fruits, breads and cut meats decorate the table. His pale hands gently grasps the bottle of wine, he pours a glass and walks it over to Elestirne. He holds it in front of her.
“Please join me.”
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 30, 2007 13:50:05 GMT -5
Elestirne tensed more as Telemacchus turned and came over to her holding a glass of wine. She kept her gaze steadily on him;her silver eyes piercing and raking him as she considered the offered wine warily and suspiciously. Something told her that it was not poisoned-for,if Telemacchus wanted her alive what would be the point of poisoning her? She noted the table of two set out and nodded inwardly to herself. So Olore was right. It is something to do with me...likely he will attempt to win me to his side again. Unobtrusively,she slipped a hand under the covers to reassure herself that her hidden dagger was where it should be.
Her gaze shifted subtly to the window before coming back to Telemacchus and she saw now that it was not a window but an opening into nothing. Judging from the view it presented,she was high up in the air which could only mean that she must be in the mountains somewhere. The answer to her first question confirmed,and the answer to her second suspected left her only with the third.
Her musical voice was even and firm as she answered Telemacchus and she ignored the offered glass of wine to sip instead of the flask of miruvir on her hip;thankful that she had thought of keeping it,part of her store of lembas,and her pouch thus-instead of storing them in one of Olore's saddlebags. Had she not,she would have had to accept the sorceror's offer of food and drink. "I do not hunger or thirst. Keep your offer."
She got out of the bed and swept over to the opening that looked out over Mittelmarch;noticing as she did so that her traviling clothes and cloak had been removed,mended and set to the side with her swords,and she seemed to be garbed in the pale blue silk dress she had been wearing under the traviling clothes. As she looked out,she saw,faintly,a silver star amid the green and brown,speeding for Mittelmarch,and knew it was Olore. And now she knew that she had to be in the Iron Mountains that Mittelmarch lay in the shadow of,and that it had to at least have been a day since her capture-for it would have taken the stallion that long at full gallop to reach the town. She was too weak from the lingering effects of the poison to call to him though,and turned to Telemacchus. "I suppose you will say why I was attacked,captured and brought here,and why the escort and I were attacked? I felt your hand in it."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on May 30, 2007 15:01:20 GMT -5
Olore stretched out,galloping hard. He had been running unpausing for a little over a day now-from the night Elestirne had been captured,to last night,to this dawn-and was wearying. Even Elven-horses cannot gallop a day without pause with impunity. In all that time Olore had repeatedly tried to contact Elestirne but had heard nothing,which could only mean-he hoped-that his lady was still unconsious. He did not want to think of the other possibility. However,as he galloped this morn he felt...something,a faint tug at his mind-but was unable to identify it before it had gone.
His legs burned as he ran,but he forgot his weariness as the wooden walls of Mittelmarch at last came in sight;putting on a fresh burst of speed. He was forced to a sliding stop though-sitting back on his haunches nearly-as closed gates loomed before him and he was forced to check hard. He backed up a few paces. The gate was lower than the walls,but still nearly ten feet-far too high for him to jump. Angrily he ramped and cavalad before the gates; rearing and smoting the ground in frustration to be thus thwarted. He had to get in! He obviously could not go under them-he was a horse,not a mole! The only option he had was to go through them...but..could he break through them? They were stout and strong. The silver stallion tilted his head,considering. He had to try.
Lashing out,he struck at the gates again and again with sharp hooves, raining a barrage of blows upon them. When he ceased,he was pleased to discover he had managed to put a dent in one. It wasn't much,but it was something and it gave him heart.
Pausing,the stallion swiveled his sculpted ears;catching the howl of a wolf and screech of eagle. Turning his head subtly afforded him the glimpse of an eagle's sihouette far behind above the forest. These two had been following him for some time,but he had been moving at too great a speed for them to catch him. They were still far behind. Shaking his fine head slightly,the silver stallion went back to work on the gates. They were barred from within,which made his attempt only more difficult.
Becoming frustrated,the silver stallion ramped and reared;pawing at the ground and snorting. Rearing again,with a ringing,trumpeting neigh,he lashed out again and again at the gates;caring not who he woke so long as he got to Zaron and Nichtmar. He called out with his thoughts as well-though he knew none could hear him. Let me in! LET ME IN! Zaron,Nichtmar! Attend me at once!
Snorting,he pummeled the gate with thundering blows;rearing and neighing commandingly. Zaron! Nichtmar! I hope that they come soon. Every moment lost is one less spent searching for my lady and I do not want her in danger any longer than necesary if it is in my power to prevent it! Ceasing his assault on the gates,the stallion dropped to earth favoring a foreleg slightly-but continued loosing ringing neighs;hoping that someone would hear him soon and get him to Zaron and Nichtmar.
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Tatsumura Masamune
Moderator
Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on May 30, 2007 18:17:35 GMT -5
The figure entered the clearling outside of the gates of Mittlemarch. His speed was nearly blinding, though it became apparent as he came to a stop that it was not all in his own legs. A cold wind blew by fiercely as he stopped running to catch his breath. He looked around as he breathed deep, noticing the quite that was only broken by the sudden bashing and neighing of the horse.
He began to walk towards the horse, closing his eyes as he did. With each step closer, he began to make out a sound in his head. It was clutered, and mumbled, he could not understand it even as he got within 30 feet of the horse. As he stopped, the clutered sound was intense. It was from the horse, he knew it had to be, though he couldn't understand what it was trying to say.
The figure stopped some 10 feet away, watching the horse as it kicked at the gate. As he did, the eagle came down out of the sky, landing on the ground on the other side of the horse. It looked up at it as if it were sizing the horse up. The horse, easily several times larger then the eagle seemed to pay no attention to it as it leaped up to the figure's shoulder.
The silouette of a wolf appeared on the edge of the clearing. It's muscles tense and it breathed heavy from the constant chase. It walked up the figure, sitting down beside him, panting heavily. The figure looked down at the wolf, chuckling as he began speaking once again in his native tongue, "Your late." The wolf looked up and growled at him as if to say, "You didn't do such a good job yourself."
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