"You'd think the Templars could handle a group of vampires"

"for some reason I doubt that's all there is to it"

"of course it isn't if we're involved"

The two left the hall after the others, much like with Valion there was nothing in the city for the two but rather than stand around till morning they decided that scouting ahead would be a better idea. Aslatiel had seen Tyr leave with the other watcher, it likely meant one of two things and neither Rakuyo or Asla felt like getting into trouble for interrupting them. Instead they left a message for her saying that they went ahead and would await the rest of the group at the pass to king's gate.

They left the keep shortly after and headed down through the city, largely ignored by just about everyone on the way. They split up at one point, Aslatiel going to get supplies for the trip and Rakuyo went to get horses. Aslatiel had little trouble but the stable keep seemed reluctant to take business from Dark elves, but as business was still business he begrudgingly took the money and Rakuyo left with two horses.

once both were done they met up again outside the city and set off.

Karl just went along with Glodin and Kaathe, meeting with Sunderland and then going off with Glodin and Kaathe to get a drink.
Along the way Karl takes in the sights of Dustorne. Upon reaching the tavern Karl sits at the bar and orders a pint of mead.
"Well mates, we'll be off to kill vampires soon." A dark smile creeps across Karl's face, he hated the undead and the daemonic, and killing vampires was a great way for him to express this.

Tyr took note of the security in place over Marcus' room. Before now she might have seen it as a bit of overkill but considering the current state of things, this was more than acceptable. Once inside it became clear the need to keep this room under lock and key. "By the gods, the tower would be put to shame", she said as she followed Marcus to the table. Taking a seat she found herself somewhat relieved upon hearing Marcus name every espionage countermeasure on the list. "The Ocular. That's my business. Even if we needed reassignment, it wouldn't require the entire order to return to the island. We could easily send ravens or a courier as we've always done. I don't know, perhaps its just the years getting to me, but I feel that our absence has allowed these creatures to gain a foothold. Yes the Templars can fight them but they are to defend and hunt the immediate threats. Our jobs are to eliminate much bigger enemies before they even show themselves to the world", Tyr got up from the chair and walked over to the window, staring out into the night with the only illumination outside of the city being the moon accompanied by the beautiful ribbons of arcane light. "You know, there is a scholar back on the island who's named these the aura lights. I think it's a terrible name but he's determined to have it be the official name", with a sigh she moved away from the window and leaned against the wall beside it. "I often think of everything that's changed, after the war, there is a lot we don't know about now. By the gods, I'm here with a woman who didn't exist in this world five years ago. A whole city of people live under the sea and a whole new continent lies to the south. It makes me wonder how much good are we. This is practically a whole new world with new enemies we've yet to face. That and the fact our new Ocular trusts us about as much as a whore trusts a client who fucks before paying...", Tyr took a deep breath before getting off the wall and looking towards Marcus. "I don't know, I suppose what I'm saying is maybe the order isn't good enough. Maybe its time for me to give up this life...apologies, I've been going on about all this like a bitter bard. How've you been? We've not spoken in some time as I recall. Secret ambassador for the order to Evelyn Sunderland must have its perks". Tyr tried her best to change the subject. She knew she could talk to Marcus about it but if this was all they'd talk about then they'd lose their minds.

"Tabetha Lockwell? Yes, I remember her. I still have her seal that she left behind tucked away somewhere. I'm afraid I have not heard anything from her either."

Evelyn paused thoughtfully. "When we last spoke, she mentioned that she had not paid respects to her late mother. There was also a mention of a gift from her mother but she did not elaborate any further."

Aenwyn tilted her head slightly. "If she went to pay respects to her mother, then the only logical place where she'd have to go would be ruined city Kal'ras. After all, that is where she grew up. I don't think I'll find much there considering how much time passed, but it is the only plausible lead we have on her."

Evelyn nodded. "For now, focus on the task at hand. We can consider our next course of action regarding Talmaria once the vampires in the vicinity are wiped out. As for the report, I believe it is here. Take a look at it for yourself."



"Have you any ideas what blood moons are and this prophecy the man mentions?" Evelyn asked.

"I'm not sure but it obviously has something to do with the moon. Perhaps it is related to the phases of the moon? There are some who say that at certain phases of the the veil between the supernatural and our reality becomes thinner. There is a belief that working rituals at the time of different phases of the moon can bring about physical or psychological change or transformation. There was once a brief time where a minority of the Wood Elves worshiped the moon but that hasn't been in practice for the past two or three centuries."

Aenwyn paused. "Sorry was I rambling? I sometimes lose myself when I talk. It's a pity the man they found escaped. Perhaps he'd have more information. What worries me more is that these entries mention nothing about seeing an elf. Normally, there'd be patrols along the borders and our relationships with Humans are friendly for the most part. Has our our numbers diminished so greatly that we cannot enforce the borders?"

@TheDarkTemplar

Marcus rubbed his chin idly as he digested Tyrs words, spoken in complete confidence and trust in the one place likely on the planet where she could speak them without fear.
The two had bonded over the years with their mutual respect for the order and each other's unique skills, but lately the two of themy had come to the same alarming conclusion that the watchers were being purposely dragged through the mud. Their suspicions rooted on the new figure that had taken, Marcus was loathe to say 'appointed', the High Ocular.

Her last comment about his life here and her own life caught him a tad off guard. Tyr give up?

"I'm not so sure finding another way is wise. Like me, I fear this way of life is all you know. Personally.." Marcus shook his head sadly, "I can't think of anything else in this world that I would rather devote myself to. Your fears rest with my own on this I'm sure."

Marcus took a booklet from one of the many shelves bursting with unnamed or unmarked books hand written by him and tossed it gently on the table. It was a small tome, maybe 40 pages of filled material, but it highlighted every fear or doubt he has come across concerning the order.

"I don't have any proof. I never knew the Ocular, but we knew Theo. Both of them were fiercely intelligent. I think they wanted this man in power not because he would unite us.." Marcus' face went cold as he prepared himself to voice his heretical doubt out loud. "I think the former Ocular wants us, the watchers who serve the realm and not a lord, to break ties and destroy our old home. Rebuild it for the good of all.."

Marcus was rarely a person to doubt himself but the way his usually resolute shoulders sagged, it was all too obvious that the thought of what he proposed was an overwhelming task even to just imagine.

"That is my thought. What does your heart tell you?

@ShaggyDoo0@Snarfulblast

Karl, Glodin, and Kaathe were in the tavern, where they sat and drunk and conversed. Karl spoke to both the dark elf and the dwarf about his excitement for the upcoming mission. Kaathe knew of Karl's hatred of evil and the like. It wasn't as if the guy had kept it a secret, after all. Truth be told, though, Kaathe had a feeling that many who had fought in the war held similar feelings. After all, the 'Dead God' had brought about so much death, destruction, and misery that it was understandable that many would harbor hatred for even the most docile of werewolf pups. Vampires would probably be killed no matter who it was,or what they had to say.

Kaathe had waited for his rum for quite some time. Glodin and Karl got their immediately, but it seemed that the people treated him just like he thought they would. No kindness, nor respect. It was to be expected, what with the current situation. Still, it was no problem for him. That is, until it finally arrived. When Kaathe's drink finally reached him, he knew something was wrong. It smelled horrible, and familiar. It was the smell that one would normally find off the beggars that sat around in large cities, hoping that someone would be kind enough to spare them some loose change or a crumb of bread. It was the smell of piss and spit. He knew that they weren't trying to be funny. The faces they gave when they looked at him told him that much. To drink it would bring them satisfaction, and to spill it would give them reason enough to kick him out. Either way, Kaathe sighed. It seemed that he wasn't as thirsty as he thought.

Disgusted with what they had attempted to serve him, Kaathe simply spent the rest of the time watching as his two comrades laughed and conversed...Comrades. That was something he never thought he'd call them again. Former Knights of the Dawn Covenant, together again, and waiting to fight horrible creatures once more...

Kaathe chuckled at the thought, looked down, and closed his eyes...He imagined how the others, both alive and dead, would be if they were there with them. Most would be laughing and listening, maybe even telling some of their own stories, intentions, and jokes. Some would be waiting to bring the piss-drunk fools back to the Inn to rest up for the next day's mission. Others would be probably out preparing themselves. He could think of some of them at the moment. Tabetha would probably be one of the least drunk of the group, commenting, and telling her own stories, and whatnot. She was a captain in and of herself, after all. Landeel would probably be sitting, calmly listening to every word, and gently drinking as the others went on. He's probably with his sister, protecting the masses, etc. etc.

Ruinil would have been sitting near her lover, or otherwise away from the rest of the group. She had disappeared. Madelyn would probably be in a drinking contest. Another missing person. Halen Vayne would be drinking off in the corner until someone came over there and brought him to the rest. Nowhere to be found. Camilla Thorton would be scolding those who had already drunk too much. Hasn't been seen since the end of the war. Aundair. Unknown. Taegan. Unknown. Abigail. Unknown. Jeremiah, Donovan, Lucien, Lloyde. All missing. Henry...Missing.

Cythlla Lorry...

"...Missing..."

Gone without trace, and a clue to her whereabouts yet to be found. Kaathe didn't chuckle. He didn't make a sound. He as deathly quiet.

Tyr couldn't help but feel a sense of relief as she and Marcus spoke. For the first time since being called to Feldorne she felt at ease, able to speak her mind and let her guard down. The thought of being someone ele, a different life where she wasn't a bringer of death. As much as she wanted it, she couldn't create the image in her mind. She couldn't see a home in the countryside, she couldn't see herself and a family of her own. Every time she tried to imagine life outside The Order her mind only depicted herself during the war. For a while the Reaver was lost in her mind until Marcus' words brought her back. To destroy The Overseers and forge it anew? Such an act would shake the world at its foundation if not destroy it completely. "Marcus do you realize what you are saying? The Overseers have held this world together since the founding of The Dawn Covenant. To even attempt this could result in the deaths of everyone we've come in contact with. You've seen The Ocular's tactics, he would see Loringrad burn if it meant keeping a secret. He'd kill us then our friends then the royals in Farendar, just to ensure our ideals are buried with us", Tyr sighed as she leaned against the table. As much as she hated the current state of The Order, she knew what Marcus was suggesting was suicide. At this point in time things were fragile, the spheres of influence and the balance of order was so frail that to simply whisper ill intent could shatter all.

"I want change, just as much as you if not more. I just do not see a way to it without death and destruction and I saw enough of that five years ago...after my work in Talmaria is finished, I'll return here. We can see where we stand from there", Tyr headed for the door, opening it before turning back to face Marcus. "It was good to see you, Marcus. Hopefully I'll be back soon", Tyr closed the door behind her, heading back to her chambers she couldn't help but feel like things were about to change.

---

The Pirate Queen strode through the halls of Dustorne Castle. Her eyes darting every which way to get a glimpse of every aspect of this intriguing structure. As she explored the halls she found various paintings of the members of house Sunderland as well as more of the painted glass windows. "Why don't we have any of this back home?", she thought to herself as she made her way to a large wooden door with ornate carving along the edges. Pushig it open and sticking her head through she found a library with a lounge at the far end. Slowly she stepped towards the lounge, trying to be as quiet as she could as if she was forbidden to break the silence.

Once she stood before the lounge area she couldn't help but feel tired. The large chair which sat across from the couch looked so inviting with the light from the nearby fireplace illuminating it with a warm glow. As she approached, she couldn't help but notice the tapestry which hung above the fireplace. The artwork depicted a heavily clad warrior who rode a mighty war horse. His spear had pierced the heart of a large winged beast just as fire spewed from its mouth. Iris couldn't help but gaze at the tapestry until a voice from beside her broke the silence. "That would be Sir Frederick 'The Beastmaster', my father told me he was my great uncle", Evelyn stood beside Iris, staring curiously at the tapestry just as she was. "They called him 'The Beastmaster'? So if I had to guess, this is a picture of one of his hunts. That's a dragon, right?", the Sireni didn't have dragons prior to The Convergence, now they loved in a world where all manner of beasts such as this roamed. "Indeed it is, a fire dragon that terrorized the hinterlands until Sir Frederick slew it. Unfortunately the tapestry doesn't tell of the injuries he sustained in this battle. The poor man lost his sword arm as a result and new fought again"

"How is anything standing with monsters like that running around?", Iris began to develope a fear of the sky as she imagined herself and the group being attacked by one of those things. There'd be no Sir Frederick there to help them. "I wouldn't worry too much about dragons, they've been hunted to near extinction. Some believe to be gone from this world entirely. Men like Sir Frederick are responsible for their endangerment, he was a prominent dragon hunter back in his time"

"Well thank you, Sir Frederick", Iris mumbled in surprise.

"I noticed your interest in the stained glass in the court. I take it you're unfamiliar with Miras' history"

"I don't deny it, you don't get much culture outside of foreign treasures when piracy is your trade"

"Well then, would you care for a history lesson ?", Iris' eyes widened at the thought of learning about the war from a veteran but was quickly reminded of her group's departure in the morning. It would be a long time before she'd get to learn about this world and it's history other than from the short references of her comrades. "I got time"

---

The next morning Tyr was already at the stables in the mercenary disguise. The sun was just starting rise and she'd be expecting the others to fall in soon enough. It wasn't long before Evelyn and Iris exited the castle to meet Tyr. Both the Lady Commander and The Pirate Queen's eyes wore dark circles around them as she yawned upon approach. "I see you two are well rested", Tyr commented with a smirk which was met with the unappreciative looks of both Evelyn and Tyr. "Don't forget who's castle you're in, Watcher. I can still have you *yawn* put in irons", Evelyn retorted with what little energy she had left.

"For your information, I happen to be a Reaver now"

"What? I thought you were an Overseer. No one tells me anything around here...say, where is everyone?"

"They'll be here soon enough if they know what's good for them"

"If I knew what was good for me I wouldn't be here in the first place." Karl was the first to arrive, being the early riser he is. He had spent the previous night drinking with Glodin and Kaathe. He went off in a drunken rage at the people who where treating Kaathe like he was trash, and he probably would've killed someone had Kaathe told him it was fine and he didn't care what the people thought of him. The three of them talked about friends gone or missing late into the night until they all went off to their separate accommodations. He hadn't the need to change clothes, he already looked like a mercenary. He stood leaning against one of the sides of the stables, a ghost of a smile played about his mouth. "But then again, if I knew what was good for me, I wouldn't be me." He pushes himself off the wall and walks up to his mount for the journey, "So when are we leaving, my arm's twitching to kill some undead." A sinister smile is smeared across Karl's face and his eye is burning with a look of vengeance and hatred.

To anyone who knew him, Karl's body language would be a true testament to what the war against The Dead God really cost. Before the war and during most of it Karl was a happy go lucky guy, but eventually the entire thing got to him and he not only nearly lost his mind but his life. If it weren't for his friends and comrades Karl would have lost more than his arm and eye.

Draco was walking towards Tyr, when a stumbling man, his mind damaged from previous fights, had made an entrance. "The war was quite a battle indeed, I wasn't that involved but even I know the casualties." He said as he strolled pass Karl. He grabbed his horses face and stared it in his eyes, smiling softly, "Horses eyes sees all war, and it looks like, this horse will see yet another..." He commented as he sat up on it, "Draco here, ready to leave when possible."


Xamar couldn't remember a time he felt so awake, alive, pulsing with energy. After seeing Jarg, Xamar's been active. He spent his night training, it was remote where he was, but he spent all night perfecting his styles. Xamar, for the first time, rushed to the take off point. He ran through the streets at a fast pace, before jumping to the roofs. He went over and under various obstacles on the roofs until he jumped further off the building, certain death awaiting at his arrival to the ground below. Xamar smiled, raising his arms out wide, his cloak taking all the wind force and slowing him down to an almost gliding pace. He touched down on the ground soft and dashed once again. Xamar was here, eyes turned to him as he landed on the ground next to them, sweat dripping from his forehead, "I'm here!"

@Snarfulblast@Hippo AF@TheDarkTemplar

"From a distance, your company seemed relatively sane, but now that I'm forced to look more closely, I see that they're every bit as idiotic as most others in the world."

The dark elf walked over to those waiting to get going. His crossbow was on hanging on the belt against his hip, his dagger beside it, and he held his spear over his shoulder. It was the same as before. He looked at the horses, and counted them. He remembered how many there were traveling in this little group.

"I will say this, though. I'm surprised that you allowed me a horse for transportation. At least I won't have to run this time.

Many years ago, when the Dawn Covenant was just starting to rise again to face the 'Dead God', There was a mission that they had to deal with that had ended with Kaathe losing two of his original weapons. Prior to that, someone had forgotten to provide him with a horse, and he refused to sit with on one with anyone else, so he chose to another option: Running. He wasn't mad at anyone for that, he chose to run on his own. The only reason Kaathe mentioned it at all was to make an attempt to remind Karl of their little bet from way back when. He never did find out who won.

In any case, Kaathe's first actual opinion on the Overseers in front of him were based on what he saw. One was a seafarer with the type of personality befitting a seafarer. Another was Karl. Yet another was man who looked as if he hadn't gotten a wink of sleep, and spent the entire night training. The last one that had come before Kaathe was a human that just smelled of some sort of evil.

Kaathe chuckled. The only two that seemed to have any sense in them were the Captain and the leader of this group of Overseers. The dark elf looked to Evelynn, and instinctively kneeled before her.

"I apologize for my lateness, Captain. My sense of priority has changed over the years."

Kaathe, realizing that he was kneeling, picked himself back up, and looked at the scene before him. It was just like the years before. Their mercenary armor was a bit ragged-looking, but aside from that, the scene reminded him of Dawn Covenant.

"I guess if I am to travel with this lot, I should make some sort of formal introduction, though I'm sure I'll have to do the same thing again when the others arrive."

Kaathe gave a gentle smile.

"I am Kaathe Oolacile. A former Templar of the Dawn Covenant, and somehow a hero of the war against the Dead God."

With that, Kaathe simply walked over to a spot, and sat down.

Aenwym waited for Evelyn to reply to her theory but there was nothing. An uncomfortable silence filling the room growing by the minute. Finally Aenwyn spoke again.

"I'll leave you to your thoughts Lady Evelyn. Seeing as I am the only one who read the entries, I'll go and tell the others of what I've learned tomorrow. I'll leave the journal entries over here. Good night."

Aenwyn left the room and headed for her quarters. It was an exhausting day and there was so much to think about. So many more questions were raised than answered after reading the journals. Noticing that her window was open and that tonight was particularly chilly, Aenwyn went over to close them. She cast a gaze at the pale moon. It was partially obscured by the evening clouds.

"Blood moons huh?"

She closed the windows and laid down on her bed, quickly drifting into a dreamless sleep.

The next day after eating breakfast and gathering her belongings, she met with the others at the stables. Their horses were already awaiting. It was only a matter of waiting for everyone to arrive.

"Morning everyone. Are we ready to leave? Just to confirm, our mission is to gather reconnaissance on the vampires and it's at our disgression to fight them correct?"

@TheDarkTemplar

Marcus snorted from behind the group of women at the thought of anyone putting Tyr in irons.. again. If it hadn't been for that stunt with Argus and his dwarven flask, it was all too likely that the Watcher would have killed the Dwarf or simply disappear. There wasn't a great deal most folks could do about it. Despite being one of the most powerful figures in the world, even Sunderland might be hard pressed to catch the foxs tail here. Not that he wouldn't get a laugh out of it before springing her from the holding cells.

Again.

Approaching in his full traveling gear, rifle on his back and sidearm at his hip, Marcus looked exactly the same as he had five years ago at the wars conclusion. The only notable difference besides the rifle was the leather tome he kept in his jacket and the slender rapier at his hip. His previous sword had been shattered and discarded a few years back during a rather important duel between an old comrade and himself. It had been a draw, but he had never gotten the means to replace the obsidian sword again.

"Miss Sunderland, I will be leaving with Tyr. There are many things to discuss and not enough time in the city to discuss them. I hope you will give me leave to continue my work."

(Small collab between @LiverisGood and OtomostheCrazy)



Kaathe looked at the latest few arrivals. One was a familiar face, while the other was someone he had recognized as part of Karl's initial group. He hadn't seen her much, but a bit of eavesdropping had allowed him to gather a bit of a first impression on her.

"It seems that you've been paying attention. Though, I doubt mere reconnaissance is all that will take place."

Kaathe looked up at the Wood Elf. He raised an eyebrow, and spoke again.

"And who would you be?"

Aenwyn gave a small smile at the dark elf. "Me? I'm just a scholar whose accompanying the others. Aenwyn Loradi. Just recording anything of interest. That and I know quite a bit of magic. You don't quite know who I am, but I do know of you. Tabetha spoke of you Kaathe Ooacile though this is the first time we formally introduced ourselves."

"Tabetha, hm?"

Kaathe remembered Tabetha well. He didn't really interact with her much, but then again, he didn't do that with many people in general. Still, he remembered poking a bit of fun at her with those rumors that others had once passed around. Something about betraying the teachings of the Order or something like that. He was amused to find that those rumors weren't entirely unfounded.

The Dark Elf looked at Aenwyn with a gentle grin.

"And just what exactly did that girl speak of me?"

"What word did she used to describe you? Aloof. Yes, I think she described you as aloof. She said you were very quiet and you kept everything to yourself as if you had no attachments to the world. You were simply there, rarely speaking with others. She found it hard to talk to you and she felt sad in some ways. A lonely existence wandering, wandering with no purpose, never reaching out to others. She wondered what you were fighting for, let alone living for?"

Aenwyn walked closer towards Kaathe until she was but a breath away from his face. "I wonder how much of that is true? She did like to embellish her stories." With that, Aenwyn turn around and began to pace back and forth.

"How much longer are we waiting?" she said to no one in particular.

Kaathe silently gazed back at the woman when she went up close to him. To most others, she would have been uncomfortably close, but Kaathe didn't care much for personal space. Especially when it was constantly invaded by monsters and people anyway.

When Aenwyn turned, Kaathe closed his eyes and let out a dry chuckle. She, just like many others before her had attempted to get to him, or at least understand him through outer means. Had she done this to his younger self, she'd probably be dangling a reckless, violent Dark Elven boy upside-down in the air by his feet. Aenwyn asked when they were to make their way, and Kaathe responded by saying,

"Soon enough. Glodin is going to get drunken arse scolded, but he'll get here soon enough. He never lets himself get left behind. Look, there he is right now."

Kaathe pointed to the pride-filled Dwarven warrior. It seemed everyone that was going was present now.

"Nonsense, Kaathe, you answered the call when The Order needed you. I cannot ask you to devote yourself to another crusade. You may accompany the Watchers but know you are not bound to them", Evelyn glanced at her left gauntlet, the numerous notches marked each of their comrades they'd lost five years ago. They were elves, dwarves, and humans but they were family and once again she was sending her family off towards danger. Turning to Tyr she spoke with words carried on a voice of a stern yet caring nature.

"Miss Sunderland, I will be leaving with Tyr. There are many things to discuss and not enough time in the city to discuss them. I hope you will give me leave to continue my work."

"Of course Marcus, your skills are of more use in the field than in a castle court", Evelyn replied before looking over the group for the final time. "You all know the task which you've been given. Locate the vampires near King's Gate, gather whatever information you can find on where they call home, and report back here. My forces will then establish a forward encampment at Kearvund Keep before moving onwards to eliminate the threat once and for all. This would normally be a simple reconnaissance mission but you are headed into Talmaria. We've not had contact with anyone since the war's end. Those forests may be home to new horrors we've yet to see"

"Don't worry, Eve. I'll take care of them", Tyr replied with a grin.

"It seems you're about to spend some time in my shoes", Evelyn smiled before saluting the watchers as they rode off.

It did not take the party long before they reached the valley of King's Gate. It was here the armies of the first men forged an accord with the wood elves in the first great war. This valley, the wide split in the massive mountain pass which stretched down the length of the continent, marked the borders between the realms of Farendar and Talmaria. At its center stood Kearvund Keep, one of the oldest standing structures of man. Completed sometime after the end of the war between man and mer, the keep stood tall and proud despite showing signs of its age. Kearvund had been built before the invention of the modern siege engine, leaving it vulnerable at certain points but despite this disadvantage, the keep was still manned by Knights of the Dawn. In fact, prior to the war, Kearvund was formerly under the command if Evelyn Sunderland and to this day her family's flag still flies over the walls.

Tyr led the party away from the keep, trying to keep them out of sight as they passed into Talmaria. While they did have disguises, she didn't want to risk their cover being blown if they were put under careful scrutiny. "The nearest elven settlement is Rilas'maril. We'll head there, observe the area and set up camp there if it's safe. If we see vampires there then we'll back up towards King's Gate. The journey should be another hour or so", Tyr spoke with a low and serious tone as their horses strode between the tall trees of the eternal wood. They'd past the scorched lands around King's Gate some time ago and now finally they saw Talmaria for it's true natural beauty.

The entire ride to Rilas'maril felt wrong to Tyr. The whole time she felt as though they were being watched by something wrong, something that shouldn't be here. The turning gave her gifts, and she knew there was something out there but she couldn't determine what it was. Whatever sort of entity that stalked them knew to hide itself from her. It was intelligent.

After an excruciatingly tense ride, the group arrived at Rilas'maril. The Talmarian settlement was known to have been carved from the brightest whitestone and decorated with colored glass, now it was held within the tight clutches of the forest with vines and other plant life growing over everything. Rilas'maril was a small elven settlement; about twenty houses, a town hall, smithy, bowyery, market center, inn, stables, archery range, town armory, and a number of ruined structures. Tyr listened and watched carefully for signs of another presence. While she couldn't tell what it was that was watching them, she could tell where it was. The direction of the town was clear but further southwest she could sense the presence of their unknown stalker.

"Everyone, set up camp in the town hall. Take the horses to the stables then see if there is any food at the inn. I'll take first watch tonight, I need one other with me", Tyr gave off all this as she dismounted from her horse, leading it over to the stables while still trying tk get a sense of what was out there.

"If it's the damned Kest I swear to the gods"

Iris already rode her horse over to the stables, she wasn't too keen on riding a horse, she preferred to be atop a ship deck. Tying the reigns to the post she returned to the town hall with her bags, dropping them off in a corner before opening it up to take out her bedroll. Once her corner was set up she headed back out and stood at the village square, pondering which of the ruins she'd check out first. She had to think fast as eventually they'd all be searched and she wasn't going to pass up an opportunity to get her hands on good exotic loot.

"I can take as many watches as needed. And no I won't get tired, one I'm an elf, and two I'm a trained solider. And my magic is most effective against undead and daemons, which is what we came here for. To 'investigate' vampires, which are undead." Karl was quiet for most of the ride to there current location, he set his equipment in a corner near the door of the town hall. Having already lead is mount to the stables, Karl sat on the top of the stairs looking out across the abandoned town. He had the feeling like everything they were doing was being watched. He couldn't tell what it was but he had a few ideas.

Glodin didn't wake up late, in fact he woke up at dawn, but procuring new repairing tools and materials took much longer than he thought it would. When the dwarf finally met up with the rest of the group he quickly packed his horse up and strapped his pack behind the saddle. Glodin listened to the briefing from Evelyn as he readied himself. Just as they were about to set off, Glodin walked over to Evelyn and hugged her. "Miss Sunderland, one of these days we will have time to chat and talk about days gone past. Take care, lass."



For most of the ride Glodin rode near Tyr and Iris, as he knew their eyes were far better than his. During the trip, Glodin unbraided his beard and combed through it with his fingers. The whole trip he was lost in thought, only talking when he was spoken too, which was odd for him as he was normally chatty and cheery when on the road. His eyes had seen many things and many friend's deaths. He remembered their first battle in the woods, against Krovah and his minions, the kest hive and his fallen comrades, and the countless battles after.



Glodin placed his things down and unpacked his repairing equipment in a comfortable spot in the City Hall. "Alright, if you have any gear that needs tending too, just let me see it and I'll have it looking brand new before we head out in the morning." Glodin said to the group as a whole before setting himself down and doing some routine maintenance on his weapons and armor.

Upon arriving on the settlement, Aenwyn took note of the overgrowth of vegetation. There wasn't a single soul in sight and the woods surrounding the village felt foreboding.

She lead her horse towards the stables and set down some of her belongings inside the town hall before heading back outside. She saw Tyr gazing towards the woods. Karl was sitting by on top of the stairs, also keeping watch. Evidently, he volunteered to take first watch with Tyr.

Aenwyn was between the two of them when she spoke "Both of you felt it too? There is something disquieting about these woods. I can't believe I'm saying this but after living nearly a century in these lands, this place feels...alien. You think any of the inhabitants left any clues behind as to their whereabouts?"

Draco observed every memeber of the group carefully. The group had grown in size, this meant... more victims. Draco was at the back of the group, the twisted thoughts of blood and betrayal swirled in his head, he could imagine the feeling of the knife driving its way into their bodies. Pushing past skin, digging into the organs, the warm feel of blood trickling down their body, as their life drains away from their eyes. The thought caused Draco to smile, a smile so sick and evil, a hidden meaning to those who look. Draco calmed down, composing himself, continuing to walk in silence.


Xamar wasn't focused on the travel, but instead focused on his own problems, Jarg. How could he be alive for so long? Xamar was frustrated at the thought of Jarg walking around without cuffs. Xamar looked to the sky, the sound of battle rang in his head...



Join me Xamar, together you know no one could stop us, the Dead God is the one true power in this world... Xamar was pinned, Jarg brooding over him, Xamar had to react to quickly. Xamar shot ground beneath him, both Jarg and Xamar were sent sailing through the sky. "Jarg, you are blinded by this madness. You ca-" He was cut off by Jargs scream, "Blind!? You are too naive Xamar. The Dead God has given me purpose, and you." Xamar had enough, he dashed forward, a sweeping kick towards Jarg legs at an attempt to knock him over. Jarg hopped ever so slightly over the leg, he came crushing down, pinning the legs to ground and causes pain to shoot through his body. Jarg's hand started to glow, Xamar quickly dodged, Jarg's bolt of lightning shot passed Xamar's head, exploding the ground beneath them. Xamar reached up, punching Jarg's gut hard, sending him spiraling back. Slowly rising, fire burned at Xamar's feet in a ring, the fire crept up Xamars body. His voice shifted to a more dark booming voice, "You... Jarg... Are done worshiping this God. You, someone who was so renowned for his skills, could turn so evil. You are tainted, and that taint is like an infection, spreading among others, so now, I'll cure you and everything around you!"

@Hippo AF@LiverisGood@Snarfulblast@ShaggyDoo0@TheDarkTemplar

The ruined area was enough of an omen to assure Kaathe that whatever tragedy that had happened before would probably attempt to rise again. Leaving the horses out in the open seemed like a bad idea, as beasts of the night tend to feed on those quickly. Still, it wasn't his call. These Overseers were built up to be skilled in their own right. A few fights and a bit of walking shouldn't hinder them all that much. Still...The settlement was certainly unsettling. Emptiness and the feeling of dread surrounding the area were the main cause of that. The other cause was how these people all hadn't done anything about the human that emanated evil intent. Maybe they didn't notice, or maybe they needed proof before anything. It didn't matter much. Consequences will be suffered as Fate dictates it.

Karl, as usual, was waiting for the chance to smite the undead. Glodin had set up shop, ready to help anyone maintain their weapons. Xamar was looking up into the sky, his eyes clouded with memory. Iris was doing something on her own, and Tyr was taking a watch. Aenwyn made a comment about the area, and asked if whether or not the previous residents had left any clues.

"If you wish to investigate, I'd recommend going with a partner. Places like this tends to allow unsettling things to sneak up on you. Take Karl or Glodin with you. They'll probably help you a lot more than the rest of us. Or you can go with Iris. I saw her eyeing up some of the ruins earlier."

Kaathe turned his attention away in order to wander about. He knew that events would arrive soon enough. He may as well walk around as he waited. Fate apparently wanted him to speak with an evil being, so he had been lead over to Draco. Kaathe gently chuckled as he took a seat on the ground. The dark elf leaned his spear over his shoulder, and looked to the human. Since the war, he had seen all manner of madness and insanity. He could see the perverted darkness in the man's eyes. The smile, gentle like his own, was also a hint to that of ill thought.

"Waiting for the right moment, are we?" asked Kaathe.

Night had arrived and with it came the impenetrable darkness of the expansive forest. The only light besides the fire within the town hall were the fireflies which danced out in the distance and the occasional plant which glowed gently from its petals. Tyr was sitting by the fire, watching it dance before her as it's warm light comforted her against the cool forest air. The day had come to a close rather quickly once her group had arrived Rilas'maril. The horses had been led and locked up in the stables and their supplies moved to the town hall. Their search of the town proved that if there were elves living here once, they were long gone. Not a single soul was left and they left little behind, like they were running from something. If it was from the vampires, they'd be dealt with soon enough. If it was something else...Tyr was about done with fighting end bringers.

Iris was outside by herself, she stood at the outskirts of the the town, looking out into the darkness with those bright blue eyes of hers. The Sireni world had oceans, deep and vast. Some cities were situated at the bottom of the deepest trenches and so the Sireni had developed excellent vision for dark environments. Even though she was watching the woods it wasn't her shift. This was a far inland as she had ever been and she couldn't help but feel somewhat vulnerable yet at the same time curious. She recalled her history lesson with Evelyn the night before they departed from Dustorne, about the arrival of man on Miras and the following war with the wood elves. An image of a tall, muscular human in heavy armor wielding a great axe came into her mind. The name of the first Human king whose name she couldn't pronounce standing before the elven lord. "So we passed through King's Gate, and now we are in Talmaria. I guess this is the second invasion, eh?", she thought to herself with a chuckle before being grabbed by someone out of the dark. From within the darkness Iris could see her attacker. He was a human, that much she was sure of but his face was obscured by a cloth mask. The man wore leather armor with metal shoulder pads and a cloak which came around one arm. His hand covered her mouth so she couldn't scream as he pinned her to the floor. From what the pirate queen could see, his only weapons were a sword and a dagger still sheathed. A shield was on his back but she couldn't make much out of it. "This'll be over quick, but it's more than you deserve", he whispered as he brought his sword up over Iris' heart. With her free hand she clawed at the man's eye, breaking his focus to move away her hand. In that instance, she managed to move her mouth open just enough to bit down on his hand, her fangs cut through the leather and punctured his skin, her venom began to flow through his veins as he grunted in pain. Pulling back his hand, Iris' fangs were still in the glove, pulling her up with him. Now free from under her attacker, she punched the man in his throat, leaving him gasping for air and in a great deal of pain. The man began trying to put some distance between himself and his victim but Iris wouldn't allow it. She lunged onto him, biting him when she could until there was enough venom in him to stop him from fighting back. Just as the man was about to die, another came to aid him. He and Iris fought on for a moment longer before Iris finally had a moment to call for help. She didn't have time nor the information to give a proper warning, with the split second she did have, she let out a scream her people are known for. A shrill, high pitched, and incredibly loud scream burst out from her for a moment. It was enough to alert the others. With that taken care of, Iris turned her focus back to the second attacker who was trying to render her unconscious. Punching her in the stomach, he tried to leave her vulnerable enough to incapacitate her before dragging her away. The Pirate Queen would have none of it as she finally managed to unsheathe a dagger she had on her, her swords lay back at camp. With a weapon in hand she went limp for a second, the sudden lack of resistance threw the man down on his back. Iris took the opportunity to get on top of him, her blade plunging into his chest over and over again while she bit down on his throat, tearing at the esophagus.

It wasn't long after Iris let out her scream did the other cloaked men reveal themselves, their forces outnumbered the group 3 to 1 as they charged forward as fast as they could to close the distance before the others knew what was happening. Tyr rushed outside so fast that the door she bolted through almost broke off its hinges.