The Love of the Elf - ( Ronyo Storm & Kaewyn Star )

[Ronyo Storm]

Love of the Elf
Based on Book III in the Story of the Wolf trilogy
Written by Ronyo Storm

 

[Ronyo Storm]

Cover Page
This Rp will be run based off the last of a series of books I’m writing. This page is to help anyone wanting to read the Rp to understand how it will run. The two who will be participating in the Rp, Myself and Kaewyn Star, have put many hours into creating this world you will read before you and the characters you will read about. Again this is still a work in progress so there may be a few hiccups along the way but nothing major. So to the reader I ask you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the story that will unfold before you.

-Ronyo Storm

 

[Ronyo Storm]

Cast Of Characters of Ronyo Storm
Note that some information is purposefully excluded from the character sheets at this time. These will be addressed in the story and I would not want to spoil them now.

Name: Wullf Maximas
Age: 24
Race: Lycon/Dragon half-breed
Weapons: Silver Dragon Sword
Magic: None
Description: Wullf stands close to seven feet tall, which is about average for Lycons. His fur is silver with touches of white around his muzzle, chest, hands, feet, and the tip of his tail. Wullf’s muzzle, one of the noticeable differences between Lycons, is slender and pronounced and his mouth is always crooked in a slight grin. His crystal blue eyes are startling when seen for the first time, and depending upon your nature that first meeting can be drastically different. Anyone who Wullf perceives as kind, honorable, or simply good natured will see those eyes as soft touches of a snow flake finding its way onto your nose. Those who would seek to harm another for malicious intent be it physically, verbally, or any way would see those eyes has the cold grip of death himself.

Passed Wullf himself, the Lycon always wears the leather tunic, gauntlets and leg guards of his father. These pieces of light flexible armor are forged from dragon skin and dyed as black as midnight and accented with bright silver. Around his waist Wullf wears his father’s sword belt, which bares the face of a silver dragon as the buckle. Wullf also wears either light tan pants or grayish blue pants, whichever is the cleaner at the time. His Silver Dragon sword is always strapped to his sword on his left hip.
Personality: Wullf tends to be an idealist and believes everyone has the potential for good. He carries a light heart and enjoys bantering among his friends, and is always looking for the opportunity for a horribly well placed pun. Wullf’s idealism also makes him stoic in his stance on anyone evil, and is more than willing to take on a villain. As much as his hope for good in everyone his teachers in the monk village taught him to understand when a person has gone beyond saving. When faced with a challenge Wullf will stand firm until the end and be the first on in and the last one out.
Biography: Wullf was raised by a group of traveling monks who found him alone among a battlefield of dead Lycons, dragons, and other odd creatures. The monks taught the young Lycon about right and wrong and how to respect all living things within the world of Sarigal. Once old enough Wullf set out to find out about his past and his family, and along the way ran into several interesting characters.
History of Wullf and his past exploits: Journey of the Wolf- Wullf tracks his family line to his birth place. Along the way he encounters the comical red elf Tiki who helps him find his way to the Wereterras. Once there Wullf meets the were-wolf shaman, Akamy, and the were-bear warrior Kodyak. Learning of his father’s legacy and history Wullf obtains his sword and black leather tunic. Soon after a Rebellion of the were-rats and were-boars arises. Wullf takes lead of the remaining Lycon nations of the were-wolves, were-bears, and were-cats. During the ensuing battle Wullf discovers the general of the rebels is a new creature that looks like a black dragon and an orc combined. After scattering the rebels Wullf decides to set off in search of his mother, and Akamy takes up the investigation about the new creature.

Knowledge of the Dragon- With the knowledge about his dragon mother, and his friend Tiki, Wullf begins gathering information. His search brings him back to the city of Dragon’s Den. From the city he encounters child hood friends Rhaia and Vensunt. After sometime Wullf travels to the port city of Last Stop to charter a ship to the island of silver, in the port city Wullf and Tiki meet the pirate Mist, who is part of a all female pirate band known by the Sea Gems. Traveling with the interpret women pirates Wullf reaches the islands of silver. On the main island Wullf discovers a clan of silver dragons along with a half-dragon named Silvur. Through the half-dragon Wullf learns of his mother and how Silvur is his brother. Also that Wullf’s sword was created from parts of his mother so that she would always be with Wullf and Silvur’s father and one day them. During the events a force of the creatures Wullf encountered at the Wereterras battle. These forces were lead by a Half-were-wolf named Twillight. Wullf leads an assault against the creatures and engages Twillight in combat. Outmatched Wullf comes inches from death but is saved by his brother wielding his sword made from a red dragon. Twillight escapes and leaves Wullf with more questions about this new creature and the one who leads them. After saying goodbye to dragon relatives Wullf return to the Wereterras with his brother Silvur.

Name: Tiki
Age: 45
Race: Red Elf
Weapons: bone Trident
Magic: none
Description: Tiki stands only about five feet five inches and bares the classic bronzed red skin of his people. His hair is a dark brown and in dread locks pulled up in a fountain towards the back of his head. The wily elf wears a animal fur vest and fur arm guards. Baggy red pants are tide tight at his waist and ankles with off white cloth, and a pair of hemp sandals finishes the good elf out.
Personality: Tiki is prone to, among other things; find the oddest way to get anything done. He also happens to be accident prone as well which creates some interesting situation for his long time traveling companion Wullf. Despite Tiki’s oddness he is fiercely loyal and always tries to put a smile on his friend’s faces.

Name: Silvur Maximas
Age: 24
Race: Dragon/ Lycon half-breed
Weapons: large two-handed Red Dragon sword
Magic: Silver Dragon breather weapon, spirit energy blast, and the fire abilities from his sword.
Description: Silvur looks like a Silver dragon standing on two legs and only seven and a half feet tall. His wings stay folded in most of the time and his tail kept close. Brown pants held with a thick leather belt are all Silvur wears for clothing. He does wear his sword belt strapped along his back that keeps his large sword snug between his wings and in easy reach.
Biography: Silvur is Wullf’s brother, twin brother, born only seconds before Wullf. Where Wullf was raised by monks who found him, Silvur was raised by the silver dragons of his mother’s clan. Silvur grew to be a strong dragon with fundamentals based on a true silver dragon’s beliefs.
Personality: Silvur is a serious individual with an odd since of humor. The half dragon loves to battle and enjoys making snide remarks against his opponents. Now that he’s with his brother he finds he can open up more and use his humor outside of battle. Silvur is always one to have a friends back even if he doesn’t completely agree with them.

Name: Mist
Age: 26
Race: Human
Weapons: Iron Metal Staff
Magic: none
Description: Mist wears a sleeveless white tunic that flaps loosely in the front to barely show off her chest. A red sash is tide firmly around her waist and allowed to hang to her knees. Tight brown pants and common navel boots end the spry young pirate’s attire. Mist’s hair is strawberry blonde held up in a tight pony tail that hangs to about her backside. Her eyes are deep green like the color of dark jade and her skin is bronzed from countless days at sea.
Biography: Mist was the first mate to the pirate captain Jade and her crew of all women. The crew of the Ladies Best Friend hunted down greedy merchant vessels that cared more for their coin purses then their customers, and slave ships filled with kidnapped girls to be sold to brothels. Mist led a fruitful life as the second in command until her crew took Wullf and Tiki to the Island of Silver. After the voyage Mist found herself fascinated by this Lycon so bound to find out about his past. After talking it over with her captain Mist made the decision to follow Wullf and learn more about him.
Personality: Mist is strongly independent but has learned to ask for help on occasion around Wullf and his odd friends. The pirate loves to cut up and have a marry time when time allows, and she’s not afraid to take any man on in a drinking contest and prides herself as being undefeated. Mist is a woman who gets what she wants and isn’t afraid to use all her wilds to get them, but always in a humorous way.

Name: Twillight
Age: unknown
Race: Lycon/Demon Half-breed
Weapons: the crescent blade known as Flesh Ripper
Magic: none known, but has a knack for alchemy
Description: Twillight stands seven feet tall and covered in thick black fur. His hands and feet are white tipped and his muzzle and tail tip grey. A large scar crosses the demon wolf’s left eye and another across the top of his muzzle. Twillight wears mythril shoulder and arm plate mail with a dark purple underling, his chest is left bare. Dark purple pants are held tight at the waist but loose in the legs, a Mythril belt cover his midsection and hold his devilish blade on his left hip. Mythril plated boots cover the Twillight’s clawed feet but make up for the fact by being dotted with spikes.
Biography: Not much is known of this being who seems to have deep rooted plans for Sarigal. He has revealed his origins as a half breed of Lycon father and demon mother. Twillight seems perplexed by the other half-breed he has encountered, Wullf. His skill with alchemy is proven in his creations of half orc half demon minions, however little is known of how he creates them. One thing is certain though, whatever he has planned can only spell doom.  

[Kaewyn Star]

Cast of Characters of Kaewyn Star

Name: Lena Highmoon
Age: 50 years old
Race: High Elf
Weapons: Lunar Bo-Staff made of Ash with a crescent moon decoration
Magic: Elemental Magic, master of fire and water
Description: Lena is a perfect example of everything a high elf should be. She is beautiful with long, silken hair the color of starlight, pale flawless skin, and crystal eyes. Her body is slim, curvaceous and muscular. She is graceful beyond compare and her nobility is present even in the air around her. She is humble, however, and kind, never thinking of herself as above anyone. Lena’s ability to control her magic came naturally and her disciplined focus helped her to succeed in whatever she undertook.
She wears a navy blue tunic that stretches to the ground with silver trim. It has two slits that travel up the sides of her garment, revealing her toned legs and giving her freedom of motion. The tunic is skin tight above the waist and considerably revealing with a low neckline, no sleeves, and some criss-cross straps for the back, but, being an elf, such things are common and thought nothing of because of their natural purity. A silver sash is tied around her waste and a silver circlet ascents the crescent moon tattoo on her forehead, proclaiming her nobility and family name.
Personality: Lena knows how to behave as a noble, but she also knows how to have a good time. Although she is often composed, her temper can sometimes flare up and be devastating to behold. She is strong willed and very independent.
Biography: Lena has lived her entire life in the shelter of the trees. She grew up as any elf did, learning about nature and its wonders, but also learning to communicate and befriend others. She was taught very young not to think of herself as above anyone. When she was ten years old she began learning about the history of her people and she was given a vague idea of the world outside of the trees. When she turned twenty, her magical abilities became apparent and her father began testing her abilities. She was a natural in elemental magic, and thus began her training as a mage. Thirty years passed in the blink of an eye and now Lena is old enough and eligible for marriage. A suitor is being sought for her now, but a perfect match is highly unlikely to be found among the uppity noble families of surrounding high elf dwellings.


Name: Lanselor Highmoon
Age: 250 years old
Race: High Elf
Weapons: Long sword made of the finest adamite
Magic: Premonition and Prophetic magic (very rare)
Description: An elegant and kind man with great respect from others. The air around him is serious and yet sometimes playful. He has sharp angular features set in a wise face. His body is toned and still vibrant with the youth of his people. He is dressed in navy blue pants, and only wears his matching tunic when on a diplomatic errand. A silver circlet rests upon his brow along side his crescent moon tattoo.
Personality: He is a diplomatic and peaceful man who wants nothing but the happiness and well being of his people. He has sacrificed a great deal in his past for the sake of others; his daughter, Lena, was his only selfish act. He is quicker to defend others than he is himself, and in return has many friends who would fight for him. His mind is thoughtful and quick, while his tongue is slow to move. He chooses his words wisely, and often says nothing at all.
Biography: He was born during troubled times and led a harsh life. His magic allowed him to see things he would rather have never known. These things changed the course of his life to try and save everyone. His sword was stained red with the blood of those whose horrible deeds couldn’t escape his subconscious. Controlling his visions was something that almost drove him mad. He made many friends as he saved those from impending doom, one of whom stayed by his side through all the trials he would face in the future. A strange comrade actually, a dragon named Pearl. Lanselor saved him as a hatchling and gained the creatures trust. For one hundred years the two could not be separated, and through all the bad times and the bloody times, they stayed together.
It wasn’t until Lanselor fell in love that things began to change. She helped him to see that life was not the most important thing in this world, love was. Life was indeed precious, but without love it was pointless. He soon began to control the thoughts that entered his mind and saw many paths of the future, not just the ones of horror.
One day his wife came to him telling him she was pregnant. Immediately he saw the future, the day of his daughter’s birth, and there, lay his wife dead from childbirth. He could not stop it, and instead of becoming resentful, he poured out his love for her. When Lena was born, he buried his wife and loved his daughter.
Now he rules his forest with devotion that has come from years of experience and a lifetime of doing without.


Name: Bindarian Darksun
Age: 100 years old
Race: High Elf
Weapons: A short sword and a dagger made of Mythril
Magic: It is unknown what his magical powers are. No one can recall ever seeing him use magic.
Description: A charming and handsome elf with a slyness about him that makes those around him drop their guard even without their knowledge. He always dresses the part of the rich noble with jewel adorned clothes and elaborate hair accessories.
Personality: A more pompous elf was never known as Bindarian. However arrogant he is, he is twice as smart. His knowledge is impressive, almost annoying. He knows he is always right and he finds pleasure in proving it. He is greatly accustomed to doing as he pleases and getting what he wants. He can be obsessive when he sets his mind to something, not even sleeping until he has his prize. Respect is only something he shows himself.
Biography: Bindarian became the ruler of his land when his father died. Now he rules it as he sees fit. He lives on the edge of the forest near mountains inhabited by dwarves who supply him with the jewels he so loves. Many elves frown on him for the way he seems to reject the natural way of living to his more “human” ideals.
He is an exquisite fighter and has won every challenge presented to him, only adding to his arrogance. Now he has his sights set on the daughter of Lanselor for his bride.


Name: Pearl
Age: No one knows exactly but close to 200 years old give or take twenty
Race: Dragon
Weapons: Teeth, claws, impenetrable scales… what more does a dragon need?
Magic: Golden Fire breath with some minuet arcane magic
Description: Pearl is a purely white dragon with huge feathered wings and a golden spiral horn protruding from his forehead. He has bright blue eyes that can be penetrating or comforting. He stands eight feet tall at his shoulders, twenty-five feet from nose to tail, and has a twelve foot wingspan.
Personality: Pearl is mostly serious and protective. He is a good defensive fighter and would give his life for his friend without a second thought.
Biography: Pearl spent most of his life with Lanselor Highmoon as his friend and comrade. They went through many troubling times together, but many good times as well. When Lena was born, Lanselor became much calmer and his focus turned more towards leading his people, but Pearl was still quite young and not ready to calm down. Pearl loved Lena from the first time he saw her, a spunky young elf with great skills who isn’t quite satisfied with her surroundings either. He was named her godfather and took up the responsibility to protect her when Lanselor couldn’t. Now there is an unworthy elf wanting her hand, and Pearl is willing to do whatever he can to make sure they don’t marry.  

[Ronyo Storm]

Prologue

The low lit atmosphere of the ruined castle was perfect for the creature lurking about. As the dark figure went to and from the many derelict room eyes watched him with trepidation and hoping he would not lash out in another rage. For as of late the dark figure had been coming up short on a new experiment that would change the face of Sarigal forever. Every time the procedure seemed to be working some unforeseen flaw would creep up and destroy the creation. This night would be different though, for the figure had found a potion that would increase his chance for success. A black fur covered hand poured the elixir down a tube that carried it to his soon to be creation. As the liquid spread throughout the beings body the limbs began to twitch.

A sinister smile crossed the muzzle of the creator until the limbs went from twitching to convulsing. The smile turned to a growl and the figure lashed out with an overly curved blade and took the not so living creation’s head off. Another growl sent that blade down onto the creature’s midsection and took it in half as well as the table it was laying on. The table and what remained of the experimental beast fell to the ground in a heap. Another growled escaped the enraged creator until he heard a small laugh. The large creature straightened and put his still clean blade away while he watched a shadow come almost into view.

“Another failure, whatever are you to do good Twillight?”

“Continue to call my action failings and we shall see how well you laugh with a hole in your neck,” The Lycon said in a carefree manner.

“If that happened where would you get your best information?”

“The right coin can always by the right information. Now what news do you bring me that may lighten my mood, and know it best be grand for my mood is quiet dark.”

“Then consider me the torch to set you right. I have found notes from a rather interesting…being that falls along the same alchemic path as yours. The notes give a way to help stabilize any, shall we say, unorthodox creation,” The man in the shadows hand flicked and sent a small metal tube from his hands.

Twillight caught it as if it had been handed to him, and opened the tube to reveal a scroll with odd writing and drawings, the smile returned to the muzzle.

“It seems I did well in not killing you today. We shall need to take care in this matter, or else my plans will be unveiled to soon. If that were to happen then I shall be testing upon your sorry corpse upon my table.”

“What table?”

Twillight couldn’t help by grin at the remark and that led his gaze to the heap lying on the ground. A sigh escaped the Lycon’s mouth and he snapped his clawed hand which brought out several odd creatures rushing to clean the mess. They seemed like orcs but even less intelligent, if it was possible, with spines coming from their brows skin closer to an ashy green then the sickly green of a real orc, and eyes blood shot red. Twillight straightened himself again and began to leave but turned to regard the man in the shadows once again.

“We have work to do and arrangements to make I think this will prove to be most entertaining,” The Lycon nodded towards the shadow but found he was nodding at nothing. Another grin crossed his muzzle, “I’m smiling too much today, I best be careful I may start to enjoy it,” With that the Lycon laughed and walked out leaving his successful creation to dispose of his not-so-successful one.

Twillight turned to regard his veiled comrade as if an afterthought, “Have you seen my new ally? I think I can come up with interesting new ideas for my next wave of warriors.”

With that the black furred Lycon led the way out onto one of the ruined castles many causeways connecting the four turret towers. The causeway they walked on also led to the main keep and the two spires. Half way to the other side Twillight pointed down into the castle courtyard at his “new ally.” The acrid stench could be smelt from where they stood. Twillight’s companion stepped back a bit then smiled at the site of a sleeping black dragon. Its back arched as it slumbered and dark leathery wings covered it body like a death shroud.

“How ever did you get such a beast to help you?”

“We have the same enemy, and as the saying goes; the enemy of my enemy is my friend.”

“Or his lunch.”

“I doubt our friend will have the need to feast on me or you for that matter. He seems to enjoy the idea I have in mind for his blood and I have something he wants.”

“What could you have that a dragon, a black for that matter, could want?”

“I have the secret to turning his old hide into something everlasting. Something to keep him going even after those large lungs stop moving.”

“Lichdom, how…”

“It’s not important, what matter now is our new target. We must begin preparations at once,” and with that the two shared a smile and adjourned to Twillight’s main room to prepare for the coming days.  

[Ronyo Storm]

Part I
First Impressions

I find it odd that throughout my travels I continue to come across people who, despite having different takes and views of the world; wish to join me on my ever expanding quest. I have found a great friend in the elf Tiki and someone who will make sure I laugh well into my grey years. He has stuck by me through hard times and worst times, and for that I am truly grateful. I found my people and with them the identity of my father and his legacy. I also found three grand friends in the tribes serving as the back bone to the unified Wereterra clans. Akamy, originally my father’s advisor and a grand shaman as well, he has helped me find a path in life and showed me wisdom I sorely needed at the time. Kodyak the chief engineer to the Werebears who resourcefulness and ingenuity helped win the day against the opposing clans, and who I have come to greatly trust, and I cannot forget the leader of the Weretigers, Rashka, whose aid was greatly appreciated and has helped me learn to lead. I wish the three of them could have joined Tiki and I in search of my mother but I knew they were needed there.
Then there’s Mist who seems so far from the people I’ve meet thus far. Her beauty is matched only by the deadly iron staff she carries, and reminds Tiki of that often. Even onboard her ship she seemed out of place in the band of pirate women and I believe she came to understand that as well. Which may very well be why she has decided to tag along and see what other trouble I can get myself in, that and I think she has a fondness for Tiki; although she would probably hit me with that staff if she ever heard me say it. Finally we come to the oddest person I have meet to date, my brother. The fact I have a brother was great news to me, but to see that he is of similar mind as me makes me glad to have him along. His strength and courage rivals that of a hundred men, which he could most certainly beat, but above all he is honorable. The large scaly lug has likewise come to enjoy the fact of having a brother and seems to be making up for lost time. On these recent travels I find myself in almost constant contests of skill, wit, or just ridicules acts. He enjoys dropping mud bombs from the sky or dive bombing us when he has the free time, and I would not stop it for the life of me.
Now I find myself heading towards a elf kingdom suppose to contain some of the greatest invokers of magic in the land. My purpose is to learn more of the sword I carry and the properties it has. Silvur has a sword of like design but he has already unlocked its hidden power. My blade, forged from my mother a grand silver dragon, has yet to truly be unlocked. It glows when my emotions run high and seems to draw something from my spiritual essence, but this was told to me by Akamy when I was given the sword. Now I seek the knowledge from the elves in hopes to finish this quest of mine and return to the monk village and see my old friends once again. Or now we press on and enjoy the road and the adventure, and avoid the occasional mud bomb and sly joke.

-Wullf Maximas

 

[Kaewyn Star]

Lanselor awoke from his nightmares once again soaked in sweat and gasping for air, his mighty fists clenched in anger and fear. It had been this way for almost a fortnight. When sleep came, it was always dark and painful, but upon waking, the tortured elf could not remember the content of the nightmares. Only the lingering emotions of a hard fought battle remained when his eyes opened. Slowly his breathing returned to normal and he was able to relax his tense muscles. A cool breeze came through the open window, comforting him, telling him that all was well, carrying with it the scent of the woods that surrounded him. Lanselor rose from his bed, not bothering to cover his naked form, and walked to the window just to make sure his precious city in the trees was still intact.

The moon was high and bright tonight, illuminating the grand city that rested in the canopy of the forest. No one stirred in the city, except the ten guardsmen that held the night watch. Every few minutes a lone dark figure could be seen patrolling his route. This familiar, peaceful sight helped Lanselor to breathe easier still. After a few more minutes of gazing, the elf returned to his bed and his troubled sleep. For now his city and his people were safe.

******

Lena stood frozen against the side of a tree. After several minutes went by, her father left the window and went back into his room. She let out a slow, relieved breath and a smile came to her lips. If he caught me sneaking out again, was all she could think. Ever since her father started having these terrible nightmares, he basically put Lena under lock and key. She understood that he was just being a father and trying to protect her. She understood that he could not stand to lose her after he lost her mother. Lanselor did not understand, however, that Lena was fifty years old now, a magnificent mage of elemental magic, and very good at hand-to-hand combat. She could take care of herself. That is why he wants me to marry so quickly, so that I will be away from here and away from this danger he foresees. But I could help protect the city, and I could help protect him. Why does he worry?

Lena moved swiftly through the city to the forest floor and quickly melted into the night.

******

High above the treetops another lone figure was out and about, exploring the clouds and keeping his keen eyes on a devilish elf wandering around in the dark.  

[Ronyo Storm]

The road leading to the high elf city known as Jade Leaf was traveled often by caravans packed with merchandise from the elves bound for human settlements. The road saw all types of travelers; from sell swords, to bandits, merchants, to assassins, and everything in between. On this day though the road was empty and still had freshly blown dust across it from the morning. Rumors of odd creatures had kept many from attempting the road and reports of attacks helped reinforce it. This proved to be a blessing in disguise for the four beating a path to the elven city, because the group was less than normal even among the roads standards.

“Talk about disserted, I can’t see a soul for miles,” Mist said as she raised a hand to shade her eyes as she peered into the distance.

“See what ya did Wullf, ya scarred everyone off,” Tiki said with a sly punch to the big Lycon’s furry shoulder.

“Ha I bet it was that brother of mine and his dive bombing. People probably think he’s some evil dragon beast attacking the road.”

Almost on cue a large ball of mud smacked into the road a few feet in front of the Lycon. From above the one responsible for the missile had began to dive in and past right above the three sending a rush of wind to blow their hair and loose garments about. Mist gave a half hearted swipe of her iron staff as always and just scowled at the half dragon.

“I heard that dear brother, and next time I turn that silver fur brown. Mist does have a point though, I didn’t see anyone from above and I had to go a ways to find that little beauty I flung at you.”

“You think the rumors are true? Some strange creature being seen on the road and attacking people for no reason, and why does everywhere we go have some horrible story like that?” Tiki asked looking at Wullf accursedly

“Must be your charming luck, but I have noticed a bit or the “beware that way,” vibe from every town. I just hope the elves can help me sort out my blade. I need to figure out how to make this thing…well do whatever it’s supposed to do. I can’t lose again like I did against Twillight on Silver Isle, I want to be able to defend my friends not have them always save me.”

“Oh don’t start that again, you’ve done just fine from what I’ve seen and heard so far. Losing one time doesn’t mean you’re a failure you know. Do I have to smack some since into you with my stick?” Mist raised her iron staff but raised a smile as well.

“No no, you keep that thing away from me. I already have Silvur attacking me with mud missiles, the last thing I need is you surprise attacking me with that hunk of metal you call a staff,” Wullf laughed as Mist gave a lazy swing in his direction.

The Lycon easily ducked the comical attack but stood back up to get a mud bomb in the face. Wullf growled and sigh, then looked to Silvur who was holding his hands up in innocents. Another blast of mud hit Wullf in the shoulder and he turned to see Tiki smile and start running.

“You better keep moving elf, if I catch you I’ll see how far I can throw you to Silvur in the air,” Wullf gave case and Mist and Silvur followed a short while later laughing all the while.  

[Kaewyn Star]

The morning was beautiful and peaceful. Birds filled the air with their morning songs as eager elves began their daily routines. Lena was awake and already practicing her magic with her tutor on the forest floor when her father found them. He remained silent and out of sight as he watched his daughter focusing so intently that sweat was running down her brow like a waterfall. All she wore was a thin blue training tunic that cut off at her mid thigh, perfect for hot days and strenuous exercises.

After mastering all four basic elemental magics, she was training to control multiple elements at the same time. Right now she was trying to maintain a fireball inside a ball of water. These naturally opposing elements gave the lesson extra difficulty. This was her tenth attempt today and thus far she couldn’t make the fire last more than a few seconds inside the watery sphere.

Finally she collapsed from exhaustion and lay on the mossy floor panting for air. “No, no, no!!!” her teacher, a proud old elf named Valace Starshadow, scowled. “If you cannot be persistent, you will never learn this technique. You have the talent; you have everything you need, except the determination. Yes, it is difficult, but once you master it, a whole new world of magical abilities will open up to you. It is a level few, if any can reach, and you are one of them, if you wouldn’t be so lazy.” The tutor let out a heavy sigh and began shaking his head. He was a strict man always walking with a stern, yet strong, look about him. He was probably the oldest elf in Jade Leaf, but also the wisest and most powerful. He was the master of several styles of magica, as well as a masterful swordsman. Battle scars covered his muscular body, a rare sight for any elf. In fact many thought of him as a tall dwarf, in that respect, but no one would dare say that to his face. His long white hair was always pulled half back and tied with a piece of black leather. Today he wore only a pair of loose white pants and his sword.

Lanselor shook his head as well as he stifled a smile. Memories flooded back to him of his days as a young elf being tutored and tortured by his former teachers and mentors. He was about to approach them when a voice stopped him abruptly.

“Why, master,” it said slyly from out of the woods. “Don’t be so hard on my future wife. Can’t you see she is exhausted?” Bindarian Darksun emerged from the trees like a snake, slithering toward the elf lying on the ground. The old tutor bowed his head sharply, reluctantly to the pompous young elf that was interrupting his training session and then turned to his pupil, “We will conclude our lesson for today, Highness. Tomorrow, though, come prepared.” With a distasteful look at Bindarian, the old elf turned on his heels and disappeared without a sound.

Bindarian held out his jewel-covered hand to Lena with a crooked smile on his pale face. Lena looked at his hand for a moment, let out a sigh and then took it. She rose to her feet gracefully, no longer breathing heavily, and asked with a disinterested face, “How long have you been watching me?”

A haughty laugh escaped his thin lips and he replied, “My dear, I never take my eyes off of you.” He released her hand and stroked her cheek. Lena didn’t move, didn’t flinch. She just stood there defiantly, gritting her teeth so as not to bite his hand. She could maintain her composure around anyone, even Bindarian, when necessary. She would never openly stain her father’s name by being rude to a neighboring diplomat, but she would be no more than civil to this one. Lena turned and walked back to the city, as Bindarian followed.

Lanselor did not like that elf in the least. He had appeared not to long ago on a peaceful diplomatic mission to befriend Jade Leaf and seek an alliance. Although nothing was official yet, the arrogant elf had immediately fallen for his daughter, Lena. Lanselor could not blame him because his daughter was beautiful, but he didn’t like Bindarian and his ways. No self-respecting elf should cover himself in false wealth as he did. Lanselor was only glad that Lena was as unimpressed with him as he.  

[Ronyo Storm]

The previous night was uneventful other than Wullf find ways to get back at Tiki and Silvur for the mud throwing, and Mist trying to keep some order of peace. The following morning the quartet broke camp and headed off once again towards Jade Leaf, and once again the party found the road as barren as before. The sight had become ire and symbolizing something wrong with the area, Silvur stayed grounded and halted the assaults for it seemed as if he was needed close by today.

“Yesterday it was nice having the road to ourselves, now what I wouldn’t give for someone to go by and look at Wullf and Silvur with perplexed looks,” Tiki looked at Wullf as he spoke.

“I’m not a fan of those looks, but I do share your feelings on the road. With such a grand city as Jade Leaf this road should be full of trade caravans and people wanting goods from either place,” Wullf replied while he looked behind them an craned his neck to try and see further down the road.

“Might the trade season be over, and this is simply the normal for this road?” Tiki asked trying to think of some logical reason for the event.

“Even if the trade season is over a road to a major city would never be like this. Some of the road is in need of repair and I see no signs of a maintenance crew anywhere. I suggest we keep together and stay alert,” Mist gripped her staff tighter as she spoke

A scream from up the road seemed to enforce Mist’s suggestion and the four adventurers raced to find the source of the scream. Around the next bend they saw a lone wagon with its small team of four merchants, being attacked by six bazaar creatures, Kismets. They seemed like orcs with their build and slightly hunched backs, along with a set of sharp bottom eye teeth protruding from the lower lip, but that’s where the similarities ended. The creatures were closer to grey and black skin tones then the sickly greens of orcs and spines dotted the body instead of thick hair fibers. The eyes were of red and oranges unlike the yellow jaundiced eyes of orcs. They wore black armor atop their chest, shoulder, back, and waist, and carried fine curved swords casted out of some black metal.

Not stopping to think about the reason for the Kismet being on the road, Wullf and his companions charged straight into the creatures. As Wullf let out a howl to sound the charge the Kismet turned and were meet by the flying charge of Silvur knocking all but one to the ground. Wullf barreled in and engaged the standing creature while Mist and Tiki tried to finish off the ones on the ground. Tiki put his trident through one on the ground and heard it growl in protest before it went still. Tiki’s quick death blow cost him his defense and the Kismet laying next to him grabbed his feet and pulled them out from under him. Mist was on that one in a flash with a menacing over head swing of here iron staff, which slammed into the Kismet’s head and caved it in. Mist helped Tiki up in time to see the other three stand up and ready their weapons.

*****

Wullf and the Kismet he faced off against traded attack for attack and parry for parry, but Wullf was simply going through the motions looking for an opening. The Kismet’s blade came in wide for a mighty chop but Wullf saw it for what it was. With a quick instep Wullf brought his blade to block the blow and slam his elbow into the face of a wide eyed Kismet. Back peddling while holding its bloody nose the creature had no defense when Wullf slashed at its neck. With his opponent dispatched the Lycon turned to see where he was needed.

*****

Mist and Tiki worked together to fend off the attacks of the last three Kismets. With their long weapons the duo could keep their enemies at bay and try and spot openings. That opening came in the form of another sky charge from Silvur, but this one ended with the half-dragon landing atop the middle Kismet an crushing its shoulders. Silvur drove his large blade into the head of the Kismet he landed on to make sure it was finished, and knowing his position he then back flipped, using his wings to help him cover a greater distance during the flip, and landing out of the grasp of the other two Kismets to his sides. Mist and Tiki capitalized on the situation and struck hard at the turning Kismets hitting each in the side of the throat or head which dropped both creatures low.

With weapons sheathed the four moved the bodies off the road and helped the wagon team, who had managed to get there horse team under control, or tried until they caught sight of Silvur and Wullf. The wagon team didn’t even bother to gather up all its supplies as they snapped the reins and took off at a break neck pace.

“Well, you wanted someone around to get scared of me again. Looks like you got your wish Tiki,” Wullf said with a smile.

“Ah, stupid humans run from anything that looks funny, no offense Mist,” Tiki wined at Mist as he spoke.

“None taken, I always want to run from you.”

“We can’t carry these supplies so we will leave them here for someone who may need them. Besides I want to get to Jade Leaf even more now. If Kismets are out here then Twillight can’t be far behind, and everywhere he goes he brings trouble,” Wullf said after chuckling to Mist’s remark.

“It’s like he’s following you or something, that or you have the worst luck I’ve ever seen,” Wullf’s brother smiled.

“Hey, that’s my title thank you, and I’ll not lose it to some puppy,” Tiki proclaimed with sly smile.

“You can keep the title, alright let’s keep moving and hope my…Tiki’s luck doesn’t follow,” Wullf swung his hand towards the direction of Jade Leaf as he spoke.  

[Kaewyn Star]

Pearl was lounging in the early afternoon sun when Lanselor approached. The ivory dragon was stretched out in a grassy clearing a short distance from the city in the trees, enjoying the songbirds and the day. When he heard his friend’s footfalls, he stretched lazily, showing his impressive teeth in a wide yawn, and sat up, his blue eyes sharp and focused.

“Good afternoon, my friend,” Lanselor said with a smile.

Pearl bowed his head and replied in a deep reverberating voice, “Indeed, as fine a day as any this spring.”

“Did you have another late night then?” Lanselor asked, his smile waning somewhat.

“Aye. Our guest is a busy elf, and enjoys disappearing. He was three lengths outside the city’s perimeter when I lost track of him and he did not return until an hour before dawn. It puzzles me greatly how evasive he is, but without anything else to go on, we have hit a wall. Where is he now?”

Lanselor cut his eyes up at his comrade as a shadow passed over his face. “Ahhhh,” Pearl said with understanding. “Well, she is too smart for that, and if not,” a devious toothy smile came across his face, “I can always eat him.” This comment put a smile back on the elf’s face. He could always trust Pearl to say the right thing.

A silent moment passed and Lanselor went over and placed a hand on the dragon’s massive shoulder. “My dreams are getting worse, old friend. Dark images haunt me at night, threatening everything I hold dear; my daughter… this place… even you.”

“Why can’t you see these things more clearly? You are not the untrained elf you use to be, and yet you still can’t get a defined image?”

“No, something is hindering my sight. Something or someone very powerful is going to a lot of trouble to keep a secret, and I am afraid we will realize that secret all to soon. As I said before, they are getting worse.” Lanselor looked suddenly very old to Pearl. He sympathized with his friend, knowing how frustrated it was to know something bad was coming but not knowing what. Lanselor often had such dreams as a young elfling, but that was before he understood and was schooled in his magic. Now Lanselor should be able to look into the future of anyone and see at least fifty different possible outcomes, but something was amiss. The ruler could not see the future for any of his subjects. All he could see were these dreams. Well, whatever came, Pearl was there and he was more than willing to defend Lanselor, Lena, or Jade Leaf from anything.

Lanselor’s and Pearl’s heads suddenly snapped up and looked at the ground as something zipped through the air and landed not four feet from them. Their hearts both skipped a beat at the sight in the grass.

“A red arrow!? Come Pearl, to the sky, the city’s under attack!!”  

[Ronyo Storm]

Even with the past battle pushing them quicker along the road Wullf and his friends still had ground to cover. The sight of the Kismet out in the open like that troubled Wullf greatly and only Tiki really understood that trouble. The Kismet had been there in the battle of the Wereterras, acting as generals for the wererats and wereboars and urging them to fight. The Kismet were with Twillight when he attempted to attack and capture the dragons of the Isles of Silver, and there Twillight had revealed the Kismet to be his creations. Through it all only Tiki had been with Wullf in each battle and watched it all play out.

“Why in all of Sarigal would the Kismet be here? It doesn’t make any since, unless he’s following you,” Tiki said while looking at Wullf

“I don’t believe he’s following me, or not on purpose anyways. I do think our destines run side by side, and for whatever reason we are destined to confront one and other.”

“I didn’t think you believed in pre destined ideas?”

“I don’t, I do believe the destiny that Twillight and myself have chosen interweave upon each other. I am part of Twillight’s destiny he has chosen and he apart of mine.”

“That may be, but these things are getting annoying. First they attack my people and now they are troubling the area outside an elf city. Next time I see Twillight am going to personally repay him for all this trouble,” Silvur said with a grunt.

“Don’t finish him off to fast, I think we all want a piece of that one, Wullf most of all,” Mist said with a wry grin.

The party continued on their road for some time until they came to one of the final bends in the road. From here one could see the city of Jade Leaf or at least the tops of the trees that comprised the cities roof. It was truly a sight to behold, so they had been told. Now they would see so for themselves.

“Just around here and we should get our first look at Jade Leaf. From here it’s a straight shot to the city. I can’t wait to be among fellow elves again, the food, the dancing…”

“The bathing elf maidens?” Wullf asked referring to one of the first conversations he had with the red elf, which ended with Tiki being exiled for causing several old statues to collapse in a glorious catastrophe, and all to peep on a bathing elf maiden.

“That was a different time, I’ve changed.”

“Bathing elf maidens? Should I even ask?” Mist looked at Tiki who seemed to have grown even redder around the checks.

“That won’t be necessary right Wullf?” Tiki glanced at Wullf with eyes that pleaded for silence.

“Hahaha, for the sack of what little pride my elven friend has left I shall refrain, but it was quiet…” Wullf was cut off as the group rounded the bend. Instead of the grand sight of Jade Leafs they saw smoke, smoke that should not have been there.

“Something is not right, there should be no smoke coming from the city unless…” Tiki was cut short by Wullf.

“They are under attack; we must hurry everyone and lend what aid we can. Once inside the city, spread out and help where you can.”  

[Kaewyn Star]

Lena had changed into her formal robes and was now enduring the torture of Bindarian’s company. They were walking around the city and Lena was trying her best to be diplomatic, smiling politely, but not enthusiastically, as he talked again of his kingdom and his plans for the future. He was always vague in his grand ideal, but power and control were always the main focuses during these discussions. Lena would always try to steer the conversation to include a peaceful communion with nature, which always seemed to irritate him, which in turn would frustrate her, and bring the talks to an end, leaving an uncomfortable silence.

A moment such as this was occurring right when something happened that changed the young elf’s life completely. The guards around the city were never, in Lena’s fifty years in Jade Leaf, more than just a precautionary measure by a protective ruler. Now, suddenly, all of them were shouting in alarm as red arrows flew to land at the front of every treetop entrance around the city. It was a warning of imminent attack. Lena wasn’t sure exactly what to do now, after the warning was issued. Yes she had been instructed that if such a thing ever happened to get indoors and be as safe as she could be, but acting upon it was something utterly different.

Instead she stood and watched, frozen in place, as these strange creatures somewhat resembling orcs swarmed the forest floor. Lena couldn’t see them clearly from this high up but they were definitely wearing some type of armor. The creatures seemed to have a preplanned attack for the first thing they did was set the trees on fire at their bases. Arrows began streaking down into the swarm of attackers while other defenders drew their blades and went in for more personal combat.

Lena tried to shake off the paralyzed feeling and remember her lessons. That seemed to do little good however, for training exercises with her teachers were never full of the emotions she was now currently experiencing: anger, fear, panic were all gushing through her veins now, confusing her actions, but only for a moment.

Bindarian hissed in disgust at the sight below, “Vile, despicable creatures! Stay here, Lena.” In a flash, his sword and dagger were drawn and he charged down to protect his future ally’s kingdom.

The simple phrase “stay here” had the completely opposite affect than was intended. Lena boiled in defiance of the suggestion that she couldn’t help protect her home and began to think, then to act. The first thing she focused on were the fires starting to blaze up the sides of the massive trunks. She hurriedly made her way to the forest floor down to the forest floor. Once there, several of the elves realized that Lena was there and immediately made a wide but protective circle around her shouting,"Protect Princess Lena!." This gave her the safety she needed to perform her magic without interruption, but it also drew the attention of many more creatures. She began to concentrate, to reach into her will and focused it on the flames. She commanded the fire with her mind to come away from the tree and form into a ball in her hand. With ammunition in hand, Lena turned and fired her projectile into a group of the creatures, arching the flaming missile over her guardians. Then, remaining focused, she turned her attention to the small stream that flowed under their fair city. She drew the water out and sent it flying onto the scorched trees. Steam and smoke hissed in protest, causing the immediate area to disappear in a cloud.

Although Lena was no experienced fighter, she still felt the rush of hot anticipation when one of the creatures broke through the protective circle and charged at her back. She turned ready to materialize an elemental weapon when the most unlikely thing unexpectedly cut off the creature’s charge; it was a red elf. Lena was confused, but had no time to think, as more fires needed her attention.  

[Ronyo Storm]

Tiki sent his trident to work against the Kismet as soon as he reached the city. He had just dropped one of the ugly beasts as it lunged for an elf maiden, who had just put out the tree fires. Not wasting time to give her a second look he went back to the fight knowing she would be needed where more fires started. The little red elf fought with passion he had not known in years, it seems fighting side by side with other elves spurred him on. Tiki watched as the elf maiden made her way back up to cities upper levels where more fires could be seen.

*****

Mist found herself on one of the mid levels of the city fighting a trio of Kismet. They snarled at her with ugly teeth and Mist responded with a slam of her iron staff, which knocked two teeth out of one of the beasts. Seeing one of their own hold his teeth sent the Kismet into a frenzy, and they came at Mist with ferocity and rage. Mist’s staff worked back and forth moving in a dance around her arms, waist, and neck at times. Each spin of her staff parried a blade or slapped an arm which began to slow her attackers where she could find openings. The first came as Mist slapped another wild blade away and the Kismet let the blade go wide. Mist spun her staff in reverse and snapped the iron shaft hard into a thrust at the creatures face. Bone cracked as iron collided and the Kismet feel limp, Mist continued her spin and twist maneuver as the second Kismet came at her with renewed rage. This time the Kismet stopped on account of several wooden shafts hitting its chest all at once. Mist looked around and spotted a troop of archers coming up on her all looking for more targets as they ran.

“Hope you don’t mind the help?” The lead archer asked.

“Not at all, what’s going on here? My group and I saw the smoke from the road and rushed to see what was happening.”

“We’re still unsure ourselves; we just know these things attack with suddenness and without any warning at all. We are grateful for the assistance, follow us and we’ll find more some more of these…I’m not sure what they are.”

“They’re called Kismets, I’ll tell you the story later lead the way,” as Mist spoke she saw an elf maiden making her way up to the top level where new fires had started up.

*****

The beautiful city of Jade Leaf was crawling with Kismet. All running around attacking and setting things on fire, but the reason was still unknown. From the sky everything looked chaotic and wild, and Silvur couldn’t find anywhere for himself and Wullf to enter into the fray. Wullf looked about while being held by his brother in the sky, they had used this idea once before during the fight on the Isles of Silver so they had opted to try it again. Then Wullf spied an elf maiden bringing forth water and putting out fires on the top level houses. She seemed by herself and determined to put out every fire she came across, until she came across a group of Kismet. Three blocked her route to the nearest bridge and two more had come up from the way she had come. Without watching anymore Wullf directed Silvur to dive on that spot, and he did. Wullf taped his brother’s hand right before they came to the tree tops and that was Silvur’s signal to let go.

Wullf spun as he feel the last few feet and then straightened out feet first as he slammed right on top of the nearest Kismet. The force of the fall and Wullf’s weight crushed the beast, and had it not been for the wonderful craftsmanship of the elves, Wullf and his victim would have probably gone right through the floor. Wullf bent with the collision of the fall and sprang back up to use the momentum of the fall for him rather than let it all come down on him. With a twist to help slow his momentum down more the Lycon landed with his back to the elf and his blade pointing at the two Kismet l near the bridge as they looked at their crushed comrade. Wullf smiled at the dumbfounded looks on the other Kismet’s faces, then looked back to see if the elf was unharmed. His eyes caught hers and for some reason Wullf found himself frozen still. Her crystal eyes seemed to grab him and he did not know this feeling that was washing over him. His stare was broken as one of the Kismets ran at Wullf and the elf looked at it, the Lycon turned and meet the Kismet’s sword with his own. Wullf sent the Kismet’s blade wide and his blade slashed in with purpose, but the other Kismet was already charging with sword out straight for a quick kill. Wullf stepped into the attack and parried with his fine dragon sword, then rolling his blade over his opponents to send the blade closer to the ground and draw the Kismet closer to him. As the Kismet came in Wullf meet it with a left hook and then stood straight while the Kismet reeled from the blow and wobbled right off the edge. Wullf turned to see the other two Kismets had decided to join the fight and began charging in, but were unfortunate to be meet by flying dragon wielding a large sword. Silvur took one of the Kismets in half with his first pass and landed near Wullf on his second. The Kismet looked at the duo of Wullf and Silvur and decided he wanted no part in them anymore. The beast turned and ran straight into the side of one of the tree top buildings.

“It’s great when they do that,” Silvur smiled as he put his large sword up.

“It always puts a smile on my face.”

“You mean your muzzle?”

“Eh, which ever works,” Wullf turned and did his best to not get transfixed by the elf maiden’s eyes this time, “Hope you don’t mind us dropping in good lady. It looked like you could have used a hand.”

“Drop in? How long have you been waiting to use that?” Silvur gave his brother a small slug to the shoulder.

“A while now, but it was worth it. Oh, sorry my lady I’m Wullf Maximas and this nut here is my brother Silvur. Are you ok?”  

[Kaewyn Star]

Lena was first paralyzed by fear at the big furry creature that fell from the sky. One word stuck in her mind as she saw him take out the group of creatures… werewolf. She had heard stories of these beasts that lived in the Wereterras, nowhere near her peaceful forest, yet here one was standing before her, his silver fur glistening and silky. Had she not known it was dangerous, she probably would have tried to stroke it. Then he looked at her, his gaze piercing and intense. It only held for a second, but it felt like forever. The elf was stunned to see not only a keen intelligence, but also shock in his glassy orbs. They were not the wild crazed eyes of the stories. Wasn’t there another creature similar to werewolves only civilized? Yes, They were called lykons.

It seemed the conflict was over before it even began and there he stood, this towering fuzzy giant holding the most magnificent sword of power Lena had ever seen. She was only vaguely aware that there was another creature flying overhead until he landed and sheathed his sword of power. Lena knew her mouth was wide open as they began bantering back and forth, like two brothers harassing each other. The lykon introduced himself by name and asked her a question.

“I’m……fine,” she managed to choke out, but the sounds of the battle dispensed the pleasantries for now. “Thank you,” she said quickly and ran off to continue defending her home. They could talk one this was all over. Thunderous wings were heard above as Lanselor and Pearl finally showed up to help finish off the rabble left in the city.