Raiya's Posts (9)

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Custom CSS + Editing your profile tutorial

 


Welcome to the Custom CSS tutorial for custom profile design! Have a specific question? Hitting Ctrl+F will help you search for keywords

Still can't find what you're looking for? Drop a question in the comments below! Doing this will help other users with similar questions find what they need

Click HERE to find the Themes Group. That is where you will find pre-made CSS codes that are free to use!

 

DISCLAIMERS & NOTES:

-- Custom CSS codes alter the appearance of the default base theme you have already selected. It does not override the base theme and create something completely new. Pre-made CSS codes may look different based on what default theme you have selected

-- All profile appearances and colors are prone to change based on the dimensions and settings of the individual viewer's screen, and layouts may appear different on mobile devices

-- Profile appearances are prone to change slightly with site updates. Admins typically cannot control these site updates, but we will do our best to help you out if profile things get shifted as a result

-- CSS codes are great to add and design features that your Design Studio does not provide. Don’t forget about all of the great options the Design Studio already has, don’t be afraid to experiment and have them work together!

 

ADDING A PRE-MADE CODE

Step 1

Find the Design Studio option on your profile. It will either be on the header of your page, or under the "Options" button

Step 2
If you are using a pre-made code from the Themes Group for the first time, be sure to set your code to the default base theme the maker of the code used. Codes by Rai use the MUSIC theme base code, for example. You are free to use whatever base theme you want and alter the code to your liking!

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Step 3:
-- Go to the CSS section (circled in red) and delete whatever code you had before. Be sure everything in both the “Global CSS” and the “Theme CSS” sections (circled in blue) gets deleted

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Steps 4-6:

-- Paste the new code into the “Theme CSS” option. NOT the Global css option. 

-- Hit PREVIEW to privately view a preview of your edits

-- Edit away, and don't forget to hit SAVE!

 

 

 


EDITING YOUR PROFILE - see image below

 

If you have ANY sort of custom code in your profile, you will need to edit your profile this way. 

 

These steps are very important, or else the design studio will not show your customized items

 

-- Go to your Design Studio, located on your profile under "Options"

-- Go to HISTORY, circled in yellow 

-- Click the most recent theme icon, a green check mark will appear. Circled in red 

-- You can now either edit your code (circled in blue) or edit all of the other custom sections. Don't forget to save!!

-- Important note: You will need to do this every single time you want to edit your profile after you save it

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

“My code is not working” checklist.

Did you:
- Follow the steps listed in the “Editing your Code” segment

- Make sure that all code is deleted from the Global CSS section
- Double check that all brackets, parenthesies, periods, colons and semi-colons are accounted for
- Double check for any typos
- Make sure the specific CSS code is compatible with your base theme. If not, either switch your base theme and start from scratch before pasting your CSS code again, or alter your CSS code to fit the base theme you have.
- Make sure there are no duplicates of a certain code in what you have

If your code is still not working, then perhaps you need an additional line of code to edit a specific part of your profile. Reach out to an admin, we are happy to help!

 

What is the Global CSS code option?

The information in the Global CSS code section is the "bare bones" of the site code itself. It is just kinda there, honestly. It will not affect anything site-wide if you were to tinker with it. However, any code you put in there will alter any base theme code you select as a default. For example, if you key in a code for a border design into the Global CSS section, then each and every base theme code you click on will pop up with that border design. Things in the Global CSS code section may clash or override any other code you have in the Themes CSS option, or any edits you may try to make. 

Overall, it will save you some mental gymnastics to simply leave that section alone. 

 

"How do I add XYZ detail/feature onto my page or code?"

-- You can go to other pre-made codes in the Themes group that have that detail, and simply locate the strip of code for that detail and copy/paste it into your own code. Search the codes for lables or key words using Ctrl+F

-- If you are looking for anything specific, can't find a pre-made code, or do not know where to copy/paste that strip of code, drop a question into the Themes Group or reach out to an admin!

 

**More frequent questions will be added as they come 

Have any questions about CSS codes? Drop them down below!

Read more…

31CD, Week 1: Hidden records

31CD - Week 1

Full prompt list

 

Day 1: Seasonal

  •  Raiya's activity levels and overall mood seems to elavate around the autumn and springtime seasons. She can get sunburnt, so additional precautions are taken if her activities take place without shade during the summer.
  • Snowfall does not bother her much, but Raiya dislikes the frigid temperatures of deep winter. She becomes especially miserable if it is accompanied by cold bursts of wind. 
  • As for what she does, she tries to spend as much time outdoors when the weather permits. She used to spend her days roaming the territory of her old homelands, flying with Atheria, gardening, partaking in sparring matches, or entertaining young beasts.
  • Her attire obviously changes as the days and seasons pass. Warmer climates call for short-sleeved or very thin and loose-fitting long sleeved tops. She is rarely seen without some sort of longer pants year-round, intent on protecting her legs from the elements while traversing through Wildlands and against the "ankle-biters" she was frequently accompanied by. The thickness and length of any coats she wears depends on how low the temperature is and how strong the winds are. She has everything from light jackets to heavy fur cloaks. Nowadays in the city, hoodies and trench coats are her usual go-tos. 


Day 2: Vices.

  • Raiya is blunt with her words, and oftentimes a little too blunt and heavy-handed if she has an issue with you
  • She used to be quite extraverted and accepting towards newcomers. Nowadays, however, her mannerisms are much more aloof and closed-off, yet still not unkind. She will merely partake in low-energy and dead-end small talk if she is approached by someone new, especially if she is either not in the mood to socialize, or if she has an "off" feeling about you
  • She does tap her fingers when she is stressed 

Day 3---

Day 4---

Day 5---

Day 6---

Day 7---

Read more…

Feather-borne Epistles

Feather-borne Epistles

;;-- a Collaborative Effort

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R

A small duffel bag and a carry-along knapsack were plopped at the foot of the bed. The last few hours were a blur to say the very least; the surprise visit, an atomic bit of information, and the last few hours focused on preparation.

Raiya sat on her bed with a hefty sigh, arms resting against her knees and eyes trained upon the floor boards in front of her feet. She was quiet for a few moments, making direct attempts to soothe the thoughts that jumped around her skull like a dozen wired-up rabbits in a small cage. She knew she had to wind down and rest before her morning departure, but after what she had been told...how could she?

A soft, content squeak caught her attention. Cyr rested on her perch next to the open window. One foot was tucked comfortably in her fluffed-up torso feathers, and intense dark brown eyes peered at Raiya. A wave of calm washed over the woman as she met Cyr's gaze and observed the bird for a time. A thought then crossed the elf's mind.

Cyr's stare followed Raiya as she rose from her bed and walked towards her desk. Once the lamp was illuminated, a chair brought back and settled upon, and pen and a strip of paper were obtained, she began to write:

_____

My dear Spencer,

It has been a while since we last touched base, but I have faith our birds will find one another well.

Mai Lenae of the old Warlord army found me earlier today. She made a half-hearted comment the run-in was a coincidence, but I know very well it was not. Mai is now a high-ranking official for the FBI, and she explained their next mission.

They have found who is responsible for the bombs that destroyed Nightwing and the Warlord territory. He goes by "King." He apparently is still out there running an extensive criminal ring, and Mai is on a mission to hunt him down and take him into custody. I have been asked to join her team.

I will be leaving tomorrow morning with Mai to the FBI headquarters, and then go through a briefing process with the rest of the team. I lack further detail for the time being, but I will update you as information comes.

I don't think I have fully processed this information yet. The notion that we not only have a face and a name to the culprit, but his actual location seems entirely unreal. This information has challenged all of my assumptions revolving around what had happened that fateful day. Everything seems so incredibly surreal right now....

And what of you? What adventures have you embarked upon as of late?

I hope you are well, dear friend
Raiya

_____

The paper was rolled up and placed in a very small, rectangle envelope, which was then printed with Spencer's name and gently yet securely tied to the hawk's leg. Raiya stepped back as the bird lifted herself and hopped to the windowsill. Cyr's head bobbed and triangulated, eyes scanning the night sky as if she were a radar scanning for signal. After a few seconds, powerful wingbeats carried the bird into the sky.

- - - - - - - - - -

S

Raiya,

I’ve missed you dearly old friend, it’s good to hear from you again. 

I have spent a great deal of this evening re-reading what you shared with me. From the sound of it, I am not the only old ghost you have spoken with lately. I worry about what it means that Mai came to reach out to you. In knowing you, I could also understand her decision. 

It pains me to think of what happened so many years ago. What King was capable of back then could only be amplified now. Whatever you have chosen to do, be mindful of your company. 

Please my dear friend, be careful. 

I am currently home, but set to leave soon. I am seeking out answers from an old philologist I met in Northern Europe years ago. Long ago I came into possession of a book that Skya thought might hold answers of my past life. Regrettably, I couldn’t read it anymore than I could decipher what it’s even for. It looks to be an old grimoire, the author is a mystery as well. I have held onto it for so many years I still can’t fathom how it is relevant now.

I had an intruder a few nights ago.
Whomever they were, they wreaked of black magic and disappeared when I came down the stairs. I found stains of sulfur on the spine of the book. I don’t know what it means. I only know that if it wasn’t important then, it is now. I only wish Skya was here to answer these questions.

I will be looking forward to hearing from you. I have faith that Cloudfeather will be able to navigate her way to you as she always has. Cyr will be well looked after.

It’s good to hear from you again. Be well, and be careful.

Spencer

_____

Doublechecking his bags and preparing the old house to be left alone, Spencer gave the avian some time to rest. With a whistle, the hawk dappled in white and cream made her presence upon the windowsill with a series of chirps and clicks of her beak in acknowledgement to Cyr’s presence on the back of a chair in Spencer’s kitchen. He attached the message, taking the raptor ever-so-carefully on his arm. 

“Should you lose your way, return to me, understand?”

With a gentle push off, Cloudfeather took to the air with a heavy sweep of white wings. Spencer took a seat beside Cyr’s chair afterward and picked up a cup of tea that had been in waiting, his thoughts searching back to the cataclysmic event so many years ago.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

Days came and went since the White bird left Spencer’s home. In the meanwhile, Cyr followed Spencer wherever he went. She kept a decent distance to avoid contact with any event that may occur during that time, yet she always stayed either within, or just out of his field of vision. The early dawning of the third day arose, and the sunrise was finally accompanied by the rustling of piebald feathers and an avian whistle for attention. 

Cloudfeather landed on the nearest accessible perch within Spencer’s proximity, a letter with his name bound gently to her leg. There was something off about this letter. It was left primarily blank, save for a mere few sentences written at the very top of the page.

_____

Spencer, 

Cloudfeather reached me in good health about two days ago, I have not had the opportunity to write until now. I send her back to you well-rested from her first trip.

I worry for you. Such strange events unfolding at your doorstep.... I only hope that your mind and memory hold fast on your quest to find the answers to seek, and assist you in finding that which is unseen. 

 

Best regards,

Raiya

- - - - - - - - - -

S

In the days since departing, Spencer had been on the move. He found his portal entry would open from the storage closet in his home to that of a hotel that would be home for the next few days. Once he had landed, the window was open for Cyr who was quick to disperse out the dormer windows of the top floor hostel that he had secured a single room in. A flash of white past that window came days later. With no luck finding the person he was searching for, the man perked up when he noticed the avian at the window and stood hastily to let her in.

Upon unraveling the note, his expression fell somewhat to the contents. It felt... off. Shallow even, compared to the flight the bird had taken to exchange it. Over and over her words were read like the riddles they had left in more lighthearted letters of the past. His eyes skimmed over that last sentence that was so precariously placed on the end. After another couple of minutes of searching through his spell book for something familiar, a grin spread little by little. It was worth a try. With a slow sweep of his hand across the page, he uttered a phrase or two strung together with care and waited for what might happen.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

Bingo. As if on queue, words began to appear on the blank space of the letter, beginning just below the visible cryptic message ;;

 _____

Apologies for the secrecy. It would be unwise for either of us to reveal too much out in the open, least these letters somehow wind up in the wrong hands. 

I do genuinely worry for you. Sulfur especially is a concerning hint… it makes me wonder why something of demonic essence would be interested in that book. Worry aside, I am overjoyed to know that you now have a lead on finding out who you were before! I know you are cautious by nature, but that is not going to stop me from telling you to not get caught with your guard down. Please look out for yourself, Spence. I have a feeling that is not the last time you will encounter an intruder of that essence. 


We ship out for Dubai in a few days' time. The details they give us are few and on a “need to know" basis. It is understandable from a logical standpoint, but it feels odd putting this much  trust in the plans of people whom you know nothing about. 

On the note of “old ghosts,” I am about ready to string up whatever necromancer is responsible for the recent resurrections. I have encountered not ghosts, but moreso old corpses back from the dead. The Warlords are alive. At least, a few of the older members. Wrath is here, as are Creed, Eric, Chels, and two others whom I barely recognize. 

They are not here out of their own free will, however, and Wrath especially is very vocal in his distaste of it. Mai seems to be in control over them and this situation, but there is a definite rift between her and the six. There is a lot that I do not yet understand about how they survived the exodus attacks or this new dynamic here, but I am certain I will learn in no time at all.

I can't say I enjoy the majority of my company or the atmosphere here... It's an uncomfortable, and unfamiliar feeling for sure. I’m banking on the outcome to be worth it all.

One final note; I cannot guarantee consistency in these letters, finding time to myself has been a bit of a challenge. Keep me updated on your findings as they come, my friend. Where are you now? What have you found? I have great interest in learning of your discoveries!

In your words: be well, and be careful

Raiya

- - - - - - - - - -

S

With a smile as the words appeared, Spencer began to read. The smile wouldn't last long. First pensive, then covering his mouth to Raiya's own predicament he couldn't quite put an image to. The Warlords are alive. Maybe he was glad he couldn't will an image in his mind. It gave the man an odd sense of chill.

 _____

Raiya,

A trip sounds like the perfect way to clear one's head, I hope your travel treats you well. I wish I could be in your company for it, heaven knows it has been too long. It seems that memory lane has a way of... sneaking up on a person sometimes.

I will write again soon, I look forward to hearing from you when the time suits you.

Spencer.

_____

In a similar fashion to the last, once the letter was revealed, more of his handwriting spilled onto the page.

_____

I understand, especially in your... rather frightening company.

I shouldn't find it surprising that they would dig up their own demons for the sake of finding one. Then again I have never believed in their motives or their dealings. I don't like the sound of it at all, but... I recognize I am not in your shoes. I know you to be just as cautious as I, if not more. Still. Instincts rarely tell lies to their owner, promise not to turn your back on these people, Rai.  I wouldn't know what I' d 


Whenever you are bound to receive this, I have been in Denmark for several days now. I wish my findings were far less grim than they have been in the days leading up to now. I found the man I had come to see, by the name of Byron. He seemed to take a special interest in the book at first but had his own troubles in trying to decipher it. Byron believes it to be a personal grimoire, possibly a spellbook. Whoever designed it had never meant for prying eyes to read, it might take reading the author's mind to read it at all. I once knew no one wiser on such topics, although I fear the old man has lost his touch by the way he'd demanded if I was 'playing games' in bringing it to him. He seemed quite nervous and requested I take it when I leave.

I had planned to re-visit him yesterday morning. The door was open when I arrived. There was ink splattered on his desk, chairs knocked over. I found his glasses on the floor; it's hard to say if the struggle was his own or someone else's... but it wreaked of sulfur. I have to be very careful, now. Not only for my own wellbeing but who I might contact. I don't understand what any of it means. I know not for a fact I am being followed, I will do my best to travel in daylight for now. I plan to head further South while I re-evaluate my next course of action.

I will keep your location in mind for the next letter. Just as well I will try and be patient in waiting for yours- I hope you'll pardon me if I am not.

Stay safe. May we both write again soon on happier terms.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

A smile appeared as his words appeared from the blank page, yet that smile swiftly faded and replaced by an involuntary frown as she read on. 

A cold pit sank in her stomach. The description of Byron’s place being vandalized sent chills slithering up her spine, accompanied by the heavy feeling of dread. The notion of her being powerless to help gnawed on the back of her mind, creating a feeling of restlessness in her inability to protect or help him against the unseen threat in any way. Raiya knew that he was strong enough to fend for himself, yet -- 


“Raiya.” The elven’s eyes snapped to the source of the sound, jolting out of her train of thought and discreetly hiding the letter in a reflexive motion. She relaxed as she met Mai’s gaze, then nodded, acknowledging the unsaid order. Mai left, and Raiya rose and tucked the letter securely with her other belongings before following Mai’s trail. 

The letter’s response will just have to wait...

A day or two dragged on, filled with travel and last-minute orders. Her mind was occupied by the fast-paced events unfolding in this new environment, yet her mind frequently fell back onto Spencer and his situation. The cold pit of dread returned every time she remembered those words he wrote:  “I know now for a fact that I am being followed….” 

 

Finally, a moment of quiet as nightfall came. Illumination from the light of a single flashlight in a dark bunker was all that Raiya had, yet it was all she needed. 

_____

Spencer - 

What could possibly be so important to a demon?  

The more I hear of your journey, the more I feel as though your past life was cloaked in so much more mystery - so much more danger - than previously anticipated. In a way, it is all the more reason to push on to get to the bottom of things. However I fear it also means that now you have no choice but to continue and see this through to the end. Even if you were to back out, “It” has made it clear that It knows you, and I feel it will continue to hunt you no matter where you go so long as you have that book. Do you think it is after the book, or after you?


If it puts your mind at ease at all, let me reassure you that I am not in any real danger from the Warlords. Wrath did throw a chair at me the other day, but I admit I made a scathing remark towards him and likely deserved it. But do not be mistaken; I do not regret it, nor am I sorry.

_____

Her pen paused for a moment, and Raiya fell still and quiet in thought. She was debating as to whether or not to continue sharing what was on her mind… with everything Spencer had going on, there was a brief hesitation that had paused her hand. A quiet sigh left her lips, and that hesitation was shaken. Pen once again met paper, and the elf continued the letter. 

_____

We are so close to departure to where King was last seen, and the atmosphere is quiet and intense in anticipation of the Storm to come. The silence is deafening, and in that silence, I find myself being plagued with the growing feeling of being ill-prepared. 

Sparring matches and the training we have undergone have been immense and rich in instruction. However, I have neither seriously fought nor undergone intense quests such as this in a very, very long time. I am surrounded by true warriors and some of the fiercest soldiers I have ever come across, and I feel as though my skill levels are but a mere shadow in comparison to theirs. The authorities have done their best to prepare us all, and Mai especially has helped me immensely, yet I still find myself being plagued by the “what ifs.” The nerves that have arisen make me feel as though I am preparing for my first battle all over again. Funny, isn’t it? How long ago that was.... 

I wish you were here, Spence. This quest would be much easier to take on with a familiar face. 

 

Be well, my dear confidant;

Raiya 

- - - - - - - - - -

S

The days continued on with travel for either. While Raiya spent her days with the motley crew he grimaced to the thought of, Denmark was far behind the ghost. Another incident came and went as the dark skies overhead were labeled as a warning sign from here on out. He was being followed, perpetually so. While the hive mind of the shadows tracking couldn’t always decipher, they had come regrettably close once or twice upon a time. 

From the window of a well-lit hostel lobby, the next note was pulled out after fetching it from the bird, who… he wasn’t quite on speaking terms with. Finding perpetual places to stay had dipped into the nomad’s funds and made for less-than-desirable pickings for his informant. The letter was settled in his lap under the table as he muttered the incantation to show its secrets.

_____

Raiya,

I’m sorry this is coming to you later than I would have hoped to reach you. The past weeks have left me preoccupied and without much success on the matter. I’m making less and less progress by being restricted to the daytime in order to travel, but unpredictability is a saving grace to all of this. Whatever familiars ‘It’ has sent for me, they appear to be hive-minded in nature. I have kept my travel and research to the daytime but their presence is growing more frequent, little by little. I couldn’t tell you what role I play in ‘Its’ plans, but whatever is inside this book cannot fall into their hands. Book or not, I fear I’m hunted all the same.
_____

Spencer exhaled a sigh and rubbed his face. It was light outside the windows closest to his table, but the normally self-sustaining spirit was going on far too many days awake now. His mind was not at ease. Not with his own finding, his own ventures, nor was it put to rest by whether the elf could dodge a chair thrown by an undead tyrant of the past. He didn’t like where it was going when he first read the letter, and renewed that worry when he sat down to write. He picked up the pen afterward and continued.

_____

I remember a time and place where I was lost. I couldn’t keep my feet on the ground, a sword in my hand, nor my stomach intact when I was in the air! A warrior took my hand then and made me able to stand beside her. She rode into war with beasts, she sat with the dragons and told stories among their young. She brought fear to men who well deserved it. I refuse to think for a second that she has lost who she is, even after all these years... I have just as much awe for her now as I did in those woods.

Doubt is a test of your instincts when you need them most. Perhaps it is just as well that they would be awake to protect you now.
Please stay safe, my friend. I have all the faith in the world that this message and the next will reach you well.

-Spencer

 

P.S. 

Tiredness is an awful thing... coming from an old ghost, I feel sorry for those that carry it far heavier than I do.
In a den of demons, take care of yourself, mind and body.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

"Lay low. Do not engage."
Mai's voice spoke quietly into Raiya's ear piece, and the ear pieces of half a dozen squad members spread out across the vicinity. The rocks and dry sticks were sharp, yet Raiya and the others remained flat on their stomachs amidst the shielding bramble.

The elven calmly peered at the procession through the scope of her high-powered firearm. She watched the beast-drawn carts stacked high with wooden crates of different sizes, the humans and humanoids chained up and walking behind each cart, and the cruelty of the slave drivers spitting harsh words in a language that the elven hardly recognized. She had her eye on a more decorated slave driver who seemed to be monitoring the procession. His snarling face and red eyes gave away demonic origin.

A small shadow drifted upon the ground, and Raiya lifted her eyes to see the silhouette of the hawk circling very high above them. Her heart leapt at the sight, but it swiftly sunk when she turned her attention back to the loyalists. That demon was looking up at the bird too.

Raiya's heart began to race with utmost dread as the general hoisted his firearm up towards where the bird circled. His finger was merely hovering over the trigger, yet his eye was glued to the scope.

Cloudfeather caught a thermal and dipped out of view, and the red-eyed humanoid huffed and turned back towards his company with a rough bark of commands.

"Raiya, is everything alright?" The commander's voice sounded in her ear piece. Shit, she forgot this armor picked up vitals. An inhale and a controlled exhale was given, willing herself to slow her racing heart before quietly replying. "Affirmative."

_____
It was several hours before Raiya could beckon the bird over and read the letter. The other elf's words describing his recent happenings brought on yet another sense of unease.  Spence's exhaustion also did not go undetected; She could tell by both his words and by his handwriting.

_____

Spencer-

I am relieved to hear that you are still alright. Well, as "alright" as you can manage in these dire circumstances. Do you have an inkling as to what "It" or its familiars are yet? Nothing comes without a weakness, and am confident that your intelligence will lead you to your answer soon enough.

Your kind words mean more to me than you know. Thank you, my friend. All is going as planned thus far. One thing has stuck out as odd, however; we came across a vast scorch mark across the ground that cut through one of the near towns. Locals that we work with speak of a dragon "fly-by" attack that happened roughly two weeks ago. They described the dragon as massive and black, and the fire a blinding blue.

The chances of what my gut feeling tells me to be true are extraordinarily slim, but Spencer... My mind goes to Chanook. Although, I haven't a clue how or why he would be all the way out here. I am currently unable to attempt a projected mental link in fear that it may give away our location. May the hope of Chanook's survival bring you strength.


P.S.~
Even the dead need to rest. If it is safe for you to close your eyes for a few minutes, here is a trick I learned here to rest even in enemy territory.

If you are able to lay on your back, do so. If not, sitting against a wall works just as well. Close your eyes, and begin to focus on relaxing the muscles on your face. Relax your brow, the space between your eyebrows, your temples, relax the muscles behind your ears and unclench your jaw. Let your shoulders drop, and unclench your fists. Unclench your shoulder blades, and go all the way down to your toes and unwind any tension you may be holding. Repeat the word "Don't think" over like a mantra in your head, and sleep will come to you for a few minutes at a time. Your body will be rested, yet the mantra will keep your mind alert enough to detect changes in your surroundings. It has worked for me here, and I hope you find yourself able to utilize it. Stay safe and well, my friend.

Raiya

- - - - - - - - - -

S

Something about the detail in Raiya’s letter had his stomach twisted into a knot every time he re-read it. He held the piece of paper in hand while he envisioned what they had witnessed, sourly cursing his current predicament that he couldn’t go dropping what he was after to investigate on his own behalf. No… no no-no, He reminded himself not to get his full hopes up and wiped a hand across his face. He had searched the world in the last few decades… or so he thought? The fact never left the man. At his worst, a stray storm cell could send him on maddening witch hunts and down dead-ends that should have been seen as that. 

_____

 Raiya,

 

I’ve done nothing but travel since I last wrote to you… The familiars are the work of not just a sorcerer, but a Necromancer. My circumstances haven’t changed on that front, but I am soon to be on a boat headed South-East to check in on another old friend who may be able to decipher some things.  So long as the rest of the voyage goes well, I might buy myself time to stop and think. Certainly, time to write.

There isn’t a day that I don’t think of him, where Chanook might be. I know he is out there. I haven’t felt closure in his absence even after so many years. I have chased down so many false cases and dead ends that a direct sighting sounds impossible. Two weeks ago… you said? I want to believe it, probably just as you. If I could have seen it with my own eyes maybe I would have known, but it sounds… frighteningly similar. It may be some time before I am able to think about such things again. Please keep me posted on what you find. You have my high hopes, as well as spirits.

P.S.  I will try to do so. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts. I fear the next letter might come with delay, but I will do my best in getting it to you.

 

Your dear friend,

Spencer

_____

The boat was set to board come morning, and after some risks taken the night before, the Rider would be on it. The busiest venues were often the easiest for the ghost to slip into undetected and the pedestrian ship was a shield once it set off. Cyr took off with the message come night.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

The corresponding note arrived fairly quickly after Spencer sent his. There was not only the usual letter attached to the bird's leg, but a very small package as well. The contents were tightly wrapped in some sort of thin cloth. A thin plastic, quite similar to saran wrap, sealed the whole package from the elements.

_____

Spencer-

There is nothing of great value to report for the time being. No more reports of dragon activity, no huge raids, not even a note-worthy mention of my warlord company. We are caught in a waiting game right now. Mai and a handful of commanders will be partaking in a quick sting in the next day or so, but the rest of us have been ordered to stay put and stay quiet at our home base. We have already been "staying put" for the last two days now.

We are getting so incredibly close to finding King. I am getting restless for the end result. Excited, even. In reality, the excitement may be partially due to becoming stir-crazy. Card games are only enjoyable for so many rounds.

Have you found the friend you set out to seek? Were they any help? Have you made any new discoveries about the book? There are so many questions I have about your travels, but I know the time you have to rest is short. I have attached a small gift for you, hopefully it travelled well.

Be safe and be well, dear friend
Raiya

_____

When the small package was unravelled, it revealed six tea bags and a small rolled-up note. Each tea bag was labeled respective to its contents, which showed two of each type: Masala chai, matcha, and mint.

The accompanying note was kept short:

_____
They produce very good teas here! There's a recipe I learned for something called karak chai tea. I'll have to make a batch once our adventures come to an end. I think you'll find it quite enjoyable.

- - - - - - - - - -

S

Night came from where Spencer had been stationed for the time being. The window of a bed and breakfast had been cracked open purposefully in the new, warmer climate... Still, he was surprised to hear the familiar call of Cloudfeather overhead so soon. After a few whistles and a short wait, he managed to help the bird find where to touch down. The package held his attention as he untied it rather hastily, earning a warning sound from the disgruntled avian in the process. Flinching, Spencer looked over his shoulder to see if someone had awoken at the sound. Exhaling, he took his time and tugged it free. The letter came first. He unfolded it, tucking the small parcel aside for the moment. Once it was read, once, twice, thrice times over, he opened the small package.

_____

Raiya,

Your message reached me well, as did your gift. Pardon a delay on my part, I got off the boat some days ago and decided to keep moving until I could sit down to write.

I am sad to hear your lead of dragon activity went cold, but I shouldn’t allow myself to be too surprised. I don’t know whether to be relieved or not that you have found yourselves at a standstill… part of me is happy to find you in peace, but I know that means no progress for your mission at hand. In the least, put up a good fight in cards. How has your company been? You have made it almost easy to forget you are shoulder-to-shoulder with Warlords on this endeavor… almost.

I have been hulled up in the national library in Melbourne trying to find any hint of a reason for this book. Most collections haven’t gone far back enough to aid, or the books have been long burned for being... “unfavorable” in nature through history.

I have not found the friend in question, but I did find a curious soul. The other night the shadows caught up to me, I had no choice but to run. I ran into a mage that was passing through this city. Can you believe that? A mage of all people. She offered a hand in getting to a safe place. Through our speaking, she is a linguist. A scholar. She believes she might be of some assistance in unraveling this book. I don’t know what to make of it all yet, but I believe she will be of help. 

Lastly… She spoke briefly of history with dragons. I’m getting the feeling that this world isn’t as big as we sometimes think.

I hope to share more news soon. In the meantime, be safe my dear friend. Don’t let the stagnation become its own enemy.

Best, 

Spencer.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

The night was silent, yet the minds of everyone in the direct vicinity were anything but. There was a certain tension that loomed over the congregation, and it grew more intense with each passing hour. The soldiers waited with bated breath, like dogs awaiting the signal to strike.

Raiya’s fair vestige mirrored level detachment, married with a veneer of feigned impassivity as she watched her bird disappear into the night sky. She sat quietly with the restlessness that boiled slowly within. There was an odd feeling in her chest somewhere that Raiya knew was neither her heart nor her lungs; the feeling was somewhere more obscure, harder to reach. 

Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.

The first breath of solar ambiance would mark the end of this nocturnal chapter, and the beginning of something else entirely.

_____

The letter arrived to Spencer in the same prompt manner as her previous one. However, Raiya’s handwriting appeared rushed this time around, an odd idiosyncrasy that may have been missed to the untrained eye. There were three photos folded up in addition to the letter itself.  

_____

It relieves me greatly that you have found another to share this journey with you. I pray that her intentions are noble and she proves to be trustworthy. The Warlords are no issue. They are as determined to finish this mission as I, and if they've got one thing going for them, it’s their team-oriented mentality.

There have been so many truths unearthed in this short amount of time. There’s so much I want to tell you. 

Chanook is alive, for one. We got confirmation when Mai returned from her raid, photos attached are what were taken at the scene. According to the prisoners Mai apprehended, Chanook was held for only three days before breaking out again. They knew Chanook by name and knew exactly who he was, which is incredibly strange and unsettling to me. They confessed that they were only successful in his capture due to his poor physical condition, and they did not treat him pleasantly in the three days he was contained here. I fear for his well-being.

We have King’s location, and are leaving at first light to finish this. If we don’t succeed -- No. Raiya paused and scratched that last sentence out.  -- I will send another letter once the mission is over. Until then, stay well and stay safe. 

 

Raiya

_____

Three photos were attached. The first one was of a very large cavern with a thick chain attached on either side of the interior. Both chains were broken, and the ground was littered with large metal shards, stone and heavy debris. The mouth of the cavern itself was cracked and broken, with some portions missing in chunks.  

The second photo was of the stone walls and ground of the large establishment surrounding them. A gargantuan gash was torn from the ground and spread up and across the walls of the interior. The gash was a deep black in color, with the off-setting ashy appearance of one large scorch mark. 

The third photo depicted what appeared to be the broken remains of a metal muzzle. A soldier stood beside it for scale, yet they could easily be overlooked due to how incredibly small they were in comparison.

- - - - - - - - - - 

S

The letter came to Spencer at night as he approached the library and looked overhead to sight the hawk. Several days had been spent in the library to no avail whether he had the linguist mage assisting or not. The restlessness led him to risky late-night shifts when the building was his own and he could go searching for the section that might have the answers. Once inside, he climbed to a second level and unlocked a window, whistling to the avian above. His station was set up with chosen books dropped on the table and a light was turned on for security. The books were ignored for the hawk on the window and the message he pulled from its leg. 

Something was… different about it. The rushed scrawl hardly matched the pleasantries of the letter’s introduction. His eyes wouldn’t scroll for long before they were frozen again. The three words in unison put ice through Spencer’s veins. His expression had fallen. The mage’s head lowered and the letter was left to rest on the table alongside the photos he took a glimpse at for the first time. He could readily imagine the sight. The figures in the photographs hadn’t escaped his attention either. His head came to rest atop closed fist while he read on. 

You’re not insane.

Spencer’s head rose again and he covered his mouth with his hand. The certainty of it seemed far too hard to believe but the photos spoke otherwise. 

He’s alive… you’re not insane.

As terrifying as the sight was, it lifted the world off the old ghost’s chest. A drop of moisture interrupted the ink on the page. Then another. Spencer wouldn’t bother to wipe his eyes as he ran a shaking hand through his hair and let himself steadily start to fall apart afterward. 

_____

Not much studying was done that night. No different than the drunk man at a bar, Spencer spent the hours red-eyed, staring down at the table and its contents. A pen was picked up at some point or another. Several renditions were written and unwritten. What he had to say couldn’t be confined to a piece of paper but it was regrettably all he had to work with. The end result was a piece of paper full of small errors scratched out and scrawled through. It was a bit of a ransom note compared to the first of his letters.

_____

Raiya,

 

After all these years… 

I believed he was alive. I was afraid of what would happen if I didn’t. I have held on to that feeling from the day we were separated. I always knew the connection was still there. I knew he was alive, but it had been so long. After Skya and Lenn- ...the sentence was heavily scratched out thereafter.

I knew I hadn’t lost him.

She said they knew his name. Where would he have gone? How long has it been..?

Raiya you don’t know how I miss you.

I need to see you... we need to talk in person. 

Please, be safe. Now more than ever.

Spencer

_____

With an exhale, the bird was sent off into the night to hopefully return. You can’t think that way, Spencer scolded himself. A seat was taken at the table once more and the photos gained his attention. When it came time to leave he tucked them into the front of his journal and departed from the library space.

- - - - - - - - - -

R

Days came and went in unceremonious precession. The skies were quiet for a time, until finally, Cyr's call announced her tardy arrival to Spencer.

It would be evedent that the handwriting on this letter was much more relaxed than Raiya's previous one;


_____

My dear Spencer-

Thank you. Thank you for never losing hope even as time wore on and all odds seemed against you. Thank you for not losing hope of Chanook's survival, hope in your bond,
And most importantly, the hope that all of the traveling, the sleepless nights, and chasing storms would not be in vain. Chanook is most fortunate to have you as a rider, I hope you never doubt that for a second. We will find him.

We have captured King. The drastic nature of this accomplishment has yet to truly sink in, but I think I can feel realization begin to dawn as I write this out. I so, so desperately wish that we could announce this to all of our fallen brethren. There's still so much I need to tell you. I miss you, Spence. Now more than ever.

Mai and the rest of the squadron are taking King back to North America, but I am staying behind to search for Chanook. His last sighting was roughly two weeks ago, so I hope he has not gone too far. Please inform me when you have completed your desired tasks wherever you are; I will send you my location, and eagerly await your arrival.

Ps: I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but come alive with the wind. What am I?

- Rai

_____

Raiya had completed the letter and took a second to read over it. Her mind was busy as she tied it to Cyr and quietly watched her hop through the window and take to the sky. Amidst the numerous thoughts and attempts to rationalize the events of the past few days, a singular written phrase kept resurfacing over and over again;

We have captured King.

There was a push and a pull in her mind as the conflicting notions swayed like a turbulent sea. She was there. Why was this concept so difficult to grasp?
Suddenly, something clicked. The click came with a jolt of realization that sent static waves straight through Raiya's core

They. Had. King.

Emotion stirred in her chest and rose to her tightening throat. Raiya's hand flew over her mouth as she stared wide-eyed out the window and to the darkening sky.
The elf's stare was still transfixed beyond the window as she began to take a few steps back. She only paused when she felt the backs of her legs brush against the mattress of her makeshift bed. The elf let herself be guided by mattress' side, and lowered herself until she was seated on the ground directly in front of it. Even though Cyr's figure was long gone, Raiya just continued to stare. Her hand finally lowered while a long, shakey inhale was drawn, held for a moment, and released. A single name was carried upon the exhale, bearing the notes of melancholic longing hardly above a whisper.

"Atheria..." Raiya let the name hover in the air for a moment. "-- We did it. I wish you were here."

- - - - - - - - - -

S

Spencer had sat for several long minutes, staring at the folded piece of paper in his hands… Cyr had delivered it soundly. The fact alone spoke volumes to the mage, but he still found himself gazing at the object in his fingertips as if it would somehow let him know what was inside. After those several minutes of tension, he made slow work of unfolding the paper. As his eyes scanned the words on the page, Spencer let a breath escape little by little and his shoulders started to slump as they lost the tension they were holding.

_____

Raiya,

I’m happy to hear that you were successful. I can’t express the weight it takes off the shoulders, and yet, those words are such a foreign thing to read after so many years… those who cannot be here to hear it would surely be smiling down on you. As am I.

Two weeks ago.

I can’t fathom it. I have been searching all these years… and now?

We ran into trouble last night, I made a foolish mistake; Marius had us cornered. Not only did we escape, I think I might have bought myself some time in the process. Admittedly… It was a setback for the library we were hulled up in. While I am no closer to knowing what that bloody sorcerer wants, I am one step closer to knowing the book’s secrets. One step closer to putting it down. 

Send me your location, I will come to you. There is no better time with my troubles on hold; If they followed it would hardly matter. I have to find him.

P.S. I can’t let a failed riddle slow down this message, but I can assure you… I’ll have an answer by the time I arrive. Here is to hoping. I hope to see you soon.

-Spencer

_____

He was captured.
He is alive.
She was safe.

The letter’s dismissal by the hawk had Spencer practically pacing behind his chair. He had made his promise, now it was time to wait. The following days would be spent impatiently at best, not that there wasn’t work to be done in the meantime.

9858874491?profile=RESIZE_584x

To be continued . . .

Read more…

Carnival of Carnage - IC main chat event

Event date: October 5th, 2017. 2:30pm Pacific Time

Participants: Samantha Giddings (DM)Europa & Cassius (DM), Nikolas Everett (Omega) (DM), June MooneRaiya 

-  -  - 

 

Omega Ω

     Words spoken, the portal opened, the setting around the Vessel and the Jabberwocky had altered with their passage. In front of them lie the door to Sanctum as they approached, to which Nikolas yanked it open, holding it ajar for her. "It's not New York... just a pit stop. Welcome to Sanctum Cafe." He spoke to Europa, a half grin visible in preparation for her reaction.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa stumbled out of the portal, eyes wide with wonder with just a hint of adorable confusion. Her jaw loosened, allowing her full lips to part as she looked the doors up and down, pulling on the hem of her long black shirt, which was the only thing the Mediterranean wore. "Wow...it's amazing!" Euro exclaimed happily, grinning broadly up to Nik, putting a dimple in each cheek. She reached out to snag his hand and began to pull him inside, if allowed. She glanced around, wide eyed like a kid in a candy store, nose twitching as she gathered all the scents she could. "Sanctum...."

 

Omega Ω

     "It's a coffee shop. A place people sit and talk... other things too. A lot of supernaturals come to meet here, there's portals all over the world." Nik explained as he was dragged into the space, eyeing the counter with the intent of coffee, but something else had struck him all the same. The sight of the tent lingering outside the building was new. For now, he made no mentioning, watching as she explored the building. They'd stay for a little, perhaps. Get their footing before another portal to where he considered home. In the least... that was the plan.

 

June Moone

     In a corner booth, a young woman of approximately 19 years sat leaning over a hoard of books, some opened and some closed. All of them titled with something related to witchcraft and demons. A few of them were spread open in front of her, and she seemed to be so into her reading she didn't even notice the people entering the cafe. Not that she'd see them anyway, as the piled of books around her, completely encased her, making her oblivious to her surroundings. Then, she seemed to have been startled by a piece of information in the book she was currently reading, and with a quick jerk of her arm she accidentally struck one of the towers of books, causing it to topple over and crash down on the floor book after book, creating quite the disturbance in the otherwise quite calm atmosphere.

 

Raiya

     The sudden crash caused another quiet patron to flinch and disrupt her out of an attentive trance. Eyes snapped from the current book she had been reading and over to the cause of the noise. “Do you need help with that?” The woman’s offer came forth while she rose from her seat and approached. However, no motion to retrieve the books was made until confirmation was administered.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     "Coff-ee shop." Europa repeated, squinting up at the menu in confusion. "Maybe they have a por-tul back to my home. Pangea!" She exclaimed, looking up hopefully to Nik, and then she squinted up to a nearby poster, one depicting an upcoming carnival. The Jabberwocky couldn't quite read all of the details, but all the vibrant colors and abstract designs captivated the young woman. "Oh, Nik! We should go to the Ca...Carr..." She couldn't read it. "Can we? Can we please?" Before he could answer, she looked over her shoulder as a new woman entered the Cafe, and she grinned, moving to look over June's head down at the words...which she also could not read. "It must be nice to read, Book Lady!"

 

Omega Ω

     "I dunno... hard to say. You've gotta be careful with the portals though." He stated, obvious in his own case of running into her. "A what..?" Well... that explained the tent. At the sound, Nik's head turned all the same. Keeping an eye on Europa all the while as she wandered, examining the books on the floor. Before he could speak to assist, another familiar tone seemingly beat him to it. "Hey, Raiya... didn't think we'd meet here of all places." He murmured. Nik flashed a coy smile.

Samantha Giddings

     Sam entered the cafe, her hair up in a messy ponytail, and red hoodie so big it sunk to her denim covered knees. Hazel eyes look around curiously and she offers a wave to Europa.

 

June Moone

     June looked over toward Europa first, quickly closing the book in front of her before reaching to the end of the table to look at the fallen books. She then looked over towards the other woman who'd also been reading and was offering to help with the fallen books. June gestures towards her and replies. "It'd be great, thank you. I'm sorry I caused such tumult." She said, before turning towards Europa again. "Generally reading is nice, yes. But this is not pleasure reading, unfortunately", she replied with a slightly worried expression. Her glasses enhancing her already naturally large eyes, and defined eyebrows.

Raiya

     “Not to worry~” Upon confirmation, the raven stooped and began to collect the books off of the floor. The sound of her name drew her attention to peer curiously over her shoulder, and a smile was offered in recognition. “Funny how that works. Nikolas, was it?” The words and the expression of unease from the other woman did not go unheeded. She took a glance towards her before working to stack the books in their previous places.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Ah! Europa remembered Sam! "Forest Wanderer!" She exclaimed happily. "I didn't think I'd see you here." But then she glanced back down to June. "Pleasure reading..." Europa repeated before suddenly dropping to all fours and bolting back to Nik's side. In a fluid leap, she would crawl on to his back, surprisingly light, weighing no more than a child. Strange. "Nik! We must got to the C-A-i don't know those letters-I-don't know that either, or that-A-L!"

 

Samantha Giddings

     "The carnival?" Sam piped up. It was free tonight. She was excited for it, and her smile extended over to Nikolas and the others. "Who's thinking about going? You don't even need tickets." Heck. She was already gathering her stuff. She just wanted to get her salad.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     And suddenly, a leopard was stalking into the Cafe, letting out tiny chuffs to the people in his surroundings, The giant cat leapt upon a table, lying down before shifting in this human form, an Arabic man- Cassius Nazari, who else?

 

Omega Ω

     "I guess... I don't know." Nikolas shrugged. Blinking, he looked over to Europa. "Hey, Euro... you want to stick around for a little while?"

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa peered over his shoulder, clinging to his back with a grin on her face. "Yes we can see the...what Sam said!" She grinned. "Am I allowed to shift here, since this is sanct-um not the New of York?"

 

Omega Ω

     "Ah..." Nik looked around. It was sanctum, wasn't it? "I don't see why not, sure."

 

June Moone

      Upon hearing the words of the Carnival, June stopped for a moment, holding a few books in her hands that she'd picked up from the floor. A small frown made its way between her brows. She could use some happy distraction right now. And she'd always loved carnivals, being an artist on the side and all that. She then looked at the one who'd helped her, smiling carefully. "Thank you." She then looked towards Nik and Europa, and shifted for a second towards the man who'd just been a leopard a moment ago, then back towards Nik and Europa. Then towards Sam. "There's a carnival?"

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     "Good!" Europa said, before giant antlers began to emerge from her scalp, adorned with white roses, the same antlers she possessed in her Saturn form. EJ carefully reached up and plucked a white rose from her antlers, only for another blossom to come forth. She leaned down to hand the rose to Nik. "For you. The roses of a Saturn bring good fortune!"

 

Samantha Giddings

     "Yeah! It's free tonight." Sam replied to June. The posters had been all over the cafe. The classic lettering with golden corners, red, black and white stripes splashed against the paper to make a tent advertised the first night Cirque De La Nuit was in town, set up a parking lot away from the cafe. There was a large fence that prevented from seeing what was inside, but the tops of tents and booths peered over, and loud carnival music played. Tonight was the opening night, free for all. Sam looked at the time and then the time at the poster and did a double take. "Oh snap, the gates are opening!" She got up to put on her jacket, and looked over at her new friend Europa and Omega, then grinned. "Are you coming? All we have to do is wait in line. Seems pretty small right now." In fact, there was no line, but already, people were flocking.

 

(( DM Notes )):

Omega Ω

     As June came up to join them, he gave a nod in confirmation. "Looks like it.” Looking to Europa as she shifted, he waited until she had before tilting his head towards the start of the line. "Looks like if we're going in, we'd better get in line."

 

Raiya

     The last of the books were fetched from the floor and placed back where they were. Raiya listened to the conversations around her – quiet, until the curiosity of a repeating word took hold. “Pardon my ignorance, but what exactly is a carnival?”

Samantha Giddings

     "It's a place of entertainment. Like... shows and stuff." Sam said, moving to walk out the door.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa snaked her way down off of Nik, nodding. "I'm excited...even though I don't know what a carnival is." She said cheerfully, stepping into line, grinning. And meanwhile, Cassius thought he'd join the others, why not? The Arab slid off of the table, and alighted over into line.

 

June Moone

     June's face lit up for a second. "I could really use the distraction!" She proclaimed, and stood up, leaving the book covered table. "I'll take care of the books when I get back, don't worry."

 

Omega Ω

     "Another new experience, that's what it is." Nik grinned. "I went to one when I was younger, that was about it." He stepped into line just behind Europa, looking up to the tent's peaks.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam was grinning wide. The gates creaked open and a crowd that had formed behind pushed in a crazed rush, pushing the patrons of the cafe forward. As soon as they had been pushed forward the gates shut behind them in a slam! Carnival music played eerily and thick fog and the crowd that was once around them ran into the fog. If the patrons looked close enough, they might see that the people of the crowd seemed to vanish completely. Then? There was a woman speaking over the P.A system. “It’s time. Welcome to Cirque de la Nuit!” In front of them were lines of booths and small tents, and at the very end was the large white and red tent, large enough for the possible wooden classic arena. “Now, you may enjoy this in large groups…” The voice boomed, the voice high pitched and crazed. “Or you may go off separately. The choice is yours.” Sam, who had been with them all, looked up at the speakers, overwhelmed by the music. “What’s the plan?”

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     She seemed mesmerized by all the antics, waiting for the doors to open. "I think you shall show me many things, Nicolas. I feel it." She looked over her shoulder at him before entering the doors. Her smile suddenly fell as the doors slammed behind her, and she jumped at the sound of the speakers. "S-Sam? Nik? What's going on?"

 

Raiya

     A slight frown dipped upon Raiya’s features while her eyes swept around the surroundings. A sense of growing apprehension evident, and the music did nothing to sooth any doubts. A glance was offered to Europa. “I’m… sure it’s all part of the act.”

 

Omega Ω

     The doors slammed behind them, and Nik blinked. Casting a look back almost concerned, until the voice over the intercom threw his attention upwards. He looked to Europa when she jumped, stepping into the carnival further as the people vanished. "I... don't know." He mumbled. All the while... did his head feel clearer? The demon felt oddly absent within the space. He glanced back at Raiya's reassurance, taking it to heart some. A glance over to June, and he started walking further in. "Well... might as well look around."

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam felt something sink in her stomach. The music wasn't so joyful. The place seemed... abandoned. And did anyone else smell the rotting things- wood and... bodies? "Stick together?" She looked at the others. "Or do we split off into smaller groups?"

 

June Moone

     A feeling of discomfort made it through June's spine as she speakers boomed. She'd just gotten inside, right behind the others. Something made her uneasy about this, but maybe it was just the fog. She looked around and didn't quite understand how the people around them could've vanished in the fog so quickly. She was reminded of her time in the Jungle. A fog had rolled in, making June lose track of the rest of the explorers. Which was when she uncovered the tomb that would forever haunt her. "Am I the only one who doesn't like all this mist around here?" June looked at Sam. "Stick together. Trust me. Splitting up is not a good idea, not in fog this thick."

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa looked to Raiya, wetting her lips. "I really hope you're right..." She looked back to Nik, swallowing hard. "Nik...your companion is gone. And..." She held up her hands. "I can't...I can't shift! Or anything, I...." She wrinkled her nose, her sense of smell much stronger than a humans, picking up the scent of death.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     "I know... my head feels calm for once, it's strange." Oh, look. Omega was already wandering off. Taking to a direction to the left, he was looking around through the fog, sifting as his feet moved. His nose wrinkled to the smell of the place... what was that?

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     "Wait up for us-" She looked over at June, Europa, Cassius and Raiya. Chills ran up her spine again. "Where should we look first?" There were so many tents and booths. Then the one large tent, with the white and red stripes...

 

Raiya

     The longer one took to analyze the surroundings, the more unsettling they became. Smells and sights did not quite align into something as appealing as the posters had advertised. They had been walking for quite a while, and….what was that smell? /Her heart began to race just a bit faster. “We should probably keep together, just until we figure out what is going on…”

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa felt her spine tingle before she looked to June. "Come on, book lady!" She said before bounding after Omega. The entire group would eventually would come to a giant tent, where loud, raucous music emitted. "Come one, come all, see the acrobats defy everything you thought you knew!" A voice boomed inside, as well as flashing lights

 

June Moone

     June hurried after Europa, gesturing towards Sam and the other to follow. "I think the fog will be lighter inside!"

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     Following the sight of the tent and the sound of the announcer inside, he glanced back to see followers to his wandering. Waiting up, he stopped by the door momentarily before stepping in. The fog had subsided ever so slightly, the sight of the bars and swings lingering up above for the acrobatics show. "This place is just... strange."

 

 June Moone

     "I have a really bad feeling about this place... And.." She stopped herself, not wanting to share her dark secret. It'd probably just worsen the situation, knowing that one of them was a homicidal moon witch goddess thing. June didn't quite know herself. "Maybe we should get back to the cafe soon?"

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     "How will we go back? The gates were closed..." Sam said, wanting to run. She thought back to the lodge. "And what if all these... odd things follow us back?"

Raiya

     “It /is/ October….chances are they are making it unsettling to fit the season-?” Her voice was kept feathery in attempts to ease the tension that hung heavily over the group. Even she was not /quite/ convinced of her own words, evident by the careful scanning of the props and foggy interior. Something still tingled within the back of her mind… a warning, perhaps.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Inside, was nothing short of a horror show. The floor of the tent was a giant pentagram, pulsing red light. Unlike what June had suspected, the fog was even thicker, one could barely see in front of them. However, there were the outlines of bodies hanging from nooses down from the tent ceiling. In the very center of the tent, the fog had cleared, and acrobats dressed in black-and-white striped suits swung from said nooses. Smiles had been permanently cut into the gymnasts faces as they did so, scarring around their mouths and ripping apart their lips.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     "AH-!" The sound of air rushing was greeted by the glint of something metal swinging through the air. Nikolas ducked suddenly, feeling the edge of something sharp brushing the top of his hair. Falling to the ground and scrambling backwards he looked up, the sight of the acrobats overhead causing his eyes to widen. "What the Hell!?"

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

    The knife Omega had ducked clattered onto the floor. Sam picked it up, and what light broke through the fog glinted onto it. "Oh my god. We... We have to get out of here."

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa let out an animalistic screech as knives seemed to fly from all directions. "Nik! Sam!" She cried. "Book lady!" She ducked, one flying dagger still managing to nick her exposed thigh, blood oozing forth from the muscle. Again, a screech escaped her lips. Out of fear, she crouched, ready to bolt in a matter of seconds.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     Staring at the knife wordlessly, Nik blinked. His eyes went to search for Europa, catching glance of Raiya in the fog. Overall, keeping his eyes on the figured overhead. This wasn't good. "Europa!" He yelled when she seemed to cry out in pain. getting back to his feet he'd scramble over to her, stumbling onto his knees when another knife was swung by the grotesque acrobat that passed overhead.

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     And another knife was swinging down. Think fast people~ One was coming for that sweet face of June Moone, ready to slice open a cheek if possible. Sam realized something with horror. Some of the ribbons weren't made of silk or rope. Guts. Intestines. She ducked under the stand, gagging.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     And where was Raiya and Cassius? The carnies weren't scared to try to swing down with a kick or two~

 

June Moone

     "I hope you're right. I hope this is all just a big halloween prank.. But I don't. I think we should all just try to remain calm no matter what happens." Although, she was mostly speaking for herself. She knew what happened when she was not in control, and this place.... This place made her grasp of her own mind weaker. She was struggling to remain control. It didn't help that Europa shouted towards her, followed by a few knives flying close to June. "What the-" She quickly fell to the ground, and crawled to hide anywhere. Her face was painted by sheer panic now.

 

 Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa turned as she picked up on his voice, crawling to meet him half way, blood creating a red sheen over her long leg. She looked up to Nik, but then covered her head as a monstrous acrobat swung overhead, and she let out a shriek. EJ grasped Nik's arm. "We need to go!"

 Raiya

     Eyes widened, throat tightened as adrenaline rushed through her limbs. The whirring of blades and the harrowing cries drew her attention back right before chaos took hold. “Everybody look for cover!” She ducked, narrowly avoiding a blade that zipped right past her face. Attempts to conjure a barrier was feeble, so she took up a fallen blade in attempts to bat away any oncoming weaponry and she darted back towards the group. The fog made it difficult to see.

 

June Moone

     Her mind was occupied by one single word now. 'enchantress, enchantress, enchantress, enchantress, enchantress, enchantress'. Over and over again, and she was too afraid to open her mouth. Tears began to form in her eyes as she clawed against her shoulders, curling up on the ground with every single muscle in her body tensed.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Oh? OH? Sam stared at June. What was she doing? "Hey, get up!" She moved over to put a hand on June's shoulder. Survival was a must.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     "The door! C'mon!" Nikolas hollered, searching for the others in the fog. "Stay low!" They had to get moving... but WHERE WAS the exit?

June Moone

     The young woman only shook her head shakily as a reply towards Sam. She just couldn't. She couldn't move. Whatever happened, she was not allowed to do anything. She had to remain focused - in control...

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     June might feel drained as she tried to call upon the enchantress. "Everyone will die if we wait here for you." So Sam was stooping low. "Let me carry you out.."

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Just then, one grotesque acrobat dropped, that vicious, mutilated smile flashing. Pus oozed from his mouth as he parted his lips, holding up an ignited sword. He stuck the blade right down his throat, spinning around as he removed the sword, and spewing fire, sending the fog drifting away. A fat, pot bellied announcer was dead center of the tent. "And welcome tonight to the THRILL of a lifetime, a treat truly of the most extravagant kinds! No tickets, you say!? The cost is none other than your soul!" He said, laughing into the mic. And there- THERE was the exit, blocked by the fire the acrobat had breathed. And he was preparing to spew flames again, straight for the group, but who would take most of the damage if they did not move? Sam and June.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     As the fog scattered, Europa staggered to her feet, grimacing in pain and wailing through her grit teeth. "Sam! Book Lady! Look out!" She stumbled back, grabbing on to Omega, still not noticing the exit.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam would be tugging on June. But she wouldn't stay so long that she caught on fire. She wanted to help, but life was precious. Adrenaline jumped at her, as she felt flames lick at the bare of her arm, exposed when she had rolled up her red sleeves earlier. That would leave a burn.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     "That way!" Nikolas yelled, pointing. Taking Europa's arm he looked for where the fog had cleared, seeing the exit. Tugging her towards it he eyed the acrobat closely, pulling them out of the line of flames before their reach. His grip tugged harder as he made a bolt for the doorway of the tent, seeing the outside the closer they became.

 

June Moone

     June took a deep breath, she clawed her way to her feet, but remained crouched. "GO!" She shouted towards sam. "I-" Her words were incredibly forced. "I have to remain in control, or she...." She hunched over as if trying not to vomit "She will take control!" Referring to the witch possessing her body. The Enchantress too was weakened by this place, but still strong enough to nearly take hold of poor June's mind. "Hurry!" She shouted, as she too began to run, still crouched, to the side - escaping the flames.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     The acrobat inhaled deeply once he drew the blade from his mouth, releasing a sea of flames but- DRAT. The fire would lick at June and Sam but they were out of there!

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa let out a yelp in pain but she clung tightly to Omega, hobbling quickly to escape as they both headed for the exit.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam was running. Damn. It was like she was being chased by a wendigo all over again. As soon as they were out, Sam was inspecting her arm. "What a jerk." She grumbled, her face scrunching up.

Omega Ω (DM)

     Once outside the tent, Nik took a deep breath of relief and looked back. When nothing seemed to follow them out he checked his head for blood- nothing. "Euro... you alright?" He kept his eyes peeled around the carnival grounds in the meanwhile.

 

June Moone

     "AAH" Crying out from the heat of the flames, June stumbled, falling to the ground again, tumbling around and ended up flat on the ground. But she managed to crawl onto her knees and continue her way towards where she'd seen Nik move.

 

Raiya

     “Come on, we have to keep moving!” Urgency riddled her voice as the group carefully made their way past the flames. Attention was fixed on the fire and the acrobat, for the time being, yet… wait, what was that? Something else caught her attention amidst the fog and the smoke that was threatening a coughing fit. The elf glanced over at the group for a moment and back at… whatever had glinted from another section of the vicinity.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     Hearing another's footsteps, he looked back in relief seeing the girl who had once been merely reading. When nothing seemed to come after worked to catch his breath, checking again for the demon... nothing. His eyes looked to Raiya where she stood, seemingly staring off into the fog. "Wha... What is it?" He exclaimed, face paled.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa's heart pounded against the wall of her chest, putting a hand over the bleeding stab wound on her leg, cursing in her ancient Pangean tongue. However, her midnight gaze trained on Raiya, beginning to feel even more terror overcome her.

June Moone

     June came soon, crawling out of the tent, the left side of her clothes were slightly blackened and ripped by the flames. She was oblivious to the potential coming threat, and was just relieved to have gotten out of there. She crawled her way onto her feet, finally calmed down enough to stay in control of herself. "WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT BACK THERE?!" She shouted in a still panicked voice. "WHAT THE FUCK WAS IT?! WHAT IS THIS PLACE?!"

 

Raiya

     She looked at the gleam, looked at Nik, then back to the gleam in the fog. There was no way they were going to go back and find the first entrance, so a new strategy came to play. “Everyone, this way.” She skirted around a stray tongue of flame before going towards whatever it is she had seen. Her eyes snapped towards anything that moved, caution heightened even as they pulled away from the fire.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     At that, Europa turned once to look back at the flames, beginning to stagger after Raiya.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     They were back outside the tents. "I... I am never going to the circus again. We need to find a first aid kit or something and a way out of here." Her burn wasn't so bad. She turned to look at June and Raiya, before Omega and Europa. And then they were on the move. "Look... Obviously something isn't OK. Like you told me..." June was being faced with Sam. Sam was oddly calm. But then again, this was nothing like the lodge. "We need to remain calm. Let's keep moving, ok? We gotta figure it out on the way."

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     Nik stood up straight, now. Taking deep breaths, still eyeing the tent entry. He glanced to Sam and then finally June. "Calm down! You have to...-" To Raiya's call, his head snapped in that direction again, shaken. When Europa had started to move, he did the same. Following aimlessly in the direction that was not-the-tent.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     And that's when Sam noticed the writings outside on the tents. Blood, drying, and odd sigils. "The fuck..." She mumbled.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     As Europa followed Raiya as hastily as she could, she caught eye of a carousel in the distance, spinning around and around...the horses matching the steeds that the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse would've ridden. Atop them? Decaying bodies, their heads covered by the severed necks and heads of male goats.

Omega Ω (DM)

     Nikolas shuddered when the carousel came into view... he smelled it before he saw it, and he wished he hadn't done either. Sticking close to Europa now, he followed after Raiya all the same.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam was watching the area around, staying back with June. The music that croaked out into the air wasn't even carnival music anymore. And Sam felt regret that she never bothered with Latin, or maybe she could understand the lyrics pounding out in scratched noises.

June Moone

     June took a few deep breaths and extinguished some of the cinders still burning on her shirt, clenching her teeth as her hand slammed against her slightly burned skin. She looked towards Nik, Rai, and Euro, then back at Sam. "Need to catch up" She spoke through her teeth as she began to move towards the rest of the group. Her skin was bruised and dirty, and pears of sweat dripped from her face. She didn't pay much attention to the music, if she had, she might've been able to understand the lyrics as she knew latin from studying both Roman and Roman English artifacts, texts and culture.

 

Raiya

     The elven’s eyes narrowed at the sight of the carousel. Her pace slowed somewhat, keeping sure that everyone in the group was still present. The gleam grew brighter, more vibrant through the fog until its source became clear: A machine of sorts, riddled with odd scripts and glass panels that stared blankly at the patrons. A single lever was offered forth, the ending nob shaped into a gold skull. “…What is this thing?”

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa was beginning to sweat, blonde hair plastered to her neck and forehead. "An oracle?" She had lived with them on Pangea.

Omega Ω (DM)

     "It's a fortune teller... most normal carnivals have them." Nikolas responded as he approached, tilting his head. "Press the button, maybe it'll tell us something." From the neighboring tent, although the interior was pitch dark... he could have sworn he felt eyes upon him.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     And Sam was coming forward, slipping a quarter or two into the machine before slapping that button. The 'woman' came to life, and she stepped back. Her voice, the fortune teller's voice, was just /wrong/. "Ah, so what do you want to know about your future? One question from the doomed." Her lips curled up into a smile.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa leaned over to June, eyebrows knitting once she caught sight of June's bruised skin. "I shall give you a rose for good luck....when we make it out of here." A SCREECH then escaped Europa at the sound of the bone chilling voice.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     And in the background? "Non sanctum non potestis salvi fieri." The song was creaking out more words...

 

Raiya

     Raiya’s shoulders tensed in anticipation as Sam stepped forward. Habits drove her to scan their surroundings every few seconds, intent on picking up any foreign motions before further threats could arise.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa's voice croaked when she finally laid eyes on the woman. "...Will we live?" She asked.

June Moone

     June forced a smile towards Europa. "That's very sweet of you." She cringed for a second, letting out a pained groan. "Though, I'm not sure I will get out of here... At least not las I am now" she continued.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     The fortune teller’s lever was pulled... what happened was seemingly nothing at first. The carnival fell oddly silent other than the words of the machine and Europa's question that lingered. Off to the left however he heard sounds...

...growls. A shiver went down his spine at the sound, glancing into the tent's darkness. Silhouettes appeared, one by one, smoke rising off canine pelts as what seemed like hounds of hell had stepped out, half-fleshless maws snarling. "RUN!" Nik screamed after a moment of staring, wide eyed. He suddenly turned and bolted- as should the rest. One by one the beast came out running, snapping their bloodied jaws at each.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam only caught a quick glance at the hell hounds. Some looked like potential circus animals, scales on tails, dark stripes ripping a pattern onto their bloodied coats and thick manes catching around their throats. They didn't go for the weakest. They went for the stronger ones, those who would challenge them. They wanted a /fight./

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa's eyes widened, and she bolted, naturally dropping down on to all fours. Like this, she could cover much more ground than the humans...but, she was too fast. She found herself stopping in her tracks, whirling around to let her fleeing friends run past her. Jaw's bared, tusks broke their way through the skin of her jaw. She remained on all fours, ready to swing the massive ivory tusks at the hellhounds. She would protect her friends!

 

June Moone

     Right before the music stopped, June managed to snap out the last few words. "That doesn't sound good..." Then she noticed the same growls as Nik. He eyes darted towards the beast that had emerged from the tent, and her eyes widened in terror. "I can't do this anymore..." She said as she stumbled backwards, unable to get a grip on the ground with her feet,

Raiya

     “Run, Find another way out!” Motions were set into action, determination set. She grabbed hold of the skull-topped lever from the machine and, placing a foot on the machine for leverage, the elf tore it off the hinges. Eyes narrowed, attention sharpened, the fae shifted the new weapon from one hand to another to test its weight. One side blunt, another side sharp and spear-like, she stood her ground against the oncoming animals.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     In the background, not far from when he had bolted, an air splitting scream came from Nik. Fangs sank into flesh as he was grounded, yells of pain and horror originating as a trio of wolves overtook his figure... little by little the noise stopped. From the corner of June's eye, another beast approached. A lion-like beast was closing in, make partially engulfed in flame, jagged fangs bared with a grotesque roar escaping.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     "Nikolas!" Europa cried out, tears burning her eyes. She pounded against the ground with her arms, leaping to his defense, one of those strange tusks piercing a hellhound in the side, blood staining ivory.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     A wolven beast had meanwhile approached the elf, coming in full sprint towards Raiya. When close enough it lunged towards where she held her stance, rotted fangs snapping for the woman's throat.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam was trying to dart for the tents. Her head was unclear on what to do, people were dropping like flies left and right, the music was so /stressful./

 

Raiya

     Familiarity was evident, albeit distant. She charged towards the wolf, quickly closing the space between them. Raiya stooped onto a knee at last minute, shoving the makeshift spear forwards and upwards with the intention of impaling its head through the underside of its jaw.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     As the object struck the wolf, a horrific squeal of a sound split the air. Falling limp its weight fell at Raiya's feet, black flames engulfing the corpse as it rotted down to none. Out of a corner tent, another hell-born lion charged for Sam. Snapping its jaws the beast was closing in rapidly.

June Moone

     June was nearly paralyzed by fear now. The fear so strong, she didn't even feel the presence of the Enchantress anymore, which in a way was a relief to her. But she had no time to feel free, for she noticed the terrible creature coming her way, and she quickly began to crawl backwards, and without looking where she was going, she was pinned to a pole of sorts, her hands, clawing all around her in hopes of finding something sharp.

 

Raiya

     Raiya pulled the spear out of the wolf’s head before it burst into flames. A quick glance towards sam and the charging lion drove her to bolt in her direction. “Sam, catch!” A large shard of glass was tossed. It was the only thing within reach – whether Sam caught it or not was based on how quickly she could react.

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Sam went to get the shard, but as she turned, she felt fangs of the beast sink into her throat. Oh no. It was.... too late. That glass slipped out of her hands, as her body was torn apart.

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     The second lion leaped for June where she crawled, it's jaws sinking into the flesh of her leg without remorse, shaking roughly from side to side. Letting go only to charge for her throat, there was a grotesque, wet 'SNAP' as it met its mark.

June Moone

     There was a moment the former archaologist finally felt free. Completely free. As blood poured into her lungs, her entire body stale from the broken neck, and the darkness fading from her eyes, she no longer felt the need to fight. She was relieved. And yet, something fought for her to keep going. Something deep down told her she had to live. But the voice soon faded.

Omega Ω (DM)

     From behind Europa... the heat of flames were felt. One by one the acrobats had come down from their perches, snagging onto her arms and legs wildly. With each one's grasp, the burn of their fangs sinking into her flesh was felt. Suddenly, one by one... they began to pull. Each going their separate ways flesh would follow, threatening to tear her to pieces.

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa was too shocked to even react. The ripping, the tearing, the agony as skin began to split, entrails spilling. She couldn't even hear herself scream anymore- all she could see were the blade again, as the priests sawed away at her arms, her legs, her torso, all she could hear was Ibsi'tu's crying as he watched the girl he had raised be sawed apart. And all was black.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Oh but Raiya, things were about the change for her. One hellhound leapt, sinking its thick jaws into Raiya's arm, then threw her to the ground, the bone snapping under the pressure. And then, the hound began to drag Raiya away, towards a dark tent, crushing her arm even further.

Raiya

     She did not even have time to register Sam’s horrific fate when she felt a sharp pain to her arm. Her breath hitched in her throat -- an odd mix between a gasp and a cry of pain which was swiftly severed as she collided with the ground. Her other hand worked desperately to loosen the beast’s jaw from her arm, kicking at the beast in furious attempt to get away. Teeth gritted in a hiss as her vision began to blur. Pain crashed in heavy waves as she was dragged away.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     That’s when things got weird. A woman, the same one from the posters, whose name was Madame Nuit, whose name translated into Lady Night, stepped by Raiya. The hounds stood by her side, loyal as ever, eating at her friends. "This is it." Outside, the screams of her friends could be heard, and Lady Night looked over at Raiya.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     Her face was dried and cracked with blood, and in her hand was a knife. “The sacrifice. Lives lost for a single life.” The knife lifted, and slashed through the air. But she shook and shook violently, the poor circus owner couldn’t do it. “I… I just can’t.” And then came the devil. His hair was dark, but his skin was bright red and horns twisted out of his forehead. A cruel smile flickered over to Raiya, and then the Madame. “The last sacrifice to get a child. All of this, a grand show, for what?!?” And the fog rolled into her, and the hounds crashed, and teeth flashed and… Suddenly, the violence seemed to end.

     The circus, the tents, the monsters, the carnies, the blood, the gore? In a blink of an eye, it seemed to vanish and everyone, was back at the cafe. Some might be still injured, and others perfectly fine. “I know you might be confused.” A curling, deep, demonic voice boomed. And there sitting on the counter top with a cigarette hanging from in between his teeth was the devil himself again, but this time dressed as a white man in a suit. It was obvious who he was though, because he literally had a tag that said ‘HI! I’M..’ And then in bolder, messier print. ‘....SATAN. OR ONE OF HIM.’ “But quite frankly, the circus owners, even with the help of myself, just couldn’t kill enough of you in time. The deal they made? Void. I’ll be taking the circus and leaving most of you alone… unless you guys get caught up in another deal.” His eyes, black through and through searched their faces, and I guess you could say a devilish grin crossed his face before he poofed up in smoke, leaving the group to recover from the horror they experienced.

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     At that, the tents, the hounds, the acrobats, the carousel, they all began to evaporate into black mist, being blown away in the wind, turning the clouds a dark gray as if tainted by ash. And as for the patrons? Sanctum. The world had returned to the Cafe.

Raiya

     She froze at the sight of the woman. Eyes widened, echoing with Pain, fear, confusion… anger. Her motions were slow to react as the knife came down upon her. Her eyes closed in anticipation of the cruel execution, and then --… voices. They were back in the café. She was kneeling on the ground, one hand clutching her bloodied arm while breaths came swift and heavy. She blinked a few times, trying to clear her thoughts. A moment or two of dead silence, followed by a shaky sigh. “So… so that was… a carnival, huh?”

 

Omega Ω (DM)

     Nikolas' eyes snapped open, horror stuck within them yet as he looked around- ...it was the cafe. His heart rate coming down, he glanced about his body, trembling horribly but... he was alive. Looking out the window he didn't see the tent where it once stood. Not so much as a hole from the fence posts. The fog had lifted. Silently he looked around at the others, wondering if it was in his head. It couldn't have been. "A... Are you... are you guys alright..?"

 

Europa & Cassius (DM)

     Europa sat up with a sudden gasp, hyperventilating. She looked around wildly, hands flying to her legs, her torso, her forearms. "N...No- Ibsi'tu!" She screamed, before bolting away. And that was the last of EJ before she was up the stairs to find a place to hide from the world.

 

Samantha Giddings (DM)

     "That was /hell/. I'm gonna scope out the place next time on yelp." She touched the burn on her arm. "We all need first aid?"

 

Read more…

. N I G H T W I N G .

|| - N I G H T W I N G . D R A C O N I A N . E M P I R E - ||

Part 1 of 2

 

It began as rumors uttered among the Wolves.

     Iscariot and the creatures of the surrounding territories were under threat of one they called WRATH, and with him, a beast said to breath fire. Raiya had heard stories of such beasts from the villages she had visited in the past and numerous books she came across, but never before had she  actually seen one aside from images strewn in ink and visions fabricated by imagination.

     That is, until she one day caught a momentary glimpse of a massive red beast soaring in the distance. The sighting was brief, but the Elf was immediately and unreservedly captivated.

     Being the bold and curious creature that she was, Raiya traveled to where the Red Dragon was spotted, despite the fact that she was trespassing on what may have been Warlord territory. She managed to slink past enemy eyes and approached the Dragon while she was apart from Wrath. She learned that the dragoness’ name was Yuurei.

     Raiya was very wary at first, especially when Yuurei displayed mild hostility upon their initial meeting. However, Raiya found that winged beast was not nearly  the vile monster that others had painted her to be. Yes, she was guilty of taking pleasure in destruction, yet a majority of the slaughter she partook in were driven by her Rider's commands. 

     Raiya continued to visit Yuurei whenever she could. The Elf enjoyed the Dragoness’ company very much, and the two soon became friends despite the animosity between Raiya and Yuurei’s Rider. It bothered the elven very much to see a creature of this magnificence under the command of a demon who sought to slaughter non-human creatures. She brought up the subject just sparingly, yet found herself quickly dropping it when Yuurei reprimanded her for questioning her bond.

 

     There was a lengthy expanse of time. Raiya had a decent share of fallouts between the Warlords Wrath, Creed and Eric, as well as other members of the Army. She found herself always on guard and exceedingly wary of newcomers, yet there soon came another source of unrest upon the lands:

 

Word spread quickly about a vicious newcomer: a Black Dragon.

 

 

     Once more stimulated by curiosity and the desire to meet another creature like Yuurei, Raiya sought out this new Dragon. However, things did not go exactly as planned; Raiya underestimated the Dragon, and quickly found out the stories were correct: The new Dragoness was not nearly as compatible as Yuurei.

     The Dragoness ATTACKED Raiya on sight with the furious intent to kill. The elven could do nothing but run to avoid the snapping teeth, battering talons and torrents of flame that followed her. Wounded and cornered, She was certain she had met her end, but to her utmost relief, Yuurei swooped in and stood between Raiya and her attacker. The red and the black quarreled verbally for a few moments, yet there was no further hostility or physical brawl between the two: they seemed to know each other. Yuurei ordered the other dragoness not to harm Raiya, and the Black reluctantly flew away.

     Raiya did not see or even hear from the Black for a very long time after that. She did later learn the name of dragoness: KAIDA.

 

     The Elf soon began to stray farther and farther from the wolves’ domain. As she traveled further out, she began to meet creatures she never thought existed: War-beasts, many talking animals, beings she could hardly describe and creatures that even resembled her breed. 

     Venturing from safety did have its dangers; despite the fact that she had a knack of befriending creatures and people she came across, her ‘adventures’ were often scattered with hunters, mercenaries, unfriendly demons and creatures that were associated with the Warlord army. Yet with every fight, ambush and hostile encounter, the Elf became stronger and much more confident in her own abilities.

She made friends, she lost friends, got into mischief and got into trouble. Each encounter was a learning experience for her. Details of the said adventures are scattered into an unorganized plethora of memories; Memories that Raiya is always more than happy to share with others in the form of stories. 

 

     There came a day where the elf was approached by a familiar black Dragoness: Kaida. She was much larger than last time Raiya saw her, but there was no aggression displayed. Kaida apologized for her hostile first meeting, and spoke of a vast new Territory that she and Yuurei had claimed. Raiya learned that the two dragonesses had banded together and recruited other Dragons into a tribe; a tribe they had named NIGHTWING.

     Kaida offered Raiya to join and to stay with the Dragons in the new, rich territory. Raiya agreed. Kaida allowed the elf to ride upon her back and took Raiya to her new home.

An entirely new age, an entirely new life  had been born. 

 

________________________________________________________________

~*~

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.O r i g i n s.

The beginning is hazy, much like how one never remembers the beginning of a d r e a m. 

 

     Raiya’s earliest memory was when she was young and living with a small tribe of Dire Wolves. They had no names, or at least no particular names that Raiya can remember. She traveled with the wolves, hunted with them and rode on their backs when she grew tired. The elf and the pack of wolves never really stayed in one place for long – they were a nomadic group, and Raiya still holds the need to wander as an old habit.

     Despite her tribe’s nomadic habits, Raiya was not secluded from humans and humanoid creatures such as herself: Her first encounters with creatures that resembled herself were very awkward and hostile, but over time she gradually warmed up to distant kin until curiosity took hold.  

     When Raiya’s tribe would settle, she sought out camps, villages, and any other towns that lay in the perimeter. She socialized and learned from the people she encountered, each place providing a different skill:

     Some villages taught her different methods of fighting, others different languages, stories, and craftsmanship of weapons, medicines, clothing and shelters.

     She didn’t care if the people were humans, elves, warlocks or otherwise; she knew no harm would come to her. Those that tried were met with vicious combat skill, or most commonly, a guarding wolf’s fatal bite.

 

     There came a time where her tribe settled on the outskirts of the Iscariot wolf pack. The ambassador wolves were rough-looking, but friendly enough. There was plenty of resources, so the dire wolves decided to linger a while longer than usual. During this time, Raiya became close friends with several wolves of Iscariot: UshaFangShadowShikyo, and Obsidian were her closest friends at that time. Even though their relationship consisted of a few rough wrestles and brief conversations, Raiya also became quite fond of Iscariot’s leader, Nightfall.

 

     Raiya stayed around Iscariot’s territory long after the old Dire wolves of her tribe passed away or moved on.

It was an extraordinarily heavy-hearted phase for the elven, but she continued to thrive in the presence of her new companions.

     She began to wander further past the vast territory to explore  from time time. In the stranger lands, Raiya encountered other kin and beasts she had never seen before: Centaurs, immortals with animal features, demons and Dragons.

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