Cursed IC

[Super Villain Nova]

Her feet carried her as fast as they could through the dark thick woods. The sky above had already turned to a solid black as the cold air struck her lungs deeply. With every breath her heart raced faster and faster. At some points she felt as if it wanted to jump right from her chest. The fear of those chasing her touched her nerves. The hair on the back of her neck stood up as slight tingles reached the tips of her fingers and the tip of her toes, so much that her arms and legs were becoming numb and a bit shaky. 


Evilin could care less about her golden locks that now trailed behind her. Tangled and mattered, with dirt and leaves gracing every inch of her. Her once fine dress now torn and ripped almost up to the hems. Her once loved shoes had been lost within the woods. 


"Ah!" 


Evilin tripped, falling to the ground hard. Her hands and knees scrapped from the hard dirt floor. She gritted her teeth tightly as she winched at the slight pain. Her eyes darted back over her shoulder as she could hear them... They were close by... Dogs barking as they were hot on her sent and men yelling as they followed the hounds. 


Swallowing hard to clear her dry throat, Evilin shoved herself back to her feet. She could not let her one friend's death be in vein. The only person who was on her side at the moment was a guard that had helped her escape her father's kingdom only days ago. But sadly, on this day.. He did more then help her escape. He gave his life to protect her. 


As she got to her feet she noticed the fresh blood now staining her dress. Her breath was wearing thin and she could not tell for how much longer she could continue on like this. She needed help.... She needed......


The world could only blacken for the princess of Roland. Evilin knew of the darkness in the world and knew more about the darkness in men's hearts. But what she had discovered only a week ago, could possibly end the world for good. The world may have been dark, but Evilin had faith in the light. She had seen the good and the bad. She would do what ever she could to help stop the evil from overcoming the world. 


The world would not end... Not like this... 


Evilin rushed through the ankle deep river that separated her and a tavern in the near distance. By this time she hurt all over, and tears were screaming down her cheeks. Her blue eyes set upon the dim light. She wanted to call out, but when she tried her voice feel short as her throat ran dry. 


"Please..." She whispered to herself as that was all she could muster through her voice. 


Her bare feet pushed even further as the tavern was now closer. She could hear other voices in the distance, but this time it was coming from the tavern before her and not from the hunting party behind her. 


As time felt like an eternity for her, it was only mere seconds. Evilin pushed open the door with all her might and feel to her knees. "Please....." 


She looked up to the well lit room before her and saw a sea of faces, most of them cloaked and distant, others with the look of worry or confusion. 


"Someone.... Help...." She tried again to call out... But her words were weak and without breath. 


She heard the dogs and voices from the hunting party ever so close. She glanced over her shoulder before getting to her feet and shoving the door shut. If the people in the tavern would not help her... What was she to do?

 

[Nogoodname]

Elise sat at the bar, drinking away her troubles.  She had been away from home for nearly a month, and hadn't made a shred of progress on her project, to be completely honest she didn't even know where to start.  It was maddening, at the very least she had expected to make some semblance of progress by now, but there was nothing useful to be found on the subject, not in the entirety of the Netherfar library at least.  Now heading to the great kingdom of Roland, she hoped for some success there, it seemed a lot more... grand, than Netherfar which was a good sign, hopefully it would hold the knowledge she sought.  


Slowly nursing away at her drink, she let out a sigh, wishing she was back at home by now with the great trees of the forest surrounding her.  The fresh, clean air of the forest was something she missed greatly, as well as her friends in the village.  There was no doubt they were enjoying themselves right now, while Elise was alone and miserably homesick.  


Well, not entirely alone, she had met someone in her travels, a rather strong looking man named Argen had agreed to accompany her in her travels in exchange for some coin.  She greatly appreciated the company, and he gave her a strong sense of security, it was something she had come to rely on during her short month out in the real world.  


Elise was suddenly jolted from her thoughts as the door to the tavern swung open loudly, and in the doorway stood a blond haired girl, covered in the mud made by the nights rainfall.  Her eyes went wide as she heard the girls cries for help, reflexively reaching to where her bow normally hung around her back, but, curses she had left it in her room! The whole situation scared her immensely, she was unarmed, and this girl felt like trouble.  Afraid of the unknown, and unsure of what to do, she subtly scanned the room for any way to escape, just in case.  


She wanted to help, the girl seemed genuinely scared, it definitely didn't seem like any sort of trick, and something deep down told her she should but still she was hesitant to offer her assistance.  After all, what would happen if she inadvertently helped a known criminal? Or what if she had led some dangerous beast to the tavern? There were too many unknowns and she didn't like it at all.  


With a gulp, Elise decided to go against her better judgement, this was exactly what she wanted after all, an adventure.  If she was to believe what her parents told her about the outside world, she wouldn't be here in the first place.  She needed to be brave, and this was the perfect opportunity to. "what's wrong" she asked to the girl in her naturally quiet tone.  

 

[tane5naoki]

Yang Lu sipped at his drink, a heated wine mixed with cinnamon and mint, grateful for the warmth it lent him. He had just arrived at the inn he had not expected to find. He had resigned himself to another night in a tent eating cold rations for another night with little more than warmed water to go to sleep on when he stumbled upon the establishment he found himself in. He had purchased a room for the night and stored his belongings in the room, locking it up tight.


His horse was stabled, his belly full and he even had the beginnings of a buzzing in his head. It was going to be a good night. He had been on the road for days, enjoying the scenery and meeting new people, grateful to be away from his command for a few days. He had been given a message to deliver to the ambassador to Roland, directly from the Emperor's desk. It was critical for him to remain discreet, so he had traveled with his armor tucked away in his saddle, though plainly wore his sword, ensuring that no one would try and rob him.


This night, as he supped with the other patrons of the establishment, he wore a simple pair of breeches, black leather boots, and a simple red Changshan embroidered with a simple design over his breast of his family's crest in gold thread. He kept the scroll he was delivering in the sleeve of his shirt, tucked into a hidden pocket.


A sudden crashing noise brought him out of his revere, and his hand went to his waist, where his dagger was strapped. The young lady's pleas came in gasps as she tried to catch her breath. She had been running for quite some time, through some unsavory terrain by the looks of her. She was a woman being chased, he knew, he had seen the look before. He calmly stood up and turned around, and took the stairs to his room. He wasn't going to be able to help anyone if he wasn't at least properly armed. He unlocked his door and slipped in side, moving silently as he unrolled his pack, revealing his armor. He didn't have time to don it all, but he slipped on his bracers and placed his helmet under his arm. He picked up his sword and gingerly carried it back with him, arriving as people began to ask questions to the young lady.


He remained silent. He wasn't going to jump into this if it turned out to be a misunderstanding, or if she was a criminal. If she truly needed help he would assist, but he wouldn't offer his services. His empire needed him first and foremost.

 

[shadowz1995]

Elise sat at the bar, drinking away her troubles.  She had been away from home for nearly a month, and hadn't made a shred of progress on her project, to be completely honest she didn't even know where to start.  It was maddening, at the very least she had expected to make some semblance of progress by now, but there was nothing useful to be found on the subject, not in the entirety of the Netherfar library at least.  Now heading to the great kingdom of Roland, she hoped for some success there, it seemed a lot more... grand, than Netherfar which was a good sign, hopefully it would hold the knowledge she sought.  


Slowly nursing away at her drink, she let out a sigh, wishing she was back at home by now with the great trees of the forest surrounding her.  The fresh, clean air of the forest was something she missed greatly, as well as her friends in the village.  There was no doubt they were enjoying themselves right now, while Elise was alone and miserably homesick.  


Well, not entirely alone, she had met someone in her travels, a rather strong looking man named Argen had agreed to accompany her in her travels in exchange for some coin.  She greatly appreciated the company, and he gave her a strong sense of security, it was something she had come to rely on during her short month out in the real world.  


Elise was suddenly jolted from her thoughts as the door to the tavern swung open loudly, and in the doorway stood a blond haired girl, covered in the mud made by the nights rainfall.  Her eyes went wide as she heard the girls cries for help, reflexively reaching to where her bow normally hung around her back, but, curses she had left it in her room! The whole situation scared her immensely, she was unarmed, and this girl felt like trouble.  Afraid of the unknown, and unsure of what to do, she subtly scanned the room for any way to escape, just in case.  


She wanted to help, the girl seemed genuinely scared, it definitely didn't seem like any sort of trick, and something deep down told her she should but still she was hesitant to offer her assistance.  After all, what would happen if she inadvertently helped a known criminal? Or what if she had led some dangerous beast to the tavern? There were too many unknowns and she didn't like it at all.  


With a gulp, Elise decided to go against her better judgement, this was exactly what she wanted after all, an adventure.  If she was to believe what her parents told her about the outside world, she wouldn't be here in the first place.  She needed to be brave, and this was the perfect opportunity to. "what's wrong" she asked to the girl in her naturally quiet tone.  

Yang Lu sipped at his drink, a heated wine mixed with cinnamon and mint, grateful for the warmth it lent him. He had just arrived at the inn he had not expected to find. He had resigned himself to another night in a tent eating cold rations for another night with little more than warmed water to go to sleep on when he stumbled upon the establishment he found himself in. He had purchased a room for the night and stored his belongings in the room, locking it up tight.


His horse was stabled, his belly full and he even had the beginnings of a buzzing in his head. It was going to be a good night. He had been on the road for days, enjoying the scenery and meeting new people, grateful to be away from his command for a few days. He had been given a message to deliver to the ambassador to Roland, directly from the Emperor's desk. It was critical for him to remain discreet, so he had traveled with his armor tucked away in his saddle, though plainly wore his sword, ensuring that no one would try and rob him.


This night, as he supped with the other patrons of the establishment, he wore a simple pair of breeches, black leather boots, and a simple red Changshan embroidered with a simple design over his breast of his family's crest in gold thread. He kept the scroll he was delivering in the sleeve of his shirt, tucked into a hidden pocket.


A sudden crashing noise brought him out of his revere, and his hand went to his waist, where his dagger was strapped. The young lady's pleas came in gasps as she tried to catch her breath. She had been running for quite some time, through some unsavory terrain by the looks of her. She was a woman being chased, he knew, he had seen the look before. He calmly stood up and turned around, and took the stairs to his room. He wasn't going to be able to help anyone if he wasn't at least properly armed. He unlocked his door and slipped in side, moving silently as he unrolled his pack, revealing his armor. He didn't have time to don it all, but he slipped on his bracers and placed his helmet under his arm. He picked up his sword and gingerly carried it back with him, arriving as people began to ask questions to the young lady.


He remained silent. He wasn't going to jump into this if it turned out to be a misunderstanding, or if she was a criminal. If she truly needed help he would assist, but he wouldn't offer his services. His empire needed him first and foremost.

A long breath left the lycan's lungs, as he downed the remainder of his ale. Being what he was, it was extremely difficult for Argen to become drunk as his body burned the alcohol too quickly. It was a shame really. There were many times where Argen wished he could at least feel some kind of buzz. To free himself of inhibitions for just a few hours. Everyone always looked so damned happy and open after they had a few. Seemed like a nice thing to do once in a while. 


Why were these thoughts circling his mind? The lycan had found himself in the employ of a young runaway elf called Elise. She was some kind of potion maker and wasn't the best of fighters. "Very timid..." he thought to himself after having known her for a few days. Argen offered his sword in protection and companionship. It had appeared that Elise wanted a companion more than bodyguard and the thought did make the warrior's heart feel a twinge of guilt but hey, he needed to make a living somehow and who would hire a Lycan for honest work? Argen, highly doubted that Elise even knew what he was. No one could really tell at first glance. His appearance was more like that of a barbarian than a nomadic lycan warrior. Though he doubted people could tell the difference between them. 


His time with the small elf had brought him to the tavern which they now sat at. He drank his ale with melancholy and kept an eye out for any people may want to cause trouble. "Speaking of...."  A scent crossed his nose and it immediately brought his senses to an edge. The scent of fresh earth, sweat, a woman...young. Raw fear and desperation. Argen stood and turned to the tavern door before the girl burst in and began pleading for help. Under normal circumstances, Argen would help but he was under contract right now. That means he won't act without his contractor's say so. 


The lycan looked over to Elise and sure enough, the doe like elf seemed confused and almost panicked. He could see the options flashing through her mind until she, reluctantly, decided to approach the terrified girl and ask her if all was fine. Argen matched stride with her and came to a stop just between the two but with enough space so they could see eye to eye and speak naturally. 


The scarlet clad wolf paused and took a long inhale through his nose before exhaling very slowly. Hunting dogs and several men were nearby though he couldn't tell exactly where in his current form. "Elise, she's being hunted. I don't know what you want to do but make your choice quickly." He said in a hushed tone, so that only the two ladies could hear him.

 

[Super Villain Nova]

Evilin was more shocked as to those now coming to her aid. "You must protect me from them." She grasped a hold of the elf girl's arm tightly. "They will not stop." she told her. Evilin locked eyes with Elise. "I they catch me.... The world will come to an end." Evilin whispered just loud enough for only Elise to hear, unaware that her traveling companion Argen could hear her words. Nor could she tell that the group four in the far back of the tavern were watching them closely. Well all but one... 


Coda, Seng, Nora and Okami had been sitting in the far back of the tavern, at a table close to the main fireplace. Their clothes and cloaks looked foreign, even far beyond the star points (north, south, east, and west). Before Evilin had graced the tavern with her presence the four were indeed quiet. But had a strange aura around them. They spoke the language well, so they couldn't be outsiders, but when they got their food they did have questionable looks written in their eyes. Their meal had been long over due at this point. Merely a few bits of fruit here or there that they would pick at.


But what seemed very odd, minus the rest of them, was the game they were playing. A card game of chance and seemed like a lot of guessing. 


The smallest male out of the group turned to one with long hair, "Seng?....." Coda held up a hand lightly to the other as his true blue eyes looked over the cards in his hand. "Do, you have... Any three's?" Coda finally asked. All he got was a sly smirk from Seng. Seng leaned over towards Coda with his sly smirk, "Go fi..." Seng was cut off when Evilin busted through the door of the tavern. 


The group turned to look at the door, spotting Evilin and soon seeing as only a few others had gone to her aid. "Should we move?" Nora asked quietly as she narrowed her eyes over the girl. "She looks dirty and beat up... But." Nora let her words drift off into her thoughts. 


"You know what, I want to change my number." Coda stated as he was still distracted by their card game. His eyes darted back and forth from his hand to Seng's hand that he could now see freely.


"Well we stand out, but not too much." Okami stated as he too had his eyes locked upon Evilin and the now forming group. "I don't think we have to worry about anything if we just keep to ourselves." Okami studied the Elf and her traveling companion. But what else seemed to have caught his eyes was another man sitting at the bar still. 


"I'm going to pick five." Coda stated as he smiled to his hand. He reached over and took a card from Seng's hand and placed it in his own. "Seeing as I got a pair, I get to go again." Coda smiled as he looked around the table at his friends. Their eyes and attention still focused on the scene before them. Coda shrugged before leaning over to Okami and looking at the man's cards. Coda mumbled a few numbers to himself as he looked from his cards, to Okami's cards. 


"Yeah well... Who knows if we will have a choice in laying low or not." Nora frowned a bit. She nodded her head at Evilin, "Her necklace." Nora tilted her head, "Not really the kind of thing you would see a commoner wear day in and day out, not to mention let the world know they had." Nora let out a huff of air. 


Evilin gripped hard onto Elise, "Do not let them take me." She told her once more. 


Outside of the tavern a hoard of men on horse back came to a stop. More than seven dogs gathered around the twenty men. They were all dressed in the king's armor. Roland was the makings on their chest and red cloaks. They also didn't seem like normal soldiers, their armor and weapons decorated for ranks of honor. One in particular stepped off his horse and let his heavy feet touch the cold wet ground. He started to bark orders to all of his men. "Surround the tavern, I want every inch searched!" The man barked. 


This was Roland's right hand guard, a man of honor and steel. General Karn stood tall and fixed his gloves on his hands. His eyes trailed over the tavern now only ten to fifteen feet away from him. He could see the muddy imprints of the princess' feet. Bit's of fresh blood here and there, but the hounds seemed to be all over her scent and the front door to the tavern. He knew that if they walked in to the small building with twenty armed guards, better yet, the king's guards, no man would stand between him and bringing Evilin back to her father. He narrowed his eyes once more. 


She would be going back to Roland, one way or another. 

 

[St. Boethius]

Benton wandered down the well worn path from his cabin deep within the woods to the near by town. There was only one reason the usually reclusive Benton would go into town: His body, all but falling apart because of his use of black magic, was in need of repairs. The doctor had been putting it off for as long as he could but he couldn't abstain any longer unless he wanted his body to die. Covering his abdominal body in a large cloak Benton limped his way to an out of the way tavern. He had gotten a few parts from the local drunkards every so often, but he made sure he spread out where he got his parts so it didn't raise too much suspicion. He didn't need guards interrupting his research. As he approached the tavern he heard the clanking of armor and his himself away to watch. Roland dogs seemed to have found something. 


He would wait and watch from a distance. He needed to replace a leg anyway, perhaps this would give him the opportunity to get his a corpse to scavenge from.

 

[ShadTheWerepire]

Dominic was at the back of the tavern coolly leaning on the wall, his body language suggesting he was flirting with the woman next to him.  She, a young, perky red head, was not just another visiting patron.  She was the town’s “Secret Keeper” as Dominic so eloquently named her.  To him, she was not some whore off the street but the most plentiful source of information in the area and; she was available for the night if he had the coin to spare. 


The trail had not been kind lately, so if he was spending a night in town he was planning on making the most of it.  His plans for the night therefore, were this woman, a strong drink, and a very busy bed.  He would get business out of the way first of course, learn of jobs in the area, any hunts worth joining, or causes worth fighting for.  But then, he would enjoy himself… and her. 


Just as he was getting a room number, the bartender gestured over Dominic’s shoulder in the woman’s direction and she hurriedly excused herself.  He was about to protest but he was more interested in the sounds outside as he heard the hunting dogs and a decently sized group of horse hooves clatter to a stop.  And was that the clank of armor?  This was beginning to sound like something he wasn’t planning on getting involved in.  He straightened the two-handed sword on his back and made his way toward the back door of the establishment. 

 

[tane5naoki]

Yang hear the snorting of horses and shouts outside, and he gripped the sheath of his sword tighter. His "brother" began whispering to him, a constant buzz in the back of his mind that permeated his thoughts whenever combat was inevitable. He stepped forward, deciding to try and resolve the issue before the soldiers acted. If he was searched and the hidden scroll found there's no telling if they would give it back or not, and he hoped to avoid an incident in a different country.


"What is the meaning of this?" He said, using his most commanding tone, the voice he used to order rambunctious soldiers into line. "I am Captain Yang Lu, emissary of Emperor Masa. Why are you being chased, my lady." He wasn't sure who she was, but even dirty and torn it was obvious the dress was finely made when she first donned it.


His gaze shifted from left to right, checking the windows and seeing what looked to be soldiers running around the building, securing the area around it. They were coming in.


"Do not think to lie to me," He added, "I will know." His gaze fell on her, waiting for an answer.


@NovaNovass

 

[Super Villain Nova]

Yang's voice boomed through the tavern making a lot of people stop what they were doing and to turn and look at the man. Seng, Nora and Okami were some of them. Coda even looked up for a second only to look back down at the card game before him. His hand in mid air reaching out to take one of Okami's cards. His eyes shifted back up as the scene within the tavern was now becoming more interesting then their card game. 


Okami noticed Coda's actions out of the corner of his eyes. It was one thing when him and the others would become interested in the people around them, it was a whole other story if Coda got involved. "I think we should leave and stay out in the woods tonight." Okami stated in a slight whisper to the others. Both Seng and Nora nodded silently as they too noticed Coda's attraction towards the revealing event. 


"Bbbuuttt we already paid for a room." Coda said slowly and rose a brow to Okami. 


"We can just get our money back then." Okami stated back slowly. 


Coda huffed a little at the tone in Okami's voice. It was more like the older friend was mocking him. "Or.... We can just help settle the matter and not have to sleep on the cold wet ground..... in the rain... with monsters... An bugs.... And bugs that bite." Coda narrowed his eyes giving Okami a mocking look. 


Seng rolled his eyes as he could tell where this was going. "Lets just see if we actually need to do anything. Who ever is outside is probably after the girl and not some strange travelers." He told the group. 


Nora had been listening to their pointless conversation, but kept her eyes on Evilin and the now gathering group. She even noticed a strange character trying to leave the tavern out the back. She twisted her lips into a slight un-amused frown. there would be nothing good coming from the man trying to leave. 


Evilin looked to those around her, even Yang who seemed to be forceful with his words a bit. She had been through a lot within this past week and demanding answers she could not give just made things worst. But she need not be dragged back to her farther. She pushed herself off the ground and stepped further into the tavern, staying close to Elise and her traveling companion. "My name is..." 


Just as she was about to give an answer the door behind her busted open and seven king's guards rushed into the tavern. They lined the walls and blocked the door so no one could leave. 


And just as they had stepped in through the front door, five more came in through the back door shoving Dominic back away from the door. 


"Nobody!" A man started to yell. His eyes trailed the tavern and looked over everyone's faces. "Move." His second word was lower in volume as the whole tavern went quiet. 


Most of the men kept their eyes on other people, while just a few kept their sights locked upon Evilin and the three people now standing dangerously close next to her. 


Karn slowly stepped into the tavern. His boots meeting the wooden floor gave off a deep hollow sound under his feet. His hands gently placed behind his back as his eyes wandered over the crowd. He had spotted Evilin no doubt, but he was now looking for people who might be considered as a resistance to his orders.


"Sorry for the intrusion." He stated loudly and clearly. His eyes lingered on Yang, Elise and Argen. He picked out Dominic towards the back... A slick person not trying to get involved with the law always had something to hide... And then a group by the main fireplace. They didn't seem like much, or not really any trouble, but they stood out. 


Karn turned back to Evilin, Yang, Argen and Elise. "I'm only here for the girl... And if you hand her over to me... Me and my men will leave in peace. No need to fight and no need to get into anyone's business." Karn pulled his hands out from behind his back. He slowly started to take off his gloves, one finger at a time. His eyes casually upon his hands. Once the gloves were off he looked back up to Evilin and those around her. "So how about we do this the calm and easy way?" he asked mostly to Argen, Elise and Yang.  

 

[Nogoodname]

Elise simply watched as the commotion went on around her, everything was too much to take in at once.  This strange girl being pursued by something, the new man shouting at the girl like she was a child who had done something wrong, she was at a loss for words, stepping back slowly and taking deep breaths in order to think of a plan.  What she wanted to do was get back to her room, get her bow and bag of supplies, she had tons of things that would help them fight off any intruders.  But just as she turned to go to her room at the inn the door to the inn burst open and what looked to be guardsmen came in, brandishing weapons and threatening to attack anyone who tried to leave.  


Listening to the man's speech only made her more confused, why in the world did this man want the girl? Was it true that if she was taken the world would end? Then surely these must be evil people she concluded.  But there were so many of them! Elise was helpless without her gear, she needed some form of a distraction, something to hold the situation while she could get her things, then this man would know the true power of a seasoned alchemist! 


She gave her companion a look, trying to gauge how he thought about the situation while also hopefully trying to inform him of her predicament through her expressions alone.  Then turned to the man who was dominating the situation currently, hoping to take his attention while her companion hopefully did something, also trying to get a little more information about the girl "Why is she wanted? Surely we have a right to know that?" she asked the man curiously.  

 

[shadowz1995]

Words were thrown back and forth between the patrons at the bar at the scene only seemed to buzz louder with anxiety and excitement. Chaos was brewing just under the surface and it wasn't looking good for anyone inside the tavern. A foreign (though he's one to talk) man approached and spoke with a voice of authority. Argen never responded well to authority and so the tone grated against his nerves but he withheld the alpha male within from commenting on the foreigner's tone of voice.


The scene only became more chaotic as several royal guards busted through the door and began securing the area. Moments after, the leader (presumably) stepped the entrance and began declaring that they only wanted the girl and nothing more. A quick glance at his contractor informed Argen that she was very conflicted about the situation. They locked eyes for a moment and he could see the decision she came to. They were enemies.


Upon that judgement, the lycan's thirst for battle began show its bloody self. Argen draws his two handed blade from its sheath and plants it into the ground between the runaway princess and the guard, coming just in front of the captain of the guard. A low bestial growl was rumbling in the wolf warrior's chest combined with a hunger in his golden eyes that was clearly....inhuman. If no one knew what he was, they certainly had an idea now. Especially his employer, Elise. 


The challenge excited him. He was perfectly willing to give the interior of the tavern a nice crimson paint job. "Looks like your going to turn the other way and walk out, shiny one." Shiny one is what Argen referred to royal guards. Always so fond of their shiny metal. Argen didn't ever need such protection...then again.....they weren't lycans. "Maybe I want to fight. Maybe I don't want peace. Maybe I want to see exactly how much of a challenge you and your little band of pathetic cur will put up. How much of a fight will hey put up as I'm tearing their throats out? How much of a fight will YOU put up? I want to find out so by all means knight. Make my day." The words mixed with the growling made his voice sound inhuman and guttural but it only made the message clearer. Argen wanted this fight and he was provoking them to start it. Regardless of how intimidating it was.

 

[St. Boethius]

Benton very carefully made his way out of the woods as the guards f Roland forced their way into the tavern. His one bad leg dragged a little behind him and his left eye was a milky white, a sign of blindness. The leg was his own fault, he didn't clean out an infection properly and ended up having to carve out most of the muscle in the leg to ensure his own life. His made walking a challenge and put Benton in constant pain. The eye was wear and tear of testing black magic. Besides the spell that allows him to assimilate flesh and bone Benton had been working on more combat oriented spells. Though it may not be the best to use right now as he needed to replace his own flesh, but he could summon a swarm of locusts to devour the flesh of his enemies. 


Benton peeked into a tavern window to see what was no doubt going to be a slaughter. Humans killing humans was always a sight to see. How the strong Lord their skills and weapons over the weak never trying to fight those of equal talent unless their life is guaranteed. Thought there were some interesting people in the mix this time and..... wait a minute. Is that who Benton thought it was? Benton looked closer at Evilin on the floor trying to determine if that was the baby he had helped bring into the world.


Benton watched the scene with renewed interest. He had never seen Evilin accept for when she was freshly born but it did raise some interesting questions to say the least. Who would be so important that the king would sent his guards to retrieve her this far from the capital? Why so many guards even? This little noble must have done something quite interesting to garner this much attention.

 

[ShadTheWerepire]

Dominic was nearly bowled over as the five guards entered the back door he was trying to leave out of.  He immediately retaliated, his hand tightened into a fist by his side and he was ready to throw a punch when the booming voice halted all chatter.  Seeing he wasn’t going anywhere now, he took a few steps back adjusting his position so the five guards could enter and line the back wall. 


He was tempted to chime in when the first responder to the injured woman asked for details of the arrest.  It was cute she cared, but these men were taking this woman whether she liked it or not, a group of guards this big would ensure that.  Unfortunately, her body guard did not appear to be as diplomatic. 


Dominic couldn’t make out the words coming out of the warrior’s mouth because they were riddled with bestial growls.  Either way the warrior appeared to be standing up for the girl and threatening the head guard.  Maybe if he just kept his cool, the guards would leave the door unattended when a fight breaks out and he can just slip away.  He didn’t want to deal with the guards and he sure as hell didn’t want to deal with whatever was growling. 


He remained standing in place, watching the events unfold, biding his time.  He began adjusting the wraps on his hands.  They were stained with specks of oil and sweat from sharpening his blade that morning.  If a fight did break out, at least he was ready.  

 

[tane5naoki]

Yang looked up at Argen, shocked at the development of the situation. He twisted his head, counting the guards quickly, the buzzing in the back of his head intensifying as the idea of a battle became more and more of a possibility. "Now there, I don't think that this show of force is necessary, sir." How quickly the large man jumped from quite to blood thirsty was very concerning. He stayed where he was, unable to see Argen's eyes.


"Now," He said, addressing the man who was obviously in charge of the guards who had come in, "Everyone here is at peace, but you can understand our confusion and worry. We were sitting here, eating and drinking, minding our own business and a young lady bursts in, with a fear in her eyes so real it was palpable, looking like someone who's been running for her life for days. Then a bunch of soldiers burst in and demand her? It would seem suspicious even in my home country."
 


He didn't reveal who he was to the guard, nor his position. if he had to fight, he would prefer that no word of a Captain of the Oxion Army engaged another officer in combat. It could lead to some very dire situations.

 

[Super Villain Nova]

Karn let his lips turn into a sly smirk without even knowing it. Those standing up for Evilin only let the word, "Cute." escape his lips. 


"It's all so charming that you wish to stand up for the princess of Roland when you serve another." Karn's eyes settled upon Yang for a mere second before turning his gaze to Elise. "As for her crimes, she is nothing more than a traitor to her own kingdom. She will not be harmed, but she will be brought back to the King and from there will be set on trial." Karn finally looked to Argen. "Denying her capture only makes one an accessory." He titled his head a bit as he got a better look at the man. He could now tell that Argen, more than likely had Lycan blood in him. A messy sort of animals he thought to himself. 


"So, if you would please step aside, " Karn was suddenly cut off.


"Technically you're in the wrong." Coda leaned back in his chair a bit as his voice traveled through the room.


 Seng, Nora and Okami all looked to Coda with warning eyes. 


"Pardon?" Karn asked as he gritted his teeth a bit. 


Coda smirked a little as he pointed to Karn, "You are Roland's high guards, correct?" Coda placed a finger to his lips for a second before turning to a bag on the floor. "If I'm not mistaken... We are in Bellmore." Coda pulled out a map and placed it upon the table over their cards and food. "In the land of Roland you have the right to seize people who have broken Roland law or world law." Coda looked over the map and pointed to the location of the tavern. "But in another man's land... Your laws and authority don't apply." Coda shrugged with a playful smile. 


Seng placed his hand over his own face and let out a heavy breath. "I should have never gotten you that book of law and study." He whispered to Coda.


Coda smiled to Seng, "And you should have never have eaten my desert three months ago... But we can't change the past now can we?" Coda whispered back with a hint of revenge in his voice. 


"Told you." Okami stated to Seng. 


"It was an accident." Seng harshly responded back to Okami.


Nora smacked her forehead, "I can't believe I'm stuck with idiots." she muttered. 


Karn looked over the group and was becoming annoyed with their whispers and antics. "Are you saying I have no right to capture this traitor and return her to her King for trial?" Karn took a few steps further into the tavern. 


Coda held up a finger, "Exactly." he stated before standing up. "You have the right to take her, but you lack the authority supervision of any Bellmore guards. Seeing as you said she was royalty that also means you would need an approval from the King of Bellmore and an escort from one of 'his' high guards."


"And who are you to say this?" Karn looked aggravated at this point.


"Just a traveler who knows his rights." Coda smiled and placed his hands behind his back.


"And who's vocal about them." Nora added. 

 

[Nogoodname]

Elise's companion was beginning to unsettle her, the speed at which he had resorted to threats and violence was... wrong.  She knew now that this man was far from human, almost wolf like in nature.  It made her wonder exactly where he had come from.  There were stories told in the village of men who could turn into wolves and hunted on those who wandered out too far at night, but she had always assumed it was a silly tale parents told children so they don't stay out too late.  The idea that such creatures may actually be real, and that her companion was one of them came across as nothing short of terrifying.  


After Arge's challenge, the other man who's name she had yet to learn also confronted Karn, seemingly trying to reason with him unsuccessfully.  That was when the small voice from the back of the room spoke up, one of the children who had been minding their own business in the back had begun to speak up against Karn. 


She didn't necessarily understand what the boy in the back of the room was saying, in fact, most of the politics of this strange world confused the elf who was more accustomed to her small village in the forest, where the rules of the land were simple and people respected each other.  But she understood one thing, this boy was helping them, and she was willing to accept any form of help that was offered.  The girl before them looked terrified, and Elise wanted to do whatever she could to make sure that this man couldn't hurt her, it was clear just by the manner in which he spoke something was very wrong here.  Why was this man here in place of the king? Why would the kings only daughter run away? And even more importantly why would she be put on trial simply for running from her father.  Even if she had done something wrong, Elise didn't think there was anything the girl could do that would make her a traitor to the throne, she seemed so... harmless.  With a grin she looked to Karn after Coda finished speaking "Exactly!" she exclaimed, pretending to have understood the exchange that had just happened.  

 

[St. Boethius]

Benton's eyes widened when he heard the high knight address the girl in the floor as The princess of Roland. Cursing under his breath Benton looked around for something to throw the situation into chaos so he could retrieve her.


He had brought her into this world at the cost of his position the life of her mother. Even if her father didn't agree Benton was practically her godfather and so he decided to create a bit of a distraction....


Benton cut into his already damaged leg and as his black blood, tainted by dark magic, ran from the wound Benton used it to draw a sigil on the window pane. Pressing his hand against the seal it glowed with dark energy and Benton knelt on the ground coughing violently. " The magic circle needs some work. The cost of the spell is entirely too high." Benton muttered to himself as his body felt the effects of using dark magic. His kidneys had just shut down as payment for the spell, but boy was it a good one. 


The dark circle glowed for a moment as if reading the spell entailed in the magic circle before activating. A Pulse of dark energy shot out from the magic circle, breaking the window and blanketing the room in darkness before settling within the shadows. The shadows began to take shape and restrained everyone but Evelin.


Benton groaned as he felt himself lose the wonderful function of his kidneys. You know you never realise how good something is before it's gone? Well Benton became very away of what it's like without kidneys and was paralyzed with the sudden onset of immense pain. 

 

[shadowz1995]

"You're greatly mistaken if you think I care about the laws of men. You want the girl? Come and get her." Argen stepped forward and was mere inches from captain's face. The tavern was lighting up with talks of diplomacy and peace. Laws and rules that Argen truly didn't care for. He never lived his life with rules. The strong lived and the weak were devoured. That's the way of life he has known. The weak could live if they befriended the strong or became strong themselves. How strong were these Knights before him? The wolfman was itching to find out. The sound of elevated heart rates was thundering in his ears as everyone's tensions rose. Something was definitely coming and those with combat experience could feel it. 


It wasn't until moments later that the smell of rotted blood finally registered in Argen's senses. His head snapped right and there he saw a glowing seal. His golden eyes widened and he uttered one word, "Magic!" The room was then engulfed in darkness and Argen was not about to lose the opportunity. He snaps his head forward, aiming directly for the captain's nose in a powerful headbutt. Regardless if it struck or not, he would attempt to turn and grab the two ladies behind him but the dark magic also served as some kind of binding spell. A low Bestial yell ripped out of Argen's throat as he struggled against the spell. He had always hated how powerful magic was! The whole situation plus the anger at being restrained began to bubble over and his body began to reflect that. Muscle and skin began to writhe as the signs of an involuntary shift showed itself. The lycan's eyes practically glowed in very little light within the tavern. As luminescent as the moon. "WHAT.....IS THIS?!" He bellowed out. 


Argen lucked out that it was a spell to close the room in darkness. Would it have a been a spell that flashes with a blinding light, his superior senses would have been overloaded several times over and he would have been blind for quite some time.

 

[Super Villain Nova]

Karn sneered through his teeth at Argen's words. His head snapped towards the wolf and he narrowed his eyes. "Those that protect a traitor, are nothing more than a traitor themselves." Karn spoke loudly as he went to draw his sword..... But then the darkness set in. 


As the darkness lay cover over the tavern, Karn's face was meet with a hard blow. Letting out a cry through his teeth, he took a step back placing a hand over his now bleeding nose. His eyes meet those of Argen's glowing ones. Karn gripped the hilt of his sword and moved his hand to draw the blade. But his hand stopped. He looked to his hand and could see nothing, but the restraint was still there. Karn could barely make out a figure of a hand holding his arm, he looked up to the room and the shadows started to form around the room. All taking hold of others. He heard Argen's whisper.... Magic indeed. But this was not just any magic, it was black magic. 


But what confused Karn the most about this spell was the level. If any normal black magic user used this spell, they would die over something like this. Even with what Evilin had taken, she could not have done something like this. He looked to the princess. Evilin was standing next to Elise, but seemed not to be struggling. Reason being was that because the shadows were not holding her back. Karn narrowed his eyes once more. 


Evilin blinked, between everything that has happened to everything that was happening, she was very much lost. She knew she had to get away from her father's royal guards, and she needed to bring something to another, in hopes of saving this world. But the darkness now surrounding her and those withing the tavern made her heart sink a bit. This would be very much similar to the darkness that would consume to world. Her heart knew it, but she felt like something was different about this darkness. It wasn't like her vision, similar, but...... She couldn't put her finger on it yet. 


Evilin turned to Elise, she didn't know the girl very long, nor did she know Argen either. But the two seemed to be on her side. She glanced over to Yang not sure where the other stood. But if she could she would try to help them get out from the shadow's grip and far from this place. 


Coda had paused in his motions and thoughts just before the darkness took over the room. A sharp pinch struck his mind causing a slight winch in his expression. A sharp cold breath escaped his lips and the next thing he knew, the room was devoured in darkness. His eyes scanned the tavern and noticed that everyone inside the building was now being restrained by shadowed men. Coda gritted his teeth at this sight and felt a cold hand trying to touch him. The shadow's near him were trying to take hold of him like the others, but their hand could not hold the young man. 


His eyes and his friends eyes all had a light glow to them. A light blue, faded a bit, only well seen if one was close enough to them. But Coda's eyes could be seen clear as day in this black. 


"Seriously Coda?" Okami asked as he struggled with a shadow. 


Coda looked to Okami and narrowed his eyes. "It's not me." He whispered. 


He saw Okami's eyes open wide with confusion from his friend. 


"This is sloppy... Inexperienced..." Coda looked around the room as if trying to find the black magic user. Whom ever this black magic user was, did not fully understand black magic, otherwise he would have never used it in the first place. Coda stepped around the table and ran a hand through the shadow holding Okami as he did so. His hand cut through the shadow like he was cutting through a cloud. The shadow figure disappeared back into darkness leaving Okami free of it's hold. 


Okami let out a few heavy breaths before catching it. He narrowed his eyes and turned to his sword that hung on the back of his chair. He drew the black steal bastard sword and scanned the area. His eyes feel to Coda who was slowly making his way around the tavern. 


Okami's sword would be nothing others had ever seen before. Well the design wasn't all unique, but the fact that it was black and was made from a strange steal. The steal reflected upon the darkness in the room, giving off a faint glow... Kind of like as if he was outside and the moon light was reflecting off his sword. A slight hum from the metal graced the room like music. 


"Coda....." Nora growled. She was struggling with one of the shadows, and didn't seem like she was having a grand old time with it. Coda merely held up a finger to her, as if telling her to be quiet or to wait a minute. This only angered Nora even more. 


Coda on the other hand, his eyes and mind were locked on the black magic. He stopped near Argen and Karn when he finally picked up what he was looking for. The source of the user. A sly smirk crossed his lips as he looked over the window from across the room. "Let's see what.." Coda stumbled a bit as Evilin grabbed his arm. He looked over to the princess with wide and shocked eyes. He was so focused on the black magic that he had forgotten all about her. 


Evilin gulped as she locked eyes with him. Something about his was off, but she needed help... Not to mention she needed those in this tavern to help her. "Help us escape please." She gripped his arm tighter. Coda only blinked in response. 

 

[St. Boethius]

After a few moments Benton was able to move again. It wasn't as if the pain had dulled, but he needed to replace the kidneys hey had lost thanks to the spell and quickly. Any normal user would have died by now, but thanks to Bentons.... unique approach to the magic he had the opportunity to use powerful life ending spells more than once. Benton crawled through the broken window, his features covered thanks to a long black cloak. Brandishing a knife Benton grabbed the nearest soldier and slit his throat. As his life was drained from him the shadows let go of the soldier. Working fast as he knew Evelin was still there Benton cut into the abdomen not caring about how deep his cut was. Cutting straight down Benton cut through muscle and intestine alike. scooping out the stringy mess that was the intestines Benton could see his goal: the kidnesy. Benton quickly cut out the kidneys, and gouged out the soldiers eye. Underneath his Clark Benton produced a large jar from his satchel filled with preserving chemicals and put the organs inside.


"I'll have to wait on the leg." He muttered as he packed up. He knew the spell wasn't going to last forever and he needed to get out of here. He hadn't accounted for the Lycan and that beast could rip through the magic of he struggled enough. 


Benton didn't even notice that Coda wasn't affected or that he had freed others.

 

[tane5naoki]

Yang was shocked at the sudden darkness of the room and felt panic boil up inside of him as he realized he was paralizied. His instincts kicked in and he centralized his energies, focusing on his magic, unlocking the force he kept deep inside his consciousness. He opened his eyes and let loose a burst of energy. He felt warmth as it escaped from his skin, the energy pushing at the bonds that held him, eating away at the fire of his lifeforce. 


He felt the spell weaken, he could move his head now, though his limbs were still trapped. He could hear strange sounds to the side and he looked, horrified to see some black cloaked figure tearing into one of the guards that had been immobolized. He released another burst of magic, tearing through his bonds he drew his sword and went to shout to the figure not to move, but felt a sudden lightness to his limbs and fell to the ground on one knee.


The wine he had been drinking suddenly went to his head, as he had lost a sudden and large amount of energy casting the magic that released him. He could feel his strength returning, but he worried the figure would get away before he could get up.

 

[shadowz1995]

"This....cursed....sorcery!" The Crimson clad warrior choked out between snaps and growls of frustration and anger. He had come to hate magic in general but this format of magic he hadn't seen before yet and it made him feel weak and feeling weak made him feel angry. 


He needed to get out. Against armed guards, he was sure of his victory but against an unknown magic and mage, things were not looking favorable and despite his reckless abandon he knew when the odds were stacked against him to the point of defeat or death. When you can't fight.....flee. Run away and live to fight another day. He didn't like it but her sure as hell wasn't going to die here nor let his contractor suffer either. 


The rumbling in his chest quieted for a moment.....the sound of others trying to break their bonds more audible now. Then the ambience was replaces with the snapping of bone, tearing of muscle and flesh, and menacing presence filled the air. After a few seconds passed....there was nothing. A few more seconds and there was a primal roar that ripped out of Argen's half beast form with a force that could scare off a grizzly. His former was now like that of beasts of legend. Bipedal wolf humanoid with fur replacing skin, muscle becoming larger and more course, growing about a foot and half in height. His face became that of the lycans of legend (think van helsing if you've seen it. Perfect example). With his raw strength increased several times over, Argen bellowed against the shadowy restraints, attempting to force his way out of them on pure strength alone. 


The thing about black magic is...it's deadly to all living things. Struggling against it like he did burned thick fur and flesh alike, filling the tavern with the smell of burning wolf. The pain served as fuel, furthering his drive to break his restraints and sure enough, with a primal roar, the beast broke free of his dark chains. Blood now flowed freely down his chest and arms from the backlash of the dark magic. A curse that Argen didn't understand but could feel it immediately weakening him. But now was not the time for weakness! "Elise we must go!!" He yelled. Though his voice was no longer capable of words. Instead it was the contract he formed with Elise that allowed him to speak with her in a way similar to telepathy. An old binding contract shown to him by the elders of his tribe. What he used with all his contractors. 


His massive, clawed hand reached to Elise's restraints and were burned on contact, just as bad as the wounds that bled freely upon his torso and arms. With a harsh growl, he ripped the restraints off of his boss and turned his golden eyes to the fallen princess. No words were said but the gesture was clear, "Move or die here." The lycan hauled his master on her feet and "spoke" once again, "Climb on my back and let us be gone from this place!"

 

[St. Boethius]

Benton was startled when he heard the man yell at him to not move. Of course he wasn't going to stop and let himself be captured here! Benton was ready to get out of there anyway, and he needed to replace these organs soon or even he would end up dying. He a look over at the others and was astonished to not only see those children free, but to see that the Lycan had forced his way out despite the pain he must have been feeling. The beat's power and loyalty to what Benton guessed was his master put him at ease in a way. The Lycan seemed to want to help to Evilin and if she had that thing on her side he didn't need to worry. Benton made a gesture to Evilin's shadow then promptly jumped through the window like an athlete would jump over a hurdle and ran as fast as his legs would carry him into the woods, carrying the jar of organs like a foot ball. He would need to take a different route back to his cabin.


The darkness that once enveloped the room began converging into Evilin's shadow. Light once again gave way, but those who haven't broken free from their shadowy captors were still bound. the light clashing against their shadowy forms the shadows' touch began burning the flesh they held. The light weakened the shadows enabling those strong enough to shake off and strike down their shadowy counterpart. 


Evelin's shadow was now bound by Benton's magic and would rise up to protect her if she was attacked or if she called for help.

 

[ShadTheWerepire]

Everything was winding down, people were being diplomatic, maybe nothing would come of this.  Wait, he paused and thought about what Karn had just said, princess, this street filth just got a lot more interesting.  But it seemed the traitorous princess was being released as the laws of the land came into play, funny how that sometimes works in your favor. 


Dominic relaxed and started letting his guard down when the black smoke shrouded the room in darkness.  Shadowy hands curled up from the floor boards and began binding themselves around his ankles as they traveled up his body they continued to paralyze him.  When the shadows reached his back his scar began to burn, it wasn’t on fire but it felt like smoldering coals were resting there ready to ignite and bring the pain of that night back. 


The sudden onset of dull pain growing on his back led him to panic, he pulled against the bonds and his struggle sparked his fists to burst into flames.  He was in so little control of his powers as they mingled with his emotions but they freed his hands. 


The dark fled from the light, making him very visible to the other patrons.  With his hands free he went for his sword.  As he clutched it the oil dripped down to his hands and the whole thing ignited.  In an awkward movement he began cutting at the shadowy bonds, brushing the burning blade against his boots and pants, occasionally leaving a smoldering spot.  Others seemed to have been freed by more elegant methods but he was getting the job done.  His back cooled and he could begin re-centering himself.  

 

[Nogoodname]

As the room filled with darkness Elise felt her heart sink with fear, unsure of what was going on now, she tried to make her way up to her room in the confusion but found her arm caught on something.  Tugging against the thing she found a similar shadow had bound her other arm and legs, her eyes widened in fear as she struggled against her bindings, sending a searing pain into her wrists which only caused her to panic more.  She tried to cry out for help but found herself paralyzed by fear.  Around her, other things appeared to be happening, although she could hardly move her head to look.  She heard the sound of the boy again as he talked with his group about something, a rather wet tearing sound she'd rather not think about, and something from her companion next to her.  He appeared to be shouting about magic, clearly these bindings were the work of some form of mage, but unfortunately she couldn't see what was going on in the room.  


Looking over to the source of the burning smell she noticed where her companion stood was something entirely different, the creature let out a terrifying roar as it tore through it's bonds like nothing.  Elise heard a voice echo in her mind, yelling that they needed to leave as the creature tore her from her bindings before sending another mental message to climb onto it's back to escape.  Without a second thought she followed the creatures orders, climbing onto him and holding tight to his neck "my gear!" she called down to him, looking up to the room where her things were stashed.  She desperately needed to collect her things if she wanted a chance to defend herself.  


Now able to see around the room, she noticed that in the quick time they had been bound had erupted the place into chaos, others had broken free of their bindings and were investigating the source of the magic.