IC RP

[Ms. Sparrow]

 Azalea Dilaurentis 
​

 
​

Azalea let out an angry hiss of breath as Inir slashed Arkady's arm. Gritting her teeth. Robert would not be pleased with Inir, or her own behavior today. But she had bigger problems at the moment. She opened her mouth to argue with Inir, that she'd learned how to fight since he was captured, but decided against it. They didn't have the time. Azalea turned and took a step towards Arkady. 


But a step was all she got. 


The sound of something heavy being thrown made her dive to the ground, narrowly missing a Shade's spear, it wized over her head. When she flipped over unto her back. Azalea sat up and inhaled sharply, her jaw dropping. 


Shades everywhere, they'd appeared out of nowhere. More magic. They surrounded the guards in a circle, wielding spears, aiming towards them, some guards already having been ran through with spears, only the ones that tried to fire their crossbows wound up dead.  Black  masses floating in trees, looking down on them with empty eye sockets. Everything was still. Nobody dared move. They were severely outnumbered by ten to fourteen more Shades. 


But how had they been cloaked? It'd require a lot of magic. It wasn't Ahren/Somiss's style either. And Shades certainly weren't clever enough to make such a plan on there own. 


Azalea wished she hadn't asked. 


She got her answer as the circle of Shades, then guards parted for the Demon Lord. In his human form, a tall, handsome figure, with eyes as cold as ice itself, so cold one wouldn't want to hold his gaze for longer then a minute. Pale skin, a specter of high cheekbones, and white-blonde hair, groomed and left down, his straight hair resting on his shoulders. His sword was sheathed, most likely because he didn't need it to scare his enemies. Dressed in elegant, rich light armor, very expensive, and did nicely for protection as well. It wasn't just his armor though. He had his fair share of wealthy, trademark jewels and gold on him. 


Lord Vauzuhm. He'd taken Erisdar no less then a month ago, and was already greatly feared. Infamous for capturing anybody unfortunate to wander into his path, and making them slaves. Nobody had a chance of freedom in Erisdar, and when people started avoiding Erisdar, Vauzuhm began to wander out into other Demon Lords territory, and capture innocents. Cruel and unforgiving, known to have a quick temper...he was not something you ever wanted to meet. 


"Rotter."  Azalea muttered,her lips pressed thinly together as she stood up, glaring daggers at Vauzuhm, she adjust her arm slightly, a hidden knife slid in between her fingers, but she kept it hidden from his sight. 


Vauzuhm's cold eyes ran over all three of them, trapped in the circle, resting on Azalea a moment longer then it should have, a hint of a smile gracing his lips. It was clearly taking her a great amount of strain to not attack him. 


"Pardon the interruption," Vauzuhm began, his voice dripping in silk strands. "I could not help but notice you possess some, ah, fighters in your group." Vauzuhm paused, whom had lazily been walking around the small space stood, looking towards Arkady and Inir, a smile curving his lips. "I have not run into some for quite some time now." 


"Sorry," Azalea began, shaking her head and throwing up her arms as if he'd come too late, or she couldn't do anything to help. "Not for sale." Azalea said flatly. 


Vauzuhm whipped around, his icy eyes narrowed into thin slits, he clearly was not used to being talked back to, and took a threatening step towards Azalea. 


@ShadowBroker @Calm

 

[ShadowBroker]

I N I R   W A R D E N




Inir saw how the guard began to be destroy upon the spears of the demons. His crossbow only fired once and hardly manage to pierce a single shade that would be quickly replaced by another and so on. He dropped the crossbow and wield his sword but did not move any further or retreat. He was surrounded.


His sword began to point to all directions, facing each spear end that could give him the dead blow. His eyes shifted from a shadow to the other and realize this was not to be a man slaughter - this was just a show of power. Regardless, a deadly show of power. And as any show, the host came in a late respond, approaching from between the clouds of darkness. A creature? Even more, a Demon Lord. This was not Legion's plan but he heard of him in one of his talks with the other Lord. He was a slaver, and as any slaver - he came for business. Not senseless slaughter.


But like hell he would become slave, he rather fight until he had no more breath than kneel chained and defeated. But then, the demon picked an interest in Lady Azaela, who, rapidly, raised a threat. She deny him from the prize of conquest, which were both Arkady and himself. Something must be done and quickly. An idea came as desperation grew. But it was too fresh to be used. The Lord Demon began his path towards her when Inir stood between The Demon and Lady Azaela. His sword was not pointing at him, he held it from the beginning of the blade, right after the guard as he spoke, "I am Inir Warden, Knight of Vorch and slayer of the demon your master called 'Voris'." he claimed, putting a high prize on his own head, "You are Lord Vauzuhm, wearing the marks of a trader of good." he nodded with respect, "Let them go. Arkady is of no use to you, I have cut his arms and is not capable to hold anything. I am more valuable he is." his eyes staring him, though not directly into his eyes, but his whole body, "You have killed some guards, there are more trained soldiers on the Keep, they will arrive with no delay." he nodded again with all seriousness, "Take me with you and let them go." his plan lays on whatever the Demon believes him that people were coming or not. If the Vauzuhm wasted such an amount of magic to conceal such an amount of shadows, it means he wasn't here with his full army force. At least that was Inir hoped so.


@Ms. Sparrow @Calm 

 

[thetasfiasco]

Arkady Arsenyev


@Ms. Sparrow @ShadowBroker


Arkady had found himself on his side, clutching his upper arm where Inir had cut it, when the Shades came around. The wound burned harshly, but he was more concerned about his shoulder. On the landing he certainly messed it up a little bit... So,  though he hated the fact that Inir claimed he was no good for fighting, he wasn't wrong. But, that didn't mean he couldn't run his mouth a little.


Arkady sat up, still holding his bloodied upper arm, and he glanced at the Shade leader. Or, whomever he was... Arkady hadn't been paying attention. "Azalea's right. Not for sale. For hire, though..." He smiled a little. "Every man has his price." He joked, only to get a rouse out of Azalea. He looked back at her, chuckling a little. "Can't imagine Azalea would be happy about me selling myself to a guy." Arkady looked back to the slender man confident, but froze with embarrassment. "I mean, not like, selling my body, or.. I don't.. I'm not like.." He choked up a little. "You get the idea.."

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

 Azalea Dilaurentis 
​

 
​

Azalea took a step towards Vauzuhm, both looking to come to blows, Azalea never being able to step down from a challenge or battle, just then Inir interfered, Vauzuhm stopped in his tracks, his eyes narrowing further. Her eyes widened in alarm as Inir told Vauzuhm whom he was, and volunteered to sacrifice himself. 


They were so screwed. 


Arkady's comment didn't help. She shot a look at him, "Arkady, if you don't shutup, you're about to become some guys toy for a night."   Azalea warned quietly in a low tone, her lips hardly moving, clenching her jaw tightly,  her blue eyes holding a fire in them ready to take on anyone, not taking her eyes off the Demon Lord. Too blunt and fiery for her own good. 


 Vauzuhm looked ready to murder Arkady and Azalea for their mouths, but stopped as Inirs words quickly dawned on him. 


"Inir Warden," he smiled. "Naturally." 


Vauzuhm cold eyes flicked over the three, a smile grew on his face. His white teeth gleamed as he threw back his head and chuckled. Azalea grimaced.


"Ah, a royal. He's been looking for you." Vauzuhm's eyes flicked over to Azalea, smiling a thin, cold smile. "But you already knew that, didn't you?" He asked, cocking his head. Just then, his eyes flicked to her neck. His eyes widened before narrowing at the silver object. 


On her silver necklace. 


Vauzuhm's eye twitched. 


He pushed past Inir and Arkady, his eyes narrowed angrily in quick strides, "Tell me," he growled, stepping closer to her. Azalea backed up until she nearly stepped on a guards foot. She leaned as far back as she could as he leaned into her, although not a trace of fear was shown, she resisted the urge to cringe. He smelled like death itself. "How you were able to get that? I should very much like to know--" 


Azalea cut him off by boxing him right in the face, with such a quick force of her hand his head snapped to the side. With her other hand, she shoved the hidden knife deeply in his gut, Vauzuhm let an an enraged strangled cry as he pulled the knife from his gut. 


 She did it purely out of anger and fear. If she lost her necklace she lost her foothold against Somiss. Her only defense against magic, a very small defense, but one nonetheless. The Shades turned on the guards and began to attack. Battle rang out, although most guards did the smart thing and ran for the Keep. It was there only chance of escape. Vauzuhm wouldn't be incapacitated longer then about 20 seconds. 


@Calm @ShadowBroker

 

[Lappi]

location - Northern Wilderness. Snow on the ground, 45 degrees, movement direction: south, running.


We pan to a man falling down a hill, this man is Atlas, why was he falling. Well he jumped, several demons were following him by taking the long way around. Which would give him a few minutes via taking the 'shortcut' if he did not twist his ankle on the way down, as well as hitting his head. Neither of which helped his case. Making him limp and move quite slow. He left a few items of his laying around in the fall. Which if you had hounds could be used to sniff him out.


     He was considered a outlaw. Not paying taxes and often killing any 'tax collector' who came near him, making the demons really want to bring him to justice, because someone killing demons leads to peasants to thinking about just how many demons are in this small village.


      He left quite the trail trying to run and limp. The trail just kept on going. The footprints were light on one print. And deep on the other signaling a limp. But most untrained people could not notice this. However it does not take training to notice the broken branches, and footprints. 


(Anyone can jump in. If anyone controls the demons, you can take them from here. Though it's only 2- 3 demons.)

 

[ShadowBroker]

I N I R   W A R D E N










An opportunity broke in the middle of the interview and Inir dashed forward towards the keep using his sword as only mean to parry away any spear in his way, using his thick armor to deflect their thrust as he managed to find a path between the shadows. He started to think what he should do, what he could possibly do alone? How much oil would Arlan have to keep them at bay? His brave mind shattered upon the dependence Legion inflected on him. He started to hesitate if not calling his brother was the best course of action.


His body slammed the doors open as the guards within the path would look rather odd to him, he would yell, "Inisde!" to Azaela and Arkady as he waited for them to enter and close the doors right behind them. The soldiers would, at any point, help him close the gates and call for the reinforcement - hitting the alarm.


He could feel the wound on his belly, there was no pain only a cold sensation. A mark of death that never seem to disappear - like a demon tracker. Whenever he was near a Demon Lord he would feel the same cold, lifeless sensation of void. He whispered once, "- Legion -" two more times, and it would arrive.


@Ms. Sparrow @Calm @Proxploxtops @Baku






D E M O N S  -  A T L A S




The shadows would behold the outlaw escaping from them as he jumped down a hill with extreme desperation to hide. But the shadows did not need to jump or go around. Like clouds of darkness, the simply floated over the surfaces and landed with ease on the ground, leaving a fog collapsing on the ground like the claws of night scraping inch by inch as it goes wider and takes over the sky - in this case, the ground. The shadows, as they recreate their own forms and weapons - spears - start to chase once more the man who was limping away.


There was no need to track the marks - the shadows could smell the sweat on his face, they could hear the desperation on his feet and agitated breath. The beast ran after him with reckless abandon of any tactics. Just the wolfs hunting a sheep.


@Yappi






R O B E R T   M U R E




Robert woke up as early as did Inir, but he did not move from his bed until ten seconds. As a cunning warrior, his mayor conflict was to adapt his military force to accept mercenaries. People who fight only for the one who pays better, who offers more in exchange of less. Although Lady Azaela gave him a different perspective, a more warm hopeful perspective, that did not mean that his normal warrior traits would dispel out. But he only needed ten seconds to give it a thought, ten seconds and it was over.


He raised from his bed, washed his head and fetched his armor and weapons. Even as lord on his own castle, he was too paranoid to let his guard down for a single moment, not even take that heavy weight that he grew accustomed. Though fine clothes of silk, or light leather has never been of his choice in any possible way. He could hear from his very chambers the soldiers being trained, the recruits. He was glad Inir Warden arrived at The Keep, another warrior that shared his mind though he was rather reckless, more instructed in the zeal of war rather than it's arts. Nevertheless, a challenge and a great asset for the training grounds.


( @Baku )


But he couldn't just stop thinking about what happened to him the last pair of months- and as if its wasn't enough. Cross seemed eager to see him. He wanted Inir to test him, even Lady Azaela - but he may have just to accept him without mayor question. "Cross." the words came as whistle of an arrow, the man lost in the corridors, "I believe we have unfinished business-" Robert said as he took Cross to a more private chamber, though not his own. Two guards escort him out of the main hall and they started to speak of the prices, how much they would be able to pay them - since the world is upside down, silver wasn't regularly a tendency. Supplies, a better position when the war is over, some lands to work, a title - things like that were offered in times of war; at least in this times.


The meeting supposed to be a success, if it wasn't for the exhausted soldier that would reach such private chamber to comment about Inir's decision for a trial of combat against Arkady, the traitor. As much Robert would have liked to get dispose of such useless weight, a trial by combat wasn't Arlan's way, at least not this fast without further preparation at his own garden. He ordered the few guards he had to follow him and Cross as well.


The moment Robert reached the gate that lead to the garden, the three - Azaela, Arkady and Inir were rushing towards door, or at least that appeared - he hardly noticed the clouds of darkness beyond the entrance. But he could felt on his heart like a hunch that dead was just on his door step. "By the seven realms-" he exclaimed surprised.

 

[Lappi]

I N I R   W A R D E N










An opportunity broke in the middle of the interview and Inir dashed forward towards the keep using his sword as only mean to parry away any spear in his way, using his thick armor to deflect their thrust as he managed to find a path between the shadows. He started to think what he should do, what he could possibly do alone? How much oil would Arlan have to keep them at bay? His brave mind shattered upon the dependence Legion inflected on him. He started to hesitate if not calling his brother was the best course of action.


His body slammed the doors open as the guards within the path would look rather odd to him, he would yell, "Inisde!" to Azaela and Arkady as he waited for them to enter and close the doors right behind them. The soldiers would, at any point, help him close the gates and call for the reinforcement - hitting the alarm.


He could feel the wound on his belly, there was no pain only a cold sensation. A mark of death that never seem to disappear - like a demon tracker. Whenever he was near a Demon Lord he would feel the same cold, lifeless sensation of void. He whispered once, "- Legion -" two more times, and it would arrive.


@Ms. Sparrow @Calm @Proxploxtops @Baku






D E M O N S  -  A T L A S




The shadows would behold the outlaw escaping from them as he jumped down a hill with extreme desperation to hide. But the shadows did not need to jump or go around. Like clouds of darkness, the simply floated over the surfaces and landed with ease on the ground, leaving a fog collapsing on the ground like the claws of night scraping inch by inch as it goes wider and takes over the sky - in this case, the ground. The shadows, as they recreate their own forms and weapons - spears - start to chase once more the man who was limping away.


There was no need to track the marks - the shadows could smell the sweat on his face, they could hear the desperation on his feet and agitated breath. The beast ran after him with reckless abandon of any tactics. Just the wolfs hunting a sheep.


@Yappi

Atlas was starting to slow. He knew this so he sat down and sipped his water relaxing for a moment. He nearly crashed into the rock sitting down. He needed to think clearly. He only had about a minute to do it before the demons would catch up. 2 of the bastards he saw. One, on one was hard enough, but 2 on one would be nearly impossible. The worst part about demons is not there reckless tactics or power. It's the fact even the grunts are strong. With minimal armour and weapons, the grunts can take down nearly anyone. Which scared him. 


   Atlas never really believed in superstition but he prayed for some sort of a miracle, anything would help him now. Anything. In his panic he stood up and saw a river through the outcropping in the woods. Not his definition of a miracle... But it might help. More of a stream actually, 20 feet across and around 1 1/2 foot deep. He reckoned he had 3 options after seeing this. But he took one that was a no brainer. Cross the river of course.


    He starting to limp towards the river and dip his feet in. Grunting in pain, trying to fight the (light) current of the river with his hurt ankle. He doesn't know what the demons will do to him, maybe imprison him, maybe execute him in the village, then again he has heard of worse things such as soul entrapment, or enslavement.


   But he quickly threw these thoughts away. He made it about 1/3 across the stream. grunting in pain and nearly falling over twice all the while. The slick, rough stones not treating his boots the best. Cutting small holes into the soles.

 

[ShadowBroker]

D E M O N S  -  A T L A S




As Atlas crossed the river over, the demons would began to get out from the vegetation, darkness following close by. One of them screams as it tries to intimidate the man, throwing chills down his spine. The other went with a more sadistic course of action. He took his spear from a different angle, raised it over his shoulder and threw with the same scream, attempting to either wound the man till the point of cease his movements, or deliver the dead blow piercing his armor and reaching for his chest - though there was also the possibility to miss.


The creatures seemed to float over the surface, water - though demons were not afraid of the water. They started move through it regardless of the speed of the river, or how deep it was. They seemed ready to take Atlas down. He was slowing down while the demons seemed less effected by the river than himself. A miracle - indeed - had to happen.


Just then, three men with bows and arrows came out from the vegetation of the other side. They were wearing dark clothes, hardened leather with some plate armor pieces around the gear. One of them, older than the rest, looked like a barbarian, scar near his eye and brown empty eyes where someone could get lost for years. He was wearing a black cape, an axe and old shield with the emblem of an ancient house on both of his hands instead of a bow. His voice sounded like one of those old generals who lived too long shouting, heavy and loud - "For who do you fight, boy?" the old man asked as the demons got closer. One of the soldiers already set up the arrows with fire, but did not shoot until their commander gave them the order. The man is Huge Malevar, a great commander of the old world. But his renown would hardly arrive to the rest of the Kingdoms. Those who didn't live at the times of the great war would never had the chance to hear about him.


@Yappi

 

[Bakuyoshi]

"I'm assuming them running is a bad sign. Just tell me to split some heads, light a weapon on fire and I'll do it. Heck I see a lot that could be used as weapons against those shades." Cross was looking at everything. Namely the woods that surrounded them. He tended to go all out and if he were to be given permission everything was a weapon. And he knew if shades were surrounding them all they needed to do was set that forest ablaze.


@ShadowBroker (You are Prox for the day)

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

 Azalea Dilaurentis 
​

 
​

Just as Azalea nearly reached the gate, something hard slammed into her waist from the side, the opposite end of the spear smashed into her, sending her crashing to the ground, her attacker, Vauzuhm, pure rage in his ice cold eyes. 


Azalea found herself self lying on her back, Vauzuhm aiming the spear at her throat, she could feel the cold tip of the blade against her skin, daring to go deeper. She didn't dare breath. 


"Release it, Azalea." He growled. 


Azalea hesitated, a million thoughts going through her mind. 


"Release it!" He roared, the spear went deeper, drawing the slightest drop of blood.


Hating herself, Azalea unfasten the necklace, but instead of simply removing it, in one quick, unexpected movement, she threw the silver necklace, hitting Vauzuhm in the cheek. He made an inhuman noise. The spear clanged to the ground.


She shot of the ground, and dove for the necklace, but Vauzuhm caught her first, he boxed her into a tree, colors exploded before her eyes as her head slammed against the tree, she swayed, slightly dazed. Another punch to the cheek sent her sailing to the ground. She suddenly felt as if her limbs had no blood, hardly able to lift a finger. He was draining her of strength. Magic. 


Black boots with gold trim, followed by a knee was all she could see, Vauzuhm's form taking up her entire vision. He grinned an animalistic grin, his eyes lit with triumph. 


"I've come to collect," he sneered. "Our Master has been looking for you royals for a very long time."


"Ugh...I'm gonna kill you.." Azalea muttered weakly, feeling something hard under her hip. Her necklace. She slowly worked her fingers to get it, taking a great amount of strength. 


Vauzuhm laughed. "Don't kill the messenger Azalea, we both know what happens when he doesn't get what he wants." He brushed a loose strand of hair from her face. He cocked his head, as if he were a puppy staring at his new toy. "We wouldn't want that would we?" He asked softly, smirking coldly.


Azalea wiped the triumphant smirk off his face as she swung her arm out from under her, weakly boxing him across the face, clutching her necklace, nearly losing all her strength. 


Vauzuhm screamed, the magic instantly wore off her body, and she leapt in him, tackling him to the floor, pinning him down with her small form, although he'd easily be able to push her off, he never got the chance. 


Azalea pressed the silver necklace against his cheek. Vauzuhm cried out and writhed under her, the smell of burning skin evident, his human form began to melt like candle wax, but only slightly. The magic in the necklace wasn't nearly that strong. 


Sitting firmly on his chest, Azalea kept her necklace harshly pressed against his cheek, Vauzuhm writhed under her, her other hand grabbed his chin and forced him to look at her, her jaw clenched and eyes blazing. 


"Somiss wants us, you tell that little bitch to come get us himself," Azalea's voice dropped, turning into a cold, dark hiss, she leaned into him. "And you know what, I do believe in killing the messenger, you know why?" Azalea's voice dripped with venom, she leaned in closer, her faces inches from his. "Because it sends a message." Azalea then, pulled a knife from her boot, letting go of his chin, and stabbed into straight through his hand. Vauzuhm screamed an inhuman, demonic noise of rage.


Azalea rolled off him, and shot off the floor, necklace in hand. She ran through the door, clutching her necklace tightly in hand, into temporarily safety. 


@Calm @ShadowBroker @Baku

 

[ShadowBroker]

I N I R  &  R O B E R T




Robert considered the idea as disastrous although effective. As he gave cross a crossbow with bolts carrying the smell of oil, he responded, "If we burn the forest, our Keep's walls would burn." he prepared a crossbow himself, knowing his blade little could do to the shadows themselves, "Walls are of old stone but the floors and windows are of wood. Our furniture, our stacks, quarters - everything will burn." he shook his head as he aimed towards the door, not capable from see the shadows getting any closer, suspiciously, "Aim for the head!" the guards got around Lord Robert to keep him protected, not that he needed protection at all.


Inir was holding the door when the beast took Azaela from behind - "Legion-" he said a second time, now his voice cracked and knew that, even if he finished his sentence, his army would take too much to reach here. How much good would it do if everyone is like this? He stopped, hesitate from the cowards words requesting help which prize he did not know. His breath become heavy and hard to restore, his eyes narrowed and finally on his reckless state forgot about the clouds of darkness holding the spears from beyond.


He moved out to take her back inside only to - hear it out. "Somiss." not only what he heard but what he saw. She was using her necklace like a device to destroy the demons, or at least hurt them pretty badly. He wondered if the rest would have seen what he was beholding. A weapon that could give people hope. But why hide it from the rest of them? It was no time for idiotic questions. She was coming back at him and thus he closed the door right after he passed through, the guard beside him helped to close the gate and lock it down. As Inir kicked the door in gesture of frustration as he thought there could be a better solution. He looked over his should just to trade a question with Azaela, not the one she expected though, "Are they going to charge at us?" his eyes shifting from the necklace to her eyes, indicating the evident. Not only he saw what she did, he also open the inquiry if it was enough to scare the demon away.


@Ms. Sparrow @Baku @Proxploxtops

 

[Lappi]

D E M O N S  -  A T L A S




As Atlas crossed the river over, the demons would began to get out from the vegetation, darkness following close by. One of them screams as it tries to intimidate the man, throwing chills down his spine. The other went with a more sadistic course of action. He took his spear from a different angle, raised it over his shoulder and threw with the same scream, attempting to either wound the man till the point of cease his movements, or deliver the dead blow piercing his armor and reaching for his chest - though there was also the possibility to miss.


The creatures seemed to float over the surface, water - though demons were not afraid of the water. They started move through it regardless of the speed of the river, or how deep it was. They seemed ready to take Atlas down. He was slowing down while the demons seemed less effected by the river than himself. A miracle - indeed - had to happen.


Just then, three men with bows and arrows came out from the vegetation of the other side. They were wearing dark clothes, hardened leather with some plate armor pieces around the gear. One of them, older than the rest, looked like a barbarian, scar near his eye and brown empty eyes where someone could get lost for years. He was wearing a black cape, an axe and old shield with the emblem of an ancient house on both of his hands instead of a bow. His voice sounded like one of those old generals who lived too long shouting, heavy and loud - "For who do you fight, boy?" the old man asked as the demons got closer. One of the soldiers already set up the arrows with fire, but did not shoot until their commander gave them the order. The man is Huge Malevar, a great commander of the old world. But his renown would hardly arrive to the rest of the Kingdoms. Those who didn't live at the times of the great war would never had the chance to hear about him.


@Yappi

Atlas started to put 2 and 2 together. And yelled out trying to get them to shoot the demons "I am from up north! I used to be a solider from the La'lune. I survived the siege 6 months ago! I've been fighting on my own for 6 months... Please Help!!!" He yells trying to get them to listen. But in his panic he chose his words quite poorly. The demons catching up to him made him move faster and trick over rolling on his side, He scrambled up and kept moving as fast as he could. His boots seals starting to break. Making water flood his boots. Making it even harder for him to move.

 

[Bakuyoshi]

Cross looked down at the Crossbow. He was not that great with these so he had to be careful. Especially if there was oil in the shots. "On your mark man. I ain't firing this thing unless I know the shot can do some damage. Or doing something to scare the bastards off." If it was his sword he would be rushing in without giving a damn about what this Robert fellow thought. But alas he had to make a good introduction for his clients. And clients usually liked someone who didn't rush off without an order.


@Proxploxtops

 

[ShadowBroker]

H U G E   M A L E V A R




The old man's chuckle turned into a cringe as he gave the order to his fellow brothers. Though the demons were already at bay, a few claws before ripping out Atlas's throat, a narrow arrow with fired would pierce it's head; passing almost too close from the runner himself. The second archer fires it's arrow at the right time and location as he expected the demon to hesitate, ending with him with a quick shot that would hit on the beast's heart, or center mass. Regardless would be enough to destroy both of this pathetic minions.


Huge Malevar would then approach to Atlas but not getting himself in the water himself, dropping his shield and axe aside, though he had another weapon resting on his belt - he seemed rather friendly this time, "The Order of the Bear welcomes you." he responds giving him the idea that these men were Vorch soldiers. But he would also knew that Vorch is under Demon Lord's rule; Legion itself. But his doubts did not need to get very far away to reach to such possible conclusion since Lord Commander Malevar find no reason to lie, "We serve the true and only Lord of Vorch -" 


@Yappi

 

[thetasfiasco]

Arkady Arsenyev
Ms. Sparrow ShadowBroker

Arkady had followed Inir into the building without a second thought, assuming Azalea would be right behind them. Once he got inside and looked back to ask her what exactly happened (because he sure as hell wasn't following the conversation), his heart sank. He couldn't quite see her over the commotion, and he sure as hell didn't plan on going back out after her... Even if the thought passed through his head a couple times. After a few seconds, he huffed and started pacing, not sure what to do.

After a short while, Arkady whipped around to see Inir and Azalea. It couldn't have been more than a minute since him and Inir came inside, but he was worried white as snow. "Where the hell were you?" He asked, like a protective father. He was worried she'd ask the same question... It would be valid. He should've gone back. Arkady crossed his arms, waiting for an answer, not letting his thoughts surface.

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Azalea Dilaurentis​

Azalea watched Inirs reaction, seeing him glance down at her necklace. Her heart dropped. He'd seen the effects of the magic. Now she'd have to tell them, or it'd seem worse if she didn't. Azalea averted her eyes from Inir in a guilty fashion. "Right now, we outnumber them. But he'll be back." Azalea said in a low voice. Knowing she'd just enraged a Demon Lord. She didn't know how long it would be until Vauzuhm returned. Or his Master. Azalea had been keeping secrets from everyone. Secrets that put them at risk. She glanced around for Arkady, growing increasingly worried as the seconds passed that she couldn't see him.

Azalea recovered from her frantic thoughts, as sharp voice cut into her thoughts. Azalea turned to see Arkady striding towards her, some soldiers and guards parted for him, his tone, and question took her off guard, but she found herself in same tone. "I was busy getting my ass kicked by a Demon Lord! Where were you?" Azalea demanded, even though relief was flooding through her at the sight he'd been unharmed.

ShadowBroker thetasfiasco

 

[HeckingHeck]

Robert Mure

Location: Arlan Keep

Robert could only stare at the black forest as Arkady, Inir and Azalea ran through the gates. The guards of course hastily shut it and locked it down right after. He sighed as the guards formed a small possy around him before starting at the mercenary. It was dishonorable, how the mercenary had to be tolerated. What was needed were loyal, brave and strong men, Robert never knew a mercenary to stand firm and fight to no end given any situation.

"Man the walls damn it, I have a sword for a reason!" He said though their was relief that he has men around him he could trust before turning to a bitter tone, "You'll keep watch mercenary, if you dare run or sell us out, I will personally see you off with a sword"

Robert nodded at their leader and sped down the stairs to meet the newcomers. He took one glance at Arkady before a small fire was lit in his heart. A sudden rage filled his head-how could such a traitor still live, risking the lives of his friends and still have the nerve return. It was only with much restraint that he didn't stick him with his sword at that very moment though however rash it may be.

It may have been true that their guards outnumber the demons though for how long? Surely more would come and they would be killed. The castle was hopeless to hold, they had come to it as a place of secrecy and protection. Now that the demons had discovered it it would be futile to stay. The castle itself may be able to hold out for quite some time, perhaps a few weeks if the Assualt turns to siege but that was only if they rationed. Scaling the walls would be difficult given they were on a hill. Their was one other way inside the castle and that was through a door at the bottom of the hill though small. It would be a costly Assualt due to the chikepoints if it were to be discovered.

I'm getting preoccupied, he scolded himself in his head.

A small part of him thought it was rational to worry however. This was a matter of life and death.

"He belongs back in a cell!" Robert said in anger, "He could have gotten you all killed..."
​

ShadowBroker Ms. Sparrow thetasfiasco Bakuyoshi

 

[ShadowBroker]

I N I R W A R D E N


He couldn't do anything about it, nor he wanted to. Knowing the fact she had a device of such power with her was enough. Then he remembered what he was doing before the both entered back to the castle - calling for Legion. A third time and it was over, his brother would arrive and the discord would conclude. He thought again, obviously, not being in real danger there was no point to call for him, to request his aid. Lastly, the only way to ensure his arrival won't come with a heavy cost, he do had to make him arrive when Azaela was not here, or aware of his presence.

"We must reinforce these doors. Keep the guards off the walls and take them inside. If they can appear out of no where, people on top won't do much good." he suggested Robert as the man arrived. Just then when he expressed his dislike of Arkady to be out, he nodded, "True - but the cell is no longer a safe place to keep him." he attempted to persuade Robert, "You neglected my suggestion before, now we will have to deal with this threat. We must withdraw to the hall and chain the traitor." he almost whispered as a cunning adviser upon Robert's ear. He moves to enclose him, giving him another few tips of war tactics in order to control the collateral damage.

H HeckingHeck Ms. Sparrow thetasfiasco Bakuyoshi

 

[thetasfiasco]

Arkady Arsevyev
ShadowBroker Ms. Sparrow H HeckingHeck

Arkady uncrossed his arms angrily and opened his mouth to talk, but slowly shut it a few moments later. He sighed, "I'm sorry. I should've gone back.." He admitted. He wasn't proud of it by any means... But he'd have time to reflect later. He caught a glance from Robert, which he returned with a slight tint of confusion. Again, Arkady opened his mouth to talk, but this time was cut off by someone other than himself.

"Excuse me? What have I done since I got out? Nothing! Doesn't that at least say something in my favor?" He crossed his arms again, turning his body to face Robert. He didn't move when Inir started talking regarding him, but he acknowledged it. "Thank you, Inir.." He said, gesturing to him with the hand closest to the man. He turned to Inir when he mentioned chaining him up. "Wha- I thought you were on my side?!" He exclaimed, his voice plagued with disbelief. He huffed and turned, storming off down a random hall, no real destination in mind. Hopefully, they'd just let him leave. He'd find them later.. He doubted Azalea would just let him leave like that, though.

 

[ShadowBroker]

I N I R W A R D E N


Inir in particular would not let this happen, not while Robert commanded otherwise. The guards behind Robert would have stopped Arkady from leaving shortly after he do try to storm out. Then, he would so speak out loud, "Guards! Do as you are all told. Restrain the traitor." before Robert could even comment about his suggestion, he would speak up once more in order to give weight to his point of view, "Your side? And what side is that, Traitor? A coward's side? A merciless mercenary's side? You have done so little, you even escaped your arrest as if this was some kind of joke to you." he shakes his head in true disappointment, "We are at war with forced we do not understand and you have the nerve to question our resolve? Since I knew you, you have only gave me an excuse to kill another man alive." he then focused his attention to Robert as the guards would finally stop the traitor's moves until the Lord of the castle commands otherwise, "My lord -" he expressed as he turned around, "This has gone too far. Mercenaries - Traitors. What world are you planning to build if this is the way you triumph? There must be order."

 

[Bakuyoshi]

"Just take it Cross it comes with the Territory." Cross went and kept watch. While mostly ignoring the whole issue of whatever was going down. He doesn't care so long as he gets to talk about his reward. But there were no gurantees they would succeed. All too common really. And in all cases someone has called him a traitor. A shade caught his eye and without hesitation fired the Crossbow watching the thing be set aflame. "Just to be clear you can say whatever. No skin off my back."

H HeckingHeck thetasfiasco ShadowBroker Ms. Sparrow

 

[HeckingHeck]

Robert Mure

Location: Arlan Keep

Robert was taken aback by Inir's sudden shade of slyness. It reminded him of a man he had read in a book, something along the lines of Rasputin. The thought made him laugh inside though he still seemed stone cold outside, just as the night sky was and always will be. He listened to Inir and gave it a thought. Defending the keep would certainly be easy and costly for defenders though it was a matter of how long they could last. It would turn to a Battle of attrition where each side could only throw arrows and bodies at each other. It would be unconventional to say the least. Of course, Inir was the master of unconventional. Arlanian keeps of course always had small tunnels to escape if needed in a siege though often hard to find. The castle's keep were in much better condition that the outer walls and they could only enter through the front gates.

"Aye, we bring this traitor in chains at the hall..." Robert struggled to find the words he wanted to say next, "We... We defend the halls, perhaps you have a plan then Inir?"

The guards were already hurrying down and running after Arkady, sword arms at the ready if need be. He gave a stare at Inir and then at Arkady. He despised mercenaries and traitors as did most with honor. Inir was right, mercenaries didn't belong here. This was not the Arlanian tactic. Robert needed order and loyalty instead of fools posing to be soldiers.

"Aye Inir, but what will you have me do? These mercenaries have found us because if Azalea's tongue... I don't like it much but we can't have these hooligans running off until we get a hold of this...This situations!" Robert went off bitterly, "If we make it out of this alive, I'll personally see them off and out of here"

Robert gritted through his last words. What they needed were soldiers, bodies to defend them. It was an unsaid truth but a necessary one. If they were to have a chance, even a small chance at that to take back Sarthenfall, then they needed as much bodies as possible. Besides, some mercenaries have warmed closer to their employers. Perhaps this was one of the rare instances where it happens.


ShadowBroker Ms. Sparrow thetasfiasco​

 

[ShadowBroker]

I N I R W A R D E N


Nodded towards Robert as he gestured to every route. Knowing the siege would take the worse of them, "We can not abandon The Keep - we would survive with a heavy cost." he responded as he suggested his plan, "We need soldiers at every entrance. Keeping the demons in narrow phases, not allowing them to surround us. Crossbows at each inch of windows, gates. Flip the tables, anything that works as cover to convert the hall into our last stand if need be." he then gestured towards Azaela, "But maybe we should ensure that some make it out." attempting not to call her attention with his whispers on Robert's ear.

"I do not know this keep as much as any mercenary. You will have to help me with this, Lord Robert." he responded as he remembered a long time ago, the siege of the Bear's castle, "Long time ago, Vorch soldiers stood in the great hall. They endure the largest siege of the era, they made the soldiers from Erisdar withdraw no matter how many women and men they sent. For each Vorch soldier that died, not ten but a hundred died of Erisdar dragons died with them." suggesting that the last stand should be in the hall, creating barricades at every inch with every crossbow at their disposal. The recruits and the mercenaries would stand upon the windows and the routes through the hall, and resisting at each door around them. "If we lose the Keep, we lose every single sign of hope. No one will ever dare to question the Demon Lords. What then? Who would stand beside us? How can we proclaim ourselves Lords if we can't hold our own castles?" he shook his head as he watched out to the outside, and then back towards Robert, "We must take all non-essential force out of the way. Women, children and a garrison of soldiers out of the Castle. There must be tunnels of some sort. They must make it out alive. While everyone that is capable to wield a sword should stay."

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Azalea Dilaurentis
​

Azalea gaped as everything unfolded, everything turned to white hot rage as Arkady stormed off, and Inir ordered him to be changed. She stood, dumbfounded for a moment, processing everything and allowing her temper to boil out of control. She whipped around, her eyes burned with a searing rage even a couple guards stepped back. Everything pulsed. Her eyes angry enough to burn holes into Robert and Inir, watching Inir whisper to Robert.

"Have you all run mad?!" Azalea yelled angrily. "We don't have time to look at right and wrong here! How can we fight a war when we can't even trust each other?!" Azalea snapped, taking a couple angry strides forward towards Inir. "Arkady had the chance to leave today and he didn't." She jabbed a finger into Inir's chest. "You're little stunt with trying to kill Arkady today distracted us all and nearly got us killed."

She stepped back from Inir and turned on Robert. "And you," Azalea seethed. "Why right do you have? What right makes you able to judge a man?" By now, many soldiers had stopped to hear Azalea's rant. She turned her back to Inir and Robert, her eyes flicking to each man around the room. "Arkady made a grave mistake. And he will pay for that I promise you. But can any of you say you have not made a mistake? That you have not, in a desperate time, done something terrible?" Her tone was strong, and with only a hint of anger. Azalea was rewarded with uneasy soldiers, glancing around at each other, guilty, or ashamed. Some shook there heads, refusing to acknowledge anything.

With that, Azalea quickly strided out of the room in quick, angry strides, going after Arkady and the guards that followed.

Outside, the Shades retreated, vastly outnumbered. But anyone could tell that they'd be back. And prove to be much more dangerous.

thetasfiasco ShadowBroker H HeckingHeck

 

[thetasfiasco]

Arkady Arsenyev
H HeckingHeck Ms. Sparrow ShadowBroker

Arkady pushed past the guards that tried to cut him off, and threatened and pushed the ones that grabbed onto him from behind. He didn't like being touched. He'd rather he found himself back in that damnable cell than have their grubby hands all over him. He'd come back when he wanted to. Robert and Inir would come to their senses... He huffed and kept walking. Who the hell did they think they were, anyways? Some heroic knight, brandishing his sword to save the day, and what? Robert was like some kid playing dress-up. A little girl playing pretty-princess.

Arkady heard Azalea going off on Robert and Inir back down the hall. That brought a smile to his face. At least she hasn't turned against me.. His smile and optimistic thoughts soon faded as one of the guards got fed up and really grabbed him, by the wrist. Arkady stopped walking and turned around, letting the guards surround him. Before the rest of them could grab on, however, Arkady reeled back a fist and delivered a nasty blow to the man's nose, making him release his wrist. The man stumbled back, holding his bloodied, and likely broken nose. Arkady would've laughed if his fist weren't bruised to hell... And he'd wished he'd used his other arm, too... His shoulder still hurt from landing on Inir's chestplate earlier.

When the man fell, Arkady saw Azalea coming up behind him. The guards started grabbing at him, one taking each arm and the other going to check on the man who Arkady had punched. Despite the situation, Arkady smiled. "I'd wave if I could." He joked, though his smile faded a little when he noticed how angry she looked.. I'd assume I'm about to get what Inir and Robert got, huh? He sighed, and waited for her to approach him.