A Fallen Kingdoms Profecey

[Eternal_Blade]

There was once a kingdom that ruled half of the continent of Rugnica with a fair hand, this kingdom was known as sembia. The other half of the continent was a riddle of much smaller kingdoms, and city states. That was until Galtea; a dark empire which waged war until all of the smaller nations were under the emperors control, and then they went to war with Sembia. The Emperor did not live to see the finish of the war, but his son whom was half undergod was all to happy to take his place, and soon the capitol of Sembia was taken, but the princess made it out along with a small group of body guards. Later the princess would find that this was all part of an ancient profecey from the time that the over gods, and under gods were one pantheon. The profecey also spoke of a young man whom would be born on the grave of the goddess who's name Can't be found, and he will lead the holy nation of Sembia to victory over The dark empire.

(OOC This role play has been closed for Serena Alcazar and myself, sorry for the inconvenience.)

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Name: Lucas Storm
Race: Human, blessed by a dead goddess
Age: 18

Description: Lucas is not a tall young man standing at 5'9 with a lean and muscular build. His hair is silver with an odd blue tint, and his eyes are a deep azure, while his skin is pale from living under the shade of a forest.

Story: Lucas was born thirty miles north of a village in darkwood forest called Felcar, it was once in the nation of Sembia but as all thing are now it is ruled by the iron fist of Galtea. Lucas grew up with his father raising him like a soldier, due to his fathers grief after Lucas's mother died in child birth. His father was once a top military commander of Sembia, andf taught Lucas all he knew of military tactics, and how to wage war. When Lucas was about 15 his father died, and after that Lucas spent another year training until the soldiers from the Galtean garrison came seeking women to please them selves with. He stood in their way, and killed many that first bloody day. Two more groups of soldiers came to the village, but they two either ran or died against the young man who was trained so well. By the time Lucas was 17 he had a bounty on his head, and an incredible swordsman came to collect on it. Lucas fought in the forest for many hour till finally he and the bounty hunter had no choice but to retreat. When Lucas got back to the village it had been burned to the ground, and it looked as if every body in town was dead. He searched the ruins of the once beautiful city, but found no one alive, even the women and children had been killed mercilessly. Lucas then with nothing left in his life worth living for vowed to put a stop to Galtea, having no idea that he had just fulfilled one part of the profecey. He has now traveled for one year, and has fought them at every step while avoiding capture from the many skilled and deadly bounty hunter that chase after him for the reward on his head.

Skills: Stealth, senses, tracking, acrobatics, athletics, wilderness survival, knowledge of military tactics, knowledge of nature, knowledge of geography, martial arts, and swordsmanship.

Abilities: Lucas has superhuman strength, speed, and agility. He is tougher than most any human, and has a high pain threshold.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Name: Ava Lioir
Age: 21
Appearance: http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii89/CowGoil08/Anime/anime-girl-2.jpg

Story: A young girl was startled awake by her mother and her body guard as screams began to fill the air. She hardly had any time to protest as the body guard scooped her into his arms and wrapped a blanket around her tiny form. Her eyes fell upon her mother, as tears cascaded down her cheeks, even her mother had tears in her eyes as she slipped a small pendant around her daughters neck before ushering the guard to leave. The girl cried out reaching for her mother, but she merely stood in the doorway watching with tear filled eyes as her daughter was carried off. The last thing the young girl remembers was something hitting into her mothers chest as they rounded the corner of the corridor.

The guard ran faster as screams and the sound of steel against steel filled the air. Soon they were joined by several more guards, as they came to what seemed to be a dead end. The guard holding her shifted her in his arms, so that he could hold up his other hand. “In the name of the goddess, I bid thee open.” his voice sounded distant as her vision began to fade to black. The last thing she remembered was the shifting of the walls before them as she passed out in the guards arms.

Three days later she awoke feeling as though it were naught but a dream. However, her fantasy of it being just a nightmare was quickly squashed when her mothers head guard Drakon entered the room and sat at the foot of her bed. “Your highness, I’m sorry but your mother and father…they’re gone, and you are being hunted even as we speak.” The girl only six years old sat there crying, gaining no comfort from the man who’d saved her.

Over the years, she gained the full knowledge of what had happened to her parents, and why she had lost her kingdom. She began to grow a hate for those who’d destroyed her life, and who were ruining the lives of those in a kingdom that was rightfully hers. She began to train in the magical arts, night and day she’d study the elements, and various other arts. One day Drakon, came to her and told her of a prophecy and since that day she has set out to fulfill it to the best of her abilities, not only for her honor but also to release the people from the emperor’s malicious reign.

Skills/Abilities - Ava is quite skilled in telepathy, and healing. As well as the manipulation of the elements. She is able to read ancient text and speak it as well. She’s always has had a fair hand in sword fighting, but has no real taste for it. She is very agile, flexible and coordinated foot wise. She has an average stealth range, but tends to be too impatient to remain hidden for very long. She carries with her two daggers, both of which are laden with a curse. If one should be even scratched with the blades they will be unable to move whatever limb was struck however, this does require some careful planning on her part at times for she isn’t as skilled with close rang fighting.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas moved forward the man at the gate eying him suspiciously for Lucas carried a slender curved sword at each hip, and was wearing the black leathers of a warrior which tended to make Galteaen guards weary especially with the rumors of a lone man bringing death to Galtean soldiers. Luca kept on moving as the guard questioned his arrival at the fair city of Arvandor. "Hey who goes there boy? Name, and charter, or you will find no entry here." His voice was held dangerous, but Lucas could already tell the man was slightly unnerved by the fact that Lucas hadn't yet even made eye contact. Once Lucas was about to ten feet from him he brought forth his pole arm as if to hold the youth at bay, but Lucas dropped his hand into a pouch at the back of his belt and brought forth a charter handing it out forward with out a word.

The guard almost fell forward into a face dive when he reached over past the pole arm he was holding to grab the charter from Lucas's hand, but he managed to keep his balance even in his metal scale armor. Lucas let the nervous guard take his time with the charter for it was his charter that he had been given by village elder from where he lived. After a long wait of the guard trying to figure out if it was real or not he finally broke the silence with. "Boy this is a fake, Now i want you to get out of here before I call forth the others." Lucas scoffed at the idiot who really couldn't tell a real one from a fake he guessed.

Lucas was till smiling at the guard with a very amused look when the guard grabbed the whistle and blew letting the others know he needed help. Wonderful, now I'm not only short on supplies, and money, but now I'm going to have to kill a bunch of guards before they even have time to find out that I'm wanted. The thought was full of negative thinking for while he could live indefinitely in the wilds but he didn't really want to. Lucas began stepping back from the guard who had blown the whistle trying to make him feel more comfortable, and in control of the situation. The other guards arrived about the time Lucas had stopped backing up, and one of them began asking the idiot what was going on. The dumb guard handed them the charter calling it a fake, but the man whom was wearing breast plate took one look at it, and a shadow of worry crossed his features.

Lucas knew then and there that the guard in breastplate must have noticed him from one of the many wanted posters, and was thinking on how best to deal with the situation. Lucas wasn't inclined to find out that answer, and so the blades at his hips were in his hands in but the flash of an eye, and he was moving with almost unthinkable speed towards them. The stupid one would dies first Lucas decided, and as he got close the guards had barley had time to react except for the one on breast plate which had brought forth his pole arm in a defensive posture, but to his surprise Lucas went just to the left him to the one who had caused this mess. His left blade came right up under the guards helmet to cut his throat cleanly, while the blood was still splattering down his scale mail Lucas's right blade came up just in time to parry the heavy pole arm that the guard in breast plate whom Lucas guessed was the guard captain.

Lucas pivoted to his left where some of the other guards were, and brought his right blade which was fresh from the slightly difficult parry to cut another at the wrist at the vein there which would lead to massive blood loss if the man didn't try to stop the flow of blood which would put him out of the fight, and he brought the left blade in an arcing swing at chest height to warn off the other whom were coming forth to. Soon though the captain was giving them order, and that was what he had hoped for, Lucas knew the strategy the man was going for; had been taught it by his father , and he also knew how to beat that very strategy. The four soldiers that were left went into a line position while their knees bent as to not let them selves get rushed over, and to allow the guard captian who was right behind them to use his long pole arm to maximum effect.

The four at the front began making short stabs with their weapons which he back away from easily, but the horizontal slashes coming from the captain were a bit more trouble for he had the reach. Lucas went into a spin bringing both scimitars to bear parrying off multiple attacks while scoring several minor cuts upon the guards, a move which the guard captain had never before seen. It didn't take long with fast move before the four in front of the captain were dead, and Lucas was squared off against the captain once m ore only thins time the two were alone. The captain seemed to weight his options, and after sizing this boy up he decided that running was the better option. Lucas followed the mans flight into the city gates only his pace was more like a calm walk. He did have supply's to get after all, and he needed to talk with some one any one six months on the road had gotten to him.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava sighed, feeling rather bored as Drakon and Jayden followed a few steps behind. Her blond hair fell over her eyes as she walked past a few of the guards, who eyed her hungrily. As far as most of them knew she was some noble girl who’d come to live out in the middle of nowhere. It was then she felt somewhat glad for her bodyguards being only a few feet away. An elderly woman who was a good six inches shorter than Ava reached up and tugged lightly upon her dress her eyes glowing slightly. “Are you her?” she asked, her blue eyes faded showing that she was almost blind. Ava smiled softly and leaned down to the womans level resting her hand gently upon her shoulder. She waited a moment before answering in a soft tone, “Who do you mean, who is it you seek?”

The woman bit her lip nervously as though she dare not speak what she meant. Ava leaned closer to the woman, so that her nose nearly touched hers, “Are you a seer?” she asked her tone even softer than before, the woman’s eyes may look clouded, but something told Ava that there was more to this lady than it seemed. The woman smiled a near toothless grin and nodded to Ava and handed her a small parcel. Without looking at it Ava slipped it into her satchel and placed a few pieces of gold into the woman’s hand. She was definitely a seer, and whatever she’d given her could be opened at home, not here on the street. However it did not stop her curiosity as she walked off down the crowded street, and her mind wandered slightly making her slightly unaware of the danger around her.

Ava started to walk off once again, but just as she came close to an alley way she felt someone grab her upper arm and pull her towards it. Her automatic response was to reach around towards the mans face, where she dug her nails into it and pulled down, her long nails digging hard and deep into his skin. As another set of hands grabbed at her waist she realized there were two and that her bodyguards had fallen behind. Bringing her foot up she crushed her foot into the mans foot but heard a soft thud as her shoe connected with metal. “Damn you!” she heard one guard say before raising his hand as though to strike her. However Ava was prepared, while one was still holding her by the waist they had left her hands completely free.

Ava brought her hand up and twisted her fingers in quick intricate circles as she summoned a bit of dark energy. A small shadow formed around her and she seemingly faded from the mans arms. Her eyes glowed slightly as she intruded his mind, placing various images within it while the other was completely dumbfounded. Taking her shot she slipped away from the man and drew forth her daggers. “This will teach you bastards to touch me.” She said under her breath. The men gave a startled yelp as she stabbed her daggers into their groins and twisted the blades. “No worries, your wives will find someone else to satisfy their needs.” She said in a soft growl before slicing their throats leaving them to bleed to death in the alley way. Wiping their blood away from her dagger with a small kerchief she sighed and left it next to their bodies before making her way from the alley.

Crossing her arms she glared slightly at her bodyguards, feeling rather peeved more at herself than them as Drakon gave her a worried look. “We’ll have to leave by midnight…”She said her tone slightly annoyed as she merely tilted her head towards the bodies and walked on, stopping only at the sound of the guards whistle. Her lavender eyes lit up slightly as she made her way quickly towards the city gate. She could hear Drakon shouting at her to wait for him but she paid him not attention, after all he wasn’t so concerned earlier when she’d been grabbed. She felt a small pang of guilt however but quickly shrugged it off as her eyes fell upon the bloody mess before her. She kicked rather hard at one of the bodies of the guards and sighed, “Looks like we missed it.” She said hearing Drakon behind her.

“My lady we really should…” Jayden’s words were cut off by a quick glare from Drakon, “I think that you should head back to the inn and pack our things.” he said quickly looking towards Ava, “We’re going to see who is responsible for this.” Jayden looked slightly taken aback at Drakon’s harsh words but gave a small shrug before turning towards the inn. He shook his head and sighed his eyes filled with a bit of anger and curiosity. “What in the hell is going on?” he said softly, he’d never cared much for formalities, other than Ava’s title. In truth he had all of Ava’s trust but sometimes she frustrated him so much. Ava shrugged, “Looks like we have a newcomer…” she said quietly her eyes falling on one of the corpses. “Something tells me he’s not so bad.” she said jokingly as she walked unknowingly in the same direction of Lucas.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas was moving along the stone road of the towns main street he was searching for a tent that a merchant on the road had recommended to him for quality goods at an affordable price. Lucas then seen the red and blue tent that was quite large for a temporary establishment that sold goods in multiple citys around all of the ruqnican continent. He walked into the spacious tent and seen a seedy looking man sitting on a a group of pillows while stroking a nude young woman who seemed to be content where she was. The man then spoke in an odd accent which sounded to Lucas as if was from across the sea. "How may I help you traveler?" As the seedy man spoke her stroked his hand along the woman's frame from her upper side down to her hip which he gave a nice squeeze which made the woman moan softly as she withered in his lap. Lucas was sure it was partly act, but none the less the effect was evident for it had put Lucas on the ropes for a long couple of seconds.

Finally Lucas spoke in calm tones. "I heard you have very good merchandise for a fair price; I'm looking for a few things i need for my travels." Once her spoke her moved forward having caught his balance from the seedy man who seemed to be very good at putting his customers off their guard. the man seemed to think for several seconds before finally saying with another caress of the young woman's body. "Let's see what we can for you then." With that he had another woman who had been in the corner start taking notes on what Lucas needed. It wasn't teen minutes later and Lucas left the tent with out seeming to have received any goods but he had indeed made a full purchase, and was already for the road again. He had stored the items in a magical storage pack that rested on the back of his belt in the form of a slightly large pouch.

He was about to head for an inn when he seen a slight glimmer from the mid day sun reflect off of a metallic pendant that hung around a beautiful young woman's neck who must have a some sort of noble or something from the cloths she was dressed into the way she walked. He watched her while examining the pendant she wore and recognized the symbol for what it was; the Sembain royal crest which his father had shown him the design when he was a young boy talking as if the old kingdom was a place of honor and peace. His father had wanted to join the battles when the way between Sembia and Galtea had first broke out, but he had Lucas to take care of. That was one of the few conversations he had with his father that really seemed like he was talking to his father and not just his commanding officer. It was a memory that made him weak at the knees, but he began striding toward the group which he eyed the man with caution for the man was towering easily six inches taller than Lucas, and with a muscular physique to match. {i]He must be her body guard.[/i] His thought came despite for some reason not thinking she really needed one.

As he approached the big mans hand went to the hilt of a sword while Lucas's hands rested easily on the hilts of his scimitars in case the man became jumpy and he needed to defend him self. "Well what a beautiful woman to find in a back woods town like Arvandor. What Might I ask is milady doing in such a place?" His words were spoken win the tone of the court which his father had drilled into his head for the better course of his thirteenth year of life, and as his voice was melodic almost musical he dipped into a low bow though his hands never left his scimitars, and his eyes never left the couple. He rose from the low bow quickly however as he didn't want to make to much of a scene, with his face posted in every tavern in town on wanted posters that marked a very high reward dead or alive. He smiled politely at the two as he kept his distance as much to keep the big man from getting anxious as to keep him self some running room.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava sighed thinking that she may not find whoever had killed the guards and looked towards Drakon. “Well thanks for slowing me down.” She said with a smile upon her face. In truth she didn’t really need to find someone who could cause her trouble but something told her she needed to find whoever it was. She felt a small breeze sweep across her face and let out one last sigh, “Perhaps we should go home.” However just as she started to turn away she noticed the air around Drakon tense and his hand go towards his blade. Raising a curious eyebrow she glanced around, following his eyes towards a rather handsome looking man. He looked only slightly younger than herself, but something told her that he’d seen a lot in his life. He by no means seemed at first like he’d be a match for Drakon, but then again things weren’t always what they seemed.

She watched as the younger man’s hands went to his scimitars and couldn’t help but smile. Bringing her hand up to brush away her hair from her eyes she watched as he bowed slightly before her, and returned it with one of her own. She lowered her eyes just a bit, knowing that most the women of court usually did such when in the presence of men. Something she found to be rather annoying personally, but she had to keep up the appearance that she was nothing but a noblewoman. At his words she couldn’t help but smile and secretly agree. Not many nobles would bother coming to this backwoods town thus it wasn’t a very good cover however Drakon wanted to lay low for a while after their last encounter with the soldiers.

Ava looked to Drakon before answering the mans question, “I’m merely resting here on my journey north.” she noticed the mans gaze occasionally moved from her eyes downwards towards her chest, however she felt he was not merely one of the pervs who was only looking at her chest. She followed his gaze and raised a curious eyebrow, “I see you’ve noticed my pendant.” She moved a few steps closer the smile never leaving her lips as she did such. He seemed to recognize it which peaked her curiosity more. She made sure to stop so that she was atleast just out of arms reach of him and lowered her voice. “You know what this is don’t you?”

Drakon stepped up closer to Ava even though she’d purposely moved away from him, and she rested her hand on his, signaling that he should keep his blade sheathed. This man had definitely sparked her curiosity. She never let her gaze leave his as she wondered if they should get off the streets. They really didn’t need the attention drawn to them, well she didn’t, she knew that for sure. But something told her he wanted very little attention drawn to himself as well. Like a jolt of electricity she recognized him and turned her head over to the wall closest to her. Her eyes fell upon a wanted poster and she bit her lip before looking around them.

“Shrouded in light bring forth the shade, shield us from those who wish us ill.” She spoke in a soft, quick tone not caring that it was a ridiculously simple spell. Quickly a shadow like cloud enveloped them, taking them from view of those around them. None would see this cloud, but only feel a bit dizzy when approaching it. She smiled softly and shrugged, “Well since I know who you are, perhaps its fair that I tell you who I am. But perhaps if we did it at my “aunts” place it would be better. We’re safe now, but a noble woman just vanishing into thin air would seem somewhat odd don’t you think?” She knew that tonight was the night they would have to leave, especially if he’s the one that she’d been having the visions about.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas kept the smile on his lips as she answered his question, though he seen the lie for what it was, the only nobles north were long dead, but then again she was wearing the royal crest of a dead family that had ruled all of the northern continent. He was about to speak a lie when she moved forward and asked a question of her own about the pendant which he had noticed from his days as a boy. "Yes I recognize it, but I can hardly believe it. If what I was told is correct only blood could wear that artifact." He said in but a whisper that could be heard by only them, while keeping an eye on the suspicious body guard. He then noticed that her glance had fallen behind him to a wall, and following her gaze he noted the poster. Then to his surprise he heard her cast a spell something he hadn't seen a lot of, but enough to know that spell casters were dangerous.

He then noted that everything seemed to be obscured slightly as if a dark mist had just washed over their forms to hide them from prying eyes. "Ah yes my unfortunate position, well then I will follow you, and your retainer." He said with out pause, and his polite tone never left as he thought on who she might have been. Unless it's fake then she's from the old Sembian royal family, but they were all killed years ago. These thoughts raced as he tried to sort out his mind, though not all of his glances to her pendant had been made with the soul purpose of looking at the pendant many had taken in full view of the cleavage she displayed proudly. He tried not to stare over long for it was in polite, but he had been in the wilds for almost six months and found it slightly hard. At least I have the excuse that I'm looking at her pendant. He thought frustratedly.

As the two began moving he followed in tow keeping a careful and respectful distance from the young lady who had yet to introduce her self, but had promised to do so. As they walked he kept up the pace, trying once again not to let his gaze wonder her form which was no easy task for her outfit was rather revealing especially for Sembian taste or what his father had told him of Sembian taste. He managed to keep his eyes to a more polite level and tried to engage in polite conversation. "So your headed north you say; I think i had heard something about their being no nobles left up north, but then again hear say is a dangerous thing to go by." His words were once again spoken politely as he followed their steps always keeping an eye on her body guard though he was beginning to think that she was possibly more dangerous than the big man was.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava couldn't help but smile as he admitted his recognition of her pendant, and felt his gaze was not just upon it, but ignored that thought as she glanced at Drakon as she began to walk towards the small home she'd been staying in for a few days. As far as the person living in it knew she was her niece, or at least that is what she told her after temporarily rearranging her memories. She would restore them of course after she left, but it did help for when the neighbors became curious as to who the young noble woman was that was staying with her. She also became quite popular with her neighbors as well.

She could hear disbelief in his tone as he spoke of the nobles to the north all being dead. In truth they all were after all her family had been killed when she was only four or so years of age. A look of bitterness and hurt crossed her features momentarily as her thoughts drifted to her mother’s look of pain as her daughter was taken away from her, and the look of pain that crossed her eyes when the arrow pierced her heart. Whoever had struck her mother, would face Ava, and she would destroy them, and their families if it was the last thing she did. She sighed and stopped in front of a tiny house, looking back at the man, “Well as far as most know they are…” she shrugged and walked inside, motioning for him to follow her.

Jayden looked up as Ava walked through the door, a few small bags resting at her feet as she leaned against the wall. “We’re ready to move high…”she stopped abruptly and drew her blade as her eyes fell upon the unknown man. Ava merely raised her hand and motioned for Jayden to put away her blade, “As you have no doubt noticed we’ve picked up a stray.” She said jokingly turning to Lucas and motioning for him to have a seat at a small table. Her finger traced lightly over her pendant as she took her place at the table and leaned forward a bit looking him squarely in the eyes. “So you know that only blood can wear this pendant do you? Do you know who’s blood?” She said softly figuring he did, but she had to make sure, after all many myths surrounded this very pendant, she just wanted to make sure he had his facts straight. After all, not many would be able to recognize the symbol or be alive after Drakon heard them speak of recognizing.

She turned her gaze toward her body guard and motioned for him to close the door after Jayden stepped out, to keep an eye on the outside, casting a suspicious glance at their guest. “I suppose I should tell you my name since I already know yours…” she trailed off and glanced at Drakon noting the disapproving glare he gave her. He hated that she was about to tell a stranger her most precious secret. “I am called by most Lady Lorelei Kilsbane, but few knew, and know me as Ava Lioir.” She said in a calm almost soothing tone. She watched his face for any reaction, any sign that he knew the name.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas followed her, and couldn't see the look that crossed her face as he had mentioned the nobles of the north not being alive, but could hear the slight distance as she hinted at their still being some that lived if albeit secretly. As she approached the house he noted how much it seemed in need of repair, but then again all the houses in the area looked that way. He followed the two inside, and his hand once again went to one of the blades at his hips when he seen a woman drawing a weapon. He was sure he could have crossed the distance before the woman could draw the weapon, but found that keeping calm was far more beneficial at the moment, as the noble motioned for the young woman to sheath her weapon, and then talked about him as if he were a dog. He could see her motioning for him to take a seat at the table which he did in his usual fashion of sitting down hard while throwing his feet on the table his boots making a loud thud as the landed hard on the surface. He watched the big guy give him a suspicious glance though the man just as Lucas had done sized him up and didn't seem to want to fight him if it could be avoided.

He heard her question him weather he knew the correct blood line that was needed to wear the pendant, and he nodded in response to the question not wanting to say in such hostel territory that it was the crest of the Sembian royal family. He was watching the two carefully and hating the fact that sizing up mages was so much more difficult than sizing up warriors. He could gauge that she was not at all defenseless, but he couldn't gauge how far that went. He nodded when she began speaking that she should introduce her self thinking that it would have been appropriate, but not necessary. Lucas however was very curious as to how she was wearing a royal pendant, that is until she told him her true identity as he had completely ignored the first fake one, seeing it as a lie though not knowing exactly why.

Lucas nearly fell out of his chair as it had been rocking on only two legs and had to abandon the chir so he didn't disgracefully on his rump. As he caught him self nimbly on his feat he found the man had his hand on a dagger thinking that it could be a trap though he relaxed when there were no more sudden moves from Lucas. Lucas blinked twice as he examined the woman's face rying to find if she was lying though really didn't think she was. His father had always told him that at least some of the royal family should have made it out alive, but the word was spread that none had lived and that it had been a complete victory. He stood there a few more seconds with the words hanging in the air before finally saying in what would have been a frantic blur of non sense if he hadn't taken the time to calm him self. "Milady? Are you saying that you are the Princess of Sembia?" his tone was questioning, though not disbelieving. he looked at her for a few more moments his eyes finally coming completely to hers, and no longer watching the body guard.

He didn't bother lifting the chair before his mind began to to wonder through the myriad of thoughts; as to if she was really the princess of Sembia, though that was very actuate name, and many had a great deal of trouble just pronouncing it with fluency. "Never mind of course you are; no one would want the Galtean government after them the way they would be after you, or me for that matter." Lucas's words were spoken shortly after the first, due to his mind racing and not giving him enough time to process everything. After a few more seconds he finnaly broke the silence that had followed his statement. "My apologizes for not introducing my self whether you have read my name on a Galtean wanted poster or not. My name is Lucas storm, son of General Lionel Storm, and Priestess Lina Storm formerly of the Sembian government." His tone held formalities, and so did his posture just as his father had taught him when addressing some one worth his respect, though Lucas often took worth his respect a bit far for his fathers taste.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

“Who knew a name could hold such power.” she said a bit playfully, enjoying the look of shock upon his face. It’d been forever since she’d been able to tell anyone and she enjoyed the shock on peoples faces, especially the captain they’d killed a year before, the very man who’d nearly killed her twice before. At his question she only nodded, as he came to his own conclusion that she was indeed the princess. “Doesn’t take much to convince him does it?” she thought to herself knowing that he probably had his reasons for believe her. She gave him another nod remaining silent at his mention of the government.

Drakon’s movement at his mention of his name caught her completely off guard and she turned her head to face him, raising a questioning eyebrow at him. This time it was her turn to be shocked as the older man knelt to one knee before Lucas, in all the years he’d been protecting her he’d only bowed to one other person besides her and it was an old friend they’d ran into many years ago. She stood and placed a hand on the man’s shoulder, “What’s going on?” she asked quietly moving her eyes from her bodyguard as he stood up over to lucas curiosity filling her eyes. Drakon rose to his feet and smiled softly at Lucas, a small look of sadness filling his eyes.

“Drakon…are you..” her words were caught off as the man began to speak, “This is the son of a great General, one who was very much loyal to your father, I knew he had a son but I’d not seen him since he was a babe.” His voice trailed off and she dropped her hand from Drakon’s arm and bowed slightly in respect for a moment, “Well then, that explains why I feel like I can trust you.” She let her eyes wander over his form, he seemed strong and no doubt he was. Brining her hand up to push back her bangs once more she smiled and crossed her arms. “And since you have Drakon’s trust I truly can ask you this question without worry…” She looked back to Drakon and when he nodded at her his eyes filled with that strange softness she asked Lucas, “Do you know of the prophecy?” she waited in silence for his answer, feeling the tension leave the air around them.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas watched the look of a cocky noble girl for a second, and then at the mention of his name and family it was gone as her aging body guard came forth kneeling in front of Lucas, though this caught him off guard, he managed not to jump at the movement. This is kinda tense He thought as the man kneeling before him was easily twice his age, if not older. The princess looked in a slight stage of shock, and trepidation for this seemed to her as out of the ordinary. He watched as the man rose with a look of sorrow mixed with respect, and then Lucas got it before the man spoke. He knew my father, and must have had a great deal of respect for him The thought nagged at Lucas for his father had been more of a military general than a father figure, and Lucas had been raised as a soldier in training. Lucas relaxed not liking standing at attention any longer than he had to, and heard the two talking about his father.

Lucas while their conversation was going on reached down, and picked the chair back up. He realized as soon as she had introduced her self that she was in all probability worth his respect, but he did hate giving it with out; it being earned first. Once the chair was back on it's legs he sat down in it, his mouth suddenly dry from his long nights travel, and today battle along with the haggling with the seedy merchant that had been helpful, but a big pain as well. Lucas was in his own thoughts for second about his father, and the road he was currently traveling when she interrupted his reverie telling him she would be able to trust him. Then shortly after that as he met her gaze with his she asked him a question which brought forth a quizzical look upon his handsome features.

He sat their a moment trying to figure out what she meant by prophecy, he thought back on everything his father had ever taught him, and couldn't for the life of him remember anything about a prophecy. Lucas finally shook his head while saying in a slightly distant tone as if still tying to recall something that just simply wasn't there. "No. I don't recall ever hearing anything about a prophecy." He sat there a moment longer trying to sift through his own memories, but in the end he couldn't recall anything that had to do with a prophecy. "I'm sorry I can't be of any more help, but my father did tell me of a woman who lives in Witch haunt forest who would most likely know. She's not a seer or anything; but she does have a fair hand with divination magic: or so my father always said." His voice was soft as he hadn't been able to give any more info than that in a time when she most likely needed some.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava nodded at his words, they had already been to see the woman in Witch Haunt Woods the year following Drakon telling her what he knew of the prophecy. She’d told them one part of the prophecy that Drakon had not been familiar with, the one part that had been missing from the letter Ava’s mother had written before her death. Ava watched as Drakon turned and walked towards the door, “I’ll returned in but a moment I need to speak with Jayden about our traveling for tonight…” he trailed off and left the room leaving Ava to speak with Lucas alone.

Ava smiled at Lucas and walked over to a small beautiful cabinet and extracted two glasses and a bottle of red liquid. “I don’t know about you but I am rather thirsty.” She set the glasses on the table and filled them half way before setting the bottle down closer to Lucas. In truth an image of wine crossed her vision for a short second, which most would just think they were day dreaming, but for her she knew that one of Lucas’ thoughts had crossed her mind. She didn’t know whether or not she should tell him that she could read minds but something told her he’d probably appreciate it.

“In truth we’ve been to see her, and found out another part of the prophecy that we didn’t know…” She sat down and leaned forward resting her chin on the back of her hands as she looked into his eyes. She paused for a moment and brought her glass to her lips taking a small sip before setting the glass back down. “It tells of the downfall of Sembia and of the last of the royal family escaping with their life thanks to a great protector. This person would grow thirsting for a revenge against those who killed her family and enslaved her people. It told of how she would raise up against the emperor but she would not do it alone. She would find that her protectors would fall one by one until the last one standing would either leave her to fight the battle that has always been hers, or stay with her sacrificing his life to save hers.” She waited a moment letting that sink in bringing her hands to rest in her lap as she smiled softly at him.

“The prophecy also states, that a man born on the grave of an unknown goddess would join her in her quest to defeat this emperor. His quest would be to seek revenge for the deaths of those he tried so hard to protect. Its not clear whether or not they succeed but one thing is certain, I’ll be sure that I don’t go down without a fight. I will give my people hope again.” Her smile had faded and a serious expression crossed her features. Her eyes dimmed slightly as she looked him in the eyes. “I just need to keep my very existence a myth until the time is right. Until I find this other the prophecy speaks of.” She leaned back and sighed softly glancing down at her glass. Part of her wondered if perhaps he was the one the prophecy spoke of, but she highly doubted that. Had he been born upon the grave of an unnamed goddess Drakon would have known….but she couldn’t be sure he’d have told her…she waited while he took in all she had said, wondering what questions her spiel had brought to mind.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas listened to her rant, and wondered slightly if she ranted to anyone who would listen, but he understood her position. His eyes stayed on her's while she walked to the liquor cabinet to retrieve refreshments, and was glad when she returned with two glasses and not just one, some didn't think him old enough to have wine, but in most countries he was old enough at least. His hand moved in a subtle motion taking the glass gentle to his lips with one fluid motion which almost bordered on an unnatural grace, he drained half the glass before setting it back down, his mind spinning from it's contents for a second as he grew use to the buzz that the red liquid gave. He continued listening to her, not wanting to disrupt her, and possibly miss something important, and now that his mouth was no longer dry it became far easier.

When she finally finished Lucas had a perplexed look on his face as if trying to remember something that he couldn't quite recall, then shook his head as if the memory was not coming to mind. "Well it sound like your very determined in your cause, and the prophecy makes it sound like you have a fighting chance of victory." Lucas's statement was one of slight indifference, but he continued to gaze into her stunning lavender orbs, while thinking on his next phrase of speech for he hadn't been given the focus on diplomatic speech she had, and what he did know was from his father who taught him court service, and not true diplomacy.

Lucas had gotten slightly lost in her eyes when he noted that a moment or two had passed, and spoke suddenly. "Well it's obvious have I have no love for the Galtean Empire, so your secrets safe with me... But what will you do if and when you finally take down the empire?" His voice was more sincier this time for he believed she may have become too obsessed with the current struggle, and lost focus while trying so desperately to get revenge. After all Galtea was a mighty enemy, and it was easy to lose sight of purpose in the face of such an overwhelming obstacle, but for Lucas it was far more simple. His purpose was revenge, and iof that was her only purpose then she was hiding behind a focus to bring her people freedom, and happiness.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava noticed a strange look cross the man’s features as she spoke but couldn’t quite place it, it seemed as though he were trying to remember something but she couldn’t be sure. She didn’t know for sure whether or not she’d have any chance in fulfilling the prophecy if she couldn’t find the other it involved and in truth she wasn’t sure she ever would. She’d been searching for around five years now and still had not found any other clue to his whereabouts. She jumped slightly as he spoke, having gotten used to the silence. His question caught her off guard slightly and she let out a sigh breaking her gaze from his to stare at her glass. For a moment she sat there swirling the liquid around in her glass thinking on his words.

“I plan on reuniting my people, bringing them together once again into a time of peace, that is if fate allows it…”She didn’t look up from her glass for a few minutes her eyes following the liquid as she continued swirling it around. “From what I have been told my father was a great man, as was my mother. The people lived in a time of great prosperity and peace, I hope to bring some of that back to them. They’ve suffered greatly under the reign of the Empire.” She looked back up to him, determination burning within her lavender eyes. “My revenge is more for my people than for myself.”

She finished off the last bit of her wine and stood up slowly to put away the bottle when she knocked over a small parcel that the seer from earlier had given her. She leaned down and picked it up a look of recognition crossing her features. She looked to Lucas and then to the parcel before sitting down once more and opening it to reveal a small dagger and a letter. “Your quest can finally begin, look forward to what the future brings and learn what lessons you can. The one you seek is closer than you think, open your eyes and you shall see.” Ava blinked and glanced at the dagger, taking it into her hands, admiring it as she did such. She looked up at Lucas absent mindedly her mind running over the womans words. “The one you seek is closer then you think…”

Hearing footsteps at the door she stood and turned her head, usually Jayden and Drakon made very little noise when coming up the steps, quickly she pocketed the letter and held the dagger tight in her hand. She stepped away from the door and said quietly to Lucas, “Those aren’t my bodyguards…” She never took her eyes off the door as her fingers twitched as she prepared to cast a fire spell at whoever came through those doors.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas listened at her proclamation of fighting for her people, though he didn't believe it for some reason; she seemed like she was more out for true revenge than for her people, she had just taken steps that would grant both her people's well being and her revenge albeit it would take years to achieve. Though he didn't tell her any of this mostly due to it was his own interpretation for he could tell she was a good person after all she was taking the long way so her people would no longer suffer. it was at this point that Lucas noted his own indifference if the way he thought of them as her people; not including himself among them. This disturbed him, and it was this thought and not her moving and spilling out the contents pf her satchel that startled him.

Once his start was over he noted her reading a piece of parchment which seemed to have been made of sheep skin. Sheep skin: odd for this area. Lucas thought quizzically for a second before he heard the sound of foot falls, and having already sized up both body guards he knew instantly they weren't the two he had seen earlier. More likely they were a couple of men from the empire who seemed to leave stealth to the assassins, and thieves.

Lucas faded back against the wall his form all but a shadow even in the well lit room from the setting sun that came in through the window casting the dining room in an odd orange glow. He had placed him self in the shadow of the wine cabinet which due to his slightly average stature afforded him full concealment. he waited there his hands on the hilts even as Ava told him that they weren't her body guards she hadn't noted him moving from his chair to the cabinet. That was something for him to remember.

Lucas waited there for what seemed to the young, rash man as an eternity. Dammit! All that training to become more patient, and you still lack it! Get it together Lucas! He mentally scolded himself. The foot falls moved closer and she was in position behind the door they would ambush who ever walked through, and Lucas couldn't help but think that who ever was coming didn't have a chance.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava’s fingers twitched once more as she gathered more energy into the palm of her hand. She noted that Lucas had moved back into the shadow of the liquor cabinet and lifted her palm in front of her stepping a bit more out of the way of the door to make sure that she wouldn’t be hit when it swung open. Whoever was outside was talking in quick hushed tones, “That bitch is going to pay for what she did to the others.” Ava held back a giggle, wondering slightly if they were talking about those guards she’d damn near castrated and killed earlier. “I also heard she was seen with that outlaw, that alone is enough for us to do this.” There were two voices, but she couldn’t be sure that there wasn’t anyone else out there.

Just as she rested her back against the wall the door sprung open and a flame erupted into her hand. She remained still as the men stepped halfway into the room. There were four of them, two who seemed quite a bit taller than Lucas, who remained still hidden in the shadows. “Aren’t very observant are they?” she said to Lucas in his mind before turning her head at the sound of soft familiar footsteps. She let out a long quiet breath as Drakon came up behind one of the men, his eyes glowing dangerously as he placed his hand over the man’s mouth and snapped his neck allowing him to fall with a thud to the ground. Jayden stepped up next to Drakon just as the three remaining men turned around.

Ava stepped forward and gripped the dagger from the parcel in her hand and released the fire ball in her palm sending it straight into the chest of one of the men, and watched as it quickly engulfed him. His screams of pain filled the air and his other friends stood around slightly shocked at what was happening. Drakon cracked his knuckles and Jayden turned and walked calmly outside, and Ava could sense why. About seven or so more men were outside surrounding the house. “Damn!” she said aloud looking towards Lucas. “We’ll take these two you and Jadyen take the others outside, we’ll join you after taking care of these bastards.” her words were rushed as her eyes flashed and she appeared behind the men kicking one in the back of the knees just as Drakon rushed outside his blades drawn.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas watched as the door sprung open, and was not surprised that they couldn't see him even though the cover he had was pathetic he had been trained all of his life in how to hide where none thought he could. He Seen the big guy from earlier break the neck of one of the men, and then that woman who served as Princess Ava'a body guard, and Lucas guessed hand maiden as well came up next to the big guy. It looks like they have this covered. Lucas thought some what impressed as he moved from the shadow well before Ava had told him too, and if he had waited for her to tell him to he most likely wouldn't have done it. He wasn't use to getting bossed around, and she was obviously use to giving orders.

As Lucas moved towards the window that the showed the setting sun his hand reached down grabbing the bottle off the table and throwing it at the window which caused it to bust break out wards. it wasn't perfect but it left him enough room to jump and tuck his body as to not be harmed by the jagged pieces of glass that could have done some serious damage if hadn't been careful. he landed out side noticing a number of men, some of them guards, and others looked to be mercenaries. Oh great they followed her! Not only do they have guards, but mercenaries as well; not good! He mentally cursed his luck as he thought on the best course, Lucas had been taught from an early age that you had to pick you r battles, but to never be a coward.

This was one of those sticky situations that came up ever so rarely for if he was to pick his battle now, he would rather run than fight given the situation, but the princess was still inside, and her body guards were already engaged against the guards which were proving to be little trouble, but Lucas had run into that mercenary group once before, and it's leader was match for the best swordsman of the land. This is why I work alone. Lucas reminded himself for the twentieth time this year, and he began moving forward at the speed of a hunting cat towards the mercenaries to cut them off before they reached the body guards to allow Ava some time to get out of the house. Lucas knew that the group of mercenaries was slightly smaller force however just on skill alone it was going to be as if fighting at least double the number of guards.

Lucas was glad to note that their leader wasn't in the area as he came into striking distance of the first soldier. Lucas had yet to bring out a weapon, and didn't see a need to for the mercenaries were skilled at disarming their opponents, one of the things that made them so deadly, but lucky for Lucas all that training in unarmed combat came in handy every time he ran into these soldiers of fortune. The first one let brought up his blade in a dazzling arc that showed a great deal of practice with feinting however Lucas wasn't falling into the bluff, and made a quick side step while grabbing the mans wrist and twisting even as he continued moving forward. It wouldn't kill the man, but he wouldn't be in the fight as his arm was both dislocated, and broken at the wrist.

Lucas seen the others in his group all look up as the mans scream of anguish sounded through the twilight that was quickly invading the daylight hours. Four of the eight that were left moved forward while the other four continued moving towards the house that was at the end of a street in what seemed like the housing sector where most of the middle class resided. He continued running now cursing his pause to calculate his actions, for they had just cost him at least two kills in this fight. The first two of the four that were advancing attacked in conjunction their swords being brought to bear, one in a quick thrust at chest height, and the other in a powerful slash at Lucas' waist.

The two men who were attacking him long practiced attacks were surprised to find him flipping forward landing behind the two, and before they could collect their momentum to make a counter attack he had already kicked back with his left foot slamming his heel into the one that had attempted the slash at the back of his thigh. The loud crunch that was heard from the mans femur being crushed under the force that Lucas spent, was followed by another as his right hand slammed back his palm flexing as it hammered into the other mans spine.

Both of them fell to the ground, but the time it took him to dispatch these two the other two were already upon him, and seemed to be more careful than the last three that had already fallen to this young warrior in front of them. Lucas back side stepped as not to be pushed against their fellows who were on the ground, but not likely dead, and he prepared for the battle ahead. Dammit! i don't have time for these guys! Lucas thought as the skilled soldiers came forward with practiced ease, sizing up their new foe. Lucas knew he could defeat them, but not int time to help the others if something were to go wrong with their battle.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava gripped the dagger and stabbed it into the spine of the still standing guard just as Lucas threw the bottle through the window and dove out of it, leaving her to deal with the last guard who was now on his feet. Her lavender eyes glowed maliciously as she glanced at the dagger which was still in the spine of the other guard. Taking a step back she raised her hand up in a soft twirling motion and a huge gust of wind burst forth from her palm sending the man flying out the doorway and slamming him into a large beam that held the front porch up. She reached down quickly and pulled forth the dagger from the guards spine and ran towards the door only to meet a large fellow, who was dressed differently than the guards.

She held back a yelp of surprise as the man who was easily a foot and a half taller than she was. Her eyes darkened a bit as she recognized his face from somewhere and stumbled backwards. “Why hello princess its been quite a while hasn’t it.” He stepped forth and slammed the door shut and leaned against it. “Why don’t you tell me of your journey and just what you’ve found out, before I kill you.” He pushed away from the door and Ava shot her hands up in defense but he was much quicker than she was, and he grabbed her wrists with a painful grip before throwing her to the side and putting his foot upon her chest. “Do you really think you are any match for me my dear.”

Ava’s eyes dulled for a moment as she struggled for breath, the pressure he had on her chest causing her breaths to become smaller and smaller. Visions of the night her parents were killed filled her mind and this man’s face flashed in her mind. She took a deep breath and faded from beneath his boot causing his foot to crash through the floorboard from the pressure he’d been exerting. Taking her chance while she could she flew towards the door and flung it open rushing outside stumbling slightly as she gasped for breath. She turned around and brought her hands up and a bolt of bright yellow energy shot forth from her palms and straight at the man, only he faded from the doorway appearing behind her and wrapping his arm around her throat and holding her up off the ground. Drakon looked up just after slicing the belly of one of the mercs and growled and started to lung forward.

However as the man holding Ava brought forth a dagger he froze and a vision of Jayden filled her sight. Drakon lowered his weapon seemingly in submission as the man gave a loud chuckle. “Did you truly think I wouldn’t find her Drakon, you old bastard, I’ve dedicated my life to wiping out the royal family and she’s the last of it.” The man let out another hoarse laugh and Ava brought her leg up and kicked him in the knee and jerked her head back hearing a slight crack as she broke his nose and took the chance in biting down hard on his arm causing him to drop her upon the ground. She barely caught herself and rolled out of the way just as Jayden lunged forward her blade raised high, however just as she came within rang of the man she crumpled to the ground an arrow sticking from her shoulder.

Ava stood up straight and turned on her heels her eyes turning bright red as she grabbed the blade of one of the fallen guards and rushed forward at the archer, running him through with the blade before he even had a chance to draw another arrow. The archer fell to his knees and whispered, “Forgive me…highness…” She turned and felt a strange surge of energy filling her body as her eyes fell upon the limp form of her lifetime friend and protector. Jayden had been her best friend and the only woman she’d had around to share secrets with. Her eyes went up to the man who’d been choking her and she clenched her fist, a strange light blue aura surrounding her seemingly like a shield as the man choked and sputtered upon the blood running from his nose. His eyes fell upon the princess and he staggered back, seeing the blank expression upon her face.

“Wh…what the hell?” he choked as she stopped and brought an open palm up, “fall back men, now!” His eyes flashed and he threw down a smoke cover and ran off his men close behind him. Ava’s eyes still blank and dark fell upon her lifelong friend and she walked towards her kneeling down next to her and brushing her hair back from her eyes. “Please forgive me.” She whispered as her eyes turned back to a pale shade of lavender. Drakon came up behind her his blades still drawn, and Ava looked up resting her eyes upon Lucas, anger and sadness filling her eyes. “I’m sorry…”

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas couldn't watch the fighting going on just down the street, for the two men that were upon him didn't give him much time for that. They both circled him carefully, and he knew if he charged them he would most likely receive at least a minor wound if not a serious injury, and so he waited for their attack. Once they had him flanked they went in to motion the one to his left thrusting at his knee while the other to his right slashed out at his throat, the attack left him with limited mobility for if he tried to duck he would receive the stab at his knees, and if he hopped to avoid the knee wound he would get his throat slit, neither being very promising options, if he had already been moving he could have just leaped over them, but he was still, and they liked it that way. Lucas decided that ity was time to bring his swords to bear, and so in a flash of movement both blades were in his hand having drawn them in an arc from his weapons belt.

His left hand went into a slap towards his knee, a pathetic parry to be sure, but as he did this he brought his right blade in front of him at chest level and thrust his entire body forward into the man who was attempting to slit his throat. His left handed blade slapped against the much stronger thrust which drove his hand down against his hip, but the cost of motion had bought him the time he needed, and he was away from the debilitating attack, and the sound of his scimitar could be heard for a ways slamming into the mans double edged sword. While his scimitar was single edged, and wouldn't cut fir he had it angled for the edge to slam into his blade, and so when it slammed into his chest it didn't wound him, but the mans double edged long sword cut his throat clean open and fell back dropping his sword to try and hold his bodily fluids into his body.

Lucas' feet landed hard onto the man who was griping his own throat which knocked the breath out of him, but the man who had quickly recovered from the parry and over balance was already attacking with a slash, thrust, slash combo at different angles. Lucas didn't have time for this and his right blade played with the mans ferocious attack for a second before side stepping this caught the man off guard and he over balanced once and which left him open for Lucas' left hand to slit the mans artery located at the side of his neck. Lucas didn't pay any attention to the man who's blood was literally squirting from his neck as he ran froward to catch the man who had released the smoke capsule to cover his retreat, but Lucas was used to fighting with out his eyes relying on his ears to do his seeing for him, and he soon found the man who was giving orders top his men. Lucas recognized the voice as the mercenary leader which was not a fight he wanted, but the man would be hard to lose he didn't take care of it now.

Lucas brought up a fierce attack with two blades working both independently, and in harmony. No one could see the dazzling display of swordsman ship as everyone who was watching the spectacle from their houses for this boring town didn't see much excitement, but they did hear the sound of steel on steel. Lucas has managed to make multiple minor cuts at the mans wrist hand s and forearms before the man slammed his boot into Lucas's chest which sent him near flying out of the smoke cover to land on his back, the breath having been knocked from his lungs. their was a sound of horses, running off and then the smoke cleared and a number of bodies could bee seen lying where the battle between Lucas and the Mercenary leader took place.

It was close to two minutes before Lucas could once again breath enough to look over towards the Princess and seen that her hand maiden was lying very still in her arms, and that the big guy had a look of great sadness on his gruff features. Lucas managed to get to his feet, and retrieved his blades which had been knocked from his hands when he hit the ground. He walked over to the pair who were grieving for their loss while thinking on the mercenary leader. Dammit! He's good, I need something else to beat him. Lucas's thoughts were on the battle that had just happened for the mercenary leader seemed to gifted with the ability to teleport short distances.

As he approached the two his blades now sheathed he spoke in soft tones not wanting to sound heartless, but they needed to go. "It won't be long and they will be back with reinforcements: we should go." he didn't like telling them this, but he couldn't beat their leader, and he knew his skills were even better than his fathers had ever been. He was stronger than his father had been, he was faster than his father had been, and he could endure blows that downed most men, but the mercenary leader was something else, being almost as fast as he was, and far stronger along with being a slightly better swordsman. No that wasn't right, but the ability to teleport made him seem like such.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava nodded at Lucas’s words and sighed looking down at her friends. She could feel Drakon’s pain as he stared at Jaydens limp form in her lap. Gently, as though her friend was still alive she rested her head on the ground and stood, “He’s right Drakon, we can’t stay or we’ll be in greater danger.” she brought her hand up and trailed her finger lightly over the sore spot where the mans hand had choked her earlier before. She walked towards the house and sighed looking back at Drakon, “I’ll gather our things, and we can leave immediately, we need a few supplies though, we need to return to Witch Haunt Woods. I have a few questions for that seer.” She turned and made her way inside, fighting back her feelings of pain as she began to gather what they would need.

After a short time she came out, her eyes falling upon Lucas, “If you feel it would be best, you can go your own path, but I have a journey to complete.” She held back her anger and looked around seeing that despite the danger from before crowds were beginning to gather. They needed to get out while they still could, “Though, your help would be much appreciated…that is if you don’t mind.” She looked back to Lucas, placing the gifted dagger from before in the now empty sheath. Something told her she would need it later on. Looking down she knelt next to her friend and whispered something under her breath, causing Jayden’s form to sink into the earth.

When it had faded away from sight she looked to Drakon, “We can’t stay and mourn her loss, she gave her life to save mine, and I’ll be sure to repay that debt.” She turned and slowly made her way towards the edge of the town. There was no time to waste, they could either follow her or she would go at this alone. Images of Jayden falling to the ground filled her mind, and she walked on, hearing the familiar soft footfalls of Drakon close behind her. She wasn’t sure if Lucas would come but part of her hoped he would, something at the back of her mind, told her their journey together had only begun. The crowds on the streets stirred nervously and whispered as the tales begun. Surely some had heard the man from before refer to her as ‘Princess’ and she felt her secret was as good as out, and it was only a matter of time before the hunting began.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

As she was walking of Lucas had to make a decision, and it took a few seconds once again. He noted that Drakon was still standing over the grave of the princess's hand maiden, and as he began to walk off ,Lucas stopped him with one hand on the big man's shoulder. "I'll catch up with you guys out in the wilds." His azure eyes were blazing as he said this for he really didn't want to get involved, but she kinda needed his help. The big man nodded, and turned to walk off seeming distraught over the loss of the woman whom had just been laid to rest. It wasn't till that point that Lucas realized that they must have been of some relation considering the way he acted towards her, and it sort of reminded him of how his father had always treated him as a soldier. Lucas however needed to give them some time to get out, and so he re drew his blades, and looked to the crowd whom had gathered around the spectacle.

He ran forward in what would appear to be a wild rage, and his ferocity sent the crowd into a panic as they ran away from the dangerous young man. He broke off not long after that, and darted to the right into the merchants sector of town, and began to cut some of the merchants tents as to cause even more panic. As he ran by, one tent after another lost it's integrity and at least partially fell to the ground, and then the remaining guards were onto him. Their weren't many left in the small town, for most had died in the few hours he had been in town, but the ones that still lived seem to know the town well. It was only due to his higher overland movement that he was outrunning them even as they attempted to cut him off at every corner.

Soon though he was at one of the towns many twenty foot wall with a small gang of guards chasing after him surely thinking they had him cornered, but Lucas never slowed as he reached the wall, and at the last second he gave a slight jump catching him self at one of the corners of the wall for a brief moment, and one quick hop after another eventually had him at the top. He wasn't yet out of the woods for they had brought their crossbows to beard and were firing bolts at him, and only with some quick slashes was he able to deflect the projectiles that were well aimed. Lucas ran forward two long strides and jumped off the wall landing in a full run as he made his way for the tree line that was a few hundred yards out.

Once Lucas made it to the tree line he watched in hiding for a few moments for he had placed him self in the general direction of the Witch Haunt Woods, and so he expected as quick as he had made his way out of their along with the distraction that the two could sneak out. But he didn't know for sure, and if he didn't see them soon he was going to have to decide weather he wanted to go back in, or just leave them to their fates. Unfortunately for Lucas he already knew that he would indeed go in after them if they had some how been caught, but he would prefer not to put him self at more risk for they would have had to fight their way out for sure if he hadn't made the distraction. But then some times people just got lucky in one way or another, and he knew better than most that not all luck was good.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava looked up as screams of terror filled the air and she paused looking about noting that the people were in a panic. Her eyes fell upon the form of Lucas as he charged forth and broke the crowds up, causing a distraction for them to escape. Grabbing Drakon's hand she pulled the man into a slight run, and heard a guard shout behind them. Drakon seemed to almost be dragging his feet and he stopped altogether, and Ava felt her body jerk slightly and she fell to the ground. Looking up one more guard stepped in front of her while the other confronted Drakon, "Where in the hell do you two think you are going?" he said slightly shaking at the daggers that seemed to fly from the old man's eyes. Standing she watched as Drakon drew his blade, his eyes cold and his expression showing nothing more than hatred. The guard was visibly shaking, almost as though he regretted even addressing Drakon.

In a flash, before Ava could even blink Drakon rushed forward and plunged his sword into the mans throat knocking him down and pinning him to the ground before drawing his other blade and turning the man who was advancing at Ava. With one stroke he took off the man’s sword arm and grabbed Ava picking her up and holding her over his shoulder, “Forgive me your highness but you’re much too slow.” The world around them seemed to blur as Drakon moved almost inhuman like through the town not stopping until they were at the front gate. Stopping there he set Ava down and walked over to the chain that held the gate close and began turning it. Ava felt a pang of guilt stab at her chest as she looked upon her old protector, not only had she lost a best friend, but he had lost a daughter. As he locked the gate up she rested her hand upon his shoulder, “I’m sorry, its my fault…please forgive me.”

Drakon didn’t speak he merely walked out, leaving Ava almost jogging to keep up with his long stride. After they had reached the edge of the wood s he stopped and looked back, figuring they were a safe distance. Placing his hand on Ava’s shoulder he shook his head, “She did what she had to and so must you. Don’t let her death be in vain.” Little did Ava know, the prophecy was unfolding little by little before her, she still felt guilty for the death of his daughter still feeling it was her responsibility. A soft crack of a stick nearby caught her attention and drew her from her thoughts. Her fingers twitched and she prepared a spell in case she should need to attack. “Lucas is that you?” she said, realizing then just how bad she was shaking.

 

[Eternal_Blade]

Lucas had been watching for some time, and was surprised by just how long it had taken them to get out. He continued watching to make sure they weren't followed to the forest area, and then began to move closer to them. After everything they had been through they would be on edge, and so before he had even gotten within sixty feet of them he intentionally stepped on a dried out branch on the forest floor to make a sound as to not startle them too much. He heard her questioning voice ask if it was him, and so he replied as soon as she finished her speech. "Yeah it's me, just giving you some warning after all if some one crept up on me in the middle of the woods I would fight first and ask questions latter." his tone was soft, and gentle. He walked into sight soon after he finished his foot falls making no noise for he had been well trained for moving silently in the woods.

Lucas walked out of behind a group of tree's and smiled politely at the two, and gave a shrug at him even being here. "What can I say; I'm a sucker for a pretty face." He said sarcastically in an attempt to hide his own lonely heart. His smile was still on his face as he walked up to the pair who looked like they were both trying to settle them selves out after their ordeal. He sighed, and began to move a little farther to the east, before turning around and motioning for them to follow. "There a good camp spot less than a mile east, and I think we can reach it well before night fall." he frowned at his seemingly insensitive actions, but they needed to make camp before dusk which was fast approaching in the last hours of twilight.

The sky was blue with twilight fast falling into night as he moved more toward the east making sure to make enough noise for them to follow. He knew they would have trouble keeping up, even Drakon who was easily faster then most men over land, but out here, the terrain was ruff, and only those who knew how to move through the forest would not be hampered. It took less than fifteen minutes for him to reach the camp spot which was next to a crystal blue lake as the first rays of moon light touched it's pristine surface. There was a large clearing all around the fairly large lake, that Lucas was sure few of those from the town most likely knew of it's existence.

In the time that it took the two to get back Lucas already had a large fire going about twenty feet from the lakes edge, and his bed roll had been laid out for him to to sit on. it was an old beat up leather bedroll which had seen far better days, but it was still comfortable. Man why am I even here; helping them! It's not even any of my concern. His thoughts faded against the beauty of the lake as they finally made it into the clearing with Drakon cursing about the underbrush that had slowed them till it was all but dark, the half moon above casting it light to guide them here. "Well what do you think: your Highness?" The last part of the sentence was delayed slightly for it was obvious that he felt odd saying the words that regarded her station.

 

[Serena_Alcazar]

Ava relaxed as Lucas spoke and stepped into view, and she let the energy fade back into her body safely as she brushed her hair back from her eyes. “Sorry it took us so long to get out of there, we ran into a couple of guards who weren’t so distracted by your chaos.” she gave a weak smile, masking her pain as he spoke of a place to camp for the night. Looking at Drakon she nodded thinking it would be best if they were to rest. As he began to walk off she followed but quickly lost him, as she was not as accustomed to walking in the thick brush of the forests. Drakon wasn’t too much further behind as she struggled forward, hearing her body guard curse more than she’d ever heard in her life. After a bit she caught sight of a break in the trees and stepped out into the clearing that Lucas had spoke to.

The sight was truly breath taking, she’d always loved star gazing and the way the moon reflected upon the waters. Her eyes fell upon Lucas’ form and she made her way towards him, her bodyguard close behind cursing as he struggled through the last bit of the brush. Stopping just short of his bedroll she smiled softly at him, her mind taken shortly from Jayden’s death. “It’s beautiful.” She said, “May I sit here with you?” She asked softly taking a seat as he nodded in reply to her question. Her eyes fell upon the fire for a moment and she found herself lost in thought for a bit but blinked and turned her head towards him, “If it makes you feel more comfortable you can call me Ava, I’d prefer it actually….I would feel more comfortable with it in fact.” she drew her eyes away from his and turned her gaze to the sky.

Drakon took a seat on the other side of the fire, staring hard into the flames. She felt that same pang of guilt from earlier as her gaze remained upon the stars, “Thank you for your help Lucas.” She said quietly her eyes falling upon a bright star towards the north. She always lost herself in the stars when she had the chance, something about them made her feel released from her burdens and they often helped her to think more clearly. Bringing her gaze down to meet Lucas’s once again she asked, “What made you decide to stick with us?” her tone was soft but curious as she looked deeply into his eyes getting almost as lost in them as she did in the stars. "His eyes make me feel almost as though I'm at peace. Why is that?" she drew her gaze from his, slightly shocked at how looking into his eyes made her feel.