Sinegard Academy for the Wayward

[milkmaiden38]

The dragon’s upper lip curled as she smiles.

“Polite guests, one with a silver tongue, another that speaks my language! What a pleasant surprise. My proper title is Duchess of Shadowfell, Lady of the Shimmeringgloom. I serve her Wretchedness, the Raven Queen. I deserve a more grand title… I have earned it. I, who should be my lady’s herald. I will see the day when I sit at her side!”

The dragon looked at each party member. But her eyes dwelled longer on Van, Ravyn, and Angela.

Angela gently took Van's hand out of her massive cleavage and stood up.

“Oh great duchess, your power, opulence, and grandeur is stunning to behold.” Angela began “I’m Angela Bloodgem. My fellow travelers are John Marshall Van Keller or Van for short, Ravyn Nightshade, Gem Devonshire, and Angus Maximus.”

“You are Vampire” The dragon interrupted

“I am” Angela confirmed “And you are the most stunning shadow dragon I have seen.

The dragon spread her wings a bit at this comment.

“Excuse my ignorance, but I know little about shadow dragons. My awe of you would increase with knowledge of the tale of your transformation.”

Duchess of Shadowfell face took on an angry look “If you know about transformation, you are not as ignorance as you claim. Do not try to trick me with your flattery.”

Angela bowed her head “My ignorance is real, ask my fellow travelers. I led them to this place, in the belief we were headed to the fortress of memories. My knowledge of shadow dragons is simply. Shadow dragons are either born in the Shadowfell or transformed by years spent in Shadowfell.

Gem also gently removed Van’s hand from her cleavage. “Duchess of Shadowfell, I can attest to Angela’s stupidity!”

Angus stood up “I can as well”

Duchess of Shadowfell body rumbled with a low laugh “The complete lack of loyalty your companions show amuses me. I have not laughed in over 100 years. For that, I shall tell you, my tale. I was once a bronze dragon, as foolish as you Angela. I came to Shadowfell in the hope to understand the realm and the Raven Queen.

The magical nature of dragons holds an attraction for the Shadowfell, which seems somehow to crave the might and majesty of us great reptiles. We in turn are also pulled to it. However, The Shadowfell also has a dispiriting effect on any creature that stays too long.

Dragons are very magic resistant, and as such I felt I could resist the plane’s malaise. However, as months and years passed, I was seduced by its power. When I became aware of the transformation being wrought upon me, I could do nothing to prevent it.

I realized now how foolish I had been. My place is here in the shadows. I have become a mighty dragon. A force in this plane. If only I could blunt the despair and gloom, my existence would be complete.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“The blessing of Immortality is within your reach, if you so desire it.” Ravyn said, her eyes glowing with Hellfire.

“No!” She snapped. “A Bargain made cannot be unmade.”

“Truth you speak, but it can be.. re-negotiated.” She said, arguing with herself.

“I refuse a negotiation, Maintain the agreement.”

Punching a rock formation she pulverized it with her bare hand, a snarl ripping from her lips.

“I apologize, Great Lady Duchess of the Shimmergloom, that you have become becalmed in the Night Shadows of Shadowfell. How by chance could we blunt your despair and gloom?”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Duchess of the Shimmergloom

The monstrous winged reptile moved closer. They all could see the fearsome power in its body, legs, tail, and large teeth that filled its mouth. Dragons were known and feared for their predatory cunning and greed, with the oldest dragons accounted as some of the most powerful creatures in the world.

Duchess of the Shimmergloom was old. She was also a magical creature whose innate magical energy fueled her dreaded breath weapons. She was now close enough to blast everyone with her breath weapon.

“Blunting the despair and gloom. It is difficult. I have thought hard about it. But I have few answers. What would you suggest” The Duchess asked.

“Duchess, you might try some bright, cheerful, wall paper for your cave.” Angela suggested “This slamming skeletal corpses into canyon walls is really dated. Smells bad too”

The dragon did not laugh this time at Angela’s joke. “Everything with color fades in Shadowfell.”

“Can you take a vacation? Leave for six months?” Angus asked

“I can leave, but it does little for me.” The duchess replied sadly

“Drugs” Gem offered “They have some good ones now for humans. Prozac, Zoloft, to name two. I just not sure they would work on a dragon.”

“They won’t” Dragon stated “I have found a way to beat the despair and gloom. Companionship. Another soul to talk to, to interact with, someone to lighten this bleak existence. It has worked but only for a short time. The mistake I made was selecting a human. Such short-lived creatures. But being such as you three.” The dragon pointed at Van, Ravyn, and Angela. “You will live a long time. You can blunt the despair with your jokes about wall paper.”

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

“I think I have someone who can help… but I would need to travel a fair distance to bring them here….If I were to promise to find you a conversational companion to your liking… would you agree to help my friends on good faith in the meantime?” Van asked honestly.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

“As much as the idea of being a companion to a Shadow Dragon intrigues me oh Great one, I could not stay. After all within a month we would have shared all of our stories worth talking about, within a year even those not worth talking about would be shared and then you would suffer Ennui once more.”

“However, if you’d like to make a dead, we could arrange for an individual to be delivered to you once a year with new stories and tales of adventure.”

With her hands in the pockets of her sweater she was extremely calm and non threatening. And with her size the Dragon could easily gobble her in one bite, no chewing needed as she was swallowed whole. If the Dragon so did choose.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Moving forwards M’Kael spotted the intruders, his blade sliding from it’s sheath as he readied his shield. Healer first, Spellcaster second, warrior third. The demon would be fourth and the female thief would be last.

The tactical assault would commence in moments, and would be their last. Intruders were never spared, never forgiven. Especially when they came to steal.

And they way this group came, unbidden, unwelcome, obviously they were here for a nefarious purpose. And he’d been ordered to kill the intruders.

From the darkness of shadow and dim light he threw a flurry of blades at the group

The curiosity was watching them and the Shadow Dragon speaking. Making a deal? A conspiracy to over through the Queen Perhaps? Never happen since she was a GOD!! But he’d wait to see what transpired, just in case treason was afoot.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Angela's Idea

“All of you have people, you can bring to me… intriguing. Do these people want to stay here? Can these people resist the oppressive blanket of despair and gloom that is the nature of The Shadow Fell?” The dragon asked.

Angela thought she saw a glimmer of hope in the monster’s eyes. The hope lit by Van’s and Ravyn’s ideas might save them and the dragon. Then an even better idea occurred to her.

“Duchess of the Shimmergloom, there maybe a person here within The Shadowfell that I think would gladly be your Companion. I believe you have already met him. M’Kael Wolvenbane. He, like Ravyn, are resistant to The Shadowfell oppressive blanket. In fact, last time we visited, M’Kael said it felt like home.

As for stories and excitement, he has both in abundance. He loves getting and giving pleasure. You would need to transform for him, or transform him into a compatible creature.” Angela explained.

“Angela, you can’t speak for M’Kael!” Gem protested. “Besides, we are here to bring him back. Not to find him a mate!”

“Hey, I think know him pretty well. If I may say it without getting eaten, The Duchess is one sexy dragon. She has nice lines! M’Kael would be all over her. And she can change into any women he wants. Most men would LOVE that! With time running at different rates, he could visit The Duchess and be with us. We’d never even know he was gone.” Angela reasoned

“I think you are wrong. Ravyn knows him better than any of us.” Gem said “what do you think, Ravyn?”

“Her thoughts do not matter. M’Kael is my Wretchedness, the Raven Queen, play thing. He is no longer available” The dragon said sadly. The hope was gone from her eyes.

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

“The person I have in mind is currently imprisoned in a far worse place than the Shaddowfel, and while I could not remove his need for penance … perhaps I could arrange for his remaining time to be spent here. He is very old and very wise. It’s actually what he is being held for… his real crimes were paid for long ago…He has seen many centuries worth of stories, and has the ability to not only tell them to you, but show you through arcane means. He is educated and would serve you well. Not as a slave but rather like you… in search of conversation and the like.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Ravyn looked confused for a moment, glancing at Gem. “Why would I know him better than anyone?” She asked, “I haven’t slept with him, That was Lorelei and Angela. And Maybe you or Angus.”

Looking at the Dragon she raised an Eyebrow, “We know Thine titles Greatness, but not thine name. It would at least be easier than your such Grand and eloquent titles.

“As for Master Wolvenbane, I think you’d find him repulsive anyways. Although from what I understand he’s skilled in the art of sexual pleasure, he’d bore you to tears with his skills at story telling.”

“They entities I would have delivered unto you would be of a rotating species, wizards, mages, sages, sorcerer’s, Barbarian, thieves, and fighters. Perhaps even a Paladin or anti-Paladin. All of them would make a bargain to come here either for the adventure of it or for wisdom. I’m sure most would be willing, but I could not guarantee that. I would require that you not consume them, after all it would most likely be in their agreement to not be eaten.”

“And I’m quite sure I could find agreeable individuals to communicate and share stories for a year at a time. And each year would bring a fresh perspective of stories and idea’s.”

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

The little Rogue had an irritating manner of speech, and kept using Dragon to talk, the grating growls and snuffs were annoying at best. Most of the time when people used the rough speech of Dragon kind it was because they were bargaining for their lives, and badly.

The other Rogue had a pair of horns and was smelled like a drunk smoker whore on a bender, a Tiefling by blood it looked. But it probably had a human or an elf somewhere in it’s bloodline a few generations back. Nothing recent through from it’s appearance.

The Female thief just wouldn’t shut up though, probably needed a dick in her through to keep her occupied.

The Warrior/barbarian – a Minotaur – looked bored. Probably had to borrow a brain cell from someone just to talk without mooing.

The two that concerned him the most were the Healer and the spellcaster. Which Deity did they draw the healing ability from, and which power cycle did the caster use. Witch? Wizard? Mage? Sorcery? A witch's hat could simply be a fashion choice after all. So many styles and ways of getting and casting spells, each with its own quirks. Although.. cut off a hand and spells fail. Maybe remove her tongue?

 

[milkmaiden38]

Callo

“There is power in a name. But you have earned the right to know mine. I was called Callo” The female dragon purred. Hope had returned to her eyes. She was enjoying the conversation and many of the options provided.

“I like many of the options you suggest. I would need to know more about some of them. Who is this dammed spirit you could bring to me?” She asked Van directly.

“I would also like to know, what you wish me to do for you?” She asked the whole group.

“I was thinking transportation to the Queen’s fortress and transportation away after we talk M’Kael into returning with us.” Angela offered.

“Why go all the way to the fortress. M’Kael is near listening.” Callo told everyone

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Betrayal!! M’Kael screamed in his head as he launched himself forwards and downwards, his shield to the fore as he targeted the Healer with a bull rush, his blade swinging for the next closest. Made of shadow steel it would ignore Armour and cut the soul within. Granted magic would gain a defense against the blade but not much.

The shadows danced and played across his armour as he tried to use his powers but the damned shit was stopping him.

The Queen had inhibited his abilities even as he’d learned more. It seemed that the more he learned the more she hampered him.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Gem

Gem gasped as Cello said M’Kael was close by. She turned to spot him, and just saw the charging armored man. She had seconds to react, and no time to think. She cast the spell she had ready in case the dragon attacked, Evard’s Black Tentacles. The attacking man was too close, and as the squirming, ebony tentacles rose from ground they he had already passed that area. But one tentacle was able to catch his armored foot, and delay him a second.

It was just enough time, for Gem to dodge under his black blade. The blade connected with her staff, but strangely it passed through the iron wood.

Angus

Angus saw the attack man and tried to block him, but to his surprise, black tentacle rose up from the ground wrapping around both his legs. He could not move.

“ARRGGGHHH” he roared and torn himself free of the tentacles. He also pulled out his two short swords ready to fight the attacker once he came near Gem again.

Callo

Callo was in a tight spot; she could not damage her mistress’ plaything. But she also did not want him to hurt her chance for companionship. She turned on her dragon fear, rearing up on her hind legs, her great wings out, and ROARED “STOPPPPPPPPP”

Weak minded people would be stunned by dragon fear. M’Kael was not weak minded. Nevertheless, it she felt it was worth a try.

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

Van was about to pull his own weapons when the dragon spoke. He eased the hammer downwards and waited to see what would happen. Friend or foe, he was getting a bit sick of finding himself in peril due to the others. He didn’t particularly want to kill M’kael , but if it came to it he would. He would kill any of them if he had to. He shook the thought. Something was definitely different within him now. He could feel his blood pulsating though his veins. No…he would decide his own fate. Regardless of the deal he had made. He removed a flask from his breast pocket and took a swig. The liquid seared his throat and he focussed inward. On the pain. Deep breaths. He watched and waited.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

M’Kael shifted his glare (Hidden by the helmet) towards the dragon for a moment. “Foul beast, protected from you’re witchery I am through the grace of the Goddess.”

Ravyn snapped a kick at the back of his knee’s, forcing him to the ground as she grabbed his helmet and tried heaving it off. Clinging to him like a spider monkey,a kitten, or a small child she maintained her grip as he lurched about trying to dislodge her.

“Got off me you disgusting whore!" M'Kael bellowed.

“Help me you fuckers,” Ravyn yelled. “If though would be so kind as to hold him to the floor with your fore hand Oh great and merciful Callo, I’d be grateful.”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Angus

At first, no one knew who this attacker was, but then he spoke “Get off me you disgusting whore!" Angus could not be sure, but it sure sounded like M'Kael and something M’Kael would say.

Angus was a star football player for the university. At first glance, everyone assumed it was for his size and strength. He was big and very strong. But his keen insight on knowing where to be and his blazing speed is what really made him a star.

Angus stiff armed the black tentacle trying to grab him, and spun away from another. He hooves pounding into the shadowfell ground, as the bull charged full speed into M’Kael and Ravyn. His tackle was textbook. Pinning M’Keal sword and arms to his side as they all crashed into the ground.

“GOT HIM” Angus yelled in triumph

His move was effective, but Ravyn was behind M’Kael. And M’Kael was in armor and so was Angus. Ravyn was buried under two suits of armor, M’Kael and Angus (the weight of a minotaur!).

That was when Callo helped out and wrapped her meaty clawed hand around both M’Kael and Angus.

Ravyn was able to squeeze out still holding on to M’Kael's helm.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Crawling from underneath everything, Ravyn was a bit pissed off. She hadn’t wanted to get power driven into anything, much less turned into the only girl in a threesome.

Reorienting herself she flung M’Kael’s helmet away and leaned over him. It was rather difficult with a dragon foot and a Minotaur in the way but she managed to get in his face. In a blink she’d manifested fully demonic, her infernal voice a grating command.

M’Kael screamed, thrashing against the combined mass of Angus and Callo, his face turning to a pale ashen gray as his eyes turned a smoky black.

Leaning down the Demon kissed M’Kael and reverted to Ravyn, leaving the two kissing each other. The two that hated each other. The two that were revolted by the others behaviors and action.

Jerking away Ravyn looked like she wanted to vomit.

A lot.

“Oh shit, I’m gonna be sick..” Moving away she leaned against a rock and dry heaved for a few seconds before straightening up.

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

Van walked over near Angela and took out his flask…and took another stinging swig before speaking…”Fuuuck me….those two are gonna need some serious family therapy when this is all over.” He said just watching like it was an episode of a daytime talk show drama. “Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!”

 

[milkmaiden38]

Angela

Angela reached over for the flask, clearly wanting a swig. Van handed it to her. She took a swig and handed it back. Her face took on a “sour” look as she swallowed, before it returned to normal

“That is some rough stuff” she said. It was unclear whether the comment was about Ravyn and M’Kael or whatever was in the flask or both situations.

“There is no Single Truth... in the multiverse. There is room for everything. I have seen angels and demons get together. Fantastical encounters. Situations that might encourage a person to reexamine their beliefs in the face of a simple kiss.” Angela in a sagely manner. Then the jokey Angela returned “And if you were wondering… between us. I’m the angel and you are the demon.”

Angus

“M’Kael… why did you attack us?” Angus asked, although is was with some difficulty with the dragon was squeezing him as well.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Staggering over Ravyn looked at the group and answered Angus’ question. “He doesn’t know us. She took his memories of us. All of us. He’s been here for over a thousand years. The Other could see the spells on his bedroom/cell. Time warping. There's a Mind Flayer ass well, one of her attendants. He’s been manipulating M’Kael’s memories and making him more.. pliable.”

“The thing’s she’s made him do are.. revolting.” Ravyn continued as she sat on a large rock.

The other slid forwards, showing itself to the group, flaming skull burning through Ravyn’s pale skin. Orbs of Rage and future torment staring at them “He’s going to burn in hell for his sin’s. An eon of torment before he’s sold and consumed.”

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

“between us. I’m the angel and you are the demon.”…. Angela had said….van tried to stop her from taking the flask but it was too late…… “well… that must be true. Because that was holy water you just drank?!” He said screwing up one eyebrow. I guess that’s one myth busted about vampires.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Angela

“Holy water? Why in the hell… I mean heaven… are you drinking that piss?” Angela exclaimed as she gagged a little thinking about what she just drank. “For your information, holy water suppresses my ability to heal for about 6 seconds. That is all it does. Except for a BAD taste in my mouth”

Gem

“I have an idea. I can alter M’Kael’s short term memory of this encounter. I was thinking we could all be captured by Callo when he arrives. Callo will insist that we be taken back alive to see the queen. Thoughts?” She asked everyone. "Gets us into the fortress alive... and in front of the queen"

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

“let’s just say it keeps me honest with myself” Van said screwing the cap on tightly…that’s a good idea Gem, but it’s still Callo’s decision as to the terms for their assistance.” Van said gesturing to Callo.

 

[The_Weeping_Angel]

Walking over the Other gazed at Gem and Van, what seemed to be smile playing across the flames and skull. “It’s fascinating. The Game of Names has no competition, Until Mortals get involved, then the games and manipulations get interesting.”

Reaching out he grabbed the flask, twisting the top the wrong way until he ripped it off with sheer pressure. As the liquid flowed his flames burned brighter until he handed the now empty flask back - bearing indentations from his fingers. “Weak, try Corellon Larethian, or a stronger Human Deity. That shit is swill and tastes like Haagenti's ass sauce."

“Do be so kind as to say hello to your respective father’s from me,” he said turning to look at Cello. “Greeting oh Shadowy one,” he continued in Human the dice appearing and starting to roll in and out of his fingers as he made them dance like a court jester.

“Would you like to make a deal?” he asked with a smile.

 

[Wayne_Wilder82]

“Well, you also didn’t have to drink it all…” he said looking at the dented flask before tossing it over his shoulder.

“And while I’ve no doubt that you know of my father, I doubt that even you would be so brazen in his presence. And while I am not him, I do serve as his hand, and playing shadow games with this young and poorly chosen Avatar who cannot seem to figure out if she is a victim or if you have twisted her mind into believing she is your second coming, honestly that is the only “weak swill” that I can see. Even the ruler of the nine has limitations. Your hubris will be your undoing. Neither me nor my father has any ambition to take that long held throne of yours… for now… so you must decide… play nice and keep the support of our house…. or I can ventilate this bitch now and you can go and play with another one of your puppets.” He said with an almost pin drop punctuation of silence. His eyes black…cold….

“Dearest Callo,… I’ve changed my mind…. Can you just eat this one please?” He said half jokingly as his pupils returned.