"You my friend have really got to chill you’re "I'm the best and no one can mess with me" attitude" Eyrion shouted at Vannolyn. He set his friend down and sat next to her.1
"You need to tell me the truth now, where they went every thing now i can tell if you are lying or not" Vannolyn shouted pushing Eyrion into the ground.2
"You know, I'm not as evil as you make me out to be. I have killed 15 people tops my whole life. I have never lied, the only bad thing you can pin on me is I don't trust you" Eyrion stood in Vannolyn's face.3
"You think you could take me?" Vannolyn asked grabbing Eyrion’s vest once again.4
"That's it I have had it" Eyrion placed his leg behind Vannolyn's and shoved him to the ground. Eyrion drew his sword and placed the blade at Vannolyn throat.5
"You forget your place, if you threaten me again Dark elf I will no longer help you. You underestimate us regular elf, we have more skill than you even though we are weaker" Eyrion quietly said angry at the elf.6
"You are right let us do this as friends" Vannolyn put his hand between him and Eyrion nodding his head.7
"Yes" Eyrion grabbed his hand.8
Rose, her sister and Balak flew over the tall forest trees toward Trudoc Castle, oblivious to the fact that they were flying right over the spot where Rayne and Liara had stopped for lunch.9
Liara munched quietly on raw deer leg, while watching Rayne cook her own dinner. "I don't understand, Rayne." The Wolvic said curiously, "Why don't you just eat it fresh? I mean, it's not like it's going to hurt you or anything. Anyways, it tastes better this way." Rayne just smiled to herself and continued turning the spit over the small fire. Suddenly, Liara's ears pricked, and her head shot up, nose in the air.10
"What is it?" Rayne questioned warily, grabbing a cup of water to douse the fire, if need be. Liara didn't answer. She just sniffed the air more vigorously. "Quick! Put it out!" She suddenly whispered, and Rayne threw the cup of water on the small fire, and then stomped on it to stop the smoke. Liara then stood over both Rayne and the fire, and ducked her head, looking just like a rock to anyone flying overhead. At that moment, the sorceress and Rose flew over with Balak, heading to Trudoc castle. They never knew what they had missed.11
When they had gone, Liara uncurled, and Rayne let out a sigh of relief. "What was that?" She wondered aloud.12
"Lemme see." Liara replied. Her eyes focused on the dot drawing farther and farther away, and then her jaw dropped open. "It's... a Wolvic! And Rose! And some other thing and they're flying toward Trudoc Castle!"13
"Maybe we should have gone after them instead of coming out here to hunt, Liara. What if Rose is in danger?" Rayne stared at the empty sky.14
Liara kept looking on and wondered why they wanted Rose. "I think we should try to help her. I doubt she would've gone willingly."15
Rayne nodded in agreement. "Let's try to ambush them somehow."16
Rayne climbed upon Liara's back and they stealthily followed behind Barak and the strange creature that held Rose captive.17
Meanwhile, Rose had noticed them and Called Liara with her mind. '...Liara! Where have you and Rayne been? These two replaced you and then captured me. I don't suppose you could give me some help? I'm kind of tied down.'18
Liara heard her call and replied. 'Yes, we figured as much. Just act normally and we'll do what we can to help.'19
Rose closed her eyes and remained silent. Her wings and legs were starting to get cramped and it was rather uncomfortable. However, she had faith in Rayne and Liara. She hoped that they would be able to save her.20
"It's a good thing that Rose is here," whispered Rayne as Liara soared after them.21
Liara merely growled. True, with the dragoness here, that would most likely mean that they could finally leave this place. The blasted barrier was in their way. It was no wonder they hadn't been restrained...there just wasn't any need to. Whatever came in never went out...at least, without the barrier moving.22
Rayne unlatched her bow and strung three arrows on it. If her aim was as good as it was before, she'd strike the wolfic and the other creature, the grinsdale, without a problem. She had seen the creature many a time before...23
The barbed-tipped heads whirled through the air as Liara let out a howl. The grinsdale turned to look as the arrows buried into her steed and her right calf. The enchantress screeched in pain as Balak tumbled down towards the forest below. Liara dove after them. They couldn't see where Rose was as tuffs of fur and such trailed behind the falling monstrosities.24
Wind roared in Rayne's ears as she tried to untie her spear for closer combat. The wolfic would regain his wings in but a short time. As if on cue, the wolfic slowed and slowly landed in a clearing. He stood proudly before them as Liara landed opposite him. "Balak," growled Liara. She would never forget the mutt.25
Balak didn't respond as he smiled in wolfish glee at their latest prey. So it was Liara and some puny creature. What could be easier prey than that? The wolfic aimed for Liara as he pounced.26
Rayne knew what the creature would do. She didn't know why she knew, but she did. She dove before Liara and thrust her halberd up into the soft underbelly of the beast as he came overhead. His momentum forced the sharpened blade through from front to back, splattering the ground below in foul carnage.27
Liara growled at the stench as she turned to see to Balak's final moments. Rayne turned to see the enchantress holding Rose to her like some sort of living shield. The grinsdale's eyes were large and panicked. Her hands shook, whether from fear or from anger, it was hard to say.28
Rayne's eyes were not on Succoa, the grinsdale, but on Rose. The dragoness' eyes were level and calm. Her crimson colored eyes seemed to be bleeding inwards until they were completely black. That was something Rayne recognized...Rose was changing.29
Rose transformed into her Dragon form and thrashed at Succoa with her tail, knocking her half sibling out when she hit a tree. Then, she transformed back to her Dragoness form.30
She turned towards the two who helped her. "Thank you. Vannolyn and Eyrion are probably on their way to help as well, so hopefully they will be able to help us along the way."31
Rose turned in a particular direction. She knew this place, but it had been a long time. However, she could still vividly picture everything. "Come on. The exit is this way."32
"Do you even know where we are going?" Eyrion asked pushing a branch form his face.33
"I have to admit I'm a little lost" Vannolyn tripped over a rock.34
"Watch out those rocks jump out at you" Eyrion laughed falling over a stump.35
"Yes, but the stumps are worse I can see" Vannolyn helped Eyrion up.36
"You smell that?" Eyrion perked his nose in the air. He sniffed a couple times and then turned to his right. "It's there" He pointed.37
"What is where?" Vannolyn asked confused.38
"Don't you smell it? Carnage. Blood. THAT WAY." Eyrion spoke as if to a child.39
"Oh, you mean the smell that I've been trying to tell you about for THE PAST FIVE MINUTES??? Hmmmm... Lemme think... No, I don't smell it." Vannolyn rolled his eyes sarcastically.40
Eyrion huffed, "Well, if you smelled it, then why weren't you going toward it?"41
"Are you really an elf? Of course I wouldn't have gone straight toward it! I was going around it, in order to sneak up on it from where they can't smell us!" Vannolyn was getting frustrated.42
"Well you want to know what I think about that?" Eyrion got his face in Vannolyn's, raising his voice.43
"I think you should keep your voice down in case there's someone around here," Rose said.44
"Yeah! What she said!" Vannolyn shouted back at Eyrion. Suddenly, the two realized that they were not alone. They turned together to see Liara laying on the ground a few yards from them, panting, and Rayne using the Wolvic as a backrest. Rose was standing nearby, leaning against a tree. All three had big, silly grins on their faces. The two elves looked at each other, and then quickly stepped away from each other, looking sheepishly at the ground.45
"Boys." Rayne said, laughing.46
Rose shook her head. "We should try to keep moving before Succoa decides to wake up again. The carnage that you smell is Liara's brother's blood. Now please, can we get out of here?"47
They all looked at one another and nodded in agreement.48
Rose took the lead. "Come on. Just a little further this way."49
They all followed her without question. Vannolyn watched her closely, wondering when he should bring up the question of if she was really the dark lord's daughter. In private, or in everyone else's presence? He thought it would be best to do it in private after a bit of thinking so no one would be too alarmed and jump to conclusions. They could both tell everyone else Rose's explanation in the morning.50
Rayne however wasn't up for waiting for anything. She hurried up and walked abreast with Rose. Liara took the rear to guard their retreat. "I know about Succoa."51
Rose didn't bother looking at Rayne as she hurried along the familiar pass. Rayne, in all her innocent glory, didn't realize Rose would rather not speak of it, "She was you sister or something wasn't she?"52
The glare Rose sent her would have made a lesser lass faint, or at least grow silent and pale. Yet, true to her most naive sense of curiosity and such, Rayne pressed onwards. They could both hear Eyrion and Vannolyn's muffled laughter from behind as Rayne spoke next. Both elves knew that Rayne would be in for quite a surprise. "That would make you the dark lord's daughter, wouldn't it, Rose? Is he your father?"53
If looks could kill, Rose wished hers would at least maim. Still, Rayne looked at the older woman with curious eyes like that of a child. Needless to say, it grew quiet for a moment. "Well?" Rayne pressed again.54
"Would you leave me alone" Rose shouted she continued to glare at Rayne.55
"Why can't you just answer me?" Rayne stopped.56
"Because I don't wish two. But because you press the matter i will. Yes he is my father, and yes she is my sister, are you happy now or should i tell you every thing about my life" Rose shouted angered with Rayne.57
Rayne fell silent she knew that Rose was angered and did not wish to continue to talk about this matter right now. Eyrion and Vannolyn just laughed together as Rayne continued on slowly.58
"What a mess she has started" Vannolyn laughed.59
"Shouldn't have brought that up" Eyrion giggled.60
They reached a open spot in the woods and stopped. They decided to rest there for a bit and press forwards in a little bit; the sun was just above the mountains in the east.61
Rose stayed silent for the rest of the evening as they settled down for the night. She could not believe how rude someone could possibly be as to come out and ask such a question as that. Her blood boiled just thinking about it. She was not proud to admit that she was the dark lord's father. She was not proud to admit that she had many half siblings. She never wanted anything to do with the filthy Demon. Especially not after what had happened to her mother.62
Vannolyn looked on, watching Rose quietly as she sat up in a tree and stared out at the moon. She looked...sad and hurt. He had noticed that she always seemed to hide as much of her emotion as possible, but Rayne had opened a wound that would probably never heal. It was only lightly scabbed over and Rayne had torn it apart and made it bleed with her pressing questions.63
When everyone had gone to sleep, he approached the tree Rose sat in and heard something that sounded quite mystical, beautiful even. Rose was humming a song. It sounded sweet and tranquil. He closed his eyes and let himself lull to the sound a while.64
Beautiful, what is it? a song of your country?" Vannolyn asked softly.65
"No, something I picked up during my travels." Rose answered ending her song.66
"It was beautiful" Vannolyn opened his eyes. "So, how are you feeling after that venture?" Vannolyn climbed up the tree sitting on a branch below Rose.67
"I'm just so confused" Rose exhaled heavily68
Vannolyn looked at her and wondered what he could do to comfort her, if anything. Despite the fact that she was the dark lord's daughter, he still thought she was beautiful and he still felt what he had been feeling before. "Why are you confused?"69
Rose opened her eyes and looked up into the sky. "I don't understand why...Why he let me be born if he was just going to..." She stopped and turned away from him.70
Vannolyn put a hand on her shoulder and she flinched away. He moved closed and took her hand in his gently. She did not pull away, but she was tense and her shoulders were shaking. Her breath was coming in shaky. He knew she was crying. "Rose...you can tell me anything. Just know that. I will not judge you. I would never do that. If you must, take my shoulder to lean on instead of trying to hide your tears. It is not healthy to keep it inside."71
Rose stayed turned away from him for a long while, feeling the texture of his hands on hers. For some reason, she liked that and she felt like it was dangerous to feel such a way, but she just couldn't handle everything by herself and she turned around and hugged him tightly, crying into his right shoulder.72
Eyrion slowly woke up hearing Rose cry, he turned him self over and peered up into the trees. "Would you keep it down I'm trying to sleep" He whispered and feel back asleep.73
"They won't catch us just keep the cake" Marin popped up from his sleep and fell back over. "The cake and brandy" He continued to whisper. "Don't take the brandy, no, no" He cried and fell deep into a sleep snoring.74
The wind was gentle and the sky clear, it was a beautiful night. Nothing was wrong, every thing perfect, or romantic in some words. The dark elf continued to hold Rose until she stopped crying.75
Rose pulled away from Vannolyn's arms, instantly feeling like she had done something that would lead to danger. Getting attached to people in such a way was not an option for her. Especially since Vannolyn seemed to be somewhat attached to her too. She shook her head and blinked a few times, wiping her eyes and ignoring Eyrion's comment. She leaned against the tree and for once in a long time, she felt vulnerable and timid.76
Vannolyn saw that she was a little embarrassed at least. She seemed to not be used to such close contact with anyone and the truth was that he wasn't either. However, there was something about Rose that made him want to take her into his arms and keep her there all night, even if nothing more was to occur. He would be content with just that. He continued to advance, twining his fingers into hers.77
Rose did not fight his attempt at getting closer to her, though she did not think it was wise. However, she couldn't really concentrate on what was wise. Like she had been trying to avoid, her heart was taking over and she longed to feel loved or at least cared for. Rose didn't look at Vannolyn, but she could feel his heat and it felt rather nice.78
Vannolyn took her chin in his other hand and turned her face towards him. "Are you alright?"79
Rose looked at him silently for a moment and then looked down towards the ground. "...I'm fine. Memories are just painful. That's all. I tend to try not to think about them, but sometimes I'm driven to," she said bitterly.80
Vannolyn put an arm around her shoulders, wondering deep in his mind if he was going too far. He pulled her closer to him and she looked into his eyes, looking innocent and possibly afraid of what might happen. He smiled at her and used telepathy to ease her mind and help her relax a little more. He sent her images of some beautiful things he had seen in his travels and she closed her eyes and watched with him.81
After a little while of that, Vannolyn felt the tense muscles in Rose's body un-tightened and relax. He stroked her cheek when he opened his eyes again and did something he never expected to do. He kissed her.82
"Now would you look at that, we got lovers in the tree" Marin whispered waking Eyrion.83
Eyrion rolled over and looked up into the tree. "Isn't that cute" He laughed. They woke the others quietly so that Rose and Vannolyn had no clue they were all awake. They all sat watching the two kiss for what seemed like forever.84
"Do you ever run out strength in the tongue?" Marin shouted laughing. Rose turned red and Vannolyn ran into the woods red also. "Now let's pack" He finished shoving a piece of bread in his mouth.85
Rose stayed up in the tree for a long time, thinking about what had happened. She wasn't sure how she felt about it at all and having the others tease her about it wasn't going to help. She looked off into the distance, wondering where and why Vannolyn had gone.86
Soon, Eyrion was shouting at her to come down, since they were ready to leave. She felt Vannolyn's presence in the darkness, which, for some reason, comforted her, and so she jumped down from the tree, spreading her wings so that she would glide down safely and land on her feet.87
The group walked together as Vannolyn led. Rose walked in the back, hearing Eyrion giggle to himself and talking to Marin about the two new 'lovers' in the group. Rose growled quietly, annoyed with how everyone had to make such a big deal of everything that she did. She kept wondering why Vannolyn had done such a thing in the first place and why she had allowed him to do so. She had let her guards down. She would not allow it to happen again.88
Mulling through his mind, he now understood. Love ... such affection for which there was no true explanation. Irrational emotions that could never be fully comprehended, feelings that were not wholly placed upon stone and warmth inside that grew when he was around the one he cared for.89
Vannolyn saw, it was love. Yet it seemed not to be fully reciprocated. Even through the passionate moments and kisses, it seemed as though Rose did not fully let herself immerse within her full feelings. Or we these her true feelings? It didn't make sense, for whatever did in the matters of the heart?90
It was as if nothing was for sure, but still he would keep himself together and stand strong as he had always done before. Though two things we for sure: he would see Rose in a whole new light and Eyrion and Marin would never let him here the end of it.91
Vannolyn concentrated as the group moved through rough terrain. It was to be a long and arduous journey.92
The paths wound deep into forests that only Vannolyn knew of in and out. Everybody followed his lead, concentrating on their surroundings in case of an attack.93
Rose tried her best to concentrate, but thoughts of the night before clouded her mind and she was annoying even herself with the bothersome feelings broiling inside of her. She did not dare to think of what it could be, for she feared that it might be that one thing she was not ready for, love.94
She didn't think she had ever truly felt such before in her life. However, Vannolyn had let something loose from within and she could only look at it negatively. It was clouding her thoughts, her concentration and her vows. So much more with it, but it was all far too complicated for her to comprehend. She hated the bothersome 'flip flops' her heart seemed to be doing with just the thought of how Vannolyn had held her and how his lips touched hers in such a sensual, yet passionate, way. It had made her feel so...wonderful.95
Rose mentally kicked herself for even thinking about. She closed her eyes and continued to walk; trying to clear her mind of all thought like Meridia had taught her. Memories and thoughts blew from the surface like smoke and she was lost in another world. It soon ended when someone touched her shoulder and brought her to a halt.96
Rose opened her eyes and stared up into Vannolyn's dark face. He looked a little concerned and she got lost into his eyes.97
Vannolyn stared into the Dragoness' eyes and she stared into his. If they weren't so close to the others, he might've thought of kissing her sweet lips again, but he knew that would only do more harm than good. "Are you alright, Rose?"98
Rose broke out of her trance when she flinched from his touch just a little, trying to seem distant. "...I'm fine. I was just trying to clear my mind and got lost into the void."99
Vannolyn looked at her a moment longer, wondering if she was truly uninterested in him or if she was just trying to make him believe so. "Meditation...I have heard much about it, but have never experienced it myself. I have heard that it is quite relaxing and bring peace to both the heart and soul."100
Rose nodded. "A friend of mine meditates everyday to control her magic. She taught me enough for me to be able to try to clear my mind and concentrate on things that are more important than wandering thoughts."101
"Hey, why don't the two love birds get tonguing it again?" they heard Eyrion shout out and start to giggle with Marin.102
Rose glared at the laughing men and growled deep in her throat. She pulled out of Vannolyn's light grasp and jumped up into a tree. She stood, leaning on the bark, watching the sky until it darkened and their supper was ready. She did not eat what they did, however. Rose could go many days without food because she was a Vampiress. She knew that it was time for her to feed again.103
When the others slowly drifted off to sleep and Vannolyn was left as the watch, Rose crept from the tree as quietly as she could manage and went out in search of food. Blood. Any would do, as long as it came from Fairies, elves or humans. She disliked any other blood type in any other species.104
Rayne slipped away from the campsite. Vannolyn wouldn't stop her, she knew him better than that. Her wings had returned with the setting sun and she just had to take a relaxing soar through the air. It had been too much to stay grounded for so many days. Far too much stress and...as much as Rayne hated it...walking.105
Her poor feet complained greatly of it. Not for the endless trek, but because she had been placed with Marin behind her the entire time. The blasted dwarf deserved a skew up is back for all the foul things he had said ever so muffled behind her back. Not only that, but he had been stepping on her heels since noon time and her poor ankles were chaffed and bloody from the hike. Perhaps she would have to wear those blasted shoes Eyrion kept insisting on...106
There were many troubles in the camp now. It had seemed so simple when they had set out on their journey. Now? Rayne sighed heavily as she pulled herself up into the branches to get a clear shot at the sky. Still, it was not the matter of Vannolyn and Rose that bothered her at the moment. The fact that Rose had been so angry and sullen over such a thing as her family had made Rayne think of her family. Perhaps there was more between Rose and herself that was the same after all...107
Taking to flight, Rayne sighed happily in the moonlight. It was a most peaceful night. A most wonderful time to just enjoy an aimless flight over the valleys. In the silvery moonlight, Rayne wondered what she looked like from below. Eyrion had claimed she looked like some strange bird, but he had been merely joking. Lost in her reverie as she floating on the currents over the terrain, she didn't notice what was gathering below her to strike.108
As Rose fed off the last drop of blood from her victim, which was a young elf naive enough to travel alone, she heard something not too far away. She dropped the corpse and wiped the blood from her lips. She walked towards the sound and noticed some Raven Wolflins looking up, about to take off in flight. She looked up and saw Rayne soaring not too far from the ground.109
Just as Rose looked down at the Wolflins again, they started to take flight. With that, Rose took off after the, clawing their weak points with just her bare hands and then sending a wave of black fire at them.110
To say the least, Rayne was quite surprised to see Rose, not to mention Wolflins that had been after her. She stared at Rose blankly and the Dragoness in turn stared at her without any sign of emotion at all.111
Rose landed back on the ground without a word with Rayne. Rayne followed and walked up to her. "Thank you. I had no idea that the Wolflins were watching me."112
Rose didn't turn around to meet her gaze. She was walking back to the corpse, but Rayne followed her. "You should know better than to travel alone. At least I watch out for myself when I’m alone, instead of day dreaming," she said in a matter of fact kind of manner.113
Rayne was speechless after that. She just continued to follow the girl until she came upon something that really quite surprised her. It was the corpse on an elf. A gash was torn in his neck and his eyes were still open. Blood soaked the top of his shirt. She watched as Rose burned his corpse with the black fire and then waited as it burned to ashes.114
When Rose had finished her business with the corpse, she headed back in the direction of the camp. She didn't exactly care if Rayne followed her, but if she was too busy day dreaming to pay attention to the danger her around her, maybe it was best.115
Rayne watched a moment as Rose walked off, then ran after her and touched her shoulder, feeling her flinch. "Rose, wait..."116
The night seemed to stretch endlessly and Vannolyn grew slightly restless in the shadow of the moon, as he kept watch over the camp. Eyrion slept soundlessly and Liara snored with a very faint, hardly noticeable, kind of growl or purr. As large and frightening a beast as she was, she acted in most cases like a harmless puppy. Quite reassuring, but it was something he was not use to. Though nothing was worse than Marin's constant sleep-talking.117
"Take the chicken, just leave the ale ... Mommy was the minstrel ... no I said leave the ale ..." the bumbling Dwarf seemed to mumble on for hours. But it was a quite humorous type of entertainment. Even so, it was the first night in so long that his mind was at peace, a calm that he relished.118
Where was Rayne and Rose, they had been gone too long, this wasn't safe. But he couldn't leave the others. Quickly he drew forth his bow and strung three arrows at the ready. His eyesight dead in the direction of the sound. Quiet then settled over, too quiet. He then heard footsteps approaching. Leaping to the trees, he hid within the shadows of night holding the bow at the ready. Whatever was to come would come no further if it be a threat to him or his companions.119
"What is going on with you and Vannolyn? You know if you fall in love now it might only hurt us in the end" Rayne said softly.120
"I know but I can't help it. It's too hard to explain" Rose pulled away. They continued back to the corpse lying on the ground, blood sat around it. Rose picked the body back up and pulled it closer to her mouth.121
"It came from over here, I heard a scream" Rose and Rayne froze as they heard a voice. Rayne grabbed rose and pulled her into the air. They watched and wait as two objects came running into their view. It was to dark for them to see with how far away they are, so they moved closer.122
As Rose and Rayne continued to hover above the trees, getting close enough to see what was down there, Rose saw that they were Wolflins, probably looking for their kin.123
Rose sighed and turned to Rayne. "It's just those mutts again. Let's go back to the camp and se if the others are doing alright."124
Rayne nodded and they flew the rest of the way back to camp.125
They landed on the ground and Vannolyn had almost hit them with his arrows. He was glad he had not, as he would have forgiven himself for hurting a dear friend and...His first love. He may as well admit it to himself.126
Rayne sighed as she looked up directly at Vannolyn. "Get some sleep, Vannolyn, Rose and I can take watch next."127
"There are Wolflins about." His statement didn't deter Rayne nor Rose as they waited for him to go and settle amongst the others.128
"Rose," Rayne turned to the dragoness only after Vannolyn was well away from them. "I'm sorry that made you upset yesterday. I'm rather boorish sometimes. I just thought that it wasn't a big deal with your father and everything...you know?"129
Rose didn't speak as she turned away from Rayne. Still, Rayne couldn't stop until she explained herself better, "My family is not much better...but..."130
Rose stiffened and closed her eyes, forcing herself to remain still and not let this get to her. She spoke quietly, almost deathly. "OK, so, your father was an evil fiend that would rape fairies across the world along with keep some Demonic whores on the side? Your father brutally beat and abused your mother? Was your mother killed after she sent you away only five years of age for your own protection?"131
The silence filled the air for a long while. Rayne was somewhat speechless, but she was desperate to make amends and so she continued.132
Gulping as she forced her own tears back, "No," Rayne walked around Rose until they were face to face again, "I don't know my father."133
"Then what could possibly make you think that you have anything in common with me." Rose spoke so venomously to Rayne that Rayne backed a few steps away.134
Taking a deep breath and turning to make certain that no one else was awake, she turned back to Rose, "My mother was one of those daemons you speak of."135
With that, Rayne turned and fled into the night. She soared swiftly away from Rose, knowing that she was far faster than any dragoness, even in dragon form. She stared down into the darkness on a wide patrol. Perhaps when she returned, Rose would not say anything.136
Rose walked over to the fire and sat down, ignoring the two sleeping men. She didn't know where Vannolyn went, but she didn't think he was asleep. She mulled over what had just happened. So...could Rayne be yet another half sibling of hers? When would she ever stop meeting more of her father's 'other' children? She was quite sick of it.137
Rose wondered when Rayne would return, though she hardly cared at the moment. Maybe Rayne's mother was a disgrace, but at least she had not lived a life full of violence even from when she was a small child. At least Rayne had her mother to take care of her, even if it wasn't the greatest of care. She had no one when she was a child. No one but a friend to take care of her.138
Rose laid her head onto her arms, shutting her eyes tightly. 'I will not allow myself to have a weak point again. I will not,' she thought bitterly.139
A few moments later, Vannolyn stepped out of the shadows and walked over toward Rose. He sat opposite of her and watched her a moment.140
Rose did not look up, but her hearing told her that Vannolyn had returned. She had neither the strength nor the courage to stare him in the face at that moment. Her heart, soul and mind were in turmoil and she absolutely despised it. She did not want to 'fall in love'. Not with anyone. It was far too dangerous to do. Plus, who could ever love some so tainted? Especially since she was the daughter of the enemy.141
Vannolyn wondered what Rayne and Rose had been discussing while he had taken his leave, but he left her alone. He felt that it would be best.142
Rose eventually rose her head and she stared straight into the fire. It was wear she wanted her heart to be. If she could live without a heart, she would gladly burn it so she could no longer feel the emotions that welled within her. They were just another weakness and she couldn't let a weak point show. However, it was getting so hard to hide...143
After a while longer, Vannolyn decided to speak. "Rose...sure you alright?"144
Rose did not look up at him. She didn't dare for fear her heart would beg for his arms and kiss again. "...I could be better."145
Vannolyn relaxed a little, feeling the tension that had taken him over dissipating. "Is there anything I can do?"146
Rose rested her head on her arms, which were on her knees. "No. I don't want to talk about it."147
Vannolyn looked about them for a moment. Rose was restraining so many things inside of her; she was liable to pop at any given moment. Eliane was curled up again Liara with her silvery fins flashing in the red embers and Marin had rolled off his mat again and was drooling all over himself. Not much in way of self-entertaining.148
The dawn was coming soon and Rayne had not yet returned from wherever she had flown. From the look on Rayne's face before she had fled, she may not even notice the day coming until it was too late for her. Liara snuffled a little and lifted her head to stare at Rose and Vannolyn.149
She snorted to clear her nose of some dust and gently slipped out from under Elaine’s sleeping form. She shook herself off and stretched. Her yawning yip made her sneeze and she wiggled her snout for a moment before she headed over to them. "Where's Rayne?"150
"She went off in a fit of tears," Rose answered.151
Liara was silent for some time, quite surprised with that answer.152
"Don't mention anything when she comes back. She won't be able to take that." Rose continued to star at the dying fire after she said that.153
They remained silent for some time and Rose just continued to stare out. 'She'll probably be back soon,' she thought to herself and closed her eyes again, laying her head in her lap.154
Liara stood and walked a little distance and looked back at the two solitary people. "I'm going to hunt for some food. I'll be back in a bit."155
With that said, Liara walked off quietly and left Rose and Vannolyn alone once more.156
Finally, Vannolyn moved to sit beside Rose. "You can't keep all of this locked up inside of you. Please...if only you want to talk or just to let something out...please do it."157
Rose did not look at him. She refused to. She couldn't handle much more of everything weighing her down. However, she could not let this get to her. She would continue to push it down as much as she could. Maybe one day she could have a good cry, but not here. Not around people she hardly knew and not near Vannolyn. He was the most dangerous to become close to. If she allowed him to comfort her again, feelings would get out of hand and everything would turn to chaos.158
During Vannolyn trying to get Rose to open up to him, Liara walked around, sniffing the air for any sign of food or Rayne. She was worried about her friend and wanted to help. She continued on the trek when she caught a whiff of something familiar.159
Rayne sat by the babbling brook. To a common eye she'd look like some sort of large bird or perhaps a obsidian statue. She didn't bother moving. The sun would arise any moment now and she knew she'd traveled too far to return before daylight. Blast her ever compulsive nature!160
"I should have never told her that," Rayne mused as she threw a rock into the waters about her. The boulder she sat one was cold, but smooth and it comforted her.161
"Perhaps it would have been better if she didn't know," Rayne mumbled again. Surely Rose would hate her now. Maybe not, but she'd treat her differently and Rayne hated it when people treated her differently just because of her most hated family.162
She wasn't related to Rose or anything. Her mother had born her before becoming a concubine for the enemy. Her mother had been a mortal then...a loving creature. Memories rose up as Rayne stood up suddenly. Her mother's death was still vivid before her eyes though it was a good several eons ago. It wasn't worth remembering Garalen.163
The sound of the water about her seemed to grow quiet as Rayne's ears picked up the distant calling...an echoing howl...164
Vannolyn stood up and stepped away a moment. What was the use at this point in time? Rose did not intend to speak anymore on this; not now, not for a while. But maybe it was because of how little she knew of her companions. Perhaps they were all still strangers in the eyes of one another. It was so in many ways with him and Liara, Eyrion, Marin, and Rayne's sister. Maybe he could bridge the gap, share a small part of his past so that Rose could feel a bit more confidence and trust than just blind passion for him.165
All the while as he stood staring off into the heights of trees, he felt Rose's thoughts swirling about. It was a storm of raging memories and fears that she was struggling to suppress. Perhaps sharing some small part of him would help the dragoness escape for a few moments.166
"Rose ..." he suddenly spoke, his back still turned, with an intriguing tone of voice.167
"Hmm ... what?" she answered some what worn and uninterested.168
"I ..." Vannolyn struggled, "I feel ... as if you do not know me..."169
"What do you mean?" she questioned suddenly curious. With a heavy sigh, the Dark Elf continued.170
"I feel as if you do not know me for what I truly am. True I have lived my life as a ranger. I have crossed the lands and know what lives upon it, both natural and otherwise. But there is more ... my past speaks otherwise ..." Vannolyn continued, now facing her while standing from a distance.171
Rose nodded in understanding; she was beginning to see that there was more to the Dark Elf than what was tangibly known. In curious fear, she desired to know more.172
"Do you know of the legends of the Weapons of Destiny?" Vannolyn asked with a heavy heart. Suddenly there came an echoing howl that shattered the peaceful calm of the morning.173
As if instinct, Vannolyn whirled in the direction of the howl and drawing forth a black sword, the sword about his waist for which he had never drawn. It was a magnificent blade, shining onyx against the morning sun and engraved with ancient Elvin markings for which few could translate.174
Vannolyn's hard expression showed no fear. He would protect his companions ... and his love ... from whatever lurked in the depths of this wretched forest. Though all that now remained was one question ... where was Rayne?175
Rose stood up just as quickly and scanned the area. The Wolflins were near, she knew that much. She hated it when interruptions occurred, but she was somewhat glad it had. She feared Vannolyn's attempt of getting her to open up to him. She feared that she would weaken towards him and show what she would never allow herself to show to people who didn't truly know her. This was just her wall. Her personality...It was different.176
Rose glanced at Vannolyn and caught a glimpse of the sword he was holding. She took another look, not recognizing it as one of his usual weapons and saw the markings on it. So that was the blade he spoke of.177
She wondered of its importance. She wished to know more, since she had a large curiosity, as a child, but was afraid at the same time. She not only knew that if Vannolyn opened up to her, that she would in turn open up to him, but she also knew that he would see a part of her that she did not wish to show anyone.178
After a small pondering, Rose snapped her attention to the growling that had started and saw that the Wolflins were nearing the camp. She called upon black fire and it floated around her hand in hot wait of the little mutts. They were so easily taken down anyway, so Rose had no worries.179
Vannolyn took notice of Rose getting ready. He seemed to keep forgetting that she could handle herself, but it was just instinct for him to assume that he protect. He wondered vaguely how she had become so skilled in combat. He also wondered about her past and what she was about to say when she had started to cry for the first time he had ever seen. However, such thoughts would have to wait till the enemies had been vanquished.180
The first Wolflin's head popped out between the trees a good distance away. It's long, pointed snout wiggled slightly as it looked about for prey. A long black tongue lolled out of his opened mouth and several jagged teeth glittered in the rising sun. The sun was coming up behind Rose and Vannolyn as the Wolflin emerged into the small clearing.181
It's lithe legs were coated in a shaggy fur that had become matted to its body like a rug. At first, Rose thought there was only one until several wolfish heads slowly followed their leader out into the open. Their talon feet were quite large and their black, glittering eyes stared at their prey. Tails tucked securely behind them like flags, the Wolflins charged towards them.182
Vannolyn took off towards them, leaving Rose behind in a somewhat bewildered state. Was that elf insane? Shaking it off, Rose ducked as a Wolflin careened overhead and into a thick tree trunk a short distance away. It didn't get up.183
The snarling mob of black, grey and brown Wolflins were scattered about in a disorganized circle about all of them. The noise had awoken Eliane and she sat with her bow ready. Until daylight, her fins would not disappear. Marin, on the other hand, to Rose's disgust, lay undisturbed on the ground.184
While Eliane could at least keep the Wolflins at bay until the sun rose up over the tree line, Rose was more concerned of destroying them than simply defending. Wolflins were not known for backing down from a fight.185
Three of the Wolflins had broken off from attacking Vannolyn and they prowled over to her. One before her, and the other two on each of her sides, she waited for them to pounce. And as such stupid creatures were apt to do, they did. She ducked as the first one came overhead and grabbed the creature's back leg. She flung him about like a rag doll, knocking the other two in the process before sending the dog-like creature careening out of sight over the treetops.186
Rose could feel an evil laughter bubbling up inside of her. Was she actually enjoying this?! Distracted for only a moment, a Wolflin caught her as it bounded into her chest. Rose tumbled to the ground with the heavy weight firmly on her chest. She could hardly breathe.187
It's yellowed teeth and foul breath made Rose wrinkle her nose in disgust before she bit down on the foreleg of her attacker. The Wolflin was so surprised, it leapt back, pulling Rose a short distance as it tried to pull its foot from her. His retreat released Rose enough to lash out with the horns of her wings and slash the creature from pointed south to eye.188
The little mutt yipped in pain and snapped as her wings came about for a final strike. The blows caught the beast in his sides and tore his belly open.189
Rose turned about to look at the havoc about her. About twelve Wolflin bodies lay about them, a few peppered like porcupines with arrows, a small circled of them surrounding the now exhausted Vannolyn, and the scattered remains of those she had kill. The stench grew by the second.190
Rose called upon her black fire once more and shot at the few surrounding Vannolyn. Their fur caught fire and they were burnt to ashes before they could give much of a reaction. Vannolyn took out the last few with his sword.191
After the fight was over, the sun had already risen and everyone woke, except for Marin, who was still talking in his sleep.192
Eyrion sat up and yawned and looked around him, surprised that this had gone on and not woken him. He looked over at Rose and Vannolyn, who were staring at each other rather intensely. He wondered why, but didn't care to ask, as he was still quite tired for some reason.193
Rose and Vannolyn were having a conversation through telepathy, though Rose found it hard to keep up the eye contact. 'So...what is it about that sword? Or anything for that matter? What exactly were you going to tell me? An old legend or something about your past?'194
Vannolyn stared back at the beauty before him and started to answer her questions in her mind, as he noticed Eyrion waking up and did not wish to share anything personally with anyone other than Rose. 'The sword is one of the scared swords in the legend I was going to tell you about. I was going to tell you both about the legend and about my past. However, I would rather not discuss it now. I would rather while we're alone.'195
Rose was satisfied with his answer for the moment, but she now wondered where Liara and Rayne were. They had not come back and they had both left a good few hours ago. She wondered vaguely if Rayne was alright. She also wondered if Liara had managed to find her.196
Back at the brook, Rayne felt her wings disappearing, and sighed. She didn't know how she was going to get back now, and she was still upset about the conversation with Rose. The howl she had heard wasn't Liara's, and so she felt worried for her friends, but helpless to do anything about it. A couple tears dropped into the water below her, and then she put her hands over her face, and wept silently.197
After a few minutes, Rayne felt a gentle breeze lift the tips of her hair, and soft fur brush against her arm. Liara had arrived. She didn't say anything, just sat next to her, gazing into the stream. If Rayne had looked up, she would have seen the Wolvic's massive eyes were moist with concern and sympathy for her dearest friend. After a few minutes, Rayne felt a breeze pick up, and in it she heard a quiet, sweet song. The song grew a little louder, and calmed Rayne’s nerves, making her rather drowsy. She choked back the last of her tears and leaned back, finding Liara's warm belly to lean upon. She closed her eyes and was lost in the lovely song that was like a light, sweet honey to her mind, eyes, and muscles. The song ended, and Rayne slept.198
Liara gently picked up the sleeping Rayne, and cradled her in her paws, as she leapt into the sky.199
Rayne awoke as they were flying. "Liara..." Rayne whispered into the young Wolvic’s ear from her perch. "I don't wish to go back yet."200
Liara didn't answer her as a sudden gust of wind shoved them to the side. "Wind's picking up," growled Liara.201
Rayne sat up and looked about. From her perch just behind Liara's front shoulders, she could see the land below easily, but it always felt better when she flew instead of rode. "I don't want to return to the group yet, Liara," repeated Rayne as she peered down to see where she could slide off without injury, "I much prefer to be alone at the moment."202
Liara ignored Rayne as the winds continued to pick up. Rayne frowned at the forced silence the Wolfic was giving her. Well, if Liara would not speak to her, though there was not much to be said anyway, she would just deal with it herself. Rose did and she seemed perfectly fine...mostly.203
The winds were forcing Liara lower and lower to the treetops and Rayne saw her moment come. She slipped of the warm fur of her friend's back and disappeared into the treetops. It was here that she had come from after all. Her first home had been the trees and she was quite used to hiding within them.204
Liara felt Rayne's presence leave, and noted where she had disappeared into the treetops with a frown. She didn't like leaving such a valuable friend to fend for herself, especially with the coming weather. However, Liara decided to let her be. If the girl wanted to be alone, alone she would be, she could be quite stubborn sometimes. Anyways, they weren't too far off the campsite for Rayne to find them if she needed help, or whenever she was done doing whatever she was doing.205
What Liara was really worried about was these awful gusts of wind that were brewing. The winds that were making it difficult for the Wolvic to fly carried with them a faint odor of something dangerous, menacing. Even Liara with her awesome sense of smell could barely detect it. But it was there, nonetheless. Most likely it was danger of the brewing storm, which promised to be horrendous, but Liara wasn't sure that was it. In any case, she had better get back to the others, and bring them to the cave she had spotted, so they could get out of the storm. It was going to be a long night.206
The Wolvic landed just after a rather sudden gust and dust scattered about, sending Marin heels over head with it. Everyone else turned their heads away to defend themselves against the shower of ashes and dust. "Watch it," grumbled Marin as he picked himself up.207
"There is something menacing coming this way," Liara spoke to Vannolyn.208
The dark elf nodded quietly and looked about in thought for a moment, "I saw a cave not far off where we can wait for it to brew over." Liara left Vannolyn and Rose alone as she turned about to try and help the others break camp. The winds were getting more and more vicious by the minute.209
The winds changed direction once more and Liara picked up Rayne's scent in the next gust. Her friend may not be far away, but it certainly puzzled her why she was acting the way she was.210
Rayne hung from a rather high tree branch for a while and stared blindly before her. She couldn't keep hiding out like she was forever. Rose would just have to know the whole truth sooner or later. There were a lot of things that Rayne knew that had unsettled many of her old friends. Even Eyrion was sometimes peeved at her knowledge. Marin often called her a busy-body or snoop.211
Sighing heavily Rayne dropped to the forest floor and looked about. The Wolflins that had been about earlier were no doubt dead by Rose and perhaps Vannolyn and Eyrion. That meant that the darker powers would soon realize this spare section of land had nothing of their own on it. Rayne didn't want to be about when they did come, but she really didn't want to go back...not just yet.212
The wind shook the trees overhead and she looked up. It was getting far worse than she thought it would. The rising sun was all ready being covered in the darkening gloom above. Hopefully Liara had made it back to the campsite. Taking a moment to decide what she ought to do, Rayne decided she'd better make a quick shelter to ride out the storm in. There would be no way that she'd make it anywhere soon in any case.213
Rose felt rather helpless as she watched all of the chaos with trying to pick up everything and pack away the sleeping bags and such. She had never bothered with such things and did not know how to put them up, nor how to take them down, so she just stood there wand watched.214
Vannolyn was helping Eliane take down her tent and collect fire wood, while Liara and Marin were pack away the larger and heavier supplies and Eyrion was packing away sleeping bags and collecting up the packs for everyone to carry. Rose just stood there and watching, not knowing what else she really could do.215
When it was time to go, they followed Liara to the cave and went deep inside. It was dark inside and they soon decided that they were back far enough to be able to light a fire. So, there, they set up their equipment again while Rose was near the entrance, watching the storm rage about the trees. It was her father's doing. She could feel it.216
After all was set, there was a group count and they noticed that Rose seemed to be missing. Vannolyn, worried more than anyone, approached the entrance and saw her there leaning against the cave wall, turned towards the storm. She was completely still and seems to be just like a statue. He approached her and stood by her side. He knew that she had already felt her presence though. "Everyone was wondering where you were. Are you alright?"217
Rose did not look at him, but instead continued to look out into the rage of wind and rain, wondering why Rayne had not yet come back and mulling over the fact that maybe she did not want to face her again after what had been said last night. Rose understood that. It had happened to her before as well. Perhaps it was shame or fear. Perhaps she was afraid that Rose would give her a harder time or even pity her. However, she never pitied anyone and she did not like to be pitied herself.218
After a long silence, she answered Vannolyn's question. "As fine as I can be. Just wondering about things..."219
Vannolyn wondered if her past still haunted her and if she would be willing to talk with him that night. "Perhaps you should come back with everyone. They are wondering where you are and probably me as well now."220
Rose did not make a move. "You can tell them that I'm fine. I'm just here by the entrance, keeping watch. I don't really feel like being surrounded by anyone as of yet."221
Vannolyn looked out at the storm also for a moment. He worried for Rayne and hoped that she would be alright. However, he was concerned for Rose's mental state. He knew that Rayne would be OK by herself because he knew that she had probably already built a shelter by now, so his big concern was the woman beside him. However, he decided it would be best to go back and inform the others of Rose's safety and then possibly talk with her later. It was about time he should start where he left off the night prior. Perhaps when everybody had gone to sleep. He knew by now that Rose rarely ever slept. It was usually close to morning before she did, since vampires were night creatures and she was one herself.222
So, Vannolyn nodded to his love and went back deep into the cave to check on the others and tell them that Rose was safe.223
The shadows of a cave, Vannolyn was right at home. Trudging through the must filled tunnels, he took note of the natural formations. Beautiful stalactites and stalactites covered the floors and ceiling of the cave. He could see the faint traces of a sparkling luminescence upon the smooth rock formations.224
He came upon the group now where the fire burned lightly in still air of the small cavern. Eliane and Liara slept soundlessly, and Marin twitched and snored as he periodically mumbled meaningless phrases in his sleep. Only Eyrion was awake, polishing his sword in front of the fire. Vannolyn smiled; maybe it was that elf was misunderstood. For what it was worth, he would give him a second chance.225
"I see you're back, so where's your little girlfriend?" Eyrion spoke carelessly as Vannolyn approached, paying no mind as he continued to polish the blade.226
"What is to you?" Vannolyn replied flatly227
"Nothing ... just wondering, don't want to leave anyone behind right?" Eyrion returned in a conversational tone.228
"Right, she is fine ..." Vannolyn answered, mulling over the tension that had grown between the two of them the past days. "I've been meaning to say something ..." Eyrion now lifted his head and turned his attention to the Dark Elf. "I have misjudged you ... There is little that we two know of each other, and I was too quick to judge. I too have my faults, and should realize to ridicule for someone under such pretenses would be a strike of hypocrisy against me."229
Eyrion nodded in response, now standing up to give the Vannolyn his full attention.230
Vannolyn continued, "I wish to start a ‘new with you, let us have a new beginning with two of us."231
Eyrion watched intently for many moments considering his words, never letting his eyes slip from the Dark Elf's gaze. He smiled, and then replied, "We are elves, are we not supposed to stand together?" He extended his hand.232
"Too true ... friend." Vannolyn replied with a warm tone, and gladly shook the hand.233
Eyrion then shook his head lightly and giggled slightly, "Go now, see that your lady is alright."234
"You are a good man, Eyrion." Vannolyn stated with honor.235
"And you as well, Vannolyn." Eyrion returned the same respect. The two elves nodded to each other and parted ways as Vannolyn returned down the shadowy tunnels to entrance of the cave, hoping to find Rose once more. He had now made peace with his distant kin, all that remained was to soothe the heart of his distraught love ... and share a secret for which few knew.236
Eyrion slept heavy for a bit he had many things going through his mind, many about the group. He was deep into a sleep when he came across a vision. This one was light and showed him glorious things to come, it showed him a bright day and him and Rayne together, along with Marin. Where the others were he didn't know but he woke up with a smile and fell back to sleep. Marin stayed awake watching the cavern just to make sure nothing unusual happened.237
Rose still watched the storm raging outside. She was now sitting down, leaning against the same wall. She wondered about a lot of things, now fully giving into all of her thoughts. They twisted and turned through her head like a hurricane. Millions of questions concerning Vannolyn; at least ten or more are involving Rayne; even more about her father and especially about Rayne's mother.238
However, what was really bothering her at the moment was mostly Vannolyn and memories. The past events in which Rayne forced her to reveal...Those memories were so painful. Yet, not even that could top the confusion she felt towards everything to do with Vannolyn.239
She kept seeing the image of his comfort and him leaning in close and touching her lips with his. It kept playing over and over in her mind no matter what she tried to concentrate on. Every time she saw him, it was so hard to restrain from flinging herself into his arms and just letting her entire self show. Plus, there were so many questions in her head about everything.240
Why was Vannolyn so attracted towards her? What had she done to lead him on? Why did he have any interest even after he found out she was the daughter of the enemy? He knew nothing about her, so how could he love her, if that was even what it was? How could she trust such a thing or him when he could just be leading her on himself? How could she truly know if he was being sincere in his advances? How did she know that this was not just another one of her father's schemes to try to finally either, kill her or take control of her? Those were just a few questions in her head and most were because of her insecurities. She did not even want to begin to think about how she felt towards him. If she really was starting to...fall in love with him.241
Rose closed her eyes, trying to wipe that one thought away. 'Anything but that...Anything. Even lust...I would rather it be lust...' While she had her eyes tightly shut, not even noticing the wind changing again and bringing the rain on her, soaking her completely, she heard footsteps.242
Rose opened her eyes, now completely drenched, and waited. She knew it was Vannolyn after all. He always seemed to be so worried for her...but she could handle herself. He should know that by now.243
He saw her there, standing against the mild wind and gentle rain. So beautiful, and yet in so much pain. He did not understand why, but maybe sharing a bit more of him would help her escape the tribulations of the world for at least a mere moment. Vannolyn came to stand next to her.244
He turned and spoke softly, "Rose?"245
"Hmmm ... yes?" she replied serenely calm.246
"I wish to tell you a little more about my past ... my heritage ... and where I come from." Vannolyn tried once again.247
Rose gazed and listened intently.248
"My past, my people, the Dark Elves ... There is a legend that is as old as time." Vannolyn, drew forth the elegant, magnificent black onyx sword with the ancient Elvin inscriptions that he wore about his waist.249
"This blade is one of three sacred blades held by the ancient heroes of my kin. About three thousand years ago, two Dark Elves, brothers at that, settled a concealed valley on a plateau bordering the Sunless Lowlands and the high peeks of the north. Andor and Ragma, those were there names. Names now considered sacred words amongst my people. Andor carried a pair of black onyx dual swords and Ragma carried a double-bladed black onyx sword-staff. Together they had found their new home, their new place of acceptance. Side-by-side, they constructed the great Temple of Destiny. A shrine of hope, a symbol of to future generations, and the sacred words by which they lived.” Vannolyn paused momentarily and continued.250
“‘Your destiny is not written251
Your path is your own252
Fate is bound to your will253
The Gods will guide, but not control254
Destiny is not what you255
It is what you strive256
Trust your heart and destiny will be yours’ ”257
Vannolyn let the words hang for a moment, Rose stared intently in awe and wonder not knowing what to say but only wishing to know more.258
Vannolyn continued, “Soon there after, they returned to the valley with their clan and created a new home for all. Peace had befallen their new home, and it would remain so for a thousand years longer … Then came an emergence once more, an army of a thousand orcs had destroyed the village, killing men, women, and children, and all had perished … except one. He had no name, for the legend tells of none. He traveled to the Temple of Destiny, and awoke the dual sword of Andor and set out to seek revenge upon the orc king. For ten years traveled the lands, smiting evil in his path, crushing all the Lords of Darkness, defeated the Four Shades of Death, and then traveled to the Skull Kingdom … to face the orc king. There he overcame another army of orcs. Amazing he was, unstoppable, all powerful, as if … he were a god. But no he was of flesh and blood. He descended the Canyons of Dis, passed through the Mountains of Chaos, crossed the Valley of Graves, and traversed the dreaded Palace of Callagawn. It was here he found the orc king, but it was not what he had thought, imagined, even all his greatest horrors … the orc king … no … his brother.”259
Rose’s eyes filled with intent, she wished to know more and continued to listen to the legends. Vannolyn could see that she was escaping the present troubles, just as he hoped. So he continued.260
“It was there in the Valley of Graves, the final battle; the Siblings of Fate would battle to see who be strongest. His brother, also known without name, held forth the sword-staff of Ragma. There on the battlefield the two felt the great spirits engulf their souls, becoming symbionts, giving strength for this final battle. I was a horrific duel, each parrying and attacking, storms raging, shades cheering, a calamity for which there was known to soothe. In the final moments the Dark Elf stood over his brother bearing the other’s weapon reading to strike … but he didn’t, he did not kill his brother. In a savage final attempt the defeated brother tried to strike from overhead. Throwing the swords of Andor, they pieced the dark brother’s heart leaving him dead upon the floor of the valley.”261
Vannolyn paused so that Rose could take in all that had been shared, the continued once more.262
“There after, the victor carried his dead brother back to their home, retracing his path. There he buried in the tomb of Andor and Ragma, sealing the tomb. The Dark Elf left and did not return, he had found his place of acceptance somewhere in the vast world beyond … Legend had it that he returned some one hundred years later, so that he could rest in peace with his brother. They were known hence forth and forever as the Knights of Destiny.”263
Rose was in a dazed wonder, she did not know what to say or where to start. But before she could speak, Vannolyn continued once more.264
“Some four hundred yeas passed and the Dark Elf clans had now made their homes in the highland forests of Man, it was a time of prosperity and the legends of old were beginning to fade once again. As fate would have it, another young sole stepped forth named by fate … his name … was Andor. A reincarnation of the former Knight, but sought to know the truth of what had befallen the nameless hero that had traveled to a distant land. Reawakening the Swords of Destiny once more, the dual swords of Andor, he set out to find this lost land. Retracing the path of the Knight, he spoke with the spirit and found the way to lost land … the land of the ancients. Andor traveled to this lost land and found that Dark Elves still inhabited this land, keeping to the traditions of old. It seemed fate would have it a time of peace once more …”265
Vannolyn paused once more, collecting himself, and begun once again.266
“1500 years of history were lost in a terrible struggle in the land of the ancients, our kin know nothing of what had befallen Andor, but all had wished to know. The prosperity of the Dark Elves had declined and now they lived as separate clans across the forests of the lands. My great grandfather came across the legendary blades traveling the expanse of the Valley of Graves, deep within the Palace of Callagawn, he was an adventurer. He returned home to forest high lands of Man; they were sacred heirlooms kept amongst our family. For three generations we cherished the blades of legend … One bright afternoon, I, and my brothers Alexian and Corrin, set out on a five day journey to reach to shores of Innobane Lake for spring fishing. Upon our return, our homes were in ruins, and upon a mounted spear, in the body of my father … was the flag and crest of the orc armies. They had returned to seek revenge once more.267
Vannolyn breathed heavily, and continued to speak.268
“Within the ruins of our home, the Swords of Destiny had remained untouched. Corrin, the oldest had decided that we would now follow in the footsteps of the old Knights of Destiny. Corrin was to seek out the orc armies in the Skull Kingdom bearing the sword-staff of Ragma, Alexian was to go in search of the lost land of the ancients and seek out the mysterious fate of their people bearing one of the dual swords of Andor, and I was charged with finding the lost valley and the Temple of Destiny. It was said that it contained writings that completed the legend of old. Bearing the sword of Andor, I was to find out the lost secrets of the Knights of Destiny. This is my charge, and this is why I have traveled the lands as a ranger for so many years ... and why continue move forward ... I will not fail my brothers."269
Vannolyn held forth the onyx blade, letting Rose hold it in her hands. Rose gazed into the reflection of the dark blade, running her hands across the Elvin inscriptions. She turned to face him once more. The night had nearly passed, it would be day soon. She smiled and began to speak her thoughts.270
"...That is truly a legend that I could only ever see being in a fairytale...There is a legend to go along with...the 'Dark Lord' as well..." she fell silent for a moment.271
Vannolyn nodded in agreement. "Yes, it is a long tale...I only gave the briefing."272
Rose looked at him again. "I'm not sure what you have seen in your years of travel...I don't even have any idea what age you are, but I know I have seen some horrific things....and most of it is because of the evil blood running through me."273
Vannolyn looked at her, interested now in what she had to say.274
Rose looked up at the ceiling of the cave. "There is a legend of old about a great Demon Lord with the blood of the evil Dragon race...Shadow Dragons. You have seen my transformation. That is what a lot of them look like. I suppose you could say I take more after my father than my mother..."275
Vannolyn continued to watch the beauty before him, unable to really see her as evil after all she had done and said. She seemed more ashamed of her father than anything. With good reason too.276
Rose continued after a moment of recollection. "The legend goes like this...A great Demon Lord with the blood of the evil Dragon race born last of is clan and one of the five kings of Demons would have the power to take over the world. However, many years shall pass before that power engulfs...It must be with the help of a child born with his power and abilities. The middle child of all of his children. A child that resembles him more than her mother."277
Vannolyn's eyes widened a little, knowing all too well that she did have the great power of the dark lord.278
Rose continued after she let that sink in. "After she has maintained through trials and her power has grown mighty, the evil in her heart will fully take over and she will serve at her father's will."279
Vannolyn stared at her in awe, wondering if what she said could be true. Could she be the daughter that would serve as evil took over? ...She had seemed to enjoy that fight with the Wolflins.280
Rose stared straight ahead of her for a long time. "...So, that's my legend...My life seems to follow this damned thing quite well and I really hate it. I don't want my life to be controlled by fate. I want to control my own life. If I can help it, I will never let this happen. I will not turn into..." she cut herself off and fell silent.281
Vannolyn felt the need to make some kind of physical contact with her. He placed his hand on hers, which was now at her side. "I will help you any way I can."282
Rose looked over at him with eyes like an innocent. Her fear was coming back ten fold, so she decided to get everything out in the open. "...Why are you so attracted to me anyway?"283
Vannolyn was caught off guard by this question and thought on that for a moment.284
Then, Rose walked over to face him. "You must have some kind of attraction to me to always want to be near me and get me to open up. There must be something that had happened...I never tried to hint at anything at all, so I don't understand it. You know almost nothing about me and yet you are so willing to just...do this. Be...in love? Is that what it is? Or is this some kind of lead on? Perhaps it might be another trick my father is pulling...In any case, would you care to answer some of my questions?"285
Vannolyn stared at her, only knowing what he felt and what he wanted to share. "I will answer anything you ask of me, if that is the only way to get you to trust in me."286
Rose closed her eyes and thought. "...Well, I have a lot of questions. I also have a lot of insecurities. I also think that it is useless for you to feel this way for me when we could never be together anyway..."287
Vannolyn pushed himself off from leaning on the wall and looked into her eyes. "Why is that?"288
Rose stared into his as well. "Didn't you tell me that you had a mission to do? I have my own goals as well and promise to keep. When this journey is over, if we come out of it alive, you will continue searching for this Temple you spoke of, correct?"289
Vannolyn thought about that and then nodded. He vowed that he would. He could not fail his brothers.290
Rose closed her eyes once more. "Well...do you honestly think I will be coming along? I have a promise to keep, as I told you before. I promised my closest friend in this world that I would return after this. I also promised her that I would not give up, ever. And I won't, but I can't possibly have any hope in this because it is impossible. We have separate lives. You have your duty and I have mine."291
Vannolyn stayed silent. Why had he not thought of that? Of course she would want to return home after this was finished. She had made a promise. So, how would this work when he had his own destiny?292
Rose waited a moment for him to mull over this new information and then continued. "That aside...I would appreciate it if you answered the questions I had asked. How could you be in love with someone you barely know anything about? The enemy's daughter at that. Would you continue to love me if I told you everything there was to know about myself? It is not very easy to find someone who will love you unconditionally no matter what you have done...Can you do that? Can you get past the maze to my heart?"293
Rose waited a moment and then she spoke again, but this time in the form of a little riddle that was not so hard to figure out.294
"There is a feeling in my heart295
that I am afraid to reveal.296
Something that fills me with passion,297
an emotion strong and real.298
Something I tried to keep buried,299
but now seems to be controlling me.300
Longing for a kiss, longing for a touch,301
for a voice that sounds so sweet.302
Something inside has been stirred;303
the longing of my heart.304
But with all the chaos and painful memories,305
I might be torn apart.306
There is a key to my soul,307
but strong barriers have been raised.308
If you truly want my heart,309
find your way through the maze.310
Prove that I can trust you."311
Rayne sat in her shelter quietly pondering many things. She thought mostly of the group and when she wanted to return she wasn't sure yet, she still thought something was wrong. She poked at the fire lit in front of her watching the flames fling into the air. Then she stood quickly spread her wings and took off. She finally decided that she wanted to return to her friends and reunite.312
Eyrion lay quietly next to Marin; Marin sat poking the fire with delight. "Watch this" He whispered to Eyrion poking the fire. "What?" Eyrion sat up. Marin poked the fire and flames flew into the air, he laughed loudly. "You seriously need to get your head checked." Eyrion laughed. "No, it's fun. Here you give it a go" Marin handed Eyrion a stick. They both sat there poking the fire watching the flames fly into the air. "You two are not acting your age at all" Elaine smirked. "Oh, you know you want to poke" Marin winked. "Get a life" She threw a small rock that hit him in the arm. "Hey now" Eyrion laughed as Elaine lay on the ground falling asleep.313
"Hey i wonder what would happen if we poured some of this stuff on it" Eyrion grabbed a black pouch full of black dust. "Let's try" Marin grabbed a little tossing it on the fire. A loud BANG! Rang through the cavern and woke every one. "THAT WAS...” Marin was interrupted. "You guy's are so going to get it in the morning" Elaine jumped up walked over and hit Marin on the head. "Ouch, why always me?" He whimpered. "Because your the smallest" Eyrion laughed. "Hey now, I will beat you up any day" Marin pushed him. The two of them sat and pushed each other and threw dust in the fire for hours more. Than a loud noise came form out side the cavern, it sounded like wings. Eyrion leapt up and grabbed his bow stringing two arrows they saw a shadow in the moonlight coming closer.314
As Rose was waiting for Vannolyn to begin explaining, the sound of wings came from outside and they both got ready for a battle, until they realized it was Rayne.315
Rayne landed on the ground and glanced at the two, then walked straight past them, not wanting to stay long enough for Rose to question her. She was sure she had interrupted something anyway and so she just continued on into the cave. The only reason she was able to find it was because she could feel the presence of her closest friends and also heard a few bangs. She wondered what the others were up to.316
Eyrion was about to hit the intruder when he realized it was Rayne. He smiled and gave her a hug. "What happened? Where did you go?"317
Rayne smiled weakly and shook her head. "It's not important right now...I'd rather not think about it...Do you have an extra sleeping bag? The wind was strong and I'm really tired from trying to fly in it."318
Eyrion nodded and set one up for her. She was fast asleep before Eliane had even realized what was happening. She smiled at her sister and went back to sleep. Eyrion and Marin decided to keep their playing with the fire a little quieter.319
Back at the entrance of the cave, Rose looked back at Vannolyn. "...Well?"320
"Rose ..." he spoke gently "I have your answer..."321
He trailed off and Rose waited for him to speak once more. Vannolyn cleared his throat, and begun again.322
"From a life of shadows323
Do strange things arise324
As from the heart comes325
Passionate emotions do comprise326
Burry not the feelings327
Lying deep within thine328
As the light illuminates all329
And express feelings to shine330
The lull captures the heart331
Be either wicked or pure332
But the heart will never know333
Without revelation to cure334
My love does hold the key335
To the maze of locked doors336
Just trust your heart337
And destiny will be yours338
My destiny may be bound339
For my oath to a brother340
But the oath my heart341
Now belonging to another342
Through time grows trust343
For trust abound new344
A gift given to someone345
For I will always stand true346
My trust is yours, and yours to remain347
And I shall face the trials of your trust, until my will hath lain."348
Vannolyn gazed hard and intently into Rose's eyes, as moments of hardened silence past with the growing storm. He spoke one final time.349
"Find me when you feel that you understand my answer."350
With that the Dark Elf disappeared into the black cave once more. Returning to the group, hoping to clear his mind. Pain welled within his heart, he had shared his most heavy burdens and still it seemed that Rose would not trust him. The shadows past as he made his way through the darkened cavern. In time, he thought ... in time.351
Rose closed her eyes and slid to the floor. He was really serious about this and she didn't know what to do. She thought over and over about his own riddle and she wondered for a long time if she could really let go and give him what few have ever earned. If so, would he truly be willing to accept everything he may learn about her? Would he be willing to pull her into his arms and kiss her again after she may tell him of the millions she had coldly slain?352
She didn't even notice the tears welling behind her eyelids as she continued to mull over this.353
From a life of shadows354
Do strange things arise355
As from the heart comes356
Passionate emotions do comprise357
Rose opened her eyes and stared up at the ceiling, thinking of the first few lines. "Even in shadows, a heart still feels...Love and passion is always there, no matter what you do to bury it..."358
Bury not the feelings359
Lying deep within thine360
As the light illuminates all361
And express feelings to shine362
"Don't bury the feelings that light your heart and soul...Express them openly because it is too much to hold within..." she said aloud, closing her eyes once more.363
The lull captures the heart364
Be either wicked or pure365
But the heart will never know366
Without revelation to cure367
"It does not matter whether you are tainted or pure. The heart still feels what it feels and it knows no cure."368
My love does hold the key369
To the maze of locked doors370
Just trust your heart371
And destiny will be yours372
Rose opened her eyes and thought about this for a moment. "Love holds the key to the maze of your heart...Trust in your heart and it will lead you the right way."373
My destiny may be bound374
For my oath to a brother375
But the the oath my heart376
Now belonging to another377
"My destiny is bound to my brother, but my heart is bound to you..." Rose stared blankly at the floor, feeling a whole lot of mixed emotions.378
Through time grows trust379
For trust abound new380
A gift given to someone381
For I will always stand true382
"In time, trust will grow...plentiful and complete...A gift given to you, I tell the truth." Rose was slowly piecing it all together. However, her heart was beating out of control and she was shaking. Not from the cold, but from the overwhelming fear and...something she dared not admit to that welled inside of her.383
My trust is yours, and yours to remain384
And I shall face the trials of your trust, until my will hath lain.385
Rose swallowed, thinking of the last few lines and shut her eyes tightly. "...I trust in you and always will and will face any test to gain yours in return until my will is...broken." Rose leaned her head against the wall, looking up into the black ceiling.386
She was tremendously afraid of this. She did not even ponder on this ever happening. She had not planned on what she would do or how she would go about it and she certainly did not think that she would grow such a strong passion for anyone either. She sighed and laid her head in her arms, drawing her knees up to her chest. "What am I going to do? This can't be happening..." She squeezed her eyes shut and hidden tears dwelled on her cheeks and fell onto her hands.387
"...I'm not ready for this. For love. How can I possibly trust that I will not be hurt in the end? How can I believe that this could ever work?"388
The turmoil grew and grew and she had no idea what she could do about it. The tears kept falling. She hated crying. "...If I were to let go...what would his decision be? I already know mine...I made a promise."389
Rose looked out into the storm, her eyes drying with only tear stains to remain. "And no one could ever come between my closest friend and I. I hold friendship closest to my heart. Before anything else." She laid her chin down on her knees. "...But this is but the second time that I have been loved so by someone..."390
The night storm continued to rage and she sat there for the longest time, wondering how she could make her decision and what it would be. She knew one thing. No matter what, she would keep her promise...But what would Vannolyn do? Would he come with her, or would he continue on his journey for his brothers?391
When dawn had finally come, Rose stood and walked back to the end of the cavern. One entire sleepless night had enabled her to make her decision. 392
Rayne awoke a short while before daylight, and she stretched languidly for a moment. Refreshed and a little more cheery with being so close to Eyrion, she felt far better than she had when she had let her mouth go too far. Of all the things to tell somebody, no one wanted to know about her life story. No. Not even Eyrion knew most of her past. Well...not even she knew it at times.393
Shaking her head away from the sullen thoughts, she got up and quickly set about making breakfast. It was obvious that her friends hadn't eaten very well since she had left. Marin's cooking was atrocious and Eyrion could make only boiled water and rice. Not exactly the best meals in the world.394
Before long, she had a delicious feast set out. She had even managed to catch something that she hoped Rose would enjoy. The tiny pixie-fairy might only be a snack for her vampiress ways, but it was still something...and Rayne wanted everyone to eat together today. She had a very important thing to say to them all.395
Eyrion might hate her for what she was going to do, but it was something that she needed to do now. Before anything else happened, it had to be resolved...at least for Rayne, it had to be.396
The smell of fresh, well-cooked food soon awoke everyone else, even Liara and Marin. Rose walked in on the camp just as Marin and Liara were battling over a strip of delicious looking bacon. Rose frowned at the chaos but didn't speak. She wanted to find Vannolyn and speak with him.397
As if the mere thought conjured him up, Vannolyn sat opposite her, slowly munching on some odd food that Rayne must have made. She moved to go to him, but Rayne got in her way. The annoying younger girl was becoming more of a compromising trouble-maker than anything else and Rose could feel her ire rising.398
"Rose," Rayne spoke swiftly as if she knew that Rose didn't want to speak with her. She kept looking about as if uncertain of what to say, "I wanted to make breakfast for everyone, but I know you don't eat like everyone else. But I did catch this little theif in one of our bags and I figured you'd like a snack or whatever it is you call it..."399
Rayne could feel the guilt of destroying the fairy's life, but she didn't think about it now. She wasn't innocent enough not to know that death came with everything in her life. "I wanted to tell you..."400
Rose looked down at the small delicacy for a moment as Rayne trailed off. She didn't continue and Rose looked up to see that Rayne was staring past Rose at something. Turning about, Rose saw something she had never seen before. At least not in real life anyway...401
A gigantic beast stood in between them and the entrance to the cave. It looked strangely cute. It's large, beautiful green eyes and long black eye lashes batted in a strange but hypnotic rhythm. It had a stubby round nose and two monstrously large buck teeth jutting out of its mouth. It was covered all over, from what could be seen, in soft brown fur. "Pisch," hissed Rayne. She stood in front of Rose.402
"Get away, brother," ordered Rayne as she glared up at the strange beast, "These are my friends and if you hurt any of them, I'll tell Mamma."403
Rose studied the creature a moment and then turned her attention to Rayne. She wondered what she had to say, but it would now have to wait. As did her talk with Vannolyn. How she hated interruptions.404
She watched quietly as the creature laughed. "Mamma? Isn't mamma dead, sister? What are you to do now that you can't run off crying to mamma, huh?" He grinned maliciously.405
Rayne stood her ground. "I mean it, brother. I will tell Mamma and she will not be very pleased with you at all. She might even devour you, since you know all too well that...I'm her favorite child." Tears welled, but she pushed them back.406
The creature kept chuckling in amusement and then decided to lash out and tried to hit Rose, just to see what Rayne would do about it. Rose in turn jumped over it's claw, losing track of what Rayne was doing.407
Rayne launched into the creature before anyone could stop her. Eyrion, Vannolyn and Marin readied their weapons and Eliane strung her bow. If they were to die, they'd go down fighting...whatever it was.408
Eliane stared in fascination at the creature and her half-sister. This was Rayne's half-brother? Then why did she not know of him? Rayne bit the creature on the nose, and leapt down its throat. The large blobby thing swallowed her whole.409
It giggled and laughed, wiggling about as everyone stared in complete horror. Rayne had willingly gone inside the thing. Suddenly, the creature stiffened and opened its mouth. From inside the creature stepped Rayne and a strange half-human-like creature. They were covered in filth, but they didn't seem damaged in anyway.410
"Now, brother," smiled Rayne as she looked at him again, "Momma has something to say to you."411
Rose raised an eyebrow and wondered just what was going on with Rayne and her 'brother'. She had no idea what was going on, but she did know that she still held the tiny fairy in the palm of her hand. She looked down at it carefully, knowing all too well that she would not be able to take such a young one's life. She would only do so if she was desperate and she had already had her fill of blood. She whispered to it carefully, telling it leave now or she really would make a meal out of the little thing. The little pixie fairy flew out in a hurry.412
After her good deed was done, Rose paid more attention to what was happening between Rayne and her brother.413
Marin and Eyrion stood quietly watching Rayne speak to her brother. They held their weapons high ready to strike just in case Rayne’s brother attacked. Rayne had a sharp angry look on her face while she spoke with her brother. Elaine pulled the arrow on her string back and quickly let it go. The arrow pierced the leg of the beast and he fell. Eyrion and Marin where the first out the cave followed by Elaine, then Rose and the rest of them. Rayne stood looking down at her brother who was whimpering. "We will meet again soon." Rayne rushed out the cave. They all retreated back down into the woods and along the edge of the out walls of the cave. They came to a entrance to what looked like a road. "Well that was weird" Marin slowly spoke huffing and puffing form their retreat. "Time for a drink" He smiled grabbing his water pouch. "What is it you have in there?" Eyrion smiled grabbing Marin's arm before the pouch reached his lips. "Just natural mountain water of course" Marin smirked rolling his eyes. "Let us smell" Eyrion snatched the pouch and sniffed it. "Brandy! You really are a drunken old fool" Eyrion laughed. "This is no mere brandy it's, well... it's good for you.. umm.. it has a good taste" Marin stumbled embarrassed.414
The others quietly set up shelters and went inside. Rose and Vannolyn were together in one, Elaine and Liara in another. Eyrion and Marin were stuck with Rayne. "Well it looks like it tis the three original hero’s united under one roof again" Marin sipped his brandy. "How exciting" Rayne said sarcastically. "Hey now we were a great team way back a few years ago" Marin reminded her. "Yes, but we also didn't have you most the time to watch to make sure you weren't hurt" Eyrion laughed. "Me? I think i watched you’re back most the time" Marin raised his voice. "Exactly because you were always hiding behind us" Eyrion teased Marin. "Hey, What? Um.. Who wants to bother with you right now" Marin plopped his butt on the ground and tried to make a fire. "Hey we still have a little powder left" Eyrion smiled opening the pouch. "Here toss some on when it gets warm" Marin rubbed two sticks together. "Ok ready" Marin quickly removed his hands as Eyrion threw the powder on the fireplace. A loud boom rang through the forest and their fire was lit. 415
"It is a beautiful thing" Marin gazed into the sky. "What the fire?" Eyrion looked deep into the fire. "No you simpleton, the stars" Marin giggled. "Right those to" Eyrion turned red. "I remember when we used to train together. You were the only one with blue hair and pointed ears in the town. I used to be taller, the tallest dwarf anyone had ever seen. I shrank a little but o well; we had those four challenges remember?" Marin quietly said still gazing into the sky. "Ah yes I remember, we almost tied. I was only 14 I think. The best swords man and bowman around" Eyrion smiled throwing a twig into the fire. "Than you left and went on you’re first journey to find your, sister? I think it was. Do you still have that ring?" Marin asked looking down at Eyrion’s Hands. "Yes my sister, than she vanished and you appeared and helped. Actually you saved my life. Yes the ring it is here" Eyrion reached into his pocket and pulled out the old gold and silver ring. "I remember it used to be so big" He smiled. "Yes, beautiful craftsmanship, elvish no doubt. What was it a year or two after that we meet Rayne, on your third journey. Oh, do you remember what the kid's used to call you?" Marin questioned with joy. "Yes, I think so, was it blueberry boy?" Eyrion smiled. "No it was something funny" Marin thought hard. "It was elvish candy, and then they would lick their lips" Eyrion laughed. "Yes" Marin joined in the laughter.416
"I wonder how been is doing" Eyrion looked up into the sky. 'The old blacksmith?" Marin asked. "He should be doing well, he was always a strong lad, and younger than I" Marin lay back. Eyrion now sat rubbing his hands near the fire. "The old times, I miss those" Eyrion still laughed. "Let's have a drink" Marin grabbed his pouch lying next to him. "Let's" Eyrion agreed. Him and Marin shared a drink and than fell fast asleep, they were the last two, every one else blew out their lights long ago.417
Meanwhile, there was still one couple that was still wide awake, staring silently at the fire in their shelter. Rose was trying to get up the courage to finally speak with him. It was far from an easy thing to do. She didn't like opening up that much and what she felt and what she knew that Vannolyn felt for her made her nervous and afraid.418
After a long while, she finally gained the courage to look into Vannolyn's eyes. "I think I understand the answer."419
Vannolyn looked up at the Dragoness slowly and waited for her to speak again and explain to him what she understood.420
Rose closed her eyes a moment and took in a deep breath, letting it out before she continued.421
"A heart lies deep into each of us422
and it feels every emotion there is423
No matter how dark and impure their life may be,424
they can still long for a sweet kiss425
Do not hold feelings buried426
let the light shine through427
Show what you feel and do it openly428
and it will be returned to you429
Though that lover may be wicked or pure,430
the heart still stands true431
It knows no cure for what it feels432
and her heart feels the same for you433
The key to her heart lies in yours434
it will open the maze to you435
but she must also trust in her heart436
and let it lead her through437
A destiny bound to a brother, but438
a heart bound to a lover439
she has a promise to keep as well,440
but feels love within her441
Trust is given freely to her442
yet she is still afraid443
she find it so hard to trust444
after how her life was made..."445
Rose closed her eyes a moment, deciphering the last part with just hr voice. "You are willing to trust me and try to earn my trust and love in return no matter what it takes...unless your will is broken first."446
Vannolyn continued to stare at her silently. She had gotten at least most of what he had said in his riddle. He wondered about the promise she had not really explained very well. He also wondered what her decision was...if she had made one at all.447
After a moment, she opened her eyes again and stared into his. She didn't know why, but she loved doing that. However, it just made her feel the need to be in his arms even more. "Vannolyn...I suppose I owe you an explanation of myself; my reasons for acting this way and...Why I hold the promise I have made and hold so dear because it seems that you do not fully understand."448
Vannolyn nodded. "You're right. I don't fully understand."449
Rose closed her eyes again and leaned back. "Starting now, I am going to tell you every single thing that I am thinking. I hope it makes some sort of sense because it's usually all in a jumble and it barely even makes sense to me."450
Vannolyn sat still and continued to look at her intently. "If you wish to, I would like that."451
Rose looked at him seriously. "Don't be so sure about that."452
Vannolyn made no response to that, though he wondered what she meant by it. "Go on."453
Rose slowly raised her head to the ceiling and lay down on the ground to get more comfortable. "You'll have to forgive me...I don't like making eye contact when I'm speaking of myself as personally as I plan to tonight. I hope you don't mind."454
"If it makes you feel more comfortable, then I do not mind at all," he responded.455
Rose closed her eyes and smiled. "OK...well, I usually do feel more relaxed when I don't look at the person when speaking my mind in this way. Right now, I am very nervous and am utterly afraid and you have absolutely no idea how hard this is for me."456
Vannolyn moved closer so he could look at her without being in her view. "Why is that?"457
Rose opened her eyes and stared straight up, knowing all too well that he was closer than before. "Because I am afraid of love. Of being close to someone and feeling the way I do. Your feelings for me overwhelm me tremendously, though at the same time, it makes me feel so wonderful...You have no idea how hard it is to restrain myself from jumping into your arms and letting you do whatever it is that you desire of me..." A blush had risen in her cheeks as she said that and she had to close her eyes again.458
Vannolyn was quite surprised by her answer, to say the least. He did not think the passion she felt was that strong. It seemed that she longed to let go and trust him, but could not, or would not, let herself do so. "...So, why don't you do that?"459
Rose opened her eyes once more and continued. "Like I said, I am afraid of this and I'm nervous...There are so many things that must be considered and you barely know a thing about me. How am I supposed to believe that you will truly love me no matter what? What will happen after the journey? Would we remain together or would we drift apart? You have no idea how afraid I am of losing this if I choose to gain it...I lost it once before when a friend of mine felt the same way you do now...I turned him away because I didn't feel ready and I'll never have the chance to be with him again..."460
Vannolyn took this in, understanding now why she seemed so reluctant to trust him and to let him love her as he so wished to. It made perfect sense for her to be afraid. Especially since she had no idea what the future would hold if they came out of this journey alive. She would not want to lose him, nor would he want to lose her. "What about this promise you have made, Rose? Why is it so important to you?"461
For this, Rose sat up and looked at him, looking about ready to burst into tears, even though he had no idea why she would be about to cry.462
Rose closed her eyes again and collected her thoughts. "Vannolyn, the promise I made is very, very special to me. It was made to a friend I've had since childhood. She means more to me than anyone else I have ever encountered in my lifetime. She is my sister, though not by blood, and yet a mother figure also...She is my mentor and also my teacher. I love her more than any friend I have ever had, but only as a friend. She has a mate and by now, probably three children to go with him."463
Vannolyn listened intently, very interested in what Rose had to say about her friend. For some reason, he found it intriguing.464
After a short pause, Rose continued. "She is one of the only people who has accepted me with wide open arms no matter what I chose to do or who I chose to kill...and I have killed millions."465
Vannolyn was shocked to hear that, despite the fact that he already knew that she had killed before. He had smelled blood off of her the night her and Rayne had disappeared and he had assumed that she went to feed. However, hearing that she had killed millions...It was somewhat unbelievable.466
Rose looked straight into his eyes. "Her name is Meridia. She is a Dark Fairy and a Blue Fairy with strong magical abilities that are driven by both her emotions and her mind. She is also a demigoddess."467
That shocked Vannolyn even more. He had thought that the Demi tribe of Gods and Goddesses were but a legend.468
"It was a gift from her lover. She has the power to destroy almost anyone on this planet. She could have destroyed me and saved lives, but she loved me too much to do so and just accept what I did, though never ever condoned it. She has taught me things that has saved me from self destruction because of the evil blood that runs through me...Also the reason why so many have died by my hand. I enjoyed it and only saw my faults much later...With both Meridia's and another's help. After I had the vision that drove me to find Eyrion, before I set out, Meridia swore me to a promise. A promise that I would return home after the journey and never ever give up on life or people around me."469
Vannolyn took in all of this information, now understanding why this promise meant so much to her.470
Rose continued. "That's why I will never break this promise. I owe so much to her. She has kept me sane through the years of my life and her good heart surpasses even the purest of people. I can never ever bring myself to break it. You have to understand that. She is one person that means too much to me. I will never ever let her down."471
Vannolyn nodded. "I can understand that. You hold friendship in high regards. Especially her's. She sounds like a very honorable woman."472
Rose smiled brightly for the first time he saw. "Yes she is and I would honestly love to bring you to meet her one day...I promised her I'd come back to see her children. She was still pregnant when I left..."473
Vannolyn nodded in understanding. "I see. She must be very happy."474
Rose nodded. "I'm sure she is. She has always wanted to be a mother..."475
After a moment of silence, Rose started to speak again. "Vannolyn...this will be the hardest for me to admit, because I've barely admitted it to myself yet, but..." Rose closed her eyes and turned her back to him. "I love you. I do love you, but it is just so hard for me to let go and just give in. You have to understand...It will take time for me to be able to fully open up to you. This was hard enough as it is."476
Vannolyn stood up and walked over to Rose, who was standing now as well, her back still turned. He reached out and took her hands into his. "I understand this. I will wait for as long as it may take. Rose...you are my first love. And I love you more than I ever thought was possible. All I wish to do is comfort you and let you know and feel that you are not alone. You can confide in me whenever you wish. I will always be here for you."477
Rose turned around and hugged him, closing her eyes and just enjoying the feel of his arms wrapped tightly around her waist. "I want to get to know you better. I want for us to spend time together...to grow more of a bond than just the passion that we feel. Without any more than that, the love we feel would eventually drift and fade. I know...I've been through that before as well."478
Vannolyn ran his fingers through her black hair, tipped with silver. "I think I would enjoy that. I would love to get to know you for who you truly are."479
Rose looked up at him. "That will only be possible while we are alone. I do not feel comfortable showing myself openly to the others...I'm not ready for that."480
Vannolyn nodded and smiled. "I understand that. I feel the same way. This will give us more of a chance to spend time together. Eyrion and Marin seem to be trying to get us together anyway just by giving us our own shelter."481
Rose raised an eyebrow and then after a moment, she sighed. "Figures..." Then she smiled. "In any case, I'm somewhat glad they gave us a shelter together because this gave me a chance to speak with you and get more things out into the open."482
Vannolyn nodded in agreement. "Yes. I'm glad as well."483
After that, Rose yawned, pulling herself away from Vannolyn and rolling out her sleeping bag. "I'm tired now though. I think it's time for some sleep. It will be dawn in a few hours."484
Vannolyn smiled and rolled out his sleeping bag right next to his beloved's. "I agree...It is also a little chilly, so we should share some body heat as well."485
Rose smiled and couldn't help but laugh. "You're just saying that to be closer to me."486
Vannolyn continued to smile and even chuckled a bit. "Maybe, but can you blame me for trying?"487
Rose lay down in her sleeping bag as Vannolyn did and they stared into each other's eyes. "No," she answered and then they cuddled into one another for the night.488
In the morning Marin and Eyrion awoke and quietly gatherd some fire wood. The started a fire and woke Rayne up, not bothering the two lovers. "The sweet smell of morning" Marin sniffed the air. "The best" Eyrion smiled. "You guys are weird" Rayne rubbed her eyes. "Yes well we enjoy being differnet" Marin took a seat on a log. Eyrion grabbed a stumb that was pulled form the ground and sat on that. "I missed you Rayne" Eyrion smiled looking up at Rayne.489
Rayne smiled back, almost blushing. "I missed you too, Eyrion."490
After a moment of just staring into one another's eyes, Marin started giggling. "Looks like we got another couple of lovers on the way..."491
Rayne turned away after that, a little annoyed, and started on breakfast once more. Today, she would tell Rose what she was going to before. She had to get it all out in the open.492
In the couple's tent, Rose was just waking up and looking at Vannolyn, eyes closed. She admired his features a while, also noticing his arm stretched out across her sleeping bag. She still had so many insecurities. She still didn't know if this was a good idea. She still also wondered about the future. She also still had so much more to tell him. Her past. However, she would leave that for another day.493
After a moment or two, Vannolyn opened his eyes, noticing Rose looking at him. He smiled and moved to unzip her sleeping bag while he unzipped his.494
Rose didn't seem to know what he was doing and that just made his smile widen. When their sleeping bags were unzipped, Vannolyn pulled Rose into his arms. She seemed a little surprised, but she did not fight it. They looked into the other's eyes for a while and then he kissed her for the first time in a few days.495
Rose was caught off guard with this, but she couldn't bring herself to say no. She just closed her eyes and enjoyed the moment for once, wrapping her arms around his neck. She felt a blush come to her cheeks as well. She wasn't used to this at all.496
When Vannolyn let go, he noticed the Dragoness' blush and he smiled again. "You seem so timid."497
Rose looked at him for a moment and then down at his chest. "Well...like I said, you don't know who I am inside, so maybe this is a start of seeing it...Though...we shouldn’t be giving into every urge just yet. We still need to get to know each other better."498
Vannolyn nodded. "Call it a treat for every now and then? A kiss while we're alone? We don't have to act like a couple around the others if you don't wish to."499
Rose closed her eyes for a moment and rolled over on her back. "I love the cool air in here..." Then she smiled and laughed a little. "That isn't a response to what you said though. I would like that more. When the time is right, I suppose we could reveal what we truly are to each other..." Then she looked at him seriously. "But keep in mind that I'm still not sure if this is wise...I don't know if it will work, so please don't suddenly assume that just because I feel this way and that you seem to be a friend with...privileges, that we will automatically be together in the future...Because that is not the case. We still have to decide what's going to happen after this journey...Well, more like you have to decide. I know what I'm doing and I hope you understand."500
Vannolyn nodded again and took her into his arms. "I do understand...but for now, can we just enjoy what we have in the present and deal with the future when it comes?"501
Rose closed her eyes and hugged him. "I'm sorry...I am always like this. Deep down...I am insecure and paranoid...Afraid and sometimes even reckless with my actions. You'll have to help me keep myself in check when it comes to that."502
Vannolyn smiled. "I would be glad to."503
With that, they rolled up their sleeping bags, as Vannolyn had showed her to do, and then walked out of their shelter to join the others.504
Eyrion and Marin whistled as they reached where they were sitting. "Look at them" Marin whispered. "How cute" Eyrion agreed. They sat and giggled while they ate their breakfast together. "SO how about you and Rayne?" Marin questioned him quietly. "Nothing why? You know the rules of being a time reader, if we sleep with another we loose our ability to read it. Also she is only a good friend" Eyrion whispered back taking a bite from his sausage. "Well you don't have to see into the future any more. Rose can't, you know why" Marin laughed. "No I must" Eyrion disagreed.505
Marin stood and left the breakfast spot followed by Eyrion, they disappeared into the mountain path. "Look at this" Eyrion shouted to Marin. "What? What is it?" Marin rushed over to Eyrion. Eyrion stood on a rock looking down into what seemed to be a small open valley, full of grass and cattle. "Cattle?" Marin questioned. "No the whole place, its beautiful" Eyrion smiled. "You.." Marin started. The sound of beating wings came into their hearing range. They ran to get cover behind a rock that was near the edge of the cliff. A shadow passed over them and than landed in the valley. "Is that a.." Marin paused. "Dragon yes" Eyrion interrupted. "But it's not big enough" Marin gazed down at the beast. "It's a different species they were created by alchemist back 100's of years ago. They are like a feathered dragon; then when old enough they loose their feathers and grow scales thicker than any ordinary dragon" Eyrion watched with excitement. "Why were they created?" Marin asked intrigued. "Well you see.." Eyrion took a breath. "Well you see, we needed them to be able to fly faster and do more damage than any ordinary dragon. We tried everything archers on dragons, everything, none of it worked. So we made these dragons that had a defense much greater than any known to this world, than we gave them bird parts to help them with the speed and maneuverability; then last you haven’t seen it attack. It shoots fire that is as hot as molten lava and they have those giant claws those help" A strange voice said from behind them. They both moved as fast as they could to get up, and drawing their swords.506
"Who are you?" Eyrion asked. "Vecler the Alchemist" The man smiled. He had a large red robe on with a pointy hat that flopped down to his side; his robe had strange symbols on it that neither Marin nor Eyrion understood. "Right and where about do you live?" Eyrion questioned him. "Up this way, come follow me" The wizard started walking up the road. "Why are these dragons, bird things so small?" Marin asked. "They were used to sneak into places back than" Eyrion explained. "These creatures are different" Marin tripped over a stone. "Mine here is the last one. I call him Lasting" Vecler led the two down a split path form the road. "These mountains are beautiful" He took in a deep breath of air. "It would be a shame if evil took over" He ended. "Evil will never take over again" Eyrion stopped Vecler. "I believe you cans top this, Eyrion" Vecler continued to walk. Eyrion's face turned pale and a blank stare came across it, he had no clue how this man knew his name.507
Chatper 4 Confessions of the Heart
by EyrionOn Mar 13 9:37 AM 2005Last login November 20
© N.J. Rossi, All rights reserved
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