3. Black

Black

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    This story has not been put down in writing for far too long.

    **Final Test

    The fires of the Romani camp always appealed to Nico. The openness and warmth that they provided. He sat, leaning against the tree watching the others. Joni was running around playing with Scraps and it brought a slight smile to his face. Nico did enjoy the camp for it's spirit. The Rom were a proud people and full of life.

    As the man sat leaning against the tree he was running through things in his mind. Making the mental preparations for his next task for his instructor. He had already been given the task's objectives and knew what lay ahead for him. It would be neither easy nor a task he would particularly enjoy, but it would be done.

    The sun was passing directly overhead and he knew he didn't have much longer to prepare, but just how could he prepare for something such as this? Was there any way that he could ever be ready for this, truely ready? Not so much for the moral delima that should be playing over in his mind, but rather for the physical problems that would surely occur. He didn't have but half a day to prepare and after seeing his intended target in action he highly doubted that he would ever stand a chance in a fair fight….

    Nico Black smiled to himself and just shook his head at the thought. Fair fights were for paladins. No there would never be a chance for this to ever become a fair fight. Not if he had any control of the matter, and he did. Jubei had said that he would be there to watch and observe this final task, and even offered help if needed, but Nico secretly hoped it would not be needed, but deep down knew it just might.

    Slowly he began packing what gear he had with him up and decided to spend the rest of the day in training. The preparations were made already and going over them again and again was a waste of time. The merchant wandered off toward Baba Katya's tree, where he would purchase some potions of healing and a few other small items. The old lady had always treated him fairly, even though he could sense something about her.

    He strolled into the giant tree where she made her home and as he always did felt a little uneasy. The old woman was reknown for her ability to fortell the future and could read a person as easy as he could a book. He focused his mind and put a smile on his face, but deep down he was the slightest bit worried. Why had he even come into the old gypsy's home? He didn't need any more supplies than he had already and if he did he could surely have purchased them elsewhere. Was it that he wanted the old witch to single him out? Did he want to get caught up in his game?

    An inner battle raged within the man, but not one of conscious decision. This was something bigger than just his thoughts and feelings. Deep inside Nico Black, somewhere far beneath the surface the emotions rose up. To do what was right and to do what must be done, it was always an ongoing war within him with victories on both sides. Deep within was the man who just wanted to be a simple merchant. To own a shop and live out the rest of his life in simplicity. Also there was the man who desired ...everything. From fame, fortune, power and control. This was the darker side of Nico. The one that acted upon his inner desires.

    He strolled up to the old woman casually as he always would and she was always stop what she was doing to watch his approach. This was what always unnerved him most. The old woman's wrinkled face always turned up to watch, her eyes always had the glossy look of someone having had too little sleep or too much drink and they seemed to stare right through the man.

    Nico gave silent thanks to Zyphlin of all people when he finally left the old woman's home with his few potions. It was because of the nosey bard that he had been given the small trinket from his master. The ring had prevented all attempts to magically pry into his life. Nico hated the spells of scrying that everyone liked to use as the answer to every problem. That everyone liked to use to poke around in the personal lives of others. It was just ... wrong, he thought. He thought of his first mission for the assassin and how the bard had seen himself and Jubei in the Nars. He smiled thinking of the aid the bard had unknowingly given him.**

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    Personal III

    The trip through the snowy pass was rough to say the least. There was no sneaking past the wolves that prowled in the wilds there. Though they might not see you they certainly could smell their prey. Nico had tried to avoid them as best he could, but often he found himself surrounded by the giant beasts. They growled and snapped their jaws, but all those who came near felt sting of his rapier. Many backed off at seeing their pack slain as quickly as they approached, knowing when to concede to the more dominate species. They watched from the distance and walked alongside him and every now and then one would rush out in an attempt to take the man down. All met with the same fate.

    The unusually warm air was a welcoming feeling as Nico crept into the small hamlet. It was tucked away in the coldest reaches, but something kept the place warm. Some unseen magical force no doubt. Though the people who lived here were more than a little strange. The wolves rarely ventured in this far, but yet howls could be heard inside the walls at times during the nights. It wasn't a place Nico would ever consider staying longer than he had to. Tonight he would be in and out by morning he hoped.

    The small boy rushing out to play had left the gates open, and Nico was inside before anyone had noticed the fleeting shadow move across the ground. He knew he was in the inn there, and likely preparing his new merchandise. The merchandise that would be used to try and put him out of business no doubt. Nico felt a tingle of anticipation as he stood behind the farmer's building, preparing himself. He was anxious to see the look on the man's face when he found death at the end of his blade. These were exciting times.

    Nico bent low and peered around the corner of the house taking note of those in the streets. The streets here were always calm though and rarely anyone out, probably due to the small size of the community. Slowly he inched out a little further and soon found himself moving quickly across the dirt road. He was crouching on the other side, again taking note of his surroundings. The little hin who guarded the gates was making his rounds through town and Nico sat quietly watching, waiting.

    The hin was on his way toward the gate nearest the inn and would no doubt complicate things. Nico inched along behind the buildings, keeping close to the walls. He kept pace with the hin, peeking at him between the buildings as he walked. He stopped briefly and could be heard speaking to the man named Weshley. Nico hated his trips here for that one reason. The man's voice was one of the most irritating sounds Nico had heard. He must have suffered from an injury or a birth defect of some type Nico always assumed, for his words were always slurred and his speach broken. It too patience to understand what he wanted to say to you and often, he just didn't care.

    The handle of the door twisted only a short ways before he realized the door was locked fast. Only a small obsticle for the assassin though, only a small delay. He quickly reached into his pouch and retrieved the slender slivers of metal. They were the tools of lockpicks and thieves, and today, assassins. It was only a few moments before the latch clicked and signaled it was no longer a problem. The tools slipped back away into the pouch and the door creaked as he opened it just a little.

    The back of the inn was musty and stacked with various boxes and crates. He was in the storage room, and thankfully so. He would take advantage of the area to prepare for the trial ahead. The inn was as quiet as a tomb and the dark figure stalked out into the common room and was up the stairs before anyone would notice. The rooms were occupied, but none by the flamboyant merchant. He checked them all over and over and even checked the common room upstairs. All yeilded nothing. He started to worry then, thinking the spell had not worked and the old man tricked him.

    Back downstairs he heard a familiar voice behind a door. Cataloging inventory, he knew all about that. It was good the man was awake. It would make things far more interesting. He did worry though for he knew the man was a mage of at least some talent. If the staff he wielded was any indication this would certainly be a tough battle, only if he spotted him though.

    The outside of the door was heavily trapped. With a steadied hand the wires were snipped though making the traps useless. Nico didn't have the skill to salvage any of them, for they were far beyond his meager trapping skills. But it did give him an idea. He snipped the wire crossing in front of the door and quickly went into his own trapping. One after another the traps were laid in the small corridor, tangle, then the freezing ones.

    As soon as the last one was laid the door sprung open behind him and in rushed a small child. Nico caught him with one hand around the scruff of the shirt and another around his mouth and quickly spun him away from the trap. The freezing cold of the trap would have killed the young boy instantly if he had taken another step. He sat the boy down outside the door and closed it behind him, making sure to lock it. The child just stared up at the dark figure with his mouth open in shock and awe. Even after the door closed the boy stood outside, waiting to catch a glimpse of the man in black again.

    Nico found himself in a corner waiting beside the door. He called out to the merchant in a hoarse voice, but he would not leave. time and time again Nico would try to coax his victem out of the room, but he was not ready for visitors. The door though was locked, but not for long as Nico went back about his work on the crude piece of craftsmanship. The lock clicked open just as quickly as the last. He could have sprang into the room, concealed in the shadows as he had with the priest, but he wanted to draw the mage out instead. He didn't know what awaited him on the inside.

    He pulled out a few small packets in hopes of drawing out his victim. The packets exploded into a thick powder when they struck a hard surface causing all those to choke and gag constantly. If this didn't drive the man out then Nico knew he would have to wade in after him. The door opened just slightly and the packets sailed into the room striking the floor near the man. the door pulled back quickly and Nico went back to his corner. Shining and the shortblade at the ready for the mage. He could see the smoke start to seep from beneath the door and could hear the fit of coughing from within. Had the man been thinking clearly he would have waited till the dust settled, but instead, he walked right out into the waiting blades of the assassin.

    The door swung open and the man's first steps broke the small strand tied across the door frame. The complex wires snapped to attention and wrapped themselves around the mage's legs. He barely noticed as he was still reeling from the powder. Nico stepped from the shadows to face his prey, making sure he knew exactly who was about to kill him. Making sure that he knew he had just made things a little too personal.

    He spent a long while in the room where he dragged Bobo back into. Cleaning the blood up mostly. He wanted it to appear as if he just, disappeared. Nico took all his possessions with him and wrapped the man in his own robes. The spell of invisibility rolled over them both and Nico Black walked out of the room with the dead man over his shoulder, passing right beside the boy who was still waiting. The walk outside was easy as the gates were left open yet again. He just walked along casually, packing the body. No one would ever remember he had lived soon.

    ….....

    Nico Black sat beneath a tree, perched upon the cliff overlooking the snowy pass. He cut himself a slice of apple and took a bite watching the scene below him. The cold was not affecting him due to the amulet he wore so he savored the time he had. Snarls and yipping could be heard just below him as the wolves fought over their evening meal. He sliced another thin slice from the apple and ate and continued to watch the scene, the feeding.

    After a while he gathered up the clothes of, Bobo and the few baubles he carried and stuffed them into his pack. With a final glance down again he waved goodbye to the would be merchant. To the man who couldn't just compete in the market. To the man who had just made things too personal.

    Two rather large winter wolves were now fighting over Bobo's lower leg now, it being the only scrap really left now. If Nico were a betting man, he would have put money on the smaller of the two though. He had gotten the choice piece of meat first and wasn't about to give it up easily. The shadowy figure tossed the remaining apple over the side of the cliff and strolled off into the wilderness, leaving the, no longer hungry, wolves to enjoy their naps.

    ((Big thanks to Kanen and River, for this was by far one of the best little events I have been in. I enjoyed every moment of it, from the charm person scroll on the old man to the actual assassination of Bobo. It was a blast.))

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    Personal II

    The old man wasn't hard to find as he sat on a bench in the middle of town whittling a piece of wood. Nico followed him and soon found he had a particular interest in ladies. Two of which he had in his company as it were, and no doubt he'd be a few gold poorer when they were done. Nico just had to wait, surely the old man wouldn't be that long with the women. Nico had been instructed to kill him if necessary, but he had a feeling it wouldn't be needed.

    The ladies passed down the road and Nico was directed toward the home in Jiyyd. He ducked behind a building and quickly changed behind a woodpile and began his silent progression toward the home. The door had been left open a crack and called him in. The old man was still probably recovering from his exercise and likely not even paying attention. With his cloak pulled tight around him and low over his face he pushed the door open and walked in letting a gust of cold air follow.

    The old man turned to regard the intruder and his face showed his nervousness. He was aged, unarmed, and in no position to put up a fight even if he chose to. Nico casually strolled across the floor toward the seated man and settled down on the comfortable couch that was across from him. Pulling back his cloak just enough to show the man he was in fact armed he propped his right leg upon his left and stared from beneath the dark hood.

    You know the merchant Bobo, correct? Nico's voice was calm and smooth, like a small cool stream. He watched the man's nervousness as he shifted in the seat across him. You are his associate if I have heard correctly. He sat awaiting an answer.

    What do you want to know for? The old man's voice was rigid and rough, but held a quality that Nico enjoyed. He was beginning to fear for his life and it was showing.

    Business. He is a merchant and I have some things I'd like to discuss with him. He watched as the man looked over his shoulder toward the door and a few beads of sweat formed on his forehead. But in truth it could have very well been from his previous workout with the ladies.

    He's out accepting a shipment that just came in… The man begain a long drawn out conversation about how he was gone and not likely to return, all the while insisting Nico left and came back in a few days. But he only had till morning to find and kill him, or fail the appointed test. Nico only shook his head listening to the old man trying to convince him to leave.

    I doubt he would have any business with a man who walks around not showing his face… He was growing bolder and more resolute Nico noticed. No he would not convince him to give up the location of Bobo, not willingly at any rate. Nico began to think it was time to try alternate methods. Afterall, he could just cut on him a little or just scare the old man if not kill him. Nico pulled a scroll from a pouch inside his cloak and unrolled it sitting there, still looking at Rother from beneath the dark hood.

    I have this scroll here that is very valuable I wish to move. I was sure he could help me… Nico began to read over the scroll, saying the arcane words written there aloud. The words faded from the parchment as quickly as he read them and soon the final word of the spell was complete. The old man sat there looking upon Nico in a new light.

    Oh I suppose there's no harm in telling you where he is. I'm sure he'd love to get a visitor. Nico grinned beneath the hood at the sudden shift in the man's attitude. He's in Ormpur now inspecting the goods… That was all Nico needed to know and he stood up, wrapping the cloak around him tightly. He patted him on the shoulder as he passed by him on his way out the door.

    Just forget this meeting ever took place and that you ever saw me.

    He wasted no time leaving out the eastern gate and into the wilderness. Ormpur was a long walk and the conditions weren't exactly ideal for travelling alone. Never had Nico made the journey there alone, but today he would. He had only a short while left.

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    Personal I

    Nico had thought about the druid from time to time, letting himself be swept back to her memory, but the feelings never were present after that first day. He thought to himself about the methods, about the planning and about his technique. Stunned would have been a good word to describe her face, but that was not a bad thing. Had it not been for her shock and awe, maybe she would have been a more formable foe. Maybe.

    Nico found himself as usual, relaxing in the Romani Camp. He had been taking some time today to enjoy the sunshine for a change. Sierra had been out on her, walk, as the note said for quite some time. Nico had began to think she had gotten cold feet about their relationship and decided she wanted out. She was probably sitting comfortable in her home talking with her brother and family now. Nico had searched for her for quite some time, but found not a shred of a clue as to where she went.

    Nico sat the day away thinking of druids and women. Evening crept up on him slowly and Nico slept the sleep of a troubled man that night. Tossing and turning in his sleep thinking of a life long since forgotten. He was in the shop again, looking upon himself. The reoccuring dream had not troubled him in years now and on many nights, much like this one, it caused Nico to stir from his sleep.

    He sat on the edge of the bed looking around the tiny room that was not his own. He was grateful he had been given this private room in the communal living areas of the Rom. He just supposed that when Arandor offered he either wanted to contain him or knew he would be more comfortable. With his hands on his knees he sat there for a long moment, covered in his own sweat. He looked around the room and took in his surroundings.

    Frostbite's pale glow on the nightstand was somewhat comforting. It had long been by his side now and was a good companion for a man who had more trust in a blade than a man. Shining lay beside it, being the more powerful of the two blades, he often found himself using it more and more, even though it was soon to be gone. He still couldn't believe he had sold it. Sleep would escape Nico for the remainder of this night.

    Morning came and Nico was wandering through the camp, watching the others go about their business. He sat there in the early morning shadows watching as rugs were dusted and fresh water was gathered. Nico had never even noticed Jubei step from the shadows and he was standing alongside him seemingly watching as well. Nico had tried to act as if he knew he was there, but he knew there was no fooling the assassin.

    You have progressed very well my apprentice. Jubei's familiar voice broke the moment of silence.

    I have had a very capable instructor is the only reason why. Nico replied without taking his eyes from the Romani woman dusting the rug.

    I have a reward for your service… The thought of a reward was not something Nico had considered. He longed for nothing really as the man had access to most of the finer things in life. He expressed that very sentiment to Jubei.

    Oh no. You have someone who has been a thorn in your side for a while now. You are going to kill him this day. Nico's mind instantly honed in on a few people, but was surprised when a name he had not expected came next.

    The merchant Bobo must die… Nico's face shifted a moment and he smiled a little still staring at the Rom woman who had went inside only to return again. Oh this was a reward indeed. Every since the merchant had arrived in the region he had began a slanderous campaign against Nico. Even advertising his slogan of: Don't buy from a thief in Black… Oh this would be a pleasure Nico mused.

    Where can he be found? Nico was already soaking in the thoughts of ending this man's life. Oh this would be a reward for certain. The man who would try to end his career would soon have his life snuffed out. Nico already planned in his mind and was already planning on what he would need for the task.

    Nico soon found out that this was not only a reward, but a test as well. It seems he had disappeared and hasn't been seen around in a while. He was going to have to investigate more to find the merchant and track down one of his associates. An old man named, Rother. All the assassin told him was that he could be found in Jiyyd. It did not matter to Nico though. Test or no, Bobo would die.

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    Breaking Point II

    The would be assassin moved through the camp, with his mind racing. So many things he thought of and yet all he could focus on was the young druid's laughter. She carried herself in such a way that drew your eyes to her. Her smile was warm and inviting and her voice was playful. Nico found himself staring straight ahead though and not turning to look back at the two who followed.

    She and Meril strolled along as she spoke of her daughter. Only eight apples high according to her mother. She was so young to suffer such a loss. The loss of a loving parent would surely affect the young girl greatly, but just hearing of her affected Nico. He strolled through the fallen leaves speaking in a lower tone, a tone of confusion, turmoil and worry.

    Only eight apples high…. He muttered under his breath as they walked.

    She wanted to purchase something from Nico, but he kept backing off from the offer. No he didn't want to get any closer to her than he had to. By the time they reached the large gathering place, the one with the fire, surrounded by sitting stones, his mind was racing with possibilities. What could be so important about this druid who seemingly had such a free spirit? Why did she talk about the group of druids she was with so much? And more importantly, what would he do when the time came?

    They passed the fire and headed toward the communal tree where everyone slept. He tossed out the general information about the area and the Rom as he knew it, but fought with himself in his mind. They walked closer to the cave then and Nico knew the time drew near as the spoke of the abondoned mines long lost, but recently uncovered. Nico played off what she had told him earlier about her run in with some dwarves over mining in a cave. Perhaps she could be coaxed into entering.

    The cave smelled of mold and stagnant water. Nico had grown accustomed to the smell as he spent some time in this cave, thinking to himself. The water creeped through the cracks of the cave ceiling to splash down in tiny splashes on the stones. Sharp pillars of lime and other minerals scattered the floor and made the walk sometimes a hazard. They cut off your exits and forced even Nico to suck in his breath in order to pass the narrow passages.

    She skipped along through the water and told of her daughter again and again, but by this time Nico had shut her out completely. The thoughts that were rattling around in his mind were gone and his course was set. He only had two options as he saw it. Kill the girl, or turn on his master and kill him. Nico had no intention of striking out at the assassin for he respected him far too much. The man had taken him under his wing and offered to teach him skills that no one else could. No Nico would never turn on Jubei this day.

    They passed through a narrow passage and a bat swooped down passing right between the trio. It nearly pulled Nico from his mental preparations, but he was set. In his mind he mentally ran over his gear, his supplies, the plans and very discreetly unfastened the peace bond on his rapiers. He looked back with a smile to the druid and offered to tell her more of the mines and stopped a moment to hear more about her daughter.

    Only eight apples high…

    They passed a turn in the cave and Nico knew what lay ahead. One of the shrieker mushrooms. The ones that would call forth one of the large beetles no doubt and more importantly....the one that would scream out in alarm. An alarm that would surely echo out of the cave and into the camp. Nico couldn't let her pass much further and he knew it.

    But something captured her attention, a few large masses of fur and blood lay in the darkness of the cave. Gnolls, and quite dead ones at that. There was a flash of light behind Nico as the spell captured and held Meril in place. Jubei then stepped forward from seemingly nothing then, stepped right out of a shadow it seemed and quickly lashed out at Meril, but not to kill him. No there was no need for that as Nico was sure he wouldn't be paid for the collateral death.

    She looked up startled from the gnolls in time to see Jubei's curved sword flash and strike downward at Meril's back. She also looked over to see Nico sliding the blades from his scabbards....

    The rapier and shortblade slid out slowly and deliberatly as he stepped forward toward his goal. She backed up and stammered out a few words that were lost on Nico's ears. He didn't care what she had to say at this point. No this was the breaking point for the man. There was no turning back now and he had crossed over that thin line he always walked.

    He stalked forward as Jubei slashed a final time at Meril, taking him down fast. She began to move in that familiar way that only a spell caster can. She was beginning a spell and Nico knew it. The words though would be captured in her throat as he casually strolled forward raising the rapier in ready for the coming battle.

    She paused for a moment, just a tiny speck of time as the truth had no doubt became very evident to her. She looked past Nico to see Jubei standing in appraisal of his apprentice. She looked back to Nico then and as he stared into her eyes there was no sorrow on his face. No regret for what he was about to do. No, Nico was past that breaking point now. Jubei had shaped the man into a trained killer. One who was devoid of such weaknesses as pity, self doubt, compassion...

    He feigned with his rapier, only slightly moving his hand coaxing her to where he wanted her. Her spell captured in her throat as he sent out a hard kick into her stomach. She stumbled backwards, her balance was lost as her heel snagged on one of the newly forming stone pillars. She was on her back now and Nico moved with all the speed he had. He had covered the ground that stood between the two before she even had hit the floor.

    He lunged down on top of her letting one knee find the soft stomach of the druid again as he landed down hard pinning her beneath him. He held the rapier high as he struck down time and time again. Her hands battered against him trying in a futile attempt to swat away the blade. Each time Nico drew the blade back he sent her blood to splatter on the walls and floor. She groaned out in agony as he repeatedly stabbed over and over quickly, but she was tough and held on to her life as none other could have.

    Nico had struck her several times, once in the shoulder, once in the chest and throat and a fourth time through the palm of her hand. She found the energy though to shove him away and she quickly staggered to her feet. Her one free hand covering her neck where the rapier had punctured and she staggered forward a step. Her blood ran down her hand and dripped off her fingertips in a steady stream as she tried to make her way toward the exit. Toward possible freedom and to aid.

    Nico stood and dusted himself off before walking up behind her. The blade slid into her back with the precision of a surgeon as he felt just a small obstruction. No doubt the blade had just grazed against a rib as it passed through her heart, the tip coming to a stop at the back of anothe rib. She slumped then and slid off the rapier sending one more splatter of blood to the floor.

    Without a second though Nico rose his hands as if to give up, and interlaced his fingers behind his head. Jubei was pleased and Nico had no doubts, but more importantly Nico was pleased with himself. He was truely becoming the weapon he had trained to be.

    No, use one of their axes on me. It will make it seem as if they attacked me. Nico told Jubei as he walked over with the katana at the ready, still stained with Meril's blood.

    And he did just that. The axe bit into Nico's flesh and he too groaned out in pain, but he knew it was necessary. If this was to be believable then he needed to look as if the gnolls had attacked. He slumped to the floor of the cave as his blood emptied out, but he had full trust in his master. He knew that he would live through this and he did.

    He lay there on the floor waiting for Meril to wake up from his beating to find him nearly dead, but looking as if he killed the gnolls. He lay there thinking not of the woman who still stared at him with empty eyes. Eyes devoid of all sparkle, all sign of life. He lay there concentrating on his breathing and trying to maintain consciousness. His mind was blank and he thought nothing of the woman. He had passed the breaking point and he lay there with a clear mind.

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    Breaking Point

    There are days you find yourself lost, but standing in your own home. Lost because you are truely torn on what is happening around you and lost in your thoughts about what is the best course of action. Suddenly you realize that just because you stay at a place does not mean it is yours. Just because you live somewhere doesn't mean you need to have a feeling of belonging. Sometimes you are lost in your own living room.

    The skies were clear over the camp today, not unlike most days spent among the Rom people. The sun didn't get into the valley much, but neither did the elements. Rain and snow were usually shielded by the steep cliffs of the mountains and the dense forest. While the Nars was punished by the harsh elements the camp was usually left to spend it's time in a gloomy and often stagnent, days.

    Nico had moved to the camp not too long ago under the pretense that he was there to aid with the gnoll issue. In reality he had fled from Peltarch, at the request of his master, Jubei. Possibly because he might have been seen during the assassination of the Blood Spider, but even if he had…who really cared? Regardless the camp is where Nico had started spending his days, though a lot of times he found himself back in his home.

    Today must have been one of those carefree days. The type where you start to let down your defenses some and relax, for Nico Black walked from the inner camp not in his usual manner, but rather he strolled along casually. It would be one of those times that he would regret letting his guard down so easily. He quickly found himself amongst friends talking of problems and solutions. Of adventure and life. Then she walked into camp, and beside whom was she skipping around beside? None other than Kanen Hightower, Durai's father.

    He spotted Nico immediatly and began the introductions, Nico greeted them both in his customary friendly manner and quickly noticed the young ladies free spirit. Free spirit was one way to describe her for certain, but she was more than that. She carried herself in a way that made you look at her, that made you feel good about yourself. Nico did feel better just seeing her. She brightened up his already good day and quickly he agreed to show her around the camp as Kanen asked him to.

    She was a druid appearantly by the conversation as herself, Meril and Nico walked about the camp. She kept looking to the sky and seemed concerned by the weather. She found it odd how the climate seemed to leave the camp in the state that it was in, but Nico just smiled and continued to lead her on the tour as asked.

    The voice came in a low whisper, barely audible to Nico himself. It was as if the wind had came to him and bestowed some great secret, but Nico knew the voice. The voice was low, but carried a lot of weight with the merchant. It was the voice of the man who called him his apprentice. The voice of the man who was insturcting him in the art of killing. The voice of the elusive assassin, Jubei.

    Nico quickly excused himself from the tour and made his way to the inner camp on what he called a quick bit of business. They stayed near the fires making themselves at home while Nico walked at a quickened pace through the gates in past the travelling merchants. He was headed to the place he found himself going to think when he needed time alone. Before making his way halfway through the camp he ducked into the shadows and began to make his way quietly, though quickly to the cave entrance.

    Jubei appeared before him in his swirl of darkness and shadow and no matter how many times nico whitnessed it he was ever impressed. What power the man had and Nico could almost touch it. It was why he studied under the man, to learn from him. To be more skilled than he was now. Nico was a man of no meager means financially and he wanted for nothing. He could have lived the life of a king had he wanted, but always chose the simple life. No it was for the skill and the constant striving for perfection that drove Nico to train under the man.

    Jubei spoke to Nico quickly then and he knew his next assignment was at hand. He just wondered how it was that he would manage to delay the girl and Meril long enough to complete the task. Listening quietly to his master, he soon realized the truth of the matter. His target was in the camp now and she, was at this very moment sitting and laughing with Meril. The information swam around in Nico's mind, mixing with his feelings, his emotions. How could he find himself capable of taking her life? What was so important about the carefree druid that made her such an enemy?

    The plans were made quickly, and the merchant tossed in his ideas. Make it look as if it was the gnolls. Have her slip from the edge of one of the ravines. The ideas poured out of Nico quickly as he searched for some way to rationalize it. For some way to take her life, but leave the responsibility behind. No, it would not play out like that though. Meril was to be attacked and knocked unconscious by Jubei, and the task of killing her fell to Nico solely. It was a test, but was it one that Nico would pass?

  • G

    A Pleased God III

    The hallway was dimly lit from the candle lit lamps that lined the walls. The faint light cast a dark gloom throughout the corridor and caused every object to cast an oversized and dramatically altered shadow. The hallway was empty though and faint light could be seen from beneath the doors. Nico knew the man he sought was here, but just didn't know which room. But he would soon find him. Just a matter of time.

    Downstairs the Whore was in full swing as the evening began to get started. Singing creeped up through the floorboards and every now and then you could hear a fight almost start out. Most likely over the lady, Chesty Lane, who frequented the tavern. The loud singing and dancing downstairs only aided Nico upstairs. For the Whore was by no means a new building and the floor did creak as you stepped. No matter how light your steps were. All that was covered up though by the sounds of the tavern.

    Slowly he moved from room to room, listening at the doors, peeking in the keyholes. Slowly he started singling out the rooms one by one until he came to the last one. In all honesty he was not sure this was the exact room, but instinct told him it was. Deep down in his gut he felt that he was there. Now his mind was racing. No longer was it calm and relaxed. He was going through his routine, checking off the mental list of preparations he had to make for this fight.

    The ring turned on his finger as he issued the command word to enact the spell of bulls strength, then a similar phrase enveloped him in the spell of cats grace. The boots covered his body in bark and the magical coin ensured no magic would hold him. The book blessed his weapons and most importantly. The scroll of silence surrounded him in the globe that would keep the priest from calling on his god. Nico liked this above all else.

    The door swung open and there he was. Nico had hoped to catch the man unarmored and unarmed, but that wasn't the case. He was sitting on the edge of the bed, his hands working at his metal greeves, to fasten them or unfasten them Nico couldn't be sure. It didn't matter now anyway. The tall, hulking man stood up, towering over the much smaller Nico. His form made Nico look as if he were just a teenager. Nico paid no attention to the man's size, nor the huge morningstar that he leaned over and picked up. None of that would matter soon.

    He stepped inside quietly, his footsteps not making a sound inside the silence globe and closed the door behind him. A slight grin crawled across nico's face as he saw the man begin to roar out in protest, but he just casually stepped forward again. This time putting the man inside the globe as well. The most silent chuckle ever not heard didn't make it out of Nico's mouth though he was indeed amused as the man's words were captured and muted. No, his god wouldn't hear his cries for help, and most importantly. No one in the other rooms would either.

    The shadows crawled from beneath the bed, from behind the night stand and from all around the room. The man's own shadow seemed to dance and move as the darkness globe exploded inside the room. It was time to end this, to end his life. Nico stepped forward in the darkness. His own eyes failing him, and with no sound to be heard he knew the man was on the move. Quickly nico went for the door jamming a small dagger between the frame and the door, locking it solid.

    The man was smart and was no stranger to battle. That much Nico knew for certain. The holy symbol he wore proudly around his neck gave that much away. It was a game of cat and mouse in the darkness, but a game Nico much enjoyed. The darkness lifted to find the man in a defensive position. Nico had also taken up a position, beside the nightstand. He crouched there laying in wait as the man quickly scanned around for him and finding no one. The blackened blades struck out quickly from behind sending the huge man lurching forward, only to spin around and face nico squarely.

    Striking from the shadows is a tactic Nico quite enjoyed, but facing a man toe to toe was always what Nico considered a folly. Rapiers against a weapon three times their size was no contest. But this is where he found himself. The morningstar swung wide and came around with a fury, just missing the ducking would be assassin. Nico came up fast though lunging out with his rapier and swortsword connecting solidly with both. The large man staggered back only to taste the sting of Frostbite yet again.

    Nico was much faster than the priest, but he was by far the more powerful of the two. It would prove to be a long battle. Ducking and spinning Nico danced around the room avoiding the swings of the huge weapon, but taking a few solid shots. The man bled from many wounds now and Nico was becoming more and more battered himself. His left arm hang almost limp at his side after a nasty blow from the morningstar. He spun around again pushing his midsection back as the morningstar passed within inches of his stomach, but in his dodging the weapon he lowered his defenses and cought the full impact of the shield with his face.

    The shield bashed into Nico's face sending him sprawling backwards and he groaned out in pain. His eye was already swelling shut before he even regained his balance, but something else struck him even harder. He had groaned, and heard it. The globe of silence was gone now and he looked up at the man who was already calling upon his god for aid. Quickly Nico pulled the other scroll and began to read the magical words feverishly. The spell of stoneskin fired off and instantly the man was encased in stone. It was near to impossible for nico to whittle the man down now, but the globe of silence was once again up as the priest was calling out again.

    Nico had to move fast and he lunged forward again. He had dropped Frostbite in exchange for his other rapiers, Shining and the pirate's blade. His hands were a blur as he caught the man unsuspecting. Nico was hurting now and he knew this was his last chance. He moved and danced around the man in an unrelenting flurry of stabs and lunges. This would decide who was the better man. The stone chipped off in large chunks as the rapiers stabbed through, making them crumble off and disappear before hitting the ground. It wasn't long before the stoneskin spell was gone.

    Nico could see the man's eyes through the helm and knew he was fearful, for he knew he was going to die tonight. Shining continued to carve holes in the man's armor, opening him up like a can. Blood dripped from the priest onto the floor and was smeared around like a ghastly painting of blood and dust. The priest's footing failed him, as he slipped in his own blood. He staggered forward as Nico was as well. Shining slid through the armor quite easily this time and nico felt the blade touch the back of the armor as he drove it home with all the strength he had in him.

    The man stared at Nico for a long moment before being lowered to the ground just as the silence broke for the second time. No one ever heard him hit the floor. Nico sat on the side of the bed as had the man just before he entered. Breathing heavy he pulled a few potions from his pack and drank them down, letting the magics of them race through his body. The swelling in the eye went down quick and he regained feeling in his arm and he stared down at the man again between potions. Not to see who he was or anything like that, but rather just to see if he was truely dead. He drank the last potion and tucked the bottles away.

    Nico leaned over the man and checked him over quickly. He held nothing of real value to Nico. Not even the amazing morningstar was worth the time to pack it out. Nico was looking for something else. Something personal and he found it. The holy symbol of Tempus lay beside the man's head, still attached to the chain around his neck. Nico pulled it free and stood looking it over. He knew a little of the god and somewhere deep down Nico reasoned that it was okay he died. Tempus would have been proud of his warrior Nico thought. He died in battle, though he was caught by surprise the man died well. Swinging his weapon and he died as he had lived most likely. A warrior. And Tempus would have been pleased.

  • G

    A Pleased God II

    Nico found himself walking along briskly through the Rom camp staying close to the cliffs and trees. His head lowered into the blowing wind, the mask he wore taking the bite from the cold wind as he headed out into the Nars. His eyes fluttered a few times as he stepped out into the Nars pass adjusting from the dark shadows of the camp to the blinding white of the pass. The snow was laying in a light blanket over the ground, but the light of the noonday sun was blinding. He stood there a moment and removed the mask and tucked it away. No time for sneaking now. He was on a deadline.

    Soon he found himself walking along the dirt road that led through the pass. Every now and then he would spot an Eastlander moving on their patrols and he couldn't help but smirk at them. It had been obvious for years that the man had no love for the bandits. Somewhere down deep he held a hatred for them that he could not readily explain. Perhaps it was because they tried to kill him so many times or perhaps it was just engrained in his personality from that first encounter with the priest. Whatever it was he never hid the fact he despised them.

    His mind was clear as he walked. Not a single though passed through his mind as he strolled along briskly taking in the scenery. Usually he always had something running through his mind, but when he was on one of these missions he was truely at peace. His mind was blank and he just enjoyed walking and living. If he had thought too much he might have backed out and perhaps that's why he cleared his mind. Either way he was fast approaching the Crossroads where he saw the sign for Jiyyd. Even turning down the East Road he casually walked along. It wasn't until he could see the smoke of the town's chimneys and the outer walls that he began to get prepared.

    He had been walking nearly half a day now and the sun was quick on the decline and he quickly dipped into the shadows of the setting sun. The trees made for excellent cover for the man and he found himself wandering through some brush and low lying shrubs until he managed to find a place to relax. Soon he was sitting on a stone inside the clump of trees and again he was preparing. Quickly he changed armor and cloaks and fastened his weapons belt around him, checking the scabbards for the blades.

    Nico had always kept an assortment of blades. He was a collector of fine rapiers and it was one of his passions. though in truth he didn't have very many that one would call amazing or even decent compared to many of the other weapons out there. Frostbite was a blade touched with a tiny bit of coldness. The magic in it wasn't strong at all and was barely noticable unless you were struck by the blade. Nico always thought though that it isn't the weapon you carry, but rather how you carry the weapon. Frostbite was more of a symbol than an actual weapon of some power. The other blades he held might have been enchanted more heavily but Frostbite was his preferred choice in most instances. Today though might be different.

    Nico took out the small bottle of the black inky substance. Most referred to it as weapon black, and it truely lived up to the name. He began the short task of painting the blades of the weapons with the substance and watched as it stole away the gleam of the metal. He held the blades up one at a time as he painted them, examining them for any missed places. This was no time for mistakes. While waiting for all the blades to dry he double checked his supplies again. Scrolls, potions, trinkets….all were where they should be and all were easy to get to.

    The black blades slid back into their scabbards and as the sun bid it's finaly farewell to the land Nico Black slipped out into the shadows and headed for the walls. The land was covered in the haze that was dusk. Not really light and not really dark either, but instead it painted the land in cold tones of grey. This was the time that things became muddled to people's vision. The time when even the brightest of colors seemed to lose their luster. This was the time when you could get by unseen except by a trained eye.

    The back door of the Regal Whore was locked solid, but it was only a temporary problem. Quickly diving into one of the many pouches, he retrieved a set of thin metal tools. The tools of a locksmith or just the tools of a thief. The locked clicked open within moments and the door opened just a crack. Just enough to let the man inside and as quietly as it opened the door shut again. No one heard him enter nor saw him standing in the corner now.

    The waitress was going over her inventory lists and standing right between nico and the door that would lead him into the common room and upstairs. From the darkness five shiney coins flipped through the air and tumbled into a corner on the opposite side of the room. They clammered to the floor making the sounds that only a spinning coin can make and instantly her head turned toward them. The prospect of gold will distract most people and she quickly spied one of the coins still trying to stay alive in it's wobbling spin.

    She walked over curious and began picking up the coins just as he had hoped. He moved quickly along the walls, inching his way to the door that led out into the common room. Soon enough Nico was padding up the stairs toward the second floor. Toward his target and new lesson. Soon enough Nico would kill.

  • G

    A Pleased God

    The leaves swirled around the Romani camp as the wind blew through the valley. Most days it felt as if the air hung about you like a thick cloak, but today a cool breeze had managed to find it's way between the mountains and the dense trees. Nico Black pulled his cloak tight around him as he made his way through the gates of the camp greeting those who took notice of him. The unusual chill of the day found him heading indoors to find a bit of warmth, which he would not find for a few hours more.

    The sun was steadily reaching it's pinnacle but as was common in the camp it could barely be seen over the cliffs and trees. In the darker corners, the ones tucked away between towering cliffs of stone the light never managed to sneak it's way in. Instead you were surrounded by a cold, damp shadow. Standing in one of these shadowy sanctuaries you could look out over the camp and get a glimpse of what it could be as the Rom children played in the leaves. The cold of the shadows though surrounded you in these places. These were places you went when you wanted to escape. To get away. One of these places is where Nico Black was heading to this very day.

    He walked along the camp's dirt paths steadily finding his way to the back corner of the valley that was the camp. No reason led the man this way as he truely wanted to escape the chill wind, but instead found himself going to the chill shadows. At least the wind didn't blow there. He kept the hood of his cloak pulled low over his face, partially to shield from the breeze, but mostly so people wouldn't recognize him. Often he found himself hiding his face or standing in the dark corners to avoid people.

    It was always a certainty that someone would find him usually and begin with the business talk. He knew he would get no rest in the communial tree, the place where everyone in the camp usually spent their days relaxing or sleeping. Instead like most days he tried to find a spot to hide away. A place to be alone. A place to hide away from the world.

    Soon enough he found himself walking in the shadows of the cliffs avoiding the eyes of the Rom and Gali alike. He made his way to a small section of the camp. It was a crevice that looked as if the stone had been cut away by a giant sword. It was a nice place to get away from everyone and Nico usually found himself doing some type of work here on the days he didn't want to be seen. Going through his ledger and getting a list of those who owed him a debt to just relaxing and reading. Though his eyes were by no means that of a dwarf he found himself adjusting quickly to the lack of light to read by.

    Nico had no more made his way to this sanctuary when the shadows beging to shift and move. They gathered and swirled in front of him and soon formed into a solid mass. A very familiar figure stood before Nico, but he was not surprised. Not as much as one would think when a man such as Jubei materializes right in front of you and steps from the darkness. Jubei bowed slightly in his customary greeting and Nico nodded in his and they exchanged their greetings. The master and his apprentice stood in the darkness and there was no doubt what the topic would be.

    Have you killed this day my apprentice? Jubei asked with his accented voice.

    An eastlander in the past tenday, Master. Nico's reply was calm and carried it's usual casualness to it.

    The talk was a brief one discussing the progression since the last assignment and what had been learned. Nico admitting that he was sloppy and that it did not go well, but he had learned a good deal. Nico was showing progress in his training, and his instincts were on target which Jubei had confirmed. He still had a lot to learn though. He still had a long way to go if he was to become the weapon he desired to be.

    It was time for a new test. It was time for Nico Black to once again train in the art. The art of killing. Nico had gotten the information from Jubei and committed it to memory as the man spoke in their usual hushed tones. A priest was the target and he was in Jiyyd. Nico immediatly started making plans in his mind as he listened to the details of the man. Donal was his name and he was on the second floor where he had a room. Before the sun rose the next day was the timeline he had to work within. It would be done. The apprentice would prove himself to his master this time beyond doubt.

    Nico listened to the instructions carefully and even before Jubei had faded completely from view, he was making his plans. Checking and double checking his weapons belt, securing the potions he would need, tightening the straps on his leather, and he was walking within moments. Heading to his new lesson. Heading to kill the priest.

  • G

    Grit

    _Have you ever been in a place for so long that you forget just what it is really like. Deep down I mean, in the heart of it. I believe I have gotten too settled walking the streets of Peltarch, so settled I often forget to look around at the Jewell of the Icelace. Peltarch may very well carry the name of the Jewell, but once you pass inside those walls you realize that this gem doesn't sparkle so brightly.

    Since I was a child I have lived most of my life in some large metropolis. Peltarch being the one I have spent most of my time in and in all this time, in all these years, I seem to have forgotten what it is like. Once you get passed all the nobles with thier noses so high in the air I pray for rain just to see if they will drown, and once you leave the comfort of the civic district, you see the real Peltarch. The one people choose to ignore until they forget it exists. I've not taken a good hard look around until recently and I've seen just how gritty this city really is._

    The marketplace is located just inside the western gate of the city. One deep breath and you are instantly flooded with a variety of smells. Smells so thick you can taste them. The fishmonger displays the day's catch proudly packed in fresh snow. The smell of fish mixed with the variety of fresh spices, herbs and other foodstuffs if overwhelming if you aren't prepared.

    The morning sun had been up a while and the market was bustling with customers. Children played with sticks near one stall and one was pretending to be one of Peltarch's Defenders who was after a fugitive. The swords clacked together a few times as they went through the motions of their mock sword fight. It was just another irritating sound mixed in with the jumble of others.

    One figure moved through the crowd quietly. Nico Black was a man who carried himself well. Seldom did you ever see the man looking drab or dressed casually. Though after talking to him it was clear his appearance did not match the man behind it. Always he was clean shaven, except for the large sideburns that he wore, and his hair always kept in place. Appearance was everything for the man and his outfits were no exception.

    Black was his name and it was the color he prefered. Partially because it was an expensive taste for the dye was never cheap. Mainly though he just liked it, even though Sierra did not approve. He stood out in a crowd for certain and he liked that. Not that he wanted the attention because he rarely enjoyed it, but it did give him a sense of importance. A feeling of difference. He was like a single speck in a sea of color and people knew who he was.

    The merchants all knew the man and he made it a point to speak with many of them weekly. Being a merchant himself he had a connection to them that went deep down. Often he would be found sitting around some shop or in the marketplace casually speaking of everything from rising prices to various customers. To see him leaning on a counter, laughing and smoothing down his muttonchops was no strange sight for the people. He had once been a Senator and you would have been hard pressed to find someone who didn't know his name, even if some had never seen his face.

    He strolled through the marketplace casually mingling with the crowds. Most knew he frequented the market and most could care less about the man. In Peltarch people were always seeming pressed for time. Shoulders bounced off one another as people hurried through the booths gathering what they needed for the day. Maybe it was the smell that kept them moving. Nico, as with all the other merchants, had grown accustomed to the familiar and welcoming smells.

    The dark figure drifted away from the market after spending the better part of the morning talking and shopping carrying a fresh apple. Nico was on his way to the commons to see who was about as was his usual routine. No telling what you would see there during this time of day. Street performers were rampant usually, as were various hustlers and clerics shouting the tenets of their faith. It was always a scene to be certain.

    A sound caught his attention though as he moved through the streets and he turned his attention to the ally that led between the two large buildings near the Blade and Bow. Peltarch was no small city by any means, nor was is a sprawling metropolis the likes of Waterdeep. The buildings did shield the sun's rays though from ever reaching the ground in certain places and this was one of those alleys that rarely saw the bright rays of the sun.

    He moved quietly into the alley, his curiousity getting the better of him. The man's steps fell lightly on the cobblestones as he moved into the shade of the buildings. The air here was considerably cooler as it had no time to warm up and you see your breath hang in the air for a moment. It had been many a year since Nico had ventured down this alley and to be honest he couldn't remember the last time.

    He found himself standing behind a small portion of a stone wall now watching the show he had found. A few children seemingly playing in the alley with one another, that is until you noticed the form on the ground. One was a brute of a child and nearly stood as tall as Nico. He had some orcish blood in him somewhere Nico mused to himself. You could always tell those children by their enourmous heads. They were truly a mistake of nature.

    The one who caught his attention was the smaller child off to the side. The wirey one who just watched as the others made quick work of the young man. Nico bit into the apple now forgetting about his surroundings for a moment. He watched as they patted the young man down quickly looking for any valuables he might have. He made no movement to help though he could have certainly have scared them off, but he watched instead as they gave him a parting kick to the stomach and make off with his purse and loaf of bread.

    He took a few more bites watching the man pull himself to his feet. His clothing marking him as a man of no meager means. Why would he have even ventured down this alley Nico wondered. Surely he couldn't have been lost, but probably was looking for a shortcut. A faster way to get somewhere with half the work. A trickle of blood trailed down from his brow and his nose looked as if it had exploded on his face. Blood splattered on his face and tunic from the beating and he staggered to keep his footing. He leaned against the building putting his hand to his face checking to make sure his nose was still attached no doubt.

    He staggered passed Nico whimpering and coughing. No doubt some blood had trickled down his nasal passages and into his throat. He sobbed out for the guard with ragged breaths. He had received a good beating, but was in no danger of dying. Even so Nico probably would have made no move to help him. Instead he chewed on the apple watching from the cubby until he passed. Nico could hear him now staggering back out into light wishing he had never taken the short way home today.

    It wasn't until that moment that Nico looked around. He saw the small alley littered in trash and debris. The smell of the market was long gone and now all you could smell is the remains of emptied chamber pots and rotting trash. Right here in the commerce district no less. It wasn't strange to see this in the docks, but Nico had neglected to notice it right here in the area he passed by daily.

    He had probably always known it was there, hidden away. The little alleys and backstreets that he used to frequent as a young man so much. It reminded him of his childhood on the streets and brought back a rush of memories. He looked a long glance down the alley and saw the man speaking to a guard, then turned to see the other end. It looked like a giant tunnel as he saw the bright light of the sun at the end and a few people stroll by.

    He finished his apple looking around again at the grit of the city. This was what was at the core of the city and he knew it. Peltarch was no different than any other place. It was sugar coated to look great on the outside, but there was a whole other world inside. At the heart of city lived a different world. One filled with crime, poverty, depression, and desperation. He tossed the core of the apple aside and straightened his shirt. He knew he was above all this, this grit, but he also knew he would always be a part of it. He truely did live in both worlds…

    ((Crappy one and I might rewrite it if I get inspired more. As always, thanks for reading.))

  • G

    Guilt II

    Footsteps in the snow coming down from the tower. The bard's voice rang out and without turning Nico knew that Zyphlin was near. The loudmouthed bard's voice was like a dam ready to give. He just yearned to drown out everyone else with his voice, his ideas, his complaints. The man disappeared in a cloud of smoke and Nico instantly took the cue to duck into the shadows. He was on his way now back north. Back to the streets of Peltarch and back to the Pissing Goat.

    Perhaps the bard saw something, but in reality Nico knew that Zyphlin could not possibly have seen him. Even when he stared into the mirror looking for his new master. Nico was moving quietly through the shadows and brush. Then he was gone. Soon as he was out of sight of the bard his steps increased threefold. He was running now, trying to put some distance between himself and the others. Trying to lose himself in the hustle and bustle of the streets.

    Ducking behind a tree Nico quickly changed from his leathers into his fine silk shirt. Nico knew that in broad daylight to attempt to sneak through the streets was folly. He blened well regardless in the streets of the civic district. The shirt being straightened as he walked along past his apartment and heading toward the water's edge. Toward the docks and toward the Goat.

    The sun was setting and casting a orange hue on the water and made the docks district glow with a faint light. A pretty sight had it not been mangled by the obvious signs of poverty and depression that was ever present in this area. Nico ducked into an alleyway and quickly changed into his darker leathers and sat waiting. Waiting for the sun to finally give up it's futile fight to stay above the horizon. Waiting till he could move through the streets unnoticed.

    The singing drifted out from the Goat and the place was living tonight. Screams could be heard as the place was pulsing with drunken antics and rowdy drunks. The barn made a good place to wait. Nico shook his head looking at one of the drunken sots who lay face down in the street with disgust. That is why he rarely would partake in strong drink. He was the type to keep his mind about him. The door to the barn opened ever so slightly and the dark figure slipped in through the crack. Now it was time to really prepare.

    He sat down in the hay placing his pack in front of him. Invisibility potion, magic wand, healing potions, armor, cloak, the black liquid, most importantly though was his blades. All of the items were checked and rechecked to make sure they were accessable. The armor fit like a glove and the cloak draped around him like a dark curtain. The shadows around him felt comforting now, more than they ever did before. The ink black liquid dried fast on the blades, stealing away the lusture of the blade. Frostbite slid into the scabbard smoothly and Nico smiled feeling the coldness of the blade.

    It wasn't long before Nico found himself crouched just outside the door of the Goat. He was waiting in the shadows for something. Nico knew that there were a few things a night of drinking were good for and one of them was pissing. Sooner or later Damon would come outside, and all he had to do is wait.

    The door swung open and out stepped a lady with her arm looped in a short scrawny man's. This was him and Nico knew it. Not too many could look as he did and still wear the colors of the Spiders unless he had some other talents. It didn't matter though as he'd never get the opportunity to use them ever again after this night. The two rattled on about her promotion and there was no doubt as to how Damon wanted to test her worth. Though she was reluctant and demanding at the same time.

    Slowly he inched through the shadows, creeping along the wall until he got within feet of the couple. He crouched there waiting. Waiting for something to happen and for the woman to find her way down the street. She was fiesty and it was only a matter of time before she stomped off. Most women get their temper going and want to force a man to follow on their heels like some sad stray. It was only time before she started playing the I'm a helpless woman and I need a man card. And she did. She turned up the street stomping off in her anger.

    The man stayed there, not going for the bait she was leaving. She would have gotten her promotion through her teasing alone more than likely, if she would have had the chance. Damon had drank more than his share tonight by his steps and posture. He was facing the Icelace now, pissing carefree into the water. Now was the time.

    The shadows crept up around Damon gathering at his feet. Had he been more alert he might have even noticed it himself, but it was too late for him now. The shadows exploded all around sucking out all the light and Nico waded in. He knew where the man was and he knew that he wasn't going to just run away with his cock in hand. He had a few moments while Damon secured himself and got over his surprise.

    Nico strolled into the shadows pulling Frostbite free from the scabbard in a smooth motion. The first lunge took Damon in the center of the back and he half groaned, half screamed out in shock and pain. The shortblade followed quickly stabbing quickly and hard into the kidney. His body rocked a moment from the shock and slumped to the ground in a heap still twitching as his brain no doubt tried to process what had just happened. He was dead before the stone had a chance to greet him.

    Nico stood above him a moment before kicking him into the water. The lifeless body bobbed in the icy water and looked like a giant red beacon. No he would need to be submerged, but the woman was coming back now. No doubt she had concluded that her fit of drama and stomping away had no effect and she was going to try a different approach. Oh it was becoming a mess now. A body floating and someone coming back. Nico entertained thoughts of just killing her but they quickly faded. He was here for one man and he had gotten him. But who would really miss a Bloodspider anyway?

    After fumbling around for so long Nico found himself wanding through the streets again. Heading for the abondoned home so he might change. The braclet of Damon still in his grasp as he moved through the darkness. The rickety door squeeked open and Nico slipped inside. Then standing before him was his master. How in the world had he known where to find Nico? Then he found out.

    The man had followed Nico through the streets. Had been watching as he struck down Damon. He had even cleaned up the place and appearantly made it look as if it were a lover's quarrel. Exactly what Nico had intended, but didn't have the ability to. They spoke for a while, Nico taking in every word, every ounce of teaching the man had for him. He learned what his mistakes were and learned how to correct him. Next time he would not make a mistake.

    The morning greeted Nico with a newfound joy. The air seemed so much more sweeter. The sun seemed so much warmer. Nico had the challenge he longed for finally. He had a new appreciation for life as well. He learned how fragile a man can be and how much he should take in the moment. Did he think back on Damon after that night? Yes, more than a few times. Did he ever feel the sense of guilt over it? Not for even a moment. Besides, who cares if a Bloodspider turns up dead?

    ((I shouldn't have to say this, but you do not know any of this IC. I write what happens to Nico IG because I enjoy it and I hope people enjoy reading it. Don't metagame this please or you will be….punished.... :twisted: ))

  • G

    Guilt

    _I suppose it is some strange quality that I must have misplaced in my years, though truth be told I'm not sure there was much there to begin with. I tend to think people truely feel guilty over something because they made a mistake and instead of accepting it they dwell on the "what ifs". I have learned in all my years that you can think all you want, but that won't change anything. Guilt is a feeling for those who cannot handle the reprecussions of their actions.

    What is this overwhelming urge to dwell on the events of the past. To me that is what this amazing feeling must be like. You can't really feel guilty about something you are about to do can you? I like to think that I have control of my actions and live by them. We all have choices in life and we make some good ones, and we make some bad ones as well. But to feel remorseful over something that you chose to do it just beyond me perhaps.

    Did I ever feel this sense of guilt when Chaevre was stuffed in that small crate for so long? No, I can't say that I did. I felt ill as I had to smell her rotten corpse even through Deron's magics. When I look at her now do I feel guilty for having crippled her business for a short time, while I sold off her wares piece by piece? No, I can't say that I do. It was a choice that was made and not by me, though in truth I would have done it myself had I been there.

    There is no need to dwell on the events and actions of the past, lest you let the future slip you by. No, I don't think I even enjoy the thought of wishing things were different. Wishes are for children…_

    The cold air of the pass blew against my face as I headed south from Peltarch, prepared for a day of trading in Jiyyd. For some reason that little town had a surge of travellers and adventurers in the last few months. Customers weren't easy to find these days, not with all the competition springing up. Not that Nico minded competition mind you, but something seemed to be going on behind curtains he was not privvy to, and he didn't like it.

    Each footfall landing lightly in the snow, but the tracks quickly blown away by the strong nars wind. It never seemed to stop snowing in the pass. For even on a clear day the wind would pick up the fresh powder and toss it around like a small blizzard. It was these types of days that Nico wished he had a shop and had customers who came to him. The wind and snow wasn't so much of a burdon as was the long trek. He never even knew why he did it sometimes. It sure wasn't for the gold, or was it?

    His eyes were focused on the road ahead, but Nico was no stranger to travelling the Nars and always had an eye out for any dangers. Then he was standing there. The same man who had introduced himself only a few days earlier. Nico had made a note to remember the man's appearance and posture. He seemingly appeared from no where because snow was all Nico could see. Perhaps he was blinded by the light reflecting off the pure white snow that he had missed this man approach. Perhaps it was just because he was that good.

    "Do you have an answer for me?" The words carried weight as they drifted through the icy wind. The man was accustomed to directness Nico could tell. A good quality to have by Nico's standards because he really disliked inept people or those who refused to do something with themselves and blame others for their problems. No, directness was a good thing, especially in business. Nico was a direct man even though he would humor a customer with haggling, which in truth was an amusement for him as well. Because in the end, he always made a profit.

    "I do, and I agree to your terms." The words left Nico's lips quickly as if he had given it some thought prior. In truth Nico had been thinking on it heavily since he was approached by this man. This self-proclaimed master of blade and bow. His offer was more than acceptable to Nico because he had longed for some challenge. Someone who could push him further than he was. He felt stale these days.

    The man removed his helm showing the balding head. A ponytail tied up what remained of the man's hair in back and he had an odd look to him. Nico could tell he wasn't native to the area for certain. An aging man it seemed, but to think he was old was a grave mistake. Nico could tell by his gait that he was a man who carried himself well and was not to be mistaken for a old fool.

    "Good. Then tell me my new apprentice. Do you learn better by listening, or doing?" The word apprentice rattled around a few times in Nico's head. He had rarely if ever thought himself beneath anyone and certainly never entertained thoughts of being an apprentice. This though, was different. The reasons he never saw himself as an underling for someone else is probably because he thought himself better than most. To him he knew it. This man though was opening a door for him. One that led to a place he had not been in a long while. It was a welcomed change for the lifestyle he lived now.

    "I learn best by doing I suppose." Nico always longed to perfect himself, to make himself better. Not only financially, but in all aspects of his life. He had always fancied himself as a fencer and downplayed the talk of his skill by others. He wasn't in denial by any means, but he was not the type of man to boast. No, Nico Black was by his own standards a modest man who liked his privacy. He had accepted the man's offer and knew what was to happen. He knew that he would learn from him. Learn to be an artist. His canvas would be intelligent beings, his medium would be blood and his paintbrush would be his rapier. He knew what he wanted and it was time to take it.

    "Good. I was hoping you would say that." Nico listened for a few moments as his new master described the details of the man, only known to nico as Damon. A Bloodspider by reputation and a man of weak constitution. Though by what he heard, he knew he led a few men, but wasn't very talented. The Pissing Goat, a regular hotbed for the Spiders it seemed was where Nico was to go. Where Nico was to paint his first work of art.

  • G

    Eastlander Priest VI

    He rose to his feet and I could see that smirk on his face. The grin showing me the rotten teeth I had been looking for. It was him for certain and I felt almost relieved. He strolled around the fire strapping the shield on his arm tightly, all the while, he smiled. It was becoming annoying now to me to see those stained and chipped teeth. I couldn't help but think it looked like he had been chewing on a rock at some point and the sight was disgusting.

    I knew the spell would not hold for long but I wanted to hear the man speak his mind. At least he was owed that I thought. The light of the fire hurt my eyes though. I was sensitive to the bright light and I felt almost tugged back into the gloomy darkness of the cave. I fought against the desire though and listened to the man speak.

    "Ye done real good out there, boy." The words echoed a little in the room as I listened in my silence.

    "Ye kill't my men. Ye kill't my woman." Here it was now. He was going to ramble on about how I killed his friends and how he was going to pay me back and make me suffer and all that goodness. If it is one thing I despise it is fools who think themselves gods. Having pride is one thing and this man certainly had none of that, but he seemingly had confidence in bucketfulls. Perhaps he was strong in his faith.

    "And now, boy, I'm going to enjoy making you suffer.." Well there it was. I was hoping for something more original. Something that would have made him feel better about himself in the next life. I mused thinking about when he found himself trapped in the fugue plane wondering just what the hells happened. I wonder if he will think over his last words and decide he should have said something just a little differnt. I know I would have.

    He was speaking then and I could tell it was a prayer to whatever god was desperate enough to claim this one as a member of their flock. I don't know who I felt more sorry for….the priest for looking as he did, or the poor god who had plans for this one. Whatever plans they were I was about to cut them short.

    I could sense the build up of the spell as he neared the end and I dove forward toward him. Not to strike out at the man, if you could label him such, but I came up a few feet in front of him. Still in my silence, a silence he now shared. The spell from the scroll had put up a barrier all around me that buffered out every crackle from the fire, every rock that hit the floor, his heavy bootsteps as he stepped backwards, and most importantly, every word of prayer he offered to his god. I couldn't help but chuckle as his words disappeared into nothingness. No one would hear his prayers now I mused knowing his spellcasting was done.

    I could have driven Frostbite right into the man's stomach had I wanted. The shock of being mute was wearing off him and I could tell, but I wanted it to for some reason. His death would not be so quick as the others. He rose the mace up high and began his charge at me. The large shield covering his vital areas as he attempted to take me down hard no doubt.

    In a flash I saw the priest laying dead. Staring blankly up at me as I hovered over his body. The shortsword stuck deeply in his throat. My boot stepping on his face and pushing down hard as I pulled it free. I had no remorse for the death nor did I care that my boot was now leaving a muddy footstep on his face. Blood dripped from my brow in tiny droplets and I staggered toward Norwick's gates….

    I sidestepped quickly pulling myself from the vision and just ducking the wild swing. If the man had been thinking he would have kept running till he heard his footsteps again. At least he could chant out his prayers outside the globe of silence, but he was likely still a little shocked. I know if I were in his boots I would have been. He turned quickly, but I was ready for him.

    He stepped forward yet again making sure to keep his shield in front. The mace came in the predictible overhead arc and again I stepped aside, but still feeling the wind from the would be killing blow. He swung again with a backhand motion and I rose Frostbite up to intercept, not stopping the blow, but merely deflecting it past me. A rapier is a fine weapon, but not one to attempt to block a heavy mace. I stepped back letting him step forward and taking more ground. I was holding back briefly as if waiting for something.

    His boots thudded hard against the stone floor of the cave and crunched tiny pebbles beneath them. I had to wonder if he heard or just ignored it. He swung in fast on me clipping my shoulder and the pain coursed through me. Maybe that was what I wanted. Maybe I just needed motivation.

    He sneered at my reaction and again those stained teeth just insulted me more than his words could. My blades were dancing then before he could even utter a word. Spinning in a beautiful dance lunging and parrying. Frostbite dug into his shoulder quickly and I knew he was feeling the blade's icy touch. He shouted out in pain as he stepped back holding the arm in close to his body. He wasn't done in from a simple strike like that, but he had noticed something. His voice had come back to him.

    I have never heard such speed to a prayer in all my life. Before I knew it a huge pillar of fire spewed forth from the ceailing of the cave and I fell back into a roll as the magical fire poured over the stone. I could see the steam and smoke rising between he and I and he was quite proud of himself. Now it was something, something more.

    I was on my feet and running then as he began the second spell. One no doubt that put my shortlived life in danger. One that he wouldn't finish though as Frostbite lunged out at him and forcing him to break his spell to block. Lucky for him he did, because I was not holding back this time. My hands were a blur to me as i feigned high and struck low piercing his thigh. Slowly he started to bleed from several wounds, scattered across his body. It was like painting a picture I thought.

    He limped backwards and began his healing spells no doubt. I lunged forward and my blades clanged off the shield as the healing magics roared through his body. His wounds were closing now, but I knew the pain would not leave. The chill of Frostbite would not leave for at least a day regardless of his spells.

    He rushed me again with his renewed vigor. He connected solidly with the shield and pushed me back into a defensive stance. Again he was praying and again I was too slow to stop it. The ray of light struck me in the chest and i nearly passed out from the pain. Oh I knew the spell, and had been struck by it before, but it felt nothing like this. I was in agony like I had not felt. All I wanetd was to run back into the cave further, back into the shadows and darkness.

    I knelt down on one knee from the magical attack. The armor I wore felt as if it wanted to tear me apart and again I longed for the shadows. Then I heard it, the spell of holding that would be my downfall, my death. I looked up at the priest who loomed just a few yards away, but a few yards I could not possibly cover to silence his prayers.

    Then I noticed something there in the darkness behind him. It was moving, creeping across the floor. The walls were alive then all around us and I breathed in easier. Shadowy figures danced behind the man as he shouted out his prayers. I watched intently in that brief moment as even the priests own shadow which flickered from the light of the fire seemed to turn against him. The darkness raced across the floor quickly and exploded right between me and the priest.

    I felt more comfortable then. The armor no longer felt like a prison, but more like a warm sanctuary as the globe of darkness manifested between myself and the priest. I chuckled in the gloom of the globe of darkness knowing the spell had failed. I mean what good is a spell meant for someone if you can't see them?

    I was inching along then. Quietly my soft elven boots padded on the stone. I inched back from the darkness and found the wall of the small chamber and began to circle around. I crouched on a large rock for a moment watching the priest began his prayer to remove the magical darkness. How pathetic I remember thinking. I mean did he really expect me to be in there still? I inched forward as he finished the prayer and the darkness dissipated and the firelight sprung back to life.

    I could tell he was scared then as he looked out at the empty room. He knew somewhere deep down that I wasn't gone. That feeling you get deep down in the pit of your stomach that something bad is about to happen. He spun quickly as I stepped from the shadowy alcove and I smiled as the rapier dove hungerily into his stomach. The hissing coolness of the blade creeping in deeper as I stepped forward putting my hand on his shoulder using it for leverage.

    His face contorted in a look of shock, horror and confusion as he stared me down. I pulled the blade free slowly giveing just a little turn as I did. He instantly slumped and fell backwards laying on his back. The mace clanked against the stone as it rolled just away from him and I stood over him this time. I knelt beside him and picked up the end of his cloak and began to clean off the blade as he stared at me, still quite alive but in too much pain to do much else.

    He was dying and i'm sure he knew it and I stood back over him sheathing the blades calmly. This fight was all but over. All that remained now was the dying part and it would come in time. I walked over to the fireplace and warmed my hands slightly and took in the area glancing over to him from time to time. The light was still stinging my eyes, but I quickly scanned around at the makeshift camp. A pity I thought, nothing that was even worth my time.

    I saw his lips moving and a mixture of spit and blood bubbled up and I knew he was trying to speak. I walked back over to the man and knelt beside him again listening in the stillness of the enclosure. Patiently I waited as he gained the strength to utter his would be last words. "Fark you" was all I made out. Again I was disappointed. I mean of all the things he could have said, I think again he disappointed me. When you are dying I suppose there isn't much more you can say to the man who has sent you to an early grave though. I guess it was fitting after all.

    I sat in the cave waiting out the storm to pass and when it did I ventured back out into the snowy white of the ridge. Thankfully the horse had made it's way under a tree still hitched to the wagon. I loaded the bodies into the back of the wagon and covered it again and headed just south. Oh I would return to Peltarch, but not before I made a stop.

    The rock crashed through the ice and plummeted into the chill water below. I could see the river was running quickly and followed it's direction toward the Icelace. It was the very river that I had overheard the priest talking about before. I felt it a bit poetic and ironic as i slide his body into the water and watched it float swiftly away beneath the layer of ice, that he was now suffering the same fate he had intended for the others. I stood there for a long while watching, even after the bodies were well on their way to the lake.

    It was going to be a long trip back with all this snow I thought, regretting the bumpy wagon ride back to Peltarch.

  • G

    Eastlander Priest V

    She was no where to be seen. That skinny, sickly looking girl. The last I saw her she was wielding a dagger in one hand and I knew she had at least some skill. If not she would have been dead by now. She was playing the same game as I and it was only a matter of time before one of us made a mistake. I also knew that while I could stand the cold thanks to the amulet of ice I wore they could not. Sooner or later they would need shelter and probably had something near by.

    I drifted through the trees as quiet as possible. I had long since lost the feeling of excitement that I first had. I was glad of that too because it causes mistakes. Mistakes I could not afford to make. I moved quietly around the wagon peering into the darkness. The snow though had began to fall hard and fast now and I knew sooner or later, if I did not find them the frigid tempatures would take them for me. It was a race then. I would not be beaten to my victory by nature.

    I saw the figure moving toward the cliff and by the shape of the outline I knew it was my priest. I could see his destination through the blowing snow. A small cave was hidden in the side. I watched as he pulled the brush away and scampered inside. I could only hope there was no way out the back as I put my back to the tree and waited a moment. I wanted him to get comfortable. To relax a little thinking he had gotten away. Besides, I still had the skinny girl to find.

    Snow can be an ally or an enemy to somone trying not to be seen. And she was trying hard. She had taken to using the same trick that I had earlier and was crouching in a bush I was sure. The snow that once covered the leaves and branches was all shaken away. She had bumped into it in her haste I thought. I was amused slightly watching for any movement. I grew tired of the game quickly though and reached into a pouch for a packet of powder.

    I took off in a run then through the snow and wind toward the bush. She had to see me coming and I was certain she thought me foolish. My feet were tossing the snow into the air with each step as I sped toward the bush. She stepped up much as I had done earlier in an attempt to catch me of guard, but it was what I wanted. Her thin frame darted up with surprising quickness and she lashed out with quickness at me as I passed the bush.

    The choking powder connected solidely on her chest and exploded around her face. My pace did not slow as the cloud engulfed her and the bush and I darted into the darkness again. Her skinny body was rocked with a fit of coughing and gagging from the foul powder and she stumbled from the bush gasping for some fresh air. From the darkness I walked, heading toward the sickly girl. She bent over in a fit of coughing and gasping for air which she was finally getting. She stood with a hand on her chest thankful for air again but she, in her confusion, had seemingly forgotten about her attacker.

    Frostbite gave off a hissing sound as the cold blade pierced through her lung. She immediatly slumped to the ground and I slid the blade out and cleaned it on her cloak. Even though the blade was magical I feared it rusting still and really didn't like having to clean off dried blood later on so I took the time to do it now. It's not like she would mind getting a little more dirty anyway.

    The mouth of the cave was dark but I was used to it. My eyes were keenly attuned to the darkness now as I peered from beneath the hood of the heavy cloak. I had not even taken the time to remove it previously. I peeled back the hood and let the cloak fall to the floor crumbled at the mouth as I stepped into the darkness. I was happy the priest had ran in here for I was confortable. At least in here there would be no excuses.

    The armor seemed to dance over my form I noticed. I had not worn it many times, but every time I was amazed. The cloak danced and moved even though there was no breeze blowing. We were comfortable here in the shadows. I stalked through the darkness taking note of everything around me. My senses were heightened and I knew somewhere in here was my priest. That rotten teethed priest of some desperate god.

    In the distance I noticed a flickering of light. It was fire no doubt and I was close. Very close. I pulled the piece of parchment from a pocket in my cloak and began to read the words carefully. This was to be my greatest amusement. After I completed and I watched the magical words disappear from the page I stalked off again, silenty.

    He was there, sitting behind the fire calmly. Either it was a look of supreme confidence or the look of a man who knows he is about to die. I didn't really care either way, because I knew the results would be the same regardless. His body glowed with the magical enhancements he had placed on himself and I knew he was prepared. I too knew that he had a lot more up his sleeve than just protections but I stepped from the shadows regardless just on the edge of the light of the fire.

  • G

    Eastlander Priest IV

    The clip-clop of the horse could no longer be heard over the wind blowing through the trees. Even if there was no wind the snow had started to build upon the road now and would buffer any sound regardless. I had almost resigned myself to turn around until the horse pulled up stopping suddenly. There it was in front of me. A few downed trees lay across the road and I was certain it was not from the wind. The trunks had deep gashes in it and not from breaking, but from an axe. I breathed in heavily knowing something was about to happen.

    It's like a feeling one gets when the know that something bad is about to happen to them. The hair stands up on your arms and neck and you get that chill running through your body. Not the kind from cold, but the adrenalin rush you get that makes your body shiver visably. Excitement is the only word to accurately describe it I suppose and that was the feeling I had now. I steadied myself though because I knew I needed to be relaxed.

    Then they were there standing in front of me. I could see the shadowy outline through the snow as they hudded against the wind and approaced my wagon. I sat very still and watched their movements in the fastly dimming light. To be honest they had picked a great time to set up this ambush I thought. It was perfect conditions for them to have set the ambush.

    One man approached the side of the wagon. The purple armor he wore gave him away immediatly and he held the crossbow in his hands. It was shaking I noticed but to be honest I couldn't tell if it was from nerves or cold. I hoped for cold. I watched as three more stepped into vision. One other wore similar armor to the crossbow wielder. But the other two, they were different. One was a scrawny lady barely visable in the storm. If I had not been expecting her I would have never given her thin frame a second glance. Beside her stood a man dressed in chainmail and carrying a mace and shield. Was it him I thought to myself. Of course it was, it had to be.

    I stepped from the wagon facing the crossbow with all the grace and movement of a man twice my age. My back was hunched and I moved with feigned effort as I tried to step down. I stared at the crossbowman for a moment to make sure he wasn't going to fire and with the grace of an old man I stepped from the wagon. The snow parted as my soft soled boots landed beside the wagon. I watched the infantry man closely as he pointed the crossbow with one hand and pulled the tarp back with his free one. The shiver of excitement coursed through me again as I held my movements just so I could watch him pull back the tarp revealing nothing.

    I was on him then fast and with a vengence. He had turned to face me and moved his hand to the crossbow stock to steady it as he was about to fire. Frostbite and Shining were already in my hands as I ducked low hearing the click of the crossbow as I did. The bolt sailed wildly over my head as I lunged forward. Shining found it's mark as the rapier tore through his stomach. I felt the wood of the wagon at the end of the blade as the tip bit into the side. I needed to calm myself. The man slumped to the ground keeping a hand over his stomach and I was gone before the snow had a chance to shift from it's white to red.

    I found myself behind a small bush watching as the infantry man crawled across the snow. The wind and snow was now my ally as I hoped they had not heard the attack. The other infantry man held the horse and patted it's neck a few times before noticing the figure laying in the snow. I heard him shout to the others and rushed over to his fallen comrade. I heard chanting and knew the priest was calling upon his god for aid. It was no matter though. I actually was hoping he would get a few protective spells on himself.

    They were nervous now and were all three searching around for the old man who was on the wagon. I knew they had no idea what was laying in wait for them and it was an amusing thought. The man with the shortsword approached my hiding spot lunging into the nearby bushes with his blade in hopes of getting lucky. If the man had just ran away he would have indeed been lucky for he wasn't my target.

    He was twenty paces from me now and I reached down to my boot pulling one of my daggers free. I stood quickly making the brush rustle and the snow fly up in a cloud of white. The dagger sailed through the air with good aim as he turned defensively to address his attacker. The dagger buried itself deep in his chest and he staggered backwards. The shortblade he carried tumbled to the ground spinning as it rolled from his hand. He looked down at the new part of his body and collapsed to his knees and before he toppled over I was off again. Into the snow. Into the darkness.

  • G

    Eastlander Priest III

    The wagon's wooden body bounced as the wheels rolled across the cobblestone. It had been a while since I had driven a wagon anywhere let along into the pass. The old horse that pulled the cart's head was low as it trotted along. The clip-clop of it's hooves rang out even above the crowd in the streets. I remained quiet as we rode along toward the gates that would lead me out into the pass. Even now I could see the tower rising above the walls in the distance. It wouldn't be long until I was there.

    The wagon was covered in a thick tarp. Just about every merchant covers his goods when travelling because it serves two purposes. One to keep the elements from it. Nothing like having a soaked inventory when you arrive. Secondly to keep would be thieves from spotting your cargo. One of the main hazards when you travel between cities. Peltarch though has it's share of would be criminal masterminds and thugs would would just assault you on the streets if given half a chance.

    I pulled the hood of the heavy cloak down low shielding my face from both the sun and the curious bystanders. I didn't want anyone to see who I was in fear they would stop me for some ignorant questions or just to say hello and neither of which i was in the mood for. I looked just as heavily concealed as my cargo and that tends to draw suspiscion from many townsfolk, but not usually in Peltarch.

    The icy winds of the Icelace blows through the streets cutting a chill path and if you are not usually heavily clothed you will find yourself very uncomfortable. Today was a typical day in the snowy north. I could already see the clouds formed above me and knew that a heavy storm was on the way. I just hoped I didn't get stuck in it.

    The gates swung open for me as I passed through, the guards pulling back the tarp to inspect the cargo I carried. For a moment I thought we were going to have an issue,but he just shrugged and pulled the tarp back. Guess he didn't expect to see an empty wagon, but I moved past after he was satisfied. He was a good guard I thought to myself as I moved out the gates. I had seen him there many a day and it seemed no matter what he would show up for his job. I remember when he spoke of his wife to me in the past and how she was killed during the Black Lotus epidemic. I felt sorry for him as I still do now.

    The wagon no longer bounced and jostled on the cobblestones, but was instead replaced with the jostling of the roadway. The nars pass was travelled quite a bit and the road was a fairly good one. Still though I was no accustomed to the wagon and found myself shifting trying to get comfortable. The tower loomed in the distance though and the sun was high in the sky, though with the clouds it was more an assumption than anything. Even now the wind blew hard against my face and snowflakes began to fall. Not the small wet kind of snow, but the large dry snow. The kind that creates a powder on the ground and doesn't stick well until it begins to pile up.

    Relaxed, it's a word that usually does not go well with me, but today I was calm and relaxed. Even though the storm was blowing up fast on me. The icy amulet kept me from freezing and the cloak shielded me from the icy wind. The wind blew hard now and the snow was coming down in sheets. The old horse had his head lowered walking into the wind and snow and was trudging along slowly now. The snow danced on the ground and blew around in tiny little snow tornados and soon the road in front of me was all I could see.

    I had just passed the tower about an hour ago and the sun had began it's decline over the Giantspires. I could tell because even though there was no sunlight it started to get much darker in the pass. I sat there letting the horse make his own pace through the growing blanket of white. I was at the ridge now and I was alert though in all honesty I did not expect anything to happen. Surely no one would be foolish enough to be out in this storm. Not even an Eastlander was that foolish I thought to myself.

  • G

    **Eastlander Priest II

    It was a cold morning, not unlike all the other mornings in Peltarch. The Jewell of the Icelace Nico murmered as he swung his legs heavily over the side of the bed. He ran his hands through his hair pushing it back away from his face then spread his arms wide stretching his back. The fire had died down he could tell as he was aware of the cold more. Standing beside the bed he began to get dressed, trying hard to stiffle the yawns.

    What a great night's sleep it had been. He looked back to the bed a brief moment as he fastened the clasp on his trousers looking upon Sierra, who was laying sprawled out on the bed. She liked to do that and he never figured out why, but every time he would get up she would scoot over to try and fill in the entire bed. It was as if she was searching for him in her slumber. He knew she still slept by her breathing which came out in long deep breaths. He enjoyed watching her sleep some times. Often he would find that she had fallen asleep on him while they lay on the couch in front of the fire. He would allow her to use his arm as a pillow till he could no longer feel his fingers from the lack of circulation. She was the one who really kept him down to earth and he appreciated it.

    Quietly the door closed behind him as he made his way out into the chill morning air. The fire had been stoked and had warmed up the apartment considerably. He had even cooked a quick breakfast and left it to warm for Sierra near the oven before he gathered his things and set out for the marketplace. He smiled slightly knowing that she would likely not thank him, but rather ask why he left so early and not told her but he didn't mind so much. She was stubborn like that and that is what he loved about her.

    Walking along he straightened his shirt making sure to get it just so. He really hated looking like a begger and even though by speaking to him you would think he was just an average guy he was by all visual accounts much more. But appearance is one of his flaws perhaps. He really believes himself to just be a simple merchant and former senator and nothing more. Though to some both are amazing feats, especially considering the success he has had in business.

    His destination was the new shop that recently opened up after the war. He was getting to know the shop owner a little and him making an appearance to see how things were was not strange. Even after he left the Senate he still made it a point to visit the shop owners to see how they were holding up and gather information. Amazing really what people will tell some folks and he liked to keep up on new competition and to ensure the merchants were not getting leaned on too heavily.

    It wasn't long before he was swinging open the heavy door of Violetta's Fine Tailored Garmets. The smell of lilacs filled his nostrels as he stepped inside. The smell was no doubt to make the place a more calming enviornment. A little trick some merchants used to keep customers in their stores longer. Smiling he gave a polite wave to her and leaned on the counter with a smile.

    "You have done quite a bit with the place. Not having any problems I take it?" His smile still on his face slightly as he spoke.

    "Me, problems? Nah Mister Black I haven't had a single problem since that hin tried to make off with a bolt of cloth as big as he was." She shook her head in obvious amusement recalling the scene.

    "So how's business otherwise? You been doing a fair bit of trading here in Peltarch. You considered expanding? I mean you could find a good bit of business in the southern towns as well I am guessing."

    "Well I got a large order from Jyyd actually. Ordered a buch of silks and heavy cloth. Not clothes mind you but just the basics. Usually I only deal in my finished products, but the offer was too good to pass up. I'm getting it ready as we speak."

    "Now Miss Violetta you have gotten ambitious. Good for you though. When's the shipment heading out if I may ask?"

    "Oh in a couple days. Order said it was urgent. The cloth was needed for a wedding."

    "Hmm. I tell you what Miss Violetta. How about I arrange for you to have an escort to Jiyyd? On me. Just think of it as a belated welcome to peltarch from me. Though I'll need you to hold off on the delivery for a day so I can gather up the Guardians. They do a good job and are a fair lot of folks."

    "Well I don't know what to say Mister Black….Travelling is never safe and especially not for my nephew to make the trip alone. I'd be in your debt if you can get someone to help him get there safe."

    "Please, Nico will do fine and it isn't any problem at all. I'm trying to get them known around the region anyway and see if I can pull some business in for them. Though Miss Violetta....I'll need you to keep this completely quiet. Best to not speak a word on when you actually will travel so that you can just sneak through the pass and no one is the wiser...."

    The door swings shut again behind him as he leaves. Confident that she wouldn't utter a word about delaying the trip by a day. The first part was over and now it was a simple matter of securing a wagon and a sturdy horse. Neither would really be difficult considering he knew just about all the merchants in town. It was only a matter of time now.**

  • G

    **Eastlander Priest

    I watched him there, talking with the skinny woman. She pulled her tattered cloak around her tightly to keep the chill Nars wind from making her shiver more than she was. She looked delicate and fragile standing there but she was not my interest. It was the man whom was standing near her instead, the one with the mace and shield. His chainmail was a stark contrast to the snowy pass behind him and he stood out clearly, even from the clump of trees I was in.

    His boots were covered in a sickly brown colored mud from his trampling a path in the snow. All around him the snow had long since been stamped way creating a small puddle of mud that froze and refroze after each step of his heavy boot. His steps created a tholcking sound as he moved along his post as the mud suctioned to the sole of those boots. If I could not have seen him I surely would be able to hear him.

    I shivered slightly in my shadowy cove and caused the leaves to rustle slightly. I held my breath as I waited to see if they heard me or not. Sure enough the skinny woman turned her head staring right at me. I held perfectly still for what seemed like an eternity before she turned back declairing it was nothing. I had to wonder if she had truely seen me and didn't care. I slipped the small ice covered amulet from my pack quietly and slid it over my head and around my neck letting it rest against my skin as I tucked it beneath my armor. The cold vanished.

    Above me I heard a sound and turned my gaze up slightly to see one of the trained hawks perched on a branch. It didn't seem to notice me or if it did I couldn't tell. It seemed to fall off the branch as it glided from it's perch and swooped down to scoop up a small rodent. The priest and the skinny woman turned suddenly but relaxed as they saw it was one of their own. They turned back to their conversation then and the priest smiled.

    The smile seemed like a piece of artwork. Not the kind that you can say, My that's beautiful. Instead it was the kind that you look at for an age and can't figure out what it truely is. Abstract looking it was. The teeth were stained and blackened from the poor hygene he must have. Why would a god even accept such a wretched creature I mused. Surely it wasn't so he could convert others to the faith. No one would listen to the broken toothed priest I was certain.

    I lay in wait, but not really knowing what I was waiting for. I had coated Frostbite in the inky black liquid before I came out this day. The liquid stuck to the blade and took away the shimmer of the steel. Perfect for not being seen. But had I come out with a purpose or was I really just taking a walk as I had told everyone? Was I really just on my way to see the gnome in Norwick as I had thought when I left my home? If I had I would not be perched behind the trees and shrubs peering out at a Eastlander now. I had come out with a purpose and it wasn't a gnome this time.

    The sun began to set behind me. I could tell by looking at the priest's shadow growing taller and taller as if some magics had been cast on him. How long had I been here, sitting, watching? The sun had not hit it's pinnacle when I dove into the dense pocket of shrubbery and trees, yet now it was near dark. The skinny woman who was on the post leaned against a stone and slinked down the edge with a delicate thud. If a thud could ever be delicate this was. The priest sauntered over finding a spot beside her to get comfortable as they prepared to dine on their meager rations of food.

    I stared at the food long and hard for a moment. Two things coming to my mind as I did. First, I realized I had not eaten today since I left and my stomach was starting to shift and rumble inside me. I was used to it though from my time spent adventuring and I pushed the thought away. I would eat later when I got home I thought. Secondly I thought of how could they even afford to live and have that food? I have said for years that the Eastlanders are not farmers so I knew they had likely taken it from someone or had at least purchased it with gold they had not earned through honest work. In the end though I really didn't care about the latter of the two. Everyone has to eat somehow.

    What was it I was here for? I had heard them speak of everything from their sexual relations to their job, but yet I had not heard enough appearantly. Then I felt myself leaning forward a little more. I watched as crumbs of bread danced off his chin and plummeted to his cloak below. The man had no respect for himself I thought to myself. He spoke before, after and during his bites like a sloppy pig and I was almost disgusted. But it wasn't disgust, but more disappointment. Don't ask me why, but I felt disappointed briefly.

    The topic though, that was what I was here for. This was why I had waited so long in the trees and cold. It was here now just before they went off duty that they spoke of their plans for the coming tenday. I was eager now, almost like a child when he knows he is about to get a present on his birthday. I was eager with the anticipation of hearing what came next and I inched forward.

    The priest spoke of a caravan due to travel from Peltarch to Jiyyd in four days. Silks for the clothing shop was the cargo I overheard but that mattered little to me. It was the talk of the ambush that had my interest. The priest spoke of the blockade that would go up and how he was in charge this time. He had recently been promoted and he gloated to the scrawny stick of a woman. No doubt in hopes of winning her favor after work was over. He smiled again at her showing those wretched teeth. I wanted to sew his mouth shut to keep anyone from seeing that smile, if that is what ou would truely call it.

    I listened intently. The ridge. They were intending to strike early it seemed. Just after the merchants passed out of sight of the tower. I gathered the details of the plans. The felling of the trees that would be used for the blockade. The plans to kill the merchants and toss them in the small river that fed into the Icelace. I knew why I had truely come from home this day.

    I moved with the silence of a mouse from my hiding spot during the changing of the guard and found myself on the road again. I was heading north. I was going back home. Sleep found me quickly that night and I slept the sleep of a very content man. I had my mind set and my plans drawn before I hit Peltarchs gates. I knew what was to come and it was a good night for my sleeping. I had not slept as soundly as that in many years and it felt great.**

  • G

    The Gnome III

    He was at the bridge now in the Nars. He was scared again and I could sense it. The others pursued and somewhere I got spells cast on me to aid my health. To be honest I could not tell you who cast them on me as my concentration was on the gnome. He fled to Dragon Hill and turned to fire his acidic arrows on myself and the others. I took cover quickly though but not before I felt the bite of a few again. I had forgotten the pain that was still in my side. It was the excitement that I had yearned for so much. I would feel no pain for a little while yet.

    Deacon was there, but where he came from I'm not too sure. He fled quickly though or was laid low. I know he was leaving a heavy blood trail though. The others fell around me and those arrows bit into my flesh again and again. I had already drank over twenty potions in pursuit of the gnome. A fortune by some standards. I retreated now to avoid those arrows. I was on Dragon Hill and crouching in the shadows near to death. I could feel the icy chill of death in my bones. It was that or the nars, but I truly believe it was death creeping up on me.

    My hands shook as I pulled the invisibility potion from my pouch. I watched as my hand faded in front of my face and watched as the tiny vial tumbled lifelessly to the ground at my feet. I enjoy the feeling of invisibility. It makes a person feel powerful to know you are unseen. Gaylan backpedaled in the snow past me now. The gnome stalking in and I think I might have heard a laugh, but perhaps it was me laughing. Gaylan fell quickly to the snow bleeding from a few wounds. The gnome had let down his guard.

    I watched as a droplet of blood fell from the gnome's elbow to the snow below. The warm liquid sinking into the frigid snow. I trailed up the gnomes arm then following a stream of blood that flowed from the gnome's shoulder. I smiled as I knew I was the one who inflicted that wound. He drank a potion, but that did not matter. This time I would not make a mistake.

    I slipped from behind the stone I found myself crouched behind, moving slowly. Though I was unseen I knew I was not unheard. The gnome breathed out heavily knowing he had won the day. Everyone else lay dead or dying on the snow. I could hear the moans from a few biting into the silent darkness of the nars. Below me I heard one of the Eastlanders cheering on the gnome and I stalked in knowing I was unseen.

    If you have never heard the sound of flesh being torn apart by a sharp blade you might consider yourself lucky. Though that was the exact sound I wanted to hear next. The tiny figure looked down at the body of Gaylan who lay bleeding and blurbering for his life. He had him dead and he knew it. He wanted to watch though. This gnome was a professional. I slipped in behind him then towering over him, my shadow at my back.

    The gnome tilted his head back ever so slightly. Smirking at the dying mage. There was the feeling again. Familiar. Again it felt as if time slowed down for me and my mind flashed. It was like the gnomish exploding powder was tossed in my face and I was back there again. I was staring at the Eastlander priest, the first man who's life I had taken. I saw him looking up at me with those lifeless eyes as my shortsword protruded from his throat. There was that sound again….a sickening sucking sound as I pulled the blade from the man's neck. My boot firmly smashing into his face for leverage. I enjoyed the feeling then as I was about to savor it now.

    The blade slid across the gnome's throat in a straight line and he spun on his heels. The invisibility had faded from my form as I pulled the blade back to my side. Blood dropped from the blade, but there wasn't much on it. The gnome looked at me with those eyes. The same eyes the priest had so long ago and he went to speak. He tried to say something, but it appeared as if he had grown a new mouth as the flesh parted allowing the blood to come forth.

    The red liquid washed over his chest as he fell to his knees in the snow. He looked up at me and I stood there. Watching. I heard the footsteps in the snow and I knew without looking that the Eastlander whom had been cheering him on earlier was now running for the gates, and I watched. The toppled over sideways and floundered over on his back. I watched as his hands went to his neck quickly trying in a futile motion to retain his life giving blood but it creeped between and around his fingers and hands and the life soon left him. I felt amazing.

    I staggered once as the pain hit me. Oh the pain was great. The arrow was still sticking from my side and my hand brushed against it, but I quickly pushed it away. I looked to see the others regain their footing as i searched the gnome over. One hundred and fifty six gold....it was hardly a smal amount considered to what I spent. The blades were nothing special and the armor just standard. I was disappointed.

    I reached down and grasped onto the gnome's armor and as my hand did I flashed again. I recalled that bandit priest staring at me. I shrugged it off and hauled the lifeless gnome up quickly. I could feel his body already cold from the chill night air as I dumped his tiny frame over my shoulder. I was taking him to Jiyyd. Like some trophey. I suppose since he carried nothing of value he was truely poor. He deserved a proper burial.

    Vroka's assistant cut the skin around the arrow with a tiny knife. I nearly fell over from the shock of it. He yanked it out in a clean motion and before i could scream out in pain he had his magics flowing through my body. But the pain remained. It was a reminder I suppose as it left a scar. Despite the healing magics it left a scar.

    I sit here now wondering why I went after that gnome. What truely was it that made me want to kill him. I suppose it was that he was robbing people. And in all honesty, who would miss a lone gnome thief? No one would and I knew it and he certainly was skilled. I wonder now if he sits with his god trying to figure out still how it happened. Hadn't he killed everyone or had them down? Had he really missed that figure dressed in the darkest blacks? I hope he remembers though. I hope even in death he can recall the last moments of his life, as the man whom he tried to kill stood over and watched as he died.

  • G

    The Gnome II

    I heard her scream through the trees and I felt myself running, then walking, then creeping through the shadows. The arrows he fired dripped of acid and bit into the flesh of the young lady, and Sierra. My Sierra. Whatever I thought about the act of robbery it was quickly overruled. I nocked an arrow into the shortbow I rarely use. It was a cutting arrow. The kind that will cause you to bleed like a stuck pig.

    The gnome was agile, but the arrow was fast and bit into his armor. Somehow it was just a grazing shot. Our eyes met for a short moment. It felt as if time had slowed just for us. I smiled as I saw him go for his quiver to fire another arrow and I did the same. The acid burnt into my skin…the pain was incredible. I turned on my heels. I was no match for him with my bow and he had a defenite advantage. Though what it was I could not say.

    He ran as I cleard the trees. I slumped against the trunk of the tree breathing heavy gasps as the air came slowly but the taste of the sweet liquid refreshed me. I pulled the healing potions from my pouch with both hands. The cork removed by my teeth and spit to the snow before I gulped them down quickly. The wounds healed, but I was foolish. In my pain and excitement I had left an arrow in my side. The potions cured the flesh around it before I knew what happened. It would have to remain.

    I stalked through the snow. My eyes glancing to the snow looking for any sign of blood. There was a few tiny drops where the gnome was first standing when hit, but not much after. He had ducked into the brush again and the chase was on. He and I both taking to the shadows. Waiting till someone slipped. He did first.

    She screamed out in pain as the arrows rocked her frame. She stumbled and fell to the ground and murmed only a few words before the darkness overtook her. She pointed and that was what I needed to know. Sierra and I stood behind a clump of trees discussing. While we spoke the gnome laid his traps. Not very well I might add. Sierra pointed to them and the gnome fired on her once, twice, again and again until she retreated to the shadows.

    I took the opportunity to slip from the shadows, crawling on all fours through the darkness and snow. I had to laugh as I saw the poorly laid traps and with my shortsword I made quick work of the wire trigger that he had placed. I slipped back to my shadowy sanctuary and peered out as the gnome approached Gaylan. The young mage didn't stand a chance.

    I inched upon the gnome carefully and I listened to my own steps as I did. To me I sounded like a herd of cattle being rounded up, but he never heard a thing. That is until my hand slipped around his neck. A mistake. I would not make that one again. He spun on his heels ducking low. He had Gaylan's coin purse in his hand and tucked it away with such quickness. Again I was impressed.

    The blades came out fast as I immediatly went on the offensive. My surprise was blown and he was fast. As fast as I was easily if not more. I lunged out with Frostbite only to find air. The shortsword following suit quickly, but the gnome again ducked low. His size was truely an advantage. I had wanted someone to spar with for a while and it seems I had found a worthy opponent. He was better though. By far he was better.

    I heard footsteps and talking in the snow approaching from the north. I only hoped it was someone whom I knew. I had realized quickly that this might be more than I could handle alone. The gnome mocked me once while he parried my strikes, then the spells came. My hands went into a blur in front of me as Mirkali's spell of speed shot through my body. If my mind was not racing before it surely was now. Then the spells rocked into the gnome and I could see the look on his face. He felt that.

    Frostbite lunged and slashed as my left hand felt beneath my cloak for the slender wand. I pulled it out in a flash and uttered the magic word that would release it's magic. The twin missles blasted right into the gnomes face and he staggered. Quickly Frostbite darted back into the scabbard and I reached behind my back for the two rapiers strapped there and they came out in a flash. Shining bit into the gnome's shoulder and he staggered again.

    He ran then chasing Mirkali or was it Lilly...It blurs together now but he did turn his back and run. Every step he took he felt the twin missles bite into him though. I uttered the words fast now. I was overcome, but the emotion was familiar, but strange. The gnome would fall or I would this night.

    With a smile etched on my face beneath my mask I felt my feet quickly moving before I realized what I was doing. I was chasing this gnome. The gnome who could easily best me in combat I knew. It wasn't that I felt that mirkali and the others were a help, but I knew they would provide me with what I needed. A distraction.

    The gnome bled from his nose and mouth now as the magic bashed into his face and chest again and again. The wand's power was full when I had pulled it, but it was quickly half that now. Over twenty times had i uttered the command words and watched as the twin missles bashed into him. He was on the run now and I was in pursuit.