And so it begins

[Moridanu]

*The sun slipped quickly behind the mountains, plunging Morthika into darkness as a small sliver of a moon was now vaguely visible through the leaves of the trees that surrounded Kendelah. Despite the darkness, the streets around the palace were a hive of activity. A local market had gone longer than expected, and the small narrow alleyways were lined with fairylights and candles, the lights illuminating the road on which the duo walked meaning it was not long before Moridanus presence was noticed. Within minutes, people were lining up on the side of the road; waving and throwing flower petals at the Queen and Crowe as they walked past.

Walking with her head held high, Moridanu adjusted her walk to be one of royalty as she rolled her eyes at Crowe and grinned briefly before waving to the residents of Kendelah. Word of Crowe’s disappearance and feared death had spread quickly throughout the small kingdom, therefore a lot of people gasped in happiness to see the dark warrior in his rightful place by the Queens side. One young girl was especially happy as she burst out of the crowd and threw herself at Crowe, squealing how happy she was to see he was unhurt. Moridanu laughed softly as the guards moved forward and detached the girl from Crowe, allowing the two of them to enter into the palace grounds.

Once the gate was closed and locked, Moridanu let out a long deep breath as her shoulders slumped slightly and she stared up at the night sky above her. A deep plum colour, the sky seemed heavy and full of the anticipation of an approaching storm, though in truth no clouds were visible. Sighing again, Moridanu looked up at the palace that had been her home for as long as she could remember and she felt a slight smile crease her lips. The smile broadened as she turned to Crowe and linked her arm in his.

~Come, I shall have someone draw ye a bath..~ she led him into the palace, brushing aside the servants that rushed to offer their services to her until she found someone from housekeeping.

~Master needs a hot bath, somethin’ hot t’eat and a good nights rest.. see that he gets it..~ kissing him quickly on his slightly scruffy cheek, Moridanu sent Crowe off with the woman, calling out to him that she would be in her den after midnight if he should happen to seek her out.

Once he was gone, she took an hour for herself to bathe and dress before she called for a meeting with her three main Generals in her den. Without Crowe by her side, she was hesitant about her ability to govern the war movement, but she handled herself with the knowledge and wisdom of a woman in her element. She listened carefully to the reports from the Generals before asking for additional information such as the progress the soldiers were making with training and weapons, their location and the necessity to step things up a bit. After informing them of the recent developments, she agreed to accompany General Goranson to the front battle tent so that they could review their battle plan.

Several exhausting hours later Moridanu left the tent, rubbing her aching shoulders as she looked up to the sky again. The position of the moon told he it was now closer to midnight and she wondered if Crowe was asleep by now. Hoping that he was indeed awake and waiting for her, but unsure as to why she hoped this, Moridanu slowly made her way back across the fields until she was in Kendelah once more. The thought of war, and the ability to remain detached enough to lead the troops to victory weighed heavily on her mind and Moridanu nodded grimly as she realised tomorrow it would start to take shape. The Generals had their orders, the first set of troops would be moving out tomorrow. War was about to start, one that would change Morthika forever. It was only when the palace finally came into view did her sombre thoughts relinquish their hold on her harried mind. The palace looked warm and inviting and Moridanu smiled to the guard who opened the gate for her. Finally, she was home. With a slight spring in her step, she bounced up the stairs and disappeared inside. Once in her den, she lit a fire and kicked off her boots. Sprawling out on the large dark red chasis by the fire, Moridanu lay with her long auburn curls fanned out on the burgundy fabric. Her brilliant emerald eyes stared into the flames as she lay there, trying to unwind her troubled mind enough to make sleep a possibility some time this eve… *

[lucien]

Lucien's troops were moving out, he wished to catch the wench's troops off guard. The sun had a few hours to go before it would break the darkness, so far things were going as he desired. He walked amidst them, yet still stood out. After a while longer of marching he and his minions came upon the place that the two sides were to fight, night had still yet to break. The entire march there, not one of his minions stopped chanting "The Bitch will die!"

Moridanu's troops were no where to be seen, so he decided to send her a little message in a dream. The dream was of her forces being slaughtered, of his form towering above her glaring at her with hatred in his eyes. His minions chanting "The Bitch will die!" over and over. Her precious Crowe being torn limb from limb and eaten by his minions, his heart still beating. The heart was then brought over to Lucien by one of his minions. He grasped it, and bit into it with his sharp teeth. Then the beating stopped. Where is your mother now?

Lucien ordered his troops to conceal themselves until the troops of Moridanu were visible. He alone would stand in plain view, waiting.

[Moridanu]

*Her brow furrowed slightly as she began to dream. Rivers of blood flowed by her feet, the blood of her men who had sworn their allegiance, and in turn; their lives to her. Guilt consumed her, only just managing to overcome the sense of grief she felt as she gazed down in horror at the fallen men before her. Lucien’s minions marched onward, stomping over the bodies of her soldiers as they all chanted “The Bitch Will Die!”. A searing stabbing pain in her heart, told her that Crowe was in danger and she screamed out loud as she watched him being torn limb from limb. The last image that danced before her was the form of Lucien standing above her and leering down at her..

The scream did not stay in the dream world; instead it tore from her open mouth like a bat out of hell. Crowe, who had been slowly making his way up the hall towards her den, now quickened his pace before breaking into a run. Racing into her den, his dark eyes were tinged with concern and fear as he looked around for the cause of the screaming. Finding nothing but Moridanu sprawled out on the red chaises lounge, blinking quickly as her eyes tried to focus, Crowe slid to a halt.

~Mori? Whatever happened?~

She blushed slightly as she struggled to sit up.

~A nightmare I suppose..~ she murmured. ~ Yet.. it seemed so real.. ~ she shuddered at the memory of the horrible images of Crowe being tortured before her, rubbing her arms to dispel the sudden outbreak of gooseflesh that rippled over her. Seeing her discomfort, Crowe walked quickly over to her desk. After rummaging around for a few minutes, he returned triumphant with a large bejewelled bottle and two golden goblets.

~I think we deserve a drink tonight, do y’not?~ he grinned. ~The liquor will warm ye..~. Handing her a goblet, he sipped from his own as he watched her. She was jumpy, unusually on edge and it concerned him to see her like this. The impending war hung over the pair, seeming to suck the light and air from the room around them. Crowe sighed heavily as he looked out the window and up at the night sky.

Moridanu stood up and walked over to the window, joining Crowe as she sipped from her goblet. Her feet however, were not content with standing still and they continued to pace anxiously as she strode quickly around the Den, her brow still furrowed. After a few minutes of endless pacing, she stopped. Standing next to a small oak table, she reached down to the one and only drawer inside the table and pulled it open. Hidden inside was the amulet that her old friend Shen the Demon Lord had given her. He had told her to wear it in times of battle, that it would keep her strong and safe. Rubbing the image of the lion, she closed her eyes as she offered a silent prayer to Shen. ~Watch over me old friend..~ she murmured before slipping the amulet over her neck. Crowe watched her with interest but still said nothing. His dark eyes watched in silence as she picked up her goblet and made her way back to the scarlet chaise lounge. As she settled herself back upon her chair, he longed to join her, to put his arm around her and reassure her that everything would be okay. Yet, he knew he could not. Sighing deeply, he took another sip from the goblet, surprised to find it now empty. As he moved to refill their cups, there was a comfortable silence between them but Crowe knew it would be broken when she was ready. The silence was broken a few moments later, but not by Crowe or Moridanu. A low, loud rumble began to reverberate throughout the castle and Moridanu looked out the large window to see if there were storm clouds about. Seeing nothing but that dark ominous sky looking back at her, she placed her goblet on the table beside her and stood up. Striding over to the French doors, she pulled them open and stepped out onto her balcony, followed quickly by Crowe.

Crowe instinctively placed a protective hand on her lower back as he stood close to her. ~Lucien?~ he growled.

Moridanu peered into the darkness. ~No.. I don’t think so… somethin’s coming though.. somethin’ big..~ *

[Shen Long]

A Deafening blow, a sickening crack, one, two, three, they kept coming rising, with no sword, nor weapon, they would tire him sometime shortly. Shen had been amidst the confines of Limbo for sometime, only slipping in and out of the void to flow to the Luna Eternal, the only verse which had not been closed to the massive Demos.

“Your skin covered with a thousand scars, your sight beginning to fade, your strength and frame waning as I speak.. “ *The sad part? He was right, Shen surrounded and almost out gunned. Dark robed Necromancers grouping for the kill. The speaker laying dead flesh along the great Demos. “Well Shen, Do you give, to bow before our master..? Tell me your answer..” Mumbled words as the Nercomancer’s power seared into his mind, trying to break him, drive him to insanity. Only a few muffled words came from him before the end came. “Say again?..” Sleek ebon wrapping about the throat of the nearest nercomancer, a sickening crack was heard as her head snapped back, her mouth bleeding. The speaker gasping in a gully of pain as he found the massive Demos’ hand clasped tightly about his private areas. Shen rose as a fresh breath of relief came to him then. “It took every one of your Mancers to hold me, and even then I was about to break loose, as for my answer..? Well..” His talons dug deep, pulling out and down, the speaker was castrated almost instantly. Mouthing a few mumbled moans of pain as he found Shen’s palm clasping about the back of his neck. “Send my regards to your master….When you see him in the abyss…Speaker..” Contorting features, sleek ebon, the last thing the speaker would see is Shen’s massive canines sinking ever so deeply into the confines of his throat. Death was then, in mass, talons spreading, rending and tearing their flesh from the bone, not a one would survive

By the time the Nercomancer cavalry had arrived, it was far too late, near close to a hundred men ringed the area. Shen, mounted on a stack of corpses. About were several hundred bones, all stacked in piles with a small patch of cloaks, weapons and knives behind him he chowing down on a young woman’s femur bone, the leg and knee still attached to what was left of the thigh. Eyeing the assaulting force, he shook his head and continued to gnaw upon the femur bone before they began to move. Dropping the leg, and filling his massive eight foot frame before the small legion. “How many more need to die before you all know your beaten? Your strongest of mancers could not down me and my legions, you think your army can down a Greater Demos? Hardly, now clear a path, I have better things to do then play with you whelps…” *They did not..This would be his end then? Or so he thought… It was only a twing of pain and he was gone, the kill circle almost baffled at the monstrous beast’s disappearance.

“Now bitch, your gonna taste me’ an Angus’ hairy cocks and like it!” *A loud yelp was heard as the girl’s muffled moans were heard through the large man’s greasy palms. Her large ample breasts bared as the other man tore and shredded what clothing she had. “Yes, Popit that’s right, enjoy it!” *Another slap to the poor girl’s face as the man found himself undoing his trousers. Arching sky, crackling lighting struck only mere feet from the rapist, Shen’s hulking frame materializing and falling forward over the girl just as the man was about to insert himself as the lighting and the beast appeared. Massive silver glinting as his demonic gaze fell upon the frail fragile form of the tortured girl. “Care package from the Gods, Little Lady?” Soft blue eyes stained with tear as a mere whisper was whimpered as she looked upon the Great monolithic man. “Rape…” That was all he needed, and they had been judged, contorted features as coven talons ripped into the pant-less man’s throat, well into spinal cord and other the other side. Severed head sprawled into the trees beyond as the body fell back spewing in great spats. As the woman grasped for land, the other man, Angus, withdrew a large hunting knife, but as the Great turned on him, he found himself running for his life. Fleeing into the night Angus ran for his life.

“Don’t kill me!” “Girl, I’m not going to kill you, I’ve had enough human death for one day!” *His words tiring him as he spoke, he sighed and unfolded his massive ebon wings from his backside, silver tips glinting in the moonlite cove. “Who leads this Land, Girl?” “Oh….ah..that would be Queen Moridanui, Great one..” *His gaze froze and his heart skipped upon itself as he wrapped a pale cloak around the girl’s nake form, and took to the sky. Has it been so long before the little one needed to summon him once more? So be it, the Queen called for her Champion and Beast would answer this day. Landing some ways outside the city. “Lead me to your, Leader girl..” *With a timid nod, they set off into the city.

The girl’s pace quickened as massive giant strolled behind her, ushering through the crowd and people like no other, massive frame standing well above the other patrons of the market and street. The people clearing a path for him as his glinting silver pupil ushered upward. After some time he would find himself in a nicer section of the city only to find his path barred. Mountains flowing about him as if a fortress or something was being held within. Many a guard stood before him. Nudging the timid girl and grinning wildly.*”Perhaps I should tell them you carry the plague and your last wish to hug their queen?” The young peasant young girl, gave him an almost astonished look upon her timid features. “Well it’s that or, you cut through the left side, I’ll be more then busy with the right and we storm the castle. Kill the guards, murder each of the nobles and rape all the women….” *Yet again the girl’s face shook, almost bringing tear as his face began to contort, a soft hand along his forearm to assure him.* “Lord, take to the sky….the lady is in waiting..”*Ebon sleek wing unfolding a large gust wind, and a satchel of gold later, the peasant girl, no longer in enslavement but freedomThe girl’s pace quickened as massive giant strolled behind her, ushering through the crowd and people like no other, massive frame standing well above the other patrons of the market and street. The people clearing a path for him as his glinting silver pupil ushered upward. After some time he would find himself in a nicer section of the city only to find his path barred. Mountains flowing about him as if a fortress or something was being held within. Many a guard stood before him. Nudging the timid girl and grinning wildly.*”Perhaps I should tell them you carry the plague and your last wish to hug their queen?” The young peasant young girl, gave him an almost astonished look upon her timid features. “Well it’s that or, you cut through the left side, I’ll be more then busy with the right and we storm the castle. Kill the guards, murder each of the nobles and rape all the women….” *Yet again the girl’s face shook, almost bringing tear as his face began to contort, a soft hand along his forearm to assure him.* “Lord, take to the sky….the lady is in waiting..”*Ebon sleek wing unfolding a large gust wind, and a satchel of gold later, the peasant girl, no longer in enslavement but freedom

“Has it been so long, that you need my help once more little one? Have your lands separated so wide that you needed a bridge to breech that gap, hmm?” *Echoing words as he set down only mere feet before her. Long talons lifting her chin softly as his massive ebon wings clipping against his chest as he stood before he, the moonlight glinting over his wings like a great lantern in the night.* “No words for your Champion, milady?”

[Isabella Rastafari]

( RP session between Moridanu and Shen)

Moridanu: *He appeared suddenly before her, his massive wings bringing forth his bulky mass like a surge of waves upon a rocky shore. With her heart hammering in her chest, she allowed his talon to raise her chin as she looked him in the eye. ~It has been too long, old friend."~ *

ShenLongTheFirst: Shen’s singular eye glinted as he looked down into her eyes, and licked his lips softly. Shen stood roughly at an eight foot height, and bore a mass of six hundred pounds of sheer muscle. Long ebon wings curling about him, each of his wings was tipped with silver, even in the moonlight he was stunning more so now then in the day.* “Are you scared little one? I can feel your heart racing, or are you aroused? You know it’s been quite some time I was….Nevermind, What worries your mind and heart to summon a champion, Your Champion from the abyss, little one?”

“It must be something in force to make your knees shake and summon a Demos Lord..” *Slurred words as he leant his massive broad features downward to touch them against her brow, before turning himself to gaze over the area below, massive wings draped about him like a cloak, his long tail slowly tracing behind his form. * “So long has it been that I have been in the darkness, so much death, tis good to see a friendly face in this world..”

Moridanu: *She smiled defiantly at him as he asked if she was scared, and she laughed deep in her throat when he suggested she might be arroused. ~ I assure ye Shen, m'quickened hearbeat be out of sheer pleaure and excitement at seeing an old friend again..I have not forgotten' how ye have helped me in t'past, and I be hopin' ye be able t'do so again..~

She squared her shoulders and walked over to join him as he stood looking down at the gardens below. Smiling softly at the Sunflowers she and Crowe had planted as a child, Moridanu spoke quietly as though she were afraid someone should hear her that was neither Shen or Crowe, who stood nearby.

~Tis Lucien.. he has arisen his dark armies once more.. the balance between light and dark is shifting and blood will be shed.. it can not be avoided.. it must be done. I ask ye..My Champion.. to be m'champion on the battlefield. I have yet to see ye in ye full glory, doing what ye do best, so please.. I implore thee.. seek my vengence on Lucien and his army.~ *

ShenLongTheFirst: Unclipping the light hooked fingers in which held his massive broad glinting wings together he undid them. Lifting them from the ground to slowly wrap his right wing about Mori’s small form, pulling her close to him.* “If I am to die, then aye, I will, slaughter his army on the battle field. A thousand, ten thousand, mortal men and beasts can be defeated..”
His words trailed as he lifted his hand softly, placing it along under her nose to tickle her.* “I’ll need to see one of your smiths, to help me forge some armor. As for you little one..” *Grinning slowly, he lifted her chin.* “I can feel him, he has a massed quite a sizable army around, nothing one man can stand to hold the tide against..”
“But against a Demos..” *Words came from him as he slowly ruffled her hair.* “You should calm down, Little one, I will not bed you this not, your heart, your mind thinking in tongues to make mortal men…tremble.” *He laughed as he toyed with himself.* “So much to be done then, Little one..But from now on, you shall sleep soundly during the night.”

Moridanu: *She felt instantly at peace, reassured by his words and lulled into a sense of security, however false. The night was still around them, and the pleasant fragant air smelled nothing like the scents that would pervade her nostrils over the upcoming nights. The stench of rotting flesh, of flowing blood.. the thought of so much destruction caused her to gag and she moved back over to her table to pick up the bejeweled bottle that Crowe had delivered only moments before. Swigging from the bottle, Moridanu took a long gulp before she wiped her mouth and smiled at Shen.

~I hope ye words are the truth.. while I fear that they may not be however, they do help me to sleep more soundly tonight, knowing ye are here.

The first troops are already moving into position. By first light the first wave will be attacking..~ she shuddered at the thought of the dreaded upcoming war.*



ShenLongTheFirst: *Unbending both wings, fanning them outward, his wingspand clear close to twenty feet, he slowly folded them as he slowly entered the room, looking at her close, as he did, he leant his head down. A crackling sound was heard as his long black hair became a thick mane. Massive canines fanning outward from his mouth as his face and features began to contort.

Eyeing his five fingers as they began to glow with a searing flames of the verse, four fingers becoming two, sleek ebon flowing over his form as two massive horns rose from the massive Lion-man’s beastly features. Snorting lightly as he gazed upon her.* “I’ll leave you then, Little one, I’ll bed you another time, tell your men to bar the gates and form your force inside your walls, I’ll turn back the first wave..
Draping his wings over his massive form, he stepped out onto the balcony and fanned them out, before she knew it, he had taken to the air without a sound, massive wings shimmering as he moved *


~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~


After he was gone, Moridanu looked to Crowe. Although she smiled at him hopefuly and told him that she had faith that all would now be well, Crowe could see the truth in her eyes. She looked tired. And scared. Forgetting all his self imposed restrictions, Crowe stepped closer to Moridanu and wrapped one strong arm around her waist, pulling her backwards so that she could lean her back and head against his chest. She suprised him by turning around and placing her face on his broad chest as she hugged him tightly. His other hand moved slowly to wrap around her until they were both hugging each other in a moment of pure togetherness. Neither spoke for several moments, but it was Crowe that finaly broke the embrace.

~Come.. youre exhausted. The Generals are in place.. let them do their job and lead the first wave. Shen is there now.. let him represent you. For now.. you should sleep.~

Silently she nodded and took his offered hand, allowing him to lead her to her private chambers. He stopped just short of stepping over the threshold to her bedroom and gave her a shy, lopside grin that threatened to break her heart.

~May your dreams be sweet and your sleep restful..~ he murmured as he closed the door behind her. Moridanu stared at the closed door for a few moments before she sighed and made her way over to her empty bed. Pulling back the dark purple satin sheets, she slipped between the covers, shivering. After tossing and turning for an hour, she finally rose and pulled two feathered quilts out of her blanket box at the end of the bed. Snuggling down into her new found warmth, Moridanus mind could no longer bare to think of the war, and instead turned to love. Both Crowe and ODK's faces danced before her, both men making her feel so very differently. When she fell asleep a few moments later, it was with a confused smile upon her lips, though it wasnt clear which man she was dreaming about, if any.

[Moridanu]

*Moridanu’s lids fluttered slightly as she slowly woke from a deep sleep. The soft rosy glow of early morning unlight streamed through her bedroom window, and all seemed right with the world. For a split fraction of a second that was, until reality hit.

Today was to be the first day of the war. Lucien already had his troops in place, as did her generals. She hoped to keep the battle limited solely to the battlefields but she feared with a heavy heart that she would not be able to keep her beloved Kendelah safe. As she slid from beneath the sheets and padded over to her adjoining bath, Moridanus brow creased with worry as visions of bloodshed and missing limbs flittered across her eyes.

After bathing and dressing quickly in battle ready garb of brown soft pants and a pale green stitched shirt that clung to her lithe frame like a second protective skin, Moridanu took a moment for herself to stand on her balcony and look down upon her rose garden. All the flowers were in bloom, as they always would be in her garden, and her lips threatened to crease into a contented smile as she breathed in the heady scent. The palace was silent around her, in breathless anticipation of the impending war and she breathed in the silence in an effort to quiet the raging emotions that screamed within her soul. She longed for guidance, for someone to come and save the day. But she knew without doubt that that duty rested solely on her own shoulders. Feeling alone beyond measure, she reached out for ODK with her heart and mind. Calling to him with a cooling wind, she hoped that he would get her message and return to the palace in time to escort her to the battle-front. Until then, she was alone. Crowe was still keeping his distance, as they both knew that he should, but although he could not give her the love she craved, he could offer his support. She needed someone by her side on this day of days, and she knew that her borne protector would be the man to be there.

With steps that felt like lead, Moridanu left her suite and walked down the hallway to Crowes quarters. Knocking loudly on the door, she called out a greeting before waiting for him to answer her*

[Benito Senfetti]

(Posting as Crowe since I just cannot remember my password type thingy so yeah...This is Crowe.)

It wasnt as if Mori's advice was something he didnt want to take. He had wanted the rest, the food, and most of all the rest that she had directed him to get. Moving only a few times in the morning to the warming of the air he was sleeping peacefully right up until Mori came to his chamber doors and knocked upon it calling out to him, he had gone to sleep in the clothes he had been wearing so feeling confident he rose up onto the edge of his bed and sat there holding his head in a mid-morning delirium before he looked towards the door and greeted Mori also.

"I am up and quite proper Moridanu, Please come on in" Crowe's mind ran rampant with all that was happening, not that anything beyond his childhood wasnt anything but hectic and all the while the one he was meant to protect from his childhood was an object of his love unexpressed. Crowe knew how much of this needed to be kept to himself and he knew that there were bigger fish to fry on this horizon and he was bound damn determined to see his Queen through this alive even if that meant his own life. Mori he felt knew that all too well and he could not imagine the inumerable amount of pressure that was now weighing down on her about all of this.

[Moridanu]

*Moridanu had entered Crowes chambers with a smile and had emerged from them a short while later with Crowe in tow. The old friends continued the rest of the way throughout the castle in silence, until they came out into the garden. Turning to look at Crowe, Moridanu took his hands in hers as she leant forward and kissed him softly on the lips. A lone tear slipped from her shimmering emerald orbs as she whispered ~Whatever happens, please know, that ye were loved. May our Mighty Mother be with us now in our time of need..~Sighing deeply, she looked up at the sky, still dark and ominous with thick heavy thunderheads looming overhead.

~Its time.. ~ she murmered, and began to shift into her aerial form. In moments, a black smudge could be visible against the dark purple as the raven that she was flew to the battlefield. Crowe flew beside her and the beauty of the two of them in flight together was not lost on her, despite the grievous tone of their endeavour. All too soon they arrived at the battlefield, shifting to their human form as they landed. Taking a deep breath and a moment to run a hand through her tumble of amber curls, Moridanu cast one last glance at Crowe before marching into the large tent that was situated in the middle of the battlement.

Inside the tent, a large table covered in maps was situated to one side of the floor while another table was a sea of candles, talismans, potions and spells that might prove useful in battle. Moridanu nodded at the men present in the room as she strode in and tried to look like the woman in charge that she truly was.

~Gentlemen, I apologise for my tardiness and do thankyou for your continued support and presence in this time of war.

Already, too much time has wasted, and now that we are all gathered, I propose….~ her eyes peered around the room. ~We ARE all gathered are we not? My four generals have arrived? Mercy? Where are you? And Oona? Has she arrived yet.. ? What about Harper? And Sehkem?It is imperative that my four generals are ready to begin.. I must have all elements in position..~ she began to pace back and forth. ~I want to start all attacks from the different quarters, precisely at the same time. Lucien will be expecting a head on attack, and he shall get one. But it shall be only one attack of many, from every other angle imaginable.. ~ she trailed off, her emerald orbs glinting with steely determination as she paused to look around the tent in more detail to see if the chosen four were in fact in attendance.*

[The Joshness ™]

He had been sitting on the ledge of a cliff overlooking a massive valley that stretched off into the distance. The Angel of Mercy was clad in black clothing and armor with delicate and bright golden trim and designs placed in various locations. His chest was shrouded by a solid black silk Tabard with a large golden cross that seemed to glow in some way. There was a gust of wind and Mercy’s long block locks flowed in it seamlessly as if it were underwater. Mercy watched out in the horizon with his blueish grey eyes that seemed so old, worn if you will, ancient as time. He wasn’t extremely tall or massively built. As a matter of fact, he was perfectly proportioned to give him the perfect build. His face, although shaped as if it was crafted by the finest touch, is littered with various scars from his lengthy time on this planet. His hands were clad in blackened leather gloves with gold plated armor on them like the rest of him, placing this hand on the ground he gazes into the horizon squinting slowly “They Ride…”

Materializing out of, well, nowhere, Mercy was now in the presence of his leader. He was a slight mist at first but quickly solidified to the view of everyone. His armor seemed to bring a certain light to the room as he did, the golden trim just made a glow off of his own naturally bright aura. “You called for me, Moridanu? I come baring news of the enemy and status on my soldiers.” He smiled wholesomely to her, embracing her with a generous hug then a grin “I trust you have gathered some of the knowledge you quested for?” Mercy looked about “As for the other generals, im not sure what they are up to these days, lately ive been focusing on the strength of my Paladins. They have almost reached their full potential, but their mounts need a big improvement. I was scouting just now and I can feel them. Somewhere out in the direction of Lucien a movement arises. We need to plan now before it becomes too late.”

Mercy was indeed an ‘Angel’, but to be more specific, a Seraph. The Highest order of angels. He, like his brother Lucifer was created by God with 12 wings that signified his importance. He was created to posses others and give them the strength to take their lives when they had nothing but pain in their future, also the ability to posses others to do it. But when God decided Mercy was no a Sin, he was condemned to the same punishment as Lucifer only he didn’t quite take it to the extreme Lucifer did. He has been mucking about through time trying to keep himself occupied and such, he now finds himself a General of Moridanu’s army, where he is training a small army of Paladin soldiers taught in his Holy powers. Nobody, including Moridanu has yet to see his full Seraph glory, few have, and those who have are already dead. His mission of Righteousness did not end with his servitude to God, because now he is a tool of Moridanu. May she guide him down the path he deserves.

[Catrux]

Sehkem was with his ranks, testing their arial abilities. At first he had been quite surprised when offered the position as head of the arial force, then as he thought about it he seemed to be the logical choice. Another thing that surprised the Vinyakin was that the soldiers so readily took to what he said and followed. When a messenger approached to inform him that Moridanu was looking for him, Sehkem had been taking them through last minute drills. Nodding to the messenger, Sehkem told his soldiers to rest since they would undoubtably need it.

Despite the war, Sehkem still donned his usuall garb which included his black pants, scythes and his recently acguired swords, the only changes were that he no longer wore his trench coat and had armor specially desinged for his wings. The armor made the back of his wings look as though they were made of solid metal. The joints of the armor were flawless, the craftsmen truly did great work, then again he hadn't bothered to find out if it was magical or not. Accompanied by the sound of metal clanking together, Sehkem entered the tent.

"Forgive me of my tardiness, you summoned me?" Sehkem glanced about the tent noticing one individual in particular. He was unmistakably angelic bearing 12 wings. Turning his attention back to Moridanu he gave a status report, "The arial division is doing exceptionally well save for one area, stealth. As long as they need not be too much of a surprise element they will be fine. It is exceptionally hard to get that many wings to beat quietly."

Sehkem didn't bother to mention anything seeing as no one would be able to diagnose him since no one knew what he was, but the closer he got to the battle grounds the more odd of a sensation he got. Eventually he decided it was nothing more than nervousness, though he felt very confident. There is no need to worry about it now, things will take care of them selves in time.

[Harper]

(::Smirktease:: So yeah...this is Harper. Obviously.)

::Harper received her summons while in deep discussion of battle tactics with the leader of the Elven archers, Liriope Caelaresti. The women were long-time friends and this would not be the first time they joined on the battlefield. Holding a self-drawn sketch of the area open before her, the numerous armies gathered and their positions indicated with the appropriate symbols, her eyes closed and she paused as though listening for something only she could hear. A human among elves, it was unlikely Harper heard anything but that within her mind before they did. She immediately recognized the unique feeling for what it was, a call from the only person as close to the priestess as the Elven archer she stood with now, Moridanu. Perceptive as ever, Liriope laid a gloved hand on Harper’s shoulder as she reached for the map with the other. Effortlessly she rolled the parchment and slipped it into quiver at her shoulder among the arrows housed there.::

‘Go, friend. This will wait. We will continue when you return. Until then.’

“How well you know me, Lir. Yes, until then.”

::Smiling, Harper returned the gesture with a firm pat on the back. The trip back to the main tent wasn’t a long one and in typical Harper fashion, she’d conquered the distance between her and it in no more than a minute. Swift and silent movement was made much easier for the fact that she wore little over her ceremonial robes of ivory silk and gauze. What armor she did possess was a gift from the Elves and consisted of a leather corselet with attached pauldrons, matching gauntlets and knee high boots. Although she moved through the open among the swarms of soldiers, some her own and many not, it was her gift to go unseen. When, at last, she stepped into the tent with Moridanu and the others, she had somehow escaped the bustling grounds completely unnoticed.

Without a sound Harper announced her arrival to Morridanu through the link of their friendship and took a place off to her right. She nodded respectfully to their leader and the two generals present, then clasped her hands and waited for the fourth to join them. When it seemed the time, she offered news of her and the elves’ positions.::

“My army is in position and Liriope assures me that the archers are situated as well. We await your command, my friend.”

[Crowe]

(Apologies in advance if this is a bit disjointed or short - I've a lot of catching up to do after being gone for two years) ;D

----------------------------

Crowe surveyed the situation with pride. The amassed army was far bigger than the one that he commanded back home, and with so many capable hands leading the individual units, he was almost certain of Lucien's impending defeat.

Lucien...

He didn't want to alarm Mori, but Crowe had picked up trace hints of a dream she had had the previous night which involved the cretin himself. A quick count of his limbs assured him that it was all just a dream, but Crowe resolutely refused to send any trace of fear pulsing down the eternal cord that linked the strategist to his charge. To do so now, to impart even an iota of fear, would be catastrophic to the cause for which the forces had assembled. His responsibility was heavy, and this weight entirely his own.

Knowing that Mori would receive his trembling vibrations lest he intervened, Crowe quickly improvised and shouted, "I say, m'lady, what happened to your horse?" in a rich, Scottish accent that was not his own, but reminiscent of one who had traveled with them so long ago. He had hoped that the jest would calm both of their nerves; however, it grated on Crowe to remember the ones who had fallen to the wayside in this battle. The memory of every victim rested squarely on his shoulders as he vowed to avenge all of the lost souls hastened to the other side by the madman who intended to feast on his head. The dangling limbs haunted Crowe, but he put them out of his mind by once more beaming at the masses before him. As long as Crowe still drew breath, Lucien wouldn’t be winning any psychological battles.

"Damn it all, this waiting is the worst part!" Crowe stomped impatiently. His usually cool exterior was beginning to melt away under the intensity of the scene laid out before him. He had spent his entire life preparing for this battle and he was ready to go. All that they needed were the remaining generals... and a codified battle plan.

[Oona Ondessa]

The earth began to rumble.

Was it Lucien's and his forces? Had they attacked? Was it the twisted perversion of nature Lucien called magic? No…

It was emanating from the east, Moridanu's jurisdiction, dust and dirt was moving like a wave towards the tent and the surrounding armies, it wasn't long before it passed and an ethereal figure could be seen at the forefront, riding an enormous stag.

It was Oona Ondessa. Behind her an army of Tree Spirits, Foxes, Wolves, Bears, Beavers, Crows and every other animal that lived in the Black Moss Forest. They had all pledged their allegiance to Oona a long time ago, as Oona had done to Moridanu. Oona was a shockingly beautiful creature, dark and brooding, her pale complexion almost had a purple tint to it, her large magnetic eyes were a penetrating purple and her long black hair streamed behind her, purple beads and braids were woven into the long silken mane. Her black facial tattoos were prettily woven around her right eye, they almost appeared to shift and move and change colour. The tattoos travelled all the way down her arms and chest, delicate loops, thorns and circles.

Oona was dressed for battle; she wore a sleeveless purple corset style tunic, black leather pants. Knee high purple combat boots and a long purple cloak that dragged on the ground behind her like a brides wedding trail. The Material was undistinguishable; it was rimmed with brilliant blue and red archaic patterns.

Oona was an elf, but unlike any elf that had walked the earth before her, and possibly after. Her ears were long and pointed pierced and tattooed heavily, her origins were even a mystery to Oona, all she knew for certain is that an ancient Willow tree in the black Moss forest gave birth to her… how exactly? Nobody knows.

As Oona got closer she turned around and addressed her army, the animals and tree Spirits nodded, they began to move into position. The Tree Spirits would remain at the rear; they looked like living breathing moving trees, with handsome faces and glowing yellow eyes. The Stag stopped at the tent suddenly and reared up in alarm, its hooves came crashing down with a loud bang on the dirt below. With all the grace of her heritage, Oona leaped off the back of her Stag and made her way into the tent

"Moridanu my queen, I have terrible news from the Black Moss Forest"

Oona said gravely, anybody that knew Oona knew she was rarely scared and never intimidated so for Oona to come barging into the tent without the proper introductions, her news was something to be feared. Oona stopped for a split second, she had never met Crowe before, not properly anyway, His essence was unusual, similar to Moridanu's but different at the same time, for some reason it intrigued Oona… It was familiar.

She ignored the sensation and turned back to Moridanu and addressed everyone in the tent

"My Queen, I have news that Elyza has gotten hold of an ancient weapon from another realm known as the Phoenix Blade, I don’t know what it does exactly but it's powerful, possibly beyond anything we've ever faced…".

[Moridanu]

*Despite the fifty or so souls that had gathered around Moridanu as she prepared to send them all off into battle, it was Crowe’s energy that shone the brightest for her in that dark, gloomy tent. Using their cosmic bond to its full extent, she leant heavily on him and drew on his strength, although to anyone else in the room it would appear as if she was merely standing near him. Although he tried to keep it hidden from her, she sensed his deep sense of foreboding that he attempted to cover up with his usual wit and humour. Turning once to look at him, her emerald orbs locked with his dark ones and she nodded briskly as his thoughts reached her, though a smile failed to reach her lips. Apparently in agreement with her, he himself finally allowed his emotions to show as he complained that waiting was the worst part. Well, the waiting was something she could stop. It was time. Finally, squaring her shoulders she turned to address her generals and the other members of her war counsel who had gathered here at the Pithmoore Plains.

Before a word could escape her lips however, she was aware of the powerful essence of a large stag at the doorway of the tent before Oona Ondessa herself strode into the tent, bringing with her tales of an alarming nature. Moridanus’ skin bristled at the mention of the Elyza and she looked to Crowe in alarm as she heard that Elyza had in fact claimed the Phoenix Blade for herself.

~Dammit! I had hoped the Other Demon Keeper would foil Lucien in his attempt at getting the blade and we could wield the blade in the fight for good and light. Apparently, my hopes were in vain.. Why did it have to be Elyza of all creatures?? She is a vile, disgusting waste of space.. one that has already proven far too powerful for my liking.. and now.. with the blade.. ~ she trailed off as she realised her panicked rambling’s were not what her people needed to hear from her right now. Taking a deep breath, she tried to steady herself as she continued.

~This is t’most dire of news I had feared, though tis important we keep things in perspective. I have beaten Lucien before, with a lot less than we have now, and we shall beat him again. Of this I be certain!~ she spoke with a lot more certainty than she felt in her heart however, but she hoped that that the others would not see through her crumbling façade . Taking another deep breath, she ran a hand through her amber curls as she focused her attention back on the upcoming battle.

Right on cue, a small goblin by the name of Grizden stepped forward and handed Moridanu a rolled up map. Taking it with a word of thanks, she motioned for the others to follow her as she stepped over to the large table that was already covered with similar maps and parchments. Spreading this map out on the table, Moridanu pointed with her finger to various areas on the map as she spoke, her thick Irish accent causing some of her words to run together as she tried to remain calm.

~Oona, since ye army is already well established in the Black Moss Forest, it will b’their charge t’ keep the Forest safe ‘n’ make sure none of Lucien’s horde find a way t’Kendelah through t’ Forest. While I have confidence you ‘n’ your kin can handle this task with ease, I be also assignin’ you t’ surrounding lands within a 20 mile radius, including t’ Pithmoore Plains. ~ Grizden stepped forward again and handed his Queen a strange looking wooden pen. Moridanu used the pen to circle the area in a dark brown ink and mark it with a large O.

~ Please assemble any of your army that may assist with our aerial attacks as well. While I wont be needing ‘em straight away, I would like t’have ‘em on call in case I be needin’ em in the future.~

Pausing, she looked to Oona, her jade eyes searching Oona’s violet ones for any questions before she continued.

~Harper.. m’old friend..~ Moridanus eyes turned towards Harper, and now a faint smile could be seen at the corners of her soft pink lips.

~It pleases me n’ end to hear the Elven Archers will be out in force. Last time they met with Luciens minions, their victory cry was one of the sweetest sounds to reach my ears.. I only pray I hear it again. While a small portion of y’army will be in charge of guarding Nydesian, I will be requirin’your most able soldiers t’lead t’main attack on foot. We have a lot of our four legged friends housed in t’pens at t’bottom of t’hill. Your army may take its pick with their chosen steeds. They will be supported by t’Elven Archers who shall be hidden in the trees and surrounding foliage of Ellendre. ~Again, she used the wooden pen to circle the area on the map she was indicating, this time though the ink was a dark blue. Moridanu wrote a large H in the middle. She knew that if Harper had any questions her friend would not hesitate to ask. After waiting a few moments to see if any questions would arrise, Moridanu turned her attention to Sehkem. Laughing slightly at his mention of the aerial troops’ difficulty at “stealth” Moridanu waved away his concerns with a flick of her wrist.

~Sehkem.. there will be more than enough noise t’silence the sound of so many beating wings, never fear. Your army will be in charge of this area here..~ she said, circling the area including The Dark Forest and Bendelsain and marking it with a S in dark green ink . ~While I understand your forces have t’largest area to cover, I will also need them on hand for when we choose to advance. For now, our main focus is t’protect Kendelah. Lucien is a jackass of the highest order and he will want to move straight in and attack Kendelah, knowing what it means t’me. I hope to defeat all of his attacking armies, causing him to become so frustrated he sends more and more, leaving his Lair and the Forbidden Forest more unguarded. When this happens, your troops will be the first called upon t’lead the attack. ~ She turned to Mercy.

~And here is where your Paladins come in t’play Mercy.~ She finally circled the area behind The Black Moss Forest and Ellendre, the area closest to the Forbidden Forest. ~ I fear that Luciens troops have already claimed these grounds as their own battlefields, and as such, I think t’first main battle will happen here. Because of this, I need ye to get your troops into position as soon as is able. The edges of Ellendre and the Black Moss Forest should provide more than enough cover for ye men until you are ready to strike, if only Lucien and his minions will hold off until then..~

Looking down at the map, she nodded in satisfaction as she saw that no area of the map was left uncovered.

~Those of ye near or around t’river will have t’use ye judgement t’defend it as best ye can. It will be a main source of transport for both sides, and as such will need t’be claimed as soon as possible. I shall stay here and lead the battles as best I can. While this tent will be my main post, both Crowe and myself will be flying back and forth when needed. Please, keep in contact at all times..~

Finally, she let out a long low breath and looked around at everyone expectantly. ~Anything I missed? Questions?~ *






(( Everyone involved in the war, please take the time to look over the map of Morthika so you can get a sense of where your character is and how the war might play out:

www.morthika.com/map/The-Map-of-Morthika_big.jpg

Thankies. ))

[Harper]

::Harper stood in characteristic silence as the tent around her filled with people bustling with the nervous energy that came with war. At home on the battlefield as she was in the temple of her Goddess, she preferred the latter. Although she was content in her own thoughts until her attention was needed, she remained aware of the conversations around her. It was not so much eavesdropping as it was keeping abreast of the latest news. Her army and her friends would be fighting out there, relying on her to know all there was to know of what they were headed into. She watched with the tiniest hint of a smile as Crowe stomped his frustration out for all to see. She’d never met a man with the self control to hide his impatience and even in the more inappropriate times, it struck her as amusing. Though many of them covered their feelings better, she suspected his sentiment was shared by all within the tent.

She was still watching him when Oona Ondessa, a woman the priestess knew by name and reputation only, swept into the tent following a mild magic-related earth tremble. Harper’s gaze traveled with her to Moridanu’s side. The cold calm that frequented her features chilled further at the mention of the wretched monster that was Elyza, lips curving downward into a deep scowl. The news was indeed grave, however she knew of no weapon nor anything else that could save the dark side in this late hour. Lucien and his filthy wench would fall soon enough.

Harper listened respectfully as Moridanu began the briefing, clasping her hands behind her to give them something to do. As it was just as important to know where backup would be coming from, she carefully noted the position of the others until it was her, her men and the elves up for discussion. She met Moridanu’s eyes directly and offered a reassuring, if grim, smile. In times like these it was a wonder her mouth could still manage the gesture.::

“You will hear that cry again, my friend. Soon and from more than just the elves, I am sure. The strongest of my warriors are gathered and ready. Once I return, I will update Liriope and the elves of this meeting. If I know her at all, she probably can hear everything we’ve said from her place on the field. My men and I appreciate the horses. On your orders we will begin the charge. May Lucien surrender at the mere sound of our marching and spare us all the dirty business of fighting.”

::The map displaying the location of each army was similar to the one she’d drawn back at camp, but Harper studied it carefully as Moridanu drew an H in the circled section. Confident she knew the plan, she fell quiet once more.::