The First Five Begins Here

Stars twinkle in between a few passing clouds and the large moon sitting firmly on the horizon. It was a bit chilly of an evening and the wind was starting to pick up.

The sun was setting, and it was getting dark. The six companions rode into Hillside, not looking like a small town but a military location for a large excursion. Tents all over, guards and people on patrol, torches, camp fires and lots and lots of activity.

Chance finds a makeshift stable, hops off the horse. A lower ranked guard runs to them, “you can’t board your horses here, you will have too…”

The Champion, exhausted, with his crazy red and black helm, demonic armor, glares at the man, eyes beaming, making the guard skitter to a halt, wide eyes, “we will board our horses here, and if you don’t like it, you can talk with the Princess… or I mean Queen Azatina. Tell her Chance was asking, alright?” he says with a growl.

Demi finishes off with a soft smile, showing him the ring and her symbol to smooth things over, “it has been a long couple weeks, it is important that we board here,” she says, and the man nods his head and starts to tie them off.

Looking around at the massive amount of people Chance frowns, then turns to his group, “I have one more favor to ask of all of you…”

Luella smiles, Talia is nodding her head emphatically, Demi is all ears, Sincere is also nodding his head and Inasatra gives him a respectful nod.

This made the quarter elf smile, “first though, thank you for everything. Just… thank you. You were more than I could of ever wanted, ever needed on this kind of journey, and in many ways, I am going to miss you all.”

They all glance at each other, smirking and smiling.

“Inasatra, you are privy to many things Magus Orion, can you head inside and find out who is leading this rabble, get them out here for us?” the Champion says giving her a smile.

Without hesitation, the Eldergleen Elf nods and heads towards the entrance to the town.

“Demi, Sincere I need you to start setting up a perimeter, keep it a good distance away from the roundel, I do not want anyone making their way through, I am unsure what is going to happen,” Chance continues, barking out orders.

Talia’s eyebrow raises, and she says “uhh, short tips? Why are we doing this? What the hell is going to happen to whatever is in that hole?”

Smirking and looking down, “I know I keep saying this, and it is for good reason, I can’t tell you. You will probably see for yourself in an hour or so anyways. Just know it will be taken care of,” Chance finishes off.

Demi and Sincere start to walk away talking about how to set up the “barrier” of sorts so no one gets too close.

The quarter elf looks at Luella and Talia, “I need you to start going through the tents on the far side of the entrance, make sure there is no one in them. I think they are work tents, but I do not want to take a chance. Evacuate them out to where Demi and Sincere are setting things up.”

They nod their head and walk off to the tents far across the towns entrance.

Chance heads for the roundel, by passing a few guards who give him wide eyes seeing his armor and helm. A few go to stop him but they let him pass, not wanting to interact with this… thing.

Walking the perimeter of the roundel, Chance starts to put the red crystals down, trying to keep them evenly apart, 25% of the circle through out. In deep thought, hoping this goes well. But he has some ideas to help, he hopes.

Finishing out he heads to the working tents and starts to look through them. In one he finds what he is looking for, a blanket. He grabs it and tosses it over his shoulder. He nods and smiles to Talia and Luella who are heading back to Demi and Sincere after checking on all the tents.

Chance turns and stops suddenly, hearing a faint familiar, well, voice; “that was (squawk) close. What is going on, Priestess.”

Stopping he turns and sneaks to a tent, and rips open the flaps, grumbling something about the two girls not doing their job. For the first time maybe ever, he sees Velencia jump out of her skin, grabbing for her Kukri’s, “old fucking nutsack!” she yells whipping her head around. Poor Rawek practically shit himself.

“You guys need to evacuate, it is almost time,” the Champion says looking the two over with a satisfied smirk on his face.

Velencia, red faced, “get bent Chump, are you the one with the patrol of nobodies clearing out the place, setting up something across the way?”

Nodding head, “sure am Vel, now get out of here, I am not sure what is going to happen,” the Quarter Elf finishes glancing out the tent seeing if anyone else is around.

“No, no way, I… wait, did you just call me ‘Vel?'” the Priestess says kind of shocked, pissy look on her face, “no, no, you don’t call me Vel.”

A long growing smirk, “OK, VEL, then get going, get the fuck out of here…”

Grunting a bit she is shaking her head, “where too genius, it’s not like we are whipped cream and cherries for the authorities in this land…”

Interrupting, “not my problem, you here, is. Now move it.”

The sparring went on for a few minutes and it stopped abruptly.

“Khamyra is here and I am guessing you do not want her racing over to the roundel. I am going to stand pat, and stop her from doing that. How about that, is that good enough for you?” Velencia finishes with a bit of whip to it, “don’t know why I have to take orders from you…”

Chance stares at her for a moment, eyes beam, stopping her thought process, then nods his head, “fine, fine. Whatever, I am gone for a few weeks and you are still the same cancerous bitch you have always been,” he finishes whipping the flaps shut walking off towards the front lines.

The Champion has arrived to the entire group by the perimeter, now including a somewhat confused and scared lieutenant of sorts of this Magus Orion fighting force.

“I need you to get your men to make sure no one crosses this boundary, it is very important, OK?” the tall, over tired, grumpy Champion barks at the man who is slowly shaking his head. That makes Chance growl a bit, light beams a bit from his eyes.

Inasatra seeing his frustration and patience growing thin, she takes the man and walks with him a bit away. They over hear her say something about the threat has been taken care of, Azatina left Chance in charge and this will only take a few minutes, etc.

Talia is looking up to her best friend and is beaming seeing him taking control, commanding people… albeit a bit grumpy. “That’s my bro,” she thinks to herself.

Behind them, the group hears, “Chance? Is that you… Talia!” a familiar voice and it was of the Retired Knight Plugr.

Talia’s eyes widen, she whips around and races for her Dad, “poppa!” she says as the two embrace.

Chance sighs, “great, yet another person I have to answer to, or talk to or… whatever…” he mumbles.

Demi takes Chance by the arm and walks him a bit away, seeing his anxiety and frustration starting to boil over, “Chance. I don’t know what is going on but I am guessing, this is it. The end of the quest. Once this is over, we can all go home, right?” she says giving him a thoughtful look.

He nods his head and a small smile washes over his face. The Quarter Elf squeezes her shoulder and turns to give Plugr a warriors handshake. Then heads out to the Roundel, but not before reminding everyone, no one goes past the boundary.

Khamyra wakes up hearing commotion in the hallway of the Inn. She gets up, looks out the window and she can see a few guards running down the pathway. With no hesitation she races for her armor and weapons, and quickly gets them on, cursing about how long it is taking.

She runs out of the Inn and the Warlock heads for the entrance. There is 20 guards there, making sure no one passes. Now getting more worried and more curious, she dips into an alleyway, rubs some goop on her wrist – writes a symbol on the goop and says “nividen.” Poof, she disappears.

Quietly, not visible, she makes her way past the guards and along the fenced off area of the town, into the work tent area. Though she is invisible, she comes upon a taller person and a short one and she sighs softly. Velencia, hearing that, turns around and smiles, “brown eyes, I can hear you from a mile away. Care to join the visible? We have to talk.”

Pop! Khamyra is visible with a scowl across her face, “what is going on? Guards are everywhere, what is with the perimeter and…” she starts to rant only to get Velencia waving her down.

“Your hubby is back, and he is…” she starts, but that alerts the Warlock as she starts to move only to get forcefully grabbed by Velencia. Their eyes meet, both turning to slits.

Growling a bit, “get your hands off me Velencia, I want to see my husband,” Khamyra trying to pull away but can’t.

“Believe it or not, I am acting on the Chumps orders to keep you away from him for a short time, until he has to do what he has to do,” she retorts keeping a firm grip.

Finally breaking free the Warlock gives her an odd look, “do what he has to do? What is he doing?”

Velencia scowls a bit, “I don’t know, it’s not like we are one for tea and biscuits, he just said make sure everyone stays away from the Roundel for a while, and that included you.”

Stunned she is looking to the ground, “what the hell is he up to and why does he have this whole place up in arms?” the Warlock mumbles to herself.

“I don’t know, but he seemed pretty serious about the whole thing, Rawek, what do you think?” the Priestess says turning around, looking and looking, “where did he get off to?”

Chance arrives at the Roundal, a low roar behind him from the massive amount of people standing, looking on. A wave of anxiety washes over him, knowing this is it. But in the back of his head it keeps circling, “there is one more thing, but we are not sure how it is going to work yet…”

“Champion,” Rawek says standing by the Quarter Elfs side making him jump, “curious what is going on here.”

With eyes glowing underneath, Chance glances over to the bird and grumbles, “Rawek, I meant everyone stay back, including you…”

He just shakes his head, “the underearth is my domain, I want to be here, I need to be here, to protect you.”

Not wanting to argue, he grabs the last crystal and is looking at it. Throwing it straight in, should start it, Chance thinks to himself, that is what Zannonoz said. I have a sneaking suspicion it is going to be her with this last bit of business, he finishes off the conversation he was having in his head.

“What the hell is he wearing? That is Chance isn’t it?” the Warlock asks the Priestess, “it looks like some heavy armor, and…”

Velencia nods her head glancing back to the Warlock, “yeah, it’s him. Pretty sure that was forged in the under earth, maybe in the fires.”

Khamyra and Velencia set up at the farthest tent looking on, “that little shitbird, why can he be there and not me?” the Warlock growls, not really directed at anyone.

“Oh my god, brown eyes, you are always so wound up, just let him do his thing, then you guys can go back to the inn and fuck like Owlbears in heat,” Velencia finishes with a bit of whip.

The crowd of guards and people have grown to close to 400 if not more. The group keeping people in check, Plugr now pitching in. At the very end of the area, stands the Guardian, with five well equipped war clerics. Not moving a muscle.

Sincere spoke with Naya’il and he let them know Animax told her to stand down, and protect the people of the area. That sent a bit of anxiety through the party wondering why anyone would need protection, but they continued to work the crowd.

“Well?” Rawek says glancing over to Chance, “I am guessing you are throwing that in, and that will let them know exactly where to come up… right?”

Chuckling a bit, “yes, yes. Just not looking forward to seeing anyone of them again,” the Champion finishes off.

The Kenku shaking his head a bit, “why would you be seeing anyone, and who have you seen?”

“Not now,” Chance fires back immediately, and tosses the crystal into the roundel. “Now we wait,” he says, securing the blanket on his shoulder.

Rawek with a chuckle, “are you cold Champion?” he muses looking at the blanket.

Chance taking off his helmet, smirks, “no, but it is a gut feeling…”

Fifteen minutes pass and Khamyra is getting antsy. “What is going on… goddammit, I hate not knowing,” she blurts out and it makes the Priestess sigh loudly.

Like on cue, the ground rumbles once. It was faint but everyone heard it. Then another rumble, it was unmistakable, it was coming from underneath everyone. This time people could feel it.

“Shit, shit,” Chance says looking around, “I hope they don’t miss this goddamn hole, and bust out in the middle of the group back there,” he finishes frustrated.

Laughing a bit, Rawek responds, “No, but its not going to be a smooth ride, they have to make it through the barrier, then through the earth that is there… not to mention whatever the roundel is made of.”

Waiting, the ground rumbles, each time getting louder and more powerful. A deep loud growl echoes out of the Roundel and everyone’s eyes bulge a little, wondering what really is this “lord” that Imyrillion made. A few other odd screeches come from the hole, probably they realize something is coming, and coming for them.

As if some one punched the earth, the ground in the immediate area drops a good foot making everyone stumble, fall or catch themselves. A bright orange light beams out of the hole, and unimaginable sounds scream out. Everyone covers their ears and wince. Chance hears the dinosaur bellow of Gozzilak, a few demon words said that he was sure was the Monarch himself. The ground is moving underneath them. Cracks and holes start to appear all over, but luckily not to big and not to deep.

“What the fuck is going on?” Velencia says half panic, half wildly amused. She instinctively grabs Khamyra who was ready to head out.

Pulling frantically at the Priestess she hisses at her, “let go of me! NOW!”

Velencia grabs both her arms, and stares at the Warlock with such a look it gave the Onyx Elf pause for concern, “for fucks sake, if I can trust that dumb-shit, then you should too, he is your goddamn husband. Trust that he knows what he is doing, this is obviously something that was planned well ahead of time,” she finishes in a loud yell, talking over the noise happening at the hole.

That got Khamyra under control, but her nerves are fried, her anxiety through the roof, eyes well up a bit. But having Velencia next to her helps. She nods her head then proceeds to hug the Priestess, shaking a bit with worry.

The Tattooed woman smirks, and embraces her back, “we are also right here, if anything goes sideways we can get there quickly, have a spell ready to launch, ok?”

With a large smile on her face Khamyra nods her head, backs up, gathers a few things and the both of them look out to the Roundel to see what happens next.

After what seemed forever, the noise dies down, the light still streaming out, a loud hiss very apparent. A whooshing sound is heard and out of the hole pops Zannonoz. Practically floating just outside the hole. She glances to the two standing close and flies over, landing on the edge of the roundel.

She looks to the Champion then to the little bird next to him, “Rawek, did not expect to see you here invoker,” she says playfully.

Rawek, smirks as much as a bird can, “Zannonoz, surprised to see you, it takes a roaring lava pit to keep you warm.”

Nodding her head and chuckling, “aye, it does, its fucking cold out here,” the Demon finishes.

Meanwhile, the crowd is about 200 feet away, if not more, but can still see the Demon, and the interactions going on. Mostly everyone is wide eyes, mouth open.

She glances at Chance, then further out to the huge crowd of people watching, “I am glad I turned off my fear, otherwise this could of got real ugly,” Zannonoz finishes with a playful smile. She waves sarcastically to the crowd, “welcome to the show everyone!”

Chance walks up to the Demon, much to her surprise. A big smile washing over her face, “Champion, reconsidering my offer?” she blurts out with a sly smirk on her face, flicking her nipple.

Shaking his head, he pulls the blanket off his shoulder, and flings it over her head, then wraps her the best he could, trying to cover the titties as well, and then tying it in front. “I knew you would get a little bit chilly, Zannonoz.”

A look washes over the Demons face, one that Chance never thought he would see. If he didn’t know any better, she might of been blushing.

“Thank you my little Champion, that was,” she pauses rubs the fabric and glances back to him, “very thoughtful of you. I mean it smells worse than Gozillak’s backside, but the thought is what counts, right?”

The Quarter Elf nods as he backs up, and gets next to Rawek, “So that concludes our deal then?” he finishes, hoping that there is no, mysterious other part.

Both Velencia’s and Khamyra’s eyes bulge, and say almost the same thing at the same time, “he knows her name?!?”

Talia’s eyes are huge, thinking of her leaving him to these abominations, and that he seems to be dealing with it. “That damn short odius knew, didn’t she… that little shit…” she mumbles shaking her head.

Plugr glances to his daughter, “Odius what?” he says somewhat alerted.

She smiles and chuckles, continues to look on, getting closer to her dad, “oh nothing…”

The breast wielding demon is smiling, “Now now, you know there is that last bit of business we have to discuss,” she muses expanding out her wings for the crowd to see, and they hear oh’s and ah’s in the background.

Rawek gives the Champion a worried look, “Chance?”

“NOT! Your concern shitbird!” Zannonoz says in a loud scolding manner, eyes fire with some flames.

The Kenku growls, grips his staff tighter, making the Demon shutter a little and a look of anger washes over her face, “you dare…” is all she got out.

“It would be most entertaining for you two love birds to keep flirting with each other, foreplay can be so much fun, but can we get on with this?” the Champion says, trying to defuse what could be a devastating confrontation, he takes a long breath and letting out a sigh.

After another long glare at the Invoker, she turns to the Quarter Elf, pulls out a long large sealed test tube from her busting bosom and tossed it to him. “There you go, you have to drink that.”

The Champion catches it, gives it a look and a raised eyebrow.

“Champion, I don’t think…” is all Rawek got out, before Chance cut him off with a bit of anger.

“Rawek, I am allowing you to be here as a courtesy, nothing more. What my dealings lead me to, is my business and mine alone,” he growls, eyes beaming a bit, some veins turn colors.

The Demon’s wings flap and a big smile washes across her face, “I think I might be falling in love with you Champ…”

Another exchange of glances between Velencia and Khamyra, “she is in love with him?” A labored breath, a bite of the lip and the Warlock continues, “what is going on?? What the fuck happened down there?”

Velencia secretly smiles thinking if Chance fucked one of those things, his wanker is probably a smoldering stump right now.

Chance puts the tube in his belt and nods his head, “yes, I will drink it.”

With a playful look, “oh, no hun, you have to drink it right now. Like, right now,” pointing at the tube on his belt.

Wanting to get this over, feeling his memories kicking back in, and anxiety washing all over him, he grabs the tube, rips off the seal and drinks it down.

“Did he just drink something?” Khamyra says, eyes wide, trying to hear what is being said but with the crowd, and other interference’s, she can’t tell.

Velencia nods her head, “sure did, I heard them say something about finishing a deal, not sure…”

Chance throws the tube down on the ground, then scrunches his face, “did I just drink blood? what the hell Zannonoz?!?” He is hacking a bit and gagging.

She lets out an evil laugh that made everyone stop, shut up and look on.

“Sure did, figured you could use a little help with that pesky little fallen goddess,” she purrs floating over to Chance with a few flaps of her wings. He finally looks up to her, almost on top of him. “Just one last thing,” she lands in front, brings her wings around them both for no one else to see.

Khamyra’s face flushing. Seeing his husband wrap a blanket around this… this thing, talk about her being in love with him and now she is wrapping her wings around him after drinking Finster knows what. She instinctively wanted to sling a spell, but Velencia stopped her. “Not now Warlock, she is finishing something up, you could distract her. You could make it much worse than whatever the hell is about to happen!”

Remembering about magic going bad, and not knowing anything about what Demons can do, the Onyx Elf reluctantly put the component back in her pouch.

With an open mouth, Chance can see something glowing, a seed of sorts in the Demon. She grabs a small glowing object from her tongue, holds it in front of Chances mouth, eyebrow raised.

“What now, a glowing piece of your tooth?” the Champion blurts out, squinting, trying to see what she is holding.

“No, I need to activate this, well, gift,” giving him a “come on” look. He slowly opens his mouth. “good good, this should do it,” as she flicks the glowing object in his mouth making him gag and choke a little.

She grabs his head, brings it up to her Demon face, whispers, “zapalita,” then slowly unwraps the wings, and backs up.

Chance is gagging still, grabbing at his throat. His body is starting to get warmer and warmer, a glow starting to emanate from the armor.

Raweks eyes bulge and he waddles as fast as he can away from him, turns, runs his staff across the ground, slams it down, says a word and a semi-transparent barrier appears in front of him.

Khamyra’s eyes bulge, but now used to Velencia’s guidance, she looks to her only seeing her reaching for the Warlocks hand, necklace in the other hand and has a worried look on her face.

The Champion coughs, feeling his insides ripping out it seems. These claws burst from his hands, blood flying, the sound of bones cracking, a wave of flames and heat. Immeasurable pain overwhelming the Quarter elf. His head and face, burst with some blood, some fire and smoke billowing out. He instinctively lifts his head up and produces a sound that made half the people shit themselves. His body throbbing a lava orange, he looks around and once the pain stopped… he felt, amazing, powerful and on fire. It lasted for about 20 seconds and he started to revert back. The claws retracting back, blood pouring out, his face feeling like someone used it as a punching bag. Smoke and steam coming off him, he collapses to his knees breathing heavy.

“Heal yourself my little Champion,” the Demon says smiling and looking on, almost proud, “you have but a few seconds before you pass out and then ultimately bleed out if you don’t…” she finishes looking around to a horrified group of people.

Chance barely had time but heals himself, then it gets blurry, dark and the Champion collapses.

Zannonoz floats, flapping her wings a bit for everyone to see, she puffs out her chest, and her body starts to turn a deeper, more powerful red, light emanating off her and eyes a-glow. Everyone gasps and instinctively backs up. Her fear she produces, that she suppressed is now in full effect. The sound of the crowd grows and panic starts to form.

She looks playfully, and as quickly as her horrific transformation started, it stopped. She turned instantly back to her normal self. Waves her hand a bit to the crowd, in mid air, a few flaps of her wings, utters, “deal done, bye now” and she falls backwards down in to the hole. A loud “thud” is heard and the area grows quiet. The glow slowly starts to fade, the hissing sound is all but gone.

Meanwhile, Rawek quietly walks over, grabs the tube on the ground, and puts it in his pouch, making sure no one else saw him do it. Then feigns his way to Chance looking him over.

Khamyra and Velencia exchange glances and that is all the Warlock had to see. She races for Chance, who was laying on the ground in a smoldering pile.

“Chance!” Talia yells, eyes wide watching him fall over, “I knew something went down in there, dammit Chance, DAMMIT!”

Plugr grabs his kid who was going to go running to him, and he points to someone else sprinting over, “Hun, I think that is Khamyra, not sure who the other two are, lets not get in their way.”

The Witchblade sighs, “great, Rawek and Velencia, just who he wants to see… a shitbird and a slut” she mumbles.

The Knight turns his kid around giving her wide eyes, “you mean the ‘nasty bitch’ that Chance faced off with after the castle quest?” he says with some surprise.

She nods her head, staring out to Chance on the ground.

Demi gets in front of the crowd that is still standing around, some still shaking a bit from the Demon fear, others talking with concerned looks on their faces. “Everyone Everyone! Attention right here, yeah big Black Ward woman, yelling at you, eyes here!”

Demi waves the Lieutenant over and whispers, “this is your gig, I just wanted to get their attention,” she says with a slap on the back.

He nods his head, “I wanted everyone back here a click past cry time tomorrow, your final orders will be given then. Now keep it down, and get some rest!”

Demi and the Lieutenant have an in depth conversation about no more entourage coming and Hillside is safe. Afterwards he invites the woman to an Inn that he is staying for drinks, and she accepts.

After Rawek finishes his concern for Chance he turns, looks over the crowd and finds who he wants. He starts to waddle forward towards the now dispersing crowd. Luella glances over and sees him and figures, he is coming for her.

The two met halfway much to Raweks pleasure, “Luella, it is good to see you. How did the under-earth go?” he says with a bit of eagerness in his voice.

She scoffs a little, “it was something else, roamed the plains, fought creatures, met some secluded elves, and watched Chance go into the Fires of Ardor alone,” the beautiful invoker finishes.

The bird gets a big smile and mutters, “turning into not only the Champion but a hero as well…”

“What was that?” Luella snaps glancing down not hearing everything he said.

The Kenku shakes his head and points his staff to the Roundel, “we just have to walk the perimeter and make sure there are no ‘soft’ spots to the barrier…”

Inasatra walks to her cousin, and they embrace, “good to see you Guardian, you look well,” she says in Elven giving her a once over and a smile.

Speaking back in the same dialect, “I am, but you… seem a little off, eh?” Naya’il says in return giving her a concerned look.

“No, cousin, no, I am good. Very good. A successful quest under my belt, the town is safe and I can get back to my Queen now,” the Eldergleen responds with a slight smirk.

The Guardian still looking on, “I am sorry you had to work with that, thing, but it seems you have made the best of it?”

Nodding her head, looking down, “he really surprised me, and I have a new found respect for him,” Inasatra finishes off to the shock of Naya’il.

Sincere was walking up nodding his head, “yeah, I have to agree with Inasatra, he did us all very well and kept us as safe as we could have been,” finishing off with his crooked smile.

Turn Based Starts Here

DMaster: The smell of fresh flowers wafts into your nose on what seems like a wonderful spring day. A giggle of a baby, one you know well, can be heard. The backyard of your house, the well just a few feet from you; laying on a blanket. Glancing over you see Khamyra with her hand out, sandwich in hand.
KHA: Hungry?
To the left is Novie with the kids, with story time, but it’s a witch book and spells. They are watching her intently, smiling.

Chance: Looking around knowing I can’t possibly be home

DMaster: KHA: Novie, they are going to be five years old and cooking up a cauldron of stink cloud potions, hun
The cute blonde elf giggles, as the Onyx elf shakes her head.

Chance: Shaking my head trying to knock off the cobwebs.
Chan: love, how did I get out here? Last thing I remember was in Magus Orion
Giving her a look

DMaster: She puts the sandwich down and is giving you a look. Then it turns black. You open your eyes. You can hear people far away talking, some walking. A bit of rustling close by.

Chance: Look around as my eyes open, see who or what is around me.

DMaster: You are inside a tent. You can hear faint talking just outside

Chance: Then try to sit up see if I can hear what is being said

DMaster: You recognize the voices as Khamyra, Rawek and Velencia
VEL: How is he doing?
KHA: Hasn’t moved. Seems to be sleeping
RAW: Peacefully?
KHA: Uh, sure, I guess.
RAW: Good.
VEL: That look that Rawek is giving, means you need to explain it better.

Chance: I will stretch a bit and see if I can get up without them hearing me. Try to listen to the conversation

DMaster: RAW: Ahhh, well if he did go in the fires, that is not something that you live through. Him being champion, helped him survive, physically. But I can’t imagine his psyche is going to be…
A pause, silence.
KHA: Be… what?!
RAW: In tact. Though I was floored to see how coherent he was talking with Zannonoz
Khamyra sighs loudly.

Chance: Shaking my head hearing them talk, figuring I have heard enough, I clear my throat.
Chan: perhaps you shouldn’t worry about me as much as you are, or at least know the facts before…

DMaster: Khamyra bolts inside interrupting you.

Chance: A smile goes to my face seeing Khamyra.

DMaster: Her eyes well up and she practically tackles you in the cot.
KHA: My love!

Chance: hug her tight, Touch her lips with my fingers.
Chan: shhh, we need to talk love alone, soon.

DMaster: She nods her head then buries herself into you, shaking a bit.

Chance: Hold her tight, fight back a few tears and stroke her hair

DMaster: Velencia sticks her head in.
VEL: Can we get a move on, you are in my bed and I am tired…
Rawek chirps outside; his disapproval of Velencia.

Chance: Chan: Get bent.
Let my eyes beam a little light.
Chan: and can you let me have a few moments alone with my wife.

DMaster: She scoffs and walks out. After a few minutes of eyes welling and kisses,
KHA: I have a decent room at an Inn, inside the town. If you think you can walk, we can go there

Chance: Chan: Only one way to find out let’s see if I can, I might need you to steady me as we walk.

DMaster: You stand up with ease, you feel really good right now. Albeit exhausted, filthy, a bit smelly but overall you feel good.

Chance: I hold out my hand to Khamyra and give her a small nod.
Chan: let’s go to your room, we have a lot to talk about. Things to discuss without everyone around.

DMaster: She smiles, takes your hand and you two walk out.
RAW: That was quick.
Velencia laughs.
VEL: Yeah, we already kind of knew that.
Khamyra gives her a playful swipe, Rawek chirps.

Chance: Walk a bit a ways, stop. Leave Khamyra there and walk to Velencia.

DMaster: She is starting to walk in the tent and turns to see you, a little off her game still.

Chance: Look right at her.
Chan: Thank you for keeping Khamyra safe.
Nod my head to her.

DMaster: She scowls a bit and scoffs,
VEL: I’d do that everyday all day, whether you say so or not…

Chance: Turn to walk back, and stop. Look over my shoulder.
Chan: and Velencia, I will need a favor of you when you can make it happen.

DMaster: She stops again, raised eyebrow.
VEL: oh really? What now?

Chance: Chan: I am going to need another tattoo done, I don’t need mind readers reading me.

DMaster: She walks to you, pushes the hair aside and looks, her eyes get a bit big.
VEL: It’s… just gone? But now you got these streaks on your face…

Chance: Interrupting.
Chan: I will have Khamyra explain it to you later. I just am a little stressed and I need time with my wife.

DMaster: She nods, looks back to Rawek who is heading into the tent.
VEL: Ride together tomorrow Khamyra?

Chance: Walk then stop, ponder.
Chan: I have to pack up my people to head back, so I am unsure how long that will take, and let’s see how everything goes. Then we can discuss.

DMaster: VEL: I was talking to Khamyra… but whatever.
Velencia rolls her eyes and heads for the tent, with her free hand Khamyra has your helm and she is looking it over.
KHA: I can take care of myself, mister… no need thanking Velencia for that. Interesting, never have seen anything like this helm before.
She looks up to you.

Chance: Sigh loudly,
Chan: I know you too well, it was more; keep you away from the roundel than protection.

DMaster: She scoffs as you head to the town entrance.
KHA: Me? Bah!

Chance: Give her a playful side-wards glance.
Chan: yes… you. We need to talk without ears around, and beside I need to get cleaned up. I can’t even stand the smell of myself right now.

DMaster: You two head to town, a few guards give you a bit of hassle but Khamyra shows the room key and they let you in. Get to an Inn called Stone Brownie Inn and head inside.

Chance: Looking around the Inn as we head inside.

DMaster: The Inn seems to be well taken care of, half stone, half wood. Lanterns all about the outside. The smell of food wafts out as the door opens to go in. An orange glow from candelabra’s and lanterns. The place is packed, people unwinding from the days events. Barmaids zooming around, taking orders, dropping off mugs of beer. A few laughs and a cheer or two from the corner. You make your way through and the pub suddenly becomes dead quiet. Everyone is looking at you, either in amazement or fear.

Chance: sigh, hold my head up and just smile.
Chan: okay, no need to be quiet everyone, go back to what you were doing.

DMaster: The Onyx elf lets go of your hand and scowls at everyone, some purple light from her eyes.
KHA: Shows over! just go, drink your beer or something!
You head to the stairs, up one flight and down the hallway to the room.

Chance: Chan: I should get used to that with the armor I suppose.

DMaster: She glances back at the armor, touches it and raises an eyebrow.
KHA: I can feel, heat coming off it. It is an amazing armor set…
Walking in, 20 x 15, two small windows on the far wall. A bed to the left, dresser and basin to the right, has some old paintings on the wall, windows have drapes, table by the door. Its not great, but its not bad. Khamyra puts your helm down on the table, opens a small hamper, grabs a towel and throws it to you.

Chance: I smile, catch the towel and nod, I begin to take off my new armor.

DMaster: you are naked underneath, bits and pieces of your under clothing is nothing but burnt dust for the most part.

Chance: Chuckle a bit as I am looking down.
Chan: hun, if you don’t want people staring, you might wanna grab me some clothes.

DMaster: She shrugs her shoulders.
KHA: Let me know where your horse is, I’ll grab some.
She then backs up and sighs, walks to you and looks up. Tracing your arm and across your stomach. Pushes some hair away from the side of the face. Starts to rub something that seems to be on your temple. She looks to the other side, rubs it that too.
KHA: Looks like you have some sort of scar from the corner of your eye to your ears.
Then steps back and looks up to you.
KHA: You grew.

Chance: Tilt head back and grumble. Then look down to her, all naked.
Chan: that’s not all that is growing, love
Give her a silly smile, I wrap my arms around her and lift her up till she is squared up with my face. Then put my forehead to hers.
Chan: I missed you, so much.

DMaster: She smiles wide, kisses you. Squirms out of the hug, starts wiping herself down with the debris on you.
KHA: Apparently a Demon is in love with you? Like you were old lovers or something.
She says kind of tongue in cheek, a bit miffed, but knows not to push it right now.

Chance: Start to laugh.
Chan: Oh, no no. She is a character. But I was honestly trying to get out whatever that ending was.
Cough a bit thinking of that.

DMaster: Khamyra is looking at you, half concern, half confusion.

Chance: Chan: Long story… I know I keep saying that but…

DMaster: She turns you, slaps your ass.
KHA: Take a bath you stink stanker.
DM: Chance has grown to 6’4″ is now 200 lbs. He has an added +1 to strength but a -1 to wisdom.

Chance: I will explain to her where the horses are tied off as I go to get cleaned up.

DMaster: She nods and smirks.
KHA: Not sure any of your clothes are going to fit now…
She heads out. You go and take a nice long bath and it feels nice. You are trying to rub off the dark “stains” on your knuckles but it is no use, it seems it is part of you now.

Chance: Enjoy the bath and take my time with it. Will just sit back relax and once I am calmed down a bit, I will make my way back to the room with a towel wrapped around me.

DMaster: Khamyra is in there, she has a pitcher of ale on the table, some plates of steaming spiced tators. She is looking through your bag and backpack.
KHA: When did you get this backpack?
Gives you an odd look, then keeps rummaging.

Chance: Put towel on dresser, look over.
Chan: As I said, I will explain all.

DMaster: She smiles as she pulls out this weird contraption, you have never seen it before. It is a metal object, in the shape of a heart. Each side has an empty glass container within the metal cage of sorts. The bottom of the heart, has what you believe is god-mud. She is staring at it, wide eyes.
KHA: Interesting, this metal, and craftsmanship…

Chance: Looking at it as well.
Chan: ahhhh, yes that is what I was supposed to bring you for that spell you were suppose to cast.

DMaster: She glances up to you.
KHA: Hun, you were supposed to bring some sort of component, not a steel contraption. Plus I didn’t even know I was supposed to do anything until Velencia…
She stops ranting, takes a deep breath, still looking at it.
KHA: This stuff at the bottom, trapped in there, I think is that Tarascree. Hope you brought more, I bet this component will pack a punch.

Chance: Shaking my head trying to figure this out.
Chan: It was a whirlwind Khamyra, there could be bones of Skello himself in there, and I would not know it…
Chuckle a bit.

DMaster: She opens a smaller bag and there is a bunch of the god mud in that burlap bag, then she sniffs.

Chance: Getting annoyed with her going through the pack
Chan : That there is god-mud.
giving her a look

DMaster: KHA: Smells weird but pleasant.
Finally, she puts things to the side and looks at you, hands you your pants and a shirt. DM: Of all things to roll a crit for, its clothes. Todd rolls a 20 and his clothes fit perfect, even better than before. Khamyra turns you around and growls a little.
KHA: Your butt looks amazing in this.

Chance: Still a bit annoyed, we are going to bed, why am I putting on clothes. Best to know now I guess.
Chan: down you little minx there will be time for that later first we eat. I could eat the backside of a goat right now.

DMaster: She scrunches her face.
KHA: Luckily, it is just spice taters.
You exchange giggles. So you start to eat and towards the end you start in on your tale.

Chance: Once done, take her hands in mine first and look in her eyes.
Chan: before I tell the tale I have to say thank you.

DMaster: She is getting the dishes to the dresser, then back to you.
KHA: oh?
She was smiling and now has a little worry wash over her face.

Chance: Chan: thank you for being my strength and believing in me. For marrying me and giving me two beautiful children, and for giving me a place I could call home. (pause) One more thing, in the days to come I am going to need you to be my rock. Somethings we just need to keep locked away which is why I asked Velencia for another tattoo.

DMaster: She sits, nods slowly gripping your hand tighter.

Chance: Chan: which means, I am going to need you by my side in the days to come when dealing with the royals, you might need to be my voice.

DMaster: She is shaking her head, confused, a slight smirk knowing you are scatter brained.
KHA: Chance you are all over the place. Maybe tell me what happened and what is going on first?

Chance: Nod my head I begin to spin the tale. Getting to the point where I am with Inasatra and decide to go down into the fires alone. Looking at her feeling my eyes start to well a bit.

DMaster: She doesn’t look surprised, but looks proud. Shakes her head.
KHA: Oh hun.

Chance: I wipe the tears away and continue with the tale, of everything I dealt with in the fires.

DMaster: As you talk to her about the fires, everything seems to stay in tact; in the brain. You talk about it with a level head, no flashbacks. But her eyes grow and grow and grow. Eventually, her eyes well up, and a few tears fall. Grabbing for hands and giving you looks. Especially during the torture part and some of the hard decisions you had to make.

Chance: I hold her hands as I continue the tale of making the deal. Then making my way to Godhaven and meeting with Ikon, what was said there. Then I pause the tale for a moment and hold her hands a bit tighter.

DMaster: She is hanging on every word.

Chance: I continue the tale to where he snapped his fingers and I ended up in the Dwarven Village and what I experienced there,

DMaster: KHA: Wait, that Ikon said you have important things to discuss, what were they?

Chance: Shrug shoulders,
Chan: I don’t know. Next thing I remember I was in the village.
Continue on the tale, talk about the “lock down” and especially what happened in the pool and how I lost the tattoo.

DMaster: KHA: wait, that Priestess took my form?

Chance: Nod head.
Chan: She did, I am guessing she grabbed onto what I hold most dear.

DMaster: A big smile and she nods her head – though she seemed a bit off put by that.

Chance: Feeling a few tears welling up, still holding her hands I continue with the tale. Then running back to gather the group back together and us making our way back to Hillside. Including the battle with the drakes.

DMaster: She is stunned. You can tell she is bursting with questions, and comments. But gives you a long loving look.
KHA: Well, I do have news of my own. Hopefully good news.
She finishes with a puppy dog look.

Chance: I loosen one hand and give her an eyebrow raise?
Chan: Oh?

DMaster: KHA: Well, Cassie visited us about 2 weeks ago. She said there was a large Manor available a few houses down from the Castle. We talked about it and it made sense; both our work is less than a minute away. Siss could go home every night, and we would be protected inside the city and… and… inside the inner walls. But it was going up for sale later that week and the price would sky rocket then.

Chance: Eyes bulge,
Chan: Oh boy.
Shake my head.
Chan: How much is this going to cost us? What was the deal?

DMaster: She looks down.
KHA: Well. Its a bit complicated?
Shrugging her shoulders.

Chance: Give her a stern look, squeeze her hand.

DMaster: KHA: Well. It was going up for sale for 920 Platinum.

Chance: Chan: Wah wah what?
Eyes bulging.

DMaster: She sighs again.
KHA: We got it for cost, at 780 platinum, or 78,000 gold.

Chance: Numb, staring at her. Take a hard swallow.
Chan: We had that much?

DMaster: She nods,
KHA: For the most part. Maybe not the best time to tell you, we can discuss it later. I mean I am sure we can pack up and move back if you want and then sell it back to Cassie. But I had to make a quick decision, you were gone… plus Cullun really wanted the house, he bought your house for 95 platinum.

Chance: Stare at the wall, stunned.
Chan: He bought the house?

DMaster: She gets up from the table, a bit of worry in her voice.
KHA: Come on, you need rest its been a long day for you.

Chance: Still sit there.
Chan: Tell me this? Do we still have any money left?

DMaster: She looks at you, small frown.
KHA: Of course. We sold a few gems, a trinket or two to help. Cullun gave us a small cut of the business profits.

Chance: Slowly stand up.
Chan: like, how much?

DMaster: With a slight annoyance in her voice and regret, shoulders sag.
KHA: Listen, if you want to move back we can ok? I should of waited to tell you, or maybe just showed you first, but let’s just get some sleep now.

Chance: Nod head giving her a look.
Chan: I am, a bit tired.

DMaster: You two undress, and the exhaustion overwhelms you. Plop into bed and that is all you remember.

---

Wedmak (Wednesday) 7:00 AM

---

DMaster: Waking up to the crier, you remember it is not Grayshale’s man, it is a much nicer one.
Cryer: It’s a cold one, bundle up, the wind will nip your nose
Khamyra is across the room, towel around her trying to comb her hair. The fire is still going in the fireplace pretty good.

Chance: Looking at her with an eyebrow raised and a big smile

DMaster: She glances over.
KHA: You were on fire all night, made me sweat. Was a bit worried, but you were sleeping sound.
She walks over, feels your skin and it is very warm.
KHA: Wonder if that is a side effect of your little transformation?

Chance: Frown, look down.
Chan: I imagine it is. Reminds me of Azatina in a way.
Sigh a bit.

DMaster: Khamyra gives you a look, then thinks, then nods. She is getting dressed.
KHA: We had two knocks on our door already. We have to get down to the town building the lieutenant needs to speak with us. Also, Talia wants to talk too.
She rolls her eyes a bit

Chance: Chan: now now, love, she has been through a lot and we almost lost her for a minute there.
Looking down as that moment comes back into my mind.

DMaster: She snaps her head to you.
KHA: You mean?

Chance: Nod head.
Chan: She told me she died for the briefest of moments.
I go onto explain that very moment and what Talia explained she saw afterwards

DMaster: A bit worried about Plugr, she nods her head.
KHA: You did mention that briefly last night, but so much was being said…

Chance: Chan: that was one of the deciding moments for me. I couldn’t lose anyone I care about, that is why I chose to go into the fires alone
I am saying this as I am getting up, putting on my clothes.

DMaster: She nods as she is finishing dressing.

Chance: Chan: let’s leave the armor here for now, I am getting sick of all the stares.

DMaster: Glancing at the armor, she chuckles.
KHA: Your clothes somehow fit you better, so your all set with that. Meet me downstairs when you are ready.
She walks over, gives you a kiss and heads out the room.

Chance: Chan: I will meet you downstairs.
smile and watch her walk out the door, gather my thoughts before I make my way downstairs

DMaster: gathering your thoughts is like trying to catch marbles in a vat of molasses.

Chance: Hey now! make my way downstairs.

DMaster: It’s somewhat busy. Khamyra waves you over, there is a table of food with Khamyra, Demi, Plugr, Talia and Luella. They all greet you.

Chance: Sigh a bit seeing Plugr, wondering if Talia told him or not. But I make my way over to the table. greet them and sit down looking over the food. Shoveling food in my mouth trying to avoid as much talk about the journey as possible.

DMaster: The group was talking, about a little of everything. Nothing too specific.
LUE: Demi seems to attract the crazies…
Demi’s face flushes but gets a smile.
TAL: The first time I seen her throw an uppercut, ohhh nelly, Dad, it is something to behold.
He gives Demi a quick smile and nod.

Chance: Chan: yeah and it ends in an all out brawl now doesn’t it?
giving Demi a big smirk

DMaster: She giggles
TAL: Both times.
PLUG: Both?!
LUE: If I didn’t know any better Inasatra was all about it, throwing punches with the best of them. She was loving it.
PLUG: Great, bar room brawls?
Gives you a tilted surprised look.

Chance: Smirk and chuckle.
Chan: Aye. It happens when dirtbags grab things you are not supposed to. But then we can talk about you Lue Lue getting hit on in the corner.
chuckling a bit

DMaster: She scrunches her nose.
LUE: I couldn’t tell what was happening between the one guys breath, and the other guys body odor and I think the one guy shit himself.
Talia busts out laughing, as does most of the group. Everyone finishes their food.

Chance: shaking head and look down. Finish my food. Still haven’t really looked in Plugr’s direction as breakfast ends, maybe she didn’t tell him yet.

DMaster: Talia comes over as everyone is standing up ready to go.
TAL: Well short tips, it was quite the adventure wasn’t it?

Chance: Chan: I wish I could have changed a lot about it Talia.
Looking down a bit

DMaster: She shoves you a little.
TAL: Not me. It was something I will never forget and well, I will learn from.
She gives you a fierce hug

Chance: hugging her back just as fierce.
Chan: I love you, Sis.
Not caring who hears right now.

DMaster: She looks up and smiles.
TAL: Love you too.
Plugr was squaring away the tab.

Chance: Taking a deep breath and give her a head pat

DMaster: Khamyra looking on with a big smile. The retired knight walks over.
PLUG: Chance, good to see you, glad you are all home safe.
Says with a big smile.

Chance: smile a bit knowing it could have gone a lot worse.
Chan: I did what needed to be done to make sure we all came home safe.
Guess she didn’t tell him.

DMaster: He pats you on the shoulder and heads out with his daughter.
DEM: The lieutenant should be out in the field, make sure nothing is left hanging I guess.

Chance: Chan: yes, I suppose I better go have a talk with him.
Walk to her, in a quieter tone.
Chan: and Demi thank you again for being all I could ask for as my second in charge.

DMaster: She smiles wide.
DEM: It ain’t over yet, we have to make it home.
She says with a chuckle.
DEM: Let’s just avoid pubs with groping men ok?
You both laugh and head upstairs to your rooms.

Chance: Gathering my gear and get ready to go see the lieutenant.

DMaster: Getting situated, the Onyx Elf looks at you.
KHA: It’s gonna be cold hun, might want to wear your armor.
You glance out the window and open it for a second. 45 degrees, blue skies and a bit windy. She is pulling on one of her armored coats with some fur around the collar. She looks good, professional and she has a aura about her it seems. She is placing pouches in their spot, a dagger in her boot.

Chance: Eyes get big looking at her, smirk.
Chan: I have a funny feeling temperature is not going to be a thing I worry about too much anymore…
I get my armor on minus the helm I will put it on the latch in back. Put silent fate where it goes and put my new dagger close by.

DMaster: She wanted to respond but just gave you an eyebrow raise. You head out, and you see a mass of activity; tents being pulled, tons of guards moving about doing their duties.

Chance: Make my way around looking for the Lieutenant.

DMaster: Demi waves you over, she is next to him.
LIE: Good morning.

Chance: Chan: Good Morning to you as well.

DMaster: LIE: Most of the troops are pulling up and heading back to their province. I am guessing your men are too?
You see some of the guards that came with you waiting by a makeshift horse stalls. A wagon or two is there.

Chance: Chan: we shall be heading home immediately.

DMaster: The Black Ward woman glances over to see not enough activity. Demi is heading over there now
DEM: Hey, come on, let’s get this loaded up… yeah you goofy face, get a move on!

Chance: Shake head.
Chan: I wanted to apologize for all the chaos that happened, but thank you for handling it so well.
I extend my hand.

DMaster: He nods and smiles, then gives you a warriors handshake. Khamyra finally catches up with you, putting on her gloves. He double takes with Khamyra by your side.
LIEUTENANT: Ma’am.
Smiles to her, she nods and smiles.

Chance: Get a big smile on my face.

DMaster: Talia swings over, walking her horse with Plugr.
TAL: OK, see you back home guys. Have fun with all the extra baggage.
She says playfully thumbing in the direction of the wagons.

Chance: Shaking head looking at all the wagons.
Chan: Thanks Tal, thanks a bunch.
Say playful, wink.

DMaster: She winks back and she looks to Khamyra.
TAL: Khamyra, looking good girl…
Your wife eyes bulge a little and blushes. (She went up a level and had a bonus, went up to 20 in Charisma) her hair flowing in the wind, her outfit is almost all black, very professional and she is gorgeous to begin with. With the contrast of mud, dirt, guards and chaos… she looks real good.

Chance: Nod and glance to my wife.
Chan: Yes, she always looks amazing.

DMaster: Acting almost shy.
KHA: Uhhh thank you?
She gives her a hug.

Chance: Chan: I will see you soon, Talia.
walk over to Plugr and give him another warrior handshake as well.

DMaster: Plugr shakes your hand and him and Talia jump on their horses and start to ride out. Looking to the Onyx Elf. She has a very indifferent look on her face.
KHA: Oh brother… I heard about her. This should be interesting hanging with the little twerp.

Chance: Turning to see why she said that

DMaster: Naya’il and Inasatra, as well as an entourage of clerics are walking a bit a ways, they are gearing up to leave as well. You are with Demi now getting your people in the wagons, stuff loaded up

Chance: Barking out orders and make sure everything looks good to head back to Camerondale.

DMaster: You hear someone walking up on you. Turn and there stands Inasatra, arms crossed looking at you, tilts her head.

Chance: Turn to her, scrunch eyebrows

DMaster: You two stare for a moment, Khamyra a bit worried. Then both of you smile big, and exchange a warrior’s hand shake chuckling a bit.

Chance: Chan: I figured I would give you some time with your cousin, as you know me and her don’t quite get along.
smirking a bit.

DMaster: She smiles, then brings up a small rolled paper, a sparrow note.
INA: From the Queen.

Chance: I open it and see what it says.

DMaster: Unrolling and reading:
“Chance, thank you for everything! Hillside is safe. My official coronation is soon, so I expect to see you there, warm regards, Queen Azatina”

Chance: Take a deep breath and grumble a bit, then smile big.

DMaster: Inasatra leans into you.
INA: I have to go, heading back to the capital, but there is one thing I need to tell you.

Chance: Giving her a look.
Chan: oh and what would that be?

DMaster: INA: Keep your cool, will you?
She says with a smile and a wink, turns and heads off.

Chance: Laugh and smile.
Chan: always!

DMaster: Khamyra grabs your arm and snuggles up to you, despite the metal armor.
KHA: I did not expect that. I was told you guys were at each others throats.

Chance: Smirk a bit as she walks away.
Chan: well it’s more we found a mutual respect for each other I would say. She took charge when I needed her to. (pause) I Guess how was it you put it, my fiery babe Azatina, wants me there for her Coronation.
chuckling as I tuck the note into a pouch.

DMaster: A loud sigh erupts from your wife, she turns and heads for her horse, as you do as well. The group is ready and you head out.

Chance: Yelling.
Chan: get them in formation and head out.

DMaster: DM: Condensing. The group heads out and it was an uneventful day to Orc Snout. They stay there, eat, sleep.

---

Thuralay (Thursday) 7:00 AM

---

DMaster: You head back out. Another similar day in weather, mid 40’s puffy clouds and a bit of wind. The group makes it back to Camerondale. It’s about 6PM

Chance: Making sure the entourage gets back to the castle, compound, etc. Everything gets unloaded.

DMaster: Sun is on its way down, dancing in between clouds, wind is still real brisk. When you make it back to the gates, the guards get some Black Ward members, etc, they come out and start taking things in.
KHA: You should check in with BW, then get home. We are the 3rd brownstone past the castle

Chance: look over at her with a look
Chan: uh huh. I will be home, or there, wherever, as soon as I can.

DMaster: She gives you a kiss on the cheek and puts her horse away. You put yours away too and it looks like the wagons and such are being taken care of. You head over to the Black Ward compound show the ring and go in. It is now heading to 7:00 PM and it’s still pretty busy. Cybil looks like she is packing up, Bastian there yapping away, she seems to be nodding to him to just shut up in some playful way.

Chance: Seeing Bastian yapping away I let out a big laugh

DMaster: He glances over and big smile washes across his face
BAS: Chance, welcome back!
Cybil smiles and waves. Then raises an eyebrow.
CYB: Welcome back… uhhh nice armor?
Bastian is staring at your armor, drooling a little on himself.

Chance: wave at Cybil and smile.
Chan: thank you for the welcome back, and yes. It is pretty nice armor.

DMaster: BAS: Cap and Valentine already went home. I guess ungear and head home, see you tomorrow morning?

Chance: Chan: well, I would say ungear but this goes home with me
poking at the armor
Chan: I will see you in the morning

DMaster: He smiles and gives you another hand shake.

Chance: Give him a big handshake and make my way out of the ward, head towards home

DMaster: You make it through the inner gates, walk by the castle count three doors down you see a pretty massive place. Two story Manor. Looks to be the second or third largest on the street.

Chance: eyes get big seeing the house

DMaster: There is a 3 foot stone fence with ornate rod iron that goes up 3 feet from that; encasing the building. A large double iron gate. A well maintained pathway leading up, Two poled lanterns on either side halfway down the path. There is also what looked to be nice flower beds in the front, but mid to late fall it is all but dead. You get to the end of the pathway, go up a few steps to a “porch” and to the ornate double doors that have two little peep windows.

Chance: Quietly opening the door

DMaster: It opens into a large entrance way that is roughly 40 x 40. Dual staircases, on each side of the room that is leading to the 2nd floor. A balcony of sorts sits straight ahead, 20ft high that has a railing. Marble and exquisite stone walls and floors, a big fluffy rug in the middle. A few lanterns, a painting or two, two tapestries with Finster’s symbol on it.

Chance: closing the door behind me, I am taking all this in.

DMaster: straight ahead you can tell is the kitchen, to the right it looks to be the living room and to the left is three doors on a wall.

Chance: Listen to see if I can hear any talking going on

DMaster: Then it hits you, to the right in the living room you hear a giggle and some little one yapping away

Chance: A big smile goes to my face

DMaster: You also hear another familiar voice,
NOV: Daddy will be home soon lil warrior

Chance: Walk to the other side, take off my armor, lean it against the wall. Then head to the Living Room , walking more with purpose than ever

DMaster: You stop at the entryway and see crayon, holding on to a coffee table standing, swinging his other arm around. Krusty is sitting in a comfy chair with a few blocks in her hands. Novie on her knees watching the two. Its a 20 x 40 room, completely carpeted, gorgeous furniture, decorations, bay windows.

Chance: Feeling a few tears run down my face seeing the kiddos

DMaster: Novie glances behind her and she jumps up. With wide eyes and a big smile she runs, slams into you with a huge hug.

Chance: Laugh a little, smile, hug back.
Chan: easy, Novie I am home, finally.

DMaster: NOV: I missed you so much M’Lord (pause) err, Chance

Chance: Chan: Missed you too.
Hugging her and smiling

DMaster: She turns and walks you over to Crayon, he looks up
CRAY: Da-da?

Chance: Stare at him for a moment, standing on his own. Trying not to get emotional. I bend down and hold my arms out to him

DMaster: Novies face lights up and smiles hearing him call you that. He takes a few steps and falls into your arms

Chance: Bring him up hug him, tight, not THAT tight, but give him snuggles.
Chan: yes its Da-da my little warrior

DMaster: Novie turns and heads out of the room to give you some time alone with your kiddos

Chance: touch his little face and smile, put him back standing by the coffee table. Walk over to Krishana

DMaster: She looks up, gives you an inquisitive look, and that makes you giggle.

Chance: Take her and give her a big hug too.

DMaster: She seems a bit taken back by you, but something must of triggered and she smiles and even lets out a giggle.

Chance: Walk to Crayon and pick him up too. Hug them both. I find a spot to sit and hold them a while longer before putting each of them on my knees, just smiling as they giggle and yap away

DMaster: They are giggling and yapping away. Khamyra is leaning on the entryway frame, tears falling with the biggest smile on her face.
KHA: Da-da is home…
A soft loving smile washes over her face.

Chance: Chan: well don’t just stand there, come here my love and join us.
smiling real big at her, feeling a few tears well up as well

DMaster: she walks over gets on her knees next to you and you all hug for a bit. Afterwards you play, but they are getting a bit cranky.
Sis comes in, welcomes you back, takes the kids and heads to their room on the 2nd floor. It is a click past sunken sun (8:00 PM).

Chance: Watch them leave the room. Remembering why I am doing what I am doing. To keep the world safe, and to keep them safe as well.
Chan: this place is amazing, to think I would ever be living in something like this…
Looking over at Khamyra
Chan: okay, so you want to show me around?

DMaster: She nods her head, takes your hand
KHA: This is the Living room, a lot of the furniture was already here.
You follow. She walks out, This is the entryway.
KHA: Waiting on a table I ordered to come in for the middle here.
Pointed at the rug in the middle of the room. She walks you under the dual staircase into the Kitchen. The entire wall is glass minus a few spots for cupboards, your long table in the middle, shelving and cabinets. It has a huge fireplace / stove. She walks to the left and through a door. You keep following hand in hand.
KHA: Here is the first bathroom

Chance: Chan: Just how many do we have?
giving her a look
Chan: to think someone who was a cabana boy at one time would be living here

DMaster: She chuckles
KHA: Three, we have three bathrooms.
Then to the door you say to the left when you came in. Its a 15 x 20 room, lined with shelving, a table and such
KHA: This is our study, or my office
she sighs seeing the paperwork on the table

Chance: Chan: well tonight love, forget the paperwork this is about us
I wrap my arms around her from behind

DMaster: She smiles, welcomes it. Takes your hand and leads you up the stairs. There is landing, with a railing, a nice small table with fresh flowers on it. Four doors
KHA: Far door is Novie… she has a boyfriend now by the way. Second door is for guests. Third door is for our babies. And the last door is our room, the Master suite.
You go to it, walk in and it is 25 feet wide, 50 feet long and completely rugged, your bed on the far wall, huge double glass doors, leading out to a porch, a roaring fireplace, dressers, paintings, you see your armor leaning against the wall; Novie must of grabbed it for you

Chance: Chan: so much has changed since I was gone, for such a short time
feeling the emotions hitting me

DMaster: She shrugs her shoulders
KHA: Hun, you were gone almost 3 weeks. That’s not really a short time…
Another sigh she glances out the back, to the door that leads out to a balcony.
KHA: I know, I had 2 maybe 3 days to decide, it was going up for public sale and it would of went for a lot more. Cassie helped set it up, and it makes sense, much safer, its 1 minute for me to work, you too. Sis it’s a 5 minute walk to the Vines

Chance: Nod head.
Chan: not just this, I meant our lives in general. I can now understand how Plugr feels about Talia
feeling a few tears coming on

DMaster: She gives you a look, walks to you

Chance: Chan: before becoming a father I wouldn’t have understood it, but now I do and will do everything in my power to protect Krishana and Cralen

DMaster: She nods and buries herself into you
KHA: So glad you are home

Chance: Hugging her back
Chan: you know the one thought that got me through what I went through, was you three

DMaster: KHA: Yeah? Maybe this too?
she says slowly taking off your shirt

Chance: lift her up and carry her to the bed, a smile washes over my face and like when we first met I turn to champion form

DMaster: you two are getting a little frisky, she takes your hand. Then looks at it intently. Your knuckles have a permanent burn marks on them. You two embrace and make love. Rocking the poor bed all over and fall fast asleep in each others arms

---

Freya (Friday) 7:00 AM

---

DMaster: You wake up, somewhat rested. Khamyra is on the edge of the bed on the other side, leans up hearing the babies.
CRY: 7 AM! Time to wakey wakey, Might see a few drops of rain, but at least it’s a bit warmer on this Freya!
KHA: I do miss our old Crier, he was a peach.

Chance: Chan: well for once I don’t. I suppose I should get dressed not sure what this day is gonna bring
wrapping my arms around Khamyra tighter

DMaster: KHA: Siss gets here usually between 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM so once in a while we have to go get stinky and smelly on our own.
She chuckles and snuggles in.

Chance: Chan: I am sure its gonna be a day dealing with the ward and probably the royals.

DMaster: She nods and is touching your skin.
KHA: You are radiating heat… (pauses) I have a shit-ton to catch up on, So I’ll be at upper college most of the day.

Chance: Chan: and here I was going to just say we could skip all that and stay in bed.
Stop and think
Chan: Upper college?

DMaster: KHA: Ahhh a day of love making and snoozing.
She smiles, then she is thinking…
KHA: Upper college is in the tower that goes from the ground outside Camerondale all the way up to the walls of Camerondale. It is were most of the teachers, professors, etc are. We can get there real easy its at the inter-change of the inner wall to the… well outer place, or thingy (giggles)
She them wraps her arms around you, face to face.
KHA: What you told me about the fires it was horrific, I was thinking; I couldn’t imagine anyone reading you and not wanting to toss their lunch, and get upset or worse. Maybe make a quick jaunt to Velencia’s?
Pointing at your neck.
KHA: She is at the same place as before, she closed up the temple for good, at least in that area, but it is now an elaborate entrance for her. Behave!

Chance: Sigh and grumble a bit how she is still a bitch
Chan: well, let’s hope the Ward and dealing with certain mind readers don’t mind me being a tad bit late.

DMaster: She smiles shrugs her shoulders
KHA: I was also thinking, how you can’t recall the fires without hurting yourself, I will write up some notes, a few copies for people to look at.

Chance: Chan: I think that would be for the best, thank you.

DMaster: KHA: I’ll do it at work today.
She hops out of bed and starts to rummage through her dresser

Chance: Looking at her butt as she is rummaging through the dresser
Chan: has anyone ever told you that you have an amazing ass
giggle a little, as I sit up in the bed and stretch

DMaster: She starts to wiggle it around
KHA: Maybe…
She giggles and heads to the other side, opens a door to a bathroom. You can hear the kids, Sis must have them and she is heading down the stairs.

Chance: I will make my way to a dresser, find some clothes for me to wear. Make my way to the bathroom as well.

DMaster: Khamyra is on her way out, fully dressed
KHA: See you tonight, hun
Gives you a kiss on the cheek and off she goes.

Chance: Chan: see you tonight love.
Touch my cheek and smile

DMaster: You clean up and get dressed. Its a bit tight but you fit.

Chance: Thinking new clothes are in order now, grab my gear before heading downstairs. Maybe deal with the Ward first before making a jaunt to see Velencia, because thinking the King will want a report as soon as possible.

DMaster: ok, it’s only like 1 minute from your front door so yeah

Chance: Head into the compound and look around as I walk in

DMaster: It’s mad busy. A large man glances over.
KIL: There he is, back from his vacation. Did you get a sunburn?
He walks over to you, smirk on his face.

Chance: shaking my head a bit and smile. Giving him a warrior’s handshake.
Chan: Killian, good to see you, ya smelly oaf
Smirking

DMaster: KIL: Sure Cap will want to see you straight away, she’s in her office
He slaps you on the back, then pulls you back by the shoulder
KIL: Did you get taller?

Chance: Nod my head

DMaster: His eyes get big
KIL: Oh boy, what did you do this time?
Big smile on his face

Chance: Shake head.
Chan: The usual.

DMaster: He seems curious, but nods and moves on.

Chance: Make my way towards the captain’s office

DMaster: a few people nod, a handshake or two. Door is open, and the Captain is in there with Valentine.

Chance: Chan: Captain, I hope this isn’t a bad time

DMaster: Eyes wide open looking
CAP: Come on… in Chance.
Both looking at you.

Chance: Walk in.

DMaster: VAL: Interesting armor, Chance
Captain gets up
CAP: Welcome back… uhhh
She is looking it over. Even Valentine comes over to have a look, touching it, rapping it a few times
VAL: Never seen metal like this before. It has almost a glow and the helm…

Chance: Nod
Chan: I will explain this armor in good time Captain. I figured I better report in

DMaster: Her eyes real big seeing the helm latched on your backside. They both stand side by side, staring at you

Chance: Giving them a look
Chan: It’s still me, just a few changes hoping that haven’t noticed. I have grown as well. I have Khamyra working on something for me so I will get my report to you as soon as possible

DMaster: CAP: Alright, I figured you can work on it, the King said he wanted to see you straight away

Chance: Chan: I will make it to him as soon as possible. Do you also want a performance evaluation on Demi as well Captain?

DMaster: She nods still looking you over

Chance: Chan: I will see to it that it gets wrote up soon

DMaster: CAP: Yes. Wait, where is your BW armor?

Chance: Chan: As I said it’s a long complicated story. Once Khamyra is done with what she will be doing for me it will be explained

DMaster: VAL: Why is Khamyra even involved?
Captain glances over then back to you

Chance: look down taking a deep breath, getting annoyed

DMaster: CAP: OK, I expect the report by the end of day today. Get with the King as soon as you can… and well, if you need new armor get with the smithy

Chance: Chan: as you say, Captain

DMaster: Valentine rolls her eyes and walks over to the other side of the desk

Chance: Chan: oh and Captain, thank you for sending Demi with me

DMaster: She glances over her shoulder,
CAP: You should thank Killian, he suggested it

Chance: Smirking.
Chan: I will have to thank the big lug. The reports and everything else gets done before the end of the day, Captain

DMaster: She nods her head as she sits back down
CAP: Dismissed

Chance: nod my head and make my way back out, hunt down Killian real quick

DMaster: He is at Cybil’s desk.
CYB: It ain’t going to go any faster with you staring at me
KIL: I am just eyeing up your lunch there, what you got?
CYB: KILLIAN!!

Chance: shaking my head
Chan: Captain says I should be thanking you Killian, for suggesting Demi

DMaster: He glances over
KIL: Aye, a no nonsense hard nosed agent. You didn’t need any games on your first lead. Why, she did good huh? It didn’t seem like it at your departure.

Chance: Chan: Aye, but we quickly connected. She did more than good, she was instrumental to the task, minus a few bar fights, but I digress, any time you want her to come with me I welcome it

DMaster: He is smiling looking just past you
KILL: You don’t say.

Chance: Turn my head around and look back

DMaster: It’s Demi, arms folded, smirk on her face
DEMI: Minus a few bar fights, huh?
You two warrior handshake

Chance: Warrior handshake and chuckle
Chan: well yes, minus a few bar fights. I couldn’t have asked for a better second in command then you.

DMaster: She smiles and nods, blushing a little. You two chat for a minute then you head out.

Chance: Head to Velencia, going to see the cancerous bitch. Go to the stable and get Toby and head to Velencia’s

DMaster: You ride, its cloudy a bit warmer. You get to the entrance and its way different. A 12 foot wall with a large double door. Two small guard houses on either side. Big braziers, a pathway leading to the doors, small horse stable, troth and hay bails.

Chance: I will dismount off my horse as I get close, put the horse in the stable.

DMaster: A guard comes out, wide eyes seeing you
GUA: Not sure who you are, but, yeah… keep moving. She doesn’t have anyone invited today.

Chance: Let a little light come out of my eyes, growl.
Chan: THAT. Is my invitation. Got it?

DMaster: He backs up wide eyes. A head pops out of the other guard house that you recognize.
HAM: Hey asshat! That is the Champion!
Walks out of the hidey hole.
HAM: Good to see you!
He is pointing at the guard
HAM: Yeah, might not want to piss him off. The only person on Legon that can take out our Priestess. Imagine what he can do to you.

Chance: Give him a look, smirk.
Chan: good to see you as well

DMaster: HAM: Come on in.

Chance: Chan: Hamza, is Velencia available? I need both your talents today

DMaster: He is walking to the gates that are opening.
HAM: Oh? Yeah her and Rawek got back in yesterday afternoon. They been in the war room all night, maybe even the morning. Something is going down I think, you should talk with her

Chance: Sigh, keep walking.
Chan: well let’s go make her day just a little more awful shall we?

DMaster: Going through the gates, they close, he laughs at your comment. Its beautiful, grass, trees, almost lost their leaves, bushes and such, a path leading to the doors to Velencia and then one to a large complex, (what we would call an apartment complex)

Chance: Chan: must say I am impressed with this
Wave my hand around to the area now all set up nicely.
Chan: but you might want to tell some of them who I am

DMaster: HAM: Naw, the look on their face when you get all bent out of shape, it’s priceless

Chance: Chan: you mean them shitting themselves is priceless?
smirking even more

DMaster: HAM: Aye!
Nodding his head you guys go in a now well lit, and decorated hallway. Takes about 5 minutes to walk and you get into her compound area. Hamza walks, knocks on the door

Chance: taking this all in as we walk along

DMaster: Muffled VEL: Wat?!?
HAM: Uhhh, got a guest my Priestess.
VEL: Unless its that guy with the 10 inch dick, tell them to politely go fuck themselves
then you hear a Squawk. Hamza laughs
HAM: Not sure how big his dick is, Priestess, don’t want to know, but you will want to see him
VEL: Fuck, its gotta be chump. Come in.

Chance: Give Hamza a look
Chan: It is 10 inches, but anyways… I don’t know how you deal with her
shaking head, open the door and go in.

DMaster: She is leaning back in her chair, looking exhausted rubbing her temples. Rawek is in his little weird chair, looking through a book
RAW: Champion
He nods
VEL: What do you want? Oh yeah, the tattoo

Chance: nod my head at Rawek

DMaster: VEL: Hamza, can you jam it on his neck for me?
Hamza walking in seeing the place a bit of a wreck, four other people in here, heavy in research, he nods his head going to look for the pick.

Chance: Chan: I don’t even want to know what’s going on here
looking around

DMaster: Velencia gets up quickly, in a aggressive way.
VEL: You. That is what is going on in here, YOU!
Rawek chirps and squawks at her. Waving his hand / wing at her.
RAW: Velencia!

Chance: My eyes instantly turn to beams

DMaster: She walks over to a cupboard grabs the ink and places it down on the table, grabs a parchment, waves her hand, the bottle glows and then she slides it over to Hamza. The Tempest grabs it.

Chance: Chan: well, I am sorry to have caused so much problem for you. I am doing this for your benefit as well as mine, so with all due respect. Get bent.

DMaster: Her eyes flash and she laughs at your statement. Hamza is twirling the pick and points to the same seat as before. He is chuckling at your usual banter. She heads back over and is drinking bean water, looking through a book.

Chance: Calm myself down and sit in the seat

DMaster: Rawek has an eye on you all the while he is reading a book. Eventually Velencia makes her way over and is looking your armor over
VEL: This metal, ever seen anything like it Hamza?
HAM: nope, it gives off a little heat too, and so are you Champ. What gives?

Chance: Chan: don’t wanna talk about it, can we please finish this up

DMaster: Hamza and Velencia exchange glances and she walks to Rawek and they are talking in quiet tones. Hamza finishes up
HAM: There, all done. Not bad,
Velencia walks over and puts some salve on it

Chance: Chan: I would say thank you, but I am sure you could care less
looking at Velencia

DMaster: Squinting
VEL: You are in a particular foul mood today.
She shrugs her shoulders, walks to the corner with some staves there. Grabs one and walks to you. Raweks eyes light up, waves his hands around.
RAW: Priestess!
VEL: What? we can find out as quick as Chump here lasts in bed. I am done researching, haven’t slept in a day and I am tired.
Hamza standing back lets out a chuckle, eyes wider watching. She is handing you the staff. Everyone in the room stops and looks on, wide eyes in anticipation.

Chance: Scowl.
Chan: Fine, if this gets me out of here quicker…
taking the staff in my hands

DMaster: Symbols start to glow and pulsate
RAW: Chirp, Fuck, Chirp
VEL: Well my feathered friend, you were right and so was Finster.

Chance: Eyes widen, shaking head trying to see the symbols.

DMaster: She grabs the staff and walks it back over to the corner, shaking her head all the while

Chance: Giving both her and Rawek a look
Chan: no, I don’t even want to know right now, I got too much to deal with.

DMaster: RAW: Champion. You should know
He holds up the vial that you drank from
VEL: How many times do I have to talk to you about consequences. You never learn.
Rawek gives her a disheartening look.
VEL: But, yeah, you should know. I haven’t got a wink of sleep because someone else already knows
She says pointing up giving you wild eyes.

Chance: Chan: you know I did what I needed to

DMaster: Shaking her head, disgust on her face.
VEL: Sure you did.

Chance: keeping myself focused
Chan: you know I can’t talk with anyone but Khamyra about what happened to me or things could get a little sketchy

DMaster: Rawek jumps down, grabs the staff and walks over. Velencia is looking at you weird about the not talking comment.
RAW: I took the vial and I have been testing the contents of it. It is blood, it is demon blood, and I think it might be Godzillaks, possibly a few others too, not sure
He chirps. Velencia stands there staring at you, folded arms

Chance: shaking my head and look at them both

DMaster: He has a drop of the blood left, it goes on the staff you held and it glows a little and fades. Then he hands you the staff again.

Chance: Chan: I did what needed to be done, to keep everyone safe

DMaster: VEL: You keep saying that like it means anything. Who are you trying to convince? Yourself?
Rawek gives her a swat much to her displeasure.

Chance: shaking a bit as I grab the staff

DMaster: VEL: I don’t care if you saved an orphanage on fire you twit, you…
RAW: Stop!
The staff glows, pretty bright
RAW: Champion…
He looks up to you, shoulder sags
RAW: It appears, you also drank the blood of Atticus…