RP:Death of a Rogue

Part of the Rynvale Darkest Night Arc

Summary: As the final bells toll to declare the appointed hour, the lycan captain Leoxander arrives in Kelay along with a host of the residents of the lands, to hear the parasite's decree. A challenge to fight is issued and met, which results in the death of the rogue. RIP

Characters: Leoxander, Tiphareth, Vuryal and well, the world.

Location: Kelay

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Outside Kelay Tavern

Nemisis sighs as he stares at Ixiel some more, releasing another puff of smoke. it was showtime. The two hours are up. Exactly what was to happen? Either way he was prepared for the worst should it come down to it. Lately things never seemed to go the way he needed it.

The giant clocktower in Hollow chimes three bells...

Derry stood openly in the area, so far the coast was clear for the young vampire, though, not enough would recognize him amongst this crowd that gathered.

Athyaron said to Yasmine, "When this is done...remind me to blow up that damned clock..."

Ixiel : Wraithen eyes of deep grey, lifeless orbs within the shadows of black, bounce from patron to patron. The wraith moves nary a muscle, instead remaining freakishly still as he awaits his creator.

Nemisis finally averted his gaze from the wraith as more people started to gather. He was silent as he watched. Hands in his pockets with no facial expression. A stone figure.

Leoxander stepped into the scene. Black dressed, well armed, and flocked by a pack full of MFers (or wolves and such) ready to rumble.

Vuryal appears in a cloud accompanied by lightning and thunder.

Leoxander said to Vuryal, "Bout damn time..."

Yasmine moves beside the wolves she has come to know and is ready, her magic blazing in her blood and her blades at the ready.

Vuryal appears through a veil of blackened mist, the fog corrupting the entire area even more so than the starless sky above. He appears upon the gallows, in front of his creation, amber stone staff gripped tightly by fiendish digits as the glowering crimson gaze washes itself out amongst the crowd.

Athyaron 's crossbow was already in hand, with a fire enchanted bolt notched. And if that wasn't enough, elementally enchanted swords rested upon either hip of his heavily armored body. He was truly, ready for anything that was to come.

Kirien followed Leo as always, a shadow at his side. Blind amber gaze was half-veiled behind a visor of thin onyx as the vampire scrutinised the area, searching, feeling. The tension in the air was growing ever stronger, crackling, almost tangible. He scrunched his nose up a bit in response.

Nemisis said, "And so it begins...."

Muraski leaned against the side of the tavern and watched, eyes intrested in the events about to unfold.

Kirien's focus snapped to Vuryal.

Derry watched as Vuryal's tell-tale signs of appearance made themselves present. Taking a knee, the pyromancer bowed himself to the Time lord, a single mutter of ," M'lord." Escaping his lips.

Kumorohyou makes his way to the crowd, the shaman clad in a strange, exoskeleton-like armor that fits his form near-perfectly. Turquoise eyes glow behind a translucent visor that covers his entire head, leaving his black hair flowing in the breeze. His eyes move to Vuryal, the panther thinking to himself with a bit of sadness, ~Hourglass, you truly are broken...~ upon seeing the Time Lord's Spirit and form.

Vuryal stamps his staff down in front of the gallows, an amethyst glow appearing and encapsulating the makeshift buliding. Though both the wraith and fiend are visible, they appear slightly distorted, as if time seems to be slightly shifted between themselves and the gathered crowd...

Ranok || Massive thudding can be heard on the streets of Kelay as some*thing* approaches. Or rather, multiple things. Two metal monstrosities stalk the streets, the rhythmic pounding of heavy footstep from them both. Those would be what Ranok called the Doorknockers. Each one was in the rough image of a man, only crudely so. It lacked a head, and the body was larger then a man's would be in terms of proportion. Each arm terminated not in a five fingered hand, but a three fingered fist of sorts. Two thick digits, and one large 'thumb'. Similar to the hand, the foot wasn't like a humanoid's, but a chicken footed affair. Three prongs in the front, and one in the back to stabilize. The legs were slightly shorter then they'd be on a human, as well, bringing the thing's center of gravity down lower to prevent tipping. Another measure to prevent tipping was two swing out stabilizers attached to the back of the legs. If the thing was pushed over, they would swing out and catch it, allowing it to regain its upright footing much easier. The body of the things had a cavity large enough to stick a man into, and indeed, that was what would be done. Holes led into the limbs of the things, providing the means of control. A mixture between physical motion and magical guidance, if the symbols purpose would be guessed at. Each compartment had an armored closing with a viewport out. Along with rearview mirrors, an after touch after the inability to turn ones head without turning the whole body was noted. Of the two, the smaller one was much cruder looking, covered in leather instead of proper armor. The larger one was much better made, and more polished. If a guess was to be made, the smaller version was the prototype or the first one made, and the second was the improved version. That presumption would also be the correct one. Sockets on the shoulders, hips, and the back of each Doorknocker had glowings stones socketed at certain points as the source of their power, though they were covered at the moment. Each limb was individually powered, but didn't have to be. In the event that one stone was drained or damaged, the others would supply theirs at a greater expenditure. The stone on the back was the overall backup, to provide emergency power. Once each stone was fitted, armored coverings were slide over them, an obvious protection measure and a covering of an overly visible 'hit here' weak spot. The smaller Doorknocker had the word 'Johnny' covering it, the name it was dubbed with. The larger was nicknamed 'Bypass', an allusion to its purpose. Each was armed with both the massive size of itself, fists, and an enormous sword that was more heavy then sharp. They would slide out when the pilot of the thing gave the command to do so. On the other arm, a stripped down ballista would rest, along with a quiver of bolts, if such a name could be given to the three foot long rods of deadly intent could be called that, on the hip of each. 'Johnny' had a normal type ballista, one that had to be cranked, or pulled between firings, but 'Bypass' had the more advanced version, allowing for a faster crank by virtue of a simple lever and spring clip. When standing, the smaller Doorknocker would be at 9 feet tall and change, and would reveal the elerium strapped to it. The larger was 12 feet tall, and had the same.

Nemisis eyes snapped towards Kirien as he walked into view. Inside his head Intelligence said, "Just what we were afraid of..." Honor says simply, "Well...we were prepared for it...." On the outside the demi turned his attention back to the timelord, the chaotic aura about his body beginning to show.

Mahri, on dragon back, with a wing consisting of no less than six dragons, ice wyverns, gryphon's and their riders appear from the east. Satoshi's own Dansur was there with his rider and both looked eager for their first taste of battle. They all did. It hadn't taken long to get ready and Mahri had briefed every rider and their mounts on what was happening and just why Satoshi had sent them, if they didn't already know. A few stared at the woman with a grim set to their faces. Untried but trained, the wing would do as told and cover the sky above the battle ground. They'd even cover those fighting below if they could. Nameless kept close to Sora as possible. Over Kelay Way, their moon-struck shadows pass with soundless ease. So far. They'll circle for now, with the beta's keen sight scanning below.

Leoxander appears... well, through nothing, really. The rogue was fairly damned obvious, with his approach. "This ends now, Chronomancer." He'd announce, as he moved through the crowds with his pack of defense. Inept, perhaps, to some, but the alpha would not do this without his family. The pirate would be approaching those said gallows, fearlessly.

Vuryal flows his sight towards the lycan alpha. "Ah, Leoxander. How thoughtful of you to come. Do be so kind and not interrupt the festivities. It would be most... unwise."

Tysinni falls along in back of the crowd, tensing as Vuryal appears, flooding the area with his evil presence. Her grip tightens around a dagger at her belt and she waits, cautious and ready for something to happen.

Mahri :: Sora would eye that chicken and ask her rider, ~Can I eat it?~ That brought a grin to the wolf's lips.

Derry said to Vuryal, "I trust you got my letter..."

Nemisis said to Kirien, "We knew you would be somehow tied in this....We guess Nameless is down for the fight too huh...?"

Leoxander continued to approach Vuryal. "You know damn well I'm not kind, parasite." He'd leap right onto those gallows again, as though they were his stage. "Let's go."

Ranok || Both monstrosities halt with the rest of the crowd. Whirring and clicking could be heard as limbs moved and adjusted. No comment is offered from either. They could have been golems, for all anyone knew. Unless a glimpse through the viewport was caught of their human pilots, that was. Then a vile hissing as the sword blade attached to each of the things arms hisses out and snicks into place with the finality of a great many things.

Leoxander eyed Derry, from the corner of his vision.

Kirien was not the useless thing he might've been last Nemisis saw the fox, and that much would be clear. Hands flexed at his side and long fingers curled some; and he might briefly have canted his head in the demi's direction and grinned before he was following the Alpha, keeping close.

Kumorohyou holds a strange object in his hand, a crystal of pale turquoise that is shaped in the form of a Porro prism. The shaman's features also seem to blur, the air around him feeling as though it were thickening and vibrating. One of the many voices going through his Mind speaks, ~Time distortion detected...syncing...~ Even if the Shaman would not engage directly with the Time Lord, he would at least be able to keep up.

Kirien said to Nemisis, "Aha. Long time no see." A finger jabbed skywards. "He's up there somewhere."

Derry shot a grin towards Leoxander, he knew not this Lycan, but at this point Derry didn't really care.

Athyaron eyed both Time Lord and Derry with a fierce intensity, his thirst for battle apparent in his eyes. However, he would remain close to Yasmine, as he had agreed to fight alongside her, but he had a promise to keep as well. One he wasn't going to break to Nalani..

Vuryal phases a time-shifting bomb into view, right in front of Leo to see. "You see, I half expected you to do something brash, pirate. Do you see this device? It is a rather cruel contraption. It has the ability to simply 'erase' an entire area from history. I have planted one of these within a city of my choosing. Perhaps it is Rynvale. Or Vailkrin. Or Cenril. Or even right here. Back down, or we shall be finding out." At this the fiend grins, maliciously and with a mocking flair as if he wants Leo to stay.

Mahri :: Circling, circling, round and round they went. Waiting. The Sky Patrol would, one by one, find a perch or wide enough spot to land. Sora would be last, blocking off the western expance of the street with her bulk. Leathery wings fold elegantly against her sides. She and Mahri will stay there for now and watch.

Nemisis observed the doorknockers as they stomped their way into view. In the center of one of them he could make out Ranok. A small grin was given to the man. Honor was impressed. Intelligence was having a field day. If it were the time and place, he would try to pick them apart and have ten thousand questions for the blacksmith. But no, Intelligence would only be stuck turning that bolt, torn between the war and curiousity. he was truly uncomfortable.

Ixiel glares at the lycan, though does nothing at the moment.

Vuryal dropped 1 time-shifting bomb.

Nemisis said to Kirien, "We see him...You look....tough..."

Leoxander looked up from said 'Bomb'. "Do you think I give two s***s what happens to this hive, *@$Y^$..." That was another rude curse the player did not tempt to the hollow gods, but he'd said enough that evening to declare his fate. "All you bloody do is talk."

Kirien said to Nemisis, "Maybe not tough. Durable? That might be good."

Leoxander shouted, "Fight me, already!"

Vuryal laughs at the thought. "Then, perhaps you wish to make a wager, pirate? The life of, say, one lycan cub at stake?"

Nemisis said to Kirien, "Will Madness be forced to play....?"

Tiphareth shouted, "Gladly"

Ranok || The stripped down ballista on the Doorknockers each gives a click. No such verbal challenge, but between those and the enormous claymores or blades on the opposite arm, their intent is rather clear.

Leoxander shouted, "Why won't you just ditch your cowardice and come for what you want, you worthless piece of dust!"

Yasmine keeps close to Athyaron, one hand on his arm as she watches, waiting for whatever might ensue.

Kumorohyou listens to Vuryal's warning of a time-shifting bomb within one of Hollow's cities. Clenching the Porro prism in his hands, his tail swishing with a clicking sound made by the armor upon it, Kumori seems to be preparing for something. If Leo did not back down, perhaps there would be a chance to contain the "blast", either in Kelay or Rynvale should either be the targeted city.

Kirien said to Nemisis, "Never know, Nemi. I've no idea what's gonna happen or what we'll need.."

Leoxander knew he was backed up, whatever the situation.

Vuryal grins as he moves closer to Leoxander. "Oh, how I wished that my masters cared for a little thing like yourself. But alas, puppy, they don't. The last thing they want is a martyr."

Athyaron 's grip upon his crossbow tightens some, finger longingly wishing to squeeze the trigger and fire one straight through the Time Lord's heart, if he even damned had one. But now wasn't the time, nor place. No. It was best to wait, and see how this all played out.

The clock tolls midnight... The party begins.

Leoxander approached the parasite, equally. Perhaps they were a few feet away. "They're afraid, aren't they." He'd grin at the 'Time Lord', sadistically. "Just like you, filth."

Ordox smiles at such a massive gathering. Such emotions, such creatures, such detail that he can study...The relationships, the voices, reactions...friends and enemies all interacting with each other. One might think that the Shifter was salivating at all of his opportunities as he scans through the crowd, selecting each individual and memorizing their features, flaws, voices and characteristics.

Leoxander stared Vuryal, 'The Time Lord'... down.

Tysinni watches the showdown between Vuryal and Leoxander start to progress with something akin to anticipation. After all, this is what it had all been building to for days, right? The thief slips past a couple of people, getting a mite closer to the stage. She wanted to make sure she saw what ever was to happen. The clock strikes midnight and she tenses, ready.

Vuryal laughs, rather loudly at the words being tossed about by the lycan alpha. "Make your move, if you dare. Or perhaps I shall let the lich feast upon your soul. Or do you not fear him either?"

Kirien's hands were itching to rip up some earth around here.

Leoxander barked back to Vuryal, "Fight me alone."

Tiphareth appears, seemingly from nowhere, a dark and tenebrous aura following close behind before it spreads rapidly about the venue. The field of pure evil, sucking all hope from the vicinity seems to emanate from the Lichdrow as he appears. Eyes of turbulent flame direct toward Leoxander, "You wish to do battle, let us see just how truly weak you are."

Vuryal steps back as the lichdrow speaks. "Puppy, you are no match for me," he says, tauntingly as he wags a finger towards him. "Go run with your fleas."

Leoxander said to Tiphareth, "If you wish to fight for the parasite, SO BE IT."

Mahri stiffens on Sora's back, the dragon letting out a rumble of her own. The bomb, Leo there with the parasite. She didn't like it at all. The wing that had landed on the ground, mostly the smaller wyverns and gryphons, moved out of the larger beasts way. Sora would at least be polite enough to glare with glacier colored eyes at anyone standing in her way. Dragon and Rider wanted access to the gallows.

Leoxander sneered a look back at Vuryal. "You're pathetic."

Thea 's senses are on high alert, ready to quell any sudden shifts beneath her feet. She eyes Kirien, head slowly moving side to side, warning written there on her shimmering face that now lacks its usual smile and grace.

Vuryal laughs.

Leoxander leapt off the stage, to meet that challenge.

Leoxander locked his vision on Tiphereth, approaching.

Derry just chuckled at this whole thing, boy did he sign up for the right team.

Mahri kept her attention on Vuryal rather than alpha and lich.

Daath appears within the area, making his way with some damn effort, to stand near Tiphareth. The lich's terrible aura seemingly making his stomach not, and the sensation of hopelessness wash over him.

Upon the stage of the gallows in Kelay, a confrontation has begun. To the demise of the land, however, in a city is buried a time-shifting device. What is it, you ask? It will effectively obliterate one city to rubble. The timer has been primed and in 5 days, Hollow will be one city less. Let the hunt begin...

Kirien's attentions turned toward Tiphareth and Thea, focusing briefly on the former before affixing to the fae.

Nexx is hiding in a tree across the way. Her red eyes are a small and insignificant pair of lights set upon the unfolding events, only now brightening with sharper intent as they catch the arrival of the Drowlich.

Vuryal shouted, "And now, I shall display the latest creation!"

Vuryal picked up 1 time-shifting bomb.

Tysinni waits with bated breath.

Derry is just so damned giddy, this was beautiful to the young vampire as he watched onward.

Ranok || Each Doorknocker stands silent sentinel. No hints to their abilities is given, save that the quite obvious fact that they're not going to be easy to put down.

Ordox could not decide what form he wanted to take before stepping from behind the gallows. Clearly he was not noticed, and wanted to keep it that way while getting a better look at the action. He finally decides upon the form of the former female half-elf he had spied in the tavern earlier that night, his limbs and skin changing in length, some parts growing and others folding in on themselves to morph into the identity of Tysinni before making his way out calmly to observe.

Kumorohyou steps just a bit closer, perhaps to meet the gaze of the Time Lord or the Drowlich behind his chitinous, translucent visor. In his native tongue, "Broken hourglasses, broken souls. Trying to shatter them further changes little." Perhaps they would pick up the meaning of his words through the Shaman's massive Spirit, or perhaps not. Regardless, the armoured feline vanishes, on a mission of his own.

Nemisis looked at Thea and Tiphareth appearing into view. A small groan is given before saying, "This is going to be quite troublesome......yet fun..." Inside his head Intelligence turned the bolt and said to Honor, "I advise we join." Honor nodded and extended a hand which prompted Intelligence to take it. Those personas joined into one, forming Hunter. A strong spike of energy can be felt by those quite sensitive to such phenomena. The chaotic aura about him slowly began to lick out his pores like mist. From there the man fell silent. The time for words were over.

Niawtu || Upon the child's appearance one would notice that her eyes are closed. Her skin is a deep and dark gray, and she is more skeletal than ever. After a while she opens her eyes. There, where two gray eyes should be are two pitch black orbs. They have the appearance of wet black ink laying within them. Every so often the blackness would slide or flow away showing the creepy gray eyes, as usual, but they would soon be covered in the black inkiness once more. As she looks upon the crowd her raven black lips pull up, into an almost demonic smirk. She wears the usual collar, but now she also wears a black dress, black pants, and a black fishnet sleev over her left arm, the 13 brand of hers is highly visible upon her right upper arm. She speaks not a word, but one would sense a monsterously dark aura eminating from the child that was once so pure. A slight, and imensly creepy giggles emites forth from her lips, and seems to resound from every corner of Kelay Way. Her spindly, black clawed, fingers flex every now and then, and stretch, as though she is prepared to strike at any moment. Her stance, however, is totally straight backed. The child, otherwise, remains very still and silent as her inky black eyes take in the crowd. She even cocks her head a bit, possibly increasing the eerieness that her new eyes seem to cast off.

Tysinni looks between the more vocal people, placing them on different sides in her mind. She was quite curious to find out what would happen tonight. The thief takes a few steps to the left, slipping through a gap between two people to gain a better view. Wait....was that.... She blinks her eyes, quite sure her mind was playing tricks on her. Surely she couldn't've seen a twin of herself in the crowd. After a moment, Ty decides she had hallucinated and turns back to watch the action.

Mahri :: Sora's icy glare settles on the appearance of a child that smells off. Way off. The dragon's head sways back and forth with unease, her maw working a stream of icy breath and the air would chill a few degrees.

Ciya says under their breath, "Let the blood spill this night."

Thea shakes her head, tinge of guilt being swallowed as she looks on at Niawtu, lower lip coming to rest between exacting ivories as the Time Lord is given a passing glance. And there was Tiphareth and Leo...ready to fight to the death. Leave it to Vuryal to turn the entire world upside down in one evening.

Araina sidesteps the edge of the crowd, hood pulled low over her features. She spoke to no one just yet, merely kept her gaze for familiar faces, an attempt to keep a close an eye as possible. Course with the Timelord before then, she didn't see what could be done. She only hoped her children were looked after.

Ilydia slowly moved into the area, almost gliding. She came merely to watch and observe so that she could know the truth of the matter though she felt sure the one she truly sought would be here too. She grinned slightly when she heard the giggle. She could feel it, the energy in the area, the shadows within the child. Ilydia could feel "ilydia" stirring within, uncomfortable at the sight, but Ilydia merely enjoyed her view.

Vuryal said, "As an added benefit to this display of two warriors, I shall give the winner a prize. If Leoxander wins, I shall remove the wraithen virus from Niawtu, free and clear. If Tiphareth wins, I shall award him a piece of armor or weapon of his choice."

Niawtu grins a bit, her raven black lips lightly stretching over her wolf-like teeth, at the words of her master. A quiet laugh emites from her throat at the thought of anyone winning, but other than this, the child-wraith speaks naught.

Ciya said, "We hope a fight breaks out, for we shall readily fight."

Mahri finally turned away from Vuryal to settle her gaze on Leo and Tiphareth. Her brows draw in with a moment of confusion that soon eases as eyes widen with alarm. Well. Godsdamn it anyway.

Kirien cannot see Niawtu but he sure as hell can feel her; an ominous presence that the ground beneath their feet seemed to protest against. A growl escaped the vampire, shoulders tensing, fangs bared with ears pinned back. His gaze drifted to Thea. But a flicker as it might have been, the empath seemed to catch that emotion that tainted the fae briefly. He snorted.

Ordox basks in glee as he overhears Vuryal's words. Names...Not just one, but three! This was perfect for him. He had the looks, the voices, the emotions, and now their names. Undoubtedly the shifter could pull off a convincing presentation at this point should it be needed...

Jolie booted some hapless fowl out from under feet, it having crossed the wrong bit of road and gotten in her path. The necromancer gave the appearance of having idly strolled by, and would halt nearby, folding her arms.

Derry said to Jolie, "You came just in time."

Ranok || Nothing stirs in the two metal hulks that sit there, weapons ready. If Ranok had seen Nia, he made no indication of his caring. The smaller Doorknocker, called Johnny, thuds around to make a loose V at Leo's back. Leo at the point, Ranok and Johnny in their machines at the tips.

Lahk coalesces from the slips of dark and soot between chimneys and broken eaves to stand atop the roofs of the town square, looking impassively at the drama below.

Nemisis observed every inch of Niawtu's transformation with a very quick glance. He scratched his head as he saw the number 13. Then a familiar voice can be heard...Ciya's. Memories flashed through his head of the man's possession of the demons. Strands chaining together wondering if the man has something to do with the girl's number. Hunter truly did not care but it would be useful information to know should things change, which they often did. A small exhale of more smoke is given as he watched on.....waiting...

Jolie canted a green sliver of a look to Derry. "I have something that belongs to you, vampire."

Vuryal glares out over the crowd. "Any that interfere in the proceedings will be punished..."

Athyaron watches Leo and Tiph intensely, honestly hoping this turns out in their favor. It had to, for Niawtu, for Rynvale...hell for the rest of Hollow. His finger still rested upon the trigger of his crossbow, ready to fire if need be.

Derry grinned towards Jolie," Oh?"

Ciya 's emerald hues look through the gathered faces as they fall upon pack members whom they have face. "Athyaron, How are your feet healing?"

Ranok || Johnny makes a gesture that would be familiar to all in the crowd. Arm pumping upwards in an uppercut and the other hand slapping on the crock of the elbow.

Jolie said nothing to Derry, just now. Her lips flinched into a smirk, and she cast her gaze about, impassively taking in the various factions present.

Araina carefully scanned the faces, keeping her gaze from that of the Alpha now offering his life, to the death. She couldn't look at him just yet. However, a brief hand was glanced over Tysinni's shoulder. A glance gave away her features. Athyaron was glanced at, but the female beside him had the druid continue walking on toward her son. Forehead was lowered to the back of his shoulder.

Athyaron turns his head slightly as Ciya addresses him, a smirk forming upon his lips behind his mask. Instinctively the hunter lifted his free hand, closing all but one of his fingers in an obscene gesture toward the other fiend. "Lycanthropy virus has its perks..as does bein' a healer. I'm amazed you're still walkin after all the bolts I put in your body."

Ranok || A metallic clash was produced as Johnny performed the gesture, as well.

Nemisis eyes trailed over to Jolie as two voice spoke in unison, "So you've appeared. It seems you're still mobile."

Tysinni watches Niawtu with great sadness on her face. Whether or not part of it was guilt was left up to the observer. A semi-step is taken in the child's direction before she freezes, reminding herself not to show her hand. The thief forces herself to relax, once again looking over the crowd. A flash of coppery red hair and again Ty has a strange sensation of seeing something familiar. What was it?

Eilyo was on her way to the tavern when a crowd outside caught her eye. The woman stops, standing off a bit, watching the crowd with a cautiously curious gaze.

Daath moves to stand beside Jolie.

Jolie sliced a quick look toward Nemisis, "Why would I not be so?"

Daath said to Jolie, "Master Thorne. *inclines his head out of respect*"

Jolie muttered to Daath, "Mistress."

Ciya said to Athyaron, "You should face us, that way two members of your clan die this day."

Daath said to Jolie, "Very well, Mistress."

Nalani told your clan, "Thank's Mahri."

Yasmine braces her hand against the other wolf's arm, giving it a slight squeeze for him to pay attention and ignore the customary, distracting insults.

Jolie seemed vaguely amused by that.

Athyaron said to Ciya, "Your turn will come soon enough. Fate has decided that Tiphareth and Leoxander shall fight."

Daath said to Jolie, "It seems we run into one another at pressing times... a pity."

Nemisis indicated to Vuryal saying to jolie, "We heard fiendy over there tortured you. Last time you were in a jam, you were barely mobile."

Athyaron felt Yas' squeeze and immediately diverts his attention back.

Zondo moves around the edge of the crowd, single-eyed gaze scanning the even curiously.

Ciya said to Athyaron, "We are up and moving around for we are...More than human. "

Jolie shrugged toward Nemisis. She wore her scars below her garb. "Yet, here I am." She canted her head toward Daath's then.

Jolie whispered something to Daath.

Kirien might've squinted toward Jolie, expression vaguely blank and eye hidden beneath his visor. He wiggled his fingers at her as though in some mimicry of the greeting Maladroit always offered him, before he said, "Squids," and nodded.

Jolie blinked at the mention of .. cephalopods. And turned her attention to the impending fight, her face a mask as expressionless as that of her gaunt.

Eilyo glanced over towards Athyaron and spotted a familiar face. She quickly made her way over towards them, despite whatever issue she had with the male. Or rather, him with her. "So, who's fighting?"

Nemisis grins saying to Jolie, "You're one messy person Tenebrae."

Daath whispered something to Jolie.

Athyaron said to Eilyo, "-offhandedly- King of the bottomdwellers 'imself and Leo."

Eilyo frowns at Athyaron a moment and then glances towards the two who were about to fight. "I take it's about to start?"

Ciya said to Athyaron, "You should show respect to the drow..We mean, how can you argue with a woman run society?"

Ordox whispered something to Jolie.

Athyaron said to Ciya, "I respect only a few fool. And I'm amazed a priest hasn't exorcised you..."

Araina heard the thought, and thought she wanted to be no where near the two, now three that Eilyo joined them, she went over, just behind him to whisper, " They're safe? You swear it?"

Nemisis said to Athyaron, "Not as easy one would think"

Araina told your clan, "I think we all might be extremely pissed if you lose Leo. Good Luck."

Jolie whispered something to Ordox.

Nemisis said to Zondo, "We see you've shown up for the festivities"

Athyaron nods in response to Araina before tilting his head in the direction of the one clutching his arm before speaking mentally again.

Kirien stood stock still, all his focus on the Alpha.

Nemisis said to Kirien, "You smell different"

Eilyo whispered something to Yasmine.

Tiphareth looks over the lycan as he approaches, laughing slightly to himself, the gravely echos of his otherworldly voice reverberating throughout the area as he speaks. "You've truly made your last mistake dog." Overtones of the final word bounce about for some seconds as the Lichdrow reacts. A single hand is thrust outward, the magical orb of darkness so known from his people falling upon the venue like an obscuring atrous haze. The darkness far larger than any he's formulated in the past, encompassing the entire street and surrounding buildings. Rapidly the Patron lofts into the air, levitating upward at an alarming rate until some 30 feet above the roadway, his eyes burning unseen in the darkness whilst his magical vision pierces the black venue. Adept movements begin from his venerable bones, silently manipulating the vast energies within him, a renewed force about the undead as he'd shuffled of his worn and aged body. A tapestry of arcane force begins building about the area, crackling through the darkness as a wall forms about the lycan's form. Continued gesticulations of Tiphareth's adept hands bring the tapestry into a dome like shape over Leoxander's area before a final thrust of his hand sends the entire structure collapsing upon him. Rushing forth with a force of mystic energy rarely seen within these lands, the evershrinking arcane dome surges toward the lycan, attempting to crush the man with an unmistakable blast of concussive force.

Araina shook her head silently before making her way back over to her son, one of the few she still trusted. She didn't reach for him, but she kept an eye over his shoulder, catching her first glimpse of the male she now answered to as Alpha.

Yasmine whispered something to Eilyo.

Vuryal watches the arcanic dome with extreme delight, all the while keeping a peripheral eye upon Niawtu, to ensure no funny business occurs during this battle.

Eilyo whispered something to Yasmine.

Zondo said to Nemisis, "Why I could never miss a good fight."

Niawtu grins as she watches over the battle. She can sense that Vuryal is keeping a close eye upon her, but understands perfectly why. As she watches the evil little grin remains upon her features.

Leoxander approached easily enough. Another stroll on Kelay, you might call it. But... he'd about damn had it with this war. This was an effort at 'taking the power back' in a land he never cared to rule. Alpha was alpha, Rynvale or Hive. He'd die with his newfound beliefs, if that was necessary to keep territory for the pack. This arena was nothing strange to the beast's senses, and hearing, sight, sound, they all locked upon his opponent in the crowd at once. If this was one more step closer to Vuryal's end, so be it. Laughter... would go ignored. Battle would begin. It would start like any other symphony, clashes and clangs, something to catch the attention. Drow... Lycan, magic... as expected. It was the one thing he didn't necessary have power or defense to. But was the haze serious? This was a wolf, a nocturnal creature a fog filled forest, and this was one of his greatest hunting assets, this so-called 'haze'. How would Tiphareth know exactly where such a comfortable, feral creature could exist in that blur? He might not, for as he formed this magical spell blades were already produced and splicing from the darkness like crescent missiles - one, two... three, from the six at his ribs, thrown at a thirty foot radius as sharply as he'd fire arrows. He was already moved from that 'frontal' area before the drow might concoct his spell. Now he'd be on defense, rapidly, against the ranged, physical attempt. Aimed precisely for: throat, groin, kneecap. If any of that concussive force hit, he'd hear a grunt from an entirely different direction as aimed.

Vuryal watches on as the alpha makes his assault upon the lichdrow.

Araina :: Simaria followed quietly behind, making a swift contact with the druid, a hand on her wrist as she murmured something in the female's ear. Araina merely glanced back grimly before falling silent once again, keeping hold of the dryad's hand.

Ordox had carefully made his way across the opening, making sure not to interfere with the duel. He watches the battle through the corner of his eye while looking Niawtu up and down.

Bella doesn't want to watch, but yet she is, throw her fingers while hiding behind someone.

Tiphareth looks onward with disgust as the rapidly moving lycan evades his best efforts, though even moreso angered by the blades rushing forth toward him. Having moved upwards from his former position, the first couple blades, aimed for his knees and groin, miss entirely as he'd lofted upward, though the third blade meets firmly with the left leg of the Patron's form, penetrating his flesh with a sickening rip before sticking into the bone beneath. As with any undead, the Lichdrow felt no pain and the man's attempted attack was rather humorous, though no chuckle was released, only increased intensity upon the battle at hand. A singular flourish of his hand sends the newly crafted Xalious wood stave suddenly into his grasp, the Eldermage levitating slowly to the side as he moves away from Leoxander's location. The arborous implement is leveled upon the lycan's ever-moving position, finding it rather difficult to track the speedy foe he falls back upon one of his favored castings. Spinning the stave within his deft grasp, a short utterance spills from the mage, causing both ends of the magical object to glow with a veridian hue. The tip is suddenly stopped as it aims toward the ground, releasing the transmutational energy into the earth below as it's rapidly mutated into a vast pool of thick mud some three feet in depth. Only moments are allowed for the lycan to descend into the mire before the but of the Xalious wood relinquishes it's enchantment as the mud returns to its formerly solid form. Two swipes of his wand send arc shaped bands of arcane force rushing toward the lycan's position, hopefully meeting with flesh and rending body in two.

Leoxander had his speed, if nothing else. The rogue's greatest attribute would be his quickness, in this fight, in any other. Combined with the pissed off nature of a lycanthope, very well lethal, but he'd not take that secondary form until necessary. Equally lethal is his human form, which, in this time Tiphareth has taken to acquire a weapon - Leoxander has acquired one of his own. As the drow might look, the Lycan might grin, gnomish firestarter device drawn from pocket to spark into a light that might cause the dark skinned elf to flinch, just a bit. Who knew. The enchantment would unleash, undoubtedly, but so would a fire ended arrow that was aimed from the drawn, metal woven strings of the compound bow he'd had on those person. Given his defense in Rynvale, these arrows were tipped in sticky sap and ready, and that Arcane force would likely not even intercept the flawless aim of cross tipped barb toward the center of his opponent's body, even as he had to realize, right after, he was attacked, too. Not with mere fire bolts, but that vulnerability to magic he could so narrowly escape. A press of the traction in his 'well-gripped' boots meant to send him sprinting, but as those 'forces' of magic hit the ground he'd be tumbling from their impact, not quite rendered in two but perhaps singed at the edges.

Niawtu || As the child watched the batlle she suddenly felt some eyes upon her and glares towards Ordox with her inky black orbs.

Ordox 's half-elf eyes of Tysinni match Niawtu's in return. A deft grin paints his newly acquired female lips as he knows that this mysterious child somehow, someway knows the truth the shifter is concealing.

Ordox feels a shudder pass through his body. Slight flashes of his true, pale form ripple along stolen flesh due to his concentration being interrupted. His natural pools of onyx pupils are all that remain different, focused back on Niawtu's, meeting her own.

Tiphareth curses under his breath, the slippery foe had indeed once again escaped his trap and attempted strike, this could not stand. Looking down upon the situation, the Lichdrow notes as the lycan sets the arrow ablaze and launches it in his direction, unaware of how the man had ascertained his possition so adeptly, the Eldermage glares onward at the approaching bold. A palm aimed outward, he chants a short incantation setting the arrows blaze into a fiery inferno, its size and turbulence having completely consumed the arrow within moments after its departure from the string, the metal tip of the arrow arches upward and falls harmlessly some feet below the Lich's form without the increased enertia of the arrow. Growing angry at the lycan's continued resistance to his attacks, the energy builds within him, gathering within his chest as he utters a sereis of arcane summonations, gripping his staff with increassing pressure he directs the energy suddeenly onto the ground some feet from the lycan's area. A small portal seems to open within the earthen path, out from the enchanted hole comes pouring a bevy of scorpion like creatures. A final shout emerges from the Eldermage, shaking the buildings with stentorian force, as the sumonations rush to surround the lycan, stinging tails dripping with an unnatural toxin as they threaten to pierce his flesh.

Leoxander meant to end this. It wasn't as though he hadn't warned the Eldermage, before. Casualties in wars were casualties, be it wolf blooded body or dark elf. If only the Parasite would fight his own battles, perhaps Tiphareth and Leoxander would be splitting a bottle of rum, rather than feuding in the streets. Such was, sadly, not the case. Magic took moments, and in those moments Leoxander was watching his hovering chanting enemy the whole while, a little annoyed with his arrogance. Who the hell did he think he was fighting? Leo took that borrowed time for summoning to grab the grenade Jolie had leant him for the time lord, as it seemed no better time than now to take advantage of the Naphtha she'd offered. Ten grand a pop, and yet he threw it down like it was a ceremonial wedding glass, shattering it not far from his feet. That same firestarting device would be sacrificed, once again, to the fray, for an eruption of flame that might keep those poisonous creatures at bay for the time it would take him to grab one of those precious, wickedly curved, dragon forged blades from his belt. They wouldn't so typically hold fire if not for the fact he stooped to drag it in that hour-burning fuel, catching the lengthy knife aflame, before he would chuck it violently in a boomerang arch for Tiphareth's throat. True. He'd have those creatures to deal with when the fire should subside, or perhaps when they circled 'round, but he seemed to have a certain affinity for that hellflame that the Kit Vampire had invoked. It hardly phased him, as it would the arachnids and drow.

Tiphareth grimaces as the man once again fails to fall to his attacks, he was growing more weary with each passing moment of this battle and indeed wished its eminent end. Though as his ire had been raised, so too did Leoxander thrust the blade with astounding strength in this direction. The fires blaze with increasing fury as the blade nears with each passing moment, the newly formed Lich now eager to test the strength of his unholy bones. Both arms are places before his visage in a shielding motion, the sword coming with perfect aim to meet direction at the location of his forearms, snaps of sinew and muscles may be heard along with the sicking sound of blade meeting bone. Set deeply into the Lichdrow's arm, the sword crosses his bones in a T shape. Dropping the newly adorned arm to his side, Tiphareth looks down at the weapon embedded into his flesh. "How quaint."

Ordox whispered something to Niawtu.

Niawtu whispered something to Ordox.

Leoxander hit the street, then, hard. He did not move.

Ordox turns away from the wraith thrall, an appearance of smart confidence glowing through his shifted half-elf pores, "Parading...? No. I wouldn't dream of it."

Jolie closed the distance between herself and the battling duo, green eyes canting up to the Eldermage, his name called over the hubbub before any fatal strike might ensue, hopefully.

Niawtu glancing at Ordox once more then back to the duel. When Leoxander hits the ground her inky eyes to to flicker from black to her bright silver eyes, and back... Her body seems a slight bit tensed.

Leoxander was overwhelmed by a pile of scorpions.

Ranok || Both metal hulks move. Their arms raise up. And their feet shift slightly. Almost like they were preparing to leap into things.

Athyaron growled as Leoxander fell, crossbow raised and pointed directly where Tiphareth's heart should hopefully be.

Ciya whispered something to Vuryal.

Araina jumped to the male's side, a hand on that which held the crossbow. She growled softly into his ear, " No. Don't. We don't want you dead as well."

Daath points the crown of his staff directly at Athyaron, the words of a spell ready to be spoken should the foolish lycan try anything.

Ciya watches Athyaron, and says to the lycan, "Make one move fool, and we shall step in to sever your head.

Eilyo frowns deeply, knowing the man wouldn't want to hear it from her, but is unable to stop herself. "Not now, Athy."

Derry just watches onward, this is why he wanted power, this was an example of what Derry was looking for, and he kept his eyes on the drowlich.

Leoxander did not move.

Kirien remained as he had been the entire time; a statuesque figure of sort, only now his jaw had visibly tightened, hands clenched into fists at his sides, tight enough to draw blood. White-tipped ears were perked up and appeared to be listening intently.

Niawtu sighs and, though the inky nature of her eyes wouldn't show it, she rolls her eyes. Then her black lips move softly as she mutters her rhyme..."King or queen… Preist or knight… All are equal in our sight…. Drow, Dandy… Healer, fool…. None escape Death's final rule…. Merchant, Lycan, Blacksmith, Thief….. Rich or poor, all come to grief… The time has come to make amends…. Judgement day upon these lands… " She smirks and then says nearly like a hiss "What's the point of a prophecy if no one will listen?" and then she remains silent, once more.

Nemisis did not move, yet even he was on edge on what was about to happen. There were weapons aimed everywhere and he has yet to draw his. He honestly didn't even know whom to aim at. He waited for that one unlucky person

Ciya said to Nemisis, "Perhaps we shall have our chance to send more to their makers this eve."

Tiphareth floats amidst the air, flames licking about his form, charring the undead flesh which hangs loosely upon him. A short incantation sends the fire squelching with a hiss as he lowers himself to the ground. He had grown weary of this battle, and it needed to end, now... There would be no more 'playing'. A swipe of his hand sends the magical orb of darkness out of view, restoring the moon-glow once more upon the streets of Kelay. Arms spread wide with palms faced forward, he suddenly clasps them together with a rapid movement as sticky webs of spider silk rush outward from a number of unseen locations. Rushing forward to ensnare the speedy lycan, the Patron finally has his chance to keep Leoxander in place within the unyielding web. Unholy steps upon the soft soil bring him ever closer to the lycan as he ignores everyone and everything within the area, extending his hand to place his now-charred hand upon the pirate's forehead. The darkened aura of pure evil seems to thicken and grow upon his contact with the man's flesh as Tiphareth issues a laugh which echoes through the forest. Decay begins to appear upon Leoxander's flesh, holes of rot spreading with each passing moment as the touch of death claims more of the lycan's life force. Finally, Leoxander's skin takes on a blackened hue, shriveling with desiccation before the Eldermage releases his grasp. It is unknown what is to happen with the man's soul, but his life has most assuredly been drained by the unholy Lichdrow.

Athyaron growled as just about everyone, including his own family got in the way, Araina successful and pushing the bow down some. "This ain't over..." he says, his gaze lingering upon Ciya.

Ordox searches Jolie's pants, but finds nothing.

Araina thinks that Ordox might want to be careful messing with Jolie's pants.

Zondo moves silently to stand by Nemisis, a hand reaching out to rest on the draconian's shoulder. "I wouldn't get too jumpy yet my old friend. The fighting hs yet to begin...

Daath said to Athyaron, "You bet your ass it isn't."

Kirien's ears twitched.

Vuryal watches with bated breath until the completion of the sacrifice to the eldermage. The fiend begins to clap, the applause quiet defeaning, in fact. "Good show, Tiphareth, Patron of Trist'oth. Name your ware, and it shall be yours."

Jolie fell to her knees. No words. No wailing. Just a hand, over her heart.

Leoxander ceases to exist, in this world.

Daath moves towards the necromancer, and says. " Come, let me take you away from here."

Ciya said to Athyaron, "Then call us out, issue us a duel to the death then?"

Veriun sat on a nearby roof. Simply watching. A pair of eyes, nothing more. No movements. No weapons. No words. An observer, absolute.

Athyaron said to Ciya, "Fate has already claimed one life tonight. Yours can wait a little longer.."

Jolie was unresposive. If the drow wished her to move, he'd have to pick her up off the dirt himself.

Mahri 's off Sora and on the ground in a flat out run. Disbelief had the lycan shoving through the crowd and kicking scorpians aside to get to the alpha. With a slight hiss and flicks of her fingers, the lich-called arachnids are sent scurrying away. "Leo..?" Lowering to the ground, head bent, the beta reaches towards him, already the tips of her fingers taking on that black-tinged green glow. A lot of those scorpians die in the first few minutes she tries to force life into the downed pirate. And she'd do all that despite threats and leveling of weapons. She's not even put off by the appearance of long decay. Hell, she hardly seems to care while more and more energy, her own and any small creature she might spindle it off of, is poured into a body that isn't coming back to life, no matter how she exhausted herself. This wasn't like Lucien who still had some spark left. There was, simply, nothing. And Mahri wouldn't stop.

Daath said to Ciya, "A worthless coward. Do not waste your time. He is but words, and nothing more."

Thea heaves a sigh, right eye welling as she moves towards Jolie. Much as Leo had upset her only days before, she knew the magnitude of this for her friend and empathy would get the best of the Druidess. She wraps an arm around Jolie's frame, pursed lips offering a soothing 'Shhh...' , clinging to the woman.

Ciya said to Athyaron, "I think the time for waiting has passed, it is the time for actions. "

Ordox said to Jolie, "*staring at her display of grief* A pity you did not get the chance to perform the deed yourself like you wanted."

Araina would release the male soon enough, turning to survey Mahri with glistening orbs. If he chose to go after Ciya, that was his own decision, she merely hoped he'd wait til after the time lord had gone. Daath does indeed pick Jolie up, with surprising strength for the mage. And carries her back to her home, with naught but a few words of magic.

Lahk closes his eyes briefly at the loss of a fellow wolf, then tilts his maned head skyward to howl what may remain of the fallen's being to the beyond.

Ciya 's emerald hues shimmer from beyond the demon's maul covering their face.

Eilyo glanced over at Jolie and silently watches her. The woman's face was stoic as she tried to sort out how she felt. Part of her was happy to see the woman suffer as she had, but at the same time she knew that pain and wished no one had to feel that loss.

Jolie allowed the pixie's arms about her, feeling them not. She couldn't see now, not clearly enough to watch Mahri's futile effort. It was probably just as well.

Nemisis did not move. He observed the death of Leoxander, a person whom he silently respected for some odd reason. He then looked towards the man's allies, watching the reactions as the death slowly burned an image into each other their souls, a silent pain for some. Looking towards Ciya he warned, "Careful Ciya, you best not harm none of ours this eve...." As Zondo's hand rested upon his shoulder he simply said, "We know. Our moves will be precise if anything."

Kirien memorised every last note, right up until that heartbeat ceased and he was left with only an echo. He broke, then, but was utterly silent. After a long pause he'd be approaching Mahri and the husk of a body left behind, sinking to his knees to place a shaking hand on the woman's shoulder.

Muraski ---"Interesting," was muttered from the thief's mouth as he stood up straight. "Note to self, the drow isn't to have his pockets 'checked'." With that he walked into the establishment.

Jolie is dragged aloft by Daath. She spared Ordox a few numbed words, "But I did..."

Athyaron wasn't fool enough to try an all out attack right now...no matter how tempting it was to shut Ciya up...and damned if he wasn't going to ensure it at some point later." Turning his back to Ciya he simply just turned toward the lycaness at his side and wrapped his arms around her. "Yas...." is all he says.

Yasmine places a hand on Athyaron's arm, steadying, reminding him to remain if anything calm. Right now was not a time to step out of line, yet.

Vuryal shouted, "Let it be known that the drow and the Empire form a pact this eve. So begins the end..."

Thea watches Daath heave her friend up, patting his shoulder as he takes leave she whispers, "Take care of her, Daath.."

Derry just watched Jolie crumble, and he watched as friends and the alike gathered around her, he had no time to deal with this. He made a mental note to remember to check in on her as he watched the crowd around him react to the fallen Alpha.

Mahri sagged, that healing light flickered. Kirien's lucky to be vampire, she can't syphon off that life-giving force from him. But, anyone close and living might feel a bit more tired than they had a few moments ago. Mahri's own strength is waning. She wasn't called stubborn for nothing.

Daath said to Thea, "I shall, Queen Thea."

Araina said nothing as she sank to her knees next to Mahri, a glance given to her son before she looked back, to those of the pack still there. " Dedication..." Whispered words, a suggestion perhaps.

Ciya said to Daath, "We wish to end that boob..Their whole clan needs to be iradicated."

Niawtu actually shudders a bit. Whatever was left of her old self... Whatever purity her soul had left... This site had broken it.... All of it.... Another of her friends. Gone. A deep growl emites from the child's throat and she clasps her head in pain, holding back another shriek caused by it. This round, this final round, of pain causes the child to fall to her knees as many waves of inky fog flow through her, beneath her skin. After a long while she no long growls, and her hands loosen their grip and fall to her sides. A grin plays upon her black lips, and an eerie giggle chimes through the air. The child stands back up, as though the pain never happened, and opens her eyes. Rather than the inky darkness that covered her eyes just moments before, now her eyes were black where the white should be, and her iris's were a shiny silver, as though metal formed them. Her skin is now a deeper dark gray, and the dark aura surrounding her seems far worse than before. The child's eyes slide over the crowd, and a toothy grin plays upon her lips.

Daath said to Ciya, "We shall. Soon enough."

Jolie whispered something to Daath.

A rumbling is heard through the land, a monstrous voice defecating itself upon Hollow. "The cities of Gamorg, Vhys, Kregus, Alithrya, and Ferminville are hereby given an ultimatum to become Imperial colonies or face my wraiths. The emperor expects a reply within two days..."

Thea approaches Mahri, hand squeezing her shoulder firmly, "It is time, Mahri. Let him go.."

Ciya whispered something to Daath.

Athyaron said to Ciya, "You need to scoop the sand out of your nethers. Whole reason you want revenge is we denied your insane ass entry."

Zondo nods his head slowly, single-eyed gaze cast about the people before him. Some happy, some sad, some just itching for fighting and uncaring at the death of the man who fought. "Indeed, the time is not yet for thing to unfold for anyone. The winning side has yet to know they have won. This is but a small battle and so through his sacrifice hope shall arise." The vampire's words are spoken with an odd distance in his voice and nothing more further than that. Removing his hand from the shoulder of Nemisis, he continues to gaze about the people layed before him, the 'pawns'.

Kirien wanted her to keep going, wanted to foolishly believe it might somehow restore life into that body. He could feel the way the beta began to waver at his side though and gripped her shoulder with a little more force, his forehead pressed to her upper arm. "It stopped, Mahri. It won't come back." Her name, for once, spoken in an attempt to snap her out of it.

Eilyo turned her attention, silently watching Athyaron and Yasmine a moment. She felt like a shadow here. She didn't know Leoxander, she didn't the drowlich either. She knew a lot of the people here, and half of those grieving over Leo she was steadfast enemies with, the other were friends. But she was still an outsider to all of this. Always, an outsider. The woman frowns, fidgeting with the strap on her satchel unsure whether to stay or head home.

Daath whispered something to Jolie.

Ciya said to Athyaron, "We sought entry to play the part of a mole. Our intentions are to serve Lord Vuryal. You proved not to be so stupid after all. We are going to crush you under our combined might."

Daath whispered something to Ciya.

Mahri shrugs off Thea's touch. At least she thought she did. "No.." her voice is thick, like perhaps the chords didn't want to work properly, the word slurred. "Can't…not yet."

Jolie was abruptly magicked away to her homeland, where she'd claw at the face of anybody attempting to get close to her for a time.

Ciya whispered something to Daath.

Thea 's voice is now commanding, her grasp firmer still, "Yes! Now! Let him go, Mahri."

Daath disappears into the night with Jolie in his arms. Snap.

Athyaron simply turns away from Ciya once again, and lets go of Yas, Eilyo going ignored. Yes, even now he hadn't forgiven her. Slowly he moved towards Mahri, plaching his hand upon the shoulder of the one who had turned him. "Mahri...stop..."

Vuryal walks down from the gallows, though not before whisking Niawtu away. His intent is to draw closer to the shriveled remains of the alpha, to do what with, one can only have nightmares about.

Veriun said to Mahri, "You will only waste your life. Do you intend to bring further greif today, rather than make the blood of your freind be paid for?"

Tiphareth descends slowly into the earth, saying nothing to anyone, his destination unknown.

Araina knew it would do no good, but maybe this was something the Beta needed to do. Quietly, she took the woman's hand, she was likely in no position to refuse and leaned in. A rare moment of what some would call affection had her nuzzling the woman with the lightest touch, whispering quietly.

Araina whispered something to Mahri.

Nemisis began move towards Mahri. Honor's harsh attitude was becoming apparent in Hunter's mode but Intelligence reason balanced it out. Silent steps finally brought him to her back before he knelt down and whispered, "Don't kill yourself trying to bring him back. He wouldn't want that. Honor his death by carrying on his fight."

Tysinni had watched the ending of Leoxander's life with more than a little shock. She hadn't believed he would lose. This war was taking a grievous toll on the people she knew. Her gaze turns to Nia, taking in her transformation with a grimace of pain/anger. The thief had never felt so helpless in her entire life.

Kirien's ears pinned back abruptly when the fiend approached, his tail an agitated blur behind him, a growl rumbling deep in his throat. "Stay the f*** away from him." Underfoot, the street shudders with the almost as if with the same fury and grief rolling off the vampire in waves.

Mahri stopped. But not because others asked or demanded she do so. Mahri stopped because there was nothing left of herself to give the corpse. That and, Vuryal was there. Mahri refused to look up at the time lord but a growl, low and menacing, sounded in her throat.

Ciya said to Nemisis, "You take their side?"

Kirien kept a firm grip on Mahri, possibly to help hold her up.

Vuryal said to Mahri, "Run along, flea breeder, or you shall only hope for what this puppy had done to him..."

Veriun chuckles and tips a hat he isn't wearing towards Nemesis. Or perhaps it's to be addressed 'honor'. He has a slight smile. But not a happeny one. "It seems my input was less than needed."

Derry said to Vuryal, "When you have a second..."

Mahri said to Vuryal, "I am going to kill you. "

Ciya whispered something to Vuryal.

Athyaron said to Kirien, "Kirien! Down! -his tone was commanding, one he had used before the merge- " Mahri meant it. Flat and cold were those words.

Zondo smirks, watching the people he knew once all working together almost to the same ends. Yet he is unknown to anyone anymore, having left the land too often in the years most seemed to forget the man. He does not venture forth to say any words to Mahri, the beta already has a crowd. Instead the vampire leaves the scene, nothing can be said or done now.

Vuryal tosses his arms wide, the fiend almost beckoning the beta to try. "I stand right here, poppet."

Yasmine stays back, giving the others their space. For now she would wait, wait until she was called forward.

Araina glanced back at Athyaron. She doubted the fox would care what tone he used, but she placed her free hand on his arm, a slightly pleading look in those emerald hues. The druid didn't want to lose anyone else.

Eilyo watched the Time Lord and Mahri silently and stoically. They hated each other, the two women, but Eilyo couldn't help but be on Mahri's side when it came to Vuryal. War, trouble, death, and chaos always seemed to run amok when he was about.

Mahri probably would have taken Vuryal up on that invitation. If she could have stood. "I am going to bury my dead. You can't have him. He's coming home with us. And when we have mourned, I will come for you, Parasite."

Nemisis said to Ciya, "We take the side of those whom we defend. He was not one of them, but he was something to them. As long as no harm comes to them, we will not make a move."

Kirien turned one of those hard stares on Athyaron, sharp fangs glistening. "Don't you -dare- try an' tell me what to do."

Veriun smiled at Vuryal and tilted his head. Speaking in a 'what if' tone of voice as he adressed the parasite "Perhaps... it would be better to delay this plan in favor of another one. I'd think the resistance this place would offer at the moment to be quite a nuisence, no?"

Mahri said to Kirien, "Settle, Fox."

Ciya said to Nemisis, "Then you chose the losing side..."

Nemisis placed a grip upon Kirien's shoulder and said simply, "You know this might have happened. Control yourself. That is what makes a man."

Tanya moves to the tavern wall her delicate features are hidden. Letting her crimson hues dance from person to person, but staying rather quiet

Athyaron lowered is gaze to Kirien. "I made a damned promise to Nalani fool. Why don't you damned think about her before you go and rush to your damn death eh?"

Vuryal walks ever closer to the corpse. Pausing for a moment, the fiend begins to laugh at the thought of burying something as shriveled and decayed as this... alpha. "Mourn for an eternity, for that is how long you will burn in the void of nothing when I am finished with you, poppet. You and your bitches amongst your ranks."

Nemisis said to Ciya, "A lot has changed Ciya....a lot. Don't let smoke and mirrors fool you. And you thirteen....don't think our business is done."

Yasmine makes her way over to Athyaron and takes a hold of his arm, a silent demand for him to quiet.

Kirien's nails might have dug into Mahri some, his chest shuddering with barely contained breaths - or sobs, who knew. Another tremor rippled through the earth. He was trying to calm down, really.

Ordox sees an opportunity in his midst. He had observed plenty of the scene...Leo's voice, his movements, his appearance, in effect his style. Slowly backing away for just a moment, dipping into the wooded area, he returns as the recently defeated Leoxander. The lycan flesh returned anew, his wounds healed, his confident swagger restored. The dead man's eyes look up to Vuryal as he steps beside Mahri, the tricky shifter staring at his copied corpse.

Mahri grinds her teeth. Every muscle in her body wanted to leap at Vuryal, rip out his throat…something. "So long as you're with me, I don't care, Vuryal. One or both of us is dying and I'd prefer it just be you."

Ciya said to Nemisis, "We are the dark legion. Address us as so. There is no more Ciya.."

Araina placed a hand on either of the fox's shoulders, settling her cheek against his shoulder blades. It was a stop-gap measure, hoping to help the male calm. She opened herself, her empathy, projecting whatever comfort she had left for the male.

Eilyo stepped back from Athyaron and Yasmine, going into the shadows there. She watched the grief around her, ever silent, ever ignored. She wasn't needed here...Yet, for some reason she couldn't make herself walk away yet.

Mahri doesn't react to the faux-Leo. Simply because one can mimic appearance and mannerisms, but scent was a very unique thing.

Vuryal grins at Mahri's words, the syllables doing little more than tickling his fancy... ears. The fiend almost bursts into a laughing fit upon seeing the reanimated Leoxander amongst their midst. "Parlor tricks do little to impress me." Having said his piece for the night, the creature of time forgotten slips into the night, dissipating into the blackened mist that has become his calling card.

Nemisis said to Ciya, "Legion is it? We will get him back and you will find a new home."

Vuryal said to Derry, "Another night..."

Athyaron takes a deep breath as Yas takes a hold of his arm. This just...was too much. First Eilyo leaves him..now he had to watch the man that killed his brother get away with yet another murder. It wasn't right.

Ordox said to Mahri, "Perhaps I can be of service should a burial be required...for a price."

Derry just stands there, having chimed his piece and once more, passed over.. oh the lowly life of a pawn.

Araina said to Ordox, "We don't need or want your help. Pack will take care of their own."

Sabine had been in the shadows, watching the events unfold, not taking any side as she wished to remain neutral. Shaking her head and what had just transpired she slowly turned and walked away

Daath reappears in the same manner he left, right next to Thea.

Ordox said to Araina, "Without your Alpha? Doubtful."

Mahri said to Ordox, "Go find a place in hell and sit there. For a very long time."

Bella eyes up Vuryal warily and for once remains totally silent.

Daath said to Thea, "She rests, a bottle of liquor with her. I have placed my finest guards around her establishment with orders to not let any bother her for a while."

Ordox said to Mahri, "Maybe. Should I find it necessary."

Thea wonders if a burial will even be an option as she eyes Tiphareth.

Yasmine shifts from the Athyaron's side, and stands behind her sister. Her hand reaches out to brush over her shoulder, giving way to her standing behind both women speaking.

Mahri said, "We have an alpha." Using Kirien for leverage, Mahri gets to rather wobbly feet. Rather, her knees wobbled mostly. "Rhocielle will be Alpha now. He was beta under Leo and so he'll rise through the ranks."

Athyaron said to Ordox, "Piss off. We can handle ourselves. We don't need help from you."

Eilyo said to Ordox, "You'd be surprised how well this particular group can handle themselves."

Araina flicked the male a glance, refraining from offering that he had not been the only alpha, but he had been the best. Sighing, she decided to ignore him and asked the Beta, " Mah, make the order?"

Thea said to Daath, "Thank you. I will see to her on the morrow. She will no doubt be a bit dazed for some time after this."

Ranok || Johnny, the smaller of the two magical mechas, would thud up behind Ordox. And then pluck up the shifter with one massive metal hand. This would be done without little warning. Only the thuds of footsteps and the clack of gears as the arm reached out. And if that shifter was grabbed, he'd be shaken. Shaken while words boomed out from voice amplification, "Shut. Up."

Ordox passes a glance to the dead lycan, "Yes. I can see how well your leader handled himself..." The mocking smirk of Leo flashes to all.

Tiphareth appears once more from before, burning glares directed upon all present.

Lahk feels the familiar stutter-stop of the end of an era, and smiles faintly at the thought of tomorrow. He leaps from the rooftops and is gone, a half paw print of ash the only betrayal of his presence.

Daath said to Thea, "Very well. If I am needed, please summon me. I am sure you possess means of reaching me, no matter my location."

Mahri said to Araina, "Take him home."

Thea said to Daath, "Aye, again you have my thanks."

Nemisis finally stood back up tall. Seeing as how the threat has vanished. Hunter split back into two, dropping his energy back into the normally seen rates. Honor blew a puff of smoke and looked at Mahri once and then to Kirien, "Go bury him and pay your respects with a memorial....."

Kirien rose with Mahri, if only so as to make sure she didn't fall right back on top of him. The fox was silent again but anyone perceptive enough would feel the emotion radiating from him.

Ordox was not able to react in time to fend off the mechanical limb, his antics distracting him from the assault. Legs vigorously kick back and forth as Leo's body is lifted with ease. Though with the same ease it would seem, does the lycan body begin deflating, the skin and bones that would hold a skull in place, as if putty, melts and slides through Johnny's grasp. The shifter lands on the hard earth, his facial reconstruction already taking place, returning to perfect Leoxander features.

Araina nodded briskly, clenching her jaw momentarily before she stepped forward. She knelt by that broken, decayed body with a steely expression, easily lifting him. She cradled him carefully, despite the shape the male was in, emerald hues glistening though they did not fall. She'd turn to the others, issuing her own order, " He'll be taken to the den. Those who pay tribute can meet me there." No more were offered, the kelay Alpha already walking down the path, head held high despite the night's events. She would be proud for Leoxander.

Ranok || A giant metal foot follows immediately, slamming down onto the ground so hard that the flagstones would crack from the impact of it.

Athyaron turns his back on Kirien now, making his way back towards Yasmine and Araina...the two family he did have here. He would normally go to Eilyo as well..but yeah, mad at her and whatnot.

Yasmine follows her sister, making sure that Athyaron followed close behind her as well.

Eilyo watched Athyaron with a silent frown and sighs. The woman finally slips away, making her way home.

Tysinni watches the interplay happening around the mourners with a frown. The fake Leo was strange and disconcerting. She disliked it and was rather relieved when Ranok, in his contraption, stepped in.

Mahri is numb. And not just because she had tried to bring a dead man back to life. But because of who that dead body was. She'll be feeling it later. Those emotions she's trying to bury at the moment. Staring at Ordox, the lycan adds another scent to her list. A growing list t hat is topped by Vuryal. Mahri says to Kirien in a raspy voice, "Help me get to Sora.. " The beta will expect Araina to get whatever remains together for transportation to the island. And someone had to tell Arien.

Ordox 's eyes widen, now aware of the upheaval heading towards him. Though the fear of attack is quickly dissipated by it's lack of merit. As if tearing a sheet of paper in half does Ordox's newly acquired lycan form separate, a foot going in each direction and taking half of his body with him as he divides. Giving enough room to let the projectile earth pass by, a quick few hops bring the two pieces back together, the fluid shifter form melding back to whole, "Stop this nonsense..."

Nemisis looked towards Tiphareth, curious of exactly what brought his return

Mahri :: Sora lowers her sinewy neck with a croon towards the beta, the dragon's tail swaying snake like in her agitation. It may come very close to the newly built and warded Gallows.

Kirien did as he was told without protest, an arm winding about the beta's waist in order to support her weight a little better as he turned in the direction of where the dragon was still crouched a short ways along the street. Nameless sat nearby his larger, chillier kin with a strange expression in his eyes but Kirien did not bother to question it, intent on helping Mahri onto Sora's back so they could leave this damnable place and get back to their island. Gods, their island. If he needed to, if she couldn't climb herself, he'd help shove Mahri up onto the dragon. "Make sure she don't fall off," he said, though Sora would probably already know that.

Mahri had, yes, been ignoring the Pixie. Not quite sure how she'll handle the Queen of Enchantment if Mahri let herself notice her

Yasmine follows after Araina, helping her carry him east.

Thea was not necessarily concerned with Mahri anymore. She was more watching to see what the next move would be for a few.

Mahri did find her seat on Sora, just a little behind where shoulders and neck meet. It's a quiet beta that gives Sora a pat and that mental nudge to go home. Nameless would be left behind, dragon and rider wheeling their way upwards into the sky and, leaving the rest of the wing behind, setting course for Rynvale. At least her body would get as numb as the rest or her as Sora went higher til Mahri thought she'd pass out from lack of oxygen.

Ranok || Johnny follows up with a short charging sweep of his sword arm. The machine's legs take two steps, and the long length of the sword would do the rest. Only, the sword might carry a big more bite, carrying a blessing of the priest Lared. But then that would be all. Johnny would take a step back, and then raise the ballista. What could only be called a spear was set on it. The booming voice says again, "Go. Away." Ranok, in his own larger Doorknocker, remains silent. He was letting the soldier vent. Ordox just provided a good target for the younger soldier's rage.

Nemisis said to Kirien, "You will see us soon enough. For now we'll leave you to your mourning."

Ordox sighs as he is forced to react once more to the oncoming attack. His arm immediately reacts, sizzling and sliding into a long, slender blade. A parry is all that is required as Johnny makes his retreat, "I shall not. I have business to attend."

Tanya continues to keep her spot next to the tavern wall still glancing at individuals

Ordox makes his way over to Tiphareth, in case he was unaware, the shifter now possesses the form of a newly renewed and restored lycan that fell to him just moments earlier. A cocky grin traces the borrowed lips as his arm remorphs back into Leo's. "That was quite the display, earlier."

Kirien watched Sora take flight, bearing Mahri safely back to the east and their island. Shaky hands would reach and remove the onyx visor that, until now, had half-hidden the vampire's tear-stained face from view. He'd make no move to wipe them away, instead turning focus to Tiphareth. Blind or no, the lich's ominous aura was all he'd need to pinpoint that presence. Nothing was said to him however and Kirien shifted to hop onto Nameless' back, the wyvern preparing for the powerful leap that would take him skywards. And leap he did, bounding into the air with a spring of strong back legs and a beat of golden wings, and when they were high enough in the sky he'd be turning eastwards to the ocean.

The next day, back at refugee cove

Mahri made her way to the Cove. That one place she thought Arien might be. The bottles of rum she carried clanked in one hand. There is no reason for stealth now. And the beta wanted to be sure they knew someone was coming. Emerging from the tunnel, Mahri pauses and takes a look around, gathering all visual information she can and storing it. It is clear by the look on her face the rum is not to celebrate.

Arien was standing on the docks, with her eyes fixed on Eternity. The elf was still. As still as the grave, only the fluttering of the morning breeze lifting tendrils of flame about her cheeks. She was waiting. Waiting for him to come home. He'd promised.

Mahri wished Rho was here. Staring at Arien while the elf watched the Eternity, Mahri made her way over. No matter how the beta was feeling inside, it would be far worse for the General. Schooling her features into a careful mask that gives away nothing, Mahri says softly, "Arien?"

Arien answered with a single, quiet word. "No."

Mahri just stood there looking past the elf and to Leo's ship, warded and holding some very precious cargo. "Arien, look at me." The bottles will dangle forgotten from her fingers.

Vuryal shouted, "Consider this a mourning gift, puppies..."

Mahri ignores that shout. If she didn't...

Arien said to Mahri, "I don't need to see it in your eyes Mahri..I can hear it in your voice. The elf would keep her eyes fixed to that ship of a beat longer, however, and then turn slowly to rest the sheen of too bright gems on the silvery gaze of the beta wolf.

Mahri 's own eyes couldn't hide what she felt. Not now and not with Arien. "I'm sorry." It's all she can say. Her throat closed up tight then and wouldn't let more than a wheeze of breath through. Her face crumbled and she just shakes her head in the denial she wanted to indulge in. Any moment the rogue was going walk into the cove and get pissed at them for behaving like..women. Turning away a moment, the beta tries to compose herself. She half fails. At least she can talk anyway, even if her voice is strained. "He fought well. Tiphareth..." She draws in a deep breath and lets it out, that tenuous control back in place and the forgotten rum set on a crate nearby. "We can't break now. We'll have a memorial and then we'll plan."

Arien said to Mahri, "Can we..talk about this, later?" Arien's face was unreadable, a measure of denial almost, marked there. He'd promised. "Well talk.. I promise."

Mahri said to Arien, "I'm afraid not, Arien. The parasite planted a bomb that will go off in five days and destroy the city it's in. We don't have time. Later. Later we'll have time. I promise." For once, Mahri is offering a bit of comfort to the elf. Stepping closer to lay a hand lightly on Arien's arm, "I need you, Arien."

Arien tensed slightly under that touch, before relaxing. Five days. I'll give you five days. Whatever happens then..I think..I'm done Mahri. He was my world. I can't..do this without him. I can't be..where he was. See him in every shadow, every shape." The elf had poured her soul into this world, and into loving a rogue. If he was gone, she'd be going too. Hopefully she could walk out alive. Despite that ache to die..to be with him.

Mahri just. Stares at Arien. "Five days." But, somewhere in the back fo her mind she couldn't help wondering if the elf would survive. Then again..if something happened to Rho, would she be any less torn up?

Arien nodded quietly. Then we'll do what we can, to save what we can. If we fail, it is all the more reason, in my book, to take my leave. The garrison may be the most secure place to meet, and plan, or the Lair, if you prefer." The elf still had the calm, ear dead quality to her voice.

Mahri thought a moment then said, "How about the Illoria."

Mahri figured that was one place Arien likely hadn't seen Leo.

Arien said to Mahri, "Done." She flickered a look the lycan's way. "His..body..where is it?" The rogue, should be buried at sea. It was what he'd want.

Mahri said to Arien, "Good," then she'll lick her lips at the question, "At the den but Arien, you .. he.. his body isn't." How to put it, "Tiphareth did something and he looks like he's been dead a while. We'll bury him soon. At sea, of course."

Arien nodded. "Bind him. I don't want to see him like that.. " We’ll bury him off Illoria..”

There would be no more words then. Arien turned and walked away from the wolf, headed west along the beach toward the loneliness of Horseshoe Bay. There was that about her stride that suggested she might well not stop walking when she reached that shore line.